We are part of the national body of the United Church of Christ, and also have independence in how our local church works. For example, we own our own building, call our own pastor, and determine our church governance. Our governing body, the Council of Ministries, includes our pastor, a moderator, a treasurer, a secretary, the chairs of our six core ministries, and a member-at-large.

The Council meets monthly to set goals and priorities, and implement actions to ensure our goals and priorities are met. Representatives of other groups within our church and individual church members are welcome to attend and participate in Council meetings. Our six core ministries include:

Forming, developing, and engaging in one’s faith is a lifelong exploration. For children, the ministry selects the curriculum and recruits teachers to lead Sunday school classes. For youth groups, the ministry plans get-togethers and activities that are both faith-filled and fun. And for adults, we offer short-term and ongoing educational programs.

Community Life extends a warm invitation to those who share our passion for building community and nurturing relationships. The ministry organizes and hosts coffee hours and receptions, and a variety of social events such as potlucks, lunches and dinners out, small groups, book clubs, and social outings. The Caring Team assists with food, rides, companionship, and other needs whenever a request is received. The Prayer Team prays for God’s guidance for those facing difficult times. Community Life also welcomes new members and assists them in stepping into the life of the church community.

This ministry encourages members to share not only their financial resources, but their time and talents as well. Active year-round, Stewardship shares financial needs and goals with the congregation through presentations and mailings, conducts the annual pledge campaign, coordinates people to give testimonials, and highlights the giving of time and talent in our bulletin and newsletter.

Seeking to address social needs and spread Christ’s radical message of love and justice, the work of this ministry is felt here at home and around the world. The ministry leads the congregation in activities that currently include or have included: environmental action; food, clothing, and holiday gift drives; Naperville Pride Fest; The Ronald McDonald House; DuPagePads; Illinois assault weapons ban; supporting refugee families  in conjunction with World Relief; and monetary and hands-on support of our partner congregation in Angola.

This group is responsible for our building and grounds, personnel policies, and financial management. Providing guidance in maintaining our church home, both financially and physically, they manage investments and endowments and oversee projects large and small. The trustees work closely with the church council and administrative staff to ensure the business of the church runs smoothly.

The Worship Ministry plays a vital role in helping to fulfill the part of our church’s vision, which states that we will hold worship services that “refresh us, engage us, and enable us to go out into the world to do God’s work while serving others.” The group coordinates all aspects of the worship service, including greeters, liturgists and scripture readers, the sound and video streaming teams, sanctuary preparation, decorations, communion, music, and special events.