Thomas' Voice - A Gift Giving Place

I first heard about this church from a member of the Training and Care Committee of the Regional Church. Stefano, my partner, and I had just moved to Northern California and were searching for a church home. We were encouraged to come to First Christian Church.

What I have found here is welcoming people who love me as I am. Our people do a wonderful job of constantly reminding me how much they care. As a full-time seminary student our church gives me a wonderful classroom to see God’s love work.

Last Pentecost, our church created a party like atmosphere for worship. At the time I was a member of the Ministry Council who created the service. There were red balloons everywhere, everyone dressed in red, and the communion table was decorated so beautifully. The high point of the service for me was the gift giving that we encouraged all members to do. Each member was asked to bring a wrapped gift for the church (e.g., their time, talent, ability) and place it in a huge basket in the front. Planning this service was great, but watching it was brilliant!

The church has given me an opportunity to share my gift of website creation. Words cannot describe the feeling I get when I see the church’s web site and know I had a part in it. For me, it is worship to get in front of my computer and update this website.

As I work toward ordination in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), I am grateful for the role of this church in my life. God has showered me with many blessings. . . . this church is one of those blessings.