We are an Open and Affirming Congregation
Where no matter who we are or where we are on life's journey...we are welcome here.
Worship Services
We live stream our Sunday Worship.
SUNDAYS
Worship 10:00 AM
135 E Larch St, Rhinelander, WI 54501
FELLOWSHIP TIME
Enjoy coffee and conversation following worship.
At a time when religion is too often portrayed as narrow-minded and exclusive, we are raising our voices for alternative vision. One where God is all-loving and inclusive. Where the Church of Jesus Christ welcomes and accepts everyone as they are. Where your mind is nourished as much as your soul. Where Jesus the healer meets Jesus the revolutionary. Where together we grow a just and peaceful world.
Every visitor is also invited to share in the Sacrament of Holy Communion on the first Sunday of each month. We live stream our Sunday Worship to our Facebook page. You are welcome to join us on Facebook on Sunday or view it anytime during the week. Join us by clicking on the Facebook page above.
See you here!
The Revs. Susie and Tim Grade have accepted our call to a joint ministry of First Congregational United Church of Christ, Rhinelander. The Grades will begin their work with us in June. Please join us in welcoming them and their family to our church, community, and hearts.
Next 7 Days of Events
Evil Underestimated
I have heard the many rumors about me and I am surrounded by terror. My enemies conspire against me, plotting to take my life. – Psalm 31:13 (NLT)
Constantly playing the victim is not well received in many circles. Feeling like you’re always under attack, combined with conspiracy theories about how people are always out to get you, won’t win you much sympathy or favor from most people I know.
But someone said, “Just because I’m paranoid doesn’t mean that my enemies are not out to get me.” The statement is insightful.
In our devotion to truth, if we devalue the vast network of shiny things aimed only at distortion, we imperil our own progress.
In our commitment to peace, if we ignore the lucrative systems that are fueled and financed by the dogged twins fear and violence, we will never understand what we are really up against.
In our fight for justice, if we downplay the reality of the principalities, the powers, the rulers of darkness in this world, and the spiritual wickedness in high places which are always aligned against us, we are unprepared for battle.
And in our desire to be Christian, if we don’t think that the individuals and institutions that despised Jesus and his message enough to crucify him will not also come for us, we are diluting the gospel.
On the first Palm Sunday of what appeared to be his triumphant ride into Jerusalem, Jesus was likely the only one among his family and followers preparing himself for the lethal attack of his enemies by the end of the week.
Paranoia is excessive. Vigilance is vital.
Prayer
My soul, be on thy guard; ten thousand foes arise. The hosts of sin are pressing hard, to draw thee from the skies. Never think the victory won, nor once at ease sit down. The arduous work will not be done till thou hast got the crown. (from “My Soul Be on Thy Guard,” George Heath)
About the AuthorKenneth L. Samuel is Pastor of Victory for the World Church, Decatur, Georgia.
ABout UCC
A church of firsts and of extravagant welcome. A church where "they may all be one" (John 17:21).
The United Church of Christ (UCC) is a distinct and diverse community of Christians who come together as one church to join faith and action. With over 5,000 churches and nearly one million members across the U.S., the UCC serves God in the co-creation of a just and sustainable world.
Since 1957, the United Church of Christ has been the church of firsts, weaving God’s message of hope and extravagant welcome with action for justice and peace. Together, we live out our faith in ways that effect change in our communities. Our church works to help make a difference in local, national and global communities.
