One of the most impactful ways for allies* to combat the wave of anti-trans legislation sweeping the country is to show up in public to articulate our values, unequivocally affirming that trans and nonbinary people are beautiful, sacred, and loved.

First Congregational Church is a member of the statewide, ecumenical Faith Action Network promoting social justice and race equity. FAN made a tangible difference for our neighbors across Washington in this legislative session.

The pastors and moderators are leading First Congregational in a season of visioning! Hopefully you have received a printed survey with some questions for reflection.

Last year you heard the exciting news that First Congregational Church of Bellingham and I received a Lilly Grant for Clergy Renewal. That grant supports much of what will be happening—with me and with our church—these next few months.

Some of you were part of our rich (and lengthy!) annual meeting at the beginning of February. One of the themes that emerged for many of us at that meeting, was hunger to continue the planning and dreaming work that we hoped to start in 2020. That work was largely displaced by the emergent work of learning how to be church in the midst of a global pandemic, but I am excited (and a little nervous) that it is once again time to step back into that work together!

Dear Church,

I have good news about our continuing relationship with Northwest Youth Services. As many of you know, First Congregational is proud to host The Ground Floor, a daytime program space for young people experiencing homelessness, in a beautiful, custom-built space under our sanctuary. Young people can access housing and other support services, as well as basic care like showers, a place to take a nap, simple food and more.

We can work toward climate justice in small and large ways. Find out more in this blog post.

People often ask, "What exactly is a Stephen Minister?" One way to put it is that Stephen Ministers are the After People.