The Church of the Open Door
FAQ
- What is the United Church of Christ?
- The United Church of Christ (UCC) is a mainline Protestant denomination founded in 1957, the result of a merger between the Congregational/Christian tradition and the Evangelical and Reformed tradition. Basically, it’s a new denomination comprised of old, historical traditions. The United Church of Christ enjoys a rich relationship with many churches, but in particular, the United Methodist Church, the Presbyterian Church (USA), the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA) and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).
- What do we believe?
- We believe in God the Creator, revealed in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and present in the power of the Holy Spirit. We believe the Bible contains the Word of God as interpreted by prophets and apostles. We believe in praising the Lord through worship, preaching the Word, and celebrating the Sacraments. We believe in serving Christ by helping one another in the world, nurturing the gifts and resources entrusted to our care, and sharing our spiritual gifts with the community. We believe in making a financial commitment, practicing Christian disciplines, and seeking new and more faithful ways to serve God and neighbor. We believe in the freedom of faith and practice. We believe in the autonomy of the local church. We believe in ecumenical and interfaith relationships. We believe in welcoming and affirming the diversity of all people – building a world fit for all God’s children.
- How old is First Congregational United Church of Christ?
- First Congregational Church has been in Appleton since 1850.
- How many members are at First Congregational United Church of Christ?
- About 1,600 individuals claim membership in this community of believers.
- How many people attend worship each week?
- Somewhat over 400 people attend worship weekly.
- How many children are in Church School?
- From infant through confirmation, an average of 147 children attend Church School each week.
- When is Church School offered for children?
- We offer Church School for infant through sixth grade at both services on Sunday morning. The Junior High program (7th & 8th) is held on Wednesday evening from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. The Confirmation program for ninth graders meets on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
- Is there childcare?
- We offer childcare for infants and toddlers on Sunday morning at both services.
- Is there a youth program?
- From October to May the middle school youth have a pizza supper on the first Wednesday evening of the month from 6:00 to 6:30 p.m. before religion class. The senior high youth meet on Sunday mornings for fellowship and discussion at 10:30 a.m. Throughout the year, there are mission opportunities and monthly activities for teens.
- What type of worship service do we offer?
- Identical worship services at 8:45 and 10:30 a.m. blend traditional and more contemporary elements that speak to both mind and heart. During the summer months, we meet for one service, at 9:30 a.m., and offer a mid-week service on Wednesday evenings.
- Are services broadcast over the radio?
- The 8:45 a.m. service is broadcast live over the radio on WCHK at 104.3 FM each Sunday. During the summer months, there is a one-week delay for the 8:45 a.m. broadcast of the 9:30 a.m. service.
- How does one become a member of First Congregational Church?
- We offer classes in fall, winter and spring to learn more about First Congregational United Church of Christ and prepare for membership. This helps individuals to make an informed decision about joining the church. We receive new members year ‘round on scheduled Sundays.
For those who cannot attend the classes and others who are interested in membership during times of the year when classes aren't offered, individual meetings with a pastor and the Director for Volunteer Ministries can be scheduled.
If you would like more information or are interested in membership at First Congregational UCC, please call or e-mail Deb Burich [LINK] at the Church Office.
