First Reformed United Church of Christ of Lancaster

Peacemakers in Time of War

frclivestreaming — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 13:54:54 +0000

Peacemakers in Time of War. Dr. Domi speaks out on current events. War is never distant even when it unfolds across oceans. Violence must never be the first language of resolution. Life must be safeguarded even in conflict. So how do we respond to the events unfolding in our world?

Watch the video here: https://vimeo.com/1170078386?fl=pl&fe=cm

The post Peacemakers in Time of War first appeared on First Reformed United Church of Christ of Lancaster.

Worship in Motion

frclivestreaming — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 12:41:42 +0000

First Reformed Church Pastor Dr. Dominique Denman recently served as Facilitator and Executive Director for the documentary Worship in Motion, sponsored by the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship. The film explores a central question facing many churches today: What is worship, and how can it become vital again in the 21st century for congregations experiencing decline?

Using film as a creative lens, the project examines how storytelling—both sacred and secular—often reflects themes that point toward the gospel message, including redemption, justice, reconciliation, and hope. The documentary invites viewers to consider how the church might rediscover vibrant expressions of worship in today’s cultural landscape.

The film can be viewed at the link below:

Watch the documentary here:

https://vimeo.com/inclusivenetworktv/worshipinmotion2026?share=copy

The post Worship in Motion first appeared on First Reformed United Church of Christ of Lancaster.

The Sound of Many Waters

frclivestreaming — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 17:50:04 +0000

Dear FRC Family,

You know, there’s something about the sound of our pipe organ that makes heaven lean in. Its majesty fills the sanctuary and reminds us of the sacred legacy we’ve inherited — one we deeply treasure. I’ve also heard the holy rumblings about the recent investment in the organ’s restoration and the longing to hear it singing from the prelude to the postlude without a single break. And truly, I get it. When something so beautiful has been both costly and carefully restored, we want to enjoy it fully — as we should.

But let’s remember: the organ’s purpose, like every instrument in worship, is to serve the Spirit, not to center the service. Worship is not an exhibit; it’s a living, breathing encounter with God. And our music, like our congregation, must reflect that life — diverse, evolving, and beautifully intertwined.

So no, we’re not putting the organ on the back shelf or replacing it with a keyboard and a tambourine (though if the Spirit moves, a tambourine might make an appearance). We’re simply widening the musical palette — adding gospel, contemporary, and global expressions of faith that meet everyone where they are. The pipe organ will remain a cornerstone of our sound, but now it will converse with new voices rather than compete with them.

This is not a departure; it’s a deepening. The same God who breathes through those organ pipes also grooves through gospel chords and stirs hearts through contemporary praise. Together, they form the sound of many waters — one Spirit, many streams.

So, dear FRC, take heart: your beloved organ is not being replaced. It’s being joined by siblings in song. And together, we will continue to make a joyful noise that reflects the fullness of God’s kingdom.

With love, laughter, and a deep appreciation for every note we make together,

Dr. Dominique P. Denman

Designated Pastor, and Fellow Lover of the Great Organ (and a good gospel, jazz, classical, country, R&B and more groove)

The post The Sound of Many Waters first appeared on First Reformed United Church of Christ of Lancaster.

Looking Forward

frclivestreaming — Sat, 06 Sep 2025 13:17:36 +0000

Dear Beloved Community of First Reformed UCC,

Grace and peace to you in the name of the One who makes all things new!

It is with deep joy and holy excitement that I write to you as your designated pastor. What and incredible blessing it is to be called into this next chapter of ministry with you here in the heart of downtown Lancaster. Together, I believe we are poised for a season of Spirit-led growth, vibrant outreach, and bold visioning for what God is calling us to be in this time and place.

When I look at First Reformed, I don’t just see a church building on Orange Street — I see a beacon of light and hope. I see a community with the heart, history, and courage to embrace a future that serves both our congregation and the city around us. My prayer is that our ministry will stretch beyond Sunday mornings to include spaces of creativity, healing, and transformation. Imagine with me:

Youth and after-school programs that nurture, guide, and empower young people in Lancaster.
Theatrical arts and music that bring joy, storytelling, and spiritual expression to our city.
Spaces of healing and reconciliation where all people — regardless of who they are or where they are on life’s journey — can experience God’s unconditional love.
A renewed vision for outreach, meeting neighbors where they are and extending Christ’s welcome in fresh and courageous ways.

Friends, I believe the best days of First Reformed are not behind us, but ahead of us. Together, we will listen for God’s voice, honor the gifts already present in this community, and dream big about the possibilities that await. I come with an open heart, eager to walk alongside you, to learn your stories, and to help build bridges between the church and the city we are called to serve.

Let us step into this new season with courage, hope, and expectancy. God is doing a new thing in our midst — can you feel it?

With excitement for what is come,

In Christ’s love,

Dr. Domi

The Rev. Dr. Dominique Denman,

First Reformed UCC, Lancaster, PA

The post Looking Forward first appeared on First Reformed United Church of Christ of Lancaster.