First Congregational Church of Riverside

Rev. Dr. Jodi Bushdiecker's sermon, “Wisdom for the Way,” explores the relevance of the Ten Commandments in our secularized, postmodern world. How do we embrace God's Rule of Love in a polarized society threatened by Christian Nationalism? How can the Ten Commandments inform our response to the violence, injustice, and ethical dilemmas of our time?

"Jesus invites us to reflect on why we do what we do, both in the church and in our daily lives. He also challenges us to consider how certain customs, norms, and rules may affect the people we are trying to reach, especially when generational differences create barriers to understanding, connection, or participation.”

In times of uncertainty, hope encourages us to acknowledge that we are agents of change who work faithfully even when challenges arise. Just as the Jewish community was called to build houses, plant gardens, and multiply, God invites us to continue trusting that God desires our welfare and will sustain us as we serve our community.

We’re delighted to welcome The Reverend Doctor Ronald Thomas Evans (Ron) as our guest preacher this Sunday.
A native New Englander, Ron has spent a lifetime serving, teaching, traveling, and building community. Before retiring, he served with the International Y.M.C.A. in East Africa and Geneva, taught at New England prep schools and Yale, and served as Senior Minister of two United Church of Christ congregations—10 years in Deerfield, Massachusetts, and 25 years in Darien, Connecticut.

Since 2007, Ron and his wife of 62 years, Janet, have called Pilgrim Place in Claremont home.

His life has included far more than ministry—he has been a sports official, volunteer firefighter, Fire Department Chaplain, steeple-jack, storyteller, fundraiser, NPR commentator, and much more. He especially enjoys reading, music, walking, travel, film, theater, art museums, and, above all, good conversation.

We hope you’ll join us for a special morning of worship, reflection, and community. ALL are welcome!

Before anyone shakes your hand at First Congregational Church, something greets you. Front and center in the narthex, words declare who this community is: extravagantly inclusive, called to comfort and challenger, and in all things to love one another. But a promise on a sign is only the beginning — the real question is whether people can read it on us. This Sunday, guest preacher Rev Benita A. Ramsey preaches “Front & Center” — and we gather at Christ’s open table, where the welcome on the sign becomes bread in an open hand. Communion Sunday, September 6. All are welcome. Truly.

Jesus was our best teacher on creating and maintaining healthy relationships. Additionally, the Apostle Paul taught his churches about the importance of healthy relationships. We can not have healthy relationships unless we love one another just as God loves us. This is, however, possible through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit working in and through us: to find healing and reconciliation. Healthy relationships create a healthy church and a healthy society.