Skip to main content

First Congregational Church of Paxton is part of the United Church of Christ (UCC) — a Protestant Christian denomination with deep roots in the Congregational tradition and a bold commitment to living out the gospel in today’s world.

The UCC was formed in 1957 through the union of several historic denominations, including the Congregational Christian Churches and the Evangelical and Reformed Church. Its motto, “That they may all be one,” comes from Jesus’ prayer in John 17 and speaks to the UCC’s emphasis on unity, cooperation, and ecumenical spirit.

As a denomination, the UCC values:

  • Local autonomy: Each congregation governs itself, calling its own pastor, managing its own affairs, and discerning its own path of ministry.

  • A thoughtful, non-dogmatic faith: The UCC encourages questions, learning, and exploration. While we take the Bible seriously, we recognize that faithful people may interpret scripture in different ways.

  • A commitment to justice and compassion: Many UCC churches are actively engaged in ministries of service, advocacy, and peacemaking.

At First Congregational Church of Paxton, we share in this wider tradition while staying rooted in the life of our local community. We are a welcoming congregation — open to all who seek to grow in faith, serve others, and be part of a caring community. We strive to reflect God’s love by offering hospitality and grace to all who walk through our doors.

We are proud to be part of the UCC, and grateful for the ways this denomination supports and challenges us to be the church in meaningful, grounded, and Spirit-led ways.

To learn more about the United Church of Christ, visit www.ucc.org.