An Inclusive Church from Day One
FCC was founded in 1955 by Congregationalists from the Northeast who were transferred to Houston by their companies. The catalysts were Wyn and Tom Greacen who issued a challenge to their fellow transplants to build an open church. This was a bold move in the 50’s when Houston was largely conservative and segregated. At the time, a progressive integrated church based on inclusion and acceptance was a radical concept.
We Are Proud of Our Work in the Community
FCC members have a history of starting up new charitable organizations, being founders or leaders of Houston Habitat for Humanity, Westside Homeless Partnership, The Woods Project, and Settegast Heights Village.
In addition to direct service opportunities, First Congregational Church believes that we should speak out on the moral scope of public policy issues. Decisions in Houston City Hall, Harris County, Austin, and Washington D.C. have serious implications for people’s lives and for serving those on the margins of society. We partner with local, regional, and national advocacy groups to learn about issues and the most effective means to bring about change.
Pride March
March Against Gun Violence
Open For Marriage
We are a church that loves God and people
We are proud of our Congregational heritage, a denomination that has been on the forefront of fighting for the rights of the oppressed since this country was founded. We are equally proud of our affiliation with the progressive United Church of Christ in the 60’s and our decision to become an “open and affirming” church in the late 90’s. This ONA covenant commits FCC to welcoming LGBTQ+ people into membership with all sacraments and rites including baptism, confirmation, communion, and marriage – once more affirming our founding premise of being an open church.
Our long history of inclusion and social involvement goes back nearly 70 years. FCC volunteers have helped the growth of such organizations as Memorial Assistance Ministries, The Metropolitan Organization, Houston Habitat for Humanity and Settegast Heights. For more information about our volunteering click on the “Outreach” tab.
We remain one of the few progressive Christian churches in Houston. Although we are a small church with only about 400 members, we have a big impact on our city. Our members continue to be very involved in community service, mission work and advocating for peace and justice.
