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 contemplative at 9:00am or regular in person at 10:30am.

Notes from the Pastor

January 20, 2025

For a New Year

by Holly Wren Spaulding

Let plain things please you again
and every ordinary Monday.
Bean soup in a white bowl,
firewood in your arms.
The weight of longing.

That you have survived is evidence

that nothing is assured

but you are lucky.

Looking up from this page

let all of it surprise you—

piled mail, other people, the air.

Twenty-five years ago, fresh out of seminary, I asked a seasoned pastor colleague of mine where she found all of her amazing quotes and inspirational poetry. She chuckled kindly and replied, “here, there, and everywhere.”

Certainly, I was disappointed at the time because I was hoping to find the key to infinite pools of wisdom and save myself some time and effort. Her advice, however, was wiser than I could have known at the time because it sent me on a path of personal exploration that I wouldn’t trade for the world.

Over the years I have signed up or signed on to what feels like hundreds of different groups online, in print, via carrier pigeon, you name it I’ve explored it. From each exploration has come tender insights, powerful guidance, and poetry that has enriched my life and opened my eyes, heart, and mind.

My colleague was right, wisdom can indeed be found here, there, and everywhere. As we age, we develop our own canon of sacred resources from which we draw strength. It could be a comic strip we have followed for years, or a beloved book we return to time after time. Whatever your canon is, my prayer is that in trying times you reach out to be reminded of the goodness and courage you have derived from your own rich collection of words, phrases, poetry, songs, and stories. Like faithful friends, may they continue to surprise and support you with new awareness and insight. And, if you think of it, share your favorites with me. They may end up on a Sunday service bulletin cover or woven into a sermon. Who knows what wisdom someone else will derive from your treasures.

May you continue to feel surrounded by love,
Curran