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Friends and Neighbors,

We are not a “progressive” church that merely welcomes LGBTQ+ persons.
We recognize and honor the presence of God in all people and fully welcome them into our community to be members, leaders, teachers, and preachers.

We are not a “progressive” church that uses inclusive language to be politically correct.
We identify the limitations of a male-dominated society and seek to rediscover the gifts and strengths of the feminine in both our members and the sacred.

We are not a “progressive” church that is all intellectual and boring.
We celebrate with joy and laughter our faith through varieties of music, the arts, worship styles, and forms of service and action in the community.

We are not a “progressive” church that considers the Bible irrelevant for today.
We value these ancient stories of people’s experiences of God in different times and cultures by using them as entry points to experience the presence and guidance of God today.

We are not a “progressive” church that downplays the role of Jesus.
We respond to the Jesus we meet in scripture who calls us to take up our own crosses and follow in the steps of his life, message, and vision, not just his death. 

We are not a “progressive” church that does not believe in eternal salvation.
We recognize that salvation is also an experience in the here and now through our participation in God’s work toward a world of more equality, compassion, and peace.

We are not a “progressive” church that says whatever way works for you is fine.
We simply recognize that Christianity is our way into the life of God but do not confuse that as being the only way into God who will not be defined by human barriers.

Maybe First Congregational Elgin is the church you’ve been looking for! 

Join us this Sunday for worship, and begin the journey of finding out.

Peace in Christ,

Rev. Dr. Jesse Tanner, Pastor

Families of all sizes, shapes, and hues are welcome and cherished at First Congregational Church. We are a congregation of diverse backgrounds, living in families of various configurations, who hold in common a desire to see our children flourish as they discover a friend in Jesus.

Whether your child is teddy bear clutching, or gregarious, a boy who likes princess movies, or a girl who plays football, he or she will fit in fine! It is our joy to enfold all children—the fearless, the questioning, the sweet, the anxious, and the huggers—within the circle of God’s unending love.

Our Sunday School program is offered during the 9:30 service on Sunday mornings. All children and families gather together for worship during the first part of the worship service. Worship bags are available in the back of the sanctuary for children to use as they wait for worship to begin.

Parents are encouraged to help their children learn to worship by showing them how to follow along in the bulletin and join in singing the hymns. Just prior to the scripture reading the children are invited to attend their age appropriate Sunday School classes for a biblically based lesson.

Our program invites children to use their intelligence and imagination as they listen to the story, wonder and make meaning for themselves. We seek to nurture a faith in children that will grow with them as they mature.

Our Sunday School program is offered from September through May for newborns – senior high school. During the summer we encourage families to worship together. The nursery is provided year-round for infants – 3year olds.

Coffee Hour & Fellowship

We also have a friendly gathering for coffee and treats immediately following the 9:30 service in Fellowship Hall. Enjoy tasty healthy, and not-so-healthy, treats while you visit and catch up with your new friends.