Welcome from the Pastor…
Hello, and welcome to our website! I’m glad you have taken the opportunity to get to know us through all the information you will find here. Of course, the best way to get to know us is to come and worship with us. When you do, you will find a “small, but mighty” congregation of truly welcoming people. Yes, I know, almost all churches say they are friendly and welcoming, but proof of our commitment to offer the radical hospitality of Jesus Christ is evidenced by our current engagement in the process to become an official Open and Affirming congregation of the United Church of Christ. Simply put, we “embrace all God’s children,” regardless of age, race, economic status, educational level, marital status, sexual orientation and physical and mental abilities. No matter who you are, no matter where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here!
I am now in my fifteenth year as pastor here at First Congregational. My ministry is rooted in scripture, church tradition (I grew up in the United Church of Christ), my education at Eden Theological Seminary, and especially in the multitude of experiences I have had throughout mylife. Growing up in a male-dominated household (I have five brothers) and culture, marrying young and being widowed early, struggling to survive as a single parent, and being called into the ordained ministry at 43, significantly impacted who I am as a pastor. Like you, I know how cruel and lonely life can be at times and what it means to question one’s faith. That’s why I’ve dedicated my life to sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ. It’s just like my favorite song says, “I want the world to know, the Lord of love has come to me, I’ve got to pass it on!”
While that might sound terribly serious, I assure you there are many light-hearted moments in my down-to-earth preaching as I try to relate the meaning of scripture to our everyday lives. Ours is a casual, relaxed atmosphere where you are free to dress as you please and are always welcome to join us for a time of refresments and conversation after the worship service.
The rest of the pages on this site will tell you about our mission outreach and social activities. After you are done reading all about us here on the website, I hope you will take the next step in getting to know us and renewing your relationship with Jesus Christ – come worship with us!