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"Our church strives to be a true spiritual community—a place where we can grow to full potential in an atmosphere of caring, and share what we discover with the wider community and the world."—Michael Brown

Rev. Michael Brown, Minister

Rev. Michael W. Brown—known around the church simply as "Michael"—has served as minister of our congregation since 1991. In addition to leading worship services and providing pastoral care, he is involved in many facets of church life and is active in the community.

Michael's areas of religious interest include Bible study, depth psychology, dream work, process theology, science and religion, Eastern religions, social justice issues, and spiritual practices. He is also deeply committed to promoting interfaith dialogue.

Before entering the ministry, Michael pursued a career in data processing and education. He's a "pretty good" pool player and enjoys singing in the choir and playing the banjo. He is also a lifelong Cubs fan—a fact that occasionally slips out in a sermon. Michael and Diane Fuller Brown have been married since 1979 and have two grown sons.

Feel free to contact Michael if you have questions about the church or just want to talk. It's helpful to call ahead if you want to visit, but drop-ins are welcome. Michael promises "answers guaranteed, or double your questions back!"

Education

  • Master of Divinity, Meadville/Lombard Theological School, 1991
  • MBA in information systems, Keller Graduate School of Management, 1983
  • Bachelor of Science in computer science, University of Western Ontario, 1975

Community Involvement

  • Co-founder, Central Illinois Chapter of the Interfaith Alliance
  • Serves on the Central Illinois Workforce Development Board and was the first chairperson of its Youth Council
  • Helped create the YES (Youth Employment for Summer) job program for area youth

Awards and Achievements

  • Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Service Leadership Award (King Holiday Committee of Peoria), 2002
  • Faith and Freedom Award (Central Illinois Chapter of the Interfaith Alliance), 2001
  • Attended Parliament of the World's Religions in Barcelona, Spain (2004); Cape Town, South Africa (1999); and Chicago, Illinois (1993)
  • Author of Invitations to the Dance: Sermons that Celebrate Life

Read one of Michael's sermons.