Welcome Words From Pastor Craig

(aka Rev. Craig R. Alwin)

I’m glad that you found us, and would love to hear your story! We are a diverse community of Christians, blessed by God with unique gifts, who gather in the name of Jesus Christ to celebrate His life, death, resurrection and saving grace. We are formally referred to as First Presbyterian Church, but like most of Oconto we go by various nicknames, such as the Presbys (short for Presbyterians) or the Ding-a-Lings (for our hand bell and hand chime ringers). Here is a snippet of my story: I grew up on a small family farm in southern Wisconsin, am married and have three children. I’m currently in my final year of a Doctor of Ministry program, focused on “Leadership in a Changing Context” through what it means to be a Local Theologian. In my 12-plus years serving as pastor with this group of amazing people, we continually seek new ways to worship God, build one another up in Christ, serve the community, and support ministries around the world. I invite you to come, and help us learn more about what it means to be God’s people gathered together in this time and place.

Online Services

We are again gathering together in person for worship, fellowship, and study.

At the onset of the global COVID19 pandemic, we quickly adapted and implemented online connection options – including options for those without computers or internet access. We are not abandoning our online presence, but rather embracing the new opportunities for connection that we have experienced. Our goal is to encourage everyone to safely and confidently gather together as the Body of Christ.

There are people who have found that online worship is actually more meaningful. If that is the case for you, know that you are accepted here! Many of us planning and facilitating worship need to learn from you, so please let us know how we can improve our online presence and help you cultivate meaningful relationships.

Remember, Church is not where you are, but who we are together.

Please join us in worship.

For those who choose to gather online, we continue to offer a live connection via Zoom. This allows connecting for worship with either a computer, smart phone, or even dialing in with a land line! You can get the connection details by contacting the church office or any member. We are also live streaming the entire service on our Facebook page.

Our Session will continue to update our in person meeting guidelines based on the CDC’s most recent recommendations. We continue to welcome mask usage at any time, but are not requiring masks. We expect that everyone will continue to live out the Biblical command to live with respect for all. As such, we expect everyone inside our building to honor the wishes of those who prefer mask usage or extra distance in their presence.

Hand sanitizer and disposable face masks will continue to be available. Additionally, as the weather permits, we will be opening the sanctuary windows and running the air exchanger to bring in fresh filtered air during worship, so it may get a bit cooler inside than normal. Layer up and plan your attire as if you were worshipping outside.

Please remember, our Session may, at its discretion, revise or adjust these procedures as they see the need based on public health guidance and the situation of our local context.