“In the beginning the Word already existed; the Word was with God, and the Word was God. From the very beginning the Word was with God. Through him God made all things; not one thing in all creation was made without him. The Word was the source of life, and this life brought light to people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has never put it out.”

As we begin a new year, we also begin a new chapter in the lives of two churches. 2024 marks the 60th Anniversary of Faith United Church of Christ, and the 185th

Anniversary of First Christian Church. These are huge milestones in the life of a church. Each has deep rooted traditions—both in their respective denominations, as well as their individual congregations. Both have been a beacon of light to their communities.

While they are everything they have needed to be individually, together they will be stronger. Together, these churches will shine brighter, love more, and will be better able to serve God and their community.

We are always sad when one era ends, but the end of an era brings new life, and our God is in the business of New Life, especially when and where we least expect it.

Two years ago, neither Faith nor First knew where the future would lead us. We were still dealing with a global pandemic, so our sights were not on creating a new church. But two years later, here we are, two separate churches from two different denominations growing into one church who will hold roots in both denominations. Two beacons becoming one.

As a pastor, this wasn’t even on my radar—for any time in my life. But then again, very little of what I have done has been what I pictured or expected. And here’s the surprise—every single moment has been better than anything I could have planned on my own. God’s plans for our lives, if we remain open to them, are amazing and wonderful, albeit really hard at times.

Dissolving these two loving congregations will be difficult. We are each losing a part of our history, or story, our heart. But, just as God has promised, the new life that springs forth from the old will be even better than we can begin to imagine!

Faith First Community Church is a blessing, and it is a result of everyone’s hard, faithful, and holy work. After the first of the year, we will hold a vigil of dissolution, allowing us space to mourn and grieve. Then, we will hold a celebration of the beginning of Faith First Community Church. Please watch for details after the first of the year. (And if you are interested in helping plan either of those events, I would be very grateful! Just let me know.)

For now, pray for our new church; pray for us, her people; and pray for the community in which she is part.

Soon we will call ourselves by our new name, and yes, I am a little nervous. But even more than that, I am very excited, and beyond grateful. Thank you to everyone for all you have done so far. We have a long way to go, but we are taking one step at a time, and before we know it, God’s new creation will be celebrating milestones of her own!

Happy New Year!

Always Peace,
Pastor Heidi