Upcoming Events
Silent Film: The Black Pirate with Brett Miller, organ
May 31, 2026 | Sunday, 4 p.m.
Silent Film: The Black Pirate
Brett Miller, organist
Set sail for adventure with one of the great swashbuckling classics of the silent era! Join us on Sunday, May 31 at 4pm at First Congregational Church in downtown Columbus for a free screening of The Black Pirate (1926), starring Douglas Fairbanks, accompanied live on the church’s magnificent 1931 Kimball organ by acclaimed organist Brett Miller. Experience the excitement, romance, and daring exploits of this silent film masterpiece brought vividly to life through thrilling live accompaniment in the beautiful sanctuary of First Church. Fun for all ages — with free admission and parking!
Free and open to the public | Freewill offering
Johannes Brahms: Ein Deutsches Requiem
September 13, 2026 | Sunday, 4 p.m.
Commemorating the 25th Anniversary of September 11, 2001
On the twenty-fifth anniversary of September 11, 2001, the First Church Choir offers Brahms's Ein Deutsches Requiem, one of the most consoling works in all of choral music. Drawing its texts not from the traditional Latin Mass for the Dead but from the Lutheran Bible, Brahms shaped a deeply human meditation on grief, comfort, and the promise of peace. The orchestral parts will be performed in Brahms's own piano four-hands reduction, an intimate rendering that brings the music's warmth and tenderness to the fore. Conducted by Joshua Stafford, this performance is an act of remembrance and hope, offered freely to all who wish to gather, listen, and reflect. A profound and moving way to mark this solemn anniversary in downtown Columbus.
Free and open to the public | Freewill offering
Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror
October 30, 2026 | Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Joshua Stafford, organist
Just in time for Halloween, experience one of the most iconic films ever made. F.W. Murnau's Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror (1922) introduced the world to Count Orlok, one of cinema's most chilling figures, and its shadowy imagery and mounting dread remain as powerful as ever. Joshua Stafford performs a live organ accompaniment on the church's magnificent 1931 Kimball organ, bringing this landmark of German Expressionism thrillingly to life in the spectacular sanctuary of First Congregational Church in downtown Columbus. A haunting evening perfect for the season.
Free and open to the public | Freewill offering
Colin MacKnight, organist
November 8, 2026 | Sunday, 4 p.m.
Called "a stunning player of exceptional ability," Colin MacKnight brings exceptional artistry to Columbus for a recital showcasing First Church's two magnificent instruments: the four-manual 1931 Kimball organ and the 1972 Beckerath Gallery organ. Director of Music at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Little Rock, MacKnight holds his bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees from The Juilliard School and has been named one of The Diapason's "20 Under 30" eminent young organists. A prize-winner at competitions across the United States and Europe, he is one of the most compelling voices of his generation.
Free and open to the public | Freewill offering
Christmas Lessons and Carols
December 20, 2026 | Sunday, 4 p.m.
One of Columbus's most beloved holiday traditions returns to First Congregational Church for an evening of music, scripture, and candlelight. The Service of Nine Lessons and Carols weaves together readings from the Bible with some of the finest choral music of the Christmas season, telling the story of the nativity from the promise of the prophets to the birth in Bethlehem. Rooted in the great English cathedral tradition and first celebrated at King's College, Cambridge in 1918, the service has been a fixture of the Christmas season at First Church for generations.
This year's service features the First Church Choir and First Church Ringers, with the full splendor of two pipe organs, brass, and percussion. Come as you are and bring the whole family.
Free and open to the public | Freewill offering
Family Organ Day
January 30, 2027 | Saturday, 11 a.m.
How does a pipe organ actually work? What does it feel like to sit at a four-manual console? How do nearly 8,000 pipes produce sound? Find out at our Fourth Annual Family Organ Day, a free and interactive morning designed for curious minds of all ages. Visitors will explore First Church's two magnificent organs up close: the grand four-manual 1931 Kimball and the 1972 Rudolf von Beckerath Gallery organ. Children will also get to build and play a real working pipe organ using the OrgelKids kit, a traveling educational program developed in the Netherlands that empowers young children to assemble a working two-rank, two-octave pipe organ. No musical experience needed. Just come ready to listen, ask questions, and discover the king of instruments.
Free and open to the public
Organ, Brass, & Percussion
February 21, 2027 | Sunday, 4 p.m.
Few combinations in music are as thrilling as organ, brass, and percussion together, and few settings suit it better than the soaring sanctuary of First Congregational Church. This program brings together the full power of First Church's 1931 Kimball and 1972 Beckerath organs with the pageantry of brass and the drive of percussion in a concert ranging from the majestic to the electrifying. A concert for the whole community in the heart of downtown Columbus.
Free and open to the public | Freewill offering
Chelsea Chen, organist
April 11, 2027 | Sunday, 4 p.m.
Internationally renowned for her concerts of "rare musicality" and "lovely lyrical grandeur," Chelsea Chen is among the most distinctive organists performing today. A graduate of The Juilliard School and a Fulbright Fellow, she has composed original works and adapted music ranging from major classical repertoire to Taiwanese folk songs for the organ. Her wide-ranging programs are celebrated for their imagination and musical electricity. She performs on First Church's two extraordinary instruments: the four-manual 1931 Kimball organ and the 1972 Beckerath Gallery organ, in the heart of downtown Columbus.
Free and open to the public | Freewill offering
Joshua Stafford, organist
May 2, 2027 | Sunday, 4 p.m.
First Church's own Minister of Music closes the season with a solo recital on the church's two magnificent instruments: the four-manual 1931 Kimball organ, with its 4,407 pipes, and the 1972 Rudolf von Beckerath Gallery organ, with its 3,719 pipes. The First Prize winner of the 2016 Longwood Gardens International Organ Competition, Stafford has been praised for his "meticulous technique, innate and highly mature musicality, and constant musical engagement." His programs regularly span transcriptions, improvisation, and the full breadth of the organ repertoire. An unmissable afternoon to close a landmark season in downtown Columbus.
Free and open to the public | Freewill offering
Choral Evensong
Sunday, May 17 at 4:00 p.m.
Choral Evensong, rooted in the rich liturgical tradition of the 1662 Book of Common Prayer, has been aptly described by W.H. Auden as “the finest piece of liturgical writing in the English language.” This venerable Anglican service has a storied history that spans centuries, dating back to the early days of the Church of England. Originally crafted during the English Reformation, the Book of Common Prayer became a cornerstone of Anglican worship, and Choral Evensong stands as one of its most cherished expressions. Held in the late afternoon or early evening, this service offers attendees a serene and contemplative experience, where scripture, music, and prayer intertwine. Through psalms, hymns, canticles, and scripture readings, Choral Evensong invites you to connect with the divine in a profoundly meditative way, immersing yourself in a spiritual journey that is as timeless as it is beautiful—a true testament to the enduring legacy of the English liturgical tradition.
Music at Midday | Jeremy Bankson, organ
Wednesday, May 6, 12:15 p.m.
Jeremy Bankson, organist
Take a break from the busy workweek and experience the artistry of Jeremy Bankson, the Director of Music and Organist of Prince of Peace Lutheran in Dublin.
Free and open to the public | Freewill offering
First Church Ringers | Jennifer Fry, conductor
Sunday, May 3, 4 p.m.
First Church Ringers
Jennifer Fry, conductor
Celebrating our new five-octave set of Malmark handbells and seven-octave expansion of choirchimes, a delightful afternoon with the First Church Ringers conducted by Jennifer Fry.
Free and open to the public | Freewill offering
Choral Evensong
Sunday, April 19 at 4:00 p.m.
Choral Evensong, rooted in the rich liturgical tradition of the 1662 Book of Common Prayer, has been aptly described by W.H. Auden as “the finest piece of liturgical writing in the English language.” This venerable Anglican service has a storied history that spans centuries, dating back to the early days of the Church of England. Originally crafted during the English Reformation, the Book of Common Prayer became a cornerstone of Anglican worship, and Choral Evensong stands as one of its most cherished expressions. Held in the late afternoon or early evening, this service offers attendees a serene and contemplative experience, where scripture, music, and prayer intertwine. Through psalms, hymns, canticles, and scripture readings, Choral Evensong invites you to connect with the divine in a profoundly meditative way, immersing yourself in a spiritual journey that is as timeless as it is beautiful—a true testament to the enduring legacy of the English liturgical tradition.
Choral Evensong
Sunday, March 15 at 4:00 p.m.
Choral Evensong, rooted in the rich liturgical tradition of the 1662 Book of Common Prayer, has been aptly described by W.H. Auden as “the finest piece of liturgical writing in the English language.” This venerable Anglican service has a storied history that spans centuries, dating back to the early days of the Church of England. Originally crafted during the English Reformation, the Book of Common Prayer became a cornerstone of Anglican worship, and Choral Evensong stands as one of its most cherished expressions. Held in the late afternoon or early evening, this service offers attendees a serene and contemplative experience, where scripture, music, and prayer intertwine. Through psalms, hymns, canticles, and scripture readings, Choral Evensong invites you to connect with the divine in a profoundly meditative way, immersing yourself in a spiritual journey that is as timeless as it is beautiful—a true testament to the enduring legacy of the English liturgical tradition.
Music at Midday | Richard Fitzgerald, organ
Wednesday, March 4, 12:15 p.m.
Richard Fitzgerald, organist
Take a break from the busy workweek and experience the artistry of Dr. Richard K. Fitzgerald the Director of Music and Organist of Saint Joseph Cathedral, Columbus, Ohio
Free and open to the public | Freewill offering
Organ + Chamber Orchestra
Sunday, February 22, 4 p.m.
Joshua Stafford, organ
Ronald Jenkins, conductor
Back by popular demand, this program of music for organ and chamber orchestra, includes works by Handel, Rheinberger, and others
Free and open to the public | Freewill offering
Music at Midday | Michael Unger, harpsichord
Wednesday, February 4, 12:15 p.m.
Michael Unger, harpsichord
Take a break from the busy workweek and experience the artistry of Michael Unger at our beautiful Bechtel Harpsichord.
Free and open to the public | Freewill offering
Choral Evensong
Sunday, January 18 at 4:00 p.m.
Choral Evensong, rooted in the rich liturgical tradition of the 1662 Book of Common Prayer, has been aptly described by W.H. Auden as “the finest piece of liturgical writing in the English language.” This venerable Anglican service has a storied history that spans centuries, dating back to the early days of the Church of England. Originally crafted during the English Reformation, the Book of Common Prayer became a cornerstone of Anglican worship, and Choral Evensong stands as one of its most cherished expressions. Held in the late afternoon or early evening, this service offers attendees a serene and contemplative experience, where scripture, music, and prayer intertwine. Through psalms, hymns, canticles, and scripture readings, Choral Evensong invites you to connect with the divine in a profoundly meditative way, immersing yourself in a spiritual journey that is as timeless as it is beautiful—a true testament to the enduring legacy of the English liturgical tradition.
Family Organ Day
Saturday, January 17 at 10:00 a.m.
Join First Church Arts for the third annual Family Organ Day on Saturday, January 17 starting at 10 a.m.: an opportunity for the young and young-at-heart to meet the two magnificent pipe organs at First Church!
The morning includes:
A Short, Family-Friendly Concert
An Explanation & Demonstration of the Organs
An Opportunity to Build a Small Pipe Organ
A Chance to Play the Organs!
This is a great opportunity for any children interested in music, and especially piano students, to experience the thrill of hearing and playing a pipe organ! First Church is unique in being home to two world-class organs- a Kimball from 1931 and a Beckerath from 1972. There is no charge for this event.
All are welcome- please reach out to us if you or your child(ren) need any accommodations!
Christmas Lessons and Carols
Sunday, December 14 at 4 p.m.
Usher in the Christmas season with this beautiful candlelight festival featuring the First Church Choir, Ringers, Brass, and two organs. May the music of the choirs, the songs of the congregation, the prayers, and lessons read aloud bring you great joy and peace, which passes all human understanding.
Free and open to the public | Freewill offering
Music at Midday: Joshua Stafford, organ
Wednesday, December 3 at 12:15 p.m.
Organist Joshua Stafford offers a program of organ music for Advent.
Free and open to the public | Freewill offering
Ohio Capital Winds
Sunday, November 23, 4 p.m.
Ohio Capital Winds
Catherine Hope Cunningham, conductor
A champion of wind ensemble music, OCW performs classic repertoire from masters such as Holst, Sousa, Grainger, and Ohio's own Henry Fillmore. The musicianship of the ensemble's 30+ professional and semi-professional players is its hallmark. This program will also feature a work for wind symphony and organ!
Free and open to the public | Freewill offering
Choral Evensong
Sunday, November 16 at 4:00 p.m.
Choral Evensong, rooted in the rich liturgical tradition of the 1662 Book of Common Prayer, has been aptly described by W.H. Auden as “the finest piece of liturgical writing in the English language.” This venerable Anglican service has a storied history that spans centuries, dating back to the early days of the Church of England. Originally crafted during the English Reformation, the Book of Common Prayer became a cornerstone of Anglican worship, and Choral Evensong stands as one of its most cherished expressions. Held in the late afternoon or early evening, this service offers attendees a serene and contemplative experience, where scripture, music, and prayer intertwine. Through psalms, hymns, canticles, and scripture readings, Choral Evensong invites you to connect with the divine in a profoundly meditative way, immersing yourself in a spiritual journey that is as timeless as it is beautiful—a true testament to the enduring legacy of the English liturgical tradition.
Music at Midday | Jeanne Norton, harp
Wednesday, November 5, 12:15 p.m.
Jeanne Norton, harp; Joshua Stafford, organ
Take a break from the busy workweek and experience a calming performance of music for harp and organ.
Hymn Festival with Richard Webster, conductor
Sunday, October 19, 4 p.m.
Hymn Festival with Richard Webster, conductor
Noted composer, arranger, and choral conductor Richard Webster, formerly of Trinity, Copley Square, Boston, leads us in a hymn festival with the First Church Choir, brass, organs, and congregational song!
Free and open to the public | Freewill offering
Music at Midday | Nikita Annenkov, cello; Yihan Zhang, piano
Wednesday, October 1, 12:15 p.m.
Nikita Annenkov, cello; Yihan Zhang, piano
Take a break from the busy workweek and experience a breathtaking performance of music for cello and piano.
Free and open to the public | Freewill offering
Joshua Stafford, organist
Sunday, September 28 at 4 p.m.
Our first concert of the season will be played by our Minister of Music, Joshua Stafford. In addition to his role at First Church, Joshua is the Director of Sacred Music and Jared Jacobsen Chair Organist for Chautauqua Institution. He is also the 2016 winner of the Pierre S. DuPont First Prize at the Longwood Gardens International Organ Competition.
Free and open to the public | Freewill offering
Choral Evensong
Sunday, May 18 at 4:00 p.m.
Please join us on Sunday, May 18, at 4 p.m. as the First Church Choir sings a service of Choral Evensong. This service will be offered in memory of beloved choir member and church archivist Richard (Rick) Sayre. A homily will be offered by Designated Minister Joanna Samuelson, and a reception will follow in the Parish Hall where you will have the opportunity to share memories of Rick.
Music at Midday | Rees Taylor Roberts, organ
Wednesday, May 7, 12:15 p.m.
Rees Taylor Roberts, organ
Take a break from the busy workweek and enjoy the artistry of organist Rees Taylor Roberts, a graduate of Indiana University and Arizona State University.
Caroline Robinson, organ
Sunday, May 4, 4 p.m.
Caroline Robinson, organ
Organist and church musician Dr. Caroline Robinson has been featured as a solo recitalist across the United States. Previously serving as Organist and Associate Choirmaster at the Cathedral of St. Philip in Atlanta, Caroline was recently appointed Assistant Professor of Organ at the University of Michigan.
Music at Midday | Andrew Sords, violin
Wednesday, April 2, 12:15 p.m.
Andrew Sords, violin
Be captivated by the fiery brilliance and delicate mastery of violinist Andrew Sords! Praised for his "flawless performance" and "consummate musicianship," Andrew has thrilled audiences worldwide with his expressive and passionate playing. Join us for an extraordinary performance and experience the artistry of a true virtuoso.
Alan Morrison, piano and organ
Sunday, March 23, 4 p.m.
Alan Morrison, piano and organ
Join us for a spectacular afternoon of music featuring Alan Morrison, one of America's premier concert organists and pianists, in a performance that showcases his extraordinary artistry and versatility. This concert celebrates First Church's acquisition of a wonderful Steinway Model D concert grand piano
Organ + Orchestra
Sunday, February 23, 4 p.m.
Joshua Stafford, organ
Ronald Jenkins, conductor
Joanna Frankel, concertmaster
Experience the breathtaking synergy of organ and orchestra in a program of profound beauty and thrilling virtuosity. First Congregational Church presents Organ + Orchestra, featuring acclaimed organist Joshua Stafford, conductor Ronald Jenkins, and concertmaster Joanna Frankel in a program that highlights the expressive range of the organ in partnership with a dynamic chamber ensemble.
The concert features:
Howard Hanson – Concerto for Organ, Harp, and Strings
Francis Poulenc – Concerto for Organ, Strings, and Timpani
Edward Elgar – Sospiri for String Orchestra with Harp and Organ
Samuel Barber – Toccata Festiva for Organ, Strings, Trumpet, and Timpani
From the lush Romanticism of Hanson’s concerto to the striking contrasts of Poulenc’s beloved masterpiece, the dazzling brilliance of Barber’s Toccata Festiva, and the poignant lyricism of Elgar’s Sospiri, this program promises an unforgettable afternoon of music in the stunning acoustics of First Congregational Church.
Free and open to the public | Freewill offering
Family Organ Day
Posptponed! New date:
Saturday, February 8 at 10:00 a.m.
Join First Church Arts for the 2nd annual Family Organ Day on Saturday, January 11 starting at 10 a.m.: an opportunity for the young and young-at-heart to meet the two magnificent pipe organs at First Church!
The morning includes:
A Short, Family-Friendly Concert
An Explanation & Demonstration of the Organs
A Chance to Play the Organs!
This is a great opportunity for any children interested in music, and especially piano students, to experience the thrill of hearing and playing a pipe organ! First Church is unique in being home to two world-class organs- a Kimball from 1931 and a Beckerath from 1972. There is no charge for this event.
All are welcome- please reach out to us if you or your child(ren) need any accommodations!
Music at Midday | Qin Ying Tan, harpsichord, Guillermo Salas-Suárez, violin
Wednesday, February 5, 12:15 p.m.
Qin Ying Tan, harpsichord, Guillermo Salas-Suárez, violin
Take a break from the busy workweek and experience an unforgettable concert of Baroque brilliance with acclaimed violinist Guillermo Salas-Suárez and harpsichordist Dr. Qin Ying Tan. Don’t miss this extraordinary showcase of talent, artistry, and musical heritage.
Christmas Lessons and Carols
Sunday, December 15 at 4 p.m.
Usher in the Christmas season with this beautiful candlelight festival featuring the First Church Choir, Ringers, Brass, and two organs. May the music of the choirs, the songs of the congregation, the prayers, and lessons read aloud bring you great joy and peace, which passes all human understanding.
Music at Midday | History of the Carol
Wednesday, December 4, 12:15 p.m.
Elizabeth McConnaughey, soprano; Sean Ferguson, lute
Take a break from the busy holiday season to listen to some of your favorite carols from around the world and learn the story behind them!
Organized Rhythm
Sunday, November 24, 4 p.m.
Clive Driskill-Smith and Joseph Gramley explore the lyrical and powerful tonal aspects of thunderous and dulcet organ pipes married to the visceral, arresting, and delicate aspects of a wide array of percussion instruments through a collection of new works as well as beloved classical compositions.
Choral Evensong
Sunday, November 17 at 4:00 p.m.
Worship in the beauty of holiness with the First Church Choir.