LOCAL CHURCH PROFILE

First Congregational Church, UCC 30 Main Street

Binghamton, NY 13905

PASTOR

New York ConferenceSusquehanna Association

November 1, 2019

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POSITION POSTING

LISTING INFORMATION Church name: First Congregational Church, UCC Street address: 30 Main Street, Binghamton, NY 13905Supplemental web links:

Website:www.uccbinghamton.org Facebook:www.facebook.com/uccbinghamton Twitter:@FirstBinghamton Instagram:FCC_Binghamton

Additional ecumenical affiliations: None

Conference: New York ConferenceAssociation: Susquehanna Association

UCC Conference or Association Staff Contact Person Name: Title: Rev. Dr. Marsha WilliamsTitle: Associate Conference MinisterPhone: 845-500-5082Email: mwilliams@uccny.org

Summary Ministry Description: First Congregational Church, UCC (FCC) embraces diversity of thought. We are an Open and Affirming congregation. We are committed to social justice and community outreach. We are sustained in spirit through worshiping together, genuine concern for one another’s welfare, and gathering socially. We deepen our faith through study and prayer, sharing stories and, more often than not, sharing a meal.

It is our hope that our new pastor will join with us in all aspects of church life. We are seeking a spiritual leader who will work to inspire and challenge us to be more like Christ in all that we do. We do not want to be lectured to; rather, we seek someone who will encourage us along life’s way. Being compassionate, caring, thoughtful, and uplifting are among the qualities we are looking for in our new minister. Our goal is to provide a place and be a place where people are welcomed and valued. Yes, we want to grow in number; we also want to serve the community around us. We want to live the words of Jesus, “feed my lambs, tend my sheep.” We are seeking a pastor who will help us do that.

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What we value about living in our area:

❖ Education Binghamton University (SUNY): State University of New York

SUNY Broome Community CollegeCornell University and Ithaca College are 45 minutes away5 public Libraries in the Four County Library System

❖ Culture Broadway Theatre League

The ForumAnderson Center for the Performing Arts (Binghamton University)Tri-Cities OperaBinghamton Philharmonic Roberson CenterBundy Museum

Discovery Center for ChildrenEndicott Performing Arts Center (EPAC)Ti-Ahwaga Community Players of OwegoRod Serling School of Performing ArtsDowntown SingersBinghamton Theatre Organ SocietyFirst Fridays Arts and Entertainment eveningsLUMA Light FestivalCarousel Capital (7 Carousels in the Tri-City area)Spiedie Fest and Balloon RallyBinghamton Zoo at Ross ParkKopernik Observatory and Science CenterNumerous grass roots music, comedy, and theater opportunities are developing

❖ Activities AHL Hockey team, the Binghamton Devils AA Baseball team, the Binghamton Rumble Ponies ABA Basketball Team, the Binghamton Bulldogs Division I ECAC Sports (Binghamton University)

Hiking, Biking, ATVs, kayaking, beautiful County and State ParksSkiing (Greek Peak and Elk Mountain within 1 hour drive)Golf - home to the Dick’s Open (PGA Champions Tour)Fishing and Hunting

Easy driving distance to the Finger Lakes, Cooperstown, Adirondacks, and Catskills

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Our neighbors include the American Civic Association, Binghamton High School, the Department of Social Services and Bridgewater Center for Rehabilitation.

The Greater Binghamton area is a wonderful environment for raising a family. The public school systems are excellent. You can’t beat our fall foliage and the rolling hills. You won’t find friendlier, nicer people anywhere else!

Current size of membership: 127 July 31, 2019

Languages used in ministry (other than English): None

Position Title: Pastor Position Duration: Settled Compensation Level: Full Time

Does the total support package meet conference compensation guidelines? Yes

SCOPE OF WORK The Pastor, with the assistance of the Board of Deacons, will be in charge of the spiritual welfare of the church. The Pastor will: preach the Gospel, administer the sacraments, plan and/or supervise the planning of all services of public worship, and administer and coordinate the entire church program in cooperation with the various Boards and Committees. The Pastor’s individual responsibilities will be determined in consultation with the Board of Deacons. The Pastor shall be an ex-officio full voting member of the Church Council and ex-officio nonvoting advisory member of all other Boards and Committees.Some of the characteristics the congregation would like to see in our pastor are:

● sense of humor● flexibility, ability to go with the flow● original thinker, doesn’t just follow the standard line● independent● self-confident● takes risks● open-minded● appreciates diversity● strong faith● open-and-affirming● excellent preacher● spirituality● small-group leader

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● sees beyond what is obvious● challenges power● honest and ethical● good staff manager● kindness

COMPENSATION AND SUPPORT Salary Basis:

● Commensurate with experience/education per the Compensation Guidelines of the NY

Conference. Salary negotiable.

● Example: 6-10 yrs. experience. Base salary: $41,000 Housing $25,000

Effective Salary: $66,000

● $ 2,000 annually reimbursed for Professional Expenses including mileage at the IRS rate.

Benefits:

● Pension Benefit: Contributions will be made to the UCC pension benefit program equal

to 14% of the cash compensation, including housing allowance.

● Life/Health & Dental Insurance: FCC will cover the cost of premiums to provide the

minister with the standard UCC life insurance and to enroll the minister, their spouse and eligible children under the UCC health and dental insurance plans.

● Vacation: The minister will be entitled to 4 weeks’ paid vacation annually.

● Continuing Education: Each year the minister will be entitled to up to two weeks of

additional time off to attend or participate in continuing education programs relevant to the ministry at FCC. $1,200 annually is budgeted for continuing education and books.

● Sabbatical: Sabbatical Leave is available after 5 years for 3 months, with full salary and

benefits, plus vacation.

What is the expected living situation for your next minister? FCC does not have a parsonage/manse, so the minister will seek his/her own housing in the Greater Binghamton area (Binghamton, Vestal, Johnson City, Endicott/Endwell).

Comment on the residential/commuting expectations for your next minister.

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It is expected that the minister will live within a reasonable driving distance from the church. As most members commute to church, it is not expected that the minister will live within walking range of the church.

Describe peer and professional supports available for ministers in your association/conference: The Broome County Council of Churches offers multiple supportive ministries. The Susquehanna Association has monthly Clergy Gatherings. The NY Conference has a Community of Practice program for authorized ministers.

WHO IS GOD CALLING TO MINISTER WITH US? Describe the ministry goals you envision your next minister co-collaborating with the congregation to achieve. FCC is a well-established church with a strong core membership who enjoy worshipping together and socializing as friends and family. We are seeking a Pastor who is a warm and caring person, who will bring the word of God to the congregation in a thoughtful and uplifting way. We need a spiritual leader who can inspire and challenge us to grow in faith and will actively support our outreach efforts to neighbors.

Our minister should participate in the life of the church in spiritual and fellowship activities. We are looking for our minister to become involved in ecumenical activities in the community and be an accomplished public speaker. This will assist in attracting new members who want to hear what the new minister has to say. Our congregation is chronologically mature and will value efforts to attract young members and families.

We are seeking a minister who challenges us to think. At the same time, we hope not only to sustain the efforts of our strong core of active members, but also to inspire our less active members to participate regularly in church life through innovative activities and initiatives. Ultimately, our goal is to grow our congregation both in numbers and in participation in the total life of the church.

FCC is a progressive congregation. While being progressive has many dimensions, our emphasis is upon the spiritual foundation of the whole of our lives. All opinions are valued, and we are respectful when we disagree. We seek a minister who will respect the diversity of viewpoints. We seek a minister who will help us frame social justice issues as they relate to our lives as Christians. We look forward to engaging a Pastor who can connect with congregants of all ages on a spiritual level and will work with us

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to direct our gifts and talents to God, our church and our community. We are seeking a long-term relationship.

Describe how your vision of the minister you are now seeking will assist the congregation in making an impact beyond its walls. We envision our new Pastor as one who will become active in our community and encourage ecumenical interaction with our local faith groups. Our church building is a spiritual gathering place for activities such as Buddhist Sangha and meditation, as well as other spiritual study groups. We also house space for The Sophia Center of Spirituality (Roman Catholic), Southern Tier Solar Works, and The Two Rivers Photography Club. Our Pastor needs to be media savvy (blogging, FaceBook, Website, email communications, etc.) in order to keep us visible and to interact with our younger population.Specify language requirements or culturally-specific capacities preferred in a next ministerial leader, and why those matter to the congregation’s sense of calling. NONE. Four areas of excellence from The Marks of Faithful & Effective Authorized Ministry that your next minister will display to further equip the congregation’s ministry in these areas.

● Exhibiting a spiritual foundation and ongoing spiritual practice● Strengthening inter- and intra-personal assets● Caring for all creation● Working together for justice and mercy

WHO IS GOD CALLING US TO BECOME? Who is God calling you to become as a congregation?FCC Mission Statement is: To Feed the Hungry: Body, Mind and Spirit.We aim to be more visible and interactive in our community; to reach beyond our walls, inviting community members to join us and, when people come, to truly and sincerely welcome them and involve them in our ministries.

Our Faith Works Fellowship group was formed to provide fellowship within our congregation and our neighbors. There is a monthly meeting, except for summer, where there is a program or movie, along with a meal. The Faith Works Fellowship organizes a hospitality tent during the St. Patrick’s Day parade, providing hot dogs, popcorn, baked goods, coffee and hot chocolate to our neighbors along the parade route. They also have facilitated a program to provide turkey dinners at Thanksgiving for some of our less fortunate neighbors. For several years, we have been able to provide 30 Thanksgiving meals. We plan to add enhanced audio/visual upgrades to our sanctuary’s current system to keep up with technology in an effort to help engage a younger population. SUNY Binghamton has expanded many of its programs and dormitories to the downtown area

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within walking distance of our church, and we would like to be more attractive to this population.

Describe how God is calling you to reach out to address the emerging challenges and opportunities of your community and congregation. We like to think of ourselves as a chronologically mature congregation with a lot of spunk. It’s impressive what we accomplish with a limited number of volunteers. However, we need to expand our opportunities to our older folks to gather together (for coffee, meals, games, book clubs, movies, i.e.) which will help alleviate the Loneliness Epidemic that many elderly people endure. Our church is a place of solace and support to the community. We are just around the corner from Binghamton High School, and after a tragedy at the school, as well as after the shootings at the ACA (American Civic Association) 10 years ago, we were able to offer that steadfast support. For a time, we also provided a breakfast served to neighborhood children prior to Sunday worship, which was well attended.

WHO ARE WE NOW? CONGREGATIONAL REFLECTIONS

Describe your congregation’s life of faith. We begin each service by declaring “No matter who you are or where you are in life’s journey, you are welcome here at First Congregational Church.” We are a community of faith. As a church, we seek to lift up the heart, soul and mind of each congregant, to share each other's burdens and joys, and to serve the broader community in accordance with God’s teachings. We want to be uplifted. What is going to help us be better people? What will help us deal with the unpleasant things in life? We feel that it is OK to have different thoughts about being a Christian. We are honored to be in the presence of people who are open to hearing and receiving sermons that are outside a traditional Christian approach. Challenging us to think leads to our growth. Describe several strengths or positive qualities of your congregation. We value being a welcoming church to our community. It was a unanimous decision to become an Open and Affirming church 10 years ago. Our congregation, comprised of a wide range of Christian faith backgrounds, extends its acceptance to each member without regard to their religious upbringing, demographic characteristics, circumstances, and even political beliefs. We enjoy sermons that are original and adventurous. We are each on our own faith journey, and that is respected.

● Music is important to our congregation. We have a small, but powerful choir that is accentuated by a magnificent Aeolian Skinner organ for traditional hymns. Joyful Noise performs monthly and special occasions with contemporary music. Jazz Vespers is a

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service that attracts music lovers to our sanctuary who might not normally attend a regular church service.

● The guiding principle of our congregation is love. We provide both support and comfort to our members in times of loss or distress, as well as recognition in celebration of milestones or achievements. We lift up joys and concerns as an important part of our worship service. In social settings, our family loves to laugh and have fun.

● We firmly believe that God Is Still Speaking.

Describe what worship is like when your congregation gathers. Our worship experience is inviting and inclusive. We like to feel it is a family reunion each Sunday in an informal atmosphere. We make a priority of welcoming visitors and one another during our Passing of the Peace at the beginning of service. Sharing our joys and concerns is an important way we prayerfully connect with one another.

Ours is a traditional order of worship, but we are not tied to the use of the Revised Common Lectionary and are open to other sources to inform our worship. We predominantly have organ music 3 out of 4 weeks each month except for July and August. From September through June, our adult choir sings on the first 2 Sundays, and the third week our praise band, Joyful Noise, provides all of the worship music. Summertime is when various musicians and vocal artists from the congregation grace us with their gifts. We use Hymns of Truth & Light as our hymnal, and our pew Bible is NRSV. A liturgist assists the pastor in leading worship through the first scripture reading; the pastor conducts the rest of the service.

There are some nontraditional aspects to our service, too. We do not recite a prayer of confession/assurance of pardon. Worship begins with a welcome and announcements, Passing the Peace, ringing the bell and lighting the candles, and the musical prelude. The congregation joins in a unison “Statement of Oneness” prior to the Call to Worship. The children’s sermon occurs when there are youth in worship; our goal is to have it weekly. There is room for creativity, imagination, and flexibility. Describe the educational program and/or faith formation vision of your church. Christian education happens in all we do and say as we interact with church family as well as the wider community. As a “welcoming and affirming” church, our educational mission is to provide opportunities for faith development to children and adults through worship, mission, and various educational settings.

Our staff includes a child-care provider/teacher. For adults, there is a midweek Spiritual Book Group that reads and discusses a wide variety of books. There are also Adult Forums held during the year on relevant current topics. Our church library is overseen by a retired

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professional Librarian who also acts as our Historian. The Library collection is varied and numbers over 1400 items. Describe how your congregation is organized for ministry and mission. There are 3 boards: Deacons, Trustees, and Council. Trustees handle all building and financial issues. The Deacons are responsible for Worship, Christian Education, Congregational Care, and Mission. The Council is made up of a Chairperson and Vice Chairperson, the Pastor, and representatives from the other boards and committees and at-large members. There are separate committees for fellowship, Christian education, mission, personnel, and finance. When it comes to decision-making, how many hours are spent in meetings per month? 8-10 hours

Think of a time when action had to be taken quickly, for example when a crisis or disaster occurred. How was that accomplished?Our most recent update to FCC was the remodeling of the main entrance from our parking lot.This design change allows for much easier and more convenient access to our facility. In July 2019 there was significant rain water leakage detected in Fellowship Hall. The Trustees were immediately notified by the custodian and a group of church members quickly removed ceiling tiles, wall boards, and floor tiles. A dehumidifier was quickly installed to dry out the area to prevent mold.The Trustees are currently working on determining the source of the leak. Fortunately, a member of the congregation owns a drain-cleaning business. He scoped the main drain from the building and detected a blockage. There may be other issues that could be contributing to the problem as well as potential drainage issues from the construction project. The Trustees will continue to monitor the situation and make plans to repair the interior damage. If the repair work becomes a major expense, the Trustees will prepare a plan for Church Council, with options to present to the congregation at a Congregational Meeting for approval of funds.

Can you provide the next minister with a copy of an organization structure, Bylaws and/or Annual Report to further explain the patterns of the church’s activity and governance? Yes

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CONGREGATIONAL DEMOGRAPHICS Describe those who participate in your church.

Is this number an estimate? (check

if yes)

Number of active members: 65

Number of active nonmembers: 62

Total of church participants (sum of the numbers above):

127

Percentage of total participants who have been in the church:

Is this percentage an estimate?

(check if yes)

More than 10 years: 80 X

Less than 10, more than 5 years: 10 X

Less than 5 years: 10 X

Number of total participants by age:

0-11 12-17 18-24 25-34 45-54 55-64 65-74 75+ Are these numbers an

estimate? (check if yes)

2 3 5 5 5 10 20 50 X

Percentage of adults in various household types:

Is this percentage an estimate?

(check if yes)

Single adults under 35: 5 X

Joint household with minors: 5 X

Single adults age 35-65: 15 X

Joint household with no minors: 60 X

Single adults over 65: 15 X

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Education level of adult participants by percentage:

Is this percentage an estimate?

(check if yes)

High school: 20 X

College: 40 X

Graduate School: 20 X

Specialty Training: 20 X

Other (please specify):

Percentage of adults in various employment types:

Is this number an estimate? (check

if yes)

Adults who are employed: 30 X

Adults who are retired: 60 X

Adults who are not fully employed: 10 X

Describe the range of occupations of working adults in the congregation: We have as members health professionals, businessmen, firefighter, teachers, librarian, social workers, secretaries, college professor, engineer, editor, and supervisors. Describe the mix of ethnic heritages in your congregation, and the overall racial make-up: Our congregation is 95% Caucasian of various ethnic heritage. Most are of European descent. We have a group of Haitians who attend regularly. Our most recent family is of Romanian descent. List the date your congregation has had or will have a conversation using a resource such as the Welcoming Diversity Inventory: We haven’t done the Inventory yet.

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PARTICIPATION AND STAFFING

Ways of Gathering Estimated number of people involved in attendance

Who plans each of the listed gatherings? (list any and all worship planners, such as various lay leaders, pastors, musicians, other staff)

Adult Groups or Classes 75 Christ. Ed, Deacons, Outside Groups

Baptisms (number last year) 2 infants

Children’s Groups or Classes 4 Christ. Ed

Christmas Eve and Easter Worship 95 & 75

Church-Wide Meals 20-25

90 Faith Works Fellowship

Thanksgiving

Choirs and Music Groups 16 2 Choirs

Church-Based Bible Study 15 Spiritual Book Group

Communion (served how often?) 11/year Deacons

Community Meals 450 Church Council

Faith Works FellowshipConfirmation (number confirmed last year)

0

Drama or Dance Program 475 Outside Theater Group

Funerals (number last year) 1

Intergenerational Groups 0

Outdoor Worship Easter Joyful Noise and Pastor

Prayer or Meditation Groups 1

Public Advocacy Work 0

Retreats 0

Theology or Bible Programs in the Community 0

Weddings (number last year) 1

Worship (time slot: 10:00 AM)

Worship (time slot: 5:00 PM Jazz Vespers,

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1/month Oct. - May)

Young Adult Groups or Classes 0

Youth Groups or Classes 0

Other 0

List all members or regular participants in your congregation who are ordained, licensed, or commissioned ministers.

Name Three-Way or Four-Way Covenant? (3 or 4 or No)

Ministry Setting Type of Ministry Role

Retired? (Y or N)

Rev. Janet Abel Ordained UCC

MinisterNursing Home Lutheran Church

ChaplainPastor

No

Rev. Dr. Arthur Suggs

Ordained PCUSA Minister Yes

Rev. Dr. Barry Downing

Ordained PCUSAMinister

Yes

Rev. Dr. Bob White

Ordained PCUSA Minister

Occasional Pulpit Supply

Yes

Rev. Jim DunnOrdained UCC

Minister Yes

In addition to the ordained clergy, we have a member-in-discernment. He does supply preaching for our congregation and we have supported him financially. He is starting a new Saturday evening alternative worship for the unchurched.

If one or more previous pastors or retired ministers currently hold membership in the church, describe their role(s) in the life of the congregation: The ministry of our previous pastor, Rev. Art Suggs, was much appreciated and admired. Art clearly notified the congregation upon his retirement that he is no longer our Pastor. He joined First Congregational Church and has established many friendships here. It is our expectation that Rev. Suggs and his family will continue to participate in the life of First Congregational Church through their presence at Sunday worship and social gatherings. Maintaining this relationship is important to us. FCC conferred the honor of Pastor Emeritus on Rev. Dr. Suggs.

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Rev. Downing, Rev. White, and Rev. Dunn attend Sunday worship and participate in study groups, mission projects, and outreach. Rev. White provides pulpit supply when asked to do so. All of our retired pastors would like to be a colleague to our next pastor.

List all current staff, including ministers:

Staff Position Head of Staff? Compensation (full time, part time, volunteer)

Supervised by

Length of Tenure for current person in this position

Church Administrator No Part Time Trustees 4 months

Custodian No Part time Church

Administrator10 years

Choir DirectorOrganist No

Part time Deacons 17 years

Joyful Noise Accompanist

No Part time Deacons 3 years

Childcare Provider/Teacher

No Part Time CE Committee 10 years

Interim Pastor Yes Full Time Deacons < 1 year

REFLECTION After reviewing the congregational demographics and activities above, what does this information reflect about your congregation’s overall ministry? Our congregation understands that we are an aging church living in a beautiful old home.As a large family we do well genuinely caring for one another in all aspects of life. We need to be more active in letting the community know who we are. We have done well in the past few years, opening up our facility to outside groups. Binghamton University has expanded to the downtown area, and we realize that we need to find ways to become more welcoming to this population and share in this new vitality.

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CHURCH FINANCES Current annual income (dollars used during the most recent fiscal year)

Source Amount

Annual Offerings and Pledged Giving $ 61,286

Endowment Proceeds (as permitted within spending policy, such as a cap of typically 4.5%-5% on total return)

$ 169,088

Endowment Draw (beyond what is permitted by spending policy, “drawing down the principal”) $ 0

Fund-raising Events $ 1063

Gifts Designated for a Specific Purpose $

Grants $ 0

Rentals of Church Building $ 26,814

Rentals of Church Parsonage $ N/A

Support from Related Organizations (e.g. Women’s Group) $ 4,915

Transfers from Special Accounts $ 1,407

Other (specify): $

Other (specify): $

TOTAL $ 264,573 Current annual expenses (dollars budgeted for most recent fiscal year):

Budget available upon request.

Considering total budgeted expenses for the year, compare total ministerial support. What is the percentage? 37% Has the church ever failed to pay its financial obligations to a minister of the church? Yes, to Rev. Arthur Pierson in 1863. The church building was sold to cover expenses.

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Is your church 5-for-5, i.e. does it include each of the following contributions during the church year? (Indicate those included during the most recent fiscal year.)

_X_ Our Church’s Wider Mission (OCWM – Basic Support) _X_ One Great Hour of Sharing _X_ Strengthen the Church _X_ Neighbors in Need _X_ Christmas Fund

In what way is OCWM (Basic Support) gathered? OCWM is voted as part of the Annual Budget. It represents 20% of pledged budget. The amount has remained constant in spite of declining membership. Also, we pay a per-capita fee of $2.00/per member. What is the church’s current indebtedness? Total amount of loan debt: Approximately $150,000.

Reason for debt: New roof and Handicap entrance.

Are capital and other payments current? Yes.

If a building program is projected or underway, describe it.In 2018 we completed renovations to provide a handicap-accessible ramp at our main entrance. No other projects are currently planned. If the church has had capital campaigns in the last ten years, describe: None in 10 years.

Describe the prominent mission component(s) involved in the most recent (or current) capital campaign. No campaign.

Does your church have an endowment? Yes.

What is the market value of the assets? Available upon request.

Are funds drawn as needed, regularly, or under certain circumstances? Regularly. What is the percentage rate of draw (last year, compared to 5 years ago)? 4-5% both last year and 5 years ago. Describe draw on endowment, if any, to meet operating budget expenses for the most recent year and the past five years: It exceeds the pledged income.

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At the current rate of draw, how long might the endowment last? Indefinitely.

Please comment on the above calculations or estimates: It reflects the challenge of an aging congregation.

Other Assets:Church building and Property Investments (other than endowment): $80,000

Does your church have a parsonage? No Describe all buildings owned by the church: 150-year-old sanctuary - good condition 58-year-old education wing - good condition

Which spaces are accessible to wheelchairs?

The main floor of the building, which includes the sanctuary, offices, chapel, and most frequently used meeting rooms, is accessible to wheelchairs, as is the lower level, which includes Fellowship Hall and the choir room. The second floor is not accessible. In the sanctuary, the chancel area with the pulpit and choir loft are not accessible by wheelchair; however, the communion table is accessible, and there is a large open space between the chancel and the pews. REFLECTIONAfter reviewing the church’s finances and assets described above, what does this information reflect about your congregation’s mission and ministry? The Trustees are in charge of determining the Annual Budget for the next year. Each Board and Committee that has expenditures evaluates their current-year expenses and provides Trustees with their proposed budget for the upcoming year. The Church Budget is discussed and voted on at the Annual Meeting in January.

We are sensitive to the fact that our pledged and non-pledged income does not cover a significant part of our church budget. We are blessed with a substantial endowment fund from years past. However, we understand that we must continue to be stewards of this good fortune. The Finance Committee, which scrutinizes church expenses, has contracted with a Financial Management team, that has significantly increased the rate of return on our investments. Approximately 4-5% of our investment growth and interest is used to supplement our budget.

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We are aware that the current budget does not provide much in funds for new ministries. Our Missions Committee provides financial support to local charities through our Helpers Fund. We are also supporting an orphanage in Haiti and working on contacts with the UCC in Haiti. Our Christmas Angels mission to local school children in need is a rewarding project. We are optimistic that church growth will help us to expand our ministries in the future.

HISTORICAL INFORMATION Name one to three significant happenings in the history of your church that have shaped the identity of your congregation. Add the most important event in the life of your church in the past 10 years. In 2009, there was a mass shooting at the American Civic Association next door to our church. We were there to provide shelter and support to our neighbors. We have been active in supporting refugee resettlement in the past.In 2011, we sustained widespread flooding in Broome County. Members of our church volunteered in cleanup activities. We also were able to obtain a Disaster Relief Trailer from the UCC in Ohio by a church member who is very active in UCC ministries. We converted classrooms in our education wing to sleeping quarters for visiting church volunteers.

Describe a specific change your church has managed in the recent past. We have expanded the use of our church building in the last 5 years to outside spiritual groups and local activities as a mission to our neighborhood. The parking lot entrance to the building needed revamping to make it Handicap Accessible and more appealing to our visitors and church members. The new carpeting and lighting makes this first impression of our church much more inviting than it had been. As this was a significant financial investment, there were multiple Congregational Conversations and a Special Congregational meeting to vote for the project.

Describe your congregation’s values and practices when it comes to conflict. We have learned from past mistakes that conflict may be unavoidable, but we agree to disagree in a respectful manner. It is important to have the freedom to express opinions. If the issue is not resolved, a Congregational Conversation will be held to make sure there is transparency and thorough discussion of the matter.We adopted a Covenant of Congregational Conduct dated 3-25-2007 that was signed by our church members.

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MINISTERIAL HISTORY (include all previous ministerial staff for the past 30 years)

Staff member’s name Years of service UCC Standing (Y/No)

Rev. Philip H. Mitchell, D.Min. 21 Y

Rev. James W. Morris, D.Min; Interim Minister 2 Y

Rev. Ernest A. Steffensen; Interim Minister 1 Y

Rev. Clifford L. Aerie 4 Y

Rev. Neil A. McClelland; Interim Minister 1 Y

Dr. David W. Dik; Interim Minister 1 Y

Rev. Dr. Christopher l. Xenakis 2 Y

Rev. Dr. Diane L. Christopherson; Interim Minister < 1 Y

Rev. Dr. Barry H. Downing; Interim Minister < 1 N

Rev. Dr. Arthur M. Suggs 11 Pending

Rev. Janet L. Abel; Associate Minister 5 Y

Comment on what your church has learned about itself and its relationship with persons who provided ministerial leadership:FCC has developed close personal ties to almost all of our settled ministers and most of our interim ministers. There was a period of conflict during the 1990’s after the pastor left and the interim ministers who followed were not a good fit for our congregation. Has any past leader left under pressure or by involuntary termination? YesHas a past pastor been the subject of a Fitness Review while at your church? No.

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WHO IS OUR NEIGHBOR? COMMUNITY VISION How do the relationships and activities of your congregation extend outward in service and advocacy?

Community Flood Recovery Projects.Ice Cream Social Block Party each August with school supply giveawayInteraction with the EKHN Church in GermanyMission Outreach in HaitiOur building is also the meeting place for many outside groups:

● Unity of the Southern Tier congregation● Binghamton Buddhist Meditation Group and its associated Binghamton University ● 3 Jewels Zen meditation group● Conversations with God, A Course in Miracles, and Conscious Evolution ● Mason Warrington Orchestra● Two Rivers Photo Club● Sophia Spirituality Center ● Southern Tier Solar Works

Describe your congregation’s participation in meetings, relationships and activities connecting the wider United Church of Christ (association / conference / national setting). Delegates attend Susquehanna Association Fall and Spring meetings and NY Conference Annual meeting. A member of the congregation is on the NY Conference Board of Directors.We have hosted the NY Conference annual meeting. Mark with an “X” all of the following “statements of witness” that apply to your UCC faith community.

__ Accessible to All (A2A) __ Creation Justice __ Economic Justice __ Faithful and Welcoming _X_ God Is Still Speaking (GISS) _X_ Immigrant Welcoming __ Intercultural/Multiracial (I’M) __ Just Peace _X_ Global Mission Church _X_ Open and Affirming (ONA) __ WISE Congregation for Mental Health

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__ Other UCC designations: __ Other similar designations in affiliated denominations Reflect on what the above statement(s) mean(s) to your community. Is your congregation interested in working toward any of the above statements of witness in the near future? FCC is proud that we have been 5 for 5 in our Offerings to UCC for several years.The items marked with an “X” describe our congregation well. Describe your congregation’s participation in ecumenical and interfaith activities (with other denominations and religious groups, local and regional). Children of Abraham MICAH Prayer Service (Racial Diversity)Unity Church of The Southern TierBuddhist MeditationCommunity Hunger Outreach Warehouse (CHOW)

If your congregation has a mission statement, how does that mission statement compare to the actual time spent engaging in different activities?

Mission Statement: “To Feed the Hungry: Body, Mind and Spirit.” This mission is carried out not only in our local community, but also in the wider communities of our county, state, nation, and the world at large.

Reflect on the scope of work assigned to your pastor(s). How is their community ministry and their ministry in and on behalf of the wider church accounted for in the congregation’s expectations on their time? We expect our Pastor to be involved in community events and to make contacts with local community leaders. Our congregation will commit to these projects and become actively involved.

MissionInSite Comment on your congregation’s MissionInsite report with data for your neighborhood(s) or area. What trends and opportunities are shown? Our MissionInSite report studied a 10-mile radius centered on the church. This encompasses the Greater Binghamton region, including the City of Binghamton, Johnson City, Endicott, Endwell, Chenango Bridge , Chenango Forks, Conklin, and Vestal. While the church itself is located in the heart of the City of Binghamton, participants come from all over the study region.

● The population in the tri-cities area is projected to be stable over the next 10 years. One of the indicators suggests an increase in nonfamily adult households. In other words, fewer children in the area.

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● Ethnically the area is 85% Caucasian (non-Hispanic), with the remainder of the population evenly split between Asian, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, and Pacific Islands/Native American/Other.

● Average age is currently about 41 years and is forecast to rise slightly over the next 10 years to 42.5. In the breakdown by Phase of Life, the percentage of those from 18 to 34 is predicted to decrease more than the national average and for those over 65 is expected to increase significantly (by 4.5%). School-Age Trends predicts a decline in middle and high-school-aged children with a possible increase for those in elementary school.

● Average Household income is $63, 941 with a Per-Capita Income of $26,345.● Currently 61% of households with children under 18 are married couples, 39% are single

parent. Projections are that will shift slightly toward more single-parent households.● In the category of marital status, 43% are married, 38% have never been married, 11%

are divorced, 7% are widowed, and 2 % are separated.● Approximately 60% of the adults in the area have more than a high-school diploma or

GED. 13% have a graduate or professional degree, not surprising with SUNY Binghamton University and SUNY Broome in our region.

● 34% of the employed population are in blue-color positions and 66% are in white-collar positions.

The complete Executive MissionInsite Report is available upon request. How do your congregation’s internal demographics compare or contrast to a) the neighborhoods adjacent to your church, and b) other neighborhoods with which your church connects? FCC’s demographics are similar to those of the study area, although we are typically much older and more educated. What we perceive of the neighbors within walking distance to the church is that there are more children, lower income, and lower education than the congregation, with a growing university student population. Very few in the congregation live in the immediate neighborhood.

How are the demographics of the community currently shaping ministry, or not? With fewer children in the community and with many of their parents claiming to be “Nones” or “spiritual but not religious”, there are few children in worship or here on Sunday mornings and less potential to turn that around. We have opportunities to connect with the aging population, offering spiritual education, forums, and activities for gathering.Immediately surrounding the building is a transient population. We held a well-attended breakfast and class for children on Sundays that ended when 3 large families moved out of the area.

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What do you hear when you talk to community leaders and ask them what your church is known for? Progressive. Welcoming.Open and Affirming. Generosity: Shared space with the Armenian community.Aid during 2011 floodFormer CHOW pantryCommunity leadership by the pastor.Good location for hosting events.

What do new people in the church say when asked what got them involved? Newcomers like the welcoming, warm and inviting atmosphere, and progressive theology of the congregation. REFERENCES REFERENCE 1Rev. Barry Downing / Ret. PCUSA Minister / Northminster Presbyterian Church, Endwell, NY.(607) 748-9861 / barrydowning@yahoo.com / Previous Interim Minister

REFERENCE 2 Joe Sellepack / Director Broome County Council of Churches / Binghamton, NY(607) 724-9130 / jsellepack@broomecouncil.net / CHOW - Council of Churches

REFERENCE 3Rev. Pat Raube / Union Presbyterian Church / Endicott, NY(607) 759-1186 / magdalene6127@yahoo.com / Local Pastor familiar with congregation

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CLOSING THOUGHTS CLOSING PRAYER STATEMENT OF CONSENT CONFERENCE/ASSOCIATION VALIDATION

CLOSING PRAYER Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:where there is hatred, let me sow love;where there is injury, pardon;where there is doubt, faith;where there is despair, hope;where there is darkness, light;where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seekto be consoled as to console,to be understood as to understand,to be loved as to love.For it is in giving that we receive,it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.Amen.STATEMENT OF CONSENT

The covenantal relationship between a church and those called by that church to serve as

pastors and teachers and in other ministerial positions is strengthened when vital information is

openly shared by covenantal partners. To that end, we attest that, to the best of our abilities,

we have provided information in this profile that accurately represents our church. We have not

knowingly withheld any information that would be helpful to candidates.

As the committee charged with the responsibility for identifying and recommending a suitable

new minister for our church, we have been authorized to share the information herein with

potential candidates. We understand that a candidate may wish to secure further knowledge,

information, and opinions about our church. We encourage a candidate to do so, recognizing

that an open exchange of relevant information builds the foundation for continuing and healthy

relationships between calling bodies and persons seeking a ministry position.

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1. Which individuals and groups in the church contributed to the contents of this Local

Church Profile?

○ The Profile-Writing Team with input from Church Council and other key

members.

○ Information from congregational conversations○ The congregation at a special meeting.

2. Additional comments for interpreting the profile:

First Congregational Church hopes that after reading our Profile a prospective candidate will pick up the phone and say “I want to know more about these people!”We are an independent group who may not follow the norm and are eager to have a like-minded Pastor who is energetic and can pass on that spirit and vitality to others.

Signed:

Name / Title / Date: VALIDATION BY CONFERENCE/ASSOCIATION

The congregation is currently in good standing with the association / conference named.

Staff Comment: First Congregational, Binghamton NY is in good standing with the Susquehanna Association of the New York Conference.

To the best of my knowledge, ministerial history information is complete. Staff Comment: Yes To the best of my knowledge, available church financial information is presented thoroughly.

Staff Comment: Yes My signature below attests to the above three items.

Signature:

Name / Title: Phone: 845-500-5082Date: 11/6/2019

This document is created through support to Our Church’s Wider Mission (OCWM) and is only possible through the covenantal relationships of all settings of the United Church of Christ.

“Jesus answered them, ‘Have faith in God!’” – Mark 11:22

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