
Upcoming events
Our church services are on Sundays at 8:45am and 10:00am. We also have an evening service at 5:00pm on the first Sunday of each month.

New Members Class
You're Invited to a New Members Class!
Date: Sunday, March 30, 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Location: Fireside Room, First Congregational Church of Ramona
Are you interested in learning more about First Congregational Church of Ramona? Whether you're new to our community or have been attending for a while, this is a perfect opportunity to explore who we are, where we've been, and where we're going.
During this class, we'll discuss our church’s history, our mission and ministries, and our hopes for the future. You’ll also have the chance to ask questions and get to know more about what it means to be part of our church family.
There’s no obligation to become a member by attending this class, but the option will be available to you if you feel ready to take that step.
Already a member? You're welcome too! Join us to refresh your understanding of our shared journey and vision for the future.
We’d love to see you there! If you have any questions, feel free to contact the church office.
Come and discover how you can be part of the story we’re writing together!

Open Door Meal
Monday Night Open Door Meal – All Are Welcome!
Join us every Monday (except the 2nd Monday of the month) at 7:00 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall for our Open Door Meal—a free, warm meal for anyone who could use one. Whether you’re in need of a meal yourself or know someone who might benefit, we invite you to come, eat, and share in a time of community and care. No reservations, no requirements—just a good meal and a welcoming space.
Spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

Lenten Bible Study
LENTEN BIBLE STUDY: THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT
Join us for a three-part Lenten Bible study as we journey through Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, exploring his words as a proclamation of grace, relationship, and kingdom citizenship.
WHEN & WHERE:
📅 Week 1 – March 26 | 6:30 PM (Matthew 5)
📅 Week 2 – April 2 | 6:30 PM (Matthew 6)
📅 Week 3 – April 9 | 6:30 PM (Matthew 7)
📍 First Congregational Church of Ramona
WHAT WE’LL EXPLORE:
📖 Week 1 – March 26 (Matthew 5)
A deep dive into the Beatitudes, understanding them not as covert commandments but as blessings—a declaration of our identity in God's kingdom and a vision of the world to come.
📖 Week 2 – April 2 (Matthew 6)
Jesus extends the Torah, not as a call to mere piety, but as an invitation into relationship with God. We will explore his triads and the Lord’s Prayer, discovering how they shape our eschatological identity.
📖 Week 3 – April 9 (Matthew 7)
Discipleship means living now as citizens of the coming Kingdom. We'll reflect on Jesus' parable of the wise and foolish builders, discerning what it means to build our lives on the rock of Christ’s words.
Come and journey with us this Lent as we listen to Jesus’ vision of life in the Kingdom of God.
ALL ARE WELCOME!

Open Door Meal
Monday Night Open Door Meal – All Are Welcome!
Join us every Monday (except the 2nd Monday of the month) at 7:00 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall for our Open Door Meal—a free, warm meal for anyone who could use one. Whether you’re in need of a meal yourself or know someone who might benefit, we invite you to come, eat, and share in a time of community and care. No reservations, no requirements—just a good meal and a welcoming space.
Spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

Lenten Bible Study
LENTEN BIBLE STUDY: THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT
Join us for a three-part Lenten Bible study as we journey through Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, exploring his words as a proclamation of grace, relationship, and kingdom citizenship.
WHEN & WHERE:
📅 Week 1 – March 26 | 6:30 PM (Matthew 5)
📅 Week 2 – April 2 | 6:30 PM (Matthew 6)
📅 Week 3 – April 9 | 6:30 PM (Matthew 7)
📍 First Congregational Church of Ramona
WHAT WE’LL EXPLORE:
📖 Week 1 – March 26 (Matthew 5)
A deep dive into the Beatitudes, understanding them not as covert commandments but as blessings—a declaration of our identity in God's kingdom and a vision of the world to come.
📖 Week 2 – April 2 (Matthew 6)
Jesus extends the Torah, not as a call to mere piety, but as an invitation into relationship with God. We will explore his triads and the Lord’s Prayer, discovering how they shape our eschatological identity.
📖 Week 3 – April 9 (Matthew 7)
Discipleship means living now as citizens of the coming Kingdom. We'll reflect on Jesus' parable of the wise and foolish builders, discerning what it means to build our lives on the rock of Christ’s words.
Come and journey with us this Lent as we listen to Jesus’ vision of life in the Kingdom of God.
ALL ARE WELCOME!


Ecumenical Good Friday Gathering
Ecumenical Good Friday Gathering
Friday, April 18, 2025 | Time TBD
First Congregational Church of Ramona
Join us for a deeply moving Ecumenical Good Friday Gathering as we come together with congregations from Ramona, Escondido, and Poway to reflect on the passion and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Through Scripture, prayer, and music, we will journey through the story of the Cross, uniting in solemn remembrance of Christ’s love poured out for the world.
This gathering is a collaborative effort between First Congregational Church of Ramona (UCC), First Congregational Church of Escondido (UCC), Community Church of Poway (UCC), Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church (ELCA), St. Mary’s in the Valley Episcopal Church, and Ramona United Methodist Church. Together, these diverse Christian traditions will share in worship and reflection, bearing witness to the hope and love found in the story of Good Friday.
All are welcome to participate in this sacred time of reflection and devotion.
For more information, please contact us.

Open Door Meal
Monday Night Open Door Meal – All Are Welcome!
Join us every Monday (except the 2nd Monday of the month) at 7:00 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall for our Open Door Meal—a free, warm meal for anyone who could use one. Whether you’re in need of a meal yourself or know someone who might benefit, we invite you to come, eat, and share in a time of community and care. No reservations, no requirements—just a good meal and a welcoming space.
Spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

Open Door Meal
Monday Night Open Door Meal – All Are Welcome!
Join us every Monday (except the 2nd Monday of the month) at 7:00 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall for our Open Door Meal—a free, warm meal for anyone who could use one. Whether you’re in need of a meal yourself or know someone who might benefit, we invite you to come, eat, and share in a time of community and care. No reservations, no requirements—just a good meal and a welcoming space.
Spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
All Aboard for Rocky Railway Vacation Bible School!
Join us at First Congregational Church of Ramona from June 23-27 for a week of adventure on the Rocky Railway! This year’s Vacation Bible School will be an unforgettable journey where kids discover how Jesus' power pulls us through life's ups and downs.
Each day from 9 AM to 12 PM, children will explore Bible stories, enjoy fun activities, crafts, and music that will energize their spirits. It’s a great opportunity for kids to build friendships, deepen their faith, and learn that trusting Jesus will keep them on track through all of life’s challenges.
Who: Kids ages 4-12
When: June 23-27, 9 AM - 12 PM
Where: First Congregational Church of Ramona, 404 Eighth Street
Let your kids experience the joy of discovering that they can trust Jesus through all of life’s twists and turns!
We can't wait to see you there!

Lenten Bible Study
LENTEN BIBLE STUDY: THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT
Join us for a three-part Lenten Bible study as we journey through Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, exploring his words as a proclamation of grace, relationship, and kingdom citizenship.
WHEN & WHERE:
📅 Week 1 – March 26 | 6:30 PM (Matthew 5)
📅 Week 2 – April 2 | 6:30 PM (Matthew 6)
📅 Week 3 – April 9 | 6:30 PM (Matthew 7)
📍 First Congregational Church of Ramona
WHAT WE’LL EXPLORE:
📖 Week 1 – March 26 (Matthew 5)
A deep dive into the Beatitudes, understanding them not as covert commandments but as blessings—a declaration of our identity in God's kingdom and a vision of the world to come.
📖 Week 2 – April 2 (Matthew 6)
Jesus extends the Torah, not as a call to mere piety, but as an invitation into relationship with God. We will explore his triads and the Lord’s Prayer, discovering how they shape our eschatological identity.
📖 Week 3 – April 9 (Matthew 7)
Discipleship means living now as citizens of the coming Kingdom. We'll reflect on Jesus' parable of the wise and foolish builders, discerning what it means to build our lives on the rock of Christ’s words.
Come and journey with us this Lent as we listen to Jesus’ vision of life in the Kingdom of God.
ALL ARE WELCOME!

Open Door Meal
Monday Night Open Door Meal – All Are Welcome!
Join us every Monday (except the 2nd Monday of the month) at 7:00 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall for our Open Door Meal—a free, warm meal for anyone who could use one. Whether you’re in need of a meal yourself or know someone who might benefit, we invite you to come, eat, and share in a time of community and care. No reservations, no requirements—just a good meal and a welcoming space.
Spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

Open Door Meal
Monday Night Open Door Meal – All Are Welcome!
Join us every Monday (except the 2nd Monday of the month) at 7:00 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall for our Open Door Meal—a free, warm meal for anyone who could use one. Whether you’re in need of a meal yourself or know someone who might benefit, we invite you to come, eat, and share in a time of community and care. No reservations, no requirements—just a good meal and a welcoming space.
Spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

Free Farmer's Market
Mark your calendars for the second Friday of every month and join us for our Free Farmers' Market! We partner with Feeding San Diego to provide fresh produce and good food to our community—absolutely free.
Food Distribution:
When: Second Friday of every month
Time: Distribution begins at 12:30 PM
Volunteer Opportunities: We need dedicated volunteers to help make this event a success! You can assist with setup and distribution during the following shifts:
Morning Shift: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Afternoon Shift: 12:15 PM - 2:00 PM
Everyone is welcome to come and receive nutritious food and fresh produce. Help us share the bounty and support our neighbors in need! If you're interested in volunteering or have any questions, please contact the church office.
Together, let's make a difference in our community!

Serve Ramona Laundry Day
Join us for Serve Ramona Laundry Day on Thursday, March 14, at NBT Laundromat (1530 Main St, Ramona, CA 92065)! We’ll be there from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 – 7:00 p.m., covering the cost for anyone in the community to get their laundry done for free—including detergent and even snacks!
This event is made possible through Serve Ramona, an ecumenical partnership of local churches, including St. Mary’s in the Valley, Christ the King Anglican, Spirit of Joy Lutheran, Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, the Ramona Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Ramona United Methodist, and more.
How You Can Help: We’re collecting donations of individually packaged snacks (granola bars, crackers, etc.) to share with our guests. If you’d like to contribute, please bring your donations to the church office.
Spread the word—let’s make this a day of service and care for our community!

Drive-Up Ashes
Join us as we mark the beginning of Lent with Drive-Up Ashes on Ash Wednesday, March 5, from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. in the Albertsons parking lot.
The congregations of St. Mary’s in the Valley Episcopal Church, First Congregational Church, Ramona United Methodist Church, and Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church invite you to drive up, receive ashes and a blessing, and set your intentions for this sacred season.
No need to park—just drive up, receive your ashes, and go as we enter this holy time together. All are welcome!

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Dinner
Join us for a delicious Shrove Tuesday pancake dinner featuring a special devotional by Pastor Wes Ellis. Come together for good food and meaningful reflection.
Tuesday, March 4th in Pilgrim Hall at First Congregational Church of Ramona.
Don't miss out on this delightful evening of community and spiritual nourishment. All are welcome!

Open Door Meal
Monday Night Open Door Meal – All Are Welcome!
Join us every Monday (except the 2nd Monday of the month) at 7:00 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall for our Open Door Meal—a free, warm meal for anyone who could use one. Whether you’re in need of a meal yourself or know someone who might benefit, we invite you to come, eat, and share in a time of community and care. No reservations, no requirements—just a good meal and a welcoming space.
Spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

Open Door Meal
Monday Night Open Door Meal – All Are Welcome!
Join us every Monday (except the 2nd Monday of the month) at 7:00 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall for our Open Door Meal—a free, warm meal for anyone who could use one. Whether you’re in need of a meal yourself or know someone who might benefit, we invite you to come, eat, and share in a time of community and care. No reservations, no requirements—just a good meal and a welcoming space.
Spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

Martin Luther King Jr. Choir Concert
First Congregational Church of Ramona is thrilled to announce an extraordinary event for our community! This free concert will take place in our Sanctuary and will be followed by a reception with refreshments in Pilgrim Hall. Mark your calendars and spread the word—this is a free event and all are welcome!

Men's AND Spouses Breakfast: Special Valentine's Celebration
Join us for a special Men’s Breakfast at First Congregational Church of Ramona as we celebrate Valentine’s Day together. This time, you won’t need to bring your own breakfast—we’ll be cooking and serving a delicious meal for everyone to enjoy.
Most importantly, spouses are invited to share in this time of fellowship. Come for a morning of great food, prayer, and a devotional as we reflect on faith and love.
When: 8:00 a.m.
Where: Pilgrim Hall, FCC Ramona
We look forward to sharing this meaningful morning with you. All are welcome!

Free Farmer's Market
Mark your calendars for the second Friday of every month and join us for our Free Farmers' Market! We partner with Feeding San Diego to provide fresh produce and good food to our community—absolutely free.
Food Distribution:
When: Second Friday of every month
Time: Distribution begins at 12:30 PM
Volunteer Opportunities: We need dedicated volunteers to help make this event a success! You can assist with setup and distribution during the following shifts:
Morning Shift: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Afternoon Shift: 12:15 PM - 2:00 PM
Everyone is welcome to come and receive nutritious food and fresh produce. Help us share the bounty and support our neighbors in need! If you're interested in volunteering or have any questions, please contact the church office.
Together, let's make a difference in our community!

Good Heavens: A Study on Life Beyond Death
Join us on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. in the Fireside Room for a thought-provoking Bible study titled Good Heavens. Together, we’ll explore the rich and varied perspectives on heaven and the afterlife as revealed in Scripture and interpreted throughout Church history. This engaging session will provide an opportunity to reflect on how these views shape our faith and understanding of eternal life. All are welcome!

Souper Bowl of Caring
Join Us for the Souper Bowl of Caring!
Make a difference this Super Bowl season by supporting the Souper Bowl of Caring! While we collect canned food year-round, we’re making a special push for donations on Sunday, February 9th.
Bring canned goods or other non-perishable food items with you to church and help tackle hunger in our community. Together, we can turn this day of football into a day of giving!
https://tacklehunger.org/

Point In Time Count
On the morning of the We All Count Point in Time homeless count, First Congregational Church of Ramona will serve as a host site at 4:00 a.m. This important annual effort provides vital data about homelessness in our community, informing resources and services to support those in need.
Volunteers are essential to making this count a success. By participating, you can help ensure every voice is heard and every person is counted. To register as a volunteer, visit We All Count. Your involvement can make a meaningful difference in addressing homelessness in our region.

Youth Group
Join us for an awesome Youth Group experience Sundays at 4:30 pm (unless otherwise noted)! Expect engaging discussions on relevant topics, laughter-filled activities, and the chance to build lasting friendships within a supportive and welcoming community. Our gatherings are about creating a space where you belong and thrive. Come, bring your friends, and let's embark on this exciting journey together. Find us at the Youth Building at First Congregational Church of Ramona (404 8th Street). For more information, reach out to Brittany Volk or Jamie Walton.

Annual Meeting
Join Us for the Annual Meeting!
📅 Date: Sunday, January 26, 2025
🕙 Time: 11:15am
📍 Location: The sanctuary at First Congregational Church of Ramona
Come together with our church family as we reflect on the past year, celebrate our accomplishments, and look ahead to the exciting opportunities God has in store for us in 2025.
This is a chance to hear important updates, share your voice, and help shape the future of our ministry. Everyone is encouraged to attend. Let's make this meeting a moment of unity, vision, and hope!
We can’t wait to see you there!

Women's Fellowship Chili Night
Plan to Join our meeting on January 25th at 4pm for service, a speaker, supper, and shared stories. Perla Martinez is planning the event and we look forward to getting the women of FCC together to work, eat, and plan for 2025. Hope to see you there!

Death Café (Fireside Room)
At a Death Café people drink tea, eat cake and discuss death. Our aim is to increase awareness of death and life to help people make the most of their (finite) lives. Meets in the Fireside Room.


Men's Prayer Breakfast
The Men’s Prayer Breakfast will take place on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. in Pilgrim Hall at First Congregational Church of Ramona. This is a bring-your-own-breakfast event, offering a chance to connect with other men in the church for meaningful fellowship and prayer. Whether you’re a regular participant or attending for the first time, this gathering is a great opportunity to grow in faith and community. We hope to see you there!

Youth Group
Join us for an awesome Youth Group experience Sundays at 4:30 pm (unless otherwise noted)! Expect engaging discussions on relevant topics, laughter-filled activities, and the chance to build lasting friendships within a supportive and welcoming community. Our gatherings are about creating a space where you belong and thrive. Come, bring your friends, and let's embark on this exciting journey together. Find us at the Youth Building at First Congregational Church of Ramona (404 8th Street). For more information, reach out to Brittany Volk or Jamie Walton.

Free Farmer's Market
Mark your calendars for the second Friday of every month and join us for our Free Farmers' Market! We partner with Feeding San Diego to provide fresh produce and good food to our community—absolutely free.
Food Distribution:
When: Second Friday of every month
Time: Distribution begins at 12:30 PM
Volunteer Opportunities: We need dedicated volunteers to help make this event a success! You can assist with setup and distribution during the following shifts:
Morning Shift: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Afternoon Shift: 12:15 PM - 2:00 PM
Everyone is welcome to come and receive nutritious food and fresh produce. Help us share the bounty and support our neighbors in need! If you're interested in volunteering or have any questions, please contact the church office.
Together, let's make a difference in our community!

Youth Group
Join us for an awesome Youth Group experience Sundays at 4:30 pm (unless otherwise noted)! Expect engaging discussions on relevant topics, laughter-filled activities, and the chance to build lasting friendships within a supportive and welcoming community. Our gatherings are about creating a space where you belong and thrive. Come, bring your friends, and let's embark on this exciting journey together. Find us at the Youth Building at First Congregational Church of Ramona (404 8th Street). For more information, reach out to Brittany Volk or Jamie Walton.

Christmas Eve Worship Gatherings
This Christmas Eve, we invite you to join us for a heartwarming worship gathering filled with love, joy, and community.
Service Times: 5pm, 6pm, & 7pm
Living Nativity: Witness the story of Jesus' birth come to life with our beautiful living Nativity scene.
Candlelight Service: Embrace the warmth and light of the season as we light candles together in a moment of reflection and hope.
Christmas Carols: Sing along to your favorite carols and immerse yourself in the festive spirit.
Gospel Message: Hear the story of Christmas and its message of love and redemption.
All are welcome! Whether you’re a long-time member or a first-time visitor, come and share in the joy of this special evening.
Celebrate with us and make this Christmas Eve unforgettable.

Youth Group Christmas Movie Night!
Youth Group Christmas Movie Night! Please join us in the youth building for a Christmas movie! Please wear your favorite church appropriate Christmas pajamas. Popcorn and Hot Cocoa will be provided!

Christmas Cantata
Come celebrate the beauty and wonder of Christmas with us on Sunday, December 22nd, at our 10:00 a.m. worship gathering at First Congregational Church of Ramona (there will not be an 8:45am gathering that day). Our choir will fill the sanctuary with festive and uplifting music, leading us through most of the service with songs that capture the spirit of the season.
Bring your family and friends to experience the joy of this special Christmas tradition as we prepare our hearts for the arrival of Christ. We look forward to sharing this meaningful time with you!

Journeying Through Advent With Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Join us for an inspiring Bible study series, Journeying Through Advent With Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Guided by Bonhoeffer's profound reflections in God is in the Manger, this three-part study will delve into the themes of Mystery, Redemption, and Incarnation.
Together, we will prepare our hearts for the coming of God in Jesus Christ at Christmas. While we will learn a bit about Bonhoeffer’s life and legacy, our primary focus will be on exploring these Advent themes to deepen our faith and anticipation during this sacred season.
The study will be facilitated by our pastor, Dr. Wes Ellis. Don’t miss this opportunity to reflect, share, and grow in your spiritual journey this Advent. All are welcome!
RSVP Here:

Blue Christmas Worship Gathering
You are warmly invited to our Blue Christmas Worship Service on Tuesday, December 17th at 5:00 p.m.
While Christmas is often a season of joy, we know this time of year can also bring feelings of grief, loss, and sorrow. Our Blue Christmas service is a sacred space to bring those feelings before God, to acknowledge the darkness, and to remember the light that Christ brings into our lives. This will be a time of prayer, reflection, and hope.
Please come as you are and join us for this worshipful and meaningful gathering.

Christmas Sing-Along
Come spread the Christmas cheer at our Community Sing-Along with the churches of Serve Ramona! Join us on Sunday, December 15th, at 2:00 p.m. for an afternoon filled with joyful caroling and festive spirit. We’ll be singing favorite Christmas carols, celebrating the season together, and enjoying delicious cookies shared by friends and neighbors.
Bring your voice, your holiday spirit, and some cookies to share if you’d like. This is a fun, family-friendly event open to all—let’s fill the season with song and community!