Nathan Dannison

Nathan Dannison currently serves as the 29th Senior Minister of the First Congregational Church of Kalamazoo, Michigan.

He is a graduate of the Chicago Theological Seminary and an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

During his tenure in Kalamazoo the congregation he serves has undergone a renaissance of reinvestment in the life of its community.  Declaring itself as the “living heart of the city,” the congregation has opened its campus to over 100 different agencies, justice organizations, and arts and cultural ensembles completely free of cost or expectation.  Their practice of embracing radical hospitality and a posture of hope has sparked rapid growth and attendance and a new sense of Christian purpose among the members.

The church has publicly declared itself an Environmental Justice Congregation, an Immigrant Welcoming Congregation and Public Sanctuary Church, and led the movement to celebrate full marriage equality with numerous public events.  The church affirms and celebrates the role of women, LGBTQ individuals, individuals with disabilities, and other historically marginalized populations at every level of church staff and leadership.  Following the terrible mass-shooting that took place in February of 2016 the church was asked to host the civic vigil and call to action.  The church campus was then designated a “gun free zone.”

First Congregational Church has renewed the historic congregational practices of hosting town hall meetings, protests, and public lectures.

During his tenure the congregation has grown to nearly 600 in active membership, added two additional worship services, and has been blessed by a renewed spirit of philanthropy, both through the tithes and offerings of the membership and vital investments by local, secular foundations.

Nathan serves on several local boards and committees and is an adviser for church renewal and planting throughout Michigan.  In 2017 he was honored to receive the Chicago Theological Seminary’s Distinguished Alumni award.