First Congregational Church of Reno United Church of Christ

Pastor's Page

Pastor Kate Lambertson

Welcome! Last year at this time we were still hunkered down in our homes afraid of a virus that didn’t just go away in a few weeks! We were secluded and lonely, waking up daily to another day of bad news. But now things are different – or at least a little so. We are making progress.

We still need to be vigilant in maintaining safe practices. Wear a mask when you’re not sure if you’re in a vaccinated crowd, social distance with those who haven’t gotten the shot, and continue to wash/sanitize hands obsessively. Yes, there is light at the end of the tunnel, but we’re not out of the tunnel yet! So please be safe!

That said, welcome back to our in-person worship and celebration! The electricity, or dare I say the Holy Spirit’s presence, is definitely felt in the sanctuary as we pray together, sing together, sit together and continue becoming the body once again gathered. I am fully aware that God doesn’t live in church – any church – but it sure feels glorious to be together as we worship God.

For many long months we worshipped together only virtually, and we thank God for technology. 20 years ago that wouldn’t have been possible! Now our worship - virtually and in person - is only possible through the on-going dedicated service of a small, but still mighty, group of die-hard individuals: singers/worship leaders – Katherine McCall and Steven Meyer; pianist – Ted Owens; organist - Jaci Wollenberg; sound and video techs Marc Ullom, Judith Ullom, Russ Stuart, Paul Urban and Harold Lambertson; and all the special music folk, including our Choir, who joyfully gift us with their talents! These wonderful people give of their time and talents on Thursday evenings and each Sunday, and our hats go off to them for their dedication and commitment.

Yes, we’re back - but let us never forget where we’ve been, for it is only in the remembering that we can move into this new future that is more wondrous than pre-pandemic. It may feel like we can all utter a sigh of relief that things are getting back to semi-normal – and in many ways we can - but let’s not rest too long in that relief because there is still much work that needs to be done for the glory of God!

Pastor Kate