Gospel of Jesus Christ binds the people of First Congregational Church. This church is a beacon of faith and community. It began with nine townspeople in 1840. They formally became a church in 1914.
First Congregational United Church of Christ welcomes everyone. No matter who you are, you are welcome here. It is a teaching, mission-minded, and ecumenical church. It is open and affirming. The church gives everyone a place to worship. People can learn here. They can serve in the community and the world.
This church shares a commitment to service. They create face-to-face missions. These missions involve people from diverse backgrounds. First Congregational Church seeks ways to be generous. It helps members use their gifts in mission work. Since 1991, the church has provided a Free Community Thanksgiving Meal.
First Congregational is part of the United Church of Christ. This is a Protestant denomination. It formed in 1957. It was a union of Congregational Christian Churches and the Evangelical and Reformed Church. The beliefs are diverse. These beliefs form the core of their faith.
The church believes in the gracious love of God. This God is the Creating, Revealing, and Empowering God. They know this God as the Trinity of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. They witness the risen Christ. Jesus of Nazareth is the head of the Church. He calls people to discipleship and service.
First Congregational affirms historic Christian creeds. But they believe testimonies should not be tests. Each generation must create authentic faith. This faith is based on scripture and reason. It considers Christian history, tradition, and personal experience.
They understand the Bible as testimonies. These are from Jewish and early Christian communities. These communities responded to encounters with God. The Bible contains truths. They are both time-bound and timeless. They study and interpret these texts. They seek to hear the Word of God.
Belonging to a faith community is necessary. It is necessary to any Christian life. First Congregational strives to create a safe church. This church embraces diversity. Their motto is clear. No matter who you are, you are welcome here.
The members strongly desire to be a missional church. They seek to further God’s Reign on earth. They do this through service and charity. They work for justice and peace. Their mission statement reflects this. They share the Gospel. They nurture and support each other. They show concern for humankind.
First Congregational welcomes everyone into God’s family. They offer love and acceptance. Diversity enriches their lives. It gives them chances to learn from each other. Following Jesus’ example, they care for one another. They work together in the community. They help those in need. They seek peace and justice.
The church encourages curiosity. They support each other on their faith journey. Questioning and curious minds are welcome. They support diversity. This includes relationships, family structure, ethnicity, and ability. They offer opportunities for generations to connect.
First Congregational Church believes each person is unique. Each is valuable. God wants everyone to belong to a family of faith. Here, they feel valued and loved. All people of faith are welcome. All can join Christ at Christ’s table for Communion. They remember Christ’s sacrifice. They celebrate Christ’s presence among them.
So step inside First Congregational Church. Become part of a community. Share the love. Experience the Gospel. Understand the teachings. No matter where you are, you are welcome.