About Us
Beginning History
All Nations Indian Church, United Church of Christ (UCC) in Minneapolis, boasts a rich history dating back to 1987 when its doors first opened under the leadership of Gathering Pastor Rev. Harry C. Stroessner. This church is renowned for its unwavering dedication to Indigenous communities, catering to their spiritual needs and cultural preservation.
Welcome to All Nations Indian Church! Located in South Minneapolis, we are a warm and friendly congregation proudly serving the American Indian community and all who wish to join us. For years, All Nations Indian Church has been a vital place of worship, community service, and cultural preservation for Native Americans in Minneapolis. We offer traditional worship services, educational opportunities, and outreach initiatives that address the social and spiritual needs of Indigenous people and our community. Join us every Sunday for coffee hour at 10 AM and worship at 11 AM. We also maintain a unique interdenominational partnership with the United Church of Christ (UCC) and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), enhancing our mission and outreach efforts. Mitákuye Oyás’iŋ (We are all related)—everyone is welcome!
Rev. Harry C. Stroessner
Harry dedicated his life to serving as a pastor within the United Church of Christ. He ministered to congregations in Maple Lake, Fairmont, Bloomington, and Minneapolis. As the gathering pastor of All Nations Indian Church, he played a pivotal role in establishing ANIC as the first urban Indian congregation by the UCC. Early in his career, Harry served as a student pastor at a Methodist church in New Holstein, WI, and even in retirement, he continued his ministry with Presbyterian congregations in Babbitt and Ely. Harry's profound impact on many lives is a testament to his grace and dignity.
Rev. Marlene Whiterabbit Helgemo (HoChunk Nation)
Marlene served as the pastor of All Nations Indian Church in Minneapolis from 1992 until her passing in 2022. Rev. Helgemo was renowned for her dedication to Indigenous communities, advocating for justice and healing through her roles in various organizations, including the Council for American Indian Ministry (CAIM) and the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition. Her legacy of grace, advocacy,
and leadership continues to inspire many .
Rev. Joan Conroy (Oglala Lakota)
Rev. Joan Conroy is the esteemed Senior Pastor of All Nations Indian Church. With a rich history of service within both the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and the Episcopal Church, Rev. Conroy brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her role. Her ministry has been characterized by a deep commitment to Indigenous communities, advocating for their spiritual and social needs. As she leads All Nations Indian Church, Rev. Conroy continues to build on the legacy of her predecessors, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
Dr. Kelly Sherman-Conroy (Oglala Lakota)
Dr. Kelly Sherman-Conroy, a proud member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe, is the Associate Pastor at All Nations Indian Church. As the first Native woman to earn a PhD in theology within the ELCA, she uniquely combines Indigenous spirituality and Christian teachings to foster healing and reconciliation.
Kelly also teaches at Augsburg University and St. Olaf College, where she focuses on social justice, spirituality, and racial reparations. A respected speaker and leader, she continues to inspire others through her work on healing, justice, and community building.
