“Our effectiveness in creating justice, ending violence, feeding the hungry, loving the stranger—all of that work is entirely dependent on who we are for each other.”
OUR MINISTRIES
First Congregational is a faith community that supports the full spectrum of a person’s life and provides a variety of ministries to meet ever-changing needs. Ministry opportunities are open to all; no personal invitation needed.
Contact the office for any questions.
Please explore some of the ways we serve our community:
Children and Youth
Jaqui Eicher leads the ministry for children of all ages at First Congregational Church. On Sundays, during worship, Jaqui offers special child/youth programming in the Fireplace Room. Read more about Jaqui and Sunday School here.
We offer ongoing educational opportunities in a variety of different settings depending on what we are talking about, reflecting on, or acting around as a community. Sometimes, these opportunities take place at 9 a.m. before our communal worship at 10:30 a.m. – other times, on a weeknight or after worship on Sunday. Check our calendar to see our current schedule. Check our calendar to see our current schedule.
Caring Circle
The Caring Circle exists to help members of the congregation when they are in crisis or simply feeling fragile. All of us need a hand, support, or spiritual accompaniment.
This group grew organically from our congregation. People recognized their friends sometimes could use a hand up or a shoulder to cry on. In the UCC, we take it seriously that we are all in service to one another; each of us is a minister. So, we match people’s needs with the remarkable gifts of our congregation.
Choir
Our church choir is open to everyone over age 18. Rehearsal is at 7:15 p.m. Wednesdays and 9 a.m. Sundays, September through May. Check the calendar.
Choir director is Dr. Steven Zielke, Director of Choral Studies at Oregon State University.
Justice, Witness and Outreach
The way we show up in the world is a critical reflection of the theology we hold dear. Throughout our history we have worked in both the sacred and secular arena on behalf of environmental and economic justice, the LGBTQ communities, and with immigrant and refugee populations. Most recently, we have added working to become anti-racist allies, and just healthcare advocates to our social justice efforts.
This year, our lay-led Justice, Witness and Outreach teams are working in the areas of:
- Race (Caroline Zaworski)
- Immigration (Ken Crouse)
- Houseless Communities (Aleita Hass-Holcombe)
- Healthcare for All (Mike Huntington)
- Climate Change (Larry Weymouth)
All of these teams provide opportunities to engage directly with affected populations in partnership with other organizations. If you are interested in joining the work of one of these groups, please connect with the church office.
Men's Circle
This circle is a safe place for male-identifying persons to openly and authentically talk about their lives, experiences, and the spiritual journey. It’s safe because everyone commits to confidentially within the group; nothing leaves the room. This is an opportunity for each person in the group to explore who they are, what they want, and how they connect with others.
Meets at 9 a.m. on the first Saturday of the month in the Fireplace Room. Led by Peter Walker.
Men's Breakfast
Every first Friday of the month at 8:30 a.m., everyone is invited to attend the Men's Breakfast at Shari's Restaurant in Corvallis. Contact person is Larry Weymouth.
Soul Care
Join us around the fireplace with a hot tea or coffee. Get comfortable and find comfort in spiritual community. This is your time for discussion, reflection and meditation.
We may use a book or a short reading to help prompt the conversation. There's no pressure to come prepared. In the end, it’s your presence that matters.
Come as you are and join us in this informal setting. Check our calendar for the next Soul Care gathering. Meets at 11 a.m. Wednesdays in the Fireplace Room. Led by Pastor Jen Butler.
Trustees
Our Trustees engage in the ministry of bricks and mortar – caring for the structure and the earth that our community finds its home in. These committed volunteers do everything from managing major building projects and repairs to mowing the lawn. If you are interested in volunteering your skills to partner in their work, please connect with Team Lead Sally Robertson.
Trustees typically meet at 5:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month in the Library. Check the calendar.
Women's Breakfast
The Women's Breakfast Group shares an early morning start, food, and fellowship at 7:30 a.m. on second and fourth Wednesdays for an hour at Tommy's 4th Street Bar & Grill in Corvallis. All are welcome, just show up! Contact person is Gretchen Morris.
Women's Fellowship
Women's Fellowship meets on the first Wednesday of each month October through May. This monthly meeting is an informal gathering for lunch at noon in the Fireplace Room, followed by an hour-long program at 1 p.m. in the Meeting Hall. Everyone is invited to attend.
The Central Pacific Conference of the United Church of Christ organizes an annual Women's Retreat in October at Camp Adams in Molalla, Oregon. Nancy Klingeman is the contact person.