About Us

Who We Are

Greetings, and welcome to the website of the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin. We’re so glad you found us online. We are indeed a family, bound together by our faith and committed to living out the gospel of Christ in tangible ways… here at First Congregational UCC, we don’t just talk about our faith—we put it into action. As you explore the information on this site, you will discover some of the ways we have served and are serving our community. We believe you will discover a supportive church family that can help you respond to Christ’s command to “Love one another, as I have loved you.” It is our sincere hope that you will feel inspired and that you will come to visit us in person. To learn even more, please contact Pastor Sara via the Church office at 920-563-4802 or by email at officefortucc@gmail.com.

Mission Statement

Founded in scripture and led by the Holy Spirit, our mission is to be a Christ-centered family of faith. Through worship, prayer, study, fellowship and outreach we seek to be a loving congregation committed to spiritual nourishment and growth. Empowered by God’s grace, we extend an invitation to all to join us in serving the local and worldwide community.

(adopted February 4, 2001)

History

The First Congregational United Church of Christ was founded in October 1841. After meeting in a log cabin and later in a schoolhouse, the first church structure was built in 1850 on the southeast corner of W. Milwaukee Avenue and Janesville Avenue, two blocks west of our current location. The congregation soon outgrew that building, and our second church was completed in March of 1866 on the corner of W. Milwaukee Avenue and Grant Street – our current location. A tragic fire destroyed the wooden frame church in October of 1942. Rebuilding began in 1946, with the Congregational Meeting House, now our Plymouth Hall. The new sanctuary was built and dedicated in October of 1954. The bell, rescued from the fire, now hangs in the tower. Building for Christ was a renewal project that was completed in 2000. Our church has been served by over 35 ministers since 1841

Meet our staff

Rev. Dr. Sara Rabe, Pastor

Pastor Sara began serving our church on June 1, 2021, and after a unanimous vote by the congregation, has been warmly welcomed as our settled pastor. Pastor Sara has been ordained for over 20 years and brings a wealth of leadership experience and organizational development expertise to her role.

Henry Harrell, Office Coordinator

Henry Harrell joined our staff in February 2024. A friendly voice and a kind smile greet you with every encounter. Henry’s background is in agriculture, communications and music.

Marvin Olsen, Director of Music

Marv is known as “Mr. Music” in the Fort Atkinson area, having taught music in the local school system for over thirty years. He directs the Senior Choir and Chapel Bells.

Church Organist and Pianist

Get Bios from our pianist

Robert (Charlie) Knapp, Financial Secretary

A long time member of the Congregation, Charlie attends to several functions of the Church, including posting of contributions, providing assistance to the Stewardship Campaign, and annual reporting of pledge giving by the Congregation.

Nancy Onufer, Clerk

A long time member of the Congregation, Nancy attends to several functions of the Church, including Baptisms, New Members, Transfers and Death as well as other responsibilities related to the Annual Report and Church Council.

Kim Lutes, Treasurer

Kim Lutes keeps a skilled eye on all church funds and expenditures and keeps the business side of our organization running smoothly.

Heidi Yngsdal, Director Fort Atkinson Preschool and Childcare (FAPC)

Fort Atkinson Preschool and Childcare has achieved the highest rating- 5 Stars- by YoungStar Wisconsin.