Upcoming events

SEE OUR FULL BUSINESS CALENDAR
Recovery Meetings Schedule

Our church gatherings are on Sundays at 10:00am.

Storage Audit
Nov
1

Storage Audit

Join us on Saturday, November 1st at 9:00 a.m. for a church-wide Storage Audit! This is a hands-on opportunity for leadership and anyone involved in ministries that use storage—Children’s Ministry, Youth Ministry, Care Ministries, Music & Sacred Arts, Christian Education & Spiritual Formation, Boy Scouts, Diaconate, and more—to come together, go through our storage areas, and make them more organized and functional.

We’ll work as a team to sort, purge, and reimagine our spaces, making it easier for everyone to find what they need and ensure our resources are being used well. Bring your energy, ideas, and maybe a pair of gloves—let’s refresh our storage spaces together!

View Event →
Open Door Meal
Nov
3

Open Door Meal

Monday Night Open Door Meal – All Are Welcome!

Join us every Monday (except the 2nd Monday of the month) at 7:00 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall for our Open Door Meal—a free, warm meal for anyone who could use one. Whether you’re in need of a meal yourself or know someone who might benefit, we invite you to come, eat, and share in a time of community and care. No reservations, no requirements—just a good meal and a welcoming space.

Spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

View Event →
Bingo Fundraiser
Nov
9

Bingo Fundraiser

Bingo Fundraiser at First Congregational Church of Ramona
Date: Friday, November 9, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM
Location: First Congregational Church of Ramona

Join us for an afternoon of fun, laughter, and community as we host our Bingo Fundraiser! Bring your friends, family, and lucky charms for exciting rounds of bingo with fantastic prizes to be won. This is a great way to enjoy a lively event while supporting the ministries and programs of First Congregational Church of Ramona.

https://www.facebook.com/events/1514805696198341/

View Event →
Free Farmer's Market
Nov
14

Free Farmer's Market

Mark your calendars for the second Friday of every month and join us for our Free Farmers' Market! We partner with Feeding San Diego to provide fresh produce and good food to our community—absolutely free.

Food Distribution:

  • When: Second Friday of every month

  • Time: Distribution begins at 12:30 PM

Volunteer Opportunities: We need dedicated volunteers to help make this event a success! You can assist with setup and distribution during the following shifts:

  • Morning Shift: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

  • Afternoon Shift: 12:15 PM - 2:00 PM

Everyone is welcome to come and receive nutritious food and fresh produce. Help us share the bounty and support our neighbors in need! If you're interested in volunteering or have any questions, please contact the church office.

Together, let's make a difference in our community!

View Event →
Life Together Discussion
Nov
16

Life Together Discussion

The Church Council invites you to join us in reading and discussing Life Together by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. This spiritual classic explores what it means to live in Christian community, drawing from Bonhoeffer’s own experience leading an underground seminary during Nazi rule. His reflections on fellowship, prayer, ministry, and confession remain deeply relevant today.

We’ll take our time with the book, meeting once every several weeks to allow space for reflection and practice. Each gathering will focus on a different section:

📖 May 25Community (pages 7–39)
📖 July 6The Day with Others (pages 40–75)
📖 September 7 The Day Alone (pages 76–89)
📖 October 5Ministry (pages 90–109)
📖 November 2Confession and Communion (pages 110–122)

We ask for a $15 donation per participant to cover the cost of the book. Please RSVP so we know how many copies to order.

Come journey with us as we reflect on what it means to share life together in faith!

View Event →
Open Door Meal
Nov
17

Open Door Meal

Monday Night Open Door Meal – All Are Welcome!

Join us every Monday (except the 2nd Monday of the month) at 7:00 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall for our Open Door Meal—a free, warm meal for anyone who could use one. Whether you’re in need of a meal yourself or know someone who might benefit, we invite you to come, eat, and share in a time of community and care. No reservations, no requirements—just a good meal and a welcoming space.

Spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

View Event →
Open Door Meal
Nov
24

Open Door Meal

Monday Night Open Door Meal – All Are Welcome!

Join us every Monday (except the 2nd Monday of the month) at 7:00 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall for our Open Door Meal—a free, warm meal for anyone who could use one. Whether you’re in need of a meal yourself or know someone who might benefit, we invite you to come, eat, and share in a time of community and care. No reservations, no requirements—just a good meal and a welcoming space.

Spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

View Event →
Advent Bible Study: From Promise to Presence
Dec
3

Advent Bible Study: From Promise to Presence

Every Advent, we hear familiar Scriptures from the prophets: “The virgin will conceive…”, “Unto us a child is born…”, “But you, Bethlehem…”. We are told these prophecies predicted the birth of Jesus long before it happened. But what if the original audiences heard them differently? What if these words had a meaning and fulfillment in their own time?

“From Promise to Presence: Advent Prophecy Revisited” will invite us to step into the world of Israel’s prophets, to hear these texts as their first hearers would have heard them—and then to notice how the Gospel writers, looking back through the lens of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, re-read these same texts with fresh eyes. Far from weakening their power, this deeper understanding shows us how God’s promises keep unfolding in surprising, faithful ways. Together, we’ll discover why prophecy is not about fortune-telling but about God’s ongoing presence and hope for the world.

Week 1 — “What Child is This?”

  • Isaiah 7:14 — “The virgin will conceive…”

    • Context: King Ahaz seeking reassurance.

    • NT: Matthew 1 and the birth of Immanuel.

  • Micah 5:2 — “But you, Bethlehem…”

    • Context: Hope for a ruler from David’s line in a time of instability.

    • NT: Jesus’ birthplace and God’s surprising way of raising up a king.

Discussion: Why might God choose such ordinary or unexpected signs (a child, a village) to embody hope?

Week 2 — “Glory to The Newborn King?” 

  • Isaiah 9:6–7 — “Unto us a child is born…”

    • Context: A coronation hymn for a Davidic king, titles of divine blessing

    • NT: Jesus as the Prince of Peace, fulfilling Israel’s deepest hopes.

  • Jeremiah 23:5–6 — “The Righteous Branch…”

    • Context: A promise of a faithful ruler after corruption and exile.

    • NT: Jesus as the true Shepherd-King who brings justice and peace.

Discussion: How do we hold together the longing for a political/earthly king and the deeper fulfillment in Christ?

Week 3 — “Ransom Captive Israel”

  • Hosea 11:1 — “Out of Egypt I called my son.”

    • Context: Israel’s Exodus story remembered.

    • NT: Matthew re-applies it to Jesus’ return from Egypt

Discussion: How does seeing Jesus as the embodiment of Israel deepen our sense of Advent hope?

  • Reframing Prophecy

    • Naming the tension: These prophecies weren’t originally “predictions” of Jesus in a straightforward sense.

    • The bigger vision: Prophecy is about God’s faithfulness—God was present then, and God is present now.

    • Encouragement for Advent:

      • Scripture is layered and alive—God’s Word meets people in new ways in every generation.

      • The Gospel writers teach us to read our lives the same way: to look back and say, “Even here, God was with me.”

      • Advent is about recognizing God’s surprising fulfillment of promises, not just in Bethlehem long ago, but in our world and our lives today.

Closing Question: How does this way of seeing prophecy shape the way you wait for God this Advent?

Rather than leaving with disillusionment (“those weren’t really about Jesus?”), participants will leave with a richer sense of wonder: God’s promises are not thin predictions but deep patterns of faithfulness that take on fuller and fuller meaning across time. The same God who gave hope to Israel and fulfillment in Christ continues to speak hope into our lives.


View Event →
Advent Bible Study: From Promise to Presence
Dec
10

Advent Bible Study: From Promise to Presence

Every Advent, we hear familiar Scriptures from the prophets: “The virgin will conceive…”, “Unto us a child is born…”, “But you, Bethlehem…”. We are told these prophecies predicted the birth of Jesus long before it happened. But what if the original audiences heard them differently? What if these words had a meaning and fulfillment in their own time?

“From Promise to Presence: Advent Prophecy Revisited” will invite us to step into the world of Israel’s prophets, to hear these texts as their first hearers would have heard them—and then to notice how the Gospel writers, looking back through the lens of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, re-read these same texts with fresh eyes. Far from weakening their power, this deeper understanding shows us how God’s promises keep unfolding in surprising, faithful ways. Together, we’ll discover why prophecy is not about fortune-telling but about God’s ongoing presence and hope for the world.

Week 1 — “What Child is This?”

  • Isaiah 7:14 — “The virgin will conceive…”

    • Context: King Ahaz seeking reassurance.

    • NT: Matthew 1 and the birth of Immanuel.

  • Micah 5:2 — “But you, Bethlehem…”

    • Context: Hope for a ruler from David’s line in a time of instability.

    • NT: Jesus’ birthplace and God’s surprising way of raising up a king.

Discussion: Why might God choose such ordinary or unexpected signs (a child, a village) to embody hope?

Week 2 — “Glory to The Newborn King?” 

  • Isaiah 9:6–7 — “Unto us a child is born…”

    • Context: A coronation hymn for a Davidic king, titles of divine blessing

    • NT: Jesus as the Prince of Peace, fulfilling Israel’s deepest hopes.

  • Jeremiah 23:5–6 — “The Righteous Branch…”

    • Context: A promise of a faithful ruler after corruption and exile.

    • NT: Jesus as the true Shepherd-King who brings justice and peace.

Discussion: How do we hold together the longing for a political/earthly king and the deeper fulfillment in Christ?

Week 3 — “Ransom Captive Israel”

  • Hosea 11:1 — “Out of Egypt I called my son.”

    • Context: Israel’s Exodus story remembered.

    • NT: Matthew re-applies it to Jesus’ return from Egypt

Discussion: How does seeing Jesus as the embodiment of Israel deepen our sense of Advent hope?

  • Reframing Prophecy

    • Naming the tension: These prophecies weren’t originally “predictions” of Jesus in a straightforward sense.

    • The bigger vision: Prophecy is about God’s faithfulness—God was present then, and God is present now.

    • Encouragement for Advent:

      • Scripture is layered and alive—God’s Word meets people in new ways in every generation.

      • The Gospel writers teach us to read our lives the same way: to look back and say, “Even here, God was with me.”

      • Advent is about recognizing God’s surprising fulfillment of promises, not just in Bethlehem long ago, but in our world and our lives today.

Closing Question: How does this way of seeing prophecy shape the way you wait for God this Advent?

Rather than leaving with disillusionment (“those weren’t really about Jesus?”), participants will leave with a richer sense of wonder: God’s promises are not thin predictions but deep patterns of faithfulness that take on fuller and fuller meaning across time. The same God who gave hope to Israel and fulfillment in Christ continues to speak hope into our lives.


View Event →
Free Farmer's Market
Dec
12

Free Farmer's Market

Mark your calendars for the second Friday of every month and join us for our Free Farmers' Market! We partner with Feeding San Diego to provide fresh produce and good food to our community—absolutely free.

Food Distribution:

  • When: Second Friday of every month

  • Time: Distribution begins at 12:30 PM

Volunteer Opportunities: We need dedicated volunteers to help make this event a success! You can assist with setup and distribution during the following shifts:

  • Morning Shift: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

  • Afternoon Shift: 12:15 PM - 2:00 PM

Everyone is welcome to come and receive nutritious food and fresh produce. Help us share the bounty and support our neighbors in need! If you're interested in volunteering or have any questions, please contact the church office.

Together, let's make a difference in our community!

View Event →
Advent Workshop & Potluck
Dec
14

Advent Workshop & Potluck

Join us for a joyful evening to kick off the Advent season together! We’ll gather in Pilgrim Hall at 4:30 p.m. for a potluck meal (an early dinner), then head to the Sanctuary to lift our voices in Christmas Carols. After singing, we’ll return to Pilgrim Hall for family-friendly Advent crafts—a wonderful way to celebrate the season, prepare our hearts, and create memories together. Bring a dish to share and your holiday spirit!

https://www.facebook.com/events/1212858150884365/

View Event →
Advent Bible Study: From Promise to Presence
Dec
17

Advent Bible Study: From Promise to Presence

Every Advent, we hear familiar Scriptures from the prophets: “The virgin will conceive…”, “Unto us a child is born…”, “But you, Bethlehem…”. We are told these prophecies predicted the birth of Jesus long before it happened. But what if the original audiences heard them differently? What if these words had a meaning and fulfillment in their own time?

“From Promise to Presence: Advent Prophecy Revisited” will invite us to step into the world of Israel’s prophets, to hear these texts as their first hearers would have heard them—and then to notice how the Gospel writers, looking back through the lens of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, re-read these same texts with fresh eyes. Far from weakening their power, this deeper understanding shows us how God’s promises keep unfolding in surprising, faithful ways. Together, we’ll discover why prophecy is not about fortune-telling but about God’s ongoing presence and hope for the world.

Week 1 — “What Child is This?”

  • Isaiah 7:14 — “The virgin will conceive…”

    • Context: King Ahaz seeking reassurance.

    • NT: Matthew 1 and the birth of Immanuel.

  • Micah 5:2 — “But you, Bethlehem…”

    • Context: Hope for a ruler from David’s line in a time of instability.

    • NT: Jesus’ birthplace and God’s surprising way of raising up a king.

Discussion: Why might God choose such ordinary or unexpected signs (a child, a village) to embody hope?

Week 2 — “Glory to The Newborn King?” 

  • Isaiah 9:6–7 — “Unto us a child is born…”

    • Context: A coronation hymn for a Davidic king, titles of divine blessing

    • NT: Jesus as the Prince of Peace, fulfilling Israel’s deepest hopes.

  • Jeremiah 23:5–6 — “The Righteous Branch…”

    • Context: A promise of a faithful ruler after corruption and exile.

    • NT: Jesus as the true Shepherd-King who brings justice and peace.

Discussion: How do we hold together the longing for a political/earthly king and the deeper fulfillment in Christ?

Week 3 — “Ransom Captive Israel”

  • Hosea 11:1 — “Out of Egypt I called my son.”

    • Context: Israel’s Exodus story remembered.

    • NT: Matthew re-applies it to Jesus’ return from Egypt

Discussion: How does seeing Jesus as the embodiment of Israel deepen our sense of Advent hope?

  • Reframing Prophecy

    • Naming the tension: These prophecies weren’t originally “predictions” of Jesus in a straightforward sense.

    • The bigger vision: Prophecy is about God’s faithfulness—God was present then, and God is present now.

    • Encouragement for Advent:

      • Scripture is layered and alive—God’s Word meets people in new ways in every generation.

      • The Gospel writers teach us to read our lives the same way: to look back and say, “Even here, God was with me.”

      • Advent is about recognizing God’s surprising fulfillment of promises, not just in Bethlehem long ago, but in our world and our lives today.

Closing Question: How does this way of seeing prophecy shape the way you wait for God this Advent?

Rather than leaving with disillusionment (“those weren’t really about Jesus?”), participants will leave with a richer sense of wonder: God’s promises are not thin predictions but deep patterns of faithfulness that take on fuller and fuller meaning across time. The same God who gave hope to Israel and fulfillment in Christ continues to speak hope into our lives.


View Event →

Open Door Meal
Oct
27

Open Door Meal

Monday Night Open Door Meal – All Are Welcome!

Join us every Monday (except the 2nd Monday of the month) at 7:00 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall for our Open Door Meal—a free, warm meal for anyone who could use one. Whether you’re in need of a meal yourself or know someone who might benefit, we invite you to come, eat, and share in a time of community and care. No reservations, no requirements—just a good meal and a welcoming space.

Spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

View Event →
Revelation Bible Study: The Lion is the Lamb
Oct
22

Revelation Bible Study: The Lion is the Lamb

  • St. Mary's In The Valley Episcopal Church (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Lion is the Lamb

A Study of the Book of Revelation

The Book of Revelation is one of the most misunderstood books in the Bible. Too often it’s treated like a code to be cracked or a roadmap of the end times. But at its heart, Revelation is resistance literature saturated in what we might now call liberation theology. It was written to and from marginalized communities living under the shadow of Roman oppression. It’s not about predicting the future so much as giving courage in the present.

In this four-week study, we’ll approach Revelation as a word of hope for communities under pressure. The book calls its readers to “endure” in the face of empire, showing that true victory comes not through force but through faithful witness, even when it leads to suffering. At the center is the great paradox of Christian faith: the Lion who conquers is revealed as a slain Lamb, whose self-giving love unmasks the powers of violence and redefines what it means to overcome.

Together, we’ll explore Revelation’s reversal of power, its call to resistance, and its vision of a new creation where God dwells with humanity and the nations are healed. Join us as we discover how this strange and beautiful book still speaks a word of courage, endurance, and hope today.

Week 1 — Endurance (Rev. 1–3)

  • Focus: Context of Domitian’s rule; apocalyptic literature as resistance literature and liberation theology.

  • Theologian Spotlight: Gustavo Gutierrez

  • Key Texts: Revelation 1 (vision of Christ), Revelation 2–3 (letters to the seven churches).

  • Themes: “Remain faithful,” “endure,” “to the one who conquers…”

  • Interpretive Move: Martyrdom = endurance = victory.

  • Takeaway Question: What does endurance look like for communities under pressure today? What is liberation theology? 

Week 2 — The Slain Lamb (Rev. 4–7)

  • Focus: Throne room vision (Rev. 4–5), the scroll, the slain Lamb revealed as the true conqueror.

  • Theologian Spotlight: Elsa Tamez

  • Key Texts: Revelation 5 (lion/lamb paradox), Revelation 6–7 (seals and the washing of robes).

  • Themes: Irony of apocalyptic dualism — the apparent winners (Rome) are losers, and the slain are victorious.

  • Interpretive Move: Victory does not come through killing but through suffering love and fidelity to Christ.

  • Takeaway Question: How might the Lamb’s way of power reshape our understanding of resistance? 

Week 3 — The Beasts and Babylon: Unmasking Empire (Rev. 12–18)

  • Focus: Dragon, beasts, and the whore of Babylon as images of Roman power.

  • Theologian Spotlight: James Cone 

  • Key Texts: Revelation 13 (the beast and the false prophet), Revelation 17–18 (Babylon’s downfall).

  • Themes: The Emperor (first beast), Roman propaganda/imperial cult (second beast), economic exploitation (Babylon).

  • Interpretive Move: To “endure” is to resist and to “come out of her” — disengaging from systems of idolatry, violence, and greed.

  • Takeaway Question: What does it mean to resist the beasts of our own time? What systems of oppression do we need to “come out of”? 

Week 4 — Victory of the Lamb: Healing of the Nations (Rev. 19–22)

  • Focus: Final victory of the Lamb, the New Jerusalem, God’s dwelling with humanity.

  • Theologian Spotlight: Jurgen Moltmann

  • Key Texts: Revelation 19:11–16 (the rider on the white horse), Revelation 21–22 (new creation, healing of the nations).

  • Themes: God’s victory is restorative, not destructive — the nations are healed, the curse is lifted.

  • Interpretive Move: The apocalypse ends not in escape but in God’s descent, dwelling with humanity.

  • Takeaway Question: How do we live today as citizens of the New Jerusalem, resisting evil while anticipating healing?

View Event →
Open Door Meal
Oct
20

Open Door Meal

Monday Night Open Door Meal – All Are Welcome!

Join us every Monday (except the 2nd Monday of the month) at 7:00 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall for our Open Door Meal—a free, warm meal for anyone who could use one. Whether you’re in need of a meal yourself or know someone who might benefit, we invite you to come, eat, and share in a time of community and care. No reservations, no requirements—just a good meal and a welcoming space.

Spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

View Event →
Revelation Bible Study: The Lion is the Lamb
Oct
15

Revelation Bible Study: The Lion is the Lamb

The Lion is the Lamb

A Study of the Book of Revelation

The Book of Revelation is one of the most misunderstood books in the Bible. Too often it’s treated like a code to be cracked or a roadmap of the end times. But at its heart, Revelation is resistance literature saturated in what we might now call liberation theology. It was written to and from marginalized communities living under the shadow of Roman oppression. It’s not about predicting the future so much as giving courage in the present.

In this four-week study, we’ll approach Revelation as a word of hope for communities under pressure. The book calls its readers to “endure” in the face of empire, showing that true victory comes not through force but through faithful witness, even when it leads to suffering. At the center is the great paradox of Christian faith: the Lion who conquers is revealed as a slain Lamb, whose self-giving love unmasks the powers of violence and redefines what it means to overcome.

Together, we’ll explore Revelation’s reversal of power, its call to resistance, and its vision of a new creation where God dwells with humanity and the nations are healed. Join us as we discover how this strange and beautiful book still speaks a word of courage, endurance, and hope today.

Week 1 — Endurance (Rev. 1–3)

  • Focus: Context of Domitian’s rule; apocalyptic literature as resistance literature and liberation theology.

  • Theologian Spotlight: Gustavo Gutierrez

  • Key Texts: Revelation 1 (vision of Christ), Revelation 2–3 (letters to the seven churches).

  • Themes: “Remain faithful,” “endure,” “to the one who conquers…”

  • Interpretive Move: Martyrdom = endurance = victory.

  • Takeaway Question: What does endurance look like for communities under pressure today? What is liberation theology? 

Week 2 — The Slain Lamb (Rev. 4–7)

  • Focus: Throne room vision (Rev. 4–5), the scroll, the slain Lamb revealed as the true conqueror.

  • Theologian Spotlight: Elsa Tamez

  • Key Texts: Revelation 5 (lion/lamb paradox), Revelation 6–7 (seals and the washing of robes).

  • Themes: Irony of apocalyptic dualism — the apparent winners (Rome) are losers, and the slain are victorious.

  • Interpretive Move: Victory does not come through killing but through suffering love and fidelity to Christ.

  • Takeaway Question: How might the Lamb’s way of power reshape our understanding of resistance? 

Week 3 — The Beasts and Babylon: Unmasking Empire (Rev. 12–18)

  • Focus: Dragon, beasts, and the whore of Babylon as images of Roman power.

  • Theologian Spotlight: James Cone 

  • Key Texts: Revelation 13 (the beast and the false prophet), Revelation 17–18 (Babylon’s downfall).

  • Themes: The Emperor (first beast), Roman propaganda/imperial cult (second beast), economic exploitation (Babylon).

  • Interpretive Move: To “endure” is to resist and to “come out of her” — disengaging from systems of idolatry, violence, and greed.

  • Takeaway Question: What does it mean to resist the beasts of our own time? What systems of oppression do we need to “come out of”? 

Week 4 — Victory of the Lamb: Healing of the Nations (Rev. 19–22)

  • Focus: Final victory of the Lamb, the New Jerusalem, God’s dwelling with humanity.

  • Theologian Spotlight: Jurgen Moltmann

  • Key Texts: Revelation 19:11–16 (the rider on the white horse), Revelation 21–22 (new creation, healing of the nations).

  • Themes: God’s victory is restorative, not destructive — the nations are healed, the curse is lifted.

  • Interpretive Move: The apocalypse ends not in escape but in God’s descent, dwelling with humanity.

  • Takeaway Question: How do we live today as citizens of the New Jerusalem, resisting evil while anticipating healing?

View Event →
New Members Class
Oct
12

New Members Class

New Members Class – Sunday, October 12 at 11:15 a.m.
Right after our 10:00 a.m. worship gathering, join us for a special New Members Class. Together, we’ll explore what it means to be part of a church family—learning about where we’ve been, where we are now, and where God is leading us. This class is a chance to ask questions, hear our story, and discover how you can connect more deeply with the life of First Congregational Church of Ramona.

If, after the class, you feel ready, you’ll also have the opportunity to officially become a member of FCC Ramona—a way of publicly saying, “This is my church family.”

View Event →
Harvest Fair (Pilgrim Hall)
Oct
11

Harvest Fair (Pilgrim Hall)

🍂 Join Us for the First Congregational Church of Ramona's Harvest Fair! 🍁

Celebrate the season of abundance with us at our Harvest Fair! We're welcoming the entire community for a day of fall festivities, delicious homemade treats, and local shopping.

Date: Saturday, October 11th
Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: First Congregational Church of Ramona, 404 Eighth St.

What to Expect:

  • Local Vendors: Browse unique crafts, gifts, and goodies from local artisans.

  • Homemade Soups & Pies: Warm up with a bowl of delicious soup and savor a slice of our famous homemade pies.

  • Family Fun: Enjoy activities for all ages, including games, face painting, and more.

Bring your friends and family to experience the warmth and joy of the harvest season. Whether you're looking to shop, eat, or simply enjoy the autumn atmosphere, there's something for everyone!

Don't miss out on this special community event—we can't wait to celebrate with you!

All are welcome! For more information, call 760-789-3348.

View Event →
Free Farmer's Market
Oct
10

Free Farmer's Market

Mark your calendars for the second Friday of every month and join us for our Free Farmers' Market! We partner with Feeding San Diego to provide fresh produce and good food to our community—absolutely free.

Food Distribution:

  • When: Second Friday of every month

  • Time: Distribution begins at 12:30 PM

Volunteer Opportunities: We need dedicated volunteers to help make this event a success! You can assist with setup and distribution during the following shifts:

  • Morning Shift: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

  • Afternoon Shift: 12:15 PM - 2:00 PM

Everyone is welcome to come and receive nutritious food and fresh produce. Help us share the bounty and support our neighbors in need! If you're interested in volunteering or have any questions, please contact the church office.

Together, let's make a difference in our community!

View Event →
Revelation Bible Study: The Lion is the Lamb
Oct
8

Revelation Bible Study: The Lion is the Lamb

  • St Mary's in the Valley Episcopal Church (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Lion is the Lamb

A Study of the Book of Revelation

The Book of Revelation is one of the most misunderstood books in the Bible. Too often it’s treated like a code to be cracked or a roadmap of the end times. But at its heart, Revelation is resistance literature saturated in what we might now call liberation theology. It was written to and from marginalized communities living under the shadow of Roman oppression. It’s not about predicting the future so much as giving courage in the present.

In this four-week study, we’ll approach Revelation as a word of hope for communities under pressure. The book calls its readers to “endure” in the face of empire, showing that true victory comes not through force but through faithful witness, even when it leads to suffering. At the center is the great paradox of Christian faith: the Lion who conquers is revealed as a slain Lamb, whose self-giving love unmasks the powers of violence and redefines what it means to overcome.

Together, we’ll explore Revelation’s reversal of power, its call to resistance, and its vision of a new creation where God dwells with humanity and the nations are healed. Join us as we discover how this strange and beautiful book still speaks a word of courage, endurance, and hope today.

Week 1 — Endurance (Rev. 1–3)

  • Focus: Context of Domitian’s rule; apocalyptic literature as resistance literature and liberation theology.

  • Theologian Spotlight: Gustavo Gutierrez

  • Key Texts: Revelation 1 (vision of Christ), Revelation 2–3 (letters to the seven churches).

  • Themes: “Remain faithful,” “endure,” “to the one who conquers…”

  • Interpretive Move: Martyrdom = endurance = victory.

  • Takeaway Question: What does endurance look like for communities under pressure today? What is liberation theology? 

Week 2 — The Slain Lamb (Rev. 4–7)

  • Focus: Throne room vision (Rev. 4–5), the scroll, the slain Lamb revealed as the true conqueror.

  • Theologian Spotlight: Elsa Tamez

  • Key Texts: Revelation 5 (lion/lamb paradox), Revelation 6–7 (seals and the washing of robes).

  • Themes: Irony of apocalyptic dualism — the apparent winners (Rome) are losers, and the slain are victorious.

  • Interpretive Move: Victory does not come through killing but through suffering love and fidelity to Christ.

  • Takeaway Question: How might the Lamb’s way of power reshape our understanding of resistance? 

Week 3 — The Beasts and Babylon: Unmasking Empire (Rev. 12–18)

  • Focus: Dragon, beasts, and the whore of Babylon as images of Roman power.

  • Theologian Spotlight: James Cone 

  • Key Texts: Revelation 13 (the beast and the false prophet), Revelation 17–18 (Babylon’s downfall).

  • Themes: The Emperor (first beast), Roman propaganda/imperial cult (second beast), economic exploitation (Babylon).

  • Interpretive Move: To “endure” is to resist and to “come out of her” — disengaging from systems of idolatry, violence, and greed.

  • Takeaway Question: What does it mean to resist the beasts of our own time? What systems of oppression do we need to “come out of”? 

Week 4 — Victory of the Lamb: Healing of the Nations (Rev. 19–22)

  • Focus: Final victory of the Lamb, the New Jerusalem, God’s dwelling with humanity.

  • Theologian Spotlight: Jurgen Moltmann

  • Key Texts: Revelation 19:11–16 (the rider on the white horse), Revelation 21–22 (new creation, healing of the nations).

  • Themes: God’s victory is restorative, not destructive — the nations are healed, the curse is lifted.

  • Interpretive Move: The apocalypse ends not in escape but in God’s descent, dwelling with humanity.

  • Takeaway Question: How do we live today as citizens of the New Jerusalem, resisting evil while anticipating healing?

View Event →
Open Door Meal
Oct
6

Open Door Meal

Monday Night Open Door Meal – All Are Welcome!

Join us every Monday (except the 2nd Monday of the month) at 7:00 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall for our Open Door Meal—a free, warm meal for anyone who could use one. Whether you’re in need of a meal yourself or know someone who might benefit, we invite you to come, eat, and share in a time of community and care. No reservations, no requirements—just a good meal and a welcoming space.

Spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

View Event →
Life Together Discussion
Oct
5

Life Together Discussion

The Church Council invites you to join us in reading and discussing Life Together by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. This spiritual classic explores what it means to live in Christian community, drawing from Bonhoeffer’s own experience leading an underground seminary during Nazi rule. His reflections on fellowship, prayer, ministry, and confession remain deeply relevant today.

We’ll take our time with the book, meeting once every several weeks to allow space for reflection and practice. Each gathering will focus on a different section:

📖 May 25Community (pages 7–39)
📖 July 6The Day with Others (pages 40–75)
📖 September 7 The Day Alone (pages 76–89)
📖 October 5Ministry (pages 90–109)
📖 November 2Confession and Communion (pages 110–122)

We ask for a $15 donation per participant to cover the cost of the book. Please RSVP so we know how many copies to order.

Come journey with us as we reflect on what it means to share life together in faith!

View Event →
Ramona Youth Collaborative Fundraiser Dinner
Oct
4

Ramona Youth Collaborative Fundraiser Dinner

  • St. Mary's in The Valley Episcopal Church (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

https://www.facebook.com/events/2292656841187410/

Join us for a special evening in support of the Ramona Youth Collaborative! On Saturday, October 4th from 5–8 p.m. at St. Mary’s in the Valley Episcopal Church, enjoy a night of food, music, and community.

For just $25 per ticket, you’ll savor a delicious Mexican meal from a top-notch local food truck and enjoy live entertainment from three incredible acts: Thea The Band, The Beard and The Bird, and Elizabeth Bowersox. Browse and bid on unique items in our silent auction, knowing every dollar goes to support the life-giving work of the Ramona Youth Collaborative.

Come eat, listen, laugh, and be part of strengthening youth in our community.

click here to get tickets
View Event →
Revelation Bible Study: The Lion is the Lamb
Oct
1

Revelation Bible Study: The Lion is the Lamb

The Lion is the Lamb

A Study of the Book of Revelation

The Book of Revelation is one of the most misunderstood books in the Bible. Too often it’s treated like a code to be cracked or a roadmap of the end times. But at its heart, Revelation is resistance literature saturated in what we might now call liberation theology. It was written to and from marginalized communities living under the shadow of Roman oppression. It’s not about predicting the future so much as giving courage in the present.

In this four-week study, we’ll approach Revelation as a word of hope for communities under pressure. The book calls its readers to “endure” in the face of empire, showing that true victory comes not through force but through faithful witness, even when it leads to suffering. At the center is the great paradox of Christian faith: the Lion who conquers is revealed as a slain Lamb, whose self-giving love unmasks the powers of violence and redefines what it means to overcome.

Together, we’ll explore Revelation’s reversal of power, its call to resistance, and its vision of a new creation where God dwells with humanity and the nations are healed. Join us as we discover how this strange and beautiful book still speaks a word of courage, endurance, and hope today.

Week 1 — Endurance (Rev. 1–3)

  • Focus: Context of Domitian’s rule; apocalyptic literature as resistance literature and liberation theology.

  • Theologian Spotlight: Gustavo Gutierrez

  • Key Texts: Revelation 1 (vision of Christ), Revelation 2–3 (letters to the seven churches).

  • Themes: “Remain faithful,” “endure,” “to the one who conquers…”

  • Interpretive Move: Martyrdom = endurance = victory.

  • Takeaway Question: What does endurance look like for communities under pressure today? What is liberation theology? 

Week 2 — The Slain Lamb (Rev. 4–7)

  • Focus: Throne room vision (Rev. 4–5), the scroll, the slain Lamb revealed as the true conqueror.

  • Theologian Spotlight: Elsa Tamez

  • Key Texts: Revelation 5 (lion/lamb paradox), Revelation 6–7 (seals and the washing of robes).

  • Themes: Irony of apocalyptic dualism — the apparent winners (Rome) are losers, and the slain are victorious.

  • Interpretive Move: Victory does not come through killing but through suffering love and fidelity to Christ.

  • Takeaway Question: How might the Lamb’s way of power reshape our understanding of resistance? 

Week 3 — The Beasts and Babylon: Unmasking Empire (Rev. 12–18)

  • Focus: Dragon, beasts, and the whore of Babylon as images of Roman power.

  • Theologian Spotlight: James Cone 

  • Key Texts: Revelation 13 (the beast and the false prophet), Revelation 17–18 (Babylon’s downfall).

  • Themes: The Emperor (first beast), Roman propaganda/imperial cult (second beast), economic exploitation (Babylon).

  • Interpretive Move: To “endure” is to resist and to “come out of her” — disengaging from systems of idolatry, violence, and greed.

  • Takeaway Question: What does it mean to resist the beasts of our own time? What systems of oppression do we need to “come out of”? 

Week 4 — Victory of the Lamb: Healing of the Nations (Rev. 19–22)

  • Focus: Final victory of the Lamb, the New Jerusalem, God’s dwelling with humanity.

  • Theologian Spotlight: Jurgen Moltmann

  • Key Texts: Revelation 19:11–16 (the rider on the white horse), Revelation 21–22 (new creation, healing of the nations).

  • Themes: God’s victory is restorative, not destructive — the nations are healed, the curse is lifted.

  • Interpretive Move: The apocalypse ends not in escape but in God’s descent, dwelling with humanity.

  • Takeaway Question: How do we live today as citizens of the New Jerusalem, resisting evil while anticipating healing?

View Event →
Understanding and Overcoming Depression
Sep
30

Understanding and Overcoming Depression

Join us to learn about depression awareness, treatment options, and support resources available in our community. Together, we can break the stigma and encourage open conversations about mental health challenges. Presented by Vista Hill SmartCare.

View Event →
Open Door Meal
Sep
29

Open Door Meal

Monday Night Open Door Meal – All Are Welcome!

Join us every Monday (except the 2nd Monday of the month) at 7:00 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall for our Open Door Meal—a free, warm meal for anyone who could use one. Whether you’re in need of a meal yourself or know someone who might benefit, we invite you to come, eat, and share in a time of community and care. No reservations, no requirements—just a good meal and a welcoming space.

Spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

View Event →
Open Door Meal
Sep
22

Open Door Meal

Monday Night Open Door Meal – All Are Welcome!

Join us every Monday (except the 2nd Monday of the month) at 7:00 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall for our Open Door Meal—a free, warm meal for anyone who could use one. Whether you’re in need of a meal yourself or know someone who might benefit, we invite you to come, eat, and share in a time of community and care. No reservations, no requirements—just a good meal and a welcoming space.

Spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

View Event →
Mission Dinner & Auction
Sep
20

Mission Dinner & Auction

Mission Dinner & Auction

Join us for a memorable evening at First Congregational Church of Ramona to support our Free Farmer's Market Food Distribution!

Date: September 20th
Location: 404 8th Street, Ramona, California
Doors Open: 5:00 PM
Silent Auction Starts: 5:00 PM
Dinner: 5:30 PM
Live Auction Begins: 6:15 PM

Event Highlights:

  • Delicious Mexican Buffet Dinner: Enjoy a mouth-watering Mexican food dinner.

  • Silent Auction: Bid on exciting items and experiences.

  • Live Auction: Engage in lively bidding with unique items up for grabs.

  • Intermission Entertainment: Delight in live entertainment and indulge in desserts.

Our Free Farmer's Market Food Distribution feeds hundreds of families every month, addressing the significant need in Ramona. With your support, we provide essential groceries to our community, ensuring that everyone has access to nutritious food. This vital program relies on donations and the generosity of our supporters to continue making a difference in the lives of those in need. We receive fresh produce from Feeding San Diego, but we need your help to purchase dry goods each month for our food distribution on the second Friday at 12:30 PM.

How You Can Help:

  • Donate Auction Items: Your generous donations will contribute to the success of our event.

  • Attend the Event: Bring your friends and family for a night of fun, food, and fundraising.

Tickets & Donations:

  • Tickets will be sold in person on the church patio on Sundays between worship gatherings OR in the church office during office hours.

Let’s come together to support our community and ensure no one goes hungry. We look forward to seeing you there!

Contact Us: office@fccramona.org (760)789-3348

First Congregational Church of Ramona
404 8th Street, Ramona, California

Share the event on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1487595592224192/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22surface%22%3A%22user_timeline%22%7D%2C%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22attachment%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22newsfeed%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D

View Event →
Open Door Meal
Sep
15

Open Door Meal

Monday Night Open Door Meal – All Are Welcome!

Join us every Monday (except the 2nd Monday of the month) at 7:00 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall for our Open Door Meal—a free, warm meal for anyone who could use one. Whether you’re in need of a meal yourself or know someone who might benefit, we invite you to come, eat, and share in a time of community and care. No reservations, no requirements—just a good meal and a welcoming space.

Spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

View Event →
Free Farmer's Market
Sep
12

Free Farmer's Market

Mark your calendars for the second Friday of every month and join us for our Free Farmers' Market! We partner with Feeding San Diego to provide fresh produce and good food to our community—absolutely free.

Food Distribution:

  • When: Second Friday of every month

  • Time: Distribution begins at 12:30 PM

Volunteer Opportunities: We need dedicated volunteers to help make this event a success! You can assist with setup and distribution during the following shifts:

  • Morning Shift: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

  • Afternoon Shift: 12:15 PM - 2:00 PM

Everyone is welcome to come and receive nutritious food and fresh produce. Help us share the bounty and support our neighbors in need! If you're interested in volunteering or have any questions, please contact the church office.

Together, let's make a difference in our community!

View Event →
Life Together Discussion
Sep
7

Life Together Discussion

The Church Council invites you to join us in reading and discussing Life Together by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. This spiritual classic explores what it means to live in Christian community, drawing from Bonhoeffer’s own experience leading an underground seminary during Nazi rule. His reflections on fellowship, prayer, ministry, and confession remain deeply relevant today.

We’ll take our time with the book, meeting once every several weeks to allow space for reflection and practice. Each gathering will focus on a different section:

📖 May 25Community (pages 7–39)
📖 July 6The Day with Others (pages 40–75)
📖 September 7 The Day Alone (pages 76–89)
📖 October 5Ministry (pages 90–109)
📖 November 2Confession and Communion (pages 110–122)

We ask for a $15 donation per participant to cover the cost of the book. Please RSVP so we know how many copies to order.

Come journey with us as we reflect on what it means to share life together in faith!

View Event →
Open Door Meal
Sep
1

Open Door Meal

Monday Night Open Door Meal – All Are Welcome!

Join us every Monday (except the 2nd Monday of the month) at 7:00 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall for our Open Door Meal—a free, warm meal for anyone who could use one. Whether you’re in need of a meal yourself or know someone who might benefit, we invite you to come, eat, and share in a time of community and care. No reservations, no requirements—just a good meal and a welcoming space.

Spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

View Event →
RYC Youth Group Gathering
Aug
31

RYC Youth Group Gathering

Each week, youth come together for a fun and meaningful evening. We share snacks, play games, enjoy each other’s company, and take time to talk about the things that matter—life, faith, and the world we live in. It’s a place where you can be yourself, make new friends, ask questions, and explore what God’s love means in everyday life. All youth, grades 6-12, are welcome! Whether you’re curious, confident, unsure, or somewhere in between, you’re welcome here.

Contact Us
View Event →
Open Door Meal
Aug
25

Open Door Meal

Monday Night Open Door Meal – All Are Welcome!

Join us every Monday (except the 2nd Monday of the month) at 7:00 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall for our Open Door Meal—a free, warm meal for anyone who could use one. Whether you’re in need of a meal yourself or know someone who might benefit, we invite you to come, eat, and share in a time of community and care. No reservations, no requirements—just a good meal and a welcoming space.

Spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

View Event →
Rally Day
Aug
24

Rally Day

Join us for a joyful and meaningful kickoff to our Education and Spiritual Formation ministry!
We’ll be celebrating the start of Sunday School, Small Groups, Adult Bible Study, the Ramona Youth Collaborative, and our ongoing commitment to being a WISE (Welcoming, Inclusive, Supportive, and Engaged) church for mental health.

Right after the 10 a.m. worship service, head outside for a fun and delicious kickoff to the new season! Enjoy FREE hotdogs, outdoor fellowship, and lawn games while learning about all the exciting opportunities coming up in Christian Education and Spiritual Formation for 2025–2026, including:

  • Sunday School

  • The Ramona Youth Collaborative

  • Small Groups

  • And much more!

Bring your family, meet new friends, and get ready for a year of faith, fellowship, and growth.
See you there!

View Event →
WISE Prayer and Meditation Gathering
Aug
20

WISE Prayer and Meditation Gathering

WISE Prayer Gathering: Prayer, Meditation, and Mental Health
Wednesday, August 20th at 6:30 p.m. in the Fireside Room
First Congregational Church of Ramona

Join us for a special WISE (Welcoming, Inclusive, Supportive, and Engaged) prayer gathering focused on the deep connection between mental health and spiritual life. In a world that often moves too fast and demands too much, we long for spaces where we can pause, breathe, and reconnect with God and with ourselves.

This evening of prayer and meditation is designed to offer just such a space—a gentle, reflective gathering where all are welcome to bring their whole selves: joys, wounds, questions, anxieties, and hopes. Through guided prayer, silent meditation, and shared presence, we will open ourselves to God’s healing love and deepen our compassion for ourselves and one another.

Whether you're in a season of struggle or simply seeking peace, you are invited. Come as you are. There is no pressure to speak or share—only an invitation to rest in the sacred, to pray with intention, and to care for your soul.

Let us hold space for one another and for the Spirit who meets us in every breath.

View Event →
Open Door Meal
Aug
18

Open Door Meal

Monday Night Open Door Meal – All Are Welcome!

Join us every Monday (except the 2nd Monday of the month) at 7:00 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall for our Open Door Meal—a free, warm meal for anyone who could use one. Whether you’re in need of a meal yourself or know someone who might benefit, we invite you to come, eat, and share in a time of community and care. No reservations, no requirements—just a good meal and a welcoming space.

Spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

View Event →
RYC Youth Group Gathering
Aug
17

RYC Youth Group Gathering

Each week, youth come together for a fun and meaningful evening. We share snacks, play games, enjoy each other’s company, and take time to talk about the things that matter—life, faith, and the world we live in. It’s a place where you can be yourself, make new friends, ask questions, and explore what God’s love means in everyday life. All youth, grades 6-12, are welcome! Whether you’re curious, confident, unsure, or somewhere in between, you’re welcome here.

Contact Us
View Event →
Youth - La Jolla Shores beach day (Copy)
Aug
7

Youth - La Jolla Shores beach day (Copy)

Get ready for an awesome day of sun, surf, and connection!
On Thursday, July 3, the Ramona Youth Collaborative is heading to La Jolla Shores for an epic gathering with youth groups from all over San Diego.

We'll meet at Ramona United Methodist Church before 9:00 a.m. to load up and head down to the North Lawn at La Jolla Shores. Once we arrive, we’ll set up, circle up for a shared message, then break into small groups for some brief discussion. After that—it’s beach time! You’ll be free to hang out, play games, explore, or just chill in the sun with new and old friends.

We plan to be back in Ramona around 5:00 p.m. (depending on traffic).

Don’t miss it!
Sign up using this Google Form: https://forms.gle/iuYBM9Fqr9CTG7pf8
Or email Ray by Sunday night to reserve your spot!

Let’s make some summer memories together.

View Event →
Open Door Meal
Aug
4

Open Door Meal

Monday Night Open Door Meal – All Are Welcome!

Join us every Monday (except the 2nd Monday of the month) at 7:00 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall for our Open Door Meal—a free, warm meal for anyone who could use one. Whether you’re in need of a meal yourself or know someone who might benefit, we invite you to come, eat, and share in a time of community and care. No reservations, no requirements—just a good meal and a welcoming space.

Spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

View Event →
RYC Kickoff
Aug
3

RYC Kickoff

Please come to the first ever youth group gathering of the Ramona Youth Collaborative!!! There'll be fun, fellowship, and learning!

All are welcome!! There will be an inflatable obstacle course and lots of fun!

View Event →
Youth - La Jolla Shores beach day
Jul
31

Youth - La Jolla Shores beach day

Get ready for an awesome day of sun, surf, and connection!
On Thursday, July 3, the Ramona Youth Collaborative is heading to La Jolla Shores for an epic gathering with youth groups from all over San Diego.

We'll meet at Ramona United Methodist Church before 9:00 a.m. to load up and head down to the North Lawn at La Jolla Shores. Once we arrive, we’ll set up, circle up for a shared message, then break into small groups for some brief discussion. After that—it’s beach time! You’ll be free to hang out, play games, explore, or just chill in the sun with new and old friends.

We plan to be back in Ramona around 5:00 p.m. (depending on traffic).

Don’t miss it!
Sign up using this Google Form: https://forms.gle/iuYBM9Fqr9CTG7pf8
Or email Ray by Sunday night to reserve your spot!

Let’s make some summer memories together.

View Event →