About Us

First Congregational Church, Rochester, is an Open and Affirming local church of the United Church of Christ (not to be confused with Church of Christ, or Church of God in Christ, or Church of God...phew... there's A LOT of Christian denominations out there!) We are a "still speaking" church, believing that God, through our pastors and through careful exegesis of scripture, still speaks to us in our contemporary times - that our 2000 year old Bible is not translated by 2000 year old thinking. Our philosophy is love for all and being a compassionate, Christ-centered, community church. Worship services are typically Sunday mornings at 10 a.m. Child care is provided along with an optional "wiggle room," and children are always welcome to remain in worship, for we value their presence.

First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, Rochester, Michigan welcomes all to our services of worship and into the full life, leadership and ministry of this church.

We are an inclusive community that embraces all people regardless of race, ethnic background, age, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, physical or mental ability, social or economic situation, marital or family status, biblical interpretation or political persuasion. We welcome you in love as Jesus Christ welcomes all of us.

We celebrate that we are all God's beloved children with gifts to share for the just and peaceable reign that God intends. We believe in living out our faith and ministry by loving, learning, giving and serving each other and the world and by being a place for everyone to meet God no matter who we are or where we are on life's journey.

SPIRITUALITY: We pray for the renewing spirit of God in Christ to guide us in heart, mind, soul, and strength. We are aware of how people, places, and events combine with our faith tradition and the Word to communicate God’s message.

RESPECT: We seek to honor all God’s people, to understand the message they have to convey, and to practice good stewardship of all God has entrusted to us.

COMMUNITY: We are a family God has called here and now to share the experience of daily life. We believe it takes a village to raise a child. We believe community extends beyond the church walls into the world around us.

COMPASSION: We let our hearts be moved by those most in need. We embrace, support, and help them. We share our spiritual gifts with all.

JUSTICE: We commit to help one another obtain fair and equal treatment. We advocate for those who have no voice. We seek to be just to all.

LOVE: We strive to be Christ-like, loving God with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength, and loving one another as we love ourselves.