Fall at First Congo brings a vibrant rhythm of reflection, connection, and renewal.
As the seasons shift, it’s the perfect time to explore meaningful ways to grow in faith and community.
We’ve planned a variety of gatherings and opportunities designed to inspire, nourish, and engage.
Take a look through what’s ahead and sign up for anything that speaks to you. We’d love to have you join us this fall!
SPECIAL EVENTS FOR OUR RETIRING SENIOR MINISTER
We are excited to welcome our Senior Minister Elect, Rev. Chrissy Tatum Williamson, on Sunday, September 7 during our 8:45 AM and 10:00 AM worship services.
Following the 10:00 AM service, please join us in Plymouth Hall for a special Holy Grounds – a wonderful opportunity to meet Chrissy and extend a warm greeting as she begins her ministry with us.
SPECIAL EVENTS IN THE FALL AT FIRST CONGO
REGISTRATION FOR OUR YOUTH EVENTS THIS FALL
WORSHIP AT 8:45 AM & 10 AM
Starting September 7
We will offer 8:45 AM and 10 AM worship services on Sunday mornings during the fall. Sunday school and childcare will be offered at both services. Immediately after both worship services, coffee, refreshments and fellowship will be offered in the Parlor of our Education Building.
The 10AM service will be live-streamed for those who are unable to join us.
HOLY GROUNDS HOST
Your help is needed as a Holy Grounds Host. It’s simple:
- Bring a few treats OR help with setup/cleanup.
- Share fellowship and welcome others
ELEVEN10 CONNECTION
Starts September 14
Sundays following the 10 AM worship service
Eleven10 Connection is a weekly gathering where we explore different faith-based topics together.
Eleven10 Connection Schedule
- September 7 – Robust Holy Grounds for Chrissy’s First Sunday Hosted by the Search Committee | Location: Outside or Plymouth Hall
- September 14 – Post-Sermon Conversation With Rev. Chrissy Tatum Williamson | Location: Seim Room
- September 21 – The History of our Congregation’s Controversies With Rich Kirchherr| Location: Seim Room (recorded)
- September 28 – Post-Sermon Conversation With Rich Kirchherr | Location: Seim Room
- October 5 – Are Your Affairs in Order? With Jean, Meredith, & Terri R. | Location: Seim Room
- October 12 – Robust Holy Grounds for Rich’s Last Sunday Hosted by Woman’s Society | Location: Plymouth Hall
- October 19 – AI and Church Ministry (Part 1) Exploring benefits, drawbacks, and creative uses of AI in faith & worship With John Rodgers & Ron Searl | Location: Seim Room
- October 26 – AI and Church Ministry (Part 2) With John Rodgers & Ron Searl | Location: Seim Room
- November 2 – Labyrinth Walk All Saints Da
- November 9 – Loving Our LGBTQ+ Family, Friends, and Neighbors With Janay Joyce, LCSW (Lurie Children’s Hospital) Hosted by Justice & Inclusion | Location: Seim Room
- November 16 – Celebration of the Congregation’s Covenant with Chrissy Reception hosted by the Diaconate | Location: Plymouth Hall
- November 23 – Dementia Friends Learn five key messages about dementia and how to support those affected With Susan Frick, LCSW, LSW (Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center) Hosted by Justice & Inclusion Team | Location: Seim Room
LECTIO DIVINA VIA ZOOM
Starts September 8
Offered every Monday morning at 10 AM via Zoom
Join this Lectio Divina group who will gather via Zoom to read scripture and reflect on what words or phrases stir their hearts. Reach out to Meredith Onion to get connected to this group at meredith@wscongo.org.
MOMS IN FAITH – MORNINGS
Friday Mornings at 9 AM – 11 AM
Begins September 5
9 AM – 11 AM, Seim Room
A welcoming space to pray, grow in faith, and build lasting relationships. Open to all moms, with children of any age.
Free childcare is available.
MOMS IN FAITH – EVENINGS
Wednesday Evenings at 7 PM
Begins September 10 and takes place every 2nd and 4th Wednesday evening
7 PM – 8:30 PM, Seim Room
A welcoming space to pray, grow in faith, and build lasting relationships that takes place in the evenings.
FAITH & FLOW YOGA
Sunday at 6 PM
Begins September 7, Chapel and via Zoom
Join us for a gentle, welcoming yoga class designed to nurture your body, calm your mind, and center your spirit. Each session combines simple stretches, breathing practices, and moments of quiet reflection—helping you connect more deeply with yourself and with God’s presence.
All levels are welcome—whether you’re new to yoga or have been practicing for years. Just bring a mat, comfortable clothing, and an open heart. No registration required but please fill out a waiver and consider a $10 donation per class.
WORDS AND MUSIC – CLASSICAL
Sunday, September 21 at 5 PM
Featuring Janet Mensen Reynolds & Natalie Ingrisano, Vocalists and Kathy Christian, Pianist.
BURGER NIGHT
Once a month (or so) — At a different burger joint (times and locations vary)
September 23 at 5:30 PM, Murray Johnson’s house
This group of men BUILDS FRIENDSHIPS over a burger and a beverage.
Since 2016, BNO has raised $12,000 for BEDS Plus, our local homeless services agency.
Get the BNO emails by contacting Mark Laubacher at mark@laubacherco.com.
WORDS AND MUSIC – LOST AND FOUND
September 28 at 5 PM
Be there for the All In Band’s long-awaited return with Lost & Found – a bold mix of music that uncovers how pop culture wrestles with what’s lost, and how faith redefines what it means to be found.
THURSDAY MORNING BOOK GROUP
Thursday Mornings
Starting September 11 at 9:15 AM, Seim Room or via Zoom
Join Meredith Onion and other women to discuss: Fierce Love – A Bold Path to Ferocious Courage and Rule-Breaking Kindness That Can Heal the World.
Email Meredith Onion, meredith@wscongo.org to register.
SEEK.PRAY.LOVE.
Thursdays at 5 PM
Starting September 11 at participants’ homes
Join Meredith Onion and other women to discuss: Gratefulness, the Heart of Prayer.
Email Meredith Onion, meredith@wscongo.org to register.
MEN’S BREAKFAST
Second Saturday morning of every month
Starting September 13 at Honey Bee Cafe, 8 AM
A special Men’s Breakfast as we will wish Rich Kirchherr a final farewell.
Email Ron Searle at Ron@wscongo.org to reserve your seat.
FRIDAY FRIENDS
Friday at Noon
Starting September 5 in the Seim Room, Noon – 1 PM
Pack a sack lunch and enjoy an hour of meaningful conversation on faith-based topics in a relaxed, small-group setting. No preparation is required.
TOGETHER WOMEN RISE
2nd Tuesday of the month
September 9 at 7 PM
We invite you to join Together Women Rise as we:
- Learn about the challenges women face globally
- Give to support programs that empower women and girls
- Build a community of women and allies dedicated to making the world a better place
Please reach out to Laurel Seidelman to learn more about this group at lseidelman@comcast.net.
WATERCOLOR CLASS
Wednesdays at 10 AM
Starting September 3 in the Music Room, 10 AM – 12 PM
Explore techniques, express your creativity, and enjoy painting together in a relaxed setting.
Questions, please reach out to the instructor, Sally Brandenburg, at sallysart@comcast.net.
CONGO CREATIVES CLASS
Saturdays at 10 AM
Starting September 6 in the Music Room, 10 AM – 12 PM
Explore techniques, express your creativity, and enjoy painting together in a relaxed setting.
Questions, please reach out to the instructor, Marie Murrell at Mariebmurrell@gmail.com.
ARE YOUR AFFAIRS IN ORDER?
Sunday October 5, 11:10 AM
Learn about important documents every adult (18+) should have in place to ensure their healthcare wishes are honored. We will also discuss how to navigate tough topics like end of life decisions and start meaningful conversations with your family.
No registration required.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND CHURCH MINISTRY
October 19 and October 26 at 11:10 AM
Join John Rodgers and Ron Searl as they explore the benefits, drawbacks and challenges of Artificial Intelligence (AI) when using in our faith communities.
No registration required.
HOW FAITH COMMUNITIES CAN SUPPORT THOSE WITH DEMENTIA
Sunday, November 23, 11:10 AM
Susan Frick, a church member and social worker from the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center, will inform us on how we can support people with Dementia.
This event will be available via Zoom and please reach out to Ron@wscongo.org for the link.
KEMPER LIBRARY
Open 9-2 Monday through Friday, and Sunday mornings
Have you visited The Kemper Library lately? You will find a treasure trove of thoughtfully curated books for all ages that will enhance your understanding of God’s love for you and for the world around you. The door is always open, so stop in to enjoy a quiet respite, check out a book or two, and pick up a Kemper Library bookmark. A list of the entire collection can be found online and also in printed form in the library.
