Our Music
At First Congregational, you’ll find a church that embraces you as you are—with your questions, your hopes, your doubts, and your dreams. We are an open and affirming congregation shaped by the inclusive love of Jesus and committed to walking together through all seasons of life.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning after time away, we want you to feel at home. Our worship is both rooted in tradition and alive with creativity. Our community life is grounded in relationships, spiritual growth, justice work, and joyful service. We honor the sacred worth of every person and believe that God is still speaking—inviting us into deeper love, wider welcome, and courageous faith.
The Chancel Choir
Our Chancel Choir is open to all who have a love for singing. Our rehearsals meet once a week and we perform most Sundays from September through May.
Our summer rehearsals are dedicated toward refining our vocal technique and preparing new music for Fall and Winter seasons.
Berghaus Organ
First Congregational presents a unique hybrid organ. Completely programmable through MIDI, this organ makes wonderful music…even when no one is playing it! Built in 2000 under the guidance of Jim Winfield, this organ has a rich, warm, and powerful sound.
An organ committee was formed in 1996 to overhaul the existing organ and replacing our old pipes with new ones – 1,825 pipes and 20 chimes are currently located in the chamber behind the wall. The organ was completed in 2000 and a recital was performed by Stephen Alltop in 2002 to commemorate the organ project’s completion.
Meg McGarry, Director Of Music
music@elmhurstucc.org
Meg McGarry (she/her/they) is a lifelong musician, performer, and arts educator with roots in rural Wisconsin. A vocalist, pianist, and theater director, Meg has performed everywhere from Lambeau Field to the Sandwich Opera House, and currently teaches at the Paramount School of the Arts. With over 15 years of music ministry experience in UCC churches, she brings deep joy and passion to her role as Music Director. Meg lives in Plano with her family (and a few furry friends) and is grateful to serve and grow with this vibrant faith community.