An Open and Affirming Christian Community

Your Church in Kalamazoo

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And on this rock I will build my church…

Our identity as faithful people is rooted in our practice of hospitality and celebration.  We welcome all to Christ’s table. Our lives are changed through His teachings.  Our faith grows daily through our disciplines of prayer, worship, and joyful service.  We are church that encourages critical thinking, individual creativity, and asking difficult questions.  Together, we are searching for the meaning in God’s Word.  We take the Bible far too seriously to read it literally.
“Christ has broken down the dividing wall between us.” Ephesians 2:14.

Our Purpose

To welcome all at Christ’s table, and to inspire Change through Christ’s teachings. We want to nurture Faith through prayer, worship and joyful service and experience the meaning of God’s Word.

Learn About how we grow

Our Staff

We’re here for you. to help lead, and to serve.

Meet our Staff

How We Govern

The United Church of Christ (UCC) is a progressive, dynamic denomination offering Christ’s extravagant hospitality and welcome to all. We are grounded in Scripture while listening for the “Still Speaking” God.


Learn more about UCCView other area UCC Churches

Our Legacy

Our humble, Pioneer beginnings

First Congregational is a proud member of The United Church of Christ. The year 2010 marked our 175th anniversary celebration, but our congregational roots go back to the Pilgrims who came to the New World in the 1600s seeking freedom to worship God as they chose.

Our windows, passing light

As we enter the nave and look toward the front, the first object that strikes our vision like a sunburst is the Memorial Window blazing with a gem-like iridescence. As we walk toward it and stand beneath its unrivalled splendor, we see the familiar figures of the Gospel story, clothed with majesty, and surrounded by the symbols of our Christian faith and hope.