Later worship follows a more traditional approach to worship, with organ music and a full Sanctuary Choir. All believers are invited to participate in communion, as the juice and bread is passed.

Nursery
Led by: Elsabeth Petersen and Amanda Peterson
The nursery provides care on Sunday mornings for infants and toddlers while family members attend worship and classes. These littlest disciples learn about God and stories of the Bible through songs, games, and craft activities. And, there is plenty of time for interactive play.

Tiny Disciples
Led by: Mary Ann Colburn
This class welcomes children ages 3-5. The Tiny Disciples come to know God through Bible stories, craft projects, songs, learning rhymes, games, puppet shows and participating in mission work.

Little Disciples
Led by: Johanna Kennelly Ullman
Children in K-2nd grade attend this class. This age level learns more about God by reading stories of the Bible, singing songs, doing craft projects, playing games, having fun with role-playing and becoming involved in mission work.

Young Disciples
Led by: John Hahn and Patty Clendenin
This class is designed for youth in grades 3-5. Students become better acquainted with God by reading and discussing the Bible, then applying its meanings through mission work.

Worship Activities for Children—Extended Session
Led by: Johanna Kennelly Ullman
Children ages 3-10 are invited to come forward during the Children’s Moment in worship. Children will then join their friends in the Extended Session. Children participate in a variety of activities and crafts related to worship. Older children who attend Children’s Moment are encouraged to remain in worship.

Children's Summer Session
Led by: Johanna Kennelly Ullman
During the summer months (June-August), children ages 3 to 5th grade are combined into one class to participate in a special program.

CYF and CHI RHO
Led by: Chris Jones
Middle and High School aged youth are invited to facilitated discussions focusing on current events and topics of interest. There’s also plenty of time for socializing. Members of CYF and CHI RHO often meet mid-week for community based activities and missions.

Back to top

The Faithseekers
Known for their in-depth study and lively interactive discussions, this member-led class seeks to explore and understand biblically based concepts and incorporate current topics of interest. Adults of all ages are invited to attend and participate.

Logos
Instructors: Ken Petersen and Associate Minister Dale Sawyer
This new class utilizes a thematic approach to the in-depth study of the Bible and will incorporate discussion and opportunities for further self-study. This approach to biblical study is grounded in the conviction that Christians have a religious heritage that finds its origin, continuation, and fulfillment in The Story of the faith and life of God’s people as presented in the Bible.

Adult Forums
Coordinator: Patrick Mann
Approximately once an month, members and visitors have the opportunity to attend and participate in forums covering a wide variety of topics. Forums are held between worship services at 10:00 am in place of regularly scheduled Church School classes. During the summer months, forums are held each Sunday. You can find information about upcoming forums in the Sunday Morning News section of the bulletin and The First Christian—FCC’s bi-monthly newsletter.

Marriage Preparation Classes
This five-week session class is offered to couples planning to be married at First Christian Church. Through discussions and participation couples learn from married couples what to expect after the ceremony.

Back to top

We welcome all people who want to join us in service to God. You may become a member in one of two ways:

• You may transfer membership from another congregation, regardless of denomination. Transfer of membership does not require a letter from your previous church and may be accomplished at any Sunday service.
  
  
• If you have no prior church membership, you may join by affirmation of faith and baptism.

A conference with the minister beforehand is helpful, but not required. If you wish to know more about joining First Christian Church, please contact the church office.

Back to top

FCC's vision statement is "An open community of faith, learning, growing, making a difference through Christ."

First Christian Church is an historic congregation in the heart of the Rose City. Our membership represents the diversity of the surrounding metropolitan area with many members coming from other religious traditions. We believe Jesus Christ is Lord and seek to witness to our faith in a way that speaks to real life situations and offers hope, with worship that is varied in style and opportunity, allowing for diversity of liturgy, music and practice, encouraging openness and acceptance of other persons.

We are committed to a ministry that serves all people regardless of race, color, creed, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital, economic or social status.
We invite others to commitment and participation in the mission and ministry of First Christian Church by:

• Proclaiming the Good News of God's saving grace made known in Jesus Christ;
• Teaching the Word of God through worship, study and fellowship;
• Providing a supportive community, strengthening individuals in their personal lives, faith and witness;
• Helping to meet spiritual, emotional and physical needs through social concern that is non-judgmental and non-sectarian;
• Caring for God's creation of land, water and sky;
• Developing an understanding of world outreach that expresses the spirit of Christ's love for all people;
• Cooperating ecumenically in the common ministry of serving God in and for the world. First Christian Church is an historic congregation in the heart of the Rose City.
  

Back to top

• Twenties & Thirties
  Made up of young adults, both couples and singles, in their twenties and thirties. Quarterly activities include social gatherings, mission projects and outings.
  
  
• Book Group
  All are welcome to join the book group for monthly discussions in an informal setting. Book selections are made by group members.
  
  
• Youth Groups
  Christian Youth Fellowship (CYF) and Chi Rho youth meet weekly for discussions, service projects, and fun activities. CYF includes youth in high school, grades 9-12. Chi Rho is open to youth in middle school, grades 6-8. Youth also have the opportunity to participate in regional activities through the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Oregon, including weekend retreats and summer camps.
  
  
• Joyful Noise and Sanctuary Choir
  If you enjoy singing, consider joining one of FCC’s choirs. The Joyful Noise performs at 9:00 am Sunday worship and features contemporary music. Rehearsal is Thursdays at 6:30 pm.
  

  The Sanctuary Choir performs more traditional choral music during the 11:00 am Sunday worship. Rehearsal is Thursday at 7:30 pm.
  

• CW/CMF
  Christian Women’s /Christian Men’s Fellowship (CW/CMF) has been a long-standing tradition within First Christian. Smaller groups meet the second Tuesday of each month and then join together for a monthly general meeting the fourth Wednesday of each month. Group members participate in fellowship, discussions, service, and coordinating the annual church bazaar.
  
  
• Sew and Sews
  Members sew quilts, lap robes, and clothes for teddy bears, which are then donated to domestic violence shelters and local hospitals.
  
  
• Men’s Breakfast
  Men from the congregation meet for breakfast at a local restaurant every Friday at 7:00 am.
  
  
• Covenant Group
  This group sends birthday cards to church members, provides outreach to shut-ins, participate in bible studies and service projects.
  
  
• Bus Trips
  Bus trips are open to everyone. Day-trips to various local destinations are made throughout the summer and fall months.