Hope, Love, Peace, Joy graphic

This holiday season, we are reminded of the profound impact that acts of kindness and generosity can have on our community. At First Congregational UCC, Sarasota, we believe in the transformative power of sharing God’s love. This season, we invite you to join us in making a difference by participating in various initiatives designed to uplift those in need. Together, we can create a ripple effect of love and hope that resonates far beyond our church walls.

Ways to Share

Community Meal

Volunteer for the Community Meal on Christmas Eve

Join us on December 24th from 4–6:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church to help serve our monthly Community Meal, a warm and welcoming dinner for those in need. Volunteers are needed to:

  • Prepare appetizers and desserts.
  • Set up, serve, and greet our guests with Christmas cheer.

We also need Christmas Cookies to accompany the meal. Please deliver cookies to St. Paul’s by 4 p.m. on Christmas Eve.

Your time and effort bring the gift of nourishment and fellowship to our guests. To volunteer or for more details, contact Carol Hagglund.

Thank you for helping us share the Christmas spirit!

Christmas Love Offering

Support Christmas Love 2024!

This annual fundraiser led by our Mission Team supports local charities and organizations working tirelessly to help our neighbors in need. This year’s recipients include African American Studies at the Betty J. Johnson Library, ALSO Youth, Sarasota Bay Estuary, and several others providing vital services to our community.

Our goal is to raise $20,000 to make a meaningful impact. Please write checks to the church with “Christmas Love” in the memo line. Your generosity is a blessing!

And A Heartfelt Thank You!

Angel Tree Gift Tags

A heartfelt Christmas thank you to the “Angels” who selected a Salvation Army tag and purchased gifts for a child or senior in need. All 70 tags were chosen!

We hope that by providing gifts for others, your joy is increased this holiday season.

Toy Drive for Alta Vista School

Thank you to everyone who generously donated toys for the children at Alta Vista School! Your gifts of books, board games, Legos, and dolls will bring joy to many children this holiday season. We are grateful for your kindness and support in making this outreach a success.

First UCC Women Christmas Bag Program

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated in this year’s program. Thanks to your generous donations and efforts in assembling and wrapping Christmas bags, we are able to bless shut-in seniors in our community, bringing joy to residents of Orchard Place and Meals on Wheels this holiday season.

Your efforts are a true reflection of the spirit of Christ’s love in action.