SUMMER AT FIRST CONGO
Summer at First Congo brings a gentler pace—but meaningful opportunities still abound. It’s a great time to try something new and explore fresh ways to grow in your faith.We’ve planned a variety of activities to inspire connection, reflection, and joy. Browse the page and sign up for anything that speaks to you during this slower season. We’d love to have you join us!
SUMMER EVENTS FOR OUR YOUTH
Sunday morningS
Starting May 25 through August 31
We will offer a 9:30am worship service on Sunday mornings during the summer. Sunday school will be offered for those children who are in second grade and below.
If the weather permits, Holy Grounds will be outside on the front lawn.
Livestream will be available for those who are unable to join us.
SEMI ANNUAL MEETING
June 8 immediately following the 9:30am worship service
Please join us for our Semi Annual meeting where we will hear updates from our Youth Search Committee, vote on the meetings from February’s Annual meeting and our new Committee members. Your vote can be noted in the live stream chat on our YouTube Channel or by texting Ron Searl.
INVITATION TO BAPTISM
Sunday, June 8 at 9:30am
We welcome individuals of all ages to take part in a special group baptism on Sunday, June 8 at 9:30am.
BURGER NIGHT OUT
Murray Johnson’s House
Tuesday, June 10
Murray has invited BNO to another Backyard Burger Night Out next TUESDAY JUNE 10. Please RSVP below and don’t forget to BYO beverage of choice.
Schedule for the night:
5:15 –early bird helpers arrive for set up
6:00- gather and socialize — BYO Beverage of choice
6:30 — burgers on the grill
As with other events hosted in someone’s home, need some early arrivals to help with set up and other folks to help with the clean-up.
We will collect cash to reimburse Murray for his out-of-pocket costs. Donations to BEDS welcome — $1700 raised year to date.
Email murraymintjohnson@hotmail.com to RSVP.
WILL & HARPER SHOWING
Part 1: June 11 and Part 2: June 24 at 7pm
Join the Justice & Inclusion Ministry for a two-part screening of Will & Harper, a heartwarming 2024 documentary that follows Will Ferrell and his longtime friend Harper Steele on a 17-day road trip after Harper’s gender transition. It’s a powerful story of friendship, identity, and connection.
Each viewing will be followed by a thoughtful discussion led by Karen Skerrett.
Email Meredith@wscongo.org with questions.
KANE COUNTY COUGARS NIGHT
Friday, June 13 at 6:30pm
Take me out to the ballpark with the Kane County Cougars and First Congo Families!
Let us know that you can make this family-friendly event by May 31.
FATHER’S DAY REFLECTION
June 15 at 9:30am
Join us in worship as John Kienzle offers this year’s Father’s Day Reflection – a beloved tradition at First Congo where members share heartfelt stories of fatherhood, faith, and family – the bonds that shape our lives.
GATHERING ON THE GREEN
June 27 from 4pm-7pm
Come visit the First Congo table at Gathering on the Green from 4pm-7pm. We will have games for the kiddos and we would love to tell you about some ways to get involved this summer!
ANNUAL PIZZA PARTY
Thursday, July 17 at 5:30pm, Plymouth Place
Don’t miss out on this “new” annual tradition of eating pizza together with all generations from First Congo. We gather at Plymouth Place at 5:30pm and will look forward to an evening of good food, fun and friendship.
Make your reservation today!
BOOK STUDY WITH REV. KATHRYN PRICE
July 28, August 4 and 11 at 7pm
Join us 3 evenings this summer to discuss Lest Innocent Blood Be Shed by Philip Hallie. Together, we’ll reflect on what a Christian’s response should be in such moments of history.
This book can be purchased on Amazon.
Please register with Ron@wscongo.org.
FIRST CONGO’S ANNUAL PICNIC
We will gather on our front lawn for worship at 9:30am followed by the annual picnic at 11am. The All In Band will play, we’ll have a special Sunday school for the kiddos, and we will begin to wish Rich and Clare farewell.
FAITH AND FLOW YOGA
Our instructors are happy to offer Yoga during specific days throughout the summer. All levels are welcome!
Rev. Kathryn Price will lead class on Thursdays, June 26, July 3, July 24, August 7, August 21 and September 4 at 9am in the Seim Room.
Emily Epstein will lead class on Sundays at 6pm on June 1, 8, 22, and 29.
No reservation is needed for either class. A $10 donation per class is appreciated.
TAI CHI TUESDAYS
Every Tuesday except June 24 at 9:30am
Tai Chi is a gentle, flowing form of exercise and meditation that combines slow movements, deep breathing, and mindfulness to promote balance, flexibility, and inner peace. Our Faith Community Nurse, Jean Larson, leads this class at 9:30am in the Seim Room. No reservation needed.
WATERCOLOR CLASS ON WEDNESDAY
Every Wednesday at 10:30am through June 25
Come and join this community of watercolor painters who meet in Room 203 every Wednesday. The instructor, Sally Brandenburg, will suggest subjects, explain techniques, and offer demonstrations. All levels can join in the fun.
Please reach out to Sally Brandeburg at sallysart@comcast.net to get connected to the Wednesday Watercolor group.
CONGO CREATIVES
Every Saturday at 10am in Room 203
A weekly chance to come together and explore different creative interests, share ideas, learn from each other, and have fun. All skill levels are welcome.
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.
