Rev. Shawn Garan, Senior minister

Shawn leads Sunday services and ministers to the needs of the church body.

Rev. Shawn Garan brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role as the Senior Pastor. He holds a Master's of Divinity degree with a specialization in theology and missions from Alliance Theological Seminary, showcasing his dedication to deepening his understanding of faith and spreading the message of God's love.
In addition to his theological education, Shawn is currently in his fourth year as a resident psychoanalyst at the Blanton Peale Institute in NYC. This unique background allows him to provide valuable insights and support to individuals on their spiritual and emotional journeys.
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Shawn and his wife, Ashley, have been happily married since 2009. They relocated to Southbury in 2022 with their three children: Molly (13), Max (13), and Abram (3). A long-suffering Mets fan and a dedicated family man, Shawn cherishes spending time with his kids, whether it's enjoying e-bike adventures or simply exploring the beautiful UCCS campus while immersed in his favorite books.

Rev. Shawn Garan is not only a devoted servant of God but a compassionate leader who deeply values the well-being of his congregation and community.

Learn more about Shawn on his website, shawngaran.com.

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Theo Camara, director of youth & family ministries

Theo has a heart and mind for ministry with younger generations. He holds his undergraduate degree in youth ministry and has worked with youth/children in various church and non-profit settings for nearly a decade. On Sunday mornings and elsewhere, you can usually find Theo in and among the youth, living life beside them as they navigate the world. 

Beyond ministry, Theo also enjoys academics. He is almost finished with his Master of Divinity degree from Northeastern Seminary, with a specialization in advanced biblical studies. Theo regularly presents at conferences on the topics of pop culture, climate change, and the “exvangelical” movement. He hopes to pursue a PhD in religion.
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More importantly, Theo loves his family. He married his college sweetheart, Victoria, in 2019. They had their daughter, Ahava, in 2021. Outside of church and school, Theo enjoys the Red Sox, spending time in the water, or playing board games with family and friends. You will typically see Theo with a coffee in his hand and a hat upon his head. He is excited to be here at UCC Southbury!

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Donald Wismann, Music Director

Donald joined the UCC Southbury team in 2023 as the Director of Music. With a strong background in organ and voice, he studied at Kean University in Union, NJ.

Passionate about enhancing worship through music, Don brings over 30 years of experience in music ministry. His expertise not only enriches the overall worship experience but also fosters a deep connection between the congregation and sacred music.

​In addition to his role at UCC Southbury, he hosts "Saturday Morning Classics" on WMNR Fine Arts Radio, sharing his love for classical music with a wider audience.

Donald resides in Southbury, CT, with his wife and two sons.

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Bonnie Havery, Bell Choir Director

Carla Preiman, Office Manager

Kelly Fressola, Preschool Director

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Congregational leadership

Craig Perry, Immediate past President

Pam Yost, President

Rob hesketh, Vice President

​Lay leadership is a pivotal force driving the operations of our church, ensuring its effective functioning and guiding its future direction. At the heart of this leadership structure is the Church Council, which serves as a driving force for implementing policies, making important financial decisions, and formulating strategic plans.

Comprised of dedicated individuals, the Council brings together the Officers of the church, representatives from various Boards, and our esteemed Pastors. This diverse and collaborative team embodies the collective wisdom and insights of our church community.

Leading the Council is the President, whose pivotal role spans a three-year term. To ensure a seamless transition of responsibilities and effective leadership, the President initially serves as the Vice President, familiarizing themselves with the intricacies of the position. Then, they assume the role of the President, guiding the Council through its crucial decision-making processes and inspiring the community with their vision. Finally, as the Immediate Past President, they continue to contribute their valuable experience by mentoring their successor.
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Through this well-defined structure, our lay leaders cultivate an environment of shared responsibility and collaborative decision-making. This approach ensures continuity, expertise, and a steady hand in guiding our church towards a future of growth and spiritual flourishing.
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We are incredibly grateful for the commitment and dedication of our lay leaders, whose unwavering service fosters a strong and vibrant community. Their selfless contributions shape the destiny of our church, allowing us to fulfill our mission and make a lasting impact in the lives of our members and beyond.