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

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 Northeast Philly
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 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 Mt. Airy
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 Turnersville, NJ
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
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 Old City
I grew up in a blended family.I’m very close to all of my siblings/cousins/ aunts/uncles. Family and close friends are everything to me. I love anything involving history, interior design, good food and--even better--cocktails. Old First is my first UCC "experience." As the Outreach Coordinator for the church, I’m enjoying getting to know more and more about the domination and incorporating the traditions/beliefs and openness into my Christian journey.

Alesha

Old Firster since 2016, Lives in West Mt Airy
A little twist of faith in my professional life has brought my spouse and me from New York to Philadelphia. I worked in information technology before and was considering a career change, leading to the move to Philadelphia. My spouse and I are both loving it here.

Ernest

Old Firster since 2016, Lives in Old City
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 Northeast Philly
I grew up in the UCC church, in my hometown that has more cows than people! I love the outdoors and being by the water. I'm all about rock concerts, yoga, and dogs!

Meg

Old Firster since 2016, Lives in Washington Square West
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 Northern Liberties
Although I live 45 minutes away from church in the First State (I work at the University of Delaware), the diverse, urban and forward-thinking atmosphere I found at Old First on a random visit caused me to stay. (Playing Stonewall Kickball on Sundays after service didn't hurt either!) In exchange, the church gained a vibrant, fun-loving and constantly-curious new member.

Christian

Old Firster since 2016, Lives in Newark/Bear, DE
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
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
I'm a mother, spouse, nurse, student and activist. I have had the privilege of traveling all over the world and now find myself in Philly where I enjoy gardening and climbing trees with my boys.

Samantha

Old Firster since 2016, Lives in Frankford
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 Society Hill
Mastery Charter educator. Proud Penn State alum. College football fan. Was so happy to find Old First and the wonders of UCC denomination shortly after moving to Philly. Love participating and serving in this inclusive community.

Yajeh

Old Firster since 2010, Lives in Washington West
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 Headhouse Square
I moved to Philly 9 years ago from Romania. My first Sunday at Old First I felt a connection. But I was living a double life. My church life was happy, full of hope and energy. My other life was often angry and depressed. Did believing in God make me suffer more? But through prayer, I began to feel energized, peaceful, powerful. Even if I cannot overcome my challenges sometimes, I believe in an infinite, eternal, almighty God, perfect in holiness, truth and love. God is Love.

Roxana

Old Firster since 2015, Lives in Northeast Philly
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 was born in the UCC in central Pennsylvania. My grandparents were both UCC ministers and my father is a UCC minister. I am a young man with ADHD and Asperger's Syndrome who moved to Philadelphia for graduate school to get my master's degree on the way to veterinary school.

Korbin

Old Firster since 2016, Lives in Center CIty
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 Chestnut Hill
Spring is my favorite season, I love the energy, the blooming, growing things, in spite of sneezing for months with seasonal allergies. I'm a happily married grandma and mother to 2 wonderful adults. I love to learn, to read, cook, quilt and make music. I enjoy movies and plays of all kinds so I usher at 2 theaters in Phila. and one movie theater.

Teresa

Old Firster since 2016, Lives in Wyncote, PA
Landing at Old First after being the Music Director at Tabernacle United Church for 25 years, was one of the most extraordinary gifts I have ever received. My entire life's work (& play!) has been centered on music, singing, & facilitating opportunities, either with individuals or groups, for ALL beings to find their own "voices" by diving deeply into the vast array of possibilities for finding singing as a means to expressing themselves.

Holly

Old Firster since 2016, Lives in Roxborough
Born and raised Roman Catholic and never knew what the UCC ministry was all about until my fiance, also a member of the church, took me to an Old First service one Sunday morning. The warm, welcoming feeling I got kept me coming back from that day on.

Stephen

Old Firster since 2015, Lives in Passyunk Square
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
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 Center City
Married with four kids (two teens, two tweens), 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 am a young, professional operatic soprano and I nanny for two families in Philadelphia. I am also the director of corporate sales and events for a local bakery.

Audra

Old Firster since 2016, Lives in East Falls
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 Bella Vista
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
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 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
I am a resident alien as well as a professional portrait photographer and photojournalist working with activists, artists and healers. I love exploring new-to-me spaces in Philadelphia, getting up early to watch sunrises, and taking the El. I am also a dad / husband and frustrated householder.

Chris

Old Firster since 2016, Lives in Frankford
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 Center City
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
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
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 live in Philadelphia with my partner, Mike. I have five nephews and three nieces over three states that I love to spend time with. I love college basketball, especially March Madness, cooking, long walks, reading and swimming.

Mimi

Old Firster since 2014, Lives in Mt. Airy
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 West Philly
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 Chicago (sometimes back in Philly!)
A resident of Philadelphia since 2009; I graduated from La Salle University with a BA in Religious Studies. I aspire to be a military chaplain, but for now I work Old First and at a nearby coffee shop. On Fridays, you can find me out in the city for fellowship. Join Us and Be Merry!

John

Old Firster since 2014, Lives in Old City
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
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 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 Upper Darby, PA
I grew up in a big family in rural North Carolina. I was raised in the Christian Church, one of the denominations that eventually formed the UCC. I love to play games and jigsaw puzzles and gather in small groups to "hang out." Family is very important to me.

Delilah

Old Firster since 2009, Lives in Sicklerville, NJ
I am a Massachusetts girl with an Alabama heart living in Philadelphia. I have lived in Philly since 2005 and started attending Old First in 2010. I am passionate about higher education, the advancement of womanhood, philanthropy, working out, food and your 2017 Super Bowl Champions - the New England Patriots.

Beth

Old Firster Since 2010, Lives in Fairmount