Looking for a church where you can truly belong?
Welcome to
First Congregational Church of Bakersfield
A progressive, open & affirming congregation of the UCC
Real people. Real questions. Real love
What to Expect
When You Visit
Not sure what it’ll be like walking into a new church? We get it. Whether it’s been a while, or you’ve never stepped into a church before, you're welcome here.
Dress however you’re comfortable
Some wear their Sunday best, others wear jeans. Just be you.You won’t be put on the spot
We’ll greet you, not spotlight you.Come with doubts or strong faith—or both
You don’t need to have it all figured out.The service is thoughtful and rooted in tradition
But the message is always for today.We livestream every service
Join from home on YouTube or catch the replay later.Stick around after
For coffee and community.
👉 Got more questions? Visit our FAQ
Ministries That Matter
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Food Pantry
We provide free groceries every Wednesday to anyone in need—no questions asked.
You can support this ministry by donating food, giving financially, or helping pack and distribute bags.
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The HOPE Project
On the first Sunday of each month, we pack and deliver care bags and PB&J lunches to neighbors living without shelter.
You can help by donating supplies, preparing bags, or joining our outreach team after worship.
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Neighborhood Café - FREE Community Meal
Every third Thursday, we host a free community dinner in Plymouth Hall—open to all, no strings attached.
You’re invited to volunteer as a greeter, server, or just help us create a welcoming space for our neighbors.
Meet Our Pastor
Doubt. Wonder. Grow. You’re Welcome Here.
Rev. Nancy Bacon leads with love, honesty, and a heart for justice. Whether you’re new to faith, returning after a long time away, or asking big questions—we’re here to welcome you.
“FCC isn’t just open-minded. It’s open-hearted.”
“I felt accepted before I said a word.”
A Soul Reset:
Walking the Way of Love
in a Loud World
We are currently in the heart of Lent—a 40-day journey of honesty, grit, and transformation.
If you’ve been following along since Ash Wednesday, you know this hasn't been a typical "give up chocolate" kind of season. If you’re just finding us today, you are exactly where you need to be.
The world feels heavy right now. Between rising global conflicts and the everyday stress of life in Bakersfield, it’s easy to let fear take the wheel. Our Pastor, Rev. Nancy Bacon, reminds us that Lent isn't about escaping reality—it’s about having the guts to face it with a "Politics of Love." We are learning to trade our anxiety for empathy and our silence for a pursuit of justice that actually helps our neighbors.
What This Journey Looks Like Now
We are nearly two weeks into our 40-Day Soul Reset, and the focus has shifted from "cutting through the noise" to Faith in Action. Whether you’ve been in church your whole life or aren't sure what you believe, this path is for you. Every day on our social media, we are practicing:
Real Talk: Honest reflections on the headlines, gas prices, and the struggle to stay grounded.
Ancient Wisdom: Verses from the journey of Jesus that speak directly to our modern, messy lives.
The "How-To": One small, direct way to be a force for good and a blessing to your circle.
Join the Movement Today
You don’t have to "catch up" to start. The invitation of Jesus is always found in the present moment. Today, as you navigate the news and the demands of the week, we invite you to pause and ask:
"From where will my help come? How can I be the help someone else is looking for today?"
Let’s keep walking. Let’s see how far love can take us when we refuse to be driven by fear.
You’ll find these daily steps on our
Facebook and Instagram pages!
Take the Next Step at FCC Bakersfield
Whether you're new, returning, or ready to dive deeper—there’s a next step waiting for you.
News from the United Church of Christ
See how the wider UCC is showing up for
justice, peace, and community across the country.
Make A Difference
Every gift helps us feed, serve, and welcome our neighbors.