Meet Our Community

Open the Doors and See All the People

The folks who make up Old First are a diverse bunch. At Old First you’ll worship with single people and married couples; families with two moms and those with a mom & a dad; seniors and twenty-somethings; recent immigrants and those whose heritage in N. America goes back generations. Get to know some of us here, and stop by on Sunday to meet some more.

All

Activists

Bookworms

Builders/Tinkerers

Cyclists

Dreamers

Environmentalists

Gardeners

Gourmands

Grandmoms/Grandads

Immigrants

LGBTQ

Moms/Dads

Movie Buffs

Musicians

Newshounds

Quilters/Knitters/Crafters/etc.

Runners

Shoppers

Sports Fans

Students

"My family moved five times in nine years, and every time, my parents found the nearest Congregational or UCC church for the five of us kids. I get it now — that was their way of finding community. Eventually I wandered into a Sunday service at Old First and what I found was a community that shared my values, where Love First wasn't just a phrase but an action."

Dianne

Old Firster since 2024, Lives in Logan Square
Born in Washington DC, raised in Virginia, I moved to Philadelphia for college and have lived in the Delaware Valley for 25 years (Bucks Co., NJ). The youngest of four, I am married (16 years) with two children (31 yo step-son, 12 yo daughter). Baptized Episcopalian, confirmed Presbyterian, re-confirmed Catholic, then found UCC after a long break from church. Left-handed Pisces with eclectic tastes.

Susan

Old Firster since 2006, Lives in Northern Liberties
I am the school nurse at McCall Elementary - the Philadelphia public school that serves Old First's neighborhood. My father was a UCC pastor, so you could say I was born and bred UCC! I value the welcome, inclusiveness, and hospitality of the UCC and Old First. Love First!

Bobbie

Old Firster Since 1996, Lives in Penn's Landing
I raised beef cattle to put myself through college, had a brief career as a teacher, went to Seminary, tried the church but found my ministry in hospice. Now I volunteer at Old First, Pennsylvania Hospital, and William Way Community Center.

Clark

Old Firster since 2013, Lives in Wynnefield Heights
Moved to Philadelphia after high school to work for the denomination's national church offices. Have served as Old First's financial secretary.

Gerry

Old Firster since 1974, Lives in Germantown
I chase a toddler, because it's fun. I work for you, because it's my calling. I go to church, because it helps me be a better person.

Jonathan

Old Firster since 2001, Lives in Merion Station, PA
I’m a refugee from Liberia, West Africa. I came to the US for my daughter’s medical treatment when she was an infant, and Old First was very instrumental in helping my family get settled in the US.When people or politicians say refugees or immigrants are unwelcome in this country, I'll always stand up for them. I want to be a voice for other refugees like me who want to come to the US, to find a better life for their families.

Teetee

Old Firster since 1996, Lives in Rosharon, TX
Lionel Messi is proof of God's greatness. Ya, ok - my lovely wife and kids too. Umm, trees? yes, holy cow (oops!), and the whales. yes, all 'em creatures.

Bula

Old Firster since 2009, Lives in Old City
Cradle Catholic. My wife and I came to Old First with our then 1 yr old daughter. I am the director of a wonderful preschool in center city called Kids on 12th and love it! I also like to write, play guitar and am a movie buff.

Julius

Old Firster since 2006, Lives in Northern Liberties
I am a retired UCC minister, and I joined OFR because of their warm and relevant worship as well as the depth of compassion for the community and commitment to justice. And the people are fun!

Rochelle (Shelly)

Old Firster since 2022, Lives in Roxborough
It's a long time ago now, but I moved to Philadelphia with my young daughter to live, work, and enjoy the big city! I found my church home at Old First, attracted by our welcome to all and support for the stranger. As a retired social worker, I find meaning in helping others. I do my best to put my own faith into action through service and activism. I love my family, my church, dogs, sports, theatre, and eating out!

Kathy

Old Firster since 1983, Lives in Northeast Philadelphia
Hello, my name is Sunghye. I am a linguist, vegan, and animal rightist. I am a mother of two cats, Oliver and Leo!

Sunghye

Old Firster since 2012, Lives in Cincinnati, OH
I'm cradle UCC, but I thought confirmation was a vaccination. Immune to further exposure, I stayed away from church for 30 years. When I moved to Philly, I discovered Old First, though I wasn't especially looking for a church. Maybe I was looking for a community, and that's what I found. We don't ask you to stop thinking here. We value your questions and doubts. My faith has grown in this varied, talented, dedicated, hospitable, funny, caring--and occasionally exasperating--congregation.

Margaret

Old Firster since 1989, Lives in Germantown
We moved to Philly in 2024 to be closer to our two adult daughters. We have always been passionate about putting our faith into action through volunteering at various organizations that focus on food insecurity, clothing, affordable housing, social justice and LGBTQ+ programs. We were fortunate enough to find Old First UCC, where those with a strong faith and a servant heart can put God’s calling into action.

Todd and Lisa

Old Firsters since 2024, Live in Queen Village
I was born and baptized into the UCC, growing up in Lancaster County, PA. I joined Old First UCC in 1986 and love it! I am not there in person very often because my work as a physical therapist and teacher takes me around the world. I work with children and adults with neurological challenges such as cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, developmental delay, head injury, etc. I love to garden, swim, read, bike, and hike and love the quiet and solitude of the mountains.

Jane

Old Firster since 1986, Lives in Fairmount
Married with four adult kids, and value diversity of ALL kinds. Things I love, besides my wonderful inter-faith family: music -- especially piano and opera, the ocean, Monty Python, hot yoga, museums, my quirky and welcoming church community, and my town.

Kris

Old Firster since 2006, Lives in Collingswood, NJ
I grew up in a family of five. I've lived most of my life in the Fishtown and Kensington areas of Philly before my current residence in Turnersville, NJ. Singing is my passion. Family, friends and my dogs give me joy comfort and purpose in life. I love working around my home, and most days in the warm months I can be found lounging by the pool or pulling weeds in the garden.

Woody

Old Firster since 2007, Lives in Washington Square West
People are often surprised -- can't believe -- I am a minister. That's a compliment to me (it means I'm not SO stodgy!). Honored to be the pastor at Old First -- the third congregation I have served, but the first one where I can be most easily myself. Thanks for letting me be me, and your pastor.

Michael

Old Firster since 2009, Lives in Francisville
I garden, sing in the shower (occasionally) and have been UCC forever (except for a couple short departures!). Faith means a lot to me. It holds the world together and gives life purpose. It is a huge gift from God.

Bob

Old Firster since 1995, Lives in Newville, PA
My name is Justin and I’m an opera singer. Since my workplace is the entire globe, I’m able to live pretty much anywhere on the planet and recently the lord led my wife and I to Philadelphia. We have no family or work here, we just trusted the lord with this choice. When my wife, Amanda (who’s also a singer) found a community at Old First that she loved and also could lend her singing talent, I occasionally came along to support her. After experiencing Old First myself, it became evident that the spirit of God and love was truly in this place. I decided to make it my home as well and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

Justin

Old Firster since 2026, Lives in Point Breeze
"I have no family here in Philadelphia so if it wasn’t for this church I would be all alone. Since 2015 this place has been my church family. I’m very blessed."

Toni

Old Firster since 2015, Lives in Francisville
I like the phrase "cradle" Congregationalist to describe my faith journey. My father was a Congregational minister so being part of a church is my natural environment. My faith has grown and deepened with the years. Next to my love for my family is my love for Old First.

Margaret

Old Firster since 1996, Lives in Mt. Airy
I was born and raised a Catholic, but married into UCC. It has certainly been an adjustment, but a worthwhile one.

Jonathan

Old Firster since 2010, Lives in Francisville
Retired registered nurse, I enjoy visiting Old First shut in's and family/friends. Enjoy gardening but a little slow now (hard to get up once down). Love traveling, will go just about anywhere with or without a companion. Always open to changes.

Jacqulin

Old Firster since 1969, Lives in Claymont, DE
I am the third of six children and one of two girls. Old First's welcoming embrace keeps me in the fold and the fellowship sustains the renewing relationships. My journey of faith is nourished through the word of God. I believe God sees me beyond my current circumstances and the path to salvation comes only through Jesus. I enjoy coffee hours after worship; it gives time to say hello. It's a blessing to be where one finds meaning and looks forward to going again.

Ibidunmoye

Old Firster since 2000, Lives in Sicklerville, NJ
I moved to Philly for college in 2005 (go Owls!). Church didn't seem so important while in undergrad, but I wanted a church home after graduation and starting my first job in 2010. My home church in Massachusetts was also a UCC church, so Old First quickly felt like the right community to join. I’m passionate about higher education, championing women's rights, crossing the finish line in races, discovering delicious new places to eat, and traveling the world with my favorite person—my husband!

Beth

Old Firster Since 2010, Lives in Brewerytown
I love living and working in Philadelphia, and I love worshiping at Old First! I stay active by running, yoga-ing, and trapeze-ing.

Carrie

Old Firster since 2013, Lives in Temple, PA
I have spent my life living a faith/love of God that I have never fully understood and that is filled with as many questions as certainties. It is in the questions and uncertainties that my faith finds its energy and vitality.

Skip

Old Firster since 2013, Lives in W. Deptford, NJ
As Socialists who seek to connect our faith with our politics, We believe that churches should have a positive impact on the community. Old First’s commitment to service and justice drew us in. We both come from different church backgrounds, but Old First’s openness and hospitality has made us feel welcome and at home.

Jill and Josh

Old Firsters since 2025, Live in Point Breeze
Between managing a small independent pharmacy in Elkins Park and helping out with my grandkids, I stay pretty busy. My two cats keep me company when I'm home. Old First helps me keep things in proper perspective and stay sane.

Darla

Old Firster since 2012, Lives in Fishtown
I'm a "lapsed" Baptist, and eternally grateful to God & Old First pastor emerita Geneva Butz who led me to this, my chosen family and especially quixotic, unique congregation.

Rochelle

Old Firster since 1984, Lives in Wynnefield Heights
Old First is my neighborhood UCC church. I joined Old First because it is a congregation that believes in living out Christ's call to care for the least of these in a real way. I am uncomfortable calling myself a Christian because of the judgments that have been cast on others in that name. I am a follower of Jesus and find that the members of Old First are great companions on this journey. There is much to be learned and much to be shared in this community.

Beth

Old Firster Since 1994, Lives in Society Hill
Finder of faith, later in life. Lover of music, fan of church administrative tasks, and father of two. I love singing in the choir and playing tuba in the OFR Band.

Adam

Old Firster since 1994, Lives in Oaklyn, NJ
I grew up in the UCC because my father was a UCC pastor. I am a married mother of 2 teenage daughters and I work at Temple University as a nurse practitioner. I love music, sports, and animals.

Sarah

Old Firster since 1995, Lives in Oaklyn, NJ
A former Catholic, I never changed what I believed, but found in the UCC a church that allowed me the freedom to be me. I enjoy traveling anywhere, especially out of the way places. I am an avid knitter, gardener, and grandma. Being involved in politics of all sorts is a large part of my life.

Vicki

Old Firster since 2013, Lives in W. Deptford, NJ
Retired from the Free Library of Philadelphia. I am religious and I love to volunteer where I am needed. Mother of one son.

Barbara

Old Firster since 2014, Lives in Germantown
I'm a recent college graduate looking to advance out in the work world. Family is from Liberia in west Africa and came here to the United States in 1995 because of civil war in Liberia and we fell right at home here at Old First .

Dorothy

Old Firster Since 1997, Lives in Rosharon, TX
English teacher at Philly's agricultural high school (where I teach Shakespeare, start tomatoes in the greenhouse, bottle-feed lambs on the night shift, and cook meat raised lovingly by my students). I came to Old First as a long-term volunteer, was as music director for nearly two decades, almost gave birth to my daughter while tuning the piano, introduced my son to service in the shelter before he could walk, and currently serve as an elder.

Julie

Old Firster since 1986, Lives in Germantown
I have lived in and around Philadelphia for most of my life and I love showing our fair city to out-of-towners. My husband and I enjoy traveling, hiking, and spending time with our two teenagers (who mostly like spending time with us, too).

Suzanne

Old Firster since 2000, Lives in Society Hill