News You Can Use

June / July Tower

Thu, 28 May 2026 16:22:22 GMT

It will be a busy summer for CCOB!

Read about our Pride Sunday service, Batavia Community Pride and the our Storytime Summer Series! We will also host a booth at the Batavia Farmers Market, children and youth activities, as well as adventures with Scout Troop 43 and Batavia Nursery School! These events and much more in the Tower !

Storytime Summer Series

Sat, 16 May 2026 20:07:05 GMT

2026 Summer Worship Series

May 31 is the kick off for our 2026 Summer Worship Series, "Storytime." Pastor Paige will use some of our favorite children's books to illuminate and illustrate Biblical messages. Every Sunday, a different children's book will be the theme, many suggested by members of the congregation.

Batavia Community Pride

Sat, 16 May 2026 19:45:22 GMT

A Church For All on June 14

Welcoming local congregations will be gathering together to celebrate Batavia Community Pride during Pride Month on Sunday, June 14 with “ A Church for All ” at the Congregational Church of Batavia. The participating churches are all different in worship style, denomination and theological nuance. But they all affirm that all people are made in the image of the Divine, and that definitely includes members of the LGBTQ community.

The service is open to all, including anyone who may be looking for a safe, affirming place to worship. In a season where there is more prejudice, and the threat of losing more rights, these local churches feel this is the time to stand up and be counted. The church is located at 21 S. Batavia Ave., Batavia. The service begins at 9:30, celebrating with music and love, ending at 10:15 am with plenty of time to join the Aurora Pride Parade!

May Tower

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 01:51:00 GMT

Spring is in full bloom!

Spring flowers, spring showers, springing into longer days and warm weather! Read all about what is waiting for us in the months ahead in the May Tower !

Rummage Sale

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 17:41:58 GMT

We are looking for Rummage Sale items and Volunteers!

The time has come! We are now ready to accept items for our 2026 CCOB Rummage Sale. The criteria for acceptable donations: items must be clean and not broken -- in working condition, if that is applicable. We take clothing, media of all kinds, toys, craft materials, electronics, yard tools ... you name it. We also accept donations from outside our church family. Donations can be brought anytime the church office is open, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., M-F, or by arrangement with Connections chair Susan Price, susanncprice@gmail.com . The sale is May 1-2, so donations should be dropped off on or before April 27 .

Rummage Sale Volunteers will be needed the week of April 27 to organize donations, as well as people to work the sale on Friday, May 1 and Saturday, May 2. Please contact Susan with the days you can assist.

Building Bridges Photo Exhibit

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 18:08:42 GMT

When to view the Exhibit

From April 19 – 26 , the Congregational Church of Batavia will host the Building Bridges * photo exhibit featuring 19 photographs of Immigrant and Refugee families and individuals, as we lean into the Biblical command to care for the resident aliens among us.

*Building Bridges includes photographs and interviews with people who have come to the United States as immigrants, refugees, or asylum-seekers from around the world, countering anti-immigrant rhetoric and challenging damaging myths and stereotypes.

Thursday, April 23 we will host a night for the community to come and see these photographs.

• The event will open at 5:00, for folks to view the exhibit.

• At 6:00, Joel Duncan from World Relief will speak on the issues surrounding refugees in America.

• Afterwards will be a Dessert reception with food from immigrant owned bakeries.

• A free will offering will be split between World Relief, and Family Diversity Projects*.

* Family Diversity Projects is a national nonprofit devoted to helping eliminate prejudice, stereotyping, bullying, harassment, and discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, race, national origin, religion, and disabilities of all kinds.
We tell the stories of real people presented in eight award-winning, traveling photo-text exhibits.

You can view the exhibit on April 23, or by coming to 10:00 AM worship on April 19 or 26

Please mark your calendars, and invite friends and neighbors.

April Tower

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 20:50:56 GMT

Looking forward to Spring

We begin April with Easter, and are looking forward to our spring activities. Read about it in the April Tower .

Easter Family Fun

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 23:52:11 GMT

Drop in on April 4th!

Join us for Family Easter Activities on Easter Saturday, April 4th. We will be hosting a "drop-in" morning of Easter fun in Paxton Hall between 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM. Activities will include crafts, games, and a sharing of the Easter story. Please feel free to come and go as your schedule allows and to invite friends. We look forward to seeing you there!

March Tower

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 18:32:16 GMT

The Good News is…All are Invited!

As we approach spring and enter the Lenten Season, we begin our theme of Tell Me Something Good. Read more about our journey in the March Tower!

Lent and Easter Schedule

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 22:01:26 GMT

Worship, fellowship and more!

Put these dates on your calendar, or print out and post on you refrigerator! Our Lenten Vespers service on March 25 is cancelled.

February Tower

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 16:53:39 GMT

Welcome to the 2026 News!

Read about our upcoming 2026 Annual Meeting and 2026 Nominations for Officers and the Finance Team. There is also a potluck!

Download now!

December / January Tower

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 02:55:28 GMT

Ending 2025, beginning 2026

Ways to participate in our church during the Christmas season, a look back on Justice and Witness mission during the past year, and looking forward to building Connections in the new year. Of course, there is much more in the December / January Tower.

Christmas Services and Events

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 21:55:19 GMT

Our 2025 Advent Worship, Concerts and Fellowship

New Paragraph

Christmas Gift Festival 2025

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 20:22:37 GMT

Don’t miss the annual Christmas Gift Festival on Sunday, November 9

Don’t miss the annual Christmas Gift Festival on Sunday, November 9 as we invite representatives from three local agencies to share the important work that they do in our community. This is an opportunity to learn about these organizations and donate to support their missions.

Batavia Apartments: Create stable, vibrant and healthy communities by developing, financing and operating affordable program enriched housing for families, seniors and people with special needs who lack economic resources to access quality housing opportunities.

Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry and Clothes Closet: Provide food, non-food household and personal items and clothing for those individuals and families residing in Batavia and Batavia Township who are in need.

Hesed House: Help individuals who are facing homelessness or are currently homeless. Our mission is to feed the hungry, cloth the naked, shelter the homeless and give people the chance to hope again.

The Outreach Team will be available to accept donations in Paxton Hall on November 9, 16, 23 and 30. We will have special gift cards for you to inform friends and relatives of a donation made in their honor. It is a great gift for those “impossible to buy for” folks on your Christmas list!

Here are ways to make donations:

Write a check to the church with “Christmas Gift Festival” in the memo line.
Give online: https://onrealm.org/CCBatavia/give/CGF

Use the MEMO drop down to select the agency you wish to support, or simply

Give to the Christmas Gift Festival and your donation will be applied to each

Agency.

Text “CCOB CGF” to 73256 to give using your mobile device.

Thank you for your support of our Christmas Gift Festival!

Capital Campaign

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 20:02:14 GMT

A Capital Campaign to Improve Our Finances & Facilites

The “From Heritage to Horizon” Capital Campaign has begun! View the campaign video below, outlining the plan and goals. This video can also be found on the Capital Campaign website . Here you can also read the purpose and details of the campaign and how you can contribute and pledge.

Visit here to make your pledge NOW!

The November Tower

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 18:43:04 GMT

November Services and Activities!

Beginning with All Saints, and ending with the start of Advent, November is a busy time. Read the Tower to find out about our church activities during this autumn month!

Unity in the Community

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 20:33:03 GMT

We Can Lead Change and Indivisible Fox Valley Rising are teaming up to collect food and supplies for families in crisis.

Just drive through and drop off your donations at one of these locations between 8-12 pm, Saturday October 11

Drop Off Locations:

United Methodist Church of Geneva, parking lot behind 211 Hamilton, Geneva, IL 60134
Bethlehem Lutheran Church, parking lot, 1145 N. 5th Ave., St. Charles 60174
Congregational Church of Batavia, parking lot, 21 S Batavia Ave., Batavia IL 60510
Silver Glen Crossing, public parking lot, Silver Glen and Randall Roads, South Elgin, IL 60177

Christmas Wreath and Centerpiece Fundraiser

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 20:51:19 GMT

Fundraiser for youth mission projects

Thank you for supporting our Wreath Fundraiser, which aims to raise funds for youth mission projects, including the annual work tour. Recent work tours include time at the Back Bay Mission and the Appalachian South Folklife Center.

New this year is a 12-inch centerpiece for $20

22" mixed evergreen wreaths for $30.

28" mixed evergreen wreaths for $40

All orders must be received by November 2 by 8:00 p.m .

To place a wreath order, you can do so conveniently online or in person on Sundays after the worship service. Our 'order table' will be by Suzy's office.

To Pay: You can pay for your purchase with cash, a check, or even a credit or debit card. If you prefer to pay with a card, once we receive your order, we will send you a payment link via email.

Wreath Pickup: Wreaths will arrive before Thanksgiving. We will keep you informed of the expected delivery date. Once they are sorted and ready for pick up, we will notify you. We are here to help with any questions you may have.

Thank you! Suzy and Laura

The October Tower

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 20:40:44 GMT

The Difference Between the Stewardship and Capital Campaigns

It's confusing to some of us. Pastor Paige explains it well in the October Tower. Also, updates on Trunk or Treat, the Christmas Wreath Sale, Christmas Gift Festival, and MORE! Read about it in the October Tower.

2026 Stewardship Campaign

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 19:52:08 GMT

Peculiar People, Precious Gifts

It’s that season again, when we look forward to the year to come, and vision, and plan, and give, so that we can continue to do the ministry that we have been doing here at the Congregational Church of Batavia for 190 years. What we give funds the staff, the Children, Youth, Music, and Outreach programs, ensures that we can keep the lights and heat on, and secures us for another year of spreading God’s glorious light in our city. Consider what you can give, and then please, pledge for the year to come. Thank you.

To help fund the church’s annual operating budget for 2026, use the 2026 Stewardship Drive Pledge Link here .

The September Tower

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 19:28:39 GMT

A Season for Opportunity

Fall is the start of the school and programming for our children and youth, the start of the Capital Campaign, the 51st year at Batavia Nursery School, supporting at risk immigrants, and planning for the remaining year as well as the year ahead. Read about it in the September Tower .

Time for School!

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 19:41:15 GMT

School Year Programs Beginning Sept. 7

Time to start thinking about Sunday School, our midweek programs, and the upcoming school year. Sunday School begins on September 7th . We will be celebrating with a special snack so please be sure to use this form to register children and youth for Sunday School, Nursery, Elementary and Middle School Midweek programs and Smallies. Making us aware of food allergies is helpful!

Registration for 2025-26 School Year programs is open. Please use the linked form to register children and youth for Sunday School, Nursery, Elementary and Middle School Midweek programs and Smallies. Sunday School begins on September 7th. To access form: bit.ly/454nfRh

Our meetings at the church begin on September 24. Please contact children@congregationalchurch.org for questions about programming up to 5th grade and youth@congregationalchurch.org for middle and high school students.

Letter in Support of At-Risk Immigrants

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 19:31:54 GMT

This letter was sent in support of at-risk immigrants to Fox Valley mayors, law enforcement and elected county officials

Dear City and County Officials of Fox Valley,

Over the last 6 months, agents from the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have begun to randomly, willfully, and repeatedly target individuals with no prior criminal records. They have shown up in courts, places of employment, schools, and other locations to accomplish these arrests. In addition, ICE has shown no identification, or proper legal documentation or justification for their raids. While documented criminal activity should be addressed, what has become more and more apparent is that ICE is casting a much wider and, we believe, unconstitutional net in their raids.

We applaud and appreciate the character of our local law enforcement and their upholding of state laws (The TRUST Act) regarding detention of immigrants. We only ask that you continue these practices, that you refrain from offering detention facilities, and refrain from sharing information with ICE without proper legal and constitutional justification.

By and large, the men, women, and children targeted by these raids are our neighbors, friends, and co-workers. As such they should be provided with the same due process and protection under the law that US citizens receive. Anything less, we believe, is unconstitutional and goes against the principles our country has long believed and practiced.

Our congregations represent a broad cross spectrum of citizens from up and down the Fox Valley and across Kane County.

Thank you for your consideration.

Respectfully submitted,

St. Charles Episcopal Church (SCEC)

Unitarian Universalist Society of Geneva (UUSG)

Congregational Church of Batavia (CCoB)

First Congregational Church of Geneva

United Methodist Church of Geneva

Becoming Oswego

Logan Street Baptist Church

The Rev. David P. Aslesen

Pastor Pat Fish

The Rev. Paige Wolfanger

The Rev. Rob Hamilton

The Rev. Heather Connor

The August Tower

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 20:11:51 GMT

Celebrating 190 Years!

The August Tower celebrates our church history, reminds us of the upcoming birthday celebration on August 10, and the call for recipes for our CCOB Cookbook. Also, there is a great letter from Pastor Paige about the reasons to interact with our local community.

As usual, you can read reports from some of the different ministries and ways that you can serve our church. Keep up to date with the August Tower !

Step 9 of the 48 Steps

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 20:25:16 GMT

We are occasionally sharing some of Rev. Dr. Terry Gallagher’s 48 Steps to a Sustainable Way of Life.

Lifestyle - Step 9

Use your Social Media Platforms and contacts to spread the critical message of sustainability.

Dr. Gallagher believes we have a responsibility as people of faith in protecting, nurturing, and honoring the planet that has been given into our hands. His passion and mission is creation, and what the Bible has to say about our Divine call to engage in specific, direct, engaged acts of environmental justice.

Click here to see 48 Steps to a Sustainable Way of Life in their entirety.

July Tower

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 20:11:20 GMT

A Busy Summer in July!

Despite the summer heat, we have a lot of activities; Capital Campaign, a combined Justice and Witness and Outreach project, WellBatavia and the Batavia Farmer's Market. Read about these, and much more in the July Tower !

Clobbering the Clobber Passages

Sat, 31 May 2025 00:36:30 GMT

Questions About the Clobber Passages

Clobbering the Clobber Passages

After our Ask me Anything sermon on Sunday (thanks to everyone with questions,) I’ve decided that during June, which is Pride Month, I will run a little Bible Study each week after worship that takes on some of the seemingly anti-LGBTQIA+ texts. Those Sundays will be June 1, June 15, June 22, June 29 at around 11:00 AM, or whenever worship ends. Join us with all your questions!

— Pastor Paige

The June Tower

Sat, 31 May 2025 00:27:14 GMT

Read about the latest church news in the June Tower

Capital Campaign update, signing up for Realm, Justice and Witness, Connections, end of the school year and more in the June Tower!

S'More Fun!

Fri, 16 May 2025 01:15:23 GMT

Celebrate the End of the School Year with S'MORE FUN!

Thursday May 27 from 6 pm - 7 pm

Games and S’mores in the church parking lot.

RSVP to Laura

If it rains we will move inside.

Legal Aid Clinic 2025

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 18:29:25 GMT

Legal Aid at the Congregational Church

Batavia church offers low-cost legal aid clinic

Clients do not have to be church members or Batavia residents

Did you know there is a Batavia Legal Aid Clinic is located in the Congregational Church of Batavia?

The Batavia Legal Aid Clinic works with Administer Justice, a nonprofit organization who partners with churches to provide low-cost legal aid. You do not need to be a member of the Congregational Church of Batavia to seek the help of these services. While the attorneys do not represent our clients, they advise on appropriate legal steps, how to find the appropriate forms and instructions, whether the client can handle the matter his or herself, and other recommendations on legal processes.

The clinic is open from 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm. Open appointments are available. Call (855) 818-4554 for an appointment. The Congregational Church of Batavia is located at 21 S. Batavia Ave., Batavia. The Congregational Church of Batavia’s Legal Aid Clinic first opened in May 2021 and has served over 100 clients out of the church at 21 S. Batavia Ave.

The May Tower

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 18:55:35 GMT

What's happening in May

A Capital Campaign Update, our upcoming 2025 Summer Series, the Outreach Ministry Diaper Drive, and celebrating the end of school year! Find out more details in the May Tower and how you can be a part of our church by giving your time and talents!

Step 8 of the 48 Steps

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 21:19:38 GMT

We are occasionally sharing some of Rev. Dr. Terry Gallagher’s 48 Steps to a Sustainable Way of Life.

Lifestyle - Step 8

Remove red meat from your diet. It has triple the cost on earth resources vs other meats.

Click here to see 48 Steps to a Sustainable Way of Life in their entirety.

Photo provided by Jason Dale, Wikipedia Commons

The April Tower

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 20:51:50 GMT

Preparing for the future, learning from our past.

A look at our church history, our April Lenten worship, results of the Capital Campaign feasibility and more! For details, read the April Tower!

Tribune archive photo, Chicago Tribune, Sept. 16, 2014

Lent and Easter Schedule

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 18:52:22 GMT

Join us as we celebrate the Lenten Season

Lent and Easter Schedule at the Congregational Church of Batavia

Ash Wednesday Soup Supper
Wednesday, March 5th Supper 6 pm, Service 7 pm

Lenten Worship Services
Sundays, March 9, 16, 23, 30, April 6 10 - 11 am

Lenten Vespers Worship
Wednesdays, March 12, 19, 26, April 2, 9 6:30 pm

Acappellago Concert Sunday, March 16 - 3 pm

Palm Sunday Sunday, April 13 Worship 10 - 11 am

Maundy Thursday Thursday, April 17 Worship 6:30 pm

Good Friday Friday, April 18 Worship 6:30 pm

Eggstravaganza Easter Event Saturday, April 19 10 am

Easter Sunday Sunday, April 20 Worship 10 - 11 am

The March Tower

communications@congregationalchurch.org (Lisa Youngdahl) — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 21:35:09 GMT

Spring is almost here with opportunities to blossom!

"As spring draws near, let’s remember that just like the flowers blooming

in the sun, our gifts can grow and flourish when shared with one another.

Whether it’s a small act of kindness, a new way to serve, or a leadership

role you’re being called to, there’s a place for everyone to make a

difference at CCoB."

Spring is almost here with opportunities to blossom! Share your gifts with our church; suggestions abound in the March Tower .

Faith At Home Fair

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 23:39:37 GMT

Add faith moments to your daily routine easily

Faith at Home Fair, Sunday, February 23 at 11:15 in Paxton Hall

Our Faith at Home Fair will share ways to add faith moments to your daily routine easily, with little or no preparation and share meaningful spiritual experiences with your children, family, and friends!

Traci Smith, a pastor, mother of three, author and lifelong CCoB friend will guide this event. Traci will share ways to discover and develop new spiritual practices as an individual or a family, whether you're a new seeker or a lifelong follower. "My passion is helping families find times for connection and spiritual nourishment amid the hustle and bustle of daily life. I believe faith practices should be fun, easy to fit into daily life, and accessible to all."

We are introducing five practices from Traci's Faithful Families book series . This series is brimming with easy, do-it-yourself ideas for transforming your family's everyday moments into sacred moments! These Faithful Family books will will be given away on Sunday, February 23.

At this fair, Traci will begin by sharing information about creating faith-filled moments at home, and then you are invited to tour our Faith Practices Centers. Five Centers will be available, each set with a different faith practice for you to experience, including a prayer, using the features of your smartphone, a prayer bracelet, and ways to practice gratitude. Information will be available to take home so you can easily add the faith practice to your routine.

Refreshments will be provided by Scout Troop 43. Children are welcome!

2025 Wildfire Relief Fund

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 18:37:39 GMT

The Outreach Team will be taking a special offering

To help those displaced by the devastating wildfires in Southern California, the Outreach Team will be taking a special offering through the end of February. We invite you to support the United Church of Christ appeal for the 2025 Wildfire Relief Fund. These funds will help provide resources for local communities affected by the California wildfires for immediate and long term recovery. Donations can be made in three ways.

1) By check, noting “Outreach” in the memo line.

2) Text “CCOB OTR” to 73256 and follow the prompts using your mobile phone.

3) Give a gift online: https://onrealm.org/CCBatavia/give/OTR

The February Tower

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 00:13:16 GMT

New year, new leadership

2025 brings changes in our leadership, ministry teams, and more! Read abut it in the February Tower !

2024 Annual Report

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 18:03:54 GMT

Available for download now.

Read the 2024 Annual Report!

The annual report includes messages from the Moderator, Vice-Moderator, Treasurer, Financial Secretary, and Clerk.

Read the reports from Pastor Paige, our staff, teams, and more!

You will also find our mission statement, vision statement, membership and financial reports. https://www.congregationalchurch.org/annual-report

StarLab at the Congregational Church!

office@congregationalchurch.org (Church Office) — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 18:54:00 GMT

Sci-Tech is bringing their StarLab to our church!

On January 29, Sci-Tech is coming to the Congregational Church of Batavia with their StarLab, from 6 - 7 pm.

We can follow stars just as the Magi did long ago! Journey through the cosmos and explore the wonders of the universe—all while staying grounded right here on Earth!

Get ready for an exhilarating 60-minute voyage through the cosmos with your STARLab presentation! We’ll kick off by taking a closer look at the night sky, unraveling the mysteries of the stars above. Then, buckle up as we board the Saturn IV for an epic journey deep into space! Inside the inflatable dome theater, the rounded projection creates an immersive experience, making you feel like you're actually traveling through the galaxy. As we soar through the stars, you'll be captivated by the sights and sounds of space. Please note, all participants will sit on the floor during the presentation to fully embrace this out-of-this-world adventure!

We welcome all of our elementary and middle school students to this event and encourage you to bring a friend. Please RSVP to children@congregationalchurch.org with the number of people who will attend with you.

Interested in finding out more about SciTech? https://www.goscitech.org/

https://www.facebook.com/SciTechFoxValley/

Donation to 3 Non Profits

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 18:01:07 GMT

$23,135 in Donations from our Christmas Gift Festival

The Congregational Church of Batavia annually holds a “ Christmas Gift Festival” . Three local non profits are selected to be the recipients of donations during the Christmas season. Information about the purpose and mission of each the non profits are shared during a church service, and as well as an opportunity to meet with representatives of these agencies. This year we were able to collect $20,135 from the Christmas Gift Festival, and an additional $3000 earned from a rummage sale earlier this year to donate a total of $23,135 to Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans, Mutual Ground, and Suicide Prevention Services of America.

Read more about the recipients and their missions.

Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans

Mission:

To empower at-risk veterans, and their families, to become self-

sufficient, productive members of their communities.

Mutual Ground

Mission:

To create a safe environment where individuals impacted by

domestic violence, sexual violence and substance use are able

to reclaim their power. We support the healing of our

community through education, awareness, and life changing

services as a commitment to equity for all.

Suicide Prevention Services of America

Mission:

To open minds, save lives, and restore

hope through prevention, intervention,

and postvention, using education,

advocacy, and collaboration

Batavia Nursery School Open House

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 17:14:09 GMT

Batavia Nursery School is holding an Open House

Batavia Nursery School is holding an Open House for prospective students and families on Tuesday, January 28th from 5:30-6:30 pm. This is a great opportunity for new and incoming families to view our classrooms and meet our staff. We will be happy to answer any questions that you may have prior to the open registration date of Saturday, February 1st. Contact 630-879-9470 or email: Office@BataviaNurserySchool.org

Batavia Nursery School is an “academic” preschool, focusing on the skills that are necessary for success in Kindergarten. Our program teaches to the whole child, with curriculum that is based on a multi-intelligence approach. Children also enjoy making friends and playtime each day.

Batavia Nursery School is sponsored by and located inside the Congregational Church of Batavia. It is a non-profit organization with enrollment open to all children, regardless of religious affiliation. To learn more about the preschool, visit http://batavianurseryschool.org/

2024 Christmas Services and Events

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 19:52:38 GMT

You Are Welcome Here

Sunday, December 1
Songs of the Season — Advent Begins.

After the 10 am service, we invite everyone to join in decorating the sanctuary tree.

Sunday, December 8 Acappellago Concert

Escape...Into the Light, 3:00 PM

Sunday, December 15 Festival of Carols

Choir cantata weaving new melodies together with traditional songs during worship, 10:00 AM

Sunday, December 15 Songs & LIghts

A Community celebration of the season
with song, food, fellowship.
Shannon Hall, 14 N Van Buren St, Batavia 6:30 PM

Thursday, December 19 Blue Christmas Service

A worship service which acknowledges that the holiday season is not a joyous time for everyone, 7:00 PM

Tuesday, December 24
Candlelight & Communion at both services

3 PM and 7 PM (also available online.)

Sunday, December 29 Praise Band

Praise Band will celebrate by sharing their music
during the service, 10:00 AM

Advent Meditations Book

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 19:42:35 GMT

He Comes . . . Songs of the Season

Not a traditional devotional book, but a collection of writings and art from the people of CCOB, this book can be read all in one sitting, or doled out day by day through Advent, as a focus of your Advent prayers or meditations. This year’s Advent theme grows from the Advent hymns we are singing each Sunday, thus “songs of the season” and their key message, that Christ is coming.

Click here to download

Hanging of the Greens

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 22:12:59 GMT

Join us for lunch and decorating

Join us after worship on Sunday, November 24, at 11 am for a light lunch, then decorating the church and sanctuary for the Advent and Christmas season. We’ll conclude with cider and cookies before heading to the Riverwalk to decorate our community tree.

The trees along the Batavia Riverwalk will be available for viewing November 25 through December 27. Voting for the “People’s Choice Award” will begin at noon on November 25 and go on through noon on November 30. People may vote on Facebook, @BataviaParks. The church’s tree is #9; the BNS tree is # 2.

December 2024 / January 2025 Tower

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 21:51:35 GMT

The new Tower is now Available!

Don't miss the December / January issue of the Tower, our church newsletter.

This edition is full of information about our different Christmas and Advent worship opportunities, a variety of holiday concerts, seasonal fundraiser, looking forward to the next year and MORE!

Christmas Gift Festival

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 20:31:05 GMT

Christmas Gift Festival on November 10

Don't miss our annual Christmas Gift Festival on Sunday November 10th, as we share a light lunch with representatives from three local agencies:

Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans – empowering at risk veterans, and their families, to become self-sufficient, productive members of their communities. https://www.helpaveteran.org/
Mutual Ground – creating a safe environment where individuals impacted by domestic violence, sexual violence and substance use are able to reclaim their power. https://mutualground.org/
Suicide Prevention Services – opening minds, saving lives, and restoring hope through prevention, intervention, and postvention, using education, advocacy, and collaboration. https://www.spsamerica.org/

This is an opportunity to learn about these organizations and donate to support their missions. Our Outreach Team will be on hand to accept donations and distribute special cards for you to inform friends and relatives of a donation made in their honor. It's a great gift for those "impossible to buy for" folks on your Christmas list.

Make a gift by:

Texting “CCOB CGF” to 73256,
online: https://onrealm.org/CCBatavia/give/CGF
--Use the MEMO drop down to select the agency you wish to support, or simply give to the Festival and your gift will be applied to each agency.
Write a check to the church with “ Christmas Gift Festival ” in the memo line.

November Tower

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 22:35:47 GMT

Updates and Looking ahead to Christmas

Updates on the Capital Campaign, as well as beginning our Joyful Generosity Stewardship Campaign, and looking forward to the Christmas season with the Christmas Gift Festival, Hanging of the Greens, and making decorations for the CCOB tree on Batavia’s Riverwalk. Read all about it in the November Tower

Joyful Generosity

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 20:45:50 GMT

2024 Stewardship — Let's grow the mission and ministry of our church!

We have been invited by our God to be partners in the work of redemption, and justice, and love. And a portion of that partnership is the money we can share to support the mission and ministry here at the Congregational Church of Batavia...from staff salaries to keeping the lights on; from music to children's ministry to supporting local charities; from reaching out to our neighbors to caring for our members, your gifts are what allow us to do this sacred work. Consider how you can support your church this year, with joy in who we are, and who we have been called to be.

Click here to make your pledge to the Joyful Generosity Stewardship Campaign . Let's grow the mission and ministry of our church!

Hurricane Helene - UCC Response

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 21:16:23 GMT

Hurricane Helene - UCC Response

A message from the National Church:

The impact of Hurricane Helene is widespread and devastating, as more than 100 people have been confirmed dead, over 2 million people are without power, and damages are estimated to be over $140 billion. We know of two UCC congregations on Florida’s Gulf Coast whose church buildings suffered significant flood damage, and another building that experienced structural damage from high winds. We continue to be in touch with our Southern, Southeast, and Florida Conferences as they work to contact local congregations and become aware of their needs.

The United Church of Christ has a long history of supporting communities as they recover from disaster well after their plight fades from the headlines. As we continue to pray for and respond to those who have experienced unimaginable loss this past week, please consider a gift to the Hurricane Helene Recovery Appeal. Your gifts matter. This is something you can do to help alleviate suffering, rebuild homes, and restore communities. Your gifts will make a difference to those who are struggling during these difficult times and enable needed assistance as we stand with impacted communities in the years ahead.

Thank you for your generosity.

Rev. Kent Siladi

Interim Director of Philanthropy

United Church of Christ

Information on how to donate and other opportunities to help can be found via the button below. You may donate online or send a check. ALL DONATIONS SHOULD GO DIRECTLY TO THE NATIONAL UCC. Please do not send donations to the Conference office.

October Tower

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 21:41:58 GMT

Looking Ahead

Planning now for the future year and how you can be involved in our church and the opportunties offered by our ministries, stewardship and capital campaigns, and MORE! Read the October Tower !

Step 7 of the 48 Steps

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 22:48:57 GMT

We are occasionally some of Rev. Dr. Terry Gallagher’s 48 Steps to a Sustainable Way of Life.

Lifestyle - Step 7

Shop local & Farm Markets. Food is healthier when it doesn’t travel thousands of miles (saves on pollution too!)

Click here to see 48 Steps to a Sustainable Way of Life in their entirety.

Photo provided by Jason Dale, Wikipedia Commons

September Tower

Sat, 24 Aug 2024 01:24:45 GMT

Time for Fall activities!

Many families in our congregation are jumping back into the swing of the school year, as well as back into Sunday school, Smallies, and Wednesday Youth Program. Chancel Choir and Bell Choir practices are resuming as well. Read more about this in the September Tower.

Welcome to Sunday School 2024-25!

communications@congregationalchurch.org (Lisa Youngdahl) — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 20:00:41 GMT

Our Sunday School year kicks off on Sunday, September 8.

We will begin this new Sunday School year in the book of James, exploring what it means to really love our neighbors as ourselves. We will meet every week on Sunday, 10 am - 11 am.

Sunday School students attend the first part of the Worship Service and leave after the Passing of the Peace. On Sundays that we celebrate Communion, the students return to the service. Otherwise, students will wait for pick up in the Sunday School room on the Education Wing’s lower level.

Our Sunday School is for children aged 3 through 5th grade. - For more information and registration details, please contact the church at info@congregationalchurch.org

Our 189th Birthday

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 18:59:42 GMT

Free Birthday Concert with Wheels North

We are celebrating our church's 189th birthday on August 11 with a free outdoor concert!

Celebrating with us is Fox Valley favorite Wheels North , a progressive newgrass band. They offer powerful three-part harmonies, skillfully crafted song arrangements, and an enticing catalog of originals and covers. Their live show is engaging, energetic, and just plain fun.

Join us to celebrate the birthday of The Congregational Church of Batavia! The concert will take place on the church grounds, from 2:00 - 4:00 pm. All are welcome. Please bring your own lawn chair.

No cover charge. Donations are appreciated.

August Tower

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 18:48:38 GMT

Celebrating with fun, fellowship and faith!

Celebrating our church birthday with fun, fellowship and faith! Read about it in the August Tower!

Pastoral Care Fund

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 20:37:13 GMT

A message from the Outreach Team

The Outreach Team is asking the congregation for your ongoing support of our Pastoral Care Fund. As you may know, the Care Fund is essential for providing assistance to members of our community in times of need. Your generous contributions enable us to offer support and comfort to those facing difficult circumstances.

We kindly ask for your help in bolstering this vital fund. Any amount you can give will make a significant difference and ensure we can continue to care for our congregation and community needs effectively.

If you can, please donate and write “Care Fund” in the Memo of your check or use the online link: https://onrealm.org/CCBatavia/-/form/give/now

Thank you for your ongoing generosity.

The July Tower

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 20:43:35 GMT

Hot News for a Hot Summer!

Reports from the Capital Campaign Team, Pastor Paige, Justice & Witness, BNS and more! Keep up with the latest in the July Towe r!

Step 6 of the 48 Steps

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 19:39:13 GMT

We are sharing monthly some of Rev. Dr. Terry Gallagher’s 48 Steps to a Sustainable Way of Life.

Lifestyle - Step 6

Skip the Christmas presents and give the gift of service to others. You could also help a poorer family save some energy this year through improving their home’s insulation or lighting.

Click here to see 48 Steps to a Sustainable Way of Life in their entirety.

Photo provided by Jason Dale, Wikipedia Commons

June Tower

Fri, 31 May 2024 19:52:17 GMT

Start the month with the June Tower!

June activities include a Cougars Game, Pride Parade, VBS Game Night, a Capital Campaign Meeting and much more! More details can be found in the June Tower!

Strengthen the Church

Tue, 14 May 2024 20:07:21 GMT

Through this offering, we cooperate with UCC churches nationwide to Strengthen the Church.

STRENGTHEN THE CHURCH OFFERING - MAY 19TH AND MAY 26TH

The annual Strengthen the Church offering (STC) of the United Church of Christ helps start new churches, grows innovative church ministries and supports leadership development and youth ministry. Through this offering, we cooperate with UCC churches nationwide to Strengthen the Church.

Please give generously: text “CCOB STC” to 73256, online at https://onrealm.org/CCBatavia/give/STC , or write a check to the church with “Strengthen the Church” in the memo line.

The May Tower

Thu, 02 May 2024 20:58:22 GMT

It feels like spring!

May kicks off with our Rummage Sale, plans to attend a Kane County Cougars game, a message from the Capital Campaign team and celebrating the end of the school year! Read all about upcoming activities in the May Tower !

Congregational Church of Batavia Rummage Sale

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 19:45:56 GMT

Our Church Rummage Sale donates to local community.

While shopping for treasures at the Batavia City Wide Garage Sale, do not overlook the Congregational Church of Batavia Rummage Sale! A variety of household items, clothing, games, books, furniture, bicycles, and more may be found indoors and outside on the church grounds at 21 S. Batavia Ave., Batavia.

More important than the bargains you will find is knowing the proceeds will go to the church’s Outreach team, which supports local and other ministries including:

• C.A.S.A. Kane County

• Lazarus House

• Hesed House

• Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry

• HorsePower Therapeutic Riding (St. Charles)

• Youth Outlook

• Kay Angel Children's Home, Jacmel Haiti

Donations for the rummage sale are still being accepted, up until May 2. Items may be delivered to the church office from 9 am until noon, or contact Susan Price (susanncprice@gmail.com, 630-362-6980) for more information. Pick up may be arranged for oversize donations.

The April Tower

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 16:00:27 GMT

Read the latest news!

Read the message from our new Moderator, and discover lots of opportunities to serve! Mark your calendars for the Church Rummage Sale, lots of children's activities, and more! The latest Church news is in the Tower !

Step 5 of the 48 Steps

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 20:12:26 GMT

We are sharing monthly some of Rev. Dr. Terry Gallagher’s 48 Steps to a Sustainable Way of Life.

Lifestyle - Step 5

Give up the disposable plastic water bottle habit and then move on to eliminate other disposable products.

Click here to see 48 Steps to a Sustainable Way of Life in their entirety.

Iftar Dinner — March 16

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 00:07:38 GMT

This event is an invitation to people of all faiths to come together in the spirit of peace and togetherness.

The Batavia Islamic Center and the Congregational Church of Batavia invite you to an Interfaith Community Iftar on March 16, 6:30 pm.

Iftar is the meal at which Muslims break their fast in the holy month of Ramadan. This event is an invitation to people of all faiths to come together in the spirit of peace and togetherness. The event will begin with prayers, followed by an Indian meal buffet.

In respect for our Muslim brothers and sisters, please dress in modest attire and women should be prepared with a scarf or other head covering to participate in the Muslim prayer prior to dinner.

The event will be held at the Congregational Church of Batavia, 21 S. Batavia Ave. Please RSVP by March 10to the church office at 630-879-1999, or info@congregationalchurch.org

Lenten Season Schedule

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 19:43:46 GMT

Here is a handy schedule of events and services for 2024.

The Lenten season begins this year on February 14!

Ash Wednesday
Wednesday, Feb. 14 7 pm
Soup supper at 6 pm before service
Lenten Vespers
Wednesdays, Feb 21, 28, March 6, 13, and 20 6:30 pm
Palm Sunday Service Sunday, March 24 10 - 11 am
Maundy Thursday Service Thursday, March 28 7 - 8 pm
Good Friday Service Friday, March 29 7 - 8 pm
Edited to add a noon service on Good Friday at Calvary Episcopal, 12 pm
Easter Sunday Service Sunday, March 31 10 - 11 am
Edited to add Sunrise Service at Logan Street Baptist, 6:30 am

March Tower

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 20:08:41 GMT

Building Connections within our church and community

In March we celebrate Easter, host the Iftar Dinner, prepare for the city-wide rummage sale, and much more! Read about these events, and opportunities in the March Tower .

Let's Make Noise For Toys!

Sat, 10 Feb 2024 20:04:09 GMT

2024 Child/Youth Fundraising Project, “We’re Making Noise for Toys”

From February to November, our children and youth will be fundraising to provide toys and gift cards for the 2024 Batavia Access Toys Toy Drive . Each month, we will designate a Sunday in which we will be making noise and asking you to donate your spare change for this fundraiser (although we won’t say no to paper money!)

The children and youth will count the donations and add those to our fundraiser thermometer to monitor our progress. In November, they will go on a shopping trip, and in December, we will deliver the toys and help with the Toy Drive as needed.

We’ll kick off this project with a church-wide BINGO GAME in Paxton Hall on Sunday, February 25, from 2:30 to 4:30. We hope to see you there!

BINGO!

We are having a BINGO Fundraiser on Sunday, February 25, from 2:30 to 4:30. Plan to arrive at 2:30, with the first game beginning at 2:45. We will be playing “traditional” bingo, appropriate for all ages.

We will collect a free-will donation for the Child/Youth “Noise for Toys” fundraiser for the 2024 Batavia Access Toy Drive.

We need prize donations - do you have any white elephant gifts to donate for our prizes? You can drop them off in the office on Sunday mornings or weekdays from 9 am to 1 pm.

BYOS - Bring your own snacks. We will have beverages available.

2023 Annual Report

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 21:40:46 GMT

Our 2023 Annual Report

Our year in review, the 2023 Annual Report, beautifully put together by Barb Zillgitt. Read our Mission Statement, Vision Statement, reports from officers, staff, teams and the organizations the church supports.

Feed My Starving Children Followup

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 21:18:17 GMT

We broke a record!

We had 23 participants from our Church donate their time at Feed My Starving Children on a dreary rainy night. Once there, the energy and enthusiasm brightened the night! The volunteers worked on the assembly line to create the bagged meals. Our packing session broke a record last night for packing the most boxes in a session so far this year. We packed 195 boxes, which will feed 115 children one meal every day for a year.

Feed My Starving Children (FMSC) believes hope starts with food. As a Christian nonprofit, FMSC is dedicated to seeing every child whole in body and spirit. FMSC works with food distribution partners that stay with communities for the long haul, empowering them to move from relief to development.

The February Tower

Sat, 27 Jan 2024 17:29:51 GMT

The Lenten Season begins and more

Changes to our board, a new Lenten worship series, and a kickoff for a youth fundraising project! Keep up to date with the February Tower!

2024 Annual Meeting and Potluck

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 15:52:22 GMT

Annual Meeting on Sunday, February 4

POTLUCK... and Annual Meeting

Please plan to attend the Annual Meeting on Sunday, February 4 and stay for a potluck lunch! We will hold the meeting just after the church service, around 11:15, then adjourn to Paxton Hall for food and fellowship. Keep your eye out for a call to sign up for bringing something to contribute, and let Susan Price know if you are able to help!

Step 4 of the 48 Steps

Sun, 21 Jan 2024 17:01:37 GMT

We are sharing monthly some of Rev. Dr. Terry Gallagher’s 48 Steps to a Sustainable Way of Life.

Lifestyle - Step 4

Walk or bike to nearby destinations. Good for the body & the soul. Make this a family value.

Click here to see 48 Steps to a Sustainable Way of Life in their entirety.

Share the Care

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 15:51:44 GMT

Your gift to the church’s Care fund will bless our neighbors.

Pastor Paige announced the Care fund is in need of additional funds. Formerly known as Share the Care, this is the fund we use to provide benevolent aid to our neighbors who are in need.

You may make a gift by:

text CCOB Care to 73256 , (This number will never send unsolicited texts to you. To cancel messages, text STOP. If you need assistance with text giving, text HELP. Standard text message and data rates may apply.)
online at: https://onrealm.org/CCBatavia/-/form/give/Care ,
or mail a check marked “Care” in the memo line to the church at 21 S. Batavia Ave., Batavia, IL 60510.

This fund helps those locally, including church members and friends, who might have an emergency or other unexpected expense in their lives. Your gift to the church’s Share the Care fund will bless our neighbors.

Feed My Starving Children

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 16:09:19 GMT

Feed My Starving Children

Feed My Starving Children Serving Opportunity on Wednesday, January 24 at 4:30 pm.

From the FMSC.org website: Every year, millions of children die from preventable causes such as pneumonia, diarrhea, malaria and undernutrition. Hunger is still causing nearly half of deaths in children under 5 years old. From this data, we estimate at least 6,200 children die each day from causes related to undernutrition. This is heartbreaking.

FMSC meals are developed by food science and nutrition professionals to supplement nutritional needs and reduce problems with malnutrition. Nutrition allows children to grow, thrive and develop to their full potential.

Come join some of our children, youth, Laura and Suzy as we pack meals at FMSC! Our session is from 4:30 to 6:15. Contact Laura Bernabei to sign up by Jan. 19, 2024 .

The December 2023 - January 2024 Tower

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 21:13:34 GMT

“Do not be afraid, for see, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.”

Bringing you messages of Advent memories, worship services, advent music, service and mission opportunities. Click on this link to download the newest Tower and past issues.

Step 3 of the 48 Steps

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 21:44:51 GMT

We are sharing monthly some of Rev. Dr. Terry Gallagher’s 48 Steps to a Sustainable Way of Life.

Lifestyle - Step 3

• Go “only veggie” one or more days a week. Meat has 10x the effect on the environment.

Click here to see 48 Steps to a Sustainable Way of Life in their entirety.

God's Eye View Stewardship Campaign

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 18:22:07 GMT

God's Eye View Stewardship Campaign

We are living in what I'll call "tricky times " There are so many challenges, so many obstacles between us and our dreams, so many reasons to say "No." This Stewardship Season, however, we are striving to see things as God sees them, from a God's Eye View. Our Creator is the master of the impossible, and with their vision, we can see clearly the future before us.

Click here to make your pledge to the God's Eye View Stewardship Campaign . Let's grow the mission and ministry of our church!

For Church Members - Possible Capital Campaign

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 18:41:59 GMT

Our church is considering running a capital campaign. We’d like your input!

A capital campaign is an initiative to raise funds to cover the cost of specific items, like improvements to the church’s structure, that can’t be paid for within the church’s annual operating budget.

We'll collect responses through November 12. But there will be many more opportunities for input!

To submit your ideas, please follow this link to an online form.

If you have any questions, please contact Kimo Hemmes, Bill Price, Karen Kosky, or Jean Deptolla.

The November Tower

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 22:08:16 GMT

It's Stewardship Season

Learn about historic records of our Church's stewardship, and how it is part of our current ministries. Updates on some traditions; the Christmas Gift Festival, the 2023 Advent book and more! Read about it in the November Tower !

Welcome Bernadine Matthews

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 21:24:25 GMT

Welcome to our new Office Manager, Bernadine Matthews!

Come meet Bernadine during our office hours, Mon - Fri 9:00 am - 1:00 pm.

Learn more about Bernadine by visiting our staff page at https://www.congregationalchurch.org/staff . In fact, you may find out things you didn't know about the rest of our staff!

Thanks to all our volunteers who helped in the office during the job search! Welcome to our church, Bernadine Matthews!

Is our Church a 5 For 5?

Sun, 22 Oct 2023 20:01:34 GMT

Thanks to your generosity, The Congregational Church of Batavia UCC has been a “5 for 5” church supporting our denomination for many years.

We support the UCC’s four annual special mission offerings and Our Church’s Wider Mission. To learn more about these Special Mission Offerings and the Church's Wider Mission, there is detailed information on this page .

Step 2 of the 48 Steps

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 21:45:17 GMT

We will be sharing monthly some of Rev. Dr. Terry Gallagher’s 48 Steps to a Sustainable Way of Life.

Lifestyle - Step 2

Read and Stay informed via reliable news sources - 350.org, Climate Reality.org; Union Of Concerned Scientists.org; EDF.org InsideClimateNews.org.

Click here to see 48 Steps to a Sustainable Way of Life in their entirety.

Ann Alexander named 2023 Barth Award Recipient

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 19:30:06 GMT

Announcing Ann Alexander as 2023 Barth Award Recipient

The October Tower

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 19:17:10 GMT

Autumn Opportunities for Joy, Community and Service

More details about past and future activities, opportunities and outreach within our church. Keep up to date with the October Tower .

Family Night at Windy Acres Farm

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 20:45:15 GMT

Windy Acres Farm Trip on Wednesday, October 11

Lots of fun activities for the family, including a jumping pillow, corn maze, moon bounces, visiting the animals, mini golf, zip lines....!

For more information about this event, email the church at info@congregationalchurch.org

Learn more about our children and youth programs here .

48 Steps to a Sustainable Way of Life

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 20:11:37 GMT

We will be sharing monthly some of Rev. Dr. Terry Gallagher’s 48 Steps to a Sustainable Way of Life.

Lifestyle - Step 1

Break the consumption addiction by avoiding ads & impulse buying. Evaluate potential purchases based on the item’s total life cost to you, your family and future generations.

Click here to see 48 Steps to a Sustainable Way of Life in their entirety.

Midweek Meetup begins

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 21:43:32 GMT

Our Midweek Meetup for Elementary and Middle School Students begins on Wednesday, August 30. We will meet from 6 pm to 7:30 pm.

This fall, we will be getting to know a few of the "everyday people" in the Bible and how God or Jesus changed their lives. We will also be playing games, singing songs, working on service projects, and enjoying our time together. We begin the year by comparing a character from C. S. Lewis's Voyage of the Dawn Treader with a Bible person. For more information and registration details, please contact the church at info@congregationalchurch.org

Welcome to Sunday School 2023-24

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 16:07:36 GMT

Our Sunday School year kicks off on Sunday, September 10!

Welcome to Sunday School 2023-24 – Mini Revolutions!

Our Sunday School year kicks off on Sunday, September 10, with a lesson on Romans 13:8-10 on how loving our neighbors fulfills God’s plan for us. We will meet every week on Sunday, 10 am - 11:00

Mini Revolutions Sunday School lessons follow the liturgical calendar Bible readings. During class, we learn one Bible story from the week’s liturgical readings through a telling of the story and other activities to help us understand the story’s lesson.

Sunday School students attend the first part of the Worship Service and leave after the

Passing of the Peace. On Sundays that we celebrate Communion, the students return to the

service. Otherwise, students will wait for pick up in the Sunday School room on the

Education Wing’s lower level.

Our Sunday School is for children aged 3 through 5th grade. - For more information and registration details, please contact the church at info@congregationalchurch.org

The September Tower

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 21:05:57 GMT

Fall activities begin! Back to Sunday School, Midweek Meetup and Nursery School! Read The Tower!

New Paragraph

Fox Valley Association Fall Meeting

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 20:32:39 GMT

Saturday, September 9, 2023

Pre-Registration Deadline is September 1st! More information here .

Fox Valley Association Fall Meeting

Saturday, September 9, 2023

8:30 AM - 2:00 PM

Little Home Church by the Wayside

32W128 W. Army Trail Rd, Wayne, Illinois 60184

Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you again.

1 Thessalonians 3:9

Pre-Registration Deadline is September 1st!

Your presence and vote is needed!

Voting membership of any meeting of the Association will consist of the members of the Association Council, all ordained, licensed and commissioned ministers holding standing in the Fox Valley Association, all volunteer staff as appointed by the Association Council, and two (2) adult delegates and one (1) youth delegate from each church.

A quorum for meetings of the Association will consist of fifty voting delegates representing one-third (1/3) of the churches of the Association.

Everyone in attendance at the meeting will be entered into a drawing to win a gift certificate to Portillos! You must be present to win.

More information here .

Maui Relief Fund

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 17:14:06 GMT

Make a donation to the Hawai‘i 2023 Wildfires Relief Fund

Please consider making a donation to assist the many families and individual residents of Maui who have been affected by the recent unprecedented wildfires. Here is a link to the UCC Hawaii Conference website with additional information, including a way to give online to this effort: Hawaii Conference UCC

Checks can also be mailed directly to the conference office:

Hawaii Conference UCC

700 Bishop Street, Suite 825

Honolulu, HI 96813

(Photo shows damage in the harbor of Lahaina on the island of Maui following a devastating wildfire, via the U.S. Coast Guard)

Source: Mauinow.com

The July Tower

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 21:13:10 GMT

Music in worship, Pastor Paige goes to Synod and More! Read the July Tower !

New Paragraph

Strengthen the Church Special Offering 2023

Wed, 17 May 2023 19:51:15 GMT

By your generosity, you are building up the Body of Christ.

The Strengthen the Church Offering reflects the shared commitment of people throughout the United Church of Christ to build up the church. Rev. Traci D. Blackmon, Associate General Minister United Church of Christ affirmed, “I often have the privilege of standing on holy ground as I travel the breadth of our beloved Church. These are places where God shows up through the work of God’s people to treat other’s needs as holy”. This offering is helping UCC churches feed the hungry through food pantries and providing fresh fruit and vegetables in communities deprived of this resource. It is helping churches provide clothing and shelter for those in need, including our neighbors who are unhoused. Funds raised support new churches and church plants, innovation and new ministries in existing congregations, minister and leadership development and new youth ministries. By your generosity, you are building up the Body of Christ.

Please give generously to the Strengthen the Church offering beginning Pentecost Sunday, May 29, 2023.

Text “CCOB STC” to 73256
Go to https://onrealm.org/CCBatavia/give/STC
or mail a check to the church with “Strengthen the Church” in the memo line. Thank you.

The June Tower

Tue, 16 May 2023 18:20:18 GMT

Summer Fellowship and Childrens' Activities

The Pride Parade is this month, as well as VBS, and we start meeting for Tuesdays in the Park! Read updates in the June Tower from Batavia Nursery School, Troop 43 and a Finance Update.

Wild Life Vacation Bible School

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 18:38:04 GMT

Wild Life is an adventure where kids discover how special they are to God

Think about the weirdest animals you know. What noise does an aardvark make? Is an axolotl really smiling? Are glass frogs made of real glass? Is a wombat a type of bat? It’s wild that God helps each animal grow and thrive . . . and us, too! Wild Life is an adventure where kids discover how special they are to God and how wild it is that they can share their story, use their gifts, spend time with God, and spend time with others.

Our VBS is designed for children aged 4 through completed 5th grade. Older children and youth may participate as volunteers.

When registering, use the drop-down menu to choose either camper or volunteer. Register here.

We will be meeting at a local park except if there is inclement weather. Then we will meet at the church.

Camper registrations after May 22 are not guaranteed a t-shirt.

You should receive a confirmation email after you complete your registration; if you do not, please get in touch with Laura Bernabei at children@congregationalchurch.org or 630-406-8429.

When

Tuesday Jun 6 - Wednesday Jul 12, 2023

Tuesday Jun 6, 2023 (6:00 pm - 7:30 pm)
Wednesday Jun 7, 2023 (6:00 pm - 7:30 pm)
Tuesday Jul 11, 2023 (6:00 pm - 7:30 pm)
Wednesday Jul 12, 2023 (6:00 pm - 7:30 pm)

The May Tower

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 10:42:18 GMT

Spring is here, and summer is just around the corner!

Time to mark your calendar for the Cougars' game, VBS, Family Park Nights, Pride Parade, Hootenanny and more!!
Read about it in the May Tower !

Fox River Valley Initiative donates $500,000 for Crisis Stabilization Unit

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 21:11:06 GMT

Thanks in part to a $500,000 donation from FRVI members, a Crisis Stabilization Unit opened in Aurora

A Crisis Stabilization Unit opened at Ascension Mercy hospital / medical center in Aurora on March 1, thanks in part to a $500,000 donation from Fox River Valley Initiative (FRVI.) members. The opening of this facility is a crucial piece in decriminalizing mental illness along with training for law enforcement and affordable housing.

The Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU) staff is trained in dealing with mental health. Most people in a mental health crisis just need a cooling off time in a calming environment or to get back on their prescriptions. The staff has immediate access to medication for those who are simply off their meds. A person in a crisis needing medical attention as well can go to the Emergency Room first and then the CSU. Patients can self-admit, be brought to the CSU by family or friends, or by law enforcement. The CSU is open 24 /7, located next to the newly refurbished Emergency Department.This Unit is the important alternative to long waits in Emergency Departments while medical patients are triaged ahead of patients in a mental health crisis or jail.

The Justice and Witness ministry at the Congregational Church of Batavia carries out the action part of the ministry through the Fox River Valley Initiative (FRVI). FRVI partnered with sister organizations in the Chicago metro area and elected officials as well as several States Attorney offices over a five year period to secure the funding to make Crisis Stabilization Units viable in Illinois.

Our church is the Best of Batavia!

communications@congregationalchurch.org (Lisa Youngdahl) — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 13:52:21 GMT

Congregational Church of Batavia has been selected as Best of Batavia

Congregational Church of Batavia has been selected as the winner for the 2022 Best of Batavia awards in the category of Places of Worship.

Each year, the Batavia Award Program identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and our community. These exceptional companies help make the Batavia area a great place to live, work and play.

Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category.

The 2022 Batavia Award Program focuses on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the Batavia Award Program and data provided by third parties.

EggHop to be held April 8

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 20:53:45 GMT

Congregational Church of Batavia is partnering with Batavia MainStreet for EggHop

From the Batavia Patch —
With Easter less than a month away, Batavia MainStreet released the schedule of events for its annual Egg Hop.

The event, which takes place across downtown Batavia April 8, the day before Easter, is held in conjunction with the Congregational Church of Batavia.

Scheduled to occur from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the not-for-profit downtown Batavia organization said the Egg Hop is "sure to be a great time."

Take a look at the schedule of events for the day:

10 a.m. to noon — Hop around downtown businesses for candy and prizes
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Giant bubbles at Peg Bond Center
10:15 a.m. — Egg hunt at Appleton Park for children ages 3 and under
10:30 a.m. — Spring stories with the Batavia Public Library at Peg Bond Center
11 a.m. — Learn the Bunny Hop with Batavia Academy of Dance
11:30 a.m. — Children's song time with Congregational Church of Batavia
12:30 p.m. — Raffle drawings at Peg Bond Center

The article was originally published online https://patch.com/illinois/batavia/downtown-batavia-egg-hop-sure-be-great-time

The April Tower

Sun, 05 Mar 2023 22:09:21 GMT

Springing into April, with lots of opportunities to serve.

Read the latest about our ministries for children, Outreach, Justice & Witness and much more! Download the April Tower .

The March Tower

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 20:09:47 GMT

What's happening in March? Well, quite a bit...

Lenten Vesper Services, preparing for the Egg Hop, and much more in the latest Tower!

The Environment, Creation, and Being Followers of Christ

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 17:14:51 GMT

We welcome Rev. Dr. Terry Gallagher to our pulpit to preach on our responsibility as people of faith in protecting, nurturing, and honoring the planet that has been given into our hands.

On Sunday, February 12th, the Congregational Church of Batavia welcomes Rev. Dr. Terry Gallagher to our pulpit to preach on the amazing gift of creation, and our responsibility as people of faith in protecting, nurturing, and honoring the planet that has been given into our hands. Rev. Dr. Gallagher's passion and mission is creation, and what the Bible has to say about our Divine call to engage in specific, direct, engaged acts of environmental justice. After worship, we will have a time of furthering education, in which we can ask questions, discuss the issues, and pray for guidance as we as a congregation and larger community work for the health and well-being of the world in which we live.

Dr. Gallagher was educated originally as an engineer. In response to the escalating global crises of unsustainable economics and ecological destruction, he has focused his ministry efforts on serving society as a Public Theologian. His current ministry is faith-based ecological justice education, advocacy and action.

The Tower Newsletter

communications@congregationalchurch.org (Lisa Youngdahl) — Fri, 27 Jan 2023 01:18:56 GMT

Read the February Tower! Looking into our church's future and celebrating Black History Month.

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The 2023 Annual Meeting will be held on Sunday, February 5

communications@congregationalchurch.org (Lisa Youngdahl) — Sun, 08 Jan 2023 16:18:29 GMT

Annual Meeting and Potluck

The 2023 Annual Meeting will be held on Sunday, February 5, in person, at church, immediately following the service. In order to confirm our budget and new team members for Council and Finance, we will need a quorum, which by our current membership numbers, means somewhere upwards of 40 voting members.

After the meeting, you’re invited to a POTLUCK!!! Please bring a crock pot of soup or chili, your favorite pasta or casserole dish, and join us for an old fashioned church meal and fellowship afterwards. Beverages will be provided.

If you are bringing food, and/or staying for lunch, please fill out this short form so that we can have enough tables set up. 2023 Annual Meeting Lunch RSVP

Join Realm

communications@congregationalchurch.org (Lisa Youngdahl) — Mon, 19 Dec 2022 19:03:29 GMT

Keeping informed about our church community is easier with an online system called Realm.

We use Realm right now as our Church Directory, to send out eNews and other email notifications. It's where we register for church events, and where we purchase things for fundraisers like the youth Christmas Wreath sale and Plant Sale. If you are giving online, that is also through Realm. This is how you can also make your Stewardship Pledge!

Here are the instructions on how to join!

The Tower Newsletter

communications@congregationalchurch.org (Lisa Youngdahl) — Sun, 18 Dec 2022 19:15:29 GMT

The December / January Tower is now available!

Click to download

Masks Optional, Masks Welcome

communications@congregationalchurch.org (Lisa Youngdahl) — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 19:25:05 GMT

Our Mask Policy

As of April 1, the Congregational Church of Batavia Council has decided to move to a “masks optional, and masks welcome” policy for all activities in the church building. This includes Sunday worship, activities for children and youth, groups from the community and groups from the congregation that meet in the church. It applies to all areas of the church. We will also remove the pew seating signs but continue to encourage everyone to be mindful of respectful social distancing.

We are blessed to be part of a congregation that is infused with love, protects and supports each other, and values the goodness that fellowship brings to our lives as we work together as a community of faith. We know that we will continue to:

Respect the choices of our friends and neighbors, and know that they will respect ours
Stay home to protect others if we are not feeling well
Continue to communicate in love around these difficult decisions