Kaneland Connection: Congregational Church of Elburn gets new pastor

McNeal started in his role Sept. 17, replacing interim pastor Michelle Prentice-Leslie. McNeal, 66, comes to the church after spending nearly 11 years at St. John’s United Church of Christ in Lyons.

Community Congregational Church of Elburn is at 100 E. Shannon St.

“This is a church that, while it’s not a large church, has a long history,” McNeal said. “It has an orientation towards a mission. And they wanted me to come.”

The church has its Sunday worship service at 9:30 a.m., and McNeal said about 50 attend each week. He said there are more who are active in the church, and there is room to grow.

“I think Elburn is a very nice community,” McNeal said. “And I think with some of the developments, I certainly would hope that the church will be part of the growth.”

He describes his style as “inclusive.” He said that’s a good fit for a Congregational church, where members are involved and “don’t expect the pastor to run everything.” He said it is a cooperative environment.

“I want to encourage all those who want to be involved and who might seek to hear the good news, people of all ages and backgrounds,” McNeal said. “We would welcome them. And furthermore, my style is very participatory.”

The church’s location is near the heart of Elburn’s downtown area, and its parking lot was the center of discussion this year. Village officials were considering purchasing the parking lot, and McNeal said church leaders “are continuing to go through a discernment process in regard” to the lot. The church had allowed the lot to be used for public parking for years.

He anticipates being part of its future. At 66 years old, he said he expects to be at the church for a long time.

“I have no interest or intention of retiring anytime soon,” he said. “I’m hoping this will be a ministry where I will be for quite some time.”