Faith Formation Classes
Faith Formation is the cornerstone of our community. At First Congregational UCC we seek to nurture a "vibrant faith" in all members and foster a culture of lifelong faith formation. Vibrant faith is a set of core values that guide us to live a fulfilling Christian life by seeking spiritual growth, practicing our faith, integrating Christian faith into daily life, living a life of caring service, reaching out to others, exercising moral integrity, speaking about our faith with confidence, and possessing an encouraging spirit.
Faith Construction Classes (For Children & Youth)
On Sundays, during the program year, children in preschool through 5th grade are invited to attend Faith Construction Class. Our younger children (preschool through fifth grade) stay in worship for the first third of the service. After a short children’s sermon, they then go off to Sunday School. These Faith Construction classes are one way of helping our children to build their faith. These classes are facilitated by church volunteers. Each week during Faith Construction class, the Kindergarten through 5th grade students meet with our music teacher. They learn songs, and then are given the opportunity to participate in worship once a month. The preschool and K through 2nd graders may be picked up in their classrooms. The 3rd through 5th graders may be picked up in the music room, which is also under the Community Room.
After Children’s time, the children go to their classes:
- Preschool: under the Community Room
- Kindergarten-Grade 2: under the Community Room
- Grades 3-5: in the Upstairs Classroom
Before worship each Sunday, at 8:45 a.m., there are Sunday School classes for youth in grades six through twelve. Confirmation classes are held for youth in grades eight and nine under the guidance of Reverend Mark. Other adults also serve as mentors to youth during the confirmation experience and offer support and guidance. Youth (grades 6-12) have Faith Construction Classes are held in the Upstairs Classroom and Youth Room. First timers, visitors and friends are always welcome!
United Vacation Bible School June 18th – 22nd
First Congregational Church, Wesley UMC, and Community UMC. This year, we will “Go Deep with God” with Operation Overboard! This link leads people to register participants and volunteers.
Church Camps
The IL Conference of the UCC operates to church camp locations. There are programs for all ages. Click here for the schedule for this summer and fall.
Adult Education (Faith Formation) offerings.
Labyrinth and Spirit - 5/20/12 @ 8:45AM
During our hour together we will explore the mystery of labyrinths past and present. A brief labyrinth history will set the stage for considering ways in which labyrinths can support personal spiritual enrichment in the present. A list of walking labyrinths in the Chicagoland area will be provided as well as an opportunity during the hour to sketch personal finger labyrinths. All are welcome! (More...)
Presenter: Linnea Winquist, MDiv, is a staff chaplain at Good Samaritan Hospital. In addition to her work at the hospital, she enjoys designing and creating meandering, contemporary labyrinths using clay, glass and watercolor mediums. Linnea lives with her three children in Sugar Grove.
Selected resources from previous adult classes are archived here.
I am grateful to be part of this church body because of the love and acceptance I feel from the people around me.
