Staff
Rev. Craig Blaufuss
I was called to serve First Congregational UCC in October of 2010, and over the years our shared ministry here has been filled with joy, good works, a variety of challenges, and much love! I am a native of Burlington, Iowa, and I received by B.A. in Religion and Philosophy from Iowa Wesleyan College (1981). After 2 decades of factory work I went back to school to earn my Masters of Divinity degree from Eden Theological Seminary, beginning in 2001. I was ordained in my home church, St. Luke United Church of Christ, in 2004, and I previously served as the pastor of Zion UCC in Troy, Missouri. I have been married to my wife Vicki for 41 years. We have 4 children, 7 grandchildren, 4 dogs and 2 cats.
Michele Omvig
I have been the administrative assistant of First Congregational since April of 2012. I live in Stratford, Iowa with my husband. I received a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Northwestern University, and my favorite hobby is trying new recipes.
Curt McCoskey
In December of 2000 I was approached by a couple members of the Trustees wondering if I would be interested in being the janitor of the church. Our son was attending Buena Vista University and I thought this would be a good way to help with college expenses. I agreed to be janitor for two or three years, starting in January 2001. Here it is some 23 years later! Our son has long since graduated, his school loans are paid off– and I’m still doing the janitorial job.
I’m a lifelong member of this church, having participated in all the normal activities as a youth. As an adult I have taught Sunday school, been a youth fellowship leader, been on several boards and committees and have been active in several other activities. I’m currently on the Worship Board and also the Vice Moderator of the church. I enjoy my job as janitor, and hopefully I’ll be able to continue for a few more years. Who knows? Maybe I’ll go back to college and I will need the extra income!
Melissa Hindt
My name is Melissa Hindt and I am filled with joy by being a part of the music ministry here at First Congregational United Church of Christ. I began playing the piano and sometimes the organ for services in the summer of 2015. And from the very beginning of my time here the people of this church have opened their hearts to me and my family. Through their kind words, generous deeds and tender compassion our lives have been enriched. My husband and I have four children, two are in college, one in high school and one in elementary. Our hope and prayer for our children is that they find faith communities that will love them and guide them close to Jesus. We have been blessed to have found that here at FCUCC.