Our Staff
Our Staff
Carin Bringelson (she/hers)
Minister
Office Hours: Usually 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
Or by appointment.
You can also talk to Rev. Carin on Sundays or send her a message.
About Rev. Carin
Rev. Carin Bringelson began serving Peoples Church Unitarian Universalist Church in August 2023.
A Unitarian Universalist for over 30 years, she earned her Masters of Divinity from Meadville Lombard Theological School in 2020. Prior to that she earned degrees in Sociology, African American Studies, Educational Policy Studies, and Library & Information Studies—working for most of her previous career as a librarian.
When she’s not reading a good book, Carin enjoys bike-riding, promoting intellectual freedom, cooking, co-creating racial justice, singing, and collaging. She and her wife Bev live in Cedar Rapids.
David Kind (he/him)
Congregational Administrator
Office Hours:
Tuesday, 9:00-3:00
Wednesday, 9:00-4:00
Thursday, 9:00-4:00
You can also email him at office@peoplesuu.org.
About David
David Kind grew up near Seattle where he worked for Starbucks supporting ethical sourcing and accessibility initiatives at their headquarters. He then spent a decade in Vancouver, BC where he earned a bachelor’s degree with honours in psychology at the University of British Columbia. Now in Iowa, in addition to being the Peoples Church Congregational Administrator, he teaches French, Spanish, and Suzuki piano.
Bridget Laflin (she/her)
Interim Director of Faith Formation
Office Hours:
Tuesday, 9:00-2:00
Thursday, 9:00-2:00
And by appointment
You can also email her at faithformation@peoplesuu.org.
About Bridget
Bridget has had the joy of serving in Unitarian Universalist religious education (Faith Formation) for many years, most recently as the Director of Lifespan Religious Education at First UU Church of San Antonio (2022–2024), and previously at Woodinville UU Church in Washington. She recently completed a ministerial internship at the UU Society of Iowa City. Her background includes a Master of Divinity from Seattle University, along with extensive hands-on experience in worship, teaching, multigenerational programming, and supporting families through life’s many transitions. Throughout her work, Bridget has been consistently drawn to spaces where children and youth are encouraged to show up as their full, curious, and creative selves. She believes Faith Formation should be grounded, inclusive, joyful, and rooted in real-life questions—supported by a loving community that helps each person discover their own spiritual path. With over 20 years of experience teaching and performing improv comedy, Bridget also brings a deep appreciation for imagination, collaboration, and joy in UU spaces.
Rishi Wagle (he/him)
Accompanist
About Rishi
Rishi Wagle (he/him) is a musician, educator, and theatre-maker based in Eastern Iowa. Originally from the Quad Cities, Rishi began studying music at a very young age, eventually gaining skills as a pianist, violinist, and singer. He then went on to get a music degree from Brown University and a Masters in Music Education from the University of Iowa. Currently, he serves as one of the choir directors at Cedar Rapids Washington High School. Outside of teaching, he sings with and serves on the board for Vocal Artists of Iowa, works on various local theatre productions, and plays violin with the Muscatine Symphony Orchestra.
Matthew Wilde
Internet Outreach Technician
About Matthew
Matthew Wilde is a born and raised Cedar Rapidian. He grew up in the Methodist Church as a young person, attending Shueyville United Methodist Church until high school. He has a deep and varied interest and respect for religion and spirituality — and the Community that faiths of all kinds provide. Matt believes that no matter one’s beliefs, we are all part of this great human experiment, and we should try our best to be there for each while we are here.
Matt attended the University of Northern Iowa graduating with a BA in Electronic Media. He has worked many jobs in local news and marketing — and is now working on finding his next career path and is open to where that leads him. Matt is married to his wife Erin and has three kids — Lucy, Molly, and Henry. In his free time, Matt enjoys taking his three dogs on walks, reading, and listening to podcasts.
Brittany Youngbear
Custodian
About Brittany
Brittany Youngbear grew up just outside Cedar Rapids on the Meskwaki Settlement where she enjoys spending time with her extended family—when she’s not keeping up with her five kids. She is a passionate cook and amateur photographer who enjoys taking in local art and riding her bike. She’s thrilled to be part of Peoples Church’s team and can’t wait to meet everyone in the congregation.