Rev. Dr. Curran Reichert, Pastor

The vision I have for our congregation is to be the church people would go to if they went to church. I want visitors to walk through the sanctuary doors and feel the authenticity from the moment they enter to the moment they leave. It is my experience over this past decade of service that the love this congregation has to share is palpable and trustworthy. We are a group of faithful seekers who wrestle together with some of life’s most important questions. We are the church of justice and joy, embodying God’s invitation to practice radical abundance.

Each week, on Sundays and throughout the week, we practice our faith in God and our indomitable hope that what we do can and does have an impact on the world around us. We at First Congregational Church Sonoma are committed to our neighbors and community. It is our vision that each one of us, in small and larger ways, is a living prayer and champion for right action in our beautiful and hurting world.

We hope you will come and see us soon.

Rev. Curran Reichert

Thoughts from the Pastor
Look for Rev. Curran's articles on the first Monday of the month

10/05/2026

Greetings Beloved Community,

We have just celebrated World Communion Sunday, an opportunity to attune our hearts to people of faith worldwide and ground ourselves in Christianity’s call “that all may be one.” I am grateful to Alice Pickton and Karen Andrews for serving with open hearts at our newly established prayer stations on Communion Sundays. We all need a loving touch and a moment of spiritual care, and their ministry has stepped forward to meet that need.

The Pastoral Discretion Fund
This month, I want to highlight the Pastoral Discretion Fund. Many people are unaware of the fund because its work is intentionally quiet, yet, like our prayer stations, it exists to meet profound needs in our community. The fund is not included in our annual budget and depends entirely on designated donations. It helps bridge financial gaps for people who are unable to make ends meet, both within and beyond our immediate church family. It has provided resources for groceries, gas, emergency hotel stays, and assistance with utility and medical bills. These gifts are generally one-time contributions for people in crisis. Because they are confidential and made at my discretion, recipients can receive support while maintaining their privacy and dignity.

Supporting Staff and Church Leaders
The fund is also used to express appreciation for staff and recognize church leaders. Over the past decade, it has been a great consolation to act on your behalf—celebrating when the occasion calls for it and offering support when that is needed most. The Pastoral Discretion Fund gives me the flexibility to respond promptly and, at times, proactively.

How to Give
Your Council leadership has agreed that an additional offering will be received on the first Sunday of each month to support the Pastoral Discretion Fund. You are also welcome to donate at any time by sending a check to the church office. Your generosity will make a positive difference, rippling outward in beautiful ways.

Thank you for helping our church respond with compassion, care, and hope whenever a need arises.

With Love,
Curran