Central Lutheran Church - Elk River

Established in 1948, Central Lutheran Church has been a beacon of faith and community in Elk River, Minnesota, for more than seven decades. Led by our dedicated Lead Pastor, Ryan Braley, we are a congregation deeply rooted in family values and intergenerational connection.

Central Lutheran Church offers two services every Sunday at 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM, welcoming individuals and families of all ages to join us in worship and fellowship. Our services and activities are thoughtfully designed to engage, inspire, and strengthen the spiritual growth of each member of our church family, from the youngest to the eldest.

We pride ourselves on being a family-centered and family-focused church. Our intergenerational approach allows us to embrace and celebrate the rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives within our congregation, fostering a vibrant and supportive community.

Beyond the church walls, Central Lutheran Church is deeply committed to serving and uplifting the wider Elk River community. Our active involvement in local initiatives reflects our core belief in the power of faith in action, as we strive to put Christian love and compassion into practice.

At Central Lutheran Church, we don’t just attend church – we are the church. Join us as we continue to nurture faith, celebrate family, and serve our community, hand in hand.

Contributors

Host

Ryan Braley

Ryan grew up in Denver, Colorado and still misses the mountains some days. But Minnesota is now home for him and his wife Katie, and their four kids Logan, Gavin, Addison, and Scarlett (and their dog, Gus). Ryan’s parents were divorced when he was eight years old, and his mom would bring him and his sister to the local church because she didn’t know what else to do. It was there that Ryan was first captivated by Jesus and the idea of following him.

Out of high school Ryan spent several years with Youth With A Mission (YWAM), Denver where he met his wife and they traveled all around the world on short-term mission trips. After leaving YWAM, Ryan and Katie moved to Minnesota and Ryan attended Bethel University where he studied Christian Ministry. He would later go on to seminary at Bethel, acquiring a Master’s degree in Christian Thought. He is currently working towards a Doctor of Ministry with Fuller.