Children & Youth Caroling Stroll
Sunday, 12/1, 10:30 A
Let’s bring some Christmas cheer to the Pearl Street Mall! Elementary children and youth are starting in worship this Sunday and lighting the Advent candle of Hope. After opening worship by singing the prelude, all children and youth grades K-12 are invited to leave with Anne Martinez to go caroling on Pearl Street. We will be back at 11:30 AM and will be in Plymouth Hall enjoying hot cocoa and apple cider.
Advent Photo a Day 2024 Facebook Group
Experience the wonder of the season through photographic images by joining our Advent Photo a Day 2024 Facebook group. Church members and friends are invited to reflect on the season by sharing photos that are prompted by a daily word drawn from our Advent devotional. Photos can be ones you take yourself or ones you find that connect to with the prompt word for the day. The daily words will be listed in the Facebook group; each day you will receive an invitation to post your photographic contribution. You may also pick up a printed copy of the full list in the Sanctuary narthex. Join the group administered by Phil Braudaway-Bauman here.
Words for the Beginning Gatherings
Sundays, December 8, 15, 22 at 9:15 AM, Standish Room
Tuesdays, 12/3, 12/10, and 12/17 from 6:30 – 8 PM on Zoom
Meeting ID: 889 5093 6783 Passcode: advent
Join Rev. Lianna Campos to consider the Scripture and art in our Advent devotional, reflect on the beginnings and endings experienced now and in Advents past, and support one another in this holy season.
Contact lianna@firstcong.net.
Advent Gift Bags for Children, Youth, and Families
Mason jars, candles, activity cards, and a calendar. As each day unfolds draw a card. Day by day, week by week, prayer by prayer, action by action, count down the Advent calendar days until that holy night when God slips into the world. Also in December, color in a new shape on the calendar containing a daily word to learn and use. Pick up your Advent bag in the back of the Sanctuary.
Words for the Beginning Devotional
Advent marks the beginning of the new year, a time when we prepare for Christ to be born anew in our lives and in the world. This year, we will lift up Words for the Beginning, as we reflect on several questions. What are the words we need to hear as we stand on this threshold? What are the sacred promises of God we can rely on in this time of uncertainty? The daily offerings of art, poetry, and reflection in our Devotional are an invitation to enter more deeply into the Scripture texts and themes of Advent and Christmas. Pick up a print copy at the church or access an electronic version here.
Prayer Books
Each week, during our Season of Prayer, you are invited to pick up a Prayer Booklet of Scripture, prayers, poetry, and art to prompt your reflection and accompany you through the week. If you know of a reading or have a photograph you would like to contribute to this offering of edifying words and beauty, please send it to Chris Braudaway-Bauman at chris@firstcong.net. The booklet is available to you in print form in the narthex of the sanctuary or online here.
Newcomers Coffee
Sunday, 9/29 at 11:45 AM – Heritage Room
Are you new to the First Congregational Church community, looking to find out more, and get better connected? Join us on Sunday, September 29, after 10:30 AM worship to get to know some of ministers and leaders at FCC, ask any questions you may have, learn more about the many ways you can get involved, and if you’re interested, find out how you can join us as a member. Can’t attend this time? Another one is on the calendar on Sunday, November 3. Childcare is available.
Finding Meaning and Purpose in Our Later Years
Sunday, 9/29 from 9:15 – 10:15 AM – Standish Room
Join us for the Ministry of Last Things (MLT) FORUM. Frederick Buechner wrote that “vocation is where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.” In this Forum, we will discuss the importance of finding meaning in our lives in post-retirement and/or when we need to step back. This includes dealing with the grief that life transitions bring. We will discuss how to identify passions and forge new and fresh identities as we age.
A Native American Feast Church Picnic
9/8 at 11:45 AM – Foothills Community Park
Join us after worship for a church picnic of traditional Osage recipes and ingredients, catered by Tocabe American Indian Eatery in Denver. The menu will include Indian fry bread, wild rice, corn and tomato salsas, black and pinto beans, and shredded bison. Vegan and gluten-free options will be available. We’ll meet in the shelter at Foothills Community Park, 800 Cherry Avenue next to the playground. Face painting, balloon animals, good food, and great company!
RJM FORUM: Sand Creek Massacre
Presented by Right Relationship Boulder
Sunday, 9/8 at 9:15 AM – Plymouth Hall
Three representatives from Right Relationship Boulder will provide information about the relationship between Fort Chambers in Boulder and the Sand Creek Massacre. The massacre occurred just months after the founding of our church on the tribal campgrounds near Valmont Butte in 1864. This forum will help us prepare for the Pilgrimage to Southeast Colorado which includes the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site. All are invited.
New Church Website Coming! We Need Your Help!
Sunday, 9/8 – All Morning
Theory One, our website designer, will be on site with us with photographers to capture the images we need to make our new website a fresh and inviting reflection of the vibrancy of our life together and a beautiful expression of our story and the good news of our faith and witness. Please plan to be present. Please wear solid colors or quiet prints on September 8 and help us spread the joy!
Frasier Meadows Event: Water Quality in the West: The Good, The Bad, and The Ridiculous. Wednesday, 8/28 at 7 PM
Our very own Dr. Kirk Nordstrom, a hydro-geochemist (emeritus) with the US Geological Survey whose works covers acid mine drainage, geothermal water chemistry, radioactive waste research, groundwater geochemistry, analytical chemistry, redox species, geochemical modeling, thermodynamic data evaluation, and geomicrobiology, will present a workshop on Water Quality in the West: The Good, The Bad, and The Ridiculous. All are invited.
Surrounding the Burbank Family
with Love and Support
With broken hearts, we pray for Burke and Vivian Burbank and their whole family as they mourn the tragic death of their 29 year old son Daniel last week. The church has established an account to collect funds to send support to them in this time of grief. You may give here. Please note that this contribution is not tax deductible. If you would like to reach out directly to offer your condolences, you may contact the Burbank family at P.O. Bos 654, Keams Canyon, AZ 86034.
Soup Kitchen Volunteers Needed
Sunday, 8/25 – Sign Up Here
Soup Kitchen is August 25, 2024 and we are in need of volunteers for the Second Shift: 11:30am-2:00pm). We will train you on the spot. There is no need to be nervous! Please sign up here as an individual, family or small group or contact me at linda@firstcong.net and I will sign you up. For info contact: Soo Rhee soo.rhee@colorado.edu or linda@firstcong.net
Difficult Conversations – When to Say “When.”
Sunday, 8/25, from 8:45 – 9:45 AM – Standish Room
Join us for the Ministry of Last Things (MLT) FORUM. Families and people like John Elway, RBG and Joe Biden have struggled with decisions or had to encourage decisions that are difficult. How do we know when to let go (if we need to) of something such as a career, the car keys, control of our finances, where to live, etc.? What contributes to the decision-making process? How do we receive family support? How do we help loved ones make decisions and/or how do we graciously accept advice from family members?
Fellowship of the Grape – FOG
Friday, 8/23, from 6 – 8 PM
Come to John and Mailand Edlin’s home to celebrate the end of summer and their 55th wedding anniversary on August 23. Bring your very favorite wine (or beverage) and an appetizer (or just one or the other if you are coming solo) to 766 West Fir Court in Louisville, 6-8 PM. It’s the very green, 4th house on the left (south side). Park in the driveway or in the cul-de-sac. Everyone over 21 is invited, and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided. We look forward to seeing you for a festive evening.
I Wish There Was A Small Group For…
Deadline for New Small Groups Submission is 8/23
Is there a book you’d like to discuss with others? A subject you’d like to tackle? A spiritual practice you’d like to learn more about? A group of folks you would like to ski or hike with? YOU can organize that group! Most of the Small Groups at First Congregational are initiated and organized by members of the congregation. It’s not hard to start a new Small Group; click here for ideas. Deadline for the Fall Catalog is 8/23. Contact Susan Wilkinson for more information.
Community Partner – RISE Against Suicide
8/1- 8/31 – Christmas in August for RISE Against Suicide
Our community partner, RISE Against Suicide, helps youth at risk of suicide by removing the financial and social barriers to treatment, enabling them to find hope and healing. The LGBTQ+ & Allies Ministry, the Mental Health Ministry, and the Board of Missions and Christian Social Action are sponsoring our annual Christmas in August to provide financial support for services as students return to school at a stressful time. Please consider donating to help support our students in the community.
Gathering of Remembrance for JoAnne Bogart
Sunday, 8/11 at 2 PM – LaForet RSVP Below – Carpool Sign-Up by 8/6
Jeff Bogart and his family invite all to gather and remember JoAnne and her ministry to join them at LaForet on Sunday, August 11th at 2 PM.
We will meet at the lower campfire circle (below the Blue Spruce cabin). Dress will be casual; camp attire is appropriate, and you might want to bring an umbrella for shade or rain. Please RSVP to Jeff Bogart if you plan to attend. If you would like to be part of a carpool to the gathering please email linda@firstcong.net before Tuesday, 8/6.
All Ages Vacation Bible School – Starts Sunday!
Sunday, 8/4 – Immediately After Worship – Standish Room
At VBS, children (K-5) will enjoy fun, exciting lessons and games focused on the major themes of the young adult version of the Braiding Sweetgrass during the 10 AM service. After 10 AM worship, adults and youth are invited to join an intergenerational activity, craft, or service project in the Standish Room. All ages will have lunch together which is provided. For more info or to reserve your spot contact lianna@firstcong.net. Everyone is invited!
Join Our Pop-Up Choir
Sunday, 8/11 at 9 AM – Choir Room
Come and be a part of our special Sunday morning POP-UP Choir! All singers are welcome, regardless of experience. We will learn a beautiful anthem to perform during the service. No prior singing experience is necessary—just bring your enthusiasm and love for music. We look forward to seeing you there!
Brunch Church
Sunday, 8/11, 10 AM – Plymouth Hall
Join us for a special all ages worship service celebrating God’s gifts of creation and the generosity of the earth. Strawberry shortcake is on the menu! Gluten free and dairy free options will be available. Can you help with set-up, baking, serving, or clean-up? Sign-up here!
Memorial for Leona Stone
Sunday, 7/28 at 1:30 PM – Sanctuary and Plymouth Hall
We extend our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Leona Stone, as Leona died on June 29, 2024. There will be a memorial service held at First Congregational Church on Sunday, July 28, at 1:30 PM with a reception to follow. All are welcome.
Take Me Out to the Ballpark!
Friday, 8/9 at 6:40 PM – Coors Field Denver
The Church is sponsoring a trip to Coors Field in Denver to see a Colorado Rockies baseball game on Friday, August 9 at 6:40 PM vs. the Atlanta Braves. Tickets are $17 each and must be reserved and prepaid thru Jane Strohm; jestrohm@comcast.net or 303.717.5432. Get your tickets now so you can sit with us! Tickets will go fast!
Braiding Sweetgrass Discussion & Salad Potluck
Wednesdays at 5:30 PM – 7/24 and 8/14 – Plaza
Covering just one chapter or short story per meeting, Kevin Pettit, Sarah Schulte, and Lianna Campos will lead discussions on the book Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. For July 24th, we will be talking about chapter 6: Learning the Grammar of Animacy. All are invited to join and bring a salad dish to share!
Mission Partner – Wildlands Restoration Volunteers Opportunity (WRV)
Tuesday, 7/23 10 AM – 2 PM – Longmont “Cooks in the Kitchen”
Join our mission partner Wildlands Restoration Volunteers (WRV) Event “Cooks in the Kitchen” to help prepare meals that will later be consumed in the field as the teams work this summer. There are five spots available to members and friends of First Cong. To participate contact Jill von Trebra or call/text 708-227-4437 to be put on the list. WRV is a Colorado nonprofit 501(c)(3) that organizes thousands of volunteers each year to complete more than 150 conservation projects throughout Colorado.
Retreat: Spiritual Support for Grief
Tuesday, 7/23, 10 AM – 3 PM – Bill Forbes’s Home, Sugarloaf Mountain
Join Bill Forbes and Jean Manifesto for a five-hour contemplative retreat where those experiencing loss can come together, walk a labyrinth, share common experiences and support one another in our journey. The loss can be recent, in the near or distant past, an anticipated loss for those supporting a loved one, or a loss of another sort such as loss of health or home. For more details and/or to register click here or email Linda at linda@firstcong.net
Mindful Works Pop-Up Store
Sunday, 7/14 – Plymouth Hall Following Worship
Our ministry partner Mindful Works and members of the FCC Mindful Works Ministry have designed and created a WISE Parament for WISE churches in the UCC. Please visit the Mindful Works Pop-Up Store in Plymouth Hall to view and purchase some of their goods. Mindful Works is a social enterprise providing empowering work to individuals striving to overcome obstacles due to mental health challenges.
For more information go to https://mindful-works.org
Memorial Service for Helene Willis
7/1 at 2:30 PM – Sanctuary
Helene Willis was a treasured member of First Congregational Church since 1997. She died on Thursday, June 13 at the age of 91. A Service in Memory and Thanksgiving for her life will be held on Monday, July 1 in the Sanctuary. A reception in the Standish and Heritage Rooms will follow. We extend our deepest sympathy to Helene’s husband Roe, to their children and grandchildren as we place Helene in God’s eternal care.
Backpack School Supply Drive for Family Learning Center (FLC)
Sundays, 6/30, 7/7 & 7/14 – Donations Accepted in the Link
Help the kids of Boulder’s Family Learning Center get a good start for the new school year! From June 30-July 14 we will be collecting school supplies like notebooks, pencils, pens, crayons, markers and more to fill backpacks for students. You can view the full list of school supplies online here. Please write a check to First Congregational Church with “Backpacks” in the memo, or give electronically here.
Memorial Service for Julian Rush
Saturday, 6/29, 11 AM – Boulder First United Methodist Church
Rev. Julian Rush, the composer of one of our favorite hymns, In the Midst of New Dimensions, died last November in Arizona. A Service of Thanksgiving for his life will be held at Boulder First United Methodist Church, 1421 Spruce Street, on Saturday, June 29, at 11:00 AM. We remember with great joy the impact of his life and ministry on church and society. He pioneered inclusiveness in United Methodism and beyond, and saved countless lives through his service to the Colorado AIDS project. His music will live forever, as will his legacy of love.
Bird Walk at White Rocks/South Teller Farm Trailhead
Saturday, 6/29, 6:30 to 9:30 AM
Join Steve Frye, church member and Ringmaster of the Flying Circus Birders, to enjoy and explore the natural history of Boulder County. All ages are welcome. The walk is gentle, but it will cover two to three miles. Come dressed for the weather conditions. Bring optics if you have them. Please leave the dogs at home, and plan to arrive ready to go promptly at 6:30 . White Rocks/ Teller Farm. Click here for location. Contact: Chris Braudaway-Bauman chris@firstcong.net
First Cong Booth at Boulder Pride – Volunteer!
Sunday, June 30, 2024, 11:30a-5:00p Centennial Park
In 1987 First Cong became an Open and Affirming Congregation, meaning we invite and affirm our LGBTQ+ siblings into membership and leadership. To live into that covenant, we invite everyone to participate in Boulder PRIDE on June 30. We need volunteers to help host and welcome people at our booth AND we need 600 frozen freezer pops. Sign up for both in the Link after worship or email Carmen Valdes valdesc@hotmail.com to become part of the First Cong PRIDE Booth Team.
Soup Kitchen Volunteers – Urgent Need
Sunday, 6/23 – Sign-Up Here
Soup Kitchen is Sunday, June 23 and we are in urgent need of volunteers for both shifts (First Shift: 9 – 11:30 AM and Second Shift: 11:30 AM – 2 PM). We will train you on the spot. There is no need to be nervous! Please sign up here as an individual, family or small group or contact me at linda@firstcong.net and I will sign you up. For info contact: Soo Rhee soo.rhee@colorado.edu
Join Our POP-UP Choir
Sunday, June 23 at 9 AM
Come and be a part of our special Sunday morning POP-UP Choir! All singers are welcome, regardless of experience. We will learn a beautiful anthem to perform during the service. No prior singing experience is necessary—just bring your enthusiasm and love for music. We look forward to seeing you there!
Women’s Retreat 2024
Friday to Sunday, 8/30 – 9/1 – Highlands Retreat Center, Allenspark
As we enter the fall, we’ll take a weekend to reflect on friendship, its gifts, its necessity, how friends enfold us in times of deepest joy and keenest sorrow, and how we help each other grow and thrive. Join us for a time of sharing, connecting, and nurturing our faith and friendships together. Our time together begins with dinner on Friday and concludes mid-morning on Sunday. Can’t attend for the whole weekend? A Saturday only option is available. Register by Tuesday, August 13.
A Prayerful Patriotism
Sunday 7/7, 9:30 AM Worship – Sanctuary and Online
Join us for worship on Sunday, July 7, as we welcome Congressman Joe Neguse as our preacher for the morning. Elected to his first term in November 2018, he became the first Black Member of Congress in Colorado history, representing Colorado’s 2nd District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Music by our Easter Brass Quintet and Chancel Choir. Following worship, Former U.S. Representative and beloved church member David Skaggs will join Joe Neguse for a community conversation. Musical Prelude at 9:15 AM. Invite friends and neighbors.
All Church Picnic
Sunday, 6/23 Following 10:00 AM Worship Service
Foothills Community Park, 800 Cherry Ave. Boulder
Following worship on Sunday, 6/23, join First Cong folks at Foothills Community Park. Our Board of Community Life will provide pulled BBQ sandwiches, salads including vegan options, baked beans, dessert and beverages. All are welcome and warmly encouraged to join us for food, fellowship, games, and a playground for the kids. Hope to see you there under the picnic shelters!
Heartsaver First Aid CPR and AED Training
Wednesdays, 6/12 or 7/17, 6 to 8 PM – Standish Room and Online
Join Kelly McDevitt from First Cong’s Safety Team for this important emergency training, which include three hours of online learning and two hours of hands on skills. This American Heart Association course trains participants to provide first aid, CPR, and use an automated external defibrillator (AED) in a safe, timely, and effective manner. There is a $20 fee for the online learning component, but the rest is a gift to us from Kelly McDevitt. Sign up to participate on 6/12 here or 7/17 here.
Dementia Man: An Existential Journey
Saturday, 6/8 or Monday 6/10 at 7 PM – Frasier Meadows
Ministry of Last Things (MLT) present, Dementia Man, An Existential Journey (dementiaman.com) is the award-winning autobiographical story of a man who faces his diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease by actor and playwright Samuel A. Simon. After the show there will be a panel discussion and reception. This event sponsored by BRC’s Alzheimer/Dementia Initiative, and co-sponsored by Frasier Meadows and by the Alzheimer’s Association Colorado Chapter. Seats are limited so reserve your seat HERE. Frasier Meadows, 350 Ponca Place, Boulder.
National Gun Violence Awareness Day Is June 7
Wear Orange June 7–9!
National Gun Violence Awareness Day is June 7. June 7-9 is a weekend when we honor the lives of people in the United States affected by gun violence. Because orange symbolizes the value of each person’s life, we wear it to call an end to gun violence. Please join us that weekend with a scarf, pin or other orange item. There will be virtual and in-person events across the nation. Boulder Moms Demand Action is holding an event on Sunday, June 9. Check their website for more information.
Community Table – Volunteers Needed to Host
Weekly Starting Tonight, Friday, 5/31
Beginning this week, FCC is partnering with Bridge House and other Pine Street churches to provide weekday evening meals to Boulder’s unhoused community. Tonight, and continuing every Friday from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM, it will be our turn. Bridge House will cater the meal every week and take care of the set up and clean-up. Starting on the second Friday in June, we will be signing up an FCC host for every Friday to receive our guests with your good cheer and hospitality. To volunteer Sign Up here. For more info contact linda@firstcong.net
Arts Camp and Musical
Sunday, 6/9, 10 AM Worship – Sanctuary
From June 2 to June 8, our elementary children and middle school youth will be away at our annual Arts Camp. On Sunday, June 9, they will lead us in worship. This year’s production, What’s Up, Zak? is an imaginative retelling through drama and music of the stories of Zacchaeus the tax collector and Bartimaeus, the blind beggar, from Luke’s Gospel, and how their lives are change by encounters with Jesus. The Arts Camp Musical is always highlight of the church year! Don’t miss it!
FCC Get Out the Vote 2024 Campaign
Sunday, 5/26 Immediately Following Worship – The Link
Join the FCC Social Justice Ministries on Sunday, May 26, after worship during Coffee Hour in the Link to continue our Get Out the Vote (GOTV) campaign. Throughout the summer, we will be working with non-partisan organizations to write letters and postcards to encourage low-propensity voters to vote in November. There will be a table in the Link to train you, provide space to write or give you packets to check out and write at home. Contact Caitlin Smith (csmitty12@gmail.com)
June 2025 Sweden Choir Tour Info Meeting
Sunday, 5/26, Following Worship – Sanctuary
FCC Chancel Choir plus supporters are planning a concert tour to Sweden for mid-June, 2025. Twelve days of traveling around cities, countryside, visiting historical and cultural sites. For more information, come to our initial meeting in the sanctuary, or email Kajsa at kajsa@firstcong.net for more information.
Fellowship of the Grape (FOG)
Friday, 5/24, from 6–8 PM – 905 Rainlilly Lane, Boulder
FOG will convene for its May meeting on Friday, May 24th 6-8PM at Roy and Laura McCutchen’s home, 905 Rainlilly Lane, Boulder. With Memorial Day imminent, please share a wine that brings back memories. Couples please bring an appetizer and a bottle of wine; singles may bring either. Come meet new friends and socialize with those you know well.
Intercambio Community Conversations
May 30 6:30-8:00 PM – RSVP by May 24
Join us for Intercambio’s upcoming Community Conversations on May 30, 6:30-8:00 PM, at their Longmont office (1715 Iron Horse Dr.). This unique event fosters language skills, confidence, and life-changing connections for English as a second language speakers. Five spots are reserved – RSVP by 5/24 to Jill at vontrebj@comcast.net. For inquiries, contact Irene at irene@intercambio.org or 970-670-0145. Explore more at intercambio.org.
LGBTQ+ and Allies Ministry Lunch
Sunday, 5/19 – from 11:15 AM – 1 PM
On the third Sunday of each month immediately following the worship service LGBTQIA+ Persons and Allies gather for food, fun and fellowship. Each person is responsible to bring their own lunch and drink. You can bring a snack to share if you like. If you would like more information please contact linda@firstcong.net. Please join us!
Welcoming New Members
Sunday, 5/19 – During Worship
We invite you to jump in, roll up your sleeves, and enter deeply into the life and ministry of First Congregational Church. We are receiving new members at 10:30 AM worship. If you would like to join us, please contact Julie Griffitts julie@firstcong.net
FORUM: Shakespeare, Youth, and Violence Prevention
Sunday, 5/19 at 8:45 AM – Standish Room
The Gun Violence Prevention (GVP) Ministry invites youth, parents, and other Shakespeare lovers to a forum focused on how Shakespeare can be used to teach us how to deal with conflict resolution. Dr. Amanda Giguere, Director of Outreach of the Colorado Shakespeare Festival, will lead the discussion Childcare will be provided. For more information contact Carol Young
E-Council for Lianna Campos
Saturday, 5/18 at 11 AM – Zoom
Lianna will have her ecclesiastical council on zoom. This is a final step
in the ordination process for the United Church of Christ, and will feature Lianna talking about her theology and church practices, and having general conversation about her faith and call journey. Members of the Southeast Association of the Indiana-Kentucky conference will then vote on if Lianna should be ordained! Lianna would love for you to be there on Zoom for this important step in her journey. You can read Lianna’s paper here. Meeting ID: 926 449 4206 Passcode: 7171
FCC Get Out the Vote 2024 Campaign
Sunday, 5/12 – Immediately After 10:30 AM Worship Service
Join the FCC Social Justice Ministries on Sunday, May 12, after worship during Coffee Hour to continue our Get Out the Vote campaign. Throughout the summer, we will be working with non-partisan organizations to write letters and postcards to encourage low-propensity voters to vote in November. There will be a table in Plymouth Hall to train you, provide space to write or give you packets to check out and write at home. Contact Caitlin Smith
Church Yard and Garden Clean-Up
Saturday, 5/18 from 9 – Noon
The Facilities Committee invites you to join us for a Church yard and garden clean-up at First Congregational on Saturday, May 18, from 9 AM to Noon. Wear gloves and grubby clothes. All ages welcome! We need help spreading at least 6 yards of mulch. Bring wheelbarrows, shovels, rakes, and forks. Coffee and snacks will be provided. See you there!
Cupcakes for Mother’s Day from Mindful Works
Sunday, 5/12 Order in the Link Before Church or at Coffee Hour
Support our mission partner Mindful Works as they sell cupcakes for Mother’s Day! You can order your cupcakes Sunday, 5/12 in the Link before the service or at Coffee Hour in Plymouth Hall after the worship service. Cupcakes can be picked up on Thursday, 5/16 at Mindful Works. Mindful Works is a social enterprise providing empowering work to individuals striving to overcome obstacles due to mental health challenges.
A New Floor for Plymouth Hall
Vote for Your Favorite Sample After Worship
This summer, we’ll be replacing the floor in Plymouth Hall. During Coffee Hour following 10:30 am Worship this Sunday, floor samples will be available for you to view and vote for your favorite. The Facilities Committee will supply the ballots.
Newcomers Coffee
Sunday, 5/5 – 11:45 AM, Heritage Room
Are you new to the First Congregational Church community? Looking to find out more and get better connected? Join us on Sunday, May 5, after 10:30 AM worship to get to know some of ministers and leaders at FCC, ask any questions you may have, and learn more about the many ways you can get involved. We will be receiving new members during worship on Pentecost Sunday, May 19.
FCC Get Out the Vote 2024 Campaign
First Event: 5/5 – Immediately Following 10:30 AM Worship Service
Love your neighbor by making sure their voice is heard! Join the FCC Social Justice Ministries on Sunday, May 5, after the service to kick off our Get Out The Vote campaign. Throughout the summer, we will be working with non-partisan organizations to write letters and postcards to encourage low-propensity voters to vote in November. We will train you on the spot. Contact Laura Riihimaki.
Bible Sunday
Sunday, May 5 at 10:30 AM Worship – Sanctuary
We will be presenting our kindergarteners and third graders with age-appropriate Bibles. We are so excited to put the Word of God into the hands of our young disciples and want to make sure that everyone is included! Do you have a kindergartener or third grader in your family to whom you would like to give a Bible? They don’t have to attend FCC to have their Bible blessed here! Do you have a student that did not receive a Bible in kindergarten or third grade from First Congregational? Please let Lianna know at your earliest convenience at lianna@firstcong.net.
CAT Forum – Climate Change: Crisis, Grief & Hope
Sunday, May 5 at 9:15 AM Standish Room
Join Climate Action Team (CAT) for Climate Change: Crisis, Grief and Hope, an interactive discussion on Climate Change. Together we will share questions and concerns we have about climate change, take time to grieve what is happening to creation, provide hope through actions around the world, and provide you with an opportunity for action with CAT so you too can be encouraged. Join us! For more info contact Caitlin Smith.
Youth Group Trampoline Party
Sunday, 5/5 from 3 – 5 PM
All middle and high school youth are invited for two hours of trampoline fun at Get Air Trampoline Park, 2251 Ken Pratt Boulevard, Longmont. Drop off at 3 PM and Pick up at 5 PM at the Park. No charge to enter, but parental signature on the waiver is required. Waivers can be filled out when dropping off on May 5th or online with the link above. Bring a water bottle. We’ll provide some snacks, but bring money if you’d like more. Let’s Bounce!
Growing Gardens Spring Plant Sale
May, 4–5 – 1630 Hawthorn Avenue, Boulder
Board of Missions & Christian Social Action (BOMCSA) invites you to purchase your garden plants from our mission partner, Growing Gardens, whose mission is to enrich the lives of our community through regenerative urban agriculture. Plant sales run from 9 AM – 4 PM the following dates in May 4-5, 11-12, 18-19. For more information visit. For more info contact Jill von Trebra.
Highway 36 Clean-Up
Saturday, 5/4
FCC adopt-a-Highway Spring Clean-Up is scheduled on May 4 from
9 to 11 AM. Vests and bags are provided. Bring your own gloves, and it
is recommended to wear long pants and closed toe shoes. Meet on Left Hand Canyon Dr. adjacent to the Green Briar Inn on Route 36. Many hands make light work and it’s fun! Plenty of room away from the highway for clean up activity, and the bicyclists shout out their appreciation. Bagels and coffee provided at 8:45 AM. Helpful if you RSVP to allison_hamm@yahoo.com but not required.
Hymn Sing with Kajsa Teitelbaum
Tuesday, 4/30, from 12:15 – 1:15 PM First Cong Sanctuary
Join us for a Hymn Sing with Kajsa Teitelbaum on Tuesday, April 30
from 12:15 – 1:15 PM hosted by the Women’s Spirituality Group. EVERYONE is welcome to attend and the more voices there are, the more inspiration and encouragement we will receive! Please invite your neighbors and friends to join us! Contact linda@firstcong.net
Spring Food Drive – Donate Starting Today!
Look for Lists of Needed Items in the Red Wagon
Join FCC’s Spring Food Drive to help your neighbors in need. Collections run through May 3 to donate to local food pantries run by BCAP (Boulder County AIDS Project) and EFAA (Emergency Family Assistance Assoc): EFAA’s list of needs is here and BCAP’s here. Drop donations in the little red wagon in church on Sunday or contact your neighborhood leader to deliver your donation: Bob Matthias, SE Boulder; Roy McCutchen, North Boulder; Bob Patoff, Lafayette/Louisville; Kristen Aldretti, Gunbarrel/Heatherwood; and Phil Braudaway-Bauman, Longmont/Niwot. Questions? Contact Don Reed, Drive Leader.
Pick A Party Fundraiser – Sign-Up Sunday
For High School Pilgrimage – Sunday, 4/28
Go on a Geocaching treasure hunt and picnic, enjoy a BBB evening (Board Games and Bourbon with Bob and Amanda Brown) play Dungeons and Dragons with Lianna Campos, enjoy a French dinner or Indian food, or Paella. Look for the table in the Link, sign up to claim your spot, and help our High School Youth raise funds for their May Pilgrimage to Birmingham and Montgomery. Spaces are limited, so don’t miss your chance to join the fun!
Forum: Mental Health Ministry “Hero’s Journey”
Sunday, 4/28 at 9:15 AM – Standish Room
On April 28th, JoAnn Burton will present a forum describing Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey. As we face personal and societal challenges throughout the year, Campbell’s concepts can provide us a framework that helps us articulate, understand, and guide our journeys. Living our Hero’s Journey can be humanizing, affirming, and empowering! We’re all familiar with stories that illustrate the Hero’s Journey from Odysseus to Barbie, this is a chance to see how we can engage in our journey. For more info contact anne.weiher@gmail.com
Visit the History Colorado Center with RJM
Saturday, 4/27 at 10 AM – 1200 N. Broadway, Denver
Join the Racial Justice Ministry on Sat, 4/27 for a visit to the History Colorado Center to experience exhibits on the Sand Creek Massacre and the Amache Japanese Internment Camp, which will help prepare us for a pilgrimage to the actual sites in SE Colorado on October 19-20. Meet at 10 AM in the lobby of the History Colorado Center; admission $15/adults with 18 and under free. To carpool or offer rides, please text Karen Hoover @ 303-808-6554 by 4/25.
Fellowship of the Grape (FOG)
Tonight, at 6 PM – 287 Pearl Street in Boulder
Our April FOG meeting is tonight, Friday the 26th from 6 – 8 PM, hosted by Louisa Young. Having just traveled to Seattle, she is asking for wines from the State of Washington. Also, if you would care to bring appetizers with the same derivation, (fish, fresh fruits and vegetables), it would be much appreciated. Couples please bring a bottle of wine and an appetizer. Singles may bring either. Non-alcoholic beverages will be provided. Parking is very limited in her cul de sac. Carpooling would be greatly advised.
Youth and Young Adult Pilgrimage to Montgomery
May 28-31, Tuesday – Friday – Orientation on Zoom, Tuesday, 4/2, 7 PM
All high school youth and college age adults are invited to join Sam Bauman and Libby Black on a racial justice pilgrimage to Montgomery, Alabama. This learning and community building experience, just after Memorial Day, is this year’s alternative to our traditional youth mission trip. The itinerary, 4 days and 3 nights, includes visits to The Legacy Museum and The National Monument for Peace and Justice, as well local food and a fun recreational activity. Please complete this short formby April 1, and attend the Zoom on Tuesday, April 2 at 7:00 PM. Questions? Contact Sam Bauman Zoom Meeting ID: 815 2814 5498