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

See What We’re About

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.

Two members greeting each other inside Plymouth Hall”
Church members smiling at outdoor gathering”

👉 Got more questions? Visit our FAQ

Plan Your Visit

The Installation of
Rev. Nancy Bacon
as our Senior Pastor!

Join Us for a Historic Celebration!

A Weekend of Celebration!
We are overjoyed to formally install Rev. Nancy Bacon as our Senior Pastor! This weekend marks a historic milestone for First Congregational Church of Bakersfield, and we want you to be part of the joy.

Rev. Nancy brings a rare combination of theological depth and relational wisdom to our pulpit. As an ordained UCC minister, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and leader of the nonprofit Aid Africa, her ministry is a beautiful reflection of our values: a faith that listens, welcomes, and grows.

Schedule of Events:

  • The Installation Service: Saturday, March 21 at 1:00 PM (Sanctuary)

    • A formal reception will follow in Plymouth Hall.

  • The Sunday Celebration: Sunday, March 22 at 10:00 AM (Worship Service)

    • Join us as we celebrate this new covenant during our morning worship.

Learn More About Who We Are

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!

Upcoming Services and Events

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Upcoming Services and Events 〰️

Featured
Palm Sunday
Mar 29
Palm Sunday

Celebrate a different kind of kingdom—one built on peace and radical inclusion. Join us Sunday, March 29 at 10 AM for Palm Sunday at FCC Bakersfield. Whether you're a lifelong believer or just curious about a life of 'love in action,' there is a place for you in this parade of hope.

Easter Sunday
Apr 5
Easter Sunday

Love is rising! Join us Sunday, April 5 at 10 AM for an Easter celebration like no other. At FCC Bakersfield, we believe the resurrection is a living 'Yes' to hope, justice, and you. Come celebrate a new day where everyone—truly everyone—is invited to the table. Let’s find joy together!

Ministries That Matter

  • Shelves stocked with canned goods, snacks, and pantry items at First Congregational Church of Bakersfield’s Food Pantry.

    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.

    Learn More & Find Local Resources

  • 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.

    Learn More or Donate Supplies
  • FCC Bakersfield pastors welcoming guests at the Neighborhood Café check-in table under a yellow umbrella.

    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.

    Get Involved

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.

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