You Are Welcome Here.
No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey –
you are welcome here at First Congregational United Church of Christ.
Who we are
Open and Affirming
We welcome persons of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions.
Accessible to All
We are committed to be physically and attitudinally welcoming of people with disabilities.
Committed to Social Justice
We are called to acts of witness, compassion, and empowerment to ensure justice for all.
Advent Vespers
Join us for Advent Vespers in the Iona Community tradition. Lead by those who recently made the pilgrimage to the Iona Abbey in Scotland, these services will reflect the community’s deep commitment to simplicity, inclusivity, and contemplative worship. Rooted in the ancient Christian practice of evening prayer, Iona Vespers blends Celtic spirituality, ecological awareness, and social justice themes with traditional liturgy.
A time of visiting will follow with cookies and tea in the Hearth Room.
Madison Bach Musicians Holiday Concert
Saturday, December 13 | 2:15 p.m. lecture/3 p.m. concert | Sanctuary
We are pleased to welcome back Madison Bach Musicians for their 15th Annual Holiday Concert. The group will collaborate with Evanston’s celebrated Bella Voce vocal ensemble. This year, six Baroque composers will guide you through the Christmas season in Italy, France, Germany, and England.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit madisonbachmusicians.org.
The Inn: Sheltering the Holy
This year, it seemed appropriate to address how many of our Holy siblings struggle to find shelter, just as the Holy family did. Many of God’s children struggle to provide housing, food, and safety for their families. People have been furloughed or fired from jobs. Many of our immigrant siblings live in fear, rather than being welcomed and embraced. During this Advent season, what is the role of the church in providing hope, peace, joy, and love to ALL of God’s children?
Solar for Justice Community Grants
First Congregational UCC installed a large solar array on the roof that provides about 65% of the electricity for church activities. The solar energy project grew from Congregational discussions around justice and caring for creation. The conversations focused on environmental justice, recognizing that environmental harm, and the benefits from many environmental programs, are not distributed equitably.
The solar panels reduce the Church’s carbon footprint and save on utility costs. We are pleased to share that the yearly savings are being distributed to the community in the form of Solar for Justice grants. Learn more.