Ministries

EXECUTIVE COUNCIL

The Executive Council has the responsibility of articulating and advancing the mission of the Church. The Council is accountable to the Congregation and draws upon the resources of the Congregation in fulfilling its responsibilities. The Council is aided by the Church’s staff as well as by the Standing Committees. The Standing Committees are responsible for overseeing the operations of the church.

Current Executive Council Members:

Anne Sprague, Moderator

Rebecca Bandy, Clerk

Mike Schmid, Treasurer

Ken Cheek

RuthAnn Clark

Linda Gates

Dave Kelley

Carol Longsworth

Gene Matthews

To email any of the current members, please see your instant church directory.

FINNEY CHOIR & MUSIC MINISTRIES

Music at First Church has always been an extraordinary offering and in abundance. It is an important aspect of each worship service and important to the life of the congregation. From classical organ to jazz - from children's choir to vocal soloists - there is something for everyone. First Church frequently welcomes musical groups from Oberlin, as well as, many other communities. Quarterly Music at the Meeting House concerts are held for the public, in addition to concerts and fundraisers for local organizations. Oberlin College Conservatory students hold recitals and graciously combine their musical talents with our members in the Finney Choir and the Bel Canto Handbells.

For more information, please contact Dr. Thomas Bandy, Director of Music at First Church.

GREEN TEAM

As a Green Justice Church, The First Church in Oberlin Green Team works to educate ourselves on issues of environmental sustainability and to encourage actions at the individual, congregational, and denominational levels (and in the wider Oberlin community) to foster environmental responsibility. At First Church in Oberlin, we act through advocacy, education and ecologically-sustainable practices, that recognizes our stewardship of God’s creation.

The Green Team meets at the church on the third Thursday of every month at 5pm. To receive and invitation to join our meetings contact the office at The First Church in Oberlin at 440-775-1711.

STANDING COMMITTEES

The Standing Committees at First Church are responsible for overseeing the operations of the church. Each Committee is led by a chairperson, has one assigned Executive Council liaison and six team members. Some Standing Committees have ad-hoc committees, or sub-committees.

First Church Standing Commitees:

To email any of the current chairs, please see your instant church directory.

Faith Formation [Christian Education], Val Kepner

Facilities, Erik Andrews

Fellowship, Sandy Matthews

Finance, Pete Richards

Nominating, Erik Andrews

Outreach & Service, No current chair, see directory for current members

Personnel, Anne Sprague

Stewardship, Ralph Thompson

Witness & Membership, Harold Slocum

Worship, Peter Thomas

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Ad-Hoc Committees and Task Groups:

Architect

Capital Campaign Committee

History

CALLED TO CARE

The Called to Care Ministry prayers for members and friends at any time a request is made. The ministry is also available for anyone in a time of need. Whether you need help with transportation or meals due to an illness or family emergency, a team of First Church members can respond.

Other examples of ways to care for our neighbors are food and item collections, youth mission trips, Day of Service events and other planned service opportunities.

For more information regarding ways to get involved with a Caring Ministry, please contact the church office.

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” - Mark 12:30-31 (NIV)

FIRST CHURCH STATEMENT ON ANTI-RACISM

The First Church in Oberlin Anti-Racism Statement was prepared by the Christian Outreach and Service Committee and approved by Executive Council. We encourage congregation members to reflect deeply on the statement. The Committee has also prepared the document Anti-Racism Resources for the First Church in Oberlin UCC. It is our hope that you will choose resources that speak to you and to find a way of engaging with the community. Keep in mind that the list is a work in progress and feedback will be welcome.