Mark Your Calendars – A Joyful Holiday Concert Awaits!

Celebrate the magic of the season with the Fred and Beverly Dukes Memorial Concert Series! On Sunday, December 15, at 4:00 PM, our sanctuary will come alive with the uplifting sounds of the Goldenaires, a dynamic volunteer choral group bringing decades of passion and harmony to the stage.

Directed by Phil Witmer and accompanied by Becky Noia on piano, this vibrant choir of over 50 singers will perform a delightful mix of cherished Christmas favorites, sure to fill your heart with holiday cheer. With a repertoire spanning Broadway classics, timeless hits, and festive carols, the Goldenaires are sure to deliver an unforgettable performance for all ages.

This free event welcomes everyone! Donations will be gratefully accepted at the door to support the talented musicians and the Dukes Concert Series.

Invite your friends, bring your family, and join us for this heartwarming celebration of music, community, and the spirit of Christmas. See you on Sunday, December 15, at 4:00 PM!

You’re Invited – Sunday Worship and Christmas Pageant on December 15, 2024

This Third Sunday of Advent, we’re lighting the candle of JOY and celebrating the season with a heartwarming Christmas Pageant, “The Friendly Beasts.” Written by Fr. John Shimchick and lovingly revised by Rev. Nancy Bacon, this special service brings the nativity story to life through the eyes of the animals who witnessed the miracle of Christ’s birth.

With children and adults from our congregation taking part, this intergenerational pageant is a joyful expression of community, creativity, and the true meaning of Christmas. Through storytelling, song, and spirit, we’ll be reminded of the beauty of God’s creation and the joy that comes with sharing love and kindness.

Service begins at 10:00 AM in our sanctuary. Bring your family, your friends, and your sense of wonder—this is a celebration you won’t want to miss! Together, let’s rejoice in the season of Advent and the JOY that comes with Christ’s coming.

You’re Invited – Sunday Worship on December 8, 2024

Are you searching for something deeper this season—a love that renews, restores, and refines? This Second Sunday of Advent, we invite you to join us as we light the candle of LOVE and explore the transformative power it brings to our lives.

Rev. Jenell W. Mahoney will lead us in worship with her sermon, “The Refiner’s Fire,” drawing on the wisdom of Malachi 2:17–3:5 and the powerful messages of Luke 1:76a–79 and 3:1–9. Together, we’ll reflect on how God’s love, like a refining fire, challenges us to grow and shine more brightly in a world that needs hope and healing.

Whether you’ve been walking in faith for years or are simply curious about what Advent means, you are welcome here. Come and discover how love has the power to reshape us and the world around us.

Worship begins at 10:00 AM. Join us as we prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ and the joy of the season. There’s a place for you here!

You’re Invited – Sunday Worship on December 1, 2024

Are you feeling adrift in a world that seems dark and uncertain? Do you ever wonder if hope is out of reach? This Sunday, as we begin the season of Advent, we invite you to join us for a message of light, renewal, and HOPE. Rev. Nancy Bacon will lead us in worship with her sermon, “Exiled from Hope? We’ll Leave the Light on for You,” inspired by the comforting promises of Jeremiah 33:14-16 and the words of Jesus in Luke 21:25-36.

No matter where life has taken you—whether you’re full of faith, filled with doubt, or just curious—our doors and hearts are open to you. This first Sunday of Advent, we light the candle of HOPE, a reminder that even in the deepest struggles, hope can shine through.

Come as you are. Service begins at 10:00 AM. You are not alone, and there’s a place for you here.

Join us for a lively and joyful performance by Bakersfield's premier mariachi band, Mariachi Aguilas. In honor of Dia de los Muertos, this concert will bring the spirit of remembrance and celebration to life.

This week we have two different readings that challenge our perspectives on “greatness” as well as the nature of God and how God works. In Mark, chapter 10, Jesus defines greatness differently than most of us: The greatest is the one who loves and serves others. 

In tandem, the ancient story of Job challenges our thoughts about why a great and powerful God allows suffering to happen and especially confronts those who would claim that they know how God works.

God and Jesus appear in these readings to disrupt our thinking and to point us toward our own roads to greatness. Throughout the bible and in real life today, God, continues to speak to us, in multiple ways, about our own personal paths. Sometimes God will surprise us, speaking through spirited debate, ancient stories, modern visionaries, little nudges, or by extreme measures shaking us up or breaking our hearts for something or someone else. 

May you hear and know the road to greatness that God has set you on.

Join Us This Sunday for "Who Are You?" at First Congregational Church UCC Bakersfield

You’re invited to join us this Sunday at First Congregational Church UCC Bakersfield for an uplifting, thoughtful service exploring one of life’s biggest questions: “Who are you?” Whether you’re new to church or simply curious, this is a welcoming space to dive into a question that’s relatable to everyone.

This week, we’ll be looking at the story of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37, a story that goes beyond religious boundaries and challenges us to think about who we are and how we see others. Jesus tells this story to answer a question we’ve probably all asked at some point: What does it mean to truly care for others? And who counts as “our neighbor”?

In today’s busy world, it’s easy to get wrapped up in our own lives, overlooking the people we pass by every day. This Sunday, we’ll explore what it means to recognize and respond to those around us with compassion. We’ll reflect on how small acts of kindness—things like offering a listening ear, helping someone in need, or just slowing down to notice—shape who we are at the core.

You don’t have to be a regular churchgoer or know all the answers. Just bring your curiosity and an open mind. Join us at 10 AM for a time of meaningful conversation, reflection, and connection with a warm and welcoming community. We’d love to meet you and share this journey of discovery together. Come as you are and let’s explore the possibilities of who we can become, together.

Hey neighbors! 🌟 We’re excited to invite you to our big Church Rummage Sale! It’s happening on Friday, October 11th, from 7:30 am to 5:00 pm, and Saturday, October 12th, from 7:30 am to Noon. We’ll have a little bit of everything—clothes, kitchenware, books, and all sorts of treasures waiting to be discovered.

But here’s the best part: every single dollar you spend goes directly to support our community outreach programs. This means that by shopping at our sale, you’re not just taking home great finds—you’re also making a real difference in the lives of our local neighbors in need.

We know how important it is to come together and help one another, and this Rummage Sale is a simple yet powerful way to do just that. So, whether you’re looking for a great deal, or just want to contribute to a good cause, we’d love to see you there. Remember, it’s cash only, so bring your change, your friends, and your love for the community. Let’s make this event not just about finding bargains but about making a positive impact together. See you soon!

Hey neighbors! 🌟 We’re excited to invite you to our big Church Rummage Sale! It’s happening on Friday, October 11th, from 7:30 am to 5:00 pm, and Saturday, October 12th, from 7:30 am to Noon. We’ll have a little bit of everything—clothes, kitchenware, books, and all sorts of treasures waiting to be discovered.

But here’s the best part: every single dollar you spend goes directly to support our community outreach programs. This means that by shopping at our sale, you’re not just taking home great finds—you’re also making a real difference in the lives of our local neighbors in need.

We know how important it is to come together and help one another, and this Rummage Sale is a simple yet powerful way to do just that. So, whether you’re looking for a great deal, or just want to contribute to a good cause, we’d love to see you there. Remember, it’s cash only, so bring your change, your friends, and your love for the community. Let’s make this event not just about finding bargains but about making a positive impact together. See you soon!

Celebrate Our Furry Friends – Outdoor Blessing of the Animals!

We’re so excited to invite you to a special day of blessings, love, and community spirit! On Sunday, October 6th, join us for an outdoor service dedicated to blessing the animals that bring so much joy into our lives. Whether you bring your pet in person or just a photo, we’re here to offer a blessing. Just make sure all pets are friendly, on a leash, or crated for safety. 🐾

This day isn’t just about blessings – it’s about action! We’ll have wonderful non-profits sharing their work to control the pet population in Bakersfield and how you can get involved. They’ll have items for sale to fund their vital efforts and will be accepting donations as well. 💕

We’re also collecting cat and dog food donations for the ‘Bakersfield Pet Food Pantry’ to help those in our community who need a hand feeding their pets. The event runs from 9 AM to 12 noon, with the blessing service starting at 10 AM. Enjoy live music, tasty treats from food trucks, and vendors offering pet products! 🎶🍴

This heartwarming event is brought to you by First Congregational Church UCC of Bakersfield and the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Kern. Let’s come together to support our pets and the people who care for them. We can’t wait to see you there! 🐾❤️

#BlessingoftheAnimals #HelpingHands #FCCBakersfield #UUFKC #PetBlessings

We’re thrilled to invite you to a breathtaking performance as part of the Fred and Beverly Dukes Concert Series! Join us for An Afternoon of Sonatas for Violin and Piano with two world-class musicians.

Meet the Artists:

Limor Toren-Immerman, an internationally acclaimed violinist, has performed as a soloist across the United States, Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. With a repertoire that includes works by Mendelssohn, Beethoven, and Tchaikovsky, her performances have captivated audiences from Israel to Russia. She’s currently the Concertmaster for multiple orchestras and is well known for her vibrant, expressive playing.

Drew Quiring, a sought-after collaborative pianist, brings a wealth of experience from both sides of the Atlantic. Having worked with prestigious music academies in France, Salzburg, and the U.S., Drew’s performances reflect his deep connection to the music and his unique ability to blend with world-class soloists.

This is your chance to experience divine classical music in the heart of Bakersfield, all for free! Donations are always appreciated to support future concerts, but no ticket is required—just bring your love of music and a readiness to be swept away by the beauty of violin and piano.

Mark your calendar for Sunday, September 29th—we can’t wait to see you there for an unforgettable afternoon of music!

Join Us for “The Power Worshippers” – Sunday, September 29, 2024

You’re invited to join us this Sunday at First Congregational Church for a thought-provoking service titled “The Power Worshippers.” Whether you’re familiar with church or just curious about exploring faith, this is an opportunity to dive into meaningful questions about leadership, fear, and truth.

Rev. Jenell will be exploring the history of Israel’s first king, Saul. At a time when the early tribes of Israel were facing the powerful Philistine army, they demanded a king—just like the other nations had. Instead of following their tradition of calling forth a judge, they sought a strongman to rescue them. But what happens when fear drives our decisions? Do we, too, look for someone to “save” us when we’re feeling overwhelmed?

In today’s world, it’s easy to fall into the same trap—seeking someone or something that promises security or control. But how does this approach affect our lives, and where does it lead us? Jesus’ words, “the Truth will set you free,” offer a powerful alternative, pointing us toward a future shaped by trust, faith, and honesty.

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering how fear influences the choices we make, or how we can break free from cycles of poor decisions, this service will be an opportunity to reflect and find guidance. We’ll look at how truth and trust in God can lead us to a stronger, more hopeful future.

Join us this Sunday at 10 AM for a time of reflection, discussion, and connection. Whether you’re new to church or looking to engage in a fresh way, we’d love to see you there!

Join Us for This Sunday’s Interactive Worship Service!

We’re excited to invite you to this Sunday’s Interactive Worship Service at First Congregational Church! This month, we’ll be exploring our Christian faith through discussion, art, drama, and music—and everyone is invited to take part in the experience.

This week’s service will focus on Micah 6:8 and Matthew 22:36-39, two powerful Bible passages that challenge us to live justly, love with mercy, and walk humbly in faith. We’ll also dive into deeper questions, reflecting on how the Bible reveals the nature of God, how Jesus expressed His understanding of God, and how we can follow Jesus’ example more closely in our own lives.

It’s an opportunity to not only reflect but to participate, think creatively, and share insights. Whether you’re drawn to art, discussion, or music, there’s a place for you in this service. We’ll be exploring these themes together in ways that are meaningful and engaging.

Join us this Sunday at 10 AM—bring your curiosity, your voice, and your openness as we learn and grow together. Let’s discover new ways to live out our faith as a community, making this Sunday an inspiring and uplifting experience.

You’re invited to join us this Sunday, September 15th, for a thought-provoking and welcoming service titled “Wisdom and Truth.” Whether you’re familiar with church or just curious, this service is open to everyone, especially those looking for meaningful reflection in today’s world.

Rev. Mahoney will be preaching from the book of Proverbs, where we explore the concept of “Sophia” or “Wisdom”—the feminine face of God. This wisdom is described as “the first of God’s acts of long ago” and was present when God established the heavens, spread the skies, and marked out the seas. The scriptures call Wisdom a “master worker,” expressing God’s strength and creativity in ways that might challenge the traditional, patriarchal views often associated with Christianity.

This service offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the feminine aspect of God and what it means to recognize that women, too, are created in the image of God. It’s a topic that invites us to think beyond conventional norms and explore spirituality in a fresh, inclusive way.

If you’re interested in digging deeper, we’ll also be touching on these ideas in our Sunday morning class on “Christian” nationalism. We’ll discuss how these themes challenge patriarchal Christianity and open up conversations about faith, inclusion, and the evolving understanding of God.

Come as you are—whether you’ve never attended a service or you’ve been searching for a space that welcomes deep thinking and open discussion. We’d love for you to join us at 10 AM this Sunday as we explore Wisdom and Truth together. There’s a seat for everyone at this table.

Hope to see you there!

Get excited this special service on September 8th—it’s going to be a day full of fun and celebration, and it’s all about the kids! We’ve got a fiesta-themed service lined up, complete with snow cones, a piñata, and a performance by Ballet Folklorico Mi Pasión. Plus, we’ll be enjoying some lively mariachi music to keep the spirit high.

But that’s not all—we’re also giving back to our community. During the offering, we invite you to bring donated items for our back-to-school drive. We’re collecting essentials like markers, crayons, student scissors, whiteboard markers, backpacks, #2 pencils, paper, notebooks, erasers, folders, colored pencils, protractors, compasses, pencil pouches, glue sticks, liquid glue, journals, sharpeners, college-ruled notebooks, and even clay! All donations will go directly to our local neighborhood schools, helping kids get a strong start to the school year.

With a shortened 40-minute service, there’s plenty of time for everyone to join in the festivities. Bring the whole family, soak in the culture, and let’s make this Sunday a day to remember. We can’t wait to see you there!

Last week of our 5-week discussion on ‘Queer Theology; Radical Love’.

Are you curious what the word “queer” means or the word “theology”? What’s “Queer Theology”? Churches teach or imply many things about the inclusion of all people and the essence of the Divine. Often, church organizations have promoted “unqueer” images of the Divine and normative expectations for human gender expression. Let’s discuss some broader understandings! God probably laughs at our over-simplified ways of labeling one another. 

Our course will draw from the book, “Radical Love” by Patrick Cheng.

This Sunday we gather to explore what it means to challenge the traditions that no longer serve us. In our service titled “Which Traditions Should We Break?” we’ll reflect on how Jesus called out the religious leaders of his time for holding on to traditions that missed the point of God’s love and justice. Join us this Sunday as we discuss what traditions in our own lives might need rethinking and how we can better align our actions with the true heart of our faith. We can’t wait to see you at 10 AM!

Week 4 of our 5-week discussion on ‘Queer Theology; Radical Love’.

Are you curious what the word “queer” means or the word “theology”? What’s “Queer Theology”? Churches teach or imply many things about the inclusion of all people and the essence of the Divine. Often, church organizations have promoted “unqueer” images of the Divine and normative expectations for human gender expression. Let’s discuss some broader understandings! God probably laughs at our over-simplified ways of labeling one another. 

Our course will draw from the book, “Radical Love” by Patrick Cheng.

Hey there! We’d love for you to join us this Sunday, August 25th, for a special service called “Bible Stories that Stay with Us.” This isn’t your typical service—it’s interactive, and we’re all going to get involved by sharing the Bible stories or verses that have made a difference in our lives.

Throughout the week on Facebook, we’ve been reflecting on how our lives tell a story—one that others can see and be inspired by. We’ve talked about how our actions reflect our faith, the importance of passing on these values to the next generation, and how to find peace in our daily lives. It’s all been leading up to this Sunday, where we’ll bring these ideas together.

During the service, we’ll sit in small groups and share the Bible stories or verses that resonate with us. Maybe there’s a story that’s given you hope during tough times, or a verse that’s guided you through a difficult decision. This is your chance to share that with others and hear what’s been meaningful to them too.

Whether you’ve been coming to church for years or you’re just exploring, this service is for you. It’s a chance to connect, share, and discover new inspiration from the stories that have shaped us.

Join us this Sunday at 10 AM—we can’t wait to hear your story and share this experience with you!

Week 3 of our 5-week discussion on ‘Queer Theology; Radical Love’.

Are you curious what the word “queer” means or the word “theology”? What’s “Queer Theology”? Churches teach or imply many things about the inclusion of all people and the essence of the Divine. Often, church organizations have promoted “unqueer” images of the Divine and normative expectations for human gender expression. Let’s discuss some broader understandings! God probably laughs at our over-simplified ways of labeling one another. 

Our course will draw from the book, “Radical Love” by Patrick Cheng.

Questioning Solomon’s Wisdom with Rev. Nancy Bacon

On Sunday, August 18th, we invite you to a service that promises to provoke thought and reflection as Rev. Nancy Bacon delivers her sermon, "Solomon’s Wisdom?" Centered on the passages from 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14; 5:13-17, this sermon will question the true nature of Solomon’s wisdom.

While Solomon is often celebrated for his wise rulings and grand achievements, his reign also included significant flaws and challenges. Rev. Bacon will lead us in examining whether Solomon’s wisdom was as clear-cut as it seems, and what this means for our own quest for wisdom.

By engaging with the complexities of Solomon’s story, we are invited to explore our own definitions and aspirations of wisdom. This service will encourage you to think critically about how wisdom is applied in our lives today.

Join us for a meaningful exploration of these themes, and leave with a renewed perspective on what it means to be truly wise. We can’t wait to welcome you.

Week 2 of our 5-week discussion on ‘Queer Theology; Radical Love’.

Are you curious what the word “queer” means or the word “theology”? What’s “Queer Theology”? Churches teach or imply many things about the inclusion of all people and the essence of the Divine. Often, church organizations have promoted “unqueer” images of the Divine and normative expectations for human gender expression. Let’s discuss some broader understandings! God probably laughs at our over-simplified ways of labeling one another. 

Our course will draw from the book, “Radical Love” by Patrick Cheng.

Discover the Path to Peace with Rev. Nancy Bacon

Join us on Sunday, August 11th, for a transformative worship experience as Rev. Nancy Bacon delivers her insightful sermon, "Cultivating Peace." Drawing from Psalm 130 and Ephesians 4:25-5:2, Rev. Bacon will guide us through the profound and practical ways we can foster peace in our hearts, homes, and communities.

Psalm 130 speaks to the depths of our souls, offering hope and redemption, while Ephesians 4:25-5:2 provides a blueprint for living harmoniously with others. In today's fast-paced world, these timeless scriptures are more relevant than ever, reminding us of the power of forgiveness, honesty, and love.

Don't miss this opportunity to explore how we can cultivate peace in our daily lives. Join us for an uplifting service filled with worship, reflection, and community connection. We look forward to seeing you there!

Are you curious what the word “queer” means or the word “theology”? What’s “Queer Theology”? Churches teach or imply many things about the inclusion of all people and the essence of the Divine. Often, church organizations have promoted “unqueer” images of the Divine and normative expectations for human gender expression. Let’s discuss some broader understandings! God probably laughs at our over-simplified ways of labeling one another. 

Our course will draw from the book, “Radical Love” by Patrick Cheng. Come and join the 5-week discussions beginning August 4th at 12:30. 

Join us this Sunday for a thought-provoking worship service featuring Rev. Nancy Bacon's sermon titled "David, David, David." She will explore the rich and challenging narrative of 2 Samuel 11:26-12:13a, shedding light on its relevance to our lives today.

This scripture passage highlights a pivotal moment in King David's life when the prophet Nathan bravely confronts him about his serious misdeeds—committing adultery with Bathsheba and ensuring her husband Uriah's demise. This ancient account serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of our actions and the importance of seeking redemption.

In today's world, we are often faced with difficult decisions and moral challenges. Rev. Bacon will draw parallels between David's story and our own lives, encouraging us to reflect on how we handle our own shortcomings and the steps we take toward forgiveness and reconciliation. Her sermon promises to offer deep insights and practical wisdom for navigating the complexities of modern life with integrity and grace.

Join us at First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ of Bakersfield on Sunday, May 19th, for our special Pentecost service titled “Passing the Torch.” As we reflect on Acts 2:1-17, we celebrate the empowering descent of the Holy Spirit, marking a pivotal moment in the life of the church. This day is not just about remembering the past; it's about stepping boldly into the future, equipped and inspired by the Spirit's gifts. We rejoice in God's creation, filled with hope, vision, and dreams, and we embrace the call to use our talents to build a church and a world as envisioned by God—a world of life, love, justice, healing, peace, and delight. Whether you're a lifelong churchgoer or seeking a new spiritual path, join us in this joyous celebration of empowerment and renewal, as we pass the torch to each new generation under the guidance of the Spirit.

Celebrate Mother's Day with us at First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ of Bakersfield this Sunday, May 12th. Our service, themed "A New String Theory," delves into Jesus' poignant prayer for unity from John 17:6-11, emphasizing the bonds that connect us all. On this special day, we honor not only the nurturing love of mothers but the broader familial bonds that enrich our lives. Whether your faith is deep-rooted or you are exploring spiritual paths, you're invited to experience the warmth and belonging our church community provides. Join us this Sunday to reflect on the love we receive from our families and how, together, we can foster a positive impact within our community and beyond, inspired by the enduring spirit of unity and love in Christ.

Join us at First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ of Bakersfield for our Sunday Worship Service on May 5th. This week, under the inspiring theme, "Live the Gospel; Love the People," we will explore the profound message of John 15:9-17, which calls us to dwell in the love of God and extend that love to others. In these scriptures, we are reminded that God's love provides hope and endless possibilities for our future. We give thanks for the daily gifts of grace and seek the joy and peace that come from serving Christ and connecting with everyone we meet. Whether you are part of our community or searching for a place to grow spiritually, come and experience the warmth and dedication of our congregation. Let us share in the joy of God’s love together!

Come explore faith and find community at First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, of Bakersfield this Sunday! Our unique monthly interactive worship, held on the fourth Sunday, invites you to delve into the theme "Finding Hope" through scripture, discussion, and creative expression. This week, we’ll draw inspiration from John 21:1-14, sharing personal breakthroughs and crafting messages of hope to share with our community through our Hope Project.

Whether you're well-versed in the Bible or just curious about spirituality, join us for a morning of art, drama, music, and meaningful conversation. Let's come together to find and spread hope!

The Fred and Beverly Dukes Memorial Concert Series Presents: Country Deluxe with Vince Galindo and Friends.

Playing a variety of classic country music from Bakersfield pioneers Buck Owens, Merle Haggard, and Red Simpson to the likes of Nashville legends Hank Williams, George Jones, and Johnny Cash, Vince Galindo has been a fixture of the Bakersfield music scene for over two decades. Loyal to the traditions of the Bakersfield Sound and classic country music, Vince's covers are full of emotion and feeling telling the stories that are missing in today’s country music. Learning as much as he can about country music, Vince passes its rich history to his audience through his performances.

Come on Sunday, April 21, 2024 at 4 PM and enjoy this FREE Concert!