Groups & Ministries — First Congregational Church of Wilmette

Community Life

You don't have to find your way alone.

At FCCW, community isn't a program — it's what happens when people with different stories decide to show up for each other. Our groups and ministries are built around that simple idea: that life is better together.

Whether you're looking for deep conversation, creative expression, hands-on service, or just a warm room with good people — there's a group here that's been waiting for you.

"I walked in not knowing a soul. Within three months, these were my closest friends in Wilmette."

— Jennifer M., FCCW member since 2019

Music Ministry

Music is how we worship.

From our Chancel Choir to the handbell ensemble to our Summer Concert Series, music is woven into the life of FCCW. You don't need to be a professional — just a willing voice or pair of hands.

Chancel Choir

Our senior choir sings every Sunday during the school year and performs special concerts throughout the year. Rehearsals are Thursday evenings. All voice parts welcome.

Handbell Ensemble

A beloved tradition at FCCW, our handbell choir brings a unique and joyful sound to worship. No prior handbell experience required — just a love of rhythm and teamwork.

Summer Concert Series

A beloved North Shore tradition: free summer concerts in Fellowship Hall featuring local and regional musicians across jazz, folk, classical, and world music.

Hear Music in Worship

Youth & Family

Raising kids who ask big questions.

We believe the best thing we can do for the next generation is create space for them to wrestle with hard questions, practice compassion, and discover their own faith.

From cradle roll to college age, FCCW walks with families through every stage of the journey — with joy, honesty, and deep care.

See Youth Events

Sunday School

Engaging, age-appropriate faith formation for children from nursery through middle school — happening every Sunday during worship.

Confirmation

A multi-year journey for 8th and 9th graders to explore faith, ask hard questions, and decide for themselves what they believe.

Youth Group (9–12)

Tuesday night dinners, service projects, retreats, and the annual Edisto Island mission trip. A place to belong in high school.

Family Ministry

Picnics, family worship Sundays, and holiday celebrations create community across generations — children, parents, and empty-nesters together.

Adult Ministries

Grow wherever you are.

You don't have to have it figured out. Adult groups at FCCW are honest, open, and built for real life — not performance.

Bible Study

Weekly deep dives into scripture — contextual, questioning, and never preachy. Wednesday mornings and Tuesday evenings, open to all.

Book Group

Monthly discussions of books that sit at the intersection of faith, culture, and justice. Recent titles: Marilynne Robinson, James McBride, Rowan Williams.

Women's Fellowship

Monthly luncheons, retreat weekends, and service projects. A community of women supporting each other through every season of life.

Men's Fellowship

Early morning breakfasts, service days, and good conversation. A low-key, high-value gathering for men at any stage of faith.

Knitting & Needlepoint Circle

More than crafts — it's fellowship with purpose. Members create items for donation and gather weekly for community and conversation.

Spiritual Formation

Meditation, contemplative practice, labyrinth walks, and sound baths. Space to slow down and listen for what matters most.

Justice & Outreach Groups

Put faith into action.

FCCW has a century-long track record of showing up for justice. These groups are where that work gets done — week by week, neighbor by neighbor.

Interfaith Housing Coalition

We partner with Interfaith Action of Evanston to provide emergency shelter, transitional housing, and advocacy for families experiencing homelessness across the North Shore. Volunteer spots open monthly.

Connections for the Homeless

FCCW volunteers serve dinners and provide direct support to individuals experiencing homelessness in Evanston. Volunteer shifts run monthly — no experience necessary, just a willing heart.

Earth Care Committee

As an Earth Care Congregation, we work to reduce our environmental footprint, tend our community garden, and advocate for climate justice locally and globally.

Racial Justice Task Force

Education, advocacy, and action — this group leads our congregation through ongoing learning and engagement with racial equity. Book studies, speakers, and community partnerships.

All Outreach Programs

Join the Choir

Your voice is welcome here.

The Chancel Choir rehearses Thursday evenings from 7–9pm and sings every Sunday from September through May. New members join each fall, but we welcome drop-ins any time.

Our choir director, Mary Herbig, brings decades of experience and a deep love of choral music to every rehearsal. You don't need to audition — just show up.

Wilmette Community Nursery School

Little learners, big love.

WCNS has been an anchor of early childhood education on the North Shore for decades. Rooted in play-based learning and a deep respect for each child's development, our nursery school welcomes families of all backgrounds.

Open to all — church membership is not required. Half-day and full-day options available for ages 2–5.

Inquire About Enrollment