First Congregational Church Montclair NJ

Progressive Christianity: Transforming Labels into Living

2012-01-24T05:56:00.000-08:00

Progressive Christianity: Transforming Labels into Living

Wednesday Evening Adult Discussion Series

February 1, 8:15-9:45 in the library

Our Wednesday Evening Discussion series has begun! Last week we gathered for a thought provoking and inspiring conversation about the meaning of Jesus in our faith. This Wednesday we will continue our series on progressive Christianity by exploring the second point:

by calling ourselves progressive, we mean we are Christians who recognize the faithfulness of other people who have other names for the way to God's realm, and acknowlege that their ways are true for them, as our ways are true for us.

To prepare for our conversation I have attached the pdf of the Eight Points of Progressive Christianity (you only need to read the explanation of Point #2) and my sermon from last Sunday which explored this second point.

All are welcome to join us!

Rev. Ann Ralosky
Senior Minister
First Congregational Church, UCC
40 South Fullerton Ave
Montclair, NJ 07042

www.firstcongmontclair.org

This Sunday at First Congregational Church!

2012-01-20T11:29:00.001-08:00

January 12, 2012 at 10:30am

This Sunday we continue our Winter Sermon Series: "Progressive Christianity: Transforming Labels into Living." As the new year begins we will deepen our faith journeys as we explore who we are as Christians. If someone asked you "What kind of Christian are you?" what would you say? For many of us, this is not an easy question to answer. We might be able to state who we are NOT easier than claim who we are. We may have come from traditions that held us to a narrow definition of Christianity, labels that do not feel authentic to us as we experience more challenging and expansive ways to understand God. So for the next six weeks we will explore what it might mean to claim an identity as "Progressive Christians." Using the Eight Points of Progressive Christianity created by the Center for Progressive Christianity (www.tcpc.org) we will explore a different characteristic each Sunday.

Struggling for Social Justice in Latin America and Beyond with Father Roy Bourgeois

2012-01-17T10:47:00.000-08:00

Thursday, January 19th, 7:30 pm in the FCC Sanctuary

Roy Bourgeois is the founder of The School of Americas Watch, a grassroots movement to close The School of the Americas, a military training camp housed at the Fort Benning Army Base in Columbus, GA. The SOA trains soldiers from Latin America in counterinsurgency techniques, including torture. Soldiers trained at the SOA have been, and still are, responsible for perpetrating death and violence against the people of Latin America. For over 20 years, Roy has dedicated himself to the goal of closing the SOA and educating the public about U.S. foreign policy in Latin America.

This event is co-sponsored by: Voices of the Faithful, School of the Americas Watch & NJ Peace Action.

"Jesus Has Left the Building... And We Followed" Service Weekend January 28-29

2012-01-17T10:44:00.000-08:00

Three Ways to Serve our Neighbors in Need:

Provide Shelter: Habitat for Humanity Newark Build (Saturday January 28th, 8 am-5 pm)

Provide Food: Community Food Bank of New Jersey
(Saturday January 28th, 8:30 am—11:30 am)

Provide Love: Broadway House for Continuing Care (worship service 2 pm)

Please sign up in the Guild Room or see Brendan Bevensee for details!

Wednesday Evening Adult Study Series: "Progressive Christianity: Transforming Labels into Living"

2012-01-17T10:42:00.000-08:00

Wednesdays January 18 through February 15, 8:15-9:45 p.m.

This study series will correspond to the sermon series and invites us to discuss in depth the characteristics of progressive Christianity that will be explored in the previous Sunday. This is a wonderful opportunity to have a robust and challenging dialogue about the faith we share at FCC. Long-timers and new comers are welcome to join the conversation! Questions? Please see Rev. Ann or email her.

Going Deeper: Winter Sermon and Study Series

2012-01-17T10:32:00.000-08:00

Sunday Sermon Series: "Progressive Christianity:

Transforming Labels into Living"

Sunday Worship January 15 - February 19

If someone asked you, "What kind of Christian are you?" what would you say? As members of FCC we might use words like "inclusive", "peace and justice oriented", "spiritually centered" or "Jesus-following." When trying to describe all of those things we often use the term "progressive," but what does that really mean? Does it truly capture who we are? Does it go too far or not far enough? Labels are loaded things - and labels about faith identity are no exception. Yet they can also help us identify and embrace our values and live them out more au¬thentically. This sermon series will, explore what it might mean to call ourselves "progressive Christians." Each Sunday we will unpack a different characteristic of progressive Christianity and explore how it can transform and deepen our faith as Christians.

Christmas Eve Services "Hope is Born"

2011-11-29T08:17:00.000-08:00

5pm Family Service of Story and Song; 10pm Candlelight Service with Holy Communion.

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service with Holy Communion

2011-11-29T08:16:00.000-08:00

10pm Candlelight Service with Holy Communion.
When
Sat Dec 24 10pm – Sun Dec 25, 2011 12am Eastern Time
Where
First Congregational Church, Montclair, NJ

World AIDS Day Service

2011-11-29T08:10:00.000-08:00

December 1, 7pm

at

Broadway House for Continuing Care

All members and friends of First Congregational Church are invited to attend an interfaith service to mark World AIDS day on Thursday, December 1 at 7pm at Broadway House for Continuing Care. Broadway House is NJ's largest HIV/AIDS nursing home and a mission partner of FCC's for the past several years. The service will feature the gospel choir of Liberation in Truth Unity Fellowship Church of Newark. All are welcome to attend.

Directions to Broadway House (298 Broadway, Newark, NJ) can be found on their website http://www.broadwayhouse.org/

Hope to see you there!

Rev. Ann Ralosky
Senior Minister
First Congregational Church, UCC
40 South Fullerton Ave
Montclair, NJ 07042

www.firstcongmontclair.org

"The Harvest/La Cosecha"

2011-11-28T07:41:00.001-08:00

*Music by Thomas Wesley Stern before & after the film*

Friday, November 18 7:00pm
FCC (The Guild Room) 40 South Fullerton Ave.

The Harvest/La Cosecha tells the story of three of the more than 400,000 American children who work in the fields to pick the food we eat.
"An earnest documentary about child migrant farm workers in the United States, has a muckraking agenda but a melancholy soul." - NY Times

Eva Longoria, one of the Executive Producers, received the Special Achievement Award for The Harvest/La Cosecha from the National Center of La Raza.
This eye opening documentary was produced by Shine Global, a non-profit documentary organization focused on children's issues.
Two of the films' producers, Albie Hecht & Susan MacLaury founded Shine Global and live in Montclair.

The Harvest/La Cosecha: http://theharvestfilm.com Thomas Wesley Stern: http://soundcloud.com/thomaswesleystern

This Event is Free & All are Welcome

Turkey / Food Drive to benefit the Community Food Bank of NJ

2011-11-28T07:40:00.001-08:00

Saturday November 19^th, 9:00 a.m to 2:00 p.m.

First Congregational Church, 40 South Fullerton, Montclair, NJ

FCC parking lot (access from Plymouth Street)

No need to get out of your car – just donate to one of the helpful volunteers.

Frozen turkeys, non-perishable food and monetary donations will be accepted.

Artists needed!

2011-07-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

Looking for a creative summer project? The First Congregational Church of Montclair would like to give you an opportunity! We are planning to paint murals on the wall of our church school classrooms and need someone to help us design and execute the project. Interested? Contact Mattie Johnson or Lynley Jones for more information. Contact email here.

August 13th Back to School Booth

2011-07-18T12:58:00.000-07:00

Consider donating some time to this worthy endeavor. This is our fifth year hosting this booth that provides school supplies to needy children in our area. We encourage you to consider a cash donation or a time donation to help run the booth. The event will be held at the Seventh Day Adventist Church Health Fair in Glenfield Park, Montclair. You do not need to be a member of either church to participate.

View Larger Map

Mark your calendars!

2011-07-18T12:53:00.000-07:00

August 7 worship will be at Union Congregational Church, 176 Cooper Ave., Montclair, NJ at 10:00 a.m. We will join our sister church for our summer tradition of sharing our services.

View Larger Map

Bridges Outreach for the Homeless/Impressions

2011-06-30T07:39:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, May 29th, a hot and humid day, as part of our "Jesus Has Left the Building" service project, several members of First Congregational Church made 300(!) sandwiches prior to traveling to the parking lot behind Pennsylvania Station in Newark, to hand them out. The line of homeless people, mostly men of color, some women, and even children(!) were already in a line, waiting! We handed out cups of soup and lemonade, two sandwiches, each, and clothing: it was a "shirt day", and everyone received a new shirt, (sizes were matched as best as possible), followed by a new pair of underwear and socks. Many were quite thankful for the little we had done.

It became apparent that we would run out of sandwiches before the line of homeless ended! We started to give out just ONE sandwich per person, to a chorus of disappointment. It was heartbreaking.

Several people hid their sandwiches and clothing, and tried to get into line, again. One man in line had no shoes! Although hard to estimate in the organized chaos, the turnout must have been over 200 people, more than expected!

Luckily, just as we were running out of all food and clothing, another church group arrived to hand out additional drinks and sandwiches. Another line quickly formed.

The number of homeless, and their condition, was shocking. We returned to Montclair, a mere 15 minutes away, in our air-conditioned cars, to our air-conditioned houses, - left running while we were gone for the DOGS' comfort, - brunched at the Blue Stone Cafe on Watchung Avenue, followed by the five dollar Sunday New York Times, (with advertisements for a $950.00 pair of shoes, a $125.00 pair of shorts, and a $3,215.00 watch), and a swim at a private club in town. The sadness and guilt were palpable.

FCC Children's Education Program - June 26, 2011 follow-up

2011-06-28T05:41:00.001-07:00

Dear FCC Parents,

I hope you all are doing well! This Sunday in the FCC Children's Education Program, church camp began and it was a fun encounter with God! Through a new worship dance, to creating their church camp team cheers, to the movement game "bigger/smaller" - the children jumped into knowing and hearing from God. Amidst all of the fun, the focus was on declaring "here I am" to God. The children learned how God is everywhere - in their hearts, minds, neighbors and anywhere else. But the children also learned that it is important to proactively seek a relationship with God through declaring our presence and seeking to know God more. Through strengthening their relationships with God, the children learned how to share that love with others.

Creating the Kid Zone!
Saturday July 2 - 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday July 3 - After coffee hour to 5:00 p.m.
Saturday July 9 - 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday July 10 - After coffee hour to 5:00 p.m.
Saturday July 16 - if work still needed on the rooms - 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

As you know, we are moving forward with our plans to transform our current church school space into a fun and friendly "Kid Zone," with beautiful artistic elements, kid-sized furniture and rich, engaging age-appropriate features that help to make our church school a place children love to be in and look forward to returning to each week.

We are ready to kick off the painting phase of this project! We will be painting the walls of each classroom (and in some cases, the ceiling!), starting next weekend, July 2.

We are looking for more volunteers to help with the painting. No experience or artistic skill is necessary! If you can hold a brush, this job is for you!

Thank you so much for your support of this important project! We understand how busy everyone is, and how precious weekend time is, and we are deeply grateful for any time that you can give to support this project.

As always, if you have any questions or thoughts, please feel free to contact me. Take care and enjoy the week!

Mattie Johnson
Director of Christian Education
First Congregational Church of Montclair, NJ

FCC Children's Education Program - Church Camp - June 26, 2011

2011-06-27T06:03:00.001-07:00

Dear FCC Parents,

I hope you all are doing well and enjoying the week!

The time for church camp has arrived! The children will launch into church camp with this Sunday's theme of "Here I Am!" Through an interactive worship dance to playing "Bigger/Smaller" a movement game that shows the excitement and joy we get when we invite God into our lives, hearts and actions to playing Red Light, Green Light, the children are going to jump into church camp and encounter a fun, engaging experience with God. It is not to be missed!

This weekend I encourage you to talk with your child about what it means to declare, "Here I am, God!" How do we declare our presence to God and what does that mean for our lives? In many ways, declaring our presence to God is an invitation to God to be in our hearts, lives and actions. It is through our daily lives where we pray, seek to love others and treat each other justly that we invite God and God's love into our lives, declare our presence to God and strengthen our relationships with God.

I also wanted to let you know that in the spirit of summer camp, the children are going to be divided into two teams throughout church camp - Team Wind and Team Fire! The teams will be divided up by age each Sunday and compete against themselves to achieve that week's team challenge. The teams will not compete against each other, but each team will compete against itself to win a prize as a team at the end of the summer (don't worry, it is very likely that both teams will win!). This week's challenge is to create a team cheer!

Below is more information about church camp.

FCC Church Camp 2011 is HERE!
June 26 – September 11 (12 weeks)
First Congregational Church
10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Summer 2011 marks the beginning of our new summer Church Camp, to be held during services every Sunday morning from June 26 – September 11. From outdoor games to theater activities to large-scale art projects, the children are going to jump into fun that will fire their imaginations while engaging their faith. Children should come to church wearing play clothes. If you have any questions, feel free to e-mail me for more information.

Creating the Kid Zone!
Saturday July 2 - 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday July 3 - After coffee hour to 5:00 p.m.
Saturday July 9 - 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday July 10 - After coffee hour to 5:00 p.m.
Saturday July 16 - if work still needed on the rooms - 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

As you know, we are moving forward with our plans to transform our current church school space into a fun and friendly "Kid Zone," with beautiful artistic elements, kid-sized furniture and rich, engaging age-appropriate features that help to make our church school a place children love to be in and look forward to returning to each week.

We are ready to kick off the painting phase of this project! We will be painting the walls of each classroom (and in some cases, the ceiling!), starting next weekend, July 2.

We are looking for more volunteers to help with the painting. No experience or artistic skill is necessary! If you can hold a brush, this job is for you!

Thank you so much for your support of this important project! We understand how busy everyone is, and how precious weekend time is, and we are deeply grateful for any time that you can give to support this project.

As always, if you have any questions or thoughts, please feel free to contact me. Take care and enjoy the weekend!

Mattie Johnson

Director of Christian Education

First Congregational Church of Montclair, NJ

FCC Children's Education Program - May 29, 2011

2011-05-27T05:37:00.000-07:00

Dear FCC Parents,

I hope you all are doing well and looking forward to enjoying the holiday weekend with your families!

This week, Jesus reconfirms the relationship we have among himself, God, the Holy Spirit and us. In John 14:15-21, Jesus assures us that we are not alone or abandoned in life, but that God is with us always and God even sent us a "helper" to keep us grounded in God. Jesus' message is simple - we are all in this together, including himself and God.

For our daily lives, what does this unity mean or how does it change anything? Jesus reminds us that at the heart of our connection to each other and to God is love - a love that spills out into our actions, words and relationships.

This weekend, I encourage you to talk with your child about what being in it with God means. Remind your child that from the big moments in life down to the little ones, God is with us and we are given the opportunity to share God's love with others.

FCC Worship

Sunday May 27, 2011 - 11 AM - NOTE TIME CHANGE
First Montclair House
56 Walnut St.

As the church is closed due to construction, we will be holding our worship at First Montclair House, a senior citizen's residence in Montclair (just off Grove St., behind Grove Pharmacy). There will be no formal church school this Sunday, but there will be a few ways for the children to engage in this worship service. We will have a children's sermon and paper and crayons available for the children to draw pictures and cards for FMH residents. I know a few children have done this previously and it was really special for FMH; they thanked the children immensely for their kindness and talked about hanging up the drawings on their refrigerator. Children are also encouraged to participate in the ice cream social after worship, which will be delicious as long as a lot of fun!

As always, if you have any questions or thoughts, please let me know. Take care and I hope to see you all on Sunday!

Mattie Johnson

This Sunday at First Congregational Church! May 29, 2011 This is our "Jesus Has Left the Building...And We Followed!" service Sunday

2011-05-26T09:42:00.001-07:00

Please note the following information:

Due to construction work going on in our building, the entire building will be closed Friday, May 27 through Monday May 30th. However, we will be "following Jesus" to various locations to serve our community.

On Sunday we will be gathering for worship at First Montclair House, a senior citizen's residence at 56 Walnut St. in Montclair (just off Grove St., behind Grove Pharmacy). Rev. Ann will be preaching on John's Gospel 14:15-21 -- in a sermon titled "What's Love Got to Do With It?"

Worship will begin at 11:00am.

While we will not have formal church school, children are welcome and will be making special pictures and cards for the residents during worship.

Immediately following worship we will have a coffee hour and ice-cream social with the residents. All "savory" brunch -type contributions would be welcome!

cheese/crackers
fruit
bagels
quiche, etc.

If you would like to bring something, please contact Liz Donald at Liz77donald@gmail.com.

We look forward to seeing you there!

FCC Children's Education Program - May 22, 2011 follow-up

2011-05-24T07:06:00.000-07:00

Dear FCC Parents,

I hope you all enjoyed the weekend with your families!

This past Sunday, May 22, the children began one part of a two week lesson about fellowship. Using John 14:1-14 as our jumping off point, we explored what it means for Jesus to be "the way, and the truth, and the life." Jesus lovingly invites us into his relationship with God. As we get to experience God's love through Jesus, we are encouraged to share God's love with others in true fellowship. The children explored the importance of fellowship through making a "path" of good deeds and becoming "team machines" that encourage working together and respecting each other.

This week, I encourage you to speak with your child about other opportunities s/he can take to love others. Particularly this comingSunday, May 29, we are participating in Jesus Has Left The Building, a Sunday where our worship is expressed through helping others. There are many ways to participate and you should refer to your bulletin for more information. I encourage you this week to pick a venue and fellowship opportunity that appeals to your family and to talk more with your child about the value of helping out and continuing to love others through fellowship opportunities.

Jesus Has Left The Building

Sunday May 29 - 10:30am

First Montclair House - NOTE LOCATION CHANGE!

56 Walnut Street

One opportunity geared just for children is during the worship service on Sunday at First Montclair House the children will make a welcome banner for foster children arriving from Colombia for a summer in the US and learn about welcoming the "stranger" or anyone new to our communities. Between the art project and spending time with friends at church, this Sunday will be a lot of fun!

As always, if you have any questions or thoughts, please feel free to contact me.

Take care and I hope you have a great week. See you on Sunday,
Mattie Johnson

Share the Sermon May 29!

2011-05-23T05:48:00.000-07:00

This Sunday we continue to explore the Gospel of John and particularly chapter 14:15-21 where Jesus shares his parting thoughts with his friends. He focuses his message on how his friends are to continue his ministry without him and promises them that he will not truly leave him as his Spirit will be with them. As you read this passage, I invite your reflections on how the Spirit is present to you. Does it challenge you? Inspire you? Comfort you? I welcome your refelctions!

I am really looking foward to continuing this shared experience and thank all of you for the many ways you inspire my ministry!

peace,
Ann

Rev. Ann Ralosky
Senior Minister
First Congregational Church, UCC
40 South Fullerton Ave
Montclair, NJ 07042

www.firstcongmontclair.org

Reminder - Bridges brown bag lunches due Sunday!

2011-05-20T06:10:00.000-07:00

This Sunday in the FCC Children's Education Program

2011-05-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

This Sunday in the FCC Children's Education Program

Dear FCC Parents,

I hope you all are having a good week, despite all of this rain!

This Sunday in the FCC Children's Education Program, we continue our journey through the experiences of the early Christian church to learn more about the value of fellowship. What does fellowship mean? Why is it a valuable means of expressing our relationships to God? This week through the story of Stephen and the first Christian communities, we learn how important it is to take care of each other, to love each other and to work together. Through making a "stone" path of good deeds and becoming "team machines" to highlight the importance of working together, the children are going to jump into their journeys of faith.

Fellowship, or sharing God's love with others, is something some of the children have learned about in the past. Is there someone in your child's life that s/he could reach out to and share God's love with? Or is there a particular social justice issue, such as hunger, homelessness or relief aid that your child has expressed interest in helping out at before? This weekend, I encourage you to speak with your child about the opportunities in their own lives to love others.

As always, if you have any questions, thoughts, advice or concerns, please let me know.

Take care and I hope you enjoy the weekend,

Mattie Johnson

This Sunday at First Congregational Church! May 15, 2011, 10:30am

2011-05-13T10:21:00.000-07:00

The season of Easter continues as we experience the risen Christ in different ways. This Sunday we hear the story of the early Christian community -- that radical group who attempted to create a new way to live together. Welcoming the stranger, sharing all they had with whoever had need, and turning no one away was what set them apart. Centering all of this in the love of risen Christ is what brought them together. We will hear about this remarkable community in a scripture reading from the Book of Acts (2:42-47).

While Rev. Ann is away on retreat this weekend, we are very blessed to have with us a special guest preacher, Rev. Sue Goodwin, Co-Pastor of Grace UCC in Flemington, NJ. She will explore this passage in a sermon called "Christian Community." Please welcome her warmly into our community!

Lay Worship Leaders:

Liturgist:      Jocelyn Emerson
Ushers:         Del Pentecost, Willie Harris & Robert Kerr
Reader:        Barry Moore
Coffee hour: Clarissa Schoch

Announcements

New Member class continues this Sunday, May 15! If you are interested in learning more about FCC, the United Church of Christ, and what it means to be a member of this congregation, please join us in the library immediately after worship. This the third of three classes which run for one hour each. Those wishing to join will be recieved into membership during worship on Sunday, May 22. Child care is available during the classes. Please see Rev. Ann for details.

Ministry of Children and Youth meeting immediately after worship.    Our church school is growing and we have many plans on how to help it thrive into the future. All parents are invited to join Lynley Jones and Mattie Johnson in the church school classroom immediately after worship to learn more. Child care will be provided.

Dinner and a Movie Sunday night at 5pm in the Guild Room.    Enjoy the critically-acclaimed family film "Up!" and share some fun with FCC Friends. Bring a pot-luck dish to share, relax and watch the fillm -- a perfect Sunday evening!

Bible Study is held every Sunday at 9:30am in the library. All are welcome to join a lively and thought-provoking discussion on the lectionary reading.

Upcoming Events in the FCC Children's Education Program - May 15, 2011

2011-05-10T06:29:00.000-07:00

Dear FCC Parents,

I hope you all are doing well! It was lovely to see so many of you and your children today. I again wanted to congratulate all of the children who received their Bibles this morning. It is one step of many on their journeys of faith and we hope their Bibles will be helpful to them. If your child could not make it to the Bible workshop, we have extra handouts available in the church school room, feel free to pick them up next Sunday.

To recap what your children learned about in the Children's Education Program this morning - we read Luke 24:13-35 (the story of two disciples meeting Jesus on the road to Emmaus) to launch into a discussion about communion. At the heart of our conversation was how communion not only speaks to our relationship with God, where we seek to be closer to God and we receive physical and spiritual nourishment from God, but also our relationships to each other, where we seek to care for each other and grow closer together.

If you wanted to talk with your child more about what s/he learned about in church school today, you could ask your child - what opportunities do you have in you own life to care for others? Are there people in your life that you could reach out to and share God's love with? I hope that the seeds planted this morning through the Children's Education Program continue to grow throughout this coming week.

Finally, below there is more information about an upcoming event at FCC - the first meeting of the Children and Youth Ministry! As always, if you have any questions, feel free to be in contact with me.

Take care and I hope you all have a great week,

Mattie Johnson

Donations needed for Bridges brown bag lunches

2011-05-06T10:29:00.001-07:00

This Sunday at First Congregational Church!

2011-05-06T10:10:00.000-07:00

Sunday, May 8, 2011:

The season of Easter continues as we experience the risen Christ in different ways. This Sunday we hear the story of the two travelers on the Emmaus Road who encounter Christ in the form of a stranger who "warms their hearts" and "opens their eyes." After the horrors and heartache of Good Friday, they were not expecting this re-appearance of God's love in their midst.   How often are we taken by surprise by the same thing?

This Sunday we will also explore the events of this last week and wrestle with the implications for us as Americans and as followers of Jesus. We will share a modern lesson from the Buddhist monk and peace activist, Thich Nhat Hanh, who challenges us to look deeply at how we respond to war and conflict. As with any subject as complex as this, there are more questions than answers. Rev. Ann will address the many national responses to the killing of Osama bin Laden in a sermon entitled "How Do We Respond?"

Lay Worship Leaders:

Liturgist:      Jocelyn Emerson

Ushers:         Brendan Bevensee, Del Pentecost, Willie Harris & Robert Kerr

Reader:        Deirdre Nance

Coffee hour: Hospitality Ministry (Del Pentecost & Jeanne LoCicero

Special Announcements

    * New Member classes continue this Sunday, May 8! If you are interested in learning more about FCC, the United Church of Christ, and what it means to be a member of this congregation, please join us in the library immediately after worship. This the second of three classes which run for one hour each. Even if you missed the first class, please feel free to attend. Those wishing to join will be recieved into membership during worship on Sunday, May 22. Child care is available during the classes. Please see Rev. Ann for details.

    * Bible Study is held every Sunday at 9:30am in the library. All are welcome to join a lively and thought-provoking discussion on the lectionary reading.

Ministry of Children Education & Youth

2011-05-04T10:32:00.001-07:00

Special "Harry Potter Movie Night" Sunday April 10

2011-04-08T11:59:00.000-07:00

For FCC kids at 5:30pm in the Guild Room! Come for a pizza dinner and a showing of "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone." Let Mattie know you're coming! madeline.m.johnson@gmail.com

This Sunday at First Congregational Church!

2011-03-25T10:55:00.000-07:00

Deep Thirst

For the next five weeks we will be travelling in our season of Lent, the challenging forty day journey that prepares us for the joy of Easter morning. Lent is a time of deep discovery -- a time of moving to a different spiritual rhythm in our lives. Each Sunday during worship we will explore a different aspect of our journeys of faith.

This Sunday we share two scripture readings that explore the power of water. In Exodus 17:1-7 we travel with Moses and the Israelites into the wilderness. Having been freed from the bondage in Egypt they now find themselves facing the challenge of freedom and risk dying of thirst. In John's gospel (John 4:5-14), Jesus enounters a Samaritan woman at the well who is suffering from a different kind of thirst. Water is essential for life. Physically, we cannot survive long without it, and spiritually the metaphor of water reminds us that our souls need quenching as well. Rev. Ann will preach a sermon entitled "Deep Thirst: Finding Water in the Desert."

Take a deep spiritual breath this Lent!

2011-03-15T09:48:00.000-07:00

Walk the Labyrinth each Wednesday through April 20 from 6pm-8pm in the Sanctuary of the First Congregational Church of Montclair.

What is a labyrinth?

All are welcome !

See the video below for more information on the labyrinth experience! The journey is waiting for you.

We Celebrate "Covenant Sunday!"

2011-03-04T10:21:00.000-08:00

For the past five months we have been exploring five aspects of our spiritual lives: prayer, presence, generosity, service and growth. This Sunday we step into our future of faith as we promise to live into those practices day by day. As a renewing church, these promises are a sign of hope -- a sign of transformation. During this special worship service we celebrate that covenant by making a commitment to support this work of this church in our giving of time, talent and treasure as we make our pledges for 2011 with a very special offertory.

We will hear the story of Jesus' transfiguration from Matthew's gospel (17:1-9), where his friends received a glimpse of what true transformation looks like -- and were challenged to live new lives in response. In a sermon entitled "The Promise of Change" Rev. Ann will explore what it means for us to be transformed by God's presence as well as we step into our future of faith.

In addition to the wonderful music of the FCC choir, Children's choir and Bell choir, we will welcome special guest musicians and the talents of many of own members, including Heather Krauza, Lauren Marden, Dick Thomas and Scott Ziegler.

Immediately following worship we will celebrate our covenants with a special reception in the Guild Room. All are welcome to attend.

This Sunday at First Congregational Church! February is a month of Growth.

2011-02-25T08:27:00.000-08:00

Sunday, February 27: As we enter the fifth month in our Season of Covenants we make a covenant of “growth.” Like the winter's ground that appears cold and bare, our spiritual lives can also feel lifeless. During this contemplative season we are invited to nurture the seeds of our spirit and cultivate a deeper relationship with God and one another through reflection, study, and worship.

This Sunday the "Sermon on the Mount" continues to challenge us as Jesus invites us to "stop worrying about tomorrow." Easier said than done, Jesus! In a world that seems awash in anxiety Jesus offers us a change in perspective, a new way of centering our lives in what really matters. Rev. Ann will explore Matthew's gospel (6:19-21, 24-34) in a sermon entitled "That All-Surrounding Grace."

In addition to the wonderful music of the FCC choir, we will welcome special guest musicians Catherine McGowan and Bernadette Malavarca (of local band "Bern and the Brights") to offer a special piece.

And finally, this is New Members Sunday! We will welcome Kate Chardavoyne & Jose Rivera, Matteo & Lisa Massiello, and Lara & Matt Sullivan and their families into our church family. Please join us for this special day!

A Salt and Light Log Share!

2011-02-11T10:52:00.000-08:00

This morning I spent some time with a lovely elderly woman with no family. She lives in a nursing home and has very few visitors. We talked about her memories of growing up in Montclair and especially her memories of FCC (which she used to sneak into with the pastor's daughter and smoke cigarettes!). Laughing with her blessed me as much as it blessed her!

Bible Study!

2011-02-11T10:47:00.000-08:00

Bible Study held every Sunday morning at 9:30 in the library. Join in a lively discussion of today's scripture passage. All are welcome!

Interfaith Hospitality Network (IHN) needs volunteers for Feb 28!

2011-02-11T10:44:00.000-08:00

Interfaith Hospitality Network (IHN) needs volunteers for Feb 28! We will provide comfort to temporarily homeless families by serving and sharing a meal, companionship, homework help and overnight supervision. Sign-up sheets are in the Guild Room or contact Brendan Bevensee at brendan_elwood@yahoo.com

Dinner and a Movie Sunday Night!

2011-02-11T10:41:00.000-08:00

Dinner and a Movie Sunday Night! Beat the winter blues with an evening of "Chocolat" (the movie) and chocolate (the dessert). We'll gather in the Guild Room at 5pm to watch the film, engage in enlightening theological discussion, and enjoy a warm bowl of chili, salad, corn bread and dessert. Children will watch "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" in the library.

New Member Classes!

2011-02-11T10:37:00.001-08:00

New Member Classes continue Sunday! Everyone interested in learning about membership at First Congregational church are invited to a series of three classes (Feb 6,13,20) held immediately following worship. Questions? Please contact Rev. Ann (revann@fccmtc.com)

This Sunday at First Congregational Church! February is a month of Growth.

2011-02-04T12:00:00.000-08:00

This Sunday, February 6th! ALL are welcome to join us at 10:30 a.m. for our service.

As we enter the fifth month in our Season of Covenants we make a covenant of “growth.” Like the winter's ground that appears cold and bare, our spiritual lives can also feel lifeless. During this contemplative season we are invited to nurture the seeds of our spirit and cultivate a deeper relationship with God and one another through reflection, study, and worship.

This Sunday we hear again from Jesus' "Sermon on the Mount" in Matthew's gospel (5:13-27). Into a world that often feels dark and hopeless, Jesus tells us that we are the "salt of the earth and light of the world." Rev. Ann will explore the bold invitation of those words in a sermon entitled "Spice It Up, Let It Shine!" Our bell choir will accompany our choir for some particularly sparkling music!

This Sunday we will also begin our three-Sunday series of "Telling Our Stories." We will hear the personal journeys of three members of our church of how they experience God in their lives. This Sunday we are grateful to receive the story of Mark Graceffo.

We will experience the warmth and light of Christ's welcome as we celebrate the sacrament of Holy Communion. Our communion table is an open table -- all are welcome. No doubt is too strong, no faith is too weak to share in the abundant feast of God.

Church School "Meet & Greet"!

2011-01-28T10:24:00.000-08:00

Church School "Meet & Greet" immediately after worship in the Sunday School Room! All parents are invited to meet Mattie Johnson, our new Christian Education Director, learn of her plans for the Spring, discuss ideas for our growing Church School and get to know the other families. Questions? Please contact Mattie Johnson madeline.m.johnson@gmail.com

This Sunday at First Congregational Church!

2011-01-28T10:22:00.000-08:00

As we enter the fourth month in our Season of Covenants we make a covenant of “service”. At the heart of the gospel, Jesus tells us that "what ever we do for the least among us, we do for him." In a season of welcoming, we search for Christ in our neighbor and welcome God's invitation to serve one another, sharing ourselves to magnify God's grace in the world.

This Sunday we explore one the most counter-cultural passages in all of the gospels: the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-23). Here we learn the paradigm shift of God which challenges our conventional wisdom and invites us to rethink who is "blessed" in our world. Our Modern Reading is taken from a contemporary litany of beatitudes found on the wall of Mother Teresa's orphanage in Calcutta.

As this the the fifth Sunday of the month, we have traditionally held our "Jesus Has Left the Building...And We Followed" service Sunday. However, this Sunday Jesus is staying in the building and we will focus part of our worship on the meaning of that ministry and how we can continue to place it at the center of our spiritual life at FCC.

FCC Caregiving Concern

2011-01-27T09:27:00.000-08:00

Broadway House for Continuing Care, 298 Broadway, Newark. New Jersey's largest HIV/AIDS nursing home. 973-268-9797.

FCC Homelessness Concern

2011-01-27T09:21:00.000-08:00

Montclair Emergency Shelter for the Homeless MESH. Houses area homeless during the cold weather. Located at First Methodist Church, 33 N. Fullerton Ave., Montclair. For more information contact Fr. Wade Renn at 973-655-1052.

FCC Hunger Concern

2011-01-27T09:07:00.000-08:00

Salvation Army Montclair, Trinity Place, Montclair. Serves lunch to the hungry at 12 Noon, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. 973-744-3312

This Sunday at First Congregational Church!

2011-01-21T10:12:00.000-08:00

January 23, 2011, 10:30am

January is a month of Service!

As we continue the fourth month in our Season of Covenants we make a covenant of “service”. At the heart of the gospel, Jesus tells us that "what ever we do for the least among us, we do for him." In a season of welcoming, we search for Christ in our neighbor and welcome God's invitation to serve one another, sharing ourselves to magnify God's grace in the world.

This Sunday we consider the question of what it means to follow Jesus. We hear the story of Peter and Andrew (Matthew 4:12-23), two ordinary fisherman who's lives were forever changed by Jesus' invitation. How would we respond? Our Modern Reading is taken from the book Let Your Life Speak: Listening to the Voice of Vocation by Parker Palmer. It poses the question of what it means to follow a call. Rev. Ann Ralosky will explore this question in a sermon entitled "Lean Back."

Family Communion Workshop

2011-01-20T06:37:00.001-08:00

Family Communion Workshop

Saturday, February 5 from 10am-12noon

Join us for a hands-on exploration of the sacrament of Communion geared for children. We will learn the origins and meanings of this special ritual meal, tell stories, bake bread and share the sacrament together. All families are welcome!

Please RSVP to Rev. Ann (revann@fccmtc.com ) or call the church 973-744-4856 by January 30.

MMO Registration now!

2011-01-10T12:35:00.000-08:00

Registration for September 2011 School Year programs begins January 10th!
Ongoing registration for infant and toddler care.
Quality care for infants between six weeks and seventeen months of age. My Morning Out for eighteen months throuogh thirty months. Nursery years, Pre K, and Summer Programs for two through six years old.

Hours
7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, calendar available upon request.

Scheduling options are full and part time with part time/drop off available.

If you would like more information and/or a tour please call 973-744-6521 or email info@mmoprograms.org

This Sunday: 2010 Children's Christmas Pageant

2010-12-17T17:20:00.000-08:00

We are most excited to experience the 2010 Children's Christmas Pageant written, directed and staged by our own Shannon Daly and staring our church school children. This time the story is told through the eyes of the "unnamed characters", the animals, shepherds and magi. It's a wonderful FCC tradition and not to be missed!

[image: vocationvibes.franciscan.org]

This Sunday at First Congregational Church!

2010-12-17T17:13:00.000-08:00

December 19, 2010, 10:30am

This Sunday we enter the third month in our Season of Covenants as we make a covenant of "generosity." In a season of "getting", we explore with spiritual joy of giving -- of sharing ourselves to magnify God's grace in the world.

This is the fourth Sunday of Advent, the time in which we prepare our lives for the coming of the Christ Child on Christmas morning. It is a time of watching and waiting, gaining keener awareness of the way God is present in our world. Last Sunday we heard the story through Mary's eyes. This Sunday we hear from Joseph (Matthew 1:18-25) and share with him the wonder of "God with Us." Rev. Ann Ralosky will preach a sermon entitled "The Impractical Gift." Our modern reading is an essay by English mystic Evelyn Underhill from the book Watch for the Light.

The Vespa-Papaleo/Weiss will light the fourth candle on our Advent wreath as we begin to take the first steps on our Advent Journey together.

[image: www.accesschurchaz.com]

Longest Night Service December 21

2010-12-16T10:49:00.000-08:00

Longest Night Service December 21, 8pm

The Christmas season is often a time of joy and celebration, but for many of us it is a time of sorrow. Feeling grief, loneliness or loss of any kind during the holidays can be painful. On the eve of the Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year, First Congregational Church will offer a service of prayer and healing to remind us of God's presence in a difficult time.

All are welcome.

To learn more about the service, click here or contact the church office at 973-744-4856

or email Rev. Ann Ralosky

First Congregational Church Enjoying A Comeback - Montclair, NJ Patch

2010-12-13T06:35:00.000-08:00

First Congregational Church Enjoying A Comeback - Montclair, NJ Patch

Pull up outside the extremely impressive exterior of the First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, at 40 South Fullerton Avenue, and you'll notice a giant red banner with the words: "Jesus Didn't Turn People Away ... Neither Do We." The message is an important one, explains Rev. Ann Ralosky, as the church's "inclusiveness" is something she constantly seeks to emphasize. Read more at Montclair Patch.

This Sunday at First Congregational Church!

2010-12-10T11:37:00.000-08:00

December is a month of Generosity.

This Sunday we embrace the third month in our Season of Covenants as we make a covenant of "generosity." In a season of "getting", we explore with spiritual joy of giving -- of sharing ourselves to magnify God's grace in the world.

This is the third Sunday of Advent, the time in which we prepare our lives for the coming of the Christ Child on Christmas morning. It is a time of watching and waiting, gaining keener awareness of the way God is present in our world. This Sunday we celebrate "The Magnificat" -- Mary's radical song of justice in response to God's invitation from the Gospel of Luke 1:47-55. Our modern reading is from the book Mary: Shadow of Grace by theologian Megan McKenna. The choir and Rev. Ann will explore the many faces of Mary in a special service of song, story and imagery.

The Graceffo family will light the third candle on our Advent wreath as we continue on our Advent Journey together.

Montclair Emergency Shelter for the Homeless

2010-12-10T11:33:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, FCC will be the home of the Montclair Emergency Shelter for the Homeless (MESH) this winter. There have been some wonderful articles in the Montclair Times that have demonstrated the dire need for this kind of shelter and the challenges in getting it going. MESH is a project of the Montclair Clergy Association, and this shelter is truly a shared labor of love from folks throughout our town. FCC is blessed to have the kind of space necessary to offer and we are glad to be a part of this project.

We also have 25 volunteers lined up to serve throughout the winter, but will need more. If you would like to serve in this important ministry, there will be a training held at FCC on Monday, Dec 13 and Tues Dec 14 at 7pm in the FCC lower level. You need only attend one of the days.

As the weather gets colder, life on the streets becomes more dangerous for our homeless brothers and sisters. We are grateful for any offerings of prayer, service or financial assistance to keep them safe and warm this winter. If you have questions, please contact Rev. Wade Renn at wade@therenns.net or 973-655-1052.

Our Lady of Guadalupe Prayer & Labyrinth Service December 12th

2010-12-09T12:55:00.000-08:00

Special worship service

Our Lady of Guadalupe Prayer & Labyrinth Service

December 12^th at 5:30pm

Join us for a special evening of prayer devoted to the story of Our Lady of Guadalupe,

a Mexican tradition that dates to the 16th century.

During the Christmas season we explore that power of Mary as “divine mother”

and symbol of God’s particular care for the poor and vulnerable.

Mark Graceffo and Rev. Ann will lead a contemplative service

followed by an open labyrinth walk.

All are welcome!

Labyrinth Walk Tonight!

2010-12-08T07:02:00.001-08:00

Back to the Future:

Ancient Ways to a Living Faith

Advent Labyrinth Walk

Do you long for a deeper connection to God this season?

Unplug from the busyness of your life

and nourish your spirit with a weekly ritual of

contemplative spiritual practice.

Open labyrinth walk in Sanctuary

from 6:00-8:30pm.

This Sunday at First Congregational Church!

2010-11-12T10:18:00.000-08:00

This Sunday we enter the second month in our Season of Covenants as we make a covenant of "presence." Being present, to one another and to God, is truly a counter-cultural act in an age of "virtual reality." Studies tell us that the more plugged-in we become to technology the more we lose the gift of empathy with one another. So this month we will explore the many ways we can reclaim the lost art of "being there."

Also on this Sunday we will explore what it means to experience God's presence in our community. In a world where we struggle with poverty, war, racial tension and environmental crises, finding God is challenging. In our scripture reading we will hear from the prophet Isaiah (65:17-25) who sees signs of God in daily joys of community. In our modern reading we will hear from Archbishop Desmond Tutu who saw a vision of God in the struggles of South Africans during apartheid. Rev. Ann Ralosky will preach a sermon entitled "Waking Up to the Dream."

And we will celebrate God's presence in the sacrament of Baptism, as we welcome Grace into our faith and family. Please join us for this special morning!

Turkey Drive November 20

2010-11-10T08:03:00.000-08:00

Benefiting the Community Food Bank of NJ, drop off your frozen turkeys and give a family a happier Thanksgiving. Turkeys can be dropped off from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, 20 November. Thanks!

Homeless in America

2010-10-27T08:47:00.000-07:00

Brown Bag Lunches for Bridges Outreach for the Homeless

2010-10-27T07:23:00.000-07:00

As we approach the Holiday season, let us remember those who are less fortunate then ourselves. During these difficult economic times, many are need and less are able to give. Giving however, need not be of great magnitude on a personal level. If many contribute, even though small, the total will be great. One loaf will become many loaves!

As part of our "Jesus Has Left the Building... and We Followed" mission project on October 31st we will be assembling 300 lunches to take to our homeless neighbors in Irvington, New Jersey. This is a joint effort between the First Congregational Church of Montclair and the Bridges Outreach for the Homeless. If you are able to donate either food or money, please bring these to FCC anytime through Friday, October 29th.

These are some of the ideas that we can use:

Fruit cups
Juice boxes
Bottled water (8 ounce size)
Granola bars
Individually packaged treats

If you would like to contribute some of your time, folks are meeting at FCC (South Fullerton Street, Montclair, next to the Public Library) at 9 a.m (about 1 hour of time) on Sunday morning to pack the lunches.

Jesus has left the building October 31st!

2010-10-27T07:08:00.000-07:00

On Sunday October 31st we will worship God through service to others. There will be no worship in the Sanctuary and the doors will be closed. There are different avenues available for those wishing to participate. It is not necessary to be a member of the First Congregational Church to contribute your time or to donate money or food. If you would like to learn more about this, please contact FCC.

This Sunday at First Congregational Church!

2010-10-08T10:11:00.000-07:00

This Sunday, as we continue to explore the practice of prayer, we wonder what it means when we feel like we are in "exile" -- separated from the familiar, "strangers in a strange land." From both our modern voice, Sr. Joan Chittister, and from the ancient voice of the prophet Jeremiah (29:1, 4-7), we hear some startling words of hope about what it means to live fully and pray passionately, even when we feel far from home. Rev. Ann Ralosky will explore this question in a sermon entitled "In-between Time."

In response to the tragic deaths of so many young gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and questions people around the country who could not survive their own sense of exile, we will lift up a special prayer litany of remembrance, love and hope in their memory. Please join your prayers with ours that all may be strengthened in hope and love.

Volunteer opportunity at FCC this month!

2010-10-05T09:46:00.000-07:00

Members of the FCC Community are always encouraged to volunteer for the numerous FCC-related events. In addition, members of the larger community of Essex County and other North Jersey areas are also welcome!

CropWalk - First Congregational Church of Montclair will be the start and finish location for the CropWalk at 2:00 pm on Sunday, October 17. Materials will be available this coming Sunday during our Church Coffee Hour to sign up and line up pledges for the walk. If you cannot walk, but would like to contribute, you may also donate to our online team, FCC Montclair Walkers, by going to www.churchworldservice.org. Volunteers are also needed from 1:30 to approximately 3:30 to greet and sign in the walkers, and to check them in on their return. Teams from throughout the community will be represented and it would be wonderful to have great representation from our congregation.

What are CROP Hunger Walks?

They are community-wide events sponsored by Church World Service and organized by local congregations to raise funds to end hunger at home and around the world.

Cecilia Appianim, Fair Trade Cocoa Farmer in Montclair

2010-10-04T15:38:00.000-07:00

Cecilia Appianim, Fair Trade Cocoa Farmer in Montclair on October 5th!

Join us to learn more about and enjoy samples of the world's favorite sweet treat!

First Congregational Church, 40 South Fullerton Ave., Montclair Tuesday, October 5 7:30 pm Google Map for First Congregational Church

Cecilia is a member of Kuapa Kokoo in Ghana - the first and largest Fair Trade cocoa cooperative. Kuapa Kokoo produces the 'divine' cocoa in Divine Chocolate bars. Cecilia will speak about the benefits of Fair Trade and how the practice of gender equity in the cooperative carried over into her personal life.

Cecilia's U.S. tour is being sponsored by Fair Trade Towns USA and this event is being organized by the four Fair Trade Town campaigns in N.J. (Montclair, Teaneck, Highland Park & Red Bank) and First Congregational Church.

The Power of 1

2010-10-04T10:46:00.001-07:00

Family Communion Workshop Saturday Oct 2

2010-09-28T10:49:00.000-07:00

Dear Families,

When we worship we do three simple but powerful things: gather the people, tell the story, and break the bread. This Saturday, October 2 from 10am-12noon we will explore the last one: Breaking the Bread, also known as the sacrament of Holy Communion. For those of us who come from other Christian faith traditions, especially Catholics, there can be a lot of confusion and uncertainty about what this ritual means for children. This workshop is designed to answer your questions in a fun, engaging, and enlightening experience designed for children 12 and under and their parents.

During our time together we will:

* share stories about the important meals in our lives
* hear stories about how Jesus ate
* learn the origins of this sacrament and how it has been understood over the centuries
* bake bread which will be used on our Communion service on Sunday, Oct 3
* make a special craft to take home
* have some "parent time" to discuss the sacrament with Rev. Ann

Please join us! Even if you came last year -- you are welcome to come again. It is important that you let me know if you are coming so we can prepare for the right number. Please RSVP ASAP! You may email me back or call the church office (973-744-4856).

Prospective Member class at First Congregational Church

2010-09-21T07:54:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends of FCC,

Beginning in October we will be holding our fall series of conversations for prospective members. Many of you have been participating in the life of First Congregational Church for many months now, and some have just begun to get acquainted with us. No matter how long you have been with us you are warmly invited to be a part of these conversations. They will be held on three consecutive Sundays -- October 3, 10 & 17 -- immediately after worship. We hope to receive new members into the community on Sunday, October 24. The sessions last 1 hour and child care can be made available.

The goal of the classes is to explore your spiritual journey and to help you get to know what First Congregational Church (and our denomination, the United Church of Christ) is all about. We will discuss where we began, what we believe, and how we live our faith out in the world. It's part history lesson, part theology class, and a very lively conversation about issues that matter!

To become a member of any faith community is an important commitment. We have been blessed by your presence at FCC and sincerely hope you will consider joining us. If you have any thoughts or questions, or would like to speak with me in person about your faith journey, please do not hesitate to contact me. My door is always open!

Church Picnic, Sunday Sept 26!

2010-09-17T10:17:00.000-07:00

Image by ~jjjohn~ via FlickrDon't forget to sign up for the Fall All-Church Picnic! Wonderful food, good friends and lots of fun! Sign-ups in Guild Room or see Anne Garty or Liz Donald.

This Sunday at First Congregational Church!

2010-09-17T10:15:00.000-07:00

Welcome back, summer travelers! This Sunday we will begin our new church year with the return of our children's Church School and the inspiring music of the choir. It has been a lovely, restful summer and now the excitement of new life begins!

We will also share the Parable of the Talents, (Matthew 15:14-30) where Jesus challenges us to take risks with the abundant gifts God has given to us. While Matthew's language can feel harsh, we will explore the underlying message of grace which comes from a radical trust in God's promise.

“Ready, Set, Grow” – FCC Renewal Weekend!!

2010-09-10T10:19:00.001-07:00

Sept. 25th and 26th. Be part of the activities of renewing our church. Saturday afternoon strategy and inspiration sessions followed by worship and picnic on Sunday.

Congregational Meeting following worship on Sept. 19th

2010-09-10T10:18:00.001-07:00

A meeting of the entire congregation is being called. Issues on the agenda will include the growth initiative plan, physical plant issues, MMO expansion and updates on FCC future plans and ministries. All members and friends are invited to attend!

This Sunday at First Congregational Church!

2010-09-10T10:17:00.000-07:00

God’s wrath and God’s grace – two very different sides of God’s interaction with humanity. This Sunday the contrast will be explored by our guest preacher, Lydia York in her sermon, “Hot Wind of Disaster, Found Coin of Grace” based on readings from Jeremiah 4 and Luke 15. Lydia is a member of FCC and is working to complete a PhD in theology at Drew University . Lydia earned her MDiv from Chicago Theological Seminary in 2003 and hopes to pursue ordination in-care with FCC.

Also offering a ministry of presence will be our reader Jackie Stearns, our ushers Steve Groom and John Sampson. Sarah Pomerantz will bring the Children’s Message and Vivianne Potter will be hosting Coffee Hour. The flowers in the sanctuary are given by Vivianne in honor of her daughter Maya’s birthday. Maya Potter, Lauren Marden and Benjamin Villanueva will offer special music. The Rev. Barbara Prince will be liturgist.

Rev. Ann returns for next Sunday’s worship.

Bible Study

2010-09-03T10:42:00.001-07:00

# Bible Study continues to meet at 9:30am in the library and discuss the book The Shack by William Young. Whether you've read it or not, all are welcome!

This Sunday at First Congregational Church! September 5, 2010

2010-09-03T10:41:00.001-07:00

Does being a Christian change the way you see the world? Does it inspire you challenge injustices and inequities? Or does it give you "cover" to look the other way? This Sunday we will share Paul's letter to Philemon (yes -- all 21 lines of it!) and explore what it means to see the world through the eyes of Christ. Rev. Ann Ralosky will preach a sermon on Phil. 1-21 entitled "Do the Right Thing."

As our summer of "special music" continues we will be graced by the voice of Clarissa Schoch with Julie Morgan on piano.

As this is the first Sunday of the month, we will be gathering around the table to celebrate the Sacrament of Communion. As we look through the eyes of Christ, we offer an open table -- ALL are welcome to share it.

Lay worship leadership:

Reader: Jackie Berliner-Jackson

Usher: Phil Daly

Coffee Hour hosts: Jackson Family

What Doesn't Change?

2010-08-30T06:13:00.001-07:00

Excerpt from Hebrews 13:7-21

"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever."

Reflection by William C. Green

If faith in Jesus is thought to have become weaker and narrower than it used to be, our vision is limited to the northern and western parts of the globe. In the south and east, Jesus is a rising star.

Circumstances shift and change, but not Jesus. What changes is our understanding of Jesus and the conditions that influence it. Those who are poor or jobless but devout believers will see a different Jesus than do many of the more affluent among us. Those dedicated to preserving dogma and doctrine will be suspicious of any understanding of a God who is still speaking with more to say than we've heard before.

More than time-honored beliefs and values, Jesus inspires character, without which the best standards can be wielded as weapons—as when the importance of hard work and personal responsibility is laid on the unemployed, or when patriotism makes us suspicious of immigrants while we rely on their labor, or when church or faith leave little room for those of different sexual orientations.

Yesterday, today, and forever, Jesus lives in the spirit of God he awakens. Under his influence, we become better "characters": more just and charitable, more attentive to the needs of others, less dismissive of views and values not our own, and more responsive to the new life we're given to know and share with others.

Prayer
Whatever changes with the times, God, may I stay focused on Jesus, drawing on his spirit and growing closer to you. Amen.
About the Author
William C. Green, a United Church of Christ minister, is the Director of Long Looking, a consultancy service specializing in fundraising and education for congregations. His new book, 52 Ways to Ignite Your Congregation: Generous Giving, has just been published.

What are “traditional family values”?

2010-08-13T10:24:00.000-07:00

This Sunday August 15 at First Congregational Church of Montclair:

What are “traditional family values”? Do we know what that means? What are “traditional family values” according to Jesus? This week, Brad Bannon returns to FCC and continues to explore “troubling” Biblical passages as Sarah did last week. In this week’s scriptural passage (Luke 12:49-56), Jesus proclaims that He “did not come to bring peace, but division” through a baptism of fire. How might we understand this surprising statement in light of today’s debates over traditional family values and the role of the Bible in our church? Brad looks for help in unexpected places – an ancient Hindu theologian (Shankara) and a Renaissance Christian mystic (Nicholas of Cusa) – in a sermon entitled “(No?) Peace: The Possibility of God and the Possibilities of Scripture.” Don’t miss it!

The Responsible Leader

2010-07-26T05:32:00.001-07:00

The Responsible Leader

Excerpt from Judges 6:36-4
"Gideon said to God, 'If this is right, if you are using me to save Israel as you've said, then look: I'm placing a fleece of wool on the threshing floor. If dew is on the fleece only, but the floor is dry, then I know that you will use me to save Israel, as you said.'"

Reflection by Ron Buford

Colin Powell once said he was proud of being called a "reluctant warrior." Powell is typical among warriors who actually risked their own lives to save others and who can also never erase the brain-searing memories of horrific death and human carnage--of friends and enemies, comrades and combatants, all believing they were "right." Such warriors are rarely eager to go to war--stereotypes notwithstanding. So it is with Gideon: if he is going to battle, he wants to be absolutely certain his cause is just, that it is God's will.

Each day we face battles. Some days we take on battles that satisfy our egos but that leave behind human and spiritual carnage. Is it worth it? Look at what it costs you to be right? Is it at the center of God's Divine purpose for you, your family, those for whom you are responsible? Slow down; take time to be mindful today.

Prayer
Gracious God, thank you for the gift of Divine choice. May my choices and actions today maximize your Divine presence, power, and creativity in the world, in my home, for good in the world. Amen.

About the Author
Ron Buford is Director of Development for the Northern California Nevada Conference of the United Church of Christ.

Parenting Circle July 7

2010-07-06T10:49:00.000-07:00

Dear Parents,

Just a reminder that the FCC Parenting Circle will meet tomorrow, July 7 at 8pm at my house.

As we prepare for our time together you are asked to read the following chapters in our discussion book, The Blessings of a Skinned Knee by Wendy Mogel:

Chapter 3. The Blessing of Having Someone To Look Up To: Honoring Mother and Father
Chapter 4. The Blessing of a Skinned Knee: Why God Doesn't Want You to Overprotect Your Child

To prepare for our discussion, please consider the following reflection:

When you were growing-up how did you address your parents and their friends? How did you address teachers? If you were required to be more formal than your children are, what were the advantages and disadvantages?

Think back to your childhood. On a summer night, were you able to play outside until dark without adult supervision? Could you ride your bike freely in your neighborhood? Recall the bones you broke, the adventures you had. What were the benefits of this degree of freedom? Any harm? Compare your experiences to your child's current degree of freedom.

Quotes of the Day:

"When a person honors the parents, God says, 'I consider it as though I lived with them and they honored me.'"(Talmud, Kiddushin, 30b)

"Do not to put a stumbling block before the blind." (Leviticus,19:14)

If you need copies of the chapters, please let me know -- I have a few at the church. If this is your first time attending, you are welcome -- even if you haven't read the book! In order to get as much fruitful discussion in as possible, please try to arrive as close to 8pm as humanly possible!

I hope everyone is keeping cool (on every level!),

peace,
Ann acralosky@msn.com

This Sunday at First Congregational Church!

2010-07-03T06:49:00.000-07:00

This Sunday as we worship on July 4th we will explore what it means to be an American and a Christian. In a sermon entitled "Both Sides of the Coin" Rev. Ann Ralosky will continue her "share the sermon" series with a look at two texts: Deuteronomy 15:7-11 and Matthew 22:15-22 as we ask the question: what does belong to Caesar and what belongs to God? What does it mean to live in a society that dares to put God's priorities in the center?

In honor of the day we will also enjoy some special renditions of classic American hymns.
We will also host our sister congregation, Union Congregational Church, for worship and fellowship as we continue our annual summer tradition. As special coffee hour will be held outside in our Memorial Garden to celebrate our time together.

Reader: Bob Berry

Usher: Jeanne LoCicero and Karen Marden

Coffee Hour: Fellowship Committee

Special Announcements

* S.O.S! Shorts On Sunday! Our welcome is not the only thing that's warm... our Sanctuary is too! The summer heat is here so we are dressing cool and casual for worship.
* Special Collection for the Youth Mission Trip. During this Sunday's offertory we will be taking up a special collection to support Lauren Marden and Maya Potter as they join the youth from Union Congregational Church on thier mission trip to South Dakota. Please be generous!
* Bible Study will continue each Sunday through the summer at 9:30am in the Library. Questions? See Bob Sillery.
* Join us in the Parade! On Monday July 5, FCC will join Union Cong as we march together in the Montclair Independence Day Parade. Meet in the FCC parking lot at 10:15 for refreshments and then take our place in line at 11am.

Summer Music Lessons at FCC

2010-07-01T07:17:00.000-07:00

Many folks in our church have expressed an interest in learning to read music and play handbells. So, I’d like to offer a series of 5 sessions at church in July and early August, on a weeknight teaching a course that combines beginning handbell instruction with basic music-reading instruction. We’ll also incorporate a little bit of sight-singing, so that your voices won’t miss out on all the fun! Lauren Marden – bell-ringer, musician, and budding music-teacher extraordinaire – will co-lead with me. We are, of course, offering this course free of charge.

The course is open to folks of all ages. It would be terrific to have all the generations represented! And who knows, maybe we’ll decide to enhance the evenings with an occasional pre-class pizza/sub event or post-class ice cream experience…

The dates and times have not been set yet; this notice is to ask if there is sufficient interest in such a class. Being mid- summer, I know that many people will be on vacation and away for at least part of the time; you could still attend the course as long as you can come to at least three of the five sessions.

If interested, please contact Julie Morgan at jmorgan@collegiatechorale.org

Put My Tears in Your Bottle

2010-06-28T06:07:00.001-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

Excerpt from Psalm 56

“You have kept count of my tossings; put my tears in your bottle.”

Reflection by Martin B. Copenhaver
There is an ancient Jewish proverb: “What soap is for the body, tears are for the soul.”

There is some catharsis in shedding tears. And tears that are never shed do not go away. They become something else—bitterness, depression, hardness of heart, increased grief. So God invites our tears.

But more, the author of this psalm pleads with God, “Put my tears in your bottle.” Imagine! God has a bottle for our tears!

It was an ancient Jewish practice for mourners to have a small bottle in which they could collect their tears. The top would allow those tears to evaporate over time, and when the bottle was completely dry, the time of grieving was considered over.

So the psalmist asks God, “Put my tears in your bottle.” We don’t need to keep our sorrow and our tears in the tight little bottle within us where they are usually kept, burning and vengeful, because God has a bottle for our tears.

It must be a bottle as big as the ocean because in it are the psalmist’s tears, a prophet’s tears over injustice, Jesus’ tears over the death of his friend Lazarus, tears of parents whose children have died in war, widows’ tears, toddlers’ tears, spurned lovers’ tears, your tears and mine, mingling with the tears of countless others from countless sorrows.

When we come to God with our grief, God does not pat us on the head and offer a condescending, “Now, now…” Rather, God receives our tears like an offering and holds them, as if in a bottle, honoring our grief and sharing it.

Prayer
God, thank you for honoring my grief enough to hold it and to share it. Amen.

About the Author
Martin B. Copenhaver is Senior Pastor, Wellesley Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, Wellesley, Massachusetts. His new book, This Odd and Wondrous Calling: the Public and Private Lives of Two Ministers, co-authored with Lillian Daniel, has just been published.

This Sunday at First Congregational Church!

2010-06-26T05:19:00.001-07:00

June 27, 2010

This Sunday we begin our summer "share the sermon" series as we explore the passing of leadership from the prophet Elijah to his "understudy", Elisha. Following God's lead in difficult times requires more than just what we bring to the job -- it requires a "double portion" of the Spirit and a willingness to step into leadership with courage and faith. With gratitude for the wonderful comments, questions and insights she received from the congregation, Rev. Ann will preach a sermon based on 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14 called "Pick Up the Mantle."

Parenting Circle

2010-06-21T12:54:00.000-07:00

Dear Parents,

Just a reminder that our Parenting Circle small group will be meeting this Wednesday, June 23, at 8pm at my home. We will be reading the first two chapters of the book "Blessings of A Skinned Knee" by Wendy Mogel, Ph.D. Please let me know if you would like copies of those two chapters, I have them at church. The book is available in most bookstores and online.

Parents and caregivers of children of all ages are welcome to be a part of this supportive circle. You are welcome to bring something to snack on and to drink. Hope to see you then! For additional information, email admin@fccmtc.com

peace,
Ann

Special Collection for the Youth Mission Trip!

2010-06-19T12:50:00.000-07:00

During this Sunday's offertory we will be taking up a special collection to support Lauren Marden and Maya Potter as they join the youth from Union Congregational Church on their mission trip to South Dakota . Please be generous!

This Sunday at First Congregational Church!

2010-06-19T12:48:00.000-07:00

This Sunday we stand at the mouth of the cave with Elijah, straining for a sign of God's presence. Like that beleaguered prophet, we tend to look for God in the obvious -- in the wind or the fire or the earthquake, the "big" events in our lives -- and often don't recognize God in the silence, the still small voice. In a sermon entitled "Holy Silence" Rev. Ann will explore this experience based on the scripture text 1 Kings 19:1-4,8-15a.

We will also be celebrating a milestone in the life of our church school children as those entering grade 4 and higher will receive their bibles. This will be the last Sunday of the church school year and we give thanks to Joan and all her parent helpers for all the loving care and wonderful guidance they give to our young people!

Family Bible Workshop Saturday June 19!

2010-06-17T12:23:00.000-07:00

Family Bible Workshop Saturday June 19 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. For children entering 4th grade or higher and their parents. Explore our faith's most special book in a fun and interactive way. We will be preparing our children to receive bibles during worship on Sunday 20 June.

[Image:calvarychurch.org]

Bible Study each Sunday morning!

2010-06-15T10:28:00.000-07:00

Each Sunday morning at 9:30 a.m. in the Library, we will be discussing the lectionary texts for the week coming from the Book of Kings. All are welcome!

Open and Affirming!

2010-06-07T13:01:00.000-07:00

GoAnimate.com: All are Welcome at FCC Montclair! by Mark@fb

Like it? Create your own at GoAnimate.com. It's free and fun!

Our new promotional piece!

2010-06-04T07:44:00.000-07:00

Event photographer?

2010-06-01T08:11:00.000-07:00

Our church is looking for members to photograph the many events that take place at First Congregational Church, Montclair. We are very interested in photos of people at these events, we are hoping to capture the excitement and spirit of what FCC Montclair is all about. Some of the possibilities are Fellowship coffee hour, Jesus has Left the Building, Gay Pride Parade, 4th of July Parade, good works, etc. If you are interested (you do not need to be a professional, just willing to takes LOTS of photos) please contact admin@fccmtc.com Thanks!

Going Out and Coming In

2010-06-01T06:16:00.000-07:00

Excerpt from Psalm 121

"The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time on and forevermore."

Reflection by Anthony B. Robinson

June is a big month for big transitions. People graduate from high school, college and grad school. Couples are married. Congregations mark confirmations. People and families set out, moving from one home to a new one. In this Psalm, a song for pilgrims on the journey to Jerusalem, God promises to be present in a special way in the transitions, the times of "going out and coming in."

Transitions can be precarious. They are filled with hope and grief, apprehension and anticipation. About this time last year, we were preparing for the wedding of one of our three children, the first of our kids to get married. I was thrilled and I was grieving. I was proud and I was perplexed. Probably everyone who was most involved was in some middle zone between a going out and a coming in. Something had ended but we hadn’t quite arrived at the new place. In between was a jumble.

We often want to get through the in-between times as quickly as possible. That’s understandable but maybe unwise. We need the spaces between, strange and confusing as they may be. Maybe that’s why the Psalm assures us that God is especially present in those times between, between the going out and the coming in. God works with us in a special way in the times between to guide us, to teach us, to lead us.

Prayer
Be near, we pray, to those who now are in between. Watch over those who are going out and those who are coming in, and especially watch over those who are in the space between. Amen.

About the Author
Tony Robinson, a United Church of Christ minister, is a speaker, teacher and writer. His most recent book is Changing the Conversation: A Third Way for Congregations. Read his weekly reflections on the current lectionary texts at www.anthonybrobinson.com by clicking on Weekly Reading.

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This Sunday at First Congregational Church!

2010-05-28T09:51:00.000-07:00

This Sunday at First Congregational Church!

May 30, 2010

Jesus Has Left the Building...And We Followed!

This Sunday is service Sunday at FCC. There is no worship in the Sanctuary. Instead we are worshipping God through serving our neighbors in Newark , Irvington , and Montclair . We are collecting clothing for the homeless, serving lunch in a soup kitchen, sharing worship with senior citizens, and gardening at an HIV/AIDS nursing home.

We will return again for worship in the Sanctuary on Sunday June 6 at 10:30am!

See you then!

To keep up with all that is happening at First Congregational Church, be sure to check out our website www.firstcongmontclair.org

Last Wednesday Labyrinth Walk

2010-05-26T06:24:00.000-07:00

The Last Wednesday Labyrinth Walk will take place this evening between 6:00-8:30 pm.

A labyrinth is an ancient spiritual tool, a path of walking meditation designed to open our hearts and mind to the presence of God.

You are invited to join in our final prayer walk of the season. The experience is unstructured and contemplative – beginners are most welcome!

Rev. Barb Prince and Rev. Ann Ralosky will be on hand to answer questions or provide guidance.

“Make me to know your ways, O God; teach me your paths.” Psalm 25:4

[Image: www.st-james-piccadilly.org/labyrinth.html]

Reminder! Clothing/Toiletries drive is being held through May 30!

2010-05-24T07:00:00.000-07:00

Time is running out! Please consider donating clothing and toiletries to FCC for Broadway House and Bridges Outreach for the Homeless on our "Jesus Has Left the Building" Sunday on May 30th.I am sure that you have items in your closets and bathrooms that are suitable for this donation drive. Even if you are not a member of the First Congregational Church of Montclair, we welcome your generosity! Your donation can be dropped off at FCC church, located on South Fullerton Ave.

Peace

2010-05-24T05:27:00.001-07:00

Excerpt from John 14: 25-27

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives."

Reflection by Anthony B. Robinson
Peace seems to be something everyone wants. But there are different types of peace. Jesus says that there is a type of peace the world gives and the type of peace he gives. What's the difference?

Years ago I heard a preacher say the world's peace is of three sorts: the peace of the fortress, the peace of the palace, and the peace of escape. The fortress is having enough power that we get peace. The palace is having enough stuff that we get peace. The peace of escape is getting away from it all, "getting away for the weekend," or getting high. Turns out that none of the three forms of peace the world gives are enduring. Someone can always take them away. So we have to keep on getting more -- more power, more stuff, and more escapes.

What about the peace Jesus gives? It's a strange peace. It is not gained from the power of guns or missile shields, gates or security systems, but the power of his presence. It is not gained from having more stuff, but from knowing his love. It is not found in getting away, but by going with Jesus into the hard and challenging places of life. His is the peace that can't be taken from us, the peace that endures in all life's circumstances.

Prayer
"Pardon for sin and a peace so enduring/your own dear presence to cheer and to guide. Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, blessings all mine with 10,000 beside. Great is your faithfulness, great is your faithfulness! Morning by morning new mercies I see; All I have needed your life has provided, Great is your faithfulness, God, unto me!" (New Century Hymnal, 423)

About the Author
About the Author Tony Robinson, a United Church of Christ minister, is a speaker, teacher and writer. His most recent book is Changing the Conversation: A Third Way for Congregations. Read his weekly reflections on the current lectionary texts at www.anthonybrobinson.com by clicking on Weekly Reading.

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Do You Live with a Jerk?

2010-05-21T05:53:00.000-07:00

Excerpt from Galatians 6: 7-10

"Do not be deceived; God is not mocked, for you reap whatever you sow."

Reflection by Lillian Daniel
I have always heard the expression "You reap what you sow." But I am not sure I really believe it. I see jerks get ahead in life. I see good people who work hard end up without fame or fortune. Do you really reap what you sow?

If all you look at is material gain in this world, then you would have to be an idiot to think you reap what you sow. Just think about the television show, "Celebrity Apprentice." A guy who built his fortune on his father's money, and wears the worst comb-over ever, gets to host a television show offering advice on business to celebrities who have no business running one. Clearly, we do not reap what we sow.

But if you look at this from the spiritual angle, it is actually true. Spiritually, I really do believe we get back what we put in.

The jerk who gets ahead by being a jerk still has to live with himself. And that means living with a jerk, twenty four/seven.

The person who treats other kindly, who offers respect to everyone, who spreads love in the midst of nastiness, that person gets to live with himself, too.

So, who has the better roommate?

Prayer
Jesus, you came to earth to teach us a different way. When I am envious or bitter about who has what, remind me to watch what I am putting out into the world. I don't want to live with a jerk. Amen.

About the AuthorLillian Daniel is the senior minister of the First Congregational Church, UCC, Glen Ellyn, Illinois. Her new book, This Odd and Wondrous Calling: the Public and Private Lives of Two Ministers, co-authored with Martin B. Copenhaver, has just been published.

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Make Believe: an afternoon of beautiful music

2010-05-17T08:30:00.000-07:00

Sunday 23 May at 3:00 p.m., a fundraiser for Broadway House and The New Jersey Roundup. Featuring Dale Livingston and Friends. This event will be held at First Congregational Church, 40 S Fullerton Ave., Montclair NJ.

Tickets are $15.00 in advance and $20.00 at the door. For more information, please contact admin@fccmtc.com.

Going Noisily

2010-05-17T05:45:00.000-07:00

Excerpt from Acts 16: 35-40

"But Paul replied, 'They have beaten us in public; uncondemned, men who are Roman citizens, and have thrown us into prison; and now are they going to discharge us in secret? Certainly not!'"

Reflection by Anthony B. Robinson
Here are Paul and Silas in Philippi, where they've been wrongly beaten and jailed. Now they receive a get-out-of-jail-free card, and are told to leave town quietly. But Paul refused to go quietly. He insisted on bringing the whole sorry mess into the open and letting everyone know that power has been badly misused.

These days, companies, and sometimes churches, give a similar deal to the people they want to get rid of. You will get this buy-out if you agree to go quietly and make no fuss. Sometimes that's the best you can do. Sometimes it is the right thing to do. But sometimes it's neither the best nor the right thing.

Sometimes matters need to get brought into the open. Responsibility needs to be taken. Apology needs to be made and heard. Sin needs to be owned and confessed. And then we can (and should), like Paul and Silas, move on. Too often we try to move on without responsibility owned or repentance made. We just want folks to go quietly and pretend nothing happened. The thing is, that doesn't really work. Like a wound improperly dressed, it festers and infects the whole body. Sometimes things need to be opened up and faced, so that we can truly go on.

Prayer
Help me and us to discern, dear God, when is the time for going quietly and when it is not that time. And when it's time to open things up, give me and us the courage to do so. Amen.

About the Author
Tony Robinson, a United Church of Christ minister, is a speaker, teacher and writer. His most recent book is Changing the Conversation: A Third Way for Congregations. Read his weekly reflections on the current lectionary texts at http://www.anthonybrobinson.com/ by clicking on Weekly Reading.

Reminder! Clothing/Toiletries drive is being held through May 30

2010-05-14T10:40:00.000-07:00

Please bring mens', womens' and childrens' clothing and travel-sized toiletries to the Narthex. We will be sorting and delivering these items to Broadway House and Bridges Outreach for the Homeless on our "Jesus Has Left the Building" Sunday on May 30th. Anyone in the Montclair community can bring items. Any questions please contact the church at admin@fccmtc.com

This Sunday at First Congregational Church! May 16, 2010 at 10:30am

2010-05-14T10:37:00.000-07:00

What makes us "Christian?" From Catholic to Protestant, orthodox, conservative, evangelical and progressive, Christians claim many labels, creeds and denominations. Throughout history these divisions have inspired creative new theologies and practices as well as hostility and war -- hardly what Jesus must have envisioned as the " kingdom of God ." This Sunday we will hear from Jesus' prayer "that they may all be one" as shared in John's gospel (John 17:20-26) and we will explore what it means for us to be unified in Christ with all who seek to follow him. Rev. Ann Ralosky will preach a sermon entitled "Coming Together."
[Image source: chadcottle.wordpress.com]

Jesus has left the building May 30th!

2010-05-11T06:10:00.000-07:00

On Sunday 30th May we will not hold worship in the Sanctuary, but will worship God through service to our community. Service venues include: First Montclair House, Broadway House for Continuing Care, 7th Day Adventist Soup Kitchen, and collecting clothing/toiletries for our neighbors in need at Bridges Outreach for the Homeless.

You need not be a member of FCC, if you want to join us in service to the community, please contact First Congregational Church, Montclair. Email here.