What's Happening
Join us this weekend - in person or online. Worship services are Saturday at 5pm and Sunday at 8:45am and 10:30am. Note that we now have a sensory-friendly worship service on Saturdays at 5pm in the East Auditorium with gentle lighting, no special effects, controlled sound, and flexible seating.
Below you'll find lots of great things happening at First Christian Church. For a complete calendar, click here.
To receive our WHAT'S HAPPENING digital newsletter every Friday, sign up via email or text FIRSTDECATUR to (217) 875-3350.
Rooted & Built Up
CURRENT SERMON SERIES
"Rooted and Built Up" is a journey through the book of Colossians — a letter written to a young church learning how to grow strong in a shaky world. Paul doesn’t just offer theology; he offers a blueprint for transformation, calling believers to be rooted in Christ, built up in faith, and overflowing with gratitude. In a culture of shortcuts and shallow living, this series invites us to go deep—into truth, into maturity, and into a life that bears lasting fruit. Each week, we’ll open the Bible together—so bring yours and come ready to grow.
Midweek Prayer
WEDNESDAYS FROM 12:15 - 12:45 PM
Jesus is the hope of the world. The Church is Jesus' plan to bring his hope to the world, and prayer is the pathway to bring all of this together! Everyone is invited to join us Wednesdays from 12:15pm - 12:45pm in the West Auditorium for a time of worship reflection, and prayer.
Party on the Lawn
SUNDAY, AUGUST 24, 2025 FROM NOON-2PM
You're invited to an afternoon of fun! Enjoy a variety of activities for all ages, including:
- Inflatables
- Yard games
- Water fun
- Delicious food
- Lemon shake-ups
Bring your family, friends, and neighbors — everyone is welcome, no matter the age or stage of life. It’s the perfect way to wrap up summer and enjoy time together. Bring a lawn chair!
Rooted
STARTS SEPTEMBER 7 & 11, 2025
REGISTER BY MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2025
ROOTED isn’t just another Bible study or small group. It's a discipleship experience that connects you with God, the church, and your purpose. Over the course of 11 weeks, we'll explore foundational truths of the Christian faith through daily devotions, group discussions, and personal experiences that inspire real spiritual growth. Whether you’re new to faith or looking to go deeper, ROOTED is the NEXT STEP in your faith journey. For all ages. The cost is $45/adult, $40/first child, $20/additional child(ren), free under two. Scholarships are available.
The Mom Co
1ST & 3RD THURSDAY, SEPT 2025 - MAY 2026
The Mom Co at FCC encourages and equips moms of children birth-5th grade to realize their potential as mothers, women, and leaders in relationship with Jesus and in partnership with the local church. We meet the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month from 8:50-11:15am starting September 4th, 2025. Childcare is available. Registration is $67.
Arts Academy
STARTS WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2025
The Arts Academy at First Christian Church serves to develop the next generation of artists – trained with excellence for the task of ministry. It also serves as an avenue for growing disciples of Jesus Christ and expressing his love for people in our community. Our newest classes start September 17 with registration opening August 18. Open to all ages!
Grief Share
STARTS THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 FROM 6-8PM
GriefShare is grief recovery support group that provides a safe space for individuals who are coping with the loss of a loved one. This 11-week program offers practical guidance and emotional support to help navigate the challenges of grief and find healing along the way. You'll learn strategies to manage the unpredictable nature of grief, all while being supported each step of the way.
Baby Dedication Celebration
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2025 AT 10AM
Our Baby Dedication Celebration is a special time of celebrating your families decision to raise your child(ren) in faith according to God’s Word. Join us for a time of fellowship, food, and prayer as we come together to support and uplift one another. This joyous occasion reflects our shared commitment to guide the next generation in truth and Grace.
Sensory-Friendly Worship Gathering
SATURDAYS AT 5PM IN THE EAST AUDITORIUM
We invite you to a new kind of worship experience created especially for individuals who may be sensitive to lights, sound, crowds, or other sensory input. We understand that traditional worship services can sometimes feel overwhelming, and we want to offer a space that is peaceful, accessible, and welcoming for all. Here’s what you can expect at our Sensory-Friendly Worship Gathering:
- Gentle Lighting – No flashing or harsh lights. The environment will be softly lit to promote calm and comfort.
- Controlled Sound – Music and voices will be at a lower, consistent volume. There will be no sudden loud noises or sound effects.
- No Fog or Special Effects
- Flexible Seating and Movement – Feel free to stand, sit, move, or take breaks as needed. We want you to feel at ease.
- Welcoming Environment – Whether you have a specific sensory sensitivity or just prefer a quieter space, you are warmly welcome here.
This service is designed to create space for rest, reflection, and connection with God and with one another, without sensory overload.
Whatever It Takes
ONE FUND. TWO YEARS. THREE TARGETS.
We serve a God who did whatever it takes for us by giving His one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16) We believe God is calling each and everyone of us at First Christian Church to do whatever it takes to further this message through the mission of his church, in our community, and around the world!
Employment Opportunities
ACCOUNTING & RECEIPTS COORDINATOR (PART TIME)
We are looking for a friendly, part-time Accounting and Receipts Coordinator (15-20 hours/week) to join our financial team onsite. This role involves general oversight of receipts, including receiving, recording, and reconciling financial transactions, along with preparing monthly budget reports and various weekly, monthly, and year-end financial statements. The successful candidate must have accounting experience (college courses preferred), strong interpersonal and relational skills, and a commitment to confidentiality. Experience with fund accounting, Power Church, Realm CHMS, or Microsoft Excel is beneficial. To apply, email your resume to Jonathan at jgrunden@firstdecatur.org or apply on Indeed.
For a complete list of events, click the church calendar button below. Questions?
Please call or text the church at (217) 875-3350 or questions@firstdecatur.org.