Change is the only constant. It’s an old saying but a true one, and it’s especially true of the Church. Or it should be. Churches that try to stand still will not thrive in the 21st century. That is why it’s such a privilege to be Interim Senior Pastor at First Congregational of Ithaca. At First we share a living faith in a congregation that welcomes questions and differences, while offering traditional worship of the very highest standard. We care for one another and serve in the world, living our faith even as we continue to learn together what being people of faith means.
There is nothing about being in an interim season that means the congregation is “on hold.” On the contrary, our programming and ministries are thriving and looking ahead. Under the guidance of a dedicated interim steering committee called The Gathering Team, we are learning together what kind of church God is calling us to be in the years ahead and what kind of leadership will best express that calling. (Click on The Gathering Team’s crossed hands logo at left on the main page for current information). Under the guidance of an excellent and committed staff, we are doing ministry here and now, worshipping God, teaching our children faith, helping our community, and serving in the world.
A congregation of the United Church of Christ, we are the largest church in the central region of the New York Conference and one of the most active. We are also one of 2,500 UCC congregations that support the “God Is Still Speaking” initiative. Such affiliation means we truly welcome one and all, and are proud to descend from free-thinking, historic congregations who time and gain have taken leading roles on issues of social justice.
As you look through this document, I hope you will see not words on a page, but women, men and children gathered together to praise God in worship, prayers, learning, service, and love.
The Reverend Dr. Catherine E. Taylor
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