First Congregational Church of Western Springs

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers a reflection. 

Rev. Meredith Onion offers a reflection. 

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr offers his perspective on the word "with".

A reflection is offered. 

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers her reflection. 

A reflection on Christmas Eve from Rev. Dr. Rich Kichherr. 

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers her reflection on the 3rd Sunday of Advent. 

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr offers his reflection on the second Sunday of Advent. 

Rev. Meredith Onion will offer her reflection for the first Sunday of Advent. 

Lea Macintosh offers her reflection.

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr offers his Thanksgiving Alphabet sermon entitled "Welcome". 

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers a reflection. 

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers a reflection. 

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr offers his reflection entitled "A Better View".

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers her reflection. 

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr offers his sermon entitled "The Pace of Grace", we will sing Amazing Grace and enjoy the music from our bell choirs.

This Sunday Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr will preach a sermon for Promise Sunday. This is the Sunday when many of us will bring our pledge cards to be placed in the offering plate and blessed for the ministry of our church in the coming year.

Rev. Rich Kirchherr tells a story about a young boy in a crowd who meets Jesus and is amazed by the generosity he experiences. 

Patti Winegar offers her reflection on Share. 

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers her reflection on Serve. 

Rev. Meredith Onion shares her reflection on GROW. 

We continue exploring our holistic vision of faithful stewardship with an emphasis on Serve.

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers a reflection on Psalm 1. 

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr offers his reflection during our annual picnic.

Zada Clarke offers her testimony on Grow.

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr will preach as we return to two services at 9 and 10:30AM. His sermon will kick off our three-week worship series on Grow. Serve. Share., a holistic understanding of the stewardship of all God’s gifts as a way of faithful living.

This Sunday we’ll hear the story of Jesus healing a woman who had been afflicted for 18 years. Imagine her joy! But because Jesus healed on the Sabbath, the leaders of the Synagogue became indignant. Join us Sunday as we consider how the authorities may have been “Missing the Point,” and what we may be overlooking as well.    We will also celebrate the sacrament of Baptism and our music will be led by soloist Christina Kaloyanides-Abbott.

Scripture calls us to run with perseverance the race set before us, looking to Jesus, the perfecter and pioneer of our faith. But who gets distracted along the way?  If you do, you’re not alone, and you’ll want to listen to Meredith’s sermon: “Pay attention….SQUIRREL! PAY ATTENTION!”  We’ll choose our favorite hymns to open worship and Janet Mensen Reynolds will provide the anthem and offertory music.

We welcome our Guest Preacher - Rev. Becca Stevens. 

Our annual "Ask the Pastor?" with Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr service. 

As we continue our Biographies of Grace and Lives of Love series, Katherine Willis Pershey will be preaching on 1 Corinthians 13:1–13 and reflecting on the life of the late Rachel Held Evans, author of books such as Inspired and Searching for Sunday. Our lay speaker will be Laura Tilden. Ann Morris will offer special music, including a rendition of The Water is Wide.

As we continue our Biographies of Grace and Lives of Love series, Katherine Willis Pershey will be preaching on 1 Corinthians 13:1–13 and reflecting on the life of the late Rachel Held Evans, author of books such as Inspired and Searching for Sunday. Our lay speaker will be Laura Tilden. Ann Morris will offer special music, including a rendition of The Water is Wide.

Susan Frick reflects on her work facilitating a support group for younger onset Alzheimer’s.

This Sunday Rich will lift up the life of Edith Cavell. She was a British nurse during World War I, and was eventually in a position where she needed to provide care for soldiers from both sides. She paid dearly for what she said was the only action her faith allowed her to take. Cavell offered some powerful statements about what it means to both love your country and be a disciple of Christ.  Susan Frick, a new member, will reflect on her work facilitating a support group for younger onset Alzheimer’s, and All-In — The Congo House Band will help lead worship in song.

This Sunday, we will consider the gospel through the lens of Bryan Stevenson, a civil rights lawyer, founder of the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, and author of Just Mercy. Sonja Martinez will offer a testimony and musicians from the Western Springs School of Talent Education will offer special music. Let us do Justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with our God!

This Sunday, we will consider the gospel through the lens of Bryan Stevenson, a civil rights lawyer, founder of the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, and author of Just Mercy. Sonja Martinez will offer a testimony and musicians from the Western Springs School of Talent Education will offer special music. Let us do Justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with our God!

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers her reflection on Dolly Parton. 

This Sunday, as we continue our Lives of Love/ Biographies of Grace worship series, Rev. Dr. Richard Kirchherr will reflect on two pastors who overcame obstacles in their lives to lead wonderful ministries. Bill Johnson overcame a societal obstacle and was ordained as the first openly gay pastor in our nation’s history. His ordination took place 50 years ago this month. Bob Kemper began as a senior minister of our church 50 years ago this month, and he overcame a physical obstacle: his legal blindness.  

Rev. John Rodgers offers a reflection on Bob Kemper. 

Ben Pershey offers our annual Father's Day Reflection. 

Frances Perkins and George Marshall were two of the most influential government leaders of the 20th century. They profoundly influenced our nation and the world by shaping and forming some of our most important social programs. The foundation for their lives of service, grace and hope was their Christian faith. Ben Pershey will offer a Father’s Day reflection. And you may not know, but Diaconate donates $250 to the charity of choice for those who offer Mother’s and Father’s Day reflections. Ben has selected BEDS Plus to receive this donation. Lauren Reynolds will be our featured vocalist. The Semi-Annual meeting will take place immediately following worship.

Our Biographies of Grace & Lives of Love sermon series continues as Meredith reflects on Alberta King, the mother of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and how she influenced her son’s faith and passion for justice.  Arcadia McCauley will sing the world premiere of Jeff Kust’s composition, The Sculptor, in honor of Alberta King’s legacy.  Jean Larson will also share a reflection on how her mother impacted her faith.

Our Biographies of Grace & Lives of Love sermon series continues as Meredith reflects on Alberta King, the mother of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and how she influenced her son’s faith and passion for justice.  Arcadia McCauley will sing the world premiere of Jeff Kust’s composition, The Sculptor, in honor of Alberta King’s legacy.  Jean Larson will also share a reflection on how her mother impacted her faith.

We begin our summer worship series, Biographies of Grace & Lives of Love. Tiernan Murrell will be our lay speaker. Katherine will preach on Acts 2:1-21, the story of Pentecost, and reflect on the life of Eugene Peterson. We will celebrate Communion and receive beautiful music from the Western Springs School of Talent Education.

We begin our summer worship series, Biographies of Grace & Lives of Love. Tiernan Murrell will be our lay speaker. Katherine will preach on Acts 2:1-21, the story of Pentecost, and reflect on the life of Eugene Peterson. We will celebrate Communion and receive beautiful music from the Western Springs School of Talent Education.

On this last Sunday of Eastertide, Rev. Meredith Onion will reflect on Jesus's prayer "that they may all be one." Church History Question: Does anyone know where this appears in our UCC history?

Rev. Meredith Onion will reflect on the joys and challenges of discipleship. 

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr will preach at both services and his sermon grows from the prophet Isaiah, quoting God’s question: “Whom shall I send?”

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers her reflection entitled "Good Verbs".

Melinda Kaiser offers her Mother's Day Reflection. 

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr offers his reflection.

Worship with us as we learn about Doubting Thomas and to trust and have faith in God. The youth of First Congo will perform a skit and offer prayers and songs.    If you would like to review the bulletin, click here:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WzCL... If you are new to our faith community and are interested in learning more, please go to https://www.wscongo.org/new-here/welc...

Worship with us as we learn about Doubting Thomas and to trust and have faith in God. The youth of First Congo will perform a skit and offer prayers and songs.

We will hear the Good News that death does not have the final word, and that Christ is Risen! 

This Sunday is Palm Sunday when we celebrate the day Jesus entered into Jerusalem and was greeted by the people waving palm branches. It is a reminder of the welcoming of Jesus into our hearts and of our willingness to follow him. Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey entitled "So the Stones Don't Have To" and the bells and children choir will sing.

This Sunday we’ll hear the parable of the Prodigal Son, and consider where we see ourselves in this story.  Do we find comfort in the abundant grace shown by the father?  Or do we find ourselves resonating with the elder son's resentment?  As we travel through this reflective season of Lent, join us for worship as we continue to experience God’s overflowing love.

Our Lenten series "Full to the Brim" continues as we listen to Rev. Kirchherr offer his reflection entitled: Fully Human, Fully Divine and the Fourth Grade Bible class will receive their Bibles and Hailey Kos offers her reflection on this class.

We will worship together, listening to the reflection from Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey entitled "Under Her Wings" and enjoying music provided by the Lord of the Ringers and the Tower Chimes. Join us!

This Sunday we begin the season of Lent with our theme “Filled to the Brim.” I will preach on the theme of the abundant life found in forgiveness in my sermon entitled: Broken Vessels, Broken Bread and we will celebrate the Sacrament of Communion at both services.

The Psalmist reminds us that we are "fearfully and wonderfully made.”  Come and worship as we are reminded just how much God loves us and be inspired to love yourself just as profoundly!

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey takes on one of the hardest teachings of Jesus - the commandment to love our enemies. 

God wants us to live an abundant and full life!  We’ll explore ways to do just that through the journey of Lent.

This Sunday Rev. Rich Kirchherr will offer the second of his historical moments in the history of our church. The first one was on January 16, and this one is about our missionary minister in India during the 1920s and 30s. His name was the Reverend Ralph Keithahn, and both his time in our church and India were controversial.  Again, historical moments are simply that. However, some continue to raise questions that speak to our faith in 2022. This week, after sharing Rev. Keithahn’s story,  Rich will reflect on the question, “What Does Our Faith Say about Other Religions?”

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr offers his sermon entitled: The Purpose of "We". 

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr will offer a historical minute on a controversy that erupted  not long after our sanctuary was built. It was over a family having the ashes of a loved one interred in the floor of the church.  And it was quite a controversy.  The sermon will wonder about why it was such a difficult topic, and will reflect on what our faith says about the end of life.  The Scripture is John 14.

Churches all around the world traditionally remember the Baptism of Christ on the first Sunday after Epiphany. We will join this global celebration as we remember our own baptisms as well. Katherine Willis Pershey will preach and Lauren Reynolds will serve as liturgist as we return to in-person worship this Sunday.

We will celebrate the Epiphany in this first worship service of the New Year, with special music, Holy Communion, and a brief message from Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey. Bring your juice/wine and bread/crackers to participate in Communion.

Please join us for our traditional lessons and carols for Christmas Eve. Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr will offer a reflection on the theme of “coming home for Christmas”.  Our choir will be accompanied by organist Kathy Christian, and a brass quartet.

On this 4th Sunday of Advent, Rev Meredith Onion will reflect on the beautiful story of Elizabeth and Mary. The bells will ring, the children will sing, and we will light the candle of Love, as we continue our joyful anticipation of the birth of our Savior.

We continue our Advent series, Close to Home, with Pastor Katherine preaching on one of the classic characters of Advent - John the Baptist. John the Baptist’s good news sounds harsh, but he preaches a home for all—where inequities are banished, valleys are lifted up, and all have the resources they need for collective flourishing. Ultimately, John’s message is one of joy. The choir will sing and the candle of joy will be lit.

This Sunday we gather for the second Sunday of advent, and light the candle of peace. Rich will offer a reflection on the theme of anticipation and remembrance. We will celebrate the sacrament of communion.

We will celebrate the First Sunday of Advent as we light the candle of Hope.  Our Advent Sermon series, Close to Home, begins as we explore our deep longing to return home to God.

Ray Klemchuk offers a Thanksgiving Reflection. 

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr offers his annual Thanksgiving Alphabet sermon spelling the word "Congregation". 

The bells are ringing this morning as we joyfully welcome the adult and children's bell choirs back to worship! Katherine Willis Pershey preaches this morning, and during the 10:30 service we will welcome new members into the life of our congregation.

This Sunday we will read the names of members who have passed in the last year, and toll the bell in their memory. Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr will reflect on the idea of everyday saints who are in our midst.

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey will preach on the Greatest Commandment and Peter Kralovec-Kirchherr will serve as worship leader. 

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr will reflect in this Sunday’s sermon on the hopeful future of our church and the promise it can be, despite the challenges of these pandemic days. 

Rev. Phil Jackson joins us this morning to offer his reflection. 

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr will reflect on the complimentary languages of science and faith. Science and religion do not stand in opposition to one another, but rather together give us a more faithful and deeper understanding of our world. So, this Sunday, I will touch on the theme of the intersection of vaccines, evolution, science and faith.

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers her reflection. 

Henri Nouwen once wrote: The beauty of listening is that, those who are listened to start feeling accepted, start taking their words more seriously and discovering their own true selves.  Listening is a form of spiritual hospitality by which you invite strangers to become friends, to get to know their inner selves more fully and even to dare to be silent with you.”  Sunday’s sermon will explore "The Sacred Call to Listening", Part 2.

Henri Nouwen once wrote: The beauty of listening is that, those who are listened to start feeling accepted, start taking their words more seriously and discovering their own true selves.  Listening is a form of spiritual hospitality by which you invite strangers to become friends, to get to know their inner selves more fully and even to dare to be silent with you.”  Sunday’s sermon will explore "The Sacred Call to Listening".

Rev. Dr. RIch Kirchherr reflects on why he feels it is time for our congregation to have the conversation about, and engage the process of, what it would mean to formally include and affirm all people as created in the image of God. This process and congregational wide conversation, might very well include, as a congregation, writing a covenant of welcome, inclusivity and affirmation that all people are children of God.

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers a reflection. 

A reflection from Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey.

We gather together at the All Church Picnic and Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr offers his reflection for the day. 

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr will preach on Jesus’ radical vision of grace. 

Have you ever wondered where the phrase “give us this day our daily bread” comes from? Well guess no longer! Join us as we explore the story of God providing Manna from Heaven to the Israelites, and how we too can find spiritual nourishment each day! We welcome Peter Kralovec-Kirchherr this morning and hear his reflection entitled "Our Daily Bread".

"Ask the Pastor" with Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr. 

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers a reflection. 

Let us join hearts and voices in praise of the Lord! Katherine will preach on a passage from Ephesians, and immediately following the worship service we will hold a brief congregational meeting.

Worship is always intergenerational, but on Sunday, July 18, our worship will be designed to be especially accessible to our children and youth. We will hear a story about Jesus, sing songs and be reminded of the importance of sharing our blessings with others.

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey leads us to reflect on the national holiday in light of our Christian Faith.

Grant Glowiak offers his reflection.

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey will preach on two of Jesus' beloved parables, and we'll witness and celebrate the Sacrament of Baptism for a new member of our community of faith.

Rev. Rich Kirchherr will reflect on the question Jesus asks of his followers (Matthew 16:13​-20): "Who do you say that I am?" How each of us responds is foundational to our faith and living in these days.

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey preaches on Nicodemus, a Pharisee who visited Jesus in the dead of night to ask questions about eternal life and the Kingdom of Heaven. Nicodemus struggles to understand Jesus' teaching, but like many of us, his problem isn't a lack of intelligence. How can these impossible things be true?

One of the more important moments in the life of our church is when our 4th graders receive their Bibles!  Join us for worship on Sunday as we witness this important event and consider our own understanding of the Bible and it’s importance in our lives.

This Sunday is Pentecost, which marks the beginning of the church.  Gathered at Pentecost were people who spoke different languages and were unable to comprehend what they were saying, until the Spirit gave them the gift of understanding. Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr will reflect on our congregation’s shared language and how although diverse in thought, we are united in Christ. 

Diana Johnson reflects on what it means to be a mother.

Diana Johnson shares a Mother's Day Reflection, we celebrate and thank our Sunday School Teachers, and Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey preaches on the invitation to be friends of Christ.

The Good Shepherd - it’s such a familiar story, and yet, there are a few characters in this story that we rarely talk about or even notice.  Join us on Sunday as we explore those often overlooked in this beloved story.

Join our First Congo family worship service to learn how we are rooted in and celebrate God‘s love.

The Psalmist proclaimed, “How very good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity.”  In the days following Easter, the disciples spent their days in wonder and awe, and pondering what their future looked like, and just how they would live together in unity.  This Sunday Rev. Meredith Onion leads worship as we explore these same questions.

On Palm Sunday, we remember that Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem was not a risk-free, palm party. It was a protest parade—a protest against those in power, a parade to prepare the way for a different kind of king. And this was all happening with plots to kill Lazarus (and Jesus) building in the background. We’re reminded that the crowds were brave to show up that day, and that Jesus drew on courage to face his journey to the cross. The root of courage is “cour,” meaning “heart.” Courage is deep within us; drawing on courage is both internal and external. We often find it when we most need it, when everything else has been stripped away.

Listen to: Maybe God is Like that Too!

Ms. hope reads the story: You are So Wonderful. 

We desire for God to write on our hearts so that God’s law can re-shape and re-form us from the inside out. Reformation is a journey of letting the old fall away for something new to emerge, of returning to God’s words over and over, of being drawn into the heart of God. Again & Again, We Are Reformed.

After inviting Nicodemus to be born anew, Jesus tells him in John 3 that God so loved the world that God sent his son to restore it. Therefore, when we read John 3:16​, we remember that Jesus is speaking in metaphor and poetry. Ultimately, love is where God begins and ends. This love, like grace, is a gift we do nothing to deserve. Again and again, love is our refrain. Before we act, think, or believe, can love be first for us too?

Ms. Hope reads the story Because Nothing Looks Like God.

Ms. Hope reads the book entitled: Maybe I Can Love My Neighbor.

Please join Ms. Hope as she reads, Last Stop on Market Street.

Like the disciples, we are often stuck in the pattern of repeating old mistakes, over and over again. Like the disciples, we’d sometimes rather talk at God, than silence ourselves long enough to listen.  Again and again, we are called to listen— to God and to others.

Listen to the story God Gave Us You! read by Ms. Hope.

God meets Jesus at the water before he is tempted in the wilderness—this is important. First and foremost, God claims us. God meets us in the liminal space, at the water’s edge, at the threshold of something new, and names us Beloved. God’s covenant with all of creation reminds us that God meets us where we are—in the midst of our reluctance, doubt, eagerness … and even in the wilderness.

Yes, Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey is on Sabbatical. Given that we are still pre-recording worship out of an abundance of caution, she is still preaching this Sunday! We’ll dwell with the astonishing and inspiring story of the transfiguration of Jesus.

This Sunday’s worship and sermon considers the idea of the blessing of hope. Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr will offer the reflection entitled: Blessing or Jackpot?

"There’s a wideness in God’s mercy." These words reflect the heart of the Good News we will celebrate together. Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey will preach on a story of Jesus’ liberating ministry.

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr will reflect on the questions: Why should congregations and churches still exist in 2021? What might a new normal look like?

We continue to celebrate the season of Epiphany, as Rev> Meredith Onion encourages us to chase the light that overcomes darkness.

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr's sermon is a response to a question that he received from a young person via email: “Is our Christian faith unique from other religions?" The service will also include Communion, so please have your bread and juice when worship begins.

On the Sunday closest to Epiphany, Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr will offer a teaching sermon on the story and power of the journey of the Magi. We marvel at the persistence of God to shine the way for the Magi so that they might bear witness to the divine.   As we journey forward, we carry the dreams of our ancestors in faith. With courage and resilience, we dream on.

This week, we recognize what preceded Mary’s song of praise: news that was disorienting and bewildering, possibly threatening her life. Together, Mary and Elizabeth find courage and comfort in spite of their unusual circumstances. We, too, are called to carry, support, and encourage one another’s dreams.

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr offers his Christmas Eve reflection. 

Rev. Meredith Onion offers a reflection on the 12 days of Christmas.

We hear the story of a fun Christmas party!

Enjoy the story of a woodcarver who visits a very special baby.

Enjoy the story about a young shepherd boy who experiences two Christmas blessings.

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers her sermon.  Ultimately, dreams sow joy, even if that joy doesn’t immediately spring forth. Sowing seeds into the soil always feels risky and feeble—how can something so small become something so beautiful, so big, and so nourishing? Like Mary, we are called to tend and nurture the dreams God has woven into us.

Ms. Hope tells a story about a pig.

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr offers his sermon for the Second Sunday of Advent. 

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers her sermon on the First Sunday of Advent. 

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers her sermon. 

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr offers his annual Thanksgiving Alphabet reflection. 

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr offers his sermon. 

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr offers his sermon. 

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers a sermon. 

Rev. Meredith Onion reflects on discovering Harmony when we’re Centered in Christ, even if we’re diverse in thought.

In these partisan and tension filled days leading up to our election, Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr will consider what a citizen of our nation might pray for.

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr offers a reflection on the gift of sharing a meal that will sustain us in a way that no other meal will.

Sydney Sabbagha tells a story about one of her favorite Christmas treats. 

September 27, 2020 Worship

Setting Sail - Rev. Dr. Richard Kirchherr September marks the 400th anniversary of the Pilgrim’s departure from England to what they hoped would be a new and improved England. Our spiritual forebears came, of course, seeking religious freedom from a hierarchical Church, but they also became a litmus test as to whether a body of people can govern themselves. The only path forward, they believed, was through a covenant; an agreement made before God between people.  In worship this week, Rich reflects on this 400th anniversary and how its legacy shapes us today. The Scripture from which the sermon grows is the New Testament Letter to the Hebrews 8: 7-11.

The Last Motel - Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr reflects on two journeys that end in gratitude and generosity. 

Rev. Meredith Onion offers her sermon. 

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers the final sermon in our Unraveled Sermon series. 

Bill Hoglund offers a simple daily prayer.

Amy Sheriff-Faison offers a simple daily prayer. 

Rev. Meredith Onion continues the sermon series on unraveled. 

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers a simple daily prayer,

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr offers a simply prayer for the day. 

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers a simple daily prayer. 

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr offers a simple prayer for the day. 

Our Unraveled Sermon Series continues with Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey's sermon. 

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers a simple daily prayer. 

Welcome to the First Congregational Church of Western Springs episode of the Unraveled podcast.  This episode features Sydney Sabbagha reflecting on her Freshman year at Hope College. Interested in sharing your unraveled story?  Contact beth@wscongo.org. 

Debbie Stankiewicz offers a simple daily prayer. 

Abby Orndorff offers a simple daily prayer. 

Amy Sheriff-Faison offers a simple daily prayer for the day. 

Amy Sherrif-Faison offers a simple prayer for the day. 

Lauren Branz offers a simple prayer for the day. 

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey offers her sermon - Unraveling Doubt. 

Jeannette Lloyd offers a simple prayer for the day. 

Hope Sabbagha offers a simple prayer for the day. 

Amy Sheriff-Faison offers a simple prayer for the day. 

Hope Sabbagha offers a simple prayer for the day. 

Welcome to the First Congregational Church of Western Springs' episode of the Unraveled podcast.  This episode features Mel and Will Tracy reflecting on Will's health journey.  Interested in sharing your unraveled story? Contact beth@wscongo.org.

Bill Hoglund offers a simple prayer for the day.

Jeannette Lloyd offers a simple prayer for the day, 

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr offers his sermon - Searching. 

Hope Sabbagha, Director of Children's Ministries, shares a daily prayer.

Amy Faison, Director of First Congregational Church of Western Springs Preschool, shares a daily prayer.

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey continues our Summer Sermon Series - Unraveled. 

Rev. Meredith Onion, associate pastor, shares a daily prayer.

Welcome to the First Congregational Church of Western Springs' episode of the Unraveled podcast.  This episode features Laura Tilden reflecting on her faith journey. Interested in sharing your unraveled story?  Contact beth@wscongo.org. 

Peter Lloyd, an officer in the Plymouth Fellowship High School Youth Group, shares a daily prayer.

Peter Lloyd, an officer in the PF High School Youth Group, shares a prayer.

Church member, Rev. Bill Hoglund, shares a daily prayer.

Rev. Leslie Ritter-Jenkins, member of our church, shares a daily prayer.

Rev. Meredith Onion, associate pastor, shares a daily prayer.

Welcome to the First Congregational Church of Western Springs' episode of the Unraveled podcast.  This episode features Cynthia Kos reflecting on her experience as a grandmother.  Interested in sharing your unraveled story?  Contact beth@wscongo.org. 

Abby Wenstrup, Member of our Diaconate, shares a daily prayer.

Rev. Meredith Onion continues our Summer Sermon Series - Unraveled. 

Hope Sabbagha, Director of Children's Ministry, shares a prayer.

Amy Faison, Director of the First Congregational Church of Western Springs Preschool, shares a daily prayer.

Beth Tracy, Office Manager, shares a daily prayer.

Hope Sabbagha, Director of Children's Ministries, shares a daily prayer.

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr continues our Summer Sermon Series - Unraveled. 

Welcome to the First Congregational Church of Western Springs' fifth episode of the Unraveled podcast.  This episodes features Carol Johnson telling the story of the author who wrote the popular hymn, What a Friend We Have in Jesus.

Rev. Leslie Ritter-Jenkins, member of First Congregational Church shares a daily prayer.

Abby Orndorff, Officer in our Plymouth Fellowship High School Youth Group shares a daily prayer.

Connor Madigan, Co-President of the Plymouth Fellowship Youth Group, shares a daily prayer.

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey, associate pastor, shares a daily prayer.

Hope Sabbagha, Director of Children's Ministries, shares a daily prayer.

Welcome to the First Congregational Church of Western Springs' fourth episode of the Unraveled podcast.  This episode features Hope Spangler Mayer reflecting on being a Special Education Teacher in todays environment.  Interested in sharing your unraveled story?  Contact Beth@wscongo.org.

We welcome Peter Kralovec-Kirchherr this morning to reflect on our Summer Sermon Series - Unraveled.

Nanette Farina, a member of our Diaconate, shares a daily prayer.

Kate Graber, officer in our Plymouth Fellowship High School Youth Group, shares a prayer.

Rev. Bill Hoglund, a member, shares a daily prayer.

Thurb Stowell shares a daily prayer.

Mike Tilden shares a daily prayer.

Welcome to the First Congregational Church of Western Springs' third episode of the Unraveled podcast.  This episode features Alex Onion reflecting  on the image of God on Good Friday.  Interested in sharing your unraveled story?  Contact Beth@wscongo.org.

Rev. Meredith Onion shares a daily prayer.

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr answers questions from the Confirmation class. 

Rev. Meredith Onion preaches on Social Justice. 

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey preaches on fear.

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr preaches on laughter.

Hope Sabbagha shares a daily prayer.

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey, associate pastor, shares a daily prayer.

Bill Hoglund shares a daily prayer.

Deb Stankiewicz shares a daily prayer.

Hope Sabbagha shares a daily prayer.

Welcome to the First Congregational Church of Western Springs' second episode of the Unraveled podcast.  This episode features Janice Johnson reflecting on her cab ride in Chicago and how God entwined in her experience.  Interested in sharing your unraveled story?  Contact beth@wscongo.org.

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr shares a daily prayer.

Beth Tracy shares a daily prayer.

Rev. Meredith Onion shares a daily prayer.

Mike Tilden shares a daily prayer.

Hope Sabbagha shares a daily prayer.

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr shares a daily prayer.

Welcome to the First Congregational Church of Western Springs'  first episode of the Unraveled podcast.  This episode features Samantha Tracy reflecting on her Junior year in High School and how God was entwined in her experience.   Interested in sharing your unraveled story?  Contact Beth@wscongo.org.

Rev. Bill Hoglund shares a daily prayer.

Rev. Meredith Onion shares a daily prayer.

Jeannette Lloyd, New Member & Engagement Coordinator, shares a prayer.

Deb Stankiewicz shares a daily prayer.

Hope Sabbagha shares a daily prayer.

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr shares a daily prayer.

Rev. Meredith Onion shares a daily prayer.

Member, Al Pedersen shared a daily prayer.

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey shares a daily prayer.

Ann Stickman, a member of our Prayer Team, shares a prayer.

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey shares a prayer.

Rev. John Rodgers shares a prayer.

Rev. Leslie Ritter-Jenkins shares a prayer.

Rev. John Rodgers shares a prayer.

Sharon Cloghessy shares a prayer.

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey shares a prayer.

Rev. Bill Hoglund shares a prayer.

Beth Tracy shares a prayer.

Rev. Laura Hoglund shares a prayer.

Rev. John Rodgers shares a prayer.

Nancy O'Brien shares a prayer.

Rev. Leslie Ritter-Jenkins shares a prayer.

Rev. Bill Hoglund shares a prayer.

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr shares a prayer.

Beth Tracy shares a prayer.

Hope Sabbagha shares a prayer.

Parish Nurse, Deb Stankiewicz shares a prayer.

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey shares a prayer.

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr shares a prayer.

Rev. Meredith Onion shares a prayer for today.

How to Read the Bible with Healing & Hope - Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Meredith Onion

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Ben Smiley & Fiona Sullivan

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Meredith Onion

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Meredith Onion, Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr, and Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey all share readings about joy.

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Meredith Onion

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Dr. Rev. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Meredith Onion

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Grant Glowiak

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Member, Mel Tracy shares a Father's Day reflection.

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Kristen Graves

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Meredith Onion

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey addresses the children on Easter.

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr on Easter Sunday

Dominic Enrietti & Harper Hill

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Meredith Onion

Rev. Meredith Onion

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Osheta Moore, guest speaker

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Grace Kulat reflects on her experience in the Plymouth Fellowship Youth Group.

Nora Kirby reflects on her experience in the Plymouth Fellowship Youth Group.

Erin Dickett reflects on her experience in the Plymouth Fellowship Youth Group.

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Adult Christian Education Seminar with Chase Dost

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Meredith Onion

Rev. Dr. Rich Kircherr

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Meredith Onion

Hannah Orndorff

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Meredith Onion

Nancy Orr-Depner

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Meredith Onion

Dr. Rev. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Meredith Onion

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Meredith Onion

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr responds to a variety of questions posed by the congregation.

Peter Lloyd and Lauren Branz reflect on the Plymouth Fellowship Freshman Work Tour trip they took to Washington D.C. in June.

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

July 15, 2018 Worship Service

July 15. 2018 worship

2018 July 8, Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Meredith Onion

Trace Mortimer, church member.

Dr. Rev. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Meredith Onion

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr

Church member, Nancy Kurth, reflects on motherhood.

Rev. Meredith Onion

Dr. Rev. Rich Kirchherr

Dr. Rev. Rich Kirchherr addresses the Confirmands on Confirmation Sunday.

Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey

Sermon by Rev. Meredith Onion, For the Long Haul, 4/15/18

Sermon by Rev. Katherine Willis Pershey, After Easter, 4/8/18

Easter Sunday Sermon, Rev. Dr. Rich Kirchherr