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
Meet Our Pastor
Doubt. Wonder. Grow. You’re Welcome Here.
Rev. Nancy Bacon believes that faith isn't about having all the answers—it’s about having the courage to ask the big questions. Whether you’re a lifelong seeker, someone who hasn't stepped into a church in years, or someone who isn't even sure what you believe anymore, Nancy is here to walk beside you.
She leads with a rare mix of honesty, humor, and a deep heart for justice. In a world that often feels divided and heavy, Nancy’s goal is to cultivate a space where your doubts are respected, your wonder is encouraged, and your "politics of love" can actually make a difference in our Bakersfield community.
If you’re looking for a place where you don’t have to check your brain or your heart at the door, you’ve found it.
"Nancy makes you feel like you've finally found a seat at the table, regardless of where you've been." — Community Member
A Soul Reset:
Walking the Way of Love
in a Loud World
From Root to Road: Entering "The Long Walk"
Day 34 of our 40-Day Soul Reset
We’ve spent the last month Deepening the Root. If you’ve been following along since Ash Wednesday, you know we’ve been doing the hard, internal work of staying anchored while the world feels like a whirlwind.
But roots aren't meant to stay in the dirt forever. They are meant to give us the strength to stand up and move.
The Shift from "Me" to "We"
This week, we officially enter the final phase of our journey: The Long Walk to Jerusalem.
In the story of Jesus, the first 40 days were spent in total isolation. He was alone, getting his internal world ready. But Day 33 marked a shift. You don’t do all that "soul-work" just to keep it to yourself. You do it so you have the grit to show up for the people around you.
Yesterday, we looked at Ezekiel 37—the "Valley of Dry Bones." It’s a perfect metaphor for how modern life can hollow us out and leave us feeling disconnected. But hope happens when the "rattling" begins—when we stop trying to survive in isolation and start connecting as One Body. What This Means for You Today: "The Long Walk" is the transition from thinking about our values to actually walking them out. It’s moving from "Me" to "We."
Action over Intent: Trading "good thoughts" for tangible help for our neighbors.
Strength in Connection: Refusing to face the "heavy" headlines or personal "dry bones" seasons alone.
Courage in the Noise: Carrying our inner peace into the messy reality of the coming week.
Join the Walk
You don’t have to "catch up" to start. Whether you’ve been here since Day 1 or are just finding us today, the invitation is the same: Take the next step. Follow our daily "Long Walk" prompts on social media for real talk, ancient wisdom, and simple "how-to" actions to strengthen your circle.
"Watch your step, and the road will stretch out smooth before you." (Proverbs 4:26)
You’ll find these daily steps on our
Facebook and Instagram pages!
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.
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.