First Covenant Church Oakland

First Covenant Church is the first REAL church that I went to. What do I mean by REAL church? Where Jesus Christ is pronounced as savior, lord, king. I started to go to this church when I was in high school. This church had a super solid high school ministry that was totally thriving when I was there, I won’t comment on how it is currently because I don’t attend church, I’m going to church in WC.
The high school group at this church really got me pointed in the right direction spiritually. The high school group was really what I’d say a spiritual compass for me. I have gone back every know and then. Somewhat ironic that First Covenant church started Hillside in WC, which in turn started The Creek in W.C., I attended The Creek for a number of years. FCC will always be my home church. A little bit of fun trivia, Tom Hanks went to church here, YES, that Tom Hanks.
I don’t know how things are going here currently here, I’m commenting on the time when I was there. This is a beautiful, old, well maintained church that has some gorgeous stain glass windows.

First Covenant Church has been home to me for most of my life. What keeps me there is the strong sense of community and biblical teaching. The pastoral staff encourages us to be real and honest with each other about our issues, struggles and pain. Instead of pretending everything is okay and trying to be perfect.
There are three services and each are a little different. I attend the third service (11am) which is more casual, intimate and has a community service component that I love. There is also time for discussion, interaction and questions for the pastor which is great. It give us a chance to participate in the worship experience and not just be a consumer.
Give it a chance! If community and relevant biblical teaching is something you are looking for, I suggest you try FCC.

I’m giving this church 4 stars not 5 because there is no church that is a perfect 5! But this one comes close. This review is for the Third Service. They aren’t about people coming to watch a performance of church monkeys. They are about people finding community and purpose. The Third Service keeps it pretty real by incorporating group discussions that aren’t too invasive… and they let you walk around to visit the food table or participate in response times. Fun. They have the cozy candle/​couch thing going on. The third service is still working out a few start-​up glitches apparently, so give them a break if you visit. More young married couples, some with kids. a few empty nesters… some college kids… Oh yeah, and Safeway is right next door so if you want to pick up milk or bread for the house after church, it’s awesomely easy.

I like the 11am worship gathering. It is causal… worship is «café style». They feature Peets coffee and gourmet pastry! It is not the typical church yet the worship draws you into the presence of God. People were very multi-​ethnic; the people I met were friendly and open.

Great kids programs
Pastoral staff who care about you
Warm, welcoming people
Diverse ethnically and in ages
A church with deep roots yet doesn’t feel stuffy

This is a great church. Very warm and friendly. It started as a swedish church but has become very multicultural in the last five years. On staff they have caucasian, hispanic, african-​american and asian pastors.
if you attend a Sunday service (9:00, 10:30 and 11 am) make sure you meet Paul Wilson, the senior pastor. He’s a great conversationalist and will introduce you to other church members.