In the book of Jeremiah, we understand our God as one who gives us hope. It says "For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope" (Jeremiah 29:11). We know that God is with us here.
In 2011, we asked members and friends of FCCLG about their experiences here. Why participate in the life of this church? What makes it meaningful? What gives you hope? Here are some of the responses:
- I enjoy the music! The church builds my faith. Beautiful stain-glass windows.
- Comfort! Simply the hope that there are good people in the world who are trying to counterbalance and change the evil influences of the world.
- Sense of comfort and community.
- First Congregational Church feels like an extended family for me. Having been raised in the church since birth, I feel a strong connection to the people here. I also feel a strong connection to the building itself. It is so beautiful and I feel great inspiration being inside and appreciating its grandeur.
- FCCLG gives me hope through music.
- This church and its congregation give me hope in times of sickness and has celebrated with me in times of joy. It has given me good and lasting friendships.
- I value the ministry of the church to those in need within and without. This is the primary source of the church's meaning to me.
- The church gives me hope as I have seen my children grow, particularly through the Zackleys (High School Youth Group), to be more confident, happy, accepted and worldly.
- It is a place to go when my "gas tank" is empty.
- We are a church for all people and will continue to be so.
- FCCLG Gives me hope through powerful music (choir and first conservatory), social action (Saturday Meals Program, St. Barbara's Food Pantry, God's Closet), and diverse members (intriguing lives, social commitment).
- FCCLG is a family that has never given up on our family and always welcomed us back - no questions asked.
- This church gives me lots of hope for the future. It's been on this corner through the great depression, two wars, and many changes and each time God has provided for the church and congregation to stay, to be an anchor for this community.
- I find hope in those who are willing to go into the wilderness and accept what might be radical change to what we are accustomed to.
- FCCLG gives me hope through the support its members give me in my ministry to children in our larger community.
- FCCLG leads me towards a better connection with God, which I am always seeking. It has brought me into a loving church family which is so important to me, and has an outstanding music program that enhances my faith connection.
- The loyalty exhibited by the members of the choir who show up Sunday after Sunday, their involvement is a good example of giving their time and abilities and faith.
- This church gives me hope by reminding me what is the most important way to face each day.
- This church is a place where I have met and continue to meet my "best" friends.
- FCCLG speaks the truth in love.
- This is a place of friendship, love, support, music, missions to those not as fortunate as ourselves... it is a place of hope.
- FCCLG gives me hope as a strong, vital congregation, founded in the community of Christ and led forward by the Spirit. I see this hope in all of the youth and the programs available for youth, led by caring adults wanting to lead our youth in their faith journey.
- I have hope because a diverse group of individuals can come together with the purpose of worshiping our God and loving each other and our neighbors.
- Continue becoming a living, breathing reflection of Luke's gospel, that it can be a place where those who have suffered the ill effects of exclusion because of their differences are welcome.
- First Congregational Church helps me live my faith by providing opportunities to donate food, Christmas presents, school supplies; learn about the Bible and church through adult education; worship God together; and be inspired to do good works in our every day lives.
- During difficult times in my adult life, I have found both relief and hope during church services.
- This is a place to find rest and peace after a busy week of work and pressures.
- I look forward to hearing God's word each week and applying God's message to my faith journey.
