Rev. Dr. Curran Reichert, Pastor

The slightly irreverent Reverend Dr. Curran Reichert has been stirring up “good trouble,” and serving up questions that challenge us to grow spiritually for the past seven years at FCC. She believes in the power of Spiritual community to be a force for good in the world. Curran is highly educated and completely dedicated to making Sonoma Valley a more just and equitable place.

Throughout the Valley, Rev. Reichert lends her perspective as a faith leader to addressing the need for fair housing and worker justice. She has been a leading voice concerning fair treatment of those without permanent shelter. She is committed to doing her part to end racial bias and deconstruct colonialism in the church and in our community.

Rev. Reichert also understands that Christianity can be scary for people who have suffered abuse, or oppression due to bigotry and religious intolerance. She creates what she hopes will be a safe entry point for those seeking the support of a radically inclusive community of faith. Her motto is “Purpose, Presence, and Practice,” she embodies all three.

We love our pastor, and we think you will love her to. If you would like to make an appointment to meet with Rev. Reichert, receive prayers, or a visit from our support team, send her a message or call the church office at 707.996.1328.

Rev. Reichert often says, “FCC is the place you would want to go to church if you went to church.” We are a gathering of spirited people who care about earth justice, speaking out about injustice, tending to the vulnerable, and learning to find common ground, these are the relevant earmarks of our congregation. We invite you to join us on Sunday mornings either online at 8:30 or in person at 10:30.

Notes from the Pastor

November 4, 2024

Greetings Beloved Community,

The day is drawing ever closer, very soon we will know who is elected the next President of our country. As we all expected, tensions are high, and spirits are weary from having done all that can be done to encourage people to cast their ballots in support of the future of Democracy.

What gives me consolation is the idea that regardless of what decision is made and who occupies the Oval Office, the work of our congregation is the same today as it will be tomorrow. We are a people who have committed our lives to living the Gospel message of God’s love for all people. That doesn’t mean we are always able to do so; it means we strive at all times to do so. November 5 will be no different, another day of striving to embody love in this world.

The Spirit Life Team has thought ahead to ensure you have a place to go throughout the day on Tuesday and in the afternoon on Wednesday. Please take advantage of those times to come together and reground your spirits.

Quiet reflection in the Sanctuary on Tuesday: 9:30-10:30 a.m., 12-1 p.m., 5-6 p.m.

The Sanctuary will be open on Wednesday from 12-3 p.m.

On retreat at the Redwoods Monastery in October I was able to ask the Abbess of the Monastery, SR Kathy De Vico, what she recommended for keeping a clear mind and a steady spirit pre- and post-election. Her best advice was to hold onto something that gives us strength - a tree, a holy book, a sacred symbol - and don’t let go.

So beloved, let us hold onto the promise that God was, is, and ever shall be our rock and our strength. I keep a running playlist of Taize chants in my mind, the one I hear the most right now is “Jesus Christ, Jesus Christ, yesterday, today, and tomorrow.”

For all that has been, for all that is, and for all that will be, let us give thanks.

In peace and with love,
Curran