Meet Our Staff
Rev. Danielle K. Bartz
Senior Pastor
Pastor Danielle started as Senior Pastor at First Congregational in September 2018. Originally from Rochester, MN, she began her ministry as a hospital chaplain in central Maine before joining the staff of the United Church of Christ’s Council for Health and Human Service Ministries. A part of the UCC since she was 10 years old, Pastor Danielle’s life and service to God have led her to pastor the wonderful community of First Congregational.
Ganga Harris
Administrative Assistant
Ganga joined the church staff as part time administrative assistant in spring 2018. She brought with her a great deal of experience in running small businesses and streamlining tasks to make work more efficient. In addition to her business training, Ganga is a professionally trained chef and periodically adds those skills to her work.
Sandy Todd
Organist
Sandy began attending First Congregational when she was a student at Winona State University. She perfected her organ playing skills on our gorgeous instrument and continues to provide beautiful music at our Sunday morning worship services.
Nick Edstrom
Senior Choir Director
Nick grew up at First Congregational and has been an integral part of the music ministry at the church his entire life. He took over as one of the Senior Choir directors several years ago and has helped expand the choir’s musical abilities to include singing several jazz pieces.
Linda Knecht
Senior Choir Director
Linda has a profound love of music and directing and helps the Senior Choir come alive. She leads with ease, good humor, and just enough strictness to make sure everyone knows their parts and bring glory to God with their sung voices.
Nancy Bachler
Junior Choir Director
Nancy grew up at First Congregational church and began directing the Junior Choir nearly 20 years ago. She helps the young singers find confidence in their voices and leadership skills. Each time the she leads the Junior Choir in Sunday worship the sanctuary is filled with the sound of God.
