About Us

OUR CHURCH

Our beliefs

At First Congregational Church of Winona - United Church of Christ, our members come from a variety of religious traditions. We believe this diversity, as well as our common affirmations; strengthen us as a community of faith. Though we encourage a broad spectrum of theological perspectives, we work, worship, and grow together as one congregation.

“God is still speaking”

We spread the message of God’s extravagant welcome, reaching out especially to those who have felt there is no room for them within Christianity and the church – the excluded and alienated, the spiritually homeless, the questioning. Together with other UCC churches, we are building communities where diverse people join to worship, grow and dream. This unprecedented strength is a sign that our God is indeed at work among us!

"No matter who you are, or where you are on life's journey, you're welcome here."

OUR SACRAMENTS

Sacraments

Our denomination, the United Church of Christ, celebrates two sacraments. They are baptism and communion.

Sacraments are ritual actions in worship which, according to Scripture, were instituted by Jesus. In the sacraments of baptism and communion we ask the Holy Spirit to use water, bread, and wine to make visible the grace, forgiveness, and presence of God in Christ.

OUR VISION AND MISSION STATEMENTS

Vision

We agree to differ. We resolve to love. We unite to serve.

(Adopted September 10, 2006)

Mission

First Congregational Church of Winona, United Church of Christ, is dedicated to the freedom and responsibility of the individual soul. We welcome all. We nurture spiritual growth. We encourage personal inquiry. Our faith in the love of God and the compassion of Jesus inspires us to serve and care for others, pursue justice, and promote peace.

(Adopted February 12, 2006)

SPECIAL SERVICES

Our church celebrates important events in the lives of our members and friends, baptisms, weddings, and funerals.

Baptism

The sacrament of baptism symbolizes the cleansing forgiveness that is ours through Jesus and reminds us that God’s love is a gift, freely offered to all who will receive it. A service of baptism is part of a Sunday morning worship service. To arrange for a baptism, call the church office 452-4829.

“Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved.” Mark 16:16 NIV.

Weddings

The minister leads couples through marriage preparation sessions, when the bride and groom have an opportunity to consider the meaning of marriage, examine personal expectations, ask questions, and share in wedding service planning.

The Sanctuary and Fireside room may be reserved by calling the church office 452-4829 for further details about being married at First Congregational.

Funerals

First Congregational of Winona - UCC wants to be as supportive and caring as we possibly can to those dealing with the death of a loved one. To lose someone we love is never easy, but we can find comfort in the community of faith and in the assurance of the life beyond death that our Lord made possible.

Family members and/or friends are invited to meet with the minister to plan the service, call 452-4829 to arrange a meeting. While some arrangements are typically made through a funeral director, the memorial service or funeral itself is a worship service, under the direction of the minister.

Other events

The Sanctuary, Fireside room and Kitchen may be reserved for other special events. To make reservations, call the church office for more details and an application form.