🎶 Don’t Miss This Incredible Free Blues Concert! 🎶

In celebration of Black History Month, the Dukes Concert Series proudly presents the Montano/Stonelake Blues Band, a powerhouse ensemble of seasoned musicians ready to take you on a soul-stirring journey through the history of the Blues.

The Blues isn’t just music—it’s a feeling. Originating in the deep South, this uniquely American art form has shaped nearly every modern music genre, from jazz to rock and roll. This special concert will showcase a mix of classic and contemporary blues brought to life by an incredible lineup of local talent.

Leading the performance are Mike Montano and Tim Stonelake, two acclaimed blues musicians who have gathered some of the best players in the local scene to create a one-night-only experience. Joining them on stage will be:

• Mike Montano – vocals, guitar (co-leader)

• Tim Stonelake – vocals, guitar (co-leader)

• Tanner Byrom – drums

• Wil Hamilton, Jr. – bass

• Sherna Armstrong – vocals

• Herb Mallory – vocals

• Flat Top Tom – harmonica

Thanks to the generosity of the Fred & Beverly Dukes Endowment and First Congregational Church of Bakersfield, this concert is completely FREE and open to the public. Donations are gratefully accepted to help continue bringing exceptional live music to our community.

Whether you’re a lifelong blues fan or just discovering its rich history, this is a concert you won’t want to miss. So bring a friend, come ready to tap your feet, and experience the raw emotion and energy of the Montano/Stonelake Blues Band live in concert.

Fred and Beverly Dukes Memorial Concert Series Presents: Uptown Swing with Steve Eisen

Kick off the new year with style, rhythm, and electrifying energy! Join us on Sunday, January 12, 2025, at 4:00 PM for an unforgettable evening with Uptown Swing featuring Steve Eisen, part of the Fred and Beverly Dukes Memorial Concert Series.

Get ready for an evening filled with smooth melodies, lively beats, and the captivating energy of live jazz. Uptown Swing, led by renowned saxophonist Steve Eisen, will bring the house down with a mix of classic and modern jazz that will have your toes tapping and your spirits soaring. Whether you’re a longtime jazz lover or just looking for a fun way to spend your Sunday, this performance is sure to impress!

This concert is free and open to the whole Bakersfield community. Thanks to the generosity of the Dukes family, everyone can enjoy world-class music without a ticket. Donations are welcome to help support future concerts and keep this incredible tradition alive.

So, gather your friends and family and join us for a night of unforgettable music, community connection, and pure jazz magic. Doors open at 3:30 PM—don’t miss your chance to swing into the new year!

See you at the Dukes!

You’re Invited – Christmas Eve Candlelight Service

Join us on Tuesday, December 24, 2024, at 4:00 PM for a beautiful and sacred Christmas Eve service. Led by Rev. Nancy Bacon and Rev. Jenell Mahoney, this special worship time invites us to pause and reflect on the wonder of Christ’s birth.

Together, we’ll light the white center candle—the Candle of Christ—symbolizing the arrival of Jesus, the Light of the World. Through meditation and song, we’ll prepare our hearts to welcome the peace, joy, love, and hope that Christmas brings.

As the service draws to a close, we will each hold a candle, filling the sanctuary with light as we sing “Silent Night, Holy Night.” This cherished tradition reminds us of the holy stillness of that first Christmas night and the unending love of God.

Come and be part of this heartfelt celebration. Bring your family, your friends, and your faith or curiosity. Let’s rejoice together in the miracle of Christmas!

You’re Invited – Sunday Worship on December 22, 2024

This Fourth Sunday of Advent, we light the candle of PEACE and gather to reflect on the promise of a Savior who brings peace to a weary world. Through the powerful words of Isaiah 9:2, 6–7, the tender story of Christ’s birth in Luke 2:1–20, and the profound mystery of John 1:1–9, 14, we’ll journey together toward the joy of Christmas.

Join us as we embrace the quiet strength of peace—a peace that overcomes darkness, unites us in love, and prepares our hearts for the arrival of the Prince of Peace. Whether you’re seeking calm in the midst of a busy season or searching for something more meaningful this Christmas, we welcome you with open arms.

Service begins at 10:00 AM. Come experience the beauty of Advent as we draw closer to the light of Christ. Let peace fill your heart and mind this season—you belong here.

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.