Our mission at First Church is to continue preaching the truth of God’s redemptive plan, instructing and encouraging His people to live lives in service to God and their fellow men.  We recognize that South Holland is a diverse community with people from many backgrounds.  We also know that God has called people from all races and nations.  

We welcome you to visit our church, and hope that you will find it a place of warm Christian love, but most importantly a place where God’s word and the Gospel of Christ are proclaimed and taught! There are also other opportunities for learning and fellowship listed below.

First Church has many ministries and programs designed to provide opportunities for encouragement, growth and spiritual enrichment. 

Men’s Society meets on the fourth Tuesday of every month. We are currently studying Herman Bavinck’s Wonderful Works of God

Young People's Group | Program for high school age students.

Calvinettes/Gems | Youth ministry for girls meets twice monthly at Oak Glen URC in Lansing, IL.

Catechism | A study of the Westminster Shorter Catechism for students ages 6th through 12th grade. Meets after the Sunday morning service from September through April.

Choir | Directed by William De Young, the Chancel Choir rehearses on Sunday afternoons from September through May and participates in numerous morning and evening worship services during that period.  

Ruth Society | Women's Bible Study which meets monthly.

Sunday School | Children’s church education meets following our morning worship during the academic year.

Embracing Our Call to Serve

At First Church of South Holland, we deeply understand and cherish our calling to serve the body of Christ. This service is not just a duty but a profound expression of our faith and love for Jesus Christ, who served us first and most supremely. In the Reformed tradition, we recognize that each member of our congregation is uniquely gifted and called to contribute to the health and growth of the Church, both locally and globally.

Biblical Foundations

The Apostle Paul, in his letters, frequently uses the metaphor of the body to describe the church. In 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, he teaches that just as a body is one unit made up of many parts, so it is with the body of Christ. Each member has a specific function, and all are necessary for the body to thrive. This imagery beautifully illustrates how our individual gifts and roles, when united in Christ, contribute to the well-being and effectiveness of the Church.

Our Diverse Roles

Serving the body of Christ means recognizing and valuing the diversity of gifts among us. Some are called to teach, others to encourage, some to administrate, and others to show hospitality (Romans 12:6-8). Our service is not limited to what happens within the walls of our church; it extends to our homes, workplaces, and communities. Whether through leading a small group, volunteering in community outreach, or simply offering a listening ear to a struggling neighbor, every act of service is significant in God's eyes.

Love in Action

Central to our Reformed faith is the understanding that our salvation is not based on works but on Christ's grace alone. However, this grace compels us to act - to love and serve others as Christ loved us (Ephesians 2:8-10). This love is active and tangible. It's seen in the way we care for one another, bear each other's burdens, and work together in harmony.

Getting Involved

We encourage every member of our congregation to actively seek and pray about how God is calling them to serve within the body of Christ. Whether you feel led to a visible role or a behind-the-scenes task, your service is invaluable. We also understand that discerning your role in the body can be a journey. Our team of elders are here to help guide and support you in discovering and using your God-given gifts and talents.

Conclusion

As we serve together, we not only strengthen our church community but also witness to the world the love and grace of Jesus Christ. In serving each other, we serve Christ Himself (Matthew 25:40). Let us move forward in unity and love, dedicated to building up the body of Christ in all that we do.