Who We Are
Over the years, First Congregational United Church of Christ has had a distinctive call as a welcoming and forward thinking church. In many ways, our church has often been ahead of its times. In the 1950s, we became one of the first racially integrated churches in Vancouver. In 1973, we extended a call for Rev. Anne Smith, an ordained female minister, to serve as our associate pastor. And, in 1992, we became the first open and affirming church in Vancouver. Today, the unique calling of our church continues to be seen and felt every Sunday in our inclusiveness, our warm hospitality, and our progressive theological orientation.
Reflective of our unique calling as a congregation is the distinctive architecture of our church. Dedicated in 1961, our church was designed to symbolize a dove. From the beginning, it has stood out as a notable landmark in our community. Like its outer appearance, our sanctuary has also been known for its singular beauty. The 180-foot stained glass skylight that runs the length of the sanctuary has provided our worship services with resplendent lighting. Our church has thus distinguished itself by providing a space that evokes a contemplative and inspiring experience of God’s presence.
Where We Are Going
Our church continues to have a unique calling, and our answer to God’s call is becoming more enlivened and robust. In the past few years, we have experienced a rejuvenated sense of possibility. Our church is witnessing numerous signs of growth and vitality:
• Our worship attendance has risen.
• New members are joining.
• Children crowd the steps during Children’s Time.
• Members are enthusiastically offering their time and talent to ministries.
• Annual stewardship giving has notably increased.
• Charitable giving to outside organizations has also increased.
As our church continues along this exciting course, it seems fitting that we have decided to renovate the physical structure of our church at this time. We have already completed the first stage of renovations by bringing down the cathedral glass from our sanctuary. The next stages of work entail replacing the exterior skylight system, replacing the roof over the sanctuary, and reinstalling the cathedral glass. The estimated costs of these projects are as follows:
1) Replacing the exterior skylight $325,000
2) Replacing the roof $340,000
3) Reinstalling the cathedral glass $120,000
Total Estimated Cost $835,000
How We Will Get There
Through our capital campaign, we have the opportunity to continue answering the unique call God has given to us. The key to successfully answering God’s call can be found in looking to our past. As an old gospel song reminds us, “We’ve come this far by faith.” Our faith has long enabled us to be a beacon and a refuge in our community. As we march into a bright future and raise the funds needed to sustain us, our faith will continue to be our bedrock and our great inspiration.
For our capital campaign leadership, we have assembled the dedication and talent necessary for a successful campaign. To develop our campaign according to the best practices known, we have additionally joined with the services of a consultant from the proven and insightful Resource Services, Inc. We now call on each of you for your thoughtful and generous support. Over the coming months, we ask that you prayerfully consider what contribution you would like to make through our capital campaign for the continued health and vitality of our congregation. Please join us in participating in what promises to be an uplifting journey of faith.