Worship

The heart of the church is its worship.  At First Congregational, we gather at 10 am on Sunday morning to celebrate our faith in worship.  While the structure of the service is pretty traditional, expect to find a blend of musical styles, exciting choral arrangements, and preaching that is both Biblical and up-to-date.

Preaching

It is usually Rev. Phil Hobson in the pulpit, although Rev. Tom Jones also preaches.  Several times a year we have the joy of laity or youth Sunday.  We occasionally use drama to express the Good News. 

Music

As St. Augustine said, "those who sing, pray twice."  We are blessed to have a senior choir and remarkable insturmental music in worship every Sunday, as well as occasional music offered by our handbell choir, youth choir and a newly formed women's choir.  In addition, musical elements are a big part of all of our worship. 

Sacraments

The United Church of Christ recognizes two sacraments: Baptism and Holy Communion.

We baptize both infants and adults, and recognize the validity of all forms of Christian baptism.  We are happy to celebrate a remembrance of baptism and a renewal of baptism vows, but we do not require anyone to be rebaptized.

We celebrate Holy Communion about once a month, and on important days of the church calendar.  Seeing the Gospel example of Jesus eating with all who would sit with him, we pratice an open table.  All who seek to follow Christ are welcome to receive communion.  We use grape juice for the cup, and alternate between serving people in the pews and coming forward for intinction.

Children in Worship 

Children are an important part of the life of our church.  We welcome them in worship, and have a special time for them in the service.  Most Sundays they then go to Sunday School or Young Church.  We have a nursery that is staffed each Sunday and on special worship times like Christmas Eve or Maundy Thursday.