Take Action Today
At First Congregational we express God’s love by sharing our time and talents. We serve our neighbors in need, amplify the voice of marginalized groups and care for our church and community. There are a number of ways you can get involved and make a difference in our community and world. See below for ways you can take action today.
Loving Our Neighbor
Jesus calls us to love our neighbor as ourselves. We put this Golden Rule into practice in a myriad of ways. First Congregation hosts our unhoused neighbors during the winter months as part of the Evanston Overnight Shelter. On Fridays we serve lunch in our Community Center to anyone who is hungry and seeking human connection. We provide meals to the residents of the Margarita Inn through Connections for the homeless and participate in the annual diaper drive for families in need.
The First Congregational Community Center is the home of Family Promise, an organization that helps families experiencing homelessness. Mudlark Youth Theater is based in our Community Center and puts on shows and programs for young actors. Chiaravalle Montessori School uses our education wing for its middle school classes. Our connections to the Evanston community are deep and lasting. To find a way to serve click HERE!
Advancing Justice
At First Congregational we see ourselves as agents of change, called to transform society toward greater justice and mercy. We are an Open and Affirming church that affirms the dignity of all gender identities and sexual expressions. We stand with the LGBTQ+ community to fight discrimination and demonstrate the expanse of God’s love for trans kids and queer folk.
First Congregational is an anti-racist church active in the movement for reparations. In 2023, we made an historic payment to the Evanston Community Reparations Fund and Pastor Jason is a frequent speaker on the role faith communities can play in the fight against racism.
Our congregation is an immigrant welcoming community and extends an invitation to community to people of every race and nation. We advocate for fair and just immigration policies and lend material support to new arrivals to our nation.
There are many other issues that command the attention of our members and if you are interested in advancing justice and changing structures, please click HERE!
Serving the Church
A church like First Congregational is only as good as the people who participate in its life and mission. At First Congregational there are a number of ways to show up and serve this community in Christ. We welcome people who would like to sing in the choir, teach Sunday School, make a banana bread for refreshments, or serve as an usher or reader on Sunday mornings. There are many ways to enter and serve this church. Click HERE to send a message indicating your interest.