{"id":4432,"date":"2021-01-29T16:51:24","date_gmt":"2021-01-29T21:51:24","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/?page_id=4432"},"modified":"2025-12-24T09:56:17","modified_gmt":"2025-12-24T14:56:17","slug":"about-us","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/index.php\/about-us\/","title":{"rendered":"About Us"},"content":{"rendered":"<style type=\"text\/css\"> \n#cmsmasters_row_69d818bcafb7c0_04196557 { \n\tbackground-color:#e3aa3d;\n} \n\n#cmsmasters_row_69d818bcafb7c0_04196557 .cmsmasters_row_outer_parent { \n\tpadding-top: 100px; \n} \n\n#cmsmasters_row_69d818bcafb7c0_04196557 .cmsmasters_row_outer_parent { \n\tpadding-bottom: 100px; \n} \n\n#cmsmasters_row_69d818bcafb7c0_04196557 .cmsmasters_row_inner.cmsmasters_row_fullwidth { \n\tpadding-left:15%; \n} \n#cmsmasters_row_69d818bcafb7c0_04196557 .cmsmasters_row_inner.cmsmasters_row_fullwidth { \n\tpadding-right:15%; \n} \n \n#cmsmasters_heading_69d818bcafcf17_33202429 { \n\ttext-align:center; \n\tmargin-top:20px; 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Identity<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"cmsmasters_row_69d818bcafdc44_38972314\" class=\"cmsmasters_row cmsmasters_color_scheme_default cmsmasters_row_top_default cmsmasters_row_bot_default cmsmasters_row_boxed\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer_parent\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_inner\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_margin\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_column one_first\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_text\">\n<h2><strong>We are a UCC congregation in the heart of Washington, D.C., led by the Spirit and in covenant with God and each other.\u00a0 We seek to understand and experience God and respond to the call of Christ as reflected in our heritage and today\u2019s experiences.<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_text\">\n<p>We welcome people of all ages, abilities, racial and cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations and gender identities, and beliefs to share and grow in faith through worship, prayer, education, mutual support, and social action.<\/p>\n<p>In so doing, by God\u2019s grace, we nourish each other, embrace spiritual transformation, stand for justice and peace, and strive to heal our city, nation, and the world.<\/p>\n<p>Read more about our church in the profile we wrote for our 2017 search for a senior pastor\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/FCUCC-Church-Profile-9.23.17.pdf\">here<\/a>, and click <a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Anti-Racism_Statement_for_hearing.pdf\">here<\/a> for our statement on anti-racism.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/RJA-Comprehensive-Report-2-1.pdf\">Click here to read the Racial Justice Audit Report we conducted in 2021.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"cmsmasters_row_69d818bcaff9f2_81472796\" class=\"cmsmasters_row cmsmasters_color_scheme_default cmsmasters_row_top_default cmsmasters_row_bot_default cmsmasters_row_boxed\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer_parent\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_inner\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_margin\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_column one_first\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggles toggles_mode_toggle\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_wrap\" data-tags=\"all \">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_title\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_hor\"><\/span>\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_vert\"><\/span>\n<\/span>\n<a href=\"#\">Church Covenant<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_inner\">\n<p>In grateful response to the call of Jesus Christ, we covenant with God and with each other to be a Church of Christ. We bind ourselves, in God\u2019s redeeming presence, to walk together in ways revealed to us by the Holy Spirit in sacrament and Word, study and prayer, fellowship and mission.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"cmsmasters_row_69d818bcb018c9_25037590\" class=\"cmsmasters_row cmsmasters_color_scheme_default cmsmasters_row_top_default cmsmasters_row_bot_default cmsmasters_row_boxed\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer_parent\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_inner\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_margin\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_column one_first\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggles toggles_mode_toggle\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_wrap\" data-tags=\"all \">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_title\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_hor\"><\/span>\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_vert\"><\/span>\n<\/span>\n<a href=\"#\">Our Testimony<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_inner\">\n<p><em>We give our testimony using the \u201cStatement of Faith\u00a0of the United Church of Christ\u201d:<\/em><\/p>\n<p>We believe in You, O God, Eternal Spirit, God of our Lord Jesus Christ and our God, and to Your deeds we testify.<\/p>\n<p>You call the worlds into being,<br \/>\ncreate us in Your own image,<br \/>\nand set before us the ways of life and death.<\/p>\n<p>You seek in holy love to save all people from aimlessness and sin.<br \/>\nYou judge us by Your righteous will<br \/>\ndeclared through prophets and apostles.<\/p>\n<p>In Jesus Christ, the man of Nazareth, our crucified and risen Lord,<br \/>\nYou have come to us and shared our common lot,<br \/>\nconquering sin and death<br \/>\nand reconciling the world to Yourself.<\/p>\n<p>You bestow upon us Your Holy Spirit,<br \/>\ncreating and renewing the church of Jesus Christ,<br \/>\nbinding in covenant faithful people of all ages, tongues, and nations.<\/p>\n<p>You call us into Your church<br \/>\nto accept the cost and joy of discipleship,<br \/>\nto be Your servants in the service of humanity,<br \/>\nto proclaim the gospel to all the world and resist the powers of evil,<br \/>\nto share in Christ\u2019s baptism and eat at his table,<br \/>\nto join him in his passion and victory.<\/p>\n<p>You promise to all who trust You<br \/>\nforgiveness of sins and fullness of grace,<br \/>\ncourage in the struggle for justice and peace<br \/>\nYour presence in trial and rejoicing,<br \/>\nand eternal life in Your kingdom which has no end.<\/p>\n<p>Blessing and honor, glory and power be unto You! Amen.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"cmsmasters_row_69d818bcb04632_32178393\" class=\"cmsmasters_row cmsmasters_color_scheme_default cmsmasters_row_top_default cmsmasters_row_bot_default cmsmasters_row_boxed\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer_parent\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_inner\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_margin\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_column one_third\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggles toggles_mode_toggle\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_wrap\" data-tags=\"all \">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_title\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_hor\"><\/span>\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_vert\"><\/span>\n<\/span>\n<a href=\"#\">We are a community gathered through covenants.<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_inner\">\n<p>At First Congregational United Church of Christ of Washington, DC we assert that community responsibilities and steadfast love balance autonomy and freedom. We affirm that faith and life are nourished by \u201ccovenants,\u201d beginning with God\u2019s covenant with Noah, Abraham, Moses, enriched by a new covenant in Jesus Christ, and sustained by mutual covenants we strive to keep with each other.<\/p>\n<p>As a Congregational Church founded in 1865 we have been deeply involved in the history of Washington, DC.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/fccucc-centennial-history1.pdf\">Click here to read the centennial history of the church<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>As part of a national denomination known as the United Church of Christ we remain deeply rooted in history and at the same time we engage the future to explore new forms of faithfulness.<\/p>\n<p>We do not all agree, however we know that community is important and we come together to keep each other grounded in times of stress and receptive to the wonder of life in times of joy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_column one_third\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggles toggles_mode_toggle\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_wrap\" data-tags=\"all \">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_title\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_hor\"><\/span>\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_vert\"><\/span>\n<\/span>\n<a href=\"#\">We approach the Bible seriously but not literally.<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_inner\">\n<ul>\n<li>Preachers share insights and challenges based on scripture texts<\/li>\n<li>Bible study sessions foster discussions among small groups<\/li>\n<li>Educational programs introduce children and youth to Biblical stories and values<\/li>\n<li>Music stretches our understandings beyond words<\/li>\n<li>Prayers share concerns and celebrations<\/li>\n<li>Our community is bound together by covenants<\/li>\n<li>We have courage to doubt, and we have confidence that God is still speaking<\/li>\n<li>We are in covenant with others through the United Church of Christ<\/li>\n<li>We come together through covenants, not because we agree on doctrines<\/li>\n<li>We consider \u201cfaith\u201d a verb rather than a noun, a journey rather than a destination<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_column one_third\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggles toggles_mode_toggle\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_wrap\" data-tags=\"all \">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_title\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_hor\"><\/span>\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_vert\"><\/span>\n<\/span>\n<a href=\"#\">We are ready to witness God\u2032s love in social action &amp; justice.<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_inner\">\n<p>We have taken \u201cstands\u201d around specific issues. Founded in 1865 by abolitionists as the first racially integrated church in Washington, we have publicly sustained long standing commitments to racial justice. We are an <strong><em>\u201copen and affirming church\u201d (ONA)<\/em><\/strong>, welcoming LGBTQ friends and supporting marriage equality. We are a <strong><em>\u201cjust peace church,\u201d<\/em><\/strong> committed to peace with justice. We are a people aspiring to be a<strong><em> \u201cmultiracial, multicultural church,\u201d<\/em> <\/strong>celebrating diversity and building bridges in our diverse society.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Open and Affirming<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<p>In 1973, First Church voted to enter into covenant with, and serve as host church for the Washington Metropolitan Community Church or MCC (a church that ministers predominantly to the GLBT community). That decision cost us some members well before the wider religious community took on this issue. In 1987 we formally became an Open and Affirming (ONA) church in the United Church of Christ. Read our\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/index.php\/open-and-affirming-statement\/\">Open and Affirming Statement<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Just Peace Church<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<p>In 1985 First Church voted be a Just Peace Church, focusing on the ways justice and peace are related to a range of issues, such as political struggles in Latin America and South Africa, race relations in the U.S., struggles for economic justice, and arms control. Read our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/index.php\/just-peace-church\/\">Statement on Being a Just Peace Church<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><strong><em>A Multiracial Multicultural Church<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>In 2003, after a prolonged study, First Church voted to affirm a vision to become a more Multiracial Multicultural Church. Read our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/index.php\/multiracial-and-multicultural-vision\/\">Multiracial and Multicultural Vision<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"cmsmasters_row_69d818bcb0b481_04836034\" class=\"cmsmasters_row cmsmasters_color_scheme_default cmsmasters_row_top_default cmsmasters_row_bot_default cmsmasters_row_fullwidth\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer_parent\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_inner cmsmasters_row_fullwidth\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_margin\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_column one_first\">\n\n<div id=\"cmsmasters_heading_69d818bcb0bb37_60286754\" class=\"cmsmasters_heading_wrap cmsmasters_heading_align_center\">\n\t<h1 class=\"cmsmasters_heading\">History<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"cmsmasters_row_69d818bcb0bf78_23886550\" class=\"cmsmasters_row cmsmasters_color_scheme_default cmsmasters_row_top_default cmsmasters_row_bot_default cmsmasters_row_boxed\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer_parent\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_inner\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_margin\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_column one_first\">\n<div class=\"custom_html\">\n<p><center><iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/zctSAwgjxtc\" width=\"560\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/center><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggles toggles_mode_toggle\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_wrap\" data-tags=\"all \">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_title\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_hor\"><\/span>\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_vert\"><\/span>\n<\/span>\n<a href=\"#\">Setting the Foundation (1861-1865)<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_inner\">\n<p><em><strong>1861:<\/strong><\/em> The City of Washington has 56 churches and 90,000 inhabitants, of whom about 2,000 are federal employees. It is a southern city hostile to Congregationalism, which is identified with northern abolitionism.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>1865:<\/strong><\/em>\u00a0Washington grows to a city of 150,000, of whom 6,000 are federal employees, but only four new churches are added. The election of Abraham Lincoln as president, representing a new political party particularly resonant in New England and the Northwest, bring into Washington a sizable group of persons loyal to the new party and its principles. In addition, the Federal Government grows much larger as the Civil War lengthened and war-time logistics made its need manifest. It takes several years for newly-transplanted-from-New England Washingtonians to meet one another, to grow to a size large enough to consider action, to find leadership, and to decide they are not temporary sojourners in the nation\u2019s capital.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>September 17, 1865:<\/strong><\/em> A group of Washington Congregationalists has their first public service of worship.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>November 15, 1865:<\/strong> <\/em>One hundred and four persons, who three days earlier had covenanted together to be a new Church, stand before a Congregational Council of representatives from other Congregational churches and are recognized as the First Congregational Church of Washington, DC.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_wrap\" data-tags=\"all \">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_title\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_hor\"><\/span>\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_vert\"><\/span>\n<\/span>\n<a href=\"#\">First UCC Begins to Form (1865-1869)<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_inner\">\n<p><em><strong>1865:\u00a0<\/strong><\/em>The first minister is the Reverend C. B. Boynton, who is at the time Chaplain of the United States House of Representatives. The congregation quickly outgrows its worship spaces at the Unitarian Church (6th and D St NW), Metzerotte Hall (Pennsylvania Ave near 9th St NW), and the Law School of Columbia College, before beginning worship in the House of Representatives chambers in the Capitol.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>May 1868:<\/strong><\/em> Due to the often 2,000 people who flock to hear Dr. Boynton each Sunday, the congregation moves into its new home at 10th and G St NW. Its large brick building makes a statement \u2013 the Congregationalists are here to stay.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>1867:\u00a0<\/strong><\/em>The church works diligently to use its Sunday school for basic education and to establish other schools to teach freed slaves. First Church plays a crucial role in the founding of Howard University to promote higher education for African Americans. The church later assists and gives financial support to African Americans who want to organize independent Congregational churches. Lincoln Temple Congregational UCC and Peoples Congregational UCC are among the beneficiaries. Over the church\u2019s 150 year history, First Church has mothered or mentored five other churches in the Washington, DC area.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>1869:<\/strong><\/em> Despite the church\u2019s abolitionist beginnings and work for racial justice, internal disagreement regarding whether its calling is to help freed African Americans start their own churches or to accept them as members of First Church causes members resisting \u201cintegration,\u201d including Dr. Boynton, to splinter. When the church divides over integration and segregationists leave, Howard University saves the church by buying the note.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_wrap\" data-tags=\"all \">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_title\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_hor\"><\/span>\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_vert\"><\/span>\n<\/span>\n<a href=\"#\">Becoming a Just and Loving Community (1950-1987)<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_inner\">\n<p><em><strong>1950\u2019s:<\/strong><\/em> The church\u2019s original, and almost 90 year old, building is declared unsafe during a time where other downtown churches are leaving the inner city and moving into the expanding Washington neighborhoods to be closer to members. Church leaders begin to propose moving First Church, but its \u201cCongregational Church\u201d nature requires all major decisions be made by congregational vote. Much to the surprise of the leaders, the congregation soundly rejects the relocation recommendation by a 3:1 margin. Although several church leadership resign and some members leave, the congregation remains committed to stay in the city.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>1957:<\/strong><\/em> The United Church of Christ is founded. In its over 55 year life, the UCC has effectively overcome historical divisions and actively promoted social justice and radical hospitality. First Church, and neighboring Grace Reformed Church on 15th St, become part of the UCC.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>1960\u2019s:<\/strong> <\/em>First Church remains engaged in civil rights and racial justice, and the sanctuary was one of the few large halls in Washington, DC, that would host an interracial meeting. First Church acts as a staging area for the 1963 March on Washington.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>1961:<\/strong><\/em> The church moves into a newly rebuilt space after the old building is demolished. First Church worships at the Chinese Baptist Church in Chinatown during construction.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>1970\u2019s and 1980<\/strong><\/em><em><strong>\u2018s:<\/strong><\/em> First church provides space and support for the new Metropolitan Community Church of Washington, DC, which was one of the earliest gay and lesbian congregations in the DC area. In collaboration with MCC, First Church launches the Dinner Program for Homeless Women.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>1980\u2019s:<\/strong><\/em> The church joins a UCC initiative to become a Just Peace church, rejecting war and working for peace.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>1987:<\/strong> <\/em>First Church officially votes to become an Open and Affirming congregation in the UCC, welcoming all people regardless of sexual identity. It is the 14th local congregation in the entire denomination of over 5,000 churches to take this step.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_wrap\" data-tags=\"all \">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_title\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_hor\"><\/span>\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_vert\"><\/span>\n<\/span>\n<a href=\"#\">God is Still Speaking (2000-Today)<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_inner\">\n<p><em><strong>2000\u2019s:<\/strong> <\/em>First Church moves out of the location at 10th and G St NW for yet another much-needed restoration, worshipping in the afternoons at First Trinity Lutheran Church in Judiciary Square. The Dinner Program moves with First Church but soon becomes too big for the First Trinity space and its intended home at 10th and G. The program is reorganized as an independent organization, Thrive, DC, and provides meals and support for homeless men and women at a new location.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>2003: <\/strong><\/em>The church passes a resolution aspiring to be a multiracial-multicultural church.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>2007: <\/strong><\/em>The congregation moved out of the middle church to allow for the construction of new building at 10th &amp; G.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>2012:<\/strong> <\/em>The congregation returns to its home since 1868 after overcoming funding struggles and leadership changes.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Today:\u00a0<\/strong><\/em>First Congregational United Church of Christ in Washington, DC is reinventing itself \u2013 building on its longstanding loyalty to the city, strengthened by ties to the United Church of Christ, and nourished by new leaders and members. The church remains deeply rooted in its history and at the same time faithfully claiming a new future. God is still speaking and we are listening.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"cmsmasters_row_69d818bcb15d86_57965748\" class=\"cmsmasters_row cmsmasters_color_scheme_default cmsmasters_row_top_default cmsmasters_row_bot_default cmsmasters_row_fullwidth\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer_parent\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_inner cmsmasters_row_fullwidth\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_margin\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_column one_first\">\n\n<div id=\"cmsmasters_heading_69d818bcb163e1_90145128\" class=\"cmsmasters_heading_wrap cmsmasters_heading_align_center\">\n\t<h1 class=\"cmsmasters_heading\">Leadership &amp; Staff<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"cmsmasters_row_69d818bcb166f7_61692341\" class=\"cmsmasters_row cmsmasters_color_scheme_default cmsmasters_row_top_default cmsmasters_row_bot_default cmsmasters_row_boxed\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer_parent\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_inner\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_margin\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_column one_first\">\n<div id=\"69d818bcb17355_56037347\" class=\"cmsmasters_profile vertical\">\n\r\n<!--_________________________ Start Vertical Profile _________________________ -->\r\n\r\n<article id=\"post-5098\" class=\"cmsmasters_profile_vertical post-5098 profile type-profile status-publish has-post-thumbnail hentry\">\r\n\t<div class=\"profile_outer\">\r\n\t<div class=\"cmsmasters_profile_img_wrap\"><figure class=\"cmsmasters_img_rollover_wrap preloader\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/AHV-portrait-21-2-300x300.jpg\" class=\"full-width wp-post-image\" alt=\"Rev. Amanda Hendler Voss\" title=\"Rev. Amanda Hendler Voss\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/AHV-portrait-21-2-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/AHV-portrait-21-2-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/AHV-portrait-21-2-70x70.jpg 70w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/AHV-portrait-21-2-360x360.jpg 360w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/AHV-portrait-21-2-580x580.jpg 580w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><div class=\"cmsmasters_img_rollover\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/index.php\/MINISTERS\/rev-amanda-hendler-voss\/\" title=\"Rev. Amanda Hendler Voss\" class=\"cmsmasters_open_post_link cmsmasters_theme_icon_post_link\"><\/a><\/div><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"profile_inner\"><header class=\"cmsmasters_profile_header entry-header\"><h2 class=\"cmsmasters_profile_title entry-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/index.php\/MINISTERS\/rev-amanda-hendler-voss\/\">Rev. Amanda Hendler Voss<\/a><\/h2><h4 class=\"cmsmasters_profile_subtitle\">Senior Minister<\/h4><\/header><div class=\"profile_social_icons\"><ul class=\"profile_social_icons_list\"><li><a href=\"mailto:ahendlervoss@gmail.com\" class=\"cmsmasters_social_icon cmsmasters_social_icon_69d818bcb7ce5 cmsmasters-icon-inbox-5\" title=\"Email Amanda\"><\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><div class=\"cl\"><\/div><div class=\"cmsmasters_profile_content entry-content\">\n<p>The Rev. Amanda Hendler-Voss joyfully serves the community of First Church as the Senior Minister. Raised in a suburb of Detroit, working for the Appalachia Service Project cultivated a love for the mountains that compelled her to move south. There, she initially worked with those living with HIV\/AIDS and fell in love with the United Church of Christ, an open and affirming denomination. As a Woodruff scholar at Candler School of Theology at Emory University in Atlanta, Amanda earned her Masters of Divinity with certificates in Black Church Studies and Church and Community programs. In Atlanta she coordinated the Georgia chapter of Women\u2019s Action for New Directions (WAND), organizing anti-war protests and educational programs, as well as authoring a new curriculum, Faith Seeking Peace, on redirecting federal budget priorities to meet human and environmental needs.<\/p>\n<p>Amanda was ordained in the western North Carolina Association of the UCC in 2006 while serving as a Minister of Faith Formation. In 2009, Amanda co-founded the thriving community of Land of the Sky United Church of Christ in Asheville, NC, where she served as Co-Pastor for eight years in an intentional, power-sharing model. Her vocation as a pastor is shaped by Amanda\u2019s particular calling to racial justice. At Land of the Sky UCC she launched a racial justice ministry in which she co-led dismantling racism training, engaged in a racial justice audit of ministries, created programming for children and youth to highlight the testimonies of local leaders of color, and launched conversations about reparations. In August of 2017, she engaged in sacred activism in Charlottesville where she served as an on-call chaplain to those impacted by the tragic violence of white supremacy. Amanda recently completed a yearlong training as part of the first cohort of UCC leaders equipped to facilitate Sacred Conversations to End Racism 2. She consistently seeks new opportunities to learn and grow on the lifelong journey of dismantling racism within and without.<\/p>\n<p>In 2017, Amanda relocated to northern Virginia with her spouse, Seth, and boys, Myles (13) and Simon (7) to enter a reflective season of ministry. A lover of words and contemplative spirituality, Amanda has served in recent years as a freelance writer, Spiritual Director, and Co-Facilitator of a clergy Community of Practice in the Potomac Association. She enjoys hiking, baking, running, reading, and snuggling her adopted dog, Ginger. Perhaps most importantly, she seeks to honor the sacred in every person she encounters and the well-being of the Earth\u2019s family of all living things.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\t<\/div>\r\n<\/article>\r\n<!--_________________________ Finish Vertical Profile _________________________ -->\r\n\r\n\r\n<!--_________________________ Start Vertical Profile _________________________ -->\r\n\r\n<article id=\"post-5106\" class=\"cmsmasters_profile_vertical post-5106 profile type-profile status-publish has-post-thumbnail hentry\">\r\n\t<div class=\"profile_outer\">\r\n\t<div class=\"cmsmasters_profile_img_wrap\"><figure class=\"cmsmasters_img_rollover_wrap preloader\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"185\" height=\"199\" src=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/FirstUCCDC_Oct2017-306-1-300x200-3.jpg\" class=\"full-width wp-post-image\" alt=\"Rev. Sam McFerran\" title=\"Rev. Sam McFerran\" \/><div class=\"cmsmasters_img_rollover\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/index.php\/MINISTERS\/rev-sam-mcferran\/\" title=\"Rev. Sam McFerran\" class=\"cmsmasters_open_post_link cmsmasters_theme_icon_post_link\"><\/a><\/div><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"profile_inner\"><header class=\"cmsmasters_profile_header entry-header\"><h2 class=\"cmsmasters_profile_title entry-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/index.php\/MINISTERS\/rev-sam-mcferran\/\">Rev. Sam McFerran<\/a><\/h2><h4 class=\"cmsmasters_profile_subtitle\">Associate Minister<\/h4><\/header><div class=\"profile_social_icons\"><ul class=\"profile_social_icons_list\"><li><a href=\"mailto:mcferran.sam@gmail.com\" class=\"cmsmasters_social_icon cmsmasters_social_icon_69d818bcb8f59 cmsmasters-icon-inbox-5\" title=\"\"><\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><div class=\"cl\"><\/div><div class=\"cmsmasters_profile_content entry-content\">\n<p>Sam is grateful to serve alongside the First Church community as Associate Minister. He feels called to create a space to help all ages, from infants to adults, sense God\u2019s presence in their lives. Sam desires to make the church more about how we relate to God and with one another than a static adherence to tradition, creed, or even our history. He believes God is still speaking, and through Sunday school, service, story sharing and song, prayer and acts of solidarity with the marginalized, that we are provided opportunities to hear God\u2019s call and act upon it. Sam is ordained in the Presbyterian Church (PCUSA) and a graduate of Union Presbyterian Seminary, the University of Kansas, and Haverford College. He is joined by his wife, Lauren, and their two sons, Brendan and Ryan. Sam loves the Nationals, playing baseball, and living in DC!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\t<\/div>\r\n<\/article>\r\n<!--_________________________ Finish Vertical Profile _________________________ -->\r\n\r\n\r\n<!--_________________________ Start Vertical Profile _________________________ -->\r\n\r\n<article id=\"post-5116\" class=\"cmsmasters_profile_vertical post-5116 profile type-profile status-publish has-post-thumbnail hentry\">\r\n\t<div class=\"profile_outer\">\r\n\t<div class=\"cmsmasters_profile_img_wrap\"><figure class=\"cmsmasters_img_rollover_wrap preloader\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"135\" height=\"134\" src=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Byron.jpg\" class=\"full-width wp-post-image\" alt=\"Byron Adams\" title=\"Byron Adams\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Byron.jpg 135w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Byron-70x70.jpg 70w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Byron-100x100.jpg 100w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 135px) 100vw, 135px\" \/><div class=\"cmsmasters_img_rollover\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/index.php\/MINISTERS\/byron-adams\/\" title=\"Byron Adams\" class=\"cmsmasters_open_post_link cmsmasters_theme_icon_post_link\"><\/a><\/div><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"profile_inner\"><header class=\"cmsmasters_profile_header entry-header\"><h2 class=\"cmsmasters_profile_title entry-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/index.php\/MINISTERS\/byron-adams\/\">Byron Adams<\/a><\/h2><h4 class=\"cmsmasters_profile_subtitle\">Building Manager<\/h4><\/header><div class=\"profile_social_icons\"><ul class=\"profile_social_icons_list\"><li><a href=\"mailto:badams@firstuccdc.org\" class=\"cmsmasters_social_icon cmsmasters_social_icon_69d818bcb9fcf cmsmasters-icon-inbox-5\" title=\"\"><\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><div class=\"cl\"><\/div><div class=\"cmsmasters_profile_content entry-content\">\n<p>Byron devotes his church hours to building relationships with a variety of organizations in the Greater Washington region (including Ford\u2019s Theater, Washington Bach Consort, The Thirteen Choir, New Orchestra of Washington, Choral Arts Society, and many others) who use the church\u2019s space for concerts, lectures, forums, classes, and more. His service on the Site Development Design Team and a career in marketing and event management gives him a unique perspective on how the building can be used and promoted to build the wider community in the heart of the city. He is a graduate of Georgetown University and has studied Spanish through immersion language training in Chiapas, Mexico and San Jose, Costa Rica. Building Manager Hours are Tuesday through Friday, 8:30 AM \u2013 4:30PM.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\t<\/div>\r\n<\/article>\r\n<!--_________________________ Finish Vertical Profile _________________________ -->\r\n\r\n\r\n<!--_________________________ Start Vertical Profile _________________________ -->\r\n\r\n<article id=\"post-7442\" class=\"cmsmasters_profile_vertical post-7442 profile type-profile status-publish has-post-thumbnail hentry\">\r\n\t<div class=\"profile_outer\">\r\n\t<div class=\"cmsmasters_profile_img_wrap\"><figure class=\"cmsmasters_img_rollover_wrap preloader\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/WM-picture-300x300.jpg\" class=\"full-width wp-post-image\" alt=\"Whitney McColley\" title=\"Whitney McColley\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/WM-picture-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/WM-picture-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/WM-picture-70x70.jpg 70w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/WM-picture-360x360.jpg 360w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/WM-picture-580x580.jpg 580w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><div class=\"cmsmasters_img_rollover\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/index.php\/MINISTERS\/whitney-mccolley\/\" title=\"Whitney McColley\" class=\"cmsmasters_open_post_link cmsmasters_theme_icon_post_link\"><\/a><\/div><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"profile_inner\"><header class=\"cmsmasters_profile_header entry-header\"><h2 class=\"cmsmasters_profile_title entry-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/index.php\/MINISTERS\/whitney-mccolley\/\">Whitney McColley<\/a><\/h2><h4 class=\"cmsmasters_profile_subtitle\">Administrative Assistant<\/h4><\/header><div class=\"cl\"><\/div><div class=\"cmsmasters_profile_content entry-content\">\n<p>Whitney joined First Congregational UCC as the Administrative Assistant in February 2023 and is thrilled to be supporting the life and mission of the church. She studied classical voice at Ithaca College (B.M.) and Boston University (M.M.) before moving \u201cbehind-the-scenes\u201d to work in arts administration. She worked in fundraising, personnel management, and production for organizations including Chorus America, Washington National Opera, The Choral Arts Society of Washington, and The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Whitney grew up in the United Church of Christ denomination and is currently the soprano choral associate and a member of The New York Avenue Presbyterian Church. She lives in northern Virginia with her husband Adam and their daughter Maddie.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\t<\/div>\r\n<\/article>\r\n<!--_________________________ Finish Vertical Profile _________________________ -->\r\n\r\n\r\n<!--_________________________ Start Vertical Profile _________________________ -->\r\n\r\n<article id=\"post-6911\" class=\"cmsmasters_profile_vertical post-6911 profile type-profile status-publish has-post-thumbnail hentry\">\r\n\t<div class=\"profile_outer\">\r\n\t<div class=\"cmsmasters_profile_img_wrap\"><figure class=\"cmsmasters_img_rollover_wrap preloader\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/JBowman-300x300.jpg\" class=\"full-width wp-post-image\" alt=\"Jarred Bowman\" title=\"Jarred Bowman\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/JBowman-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/JBowman-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/JBowman-70x70.jpg 70w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/JBowman-360x360.jpg 360w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/JBowman-580x580.jpg 580w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><div class=\"cmsmasters_img_rollover\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/index.php\/MINISTERS\/jarred-bowman\/\" title=\"Jarred Bowman\" class=\"cmsmasters_open_post_link cmsmasters_theme_icon_post_link\"><\/a><\/div><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"profile_inner\"><header class=\"cmsmasters_profile_header entry-header\"><h2 class=\"cmsmasters_profile_title entry-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/index.php\/MINISTERS\/jarred-bowman\/\">Jarred Bowman<\/a><\/h2><h4 class=\"cmsmasters_profile_subtitle\">Drop-in Center Coordinator<\/h4><\/header><div class=\"cl\"><\/div><div class=\"cmsmasters_profile_content entry-content\">\n<p>A fifth generation Washingtonian, Jarred is deeply passionate about DC\u2019s youth and families and has committed his life and career to learning and growing in communities committed to transformational change. Jarred comes to us with experience serving in local, state and federal agencies to address structural inequities, and has leveraged his skills to effectively co-advocate for meaningful change. Of all his diverse experiences, Jarred finds his work as a middle school STEM teacher to be most rewarding and life-changing. Presently, Jarred uses his passion and knowledge of education policy to help DC families build a more accessible, more affordable and higher quality early childhood system in the District.<br \/>\nAs an advocate and bridge builder, Jarred is eager to use his broad skills and experience to build deeper connections with unhoused youth and their families in the Drop-In Center, and to make it a space where all families feel safe and valued. Jarred holds a B.S. in Government, Politics & History from St. John\u2019s University and a Master\u2019s in Urban Education from the University of Pennsylvania. He lives close to his early-childhood home in Riggs Park, and is excited to be a part of the First Church Community.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\t<\/div>\r\n<\/article>\r\n<!--_________________________ Finish Vertical Profile _________________________ -->\r\n\r\n\r\n<!--_________________________ Start Vertical Profile _________________________ -->\r\n\r\n<article id=\"post-6914\" class=\"cmsmasters_profile_vertical post-6914 profile type-profile status-publish has-post-thumbnail hentry\">\r\n\t<div class=\"profile_outer\">\r\n\t<div class=\"cmsmasters_profile_img_wrap\"><figure class=\"cmsmasters_img_rollover_wrap preloader\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Kemmesha-Thomas-scaled-e1636478557326-300x300.jpg\" class=\"full-width wp-post-image\" alt=\"Kemmesha Thomas\" title=\"Kemmesha Thomas\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Kemmesha-Thomas-scaled-e1636478557326-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Kemmesha-Thomas-scaled-e1636478557326-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Kemmesha-Thomas-scaled-e1636478557326-70x70.jpg 70w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Kemmesha-Thomas-scaled-e1636478557326-360x360.jpg 360w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Kemmesha-Thomas-scaled-e1636478557326-580x580.jpg 580w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><div class=\"cmsmasters_img_rollover\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/index.php\/MINISTERS\/kemmesha-thomas-sunday-liaison\/\" title=\"Kemmesha Thomas\" class=\"cmsmasters_open_post_link cmsmasters_theme_icon_post_link\"><\/a><\/div><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"profile_inner\"><header class=\"cmsmasters_profile_header entry-header\"><h2 class=\"cmsmasters_profile_title entry-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/index.php\/MINISTERS\/kemmesha-thomas-sunday-liaison\/\">Kemmesha Thomas<\/a><\/h2><h4 class=\"cmsmasters_profile_subtitle\">Sunday Liaison<\/h4><\/header><div class=\"cl\"><\/div><div class=\"cmsmasters_profile_content entry-content\">\n<p>Kemmesha is from Wisconsin and moved to Maryland to pursue a Master in Public Health in Health Equity at UMD College Park. One of her interests in Public Health is how housing instability impacts health, which is why she\u2019s glad to be working with the church as a liaison for those without a home and pathways. Some fun facts about Kemmesha: she is the second oldest of 5, loves the outdoors but can definitely sit inside and get lost in a book or a good TV series, she is a vegetarian who does not like fruit or seafood (so in her words she is picky). As an undergrad she was part of the women\u2019s track and field team where she competed in seven events as a heptathlete. Her favorite was javelin.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\t<\/div>\r\n<\/article>\r\n<!--_________________________ Finish Vertical Profile _________________________ -->\r\n\r\n\r\n<!--_________________________ Start Vertical Profile _________________________ -->\r\n\r\n<article id=\"post-7536\" class=\"cmsmasters_profile_vertical post-7536 profile type-profile status-publish has-post-thumbnail hentry\">\r\n\t<div class=\"profile_outer\">\r\n\t<div class=\"cmsmasters_profile_img_wrap\"><figure class=\"cmsmasters_img_rollover_wrap preloader\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/Lynaya-headshot-small-300x300.jpg\" class=\"full-width wp-post-image\" alt=\"Lynaya Morris\" title=\"Lynaya Morris\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/Lynaya-headshot-small-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/Lynaya-headshot-small-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/Lynaya-headshot-small-70x70.jpg 70w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/Lynaya-headshot-small-360x360.jpg 360w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/Lynaya-headshot-small-580x580.jpg 580w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><div class=\"cmsmasters_img_rollover\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/index.php\/MINISTERS\/lynaya-morris\/\" title=\"Lynaya Morris\" class=\"cmsmasters_open_post_link cmsmasters_theme_icon_post_link\"><\/a><\/div><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"profile_inner\"><header class=\"cmsmasters_profile_header entry-header\"><h2 class=\"cmsmasters_profile_title entry-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/index.php\/MINISTERS\/lynaya-morris\/\">Lynaya Morris<\/a><\/h2><h4 class=\"cmsmasters_profile_subtitle\">Member in Discernment<\/h4><\/header><div class=\"cl\"><\/div><div class=\"cmsmasters_profile_content entry-content\">\n<p>Originally from Pocomoke, Maryland, Lynaya holds two Master's degrees; one in Higher Education Administration from George Washington University and the second in Theology from Wesley Theological Seminary. Lynaya served and lived among students as an Area Coordinator, Residence Director, and later a Career Coach.  Lynaya enjoys not just the science disciplines and theology, but also creative endeavors such as baking, painting, knitting, comedy, and listening to music. Lynaya is currently living in Toronto, ON Canada with her husband Luke as he pursues is doctorate in Political Science at the University of Toronto.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\t<\/div>\r\n<\/article>\r\n<!--_________________________ Finish Vertical Profile _________________________ -->\r\n\r\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"cmsmasters_row_69d818bcbd6867_80007443\" class=\"cmsmasters_row cmsmasters_color_scheme_default cmsmasters_row_top_default cmsmasters_row_bot_default cmsmasters_row_fullwidth\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer_parent\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_inner cmsmasters_row_fullwidth\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_margin\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_column one_first\">\n\n<div id=\"cmsmasters_heading_69d818bcbd79f6_09292972\" class=\"cmsmasters_heading_wrap cmsmasters_heading_align_center\">\n\t<h1 class=\"cmsmasters_heading\">Building<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"cmsmasters_row_69d818bcbd7fb3_11466755\" class=\"cmsmasters_row cmsmasters_color_scheme_default cmsmasters_row_top_default cmsmasters_row_bot_default cmsmasters_row_boxed\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer_parent\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_inner\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_margin\">\n<\/p>\n<p><div class=\"cmsmasters_column one_first\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggles toggles_mode_toggle\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_wrap\" data-tags=\"all \">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_title\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_hor\"><\/span>\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_vert\"><\/span>\n<\/span>\n<a href=\"#\">Our Current Home<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_inner\">\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/FirstUCCDC_Oct2017-418-scaled.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-5670 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/FirstUCCDC_Oct2017-418-681x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"681\" height=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/FirstUCCDC_Oct2017-418-681x1024.jpg 681w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/FirstUCCDC_Oct2017-418-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/FirstUCCDC_Oct2017-418-scaled.jpg 1704w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>In January 2012, First Congregational UCC returned to the corner of 10th and G Streets to continue to witness for peace and justice in the nation\u2019s capital. Our return capped a journey that started in 2004 when we admitted to ourselves that our prior building had reached the end of its useful life.<\/p>\n<p>The church decided to get creative. After an intense period of congregational study, we issued requests for proposals from local developers and architects, inviting them to work with use to build a new mixed-use building on our historic site. This lead to a partnership that created a new church \u2013 accessible and flexible enough to meet the contemporary needs of our congregation and our neighbors.<\/p>\n<p>We demolished the old building, recycling 90-95% of everything inside and outside the building, and we worked with developers and the internationally acclaimed firm of Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects to build a new Gold LEED home expressing our values of environmental stewardship. The mixed-use building includes our church space of 24,000 square feet, 162,000 square feet of Class A office space, and a restaurant.<\/p>\n<p>The building has been featured in ARCHITECTURE Magazine and won awards from two chapters of the American Institute of Architects, the Downtown Business Improvement District, and the Committee of 100 on the Federal City.<\/p>\n<p>Read more information about our building in our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/FCUCC-Building-Guide-v3-01-17-13.pdf\">guide<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Building-Brochure.pdf\">brochure<\/a>. Additional press coverage and materials can be found below:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>&#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/When-Your-Building-Asset-Becomes-a-Liability.pdf\">When Your Building Asset Becomes a Liability\u2026The Challenges and Rewards of Redeveloping First Congregational United Church of Christ at 10<sup>th<\/sup> and G St., NW, Washington, DC<\/a>&#8220;, a Union Seminary article that details the new building development<\/li>\n<li>&#8220;<a href=\"http:\/\/www.washingtonpost.com\/wp-dyn\/content\/article\/2009\/02\/23\/AR2009022302639.html\">New Church Only in Their Prayers<\/a>&#8221; an article about the redevelopment from the Washington Post (February 24, 2009)<\/li>\n<li>&#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Our-New-Home-Expresses-our-Faith-and-our-Values.pdf\">Our New Home Expresses Our Faith and Our Values<\/a>&#8220;, our church statement regarding the new building<\/li>\n<li>Read about the February 26, 2012, formal <a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Formal-Building-Dedication.pdf\">Dedication of the Church Building<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/FINAL-PRAYER-OF-THANKSGIVING-2-26-1212.pdf\">Prayer of Thanksgiving<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Read the program for the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/07-15-12-Workers-Recognition-10-pages.pdf\">Workers Recognition Service<\/a> and Sid Fowler\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Fowler-Make-us-into-a-Sanctuary-July-15-2012.pdf\">sermon<\/a> (July 15, 2012)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Interested in renting our space? <a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/index.php\/rent-our-space\/\">Visit this page for more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_wrap\" data-tags=\"all \">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_title\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_hor\"><\/span>\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_vert\"><\/span>\n<\/span>\n<a href=\"#\">First Building (1865 \u2013 1953)<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_inner\">\n<div class=\"col-md-6 \">\n<div class=\"row\">\n<div class=\"tw-element col-md-12\">\n<p>First Congregational United Church of Christ was founded in 1865 by abolitionists as the first racially integrated church in Washington, DC. In 1867, the mission committee of the church played a prominent role in the founding of Howard University. In 1868, after worshipping for several years in Congress, the church moved into its newly constructed building at the corner of 10th and G Streets, NW. When the church divided over integration in 1869 and the segregationists left, Howard University saved the church by buying the note.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"col-md-6 \">\n<div class=\"row\">\n<div class=\"tw-element col-md-12\">\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/old-church-with-ivy.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-5850 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/old-church-with-ivy-300x241.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"241\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/old-church-with-ivy-300x241.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/old-church-with-ivy-768x616.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/old-church-with-ivy-580x465.jpg 580w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/old-church-with-ivy-860x690.jpg 860w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/old-church-with-ivy.jpg 999w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_wrap\" data-tags=\"all \">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_title\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus\">\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_hor\"><\/span>\n<span class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_plus_vert\"><\/span>\n<\/span>\n<a href=\"#\">Second Building (1953 \u2013 2004)<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_toggle_inner\">\n<div class=\"col-md-6 \">\n<div class=\"row\">\n<div class=\"tw-element col-md-12\">\n<p>In 1953, when the original structure was condemned, the Trustees recommended that the building be sold and the church relocated. The congregation rejected this recommendation and voted to rebuild in the present location, continuing the mission of downtown ministry in the nation\u2019s capital and affirming the church\u2019s presence in the urban area. During the 1960\u2019s, First Church was active in the Civil Rights Movement, and this activism has continued throughout the church\u2019s history. First Church is proud to be an Open and Affirming (ONA) Church (as of 1975), a Just Peace Church (as of 1986) and to have affirmed the vision as a Multiracial\/Multicultural Church (2003).<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"col-md-6 \">\n<div class=\"row\">\n<div class=\"tw-element col-md-12\">\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/church2thumb.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-5669 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/church2thumb.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/church2thumb.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.firstuccdc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/church2thumb-70x70.jpg 70w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"cmsmasters_row_69d818bcbe17f3_56689091\" class=\"cmsmasters_row cmsmasters_color_scheme_default cmsmasters_row_top_default cmsmasters_row_bot_default cmsmasters_row_fullwidth\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer_parent\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_inner cmsmasters_row_fullwidth\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_margin\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_column one_first\">\n\n<div id=\"cmsmasters_heading_69d818bcbe1fe4_97298347\" class=\"cmsmasters_heading_wrap cmsmasters_heading_align_center\">\n\t<h1 class=\"cmsmasters_heading\">United Church of Christ<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"cmsmasters_row_69d818bcbe24a1_58304528\" class=\"cmsmasters_row cmsmasters_color_scheme_default cmsmasters_row_top_default cmsmasters_row_bot_default cmsmasters_row_boxed\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer_parent\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_outer\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_inner\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_row_margin\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_column one_first\">\n<div class=\"cmsmasters_text\">\n<div class=\"row\">\n<div class=\"tw-element col-md-12\">\n<h2>Instead of focusing upon unchanging truths,<\/h2>\n<p>the United Church of Christ (UCC) strives to unite diverse understandings of Christianity by treating historic creeds and confessions as testimonies, not tests of faith. We say, \u201cwhoever you are and wherever you are on life\u2019s journey, you are welcome here.\u201d We assert that \u201cGod is still speaking.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"row\">\n<div class=\"tw-element col-md-12\">\n<hr \/>\n<h2>In the United Church of Christ, there is no central authority or hierarchy; Christ alone is Head of the church.<\/h2>\n<p>Each congregation is autonomous and local churches are governed by their members as guided by the Holy Spirit. Each congregation relates to the wider church family (denomination) through voluntary covenants. Sometimes the UCC is confused with the \u201cChurches of Christ\u201d; this denomination is quite different and does not embrace the progressive social witness characterized by the UCC.<\/p>\n<p>Visit the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ucc.org\/\">UCC website<\/a> to learn more about the denomination, and follow these links to learn more about our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.potomacucc.org\/\">regional association<\/a> and <a href=\"http:\/\/www.cacucc.org\/\">regional conference<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-4432","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.3 - 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