What We're About

No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here! This is our culture at First Congregational Church of Ithaca.

Welcoming, Open and Affirming

We are an active, gracious church, and we want you to be part of our faith community! Jesus didn’t turn anyone away, and neither will we. We are Open and Affirming, welcoming all people, especially LGBTQ2IA+ people, into the full life and ministry of the congregation. YOU belong here!

A Still-Speaking God

Our church is filled with people who are committed to exploring their faith in community. Some of us come from faith traditions outside of Christianity. Others of us are brand new to Christianity. But all of us are trying to figure out what following Jesus means in the 21st century. We are a church trying to listen for God’s Still-Speaking voice as it leads us to serve our neighborhood and community.

Active and Committed

We are committed to serving each other and our community, reaching out to those in need, and making the world a more loving, just place.

the congregation shaking hands and greeting each other across the pews

Our Denomination

Since 1957, the United Church of Christ has been a “church of firsts”: the first historically white denomination to ordain an African-American, the first to ordain a woman, the first to ordain an openly gay man, and the first Christian church to affirm the right of same-gender couples to marry.

We are a church where Jesus the healer meets Jesus the revolutionary, and where together, we grow a just and peaceful world.

The National United Church of Christ logo, a light blue comma resembling a wave in front of a darker blue circle

Our Mission

Our mission at FCCI is to Be the church:  Protect the environment. Care for the poor. Forgive often. Reject racism. Fight for the powerless. Share earthly and spiritual resources. Embrace diversity. Love God. Enjoy this life!

Our Goals

Be a vital, growing congregation

Support our members

Foster personal spiritual growth

Impact the community and the world

Come and experience our church!