About us

Our Mission


First United Church of Arvada teaches and lives the Word of God in the community and in the world, reaching out with friendly hospitality to members, friends and visitors, welcoming all persons to worship and ministry.
A Belief in the Strength of Community
Life in today’s world has become so isolated for so many. Until we know true community, we don't always realize what we have been missing. First United Church of Arvada is such a community¾a community of faith, where all fit in and feel welcome. No matter where you are on your journey of faith, we invite you to come and worship with us.
A Welcome from Our Pastor, Karin Kilpatric
Hello, my name is Karin Kilpatric.  I have been at First United Church of Arvada since 1999. I am a 1985 graduate of Perkins School of Theology, a Southern Methodist University. I also have a Master of Arts Degree in Speech Communications from Webster University. Raised in the Presbyterian Church, educated in a Methodist seminary, ordained in the Christian Church, Disciples of Christ and now serving a United Church of Christ, I have had an "ecumenical" church history. Prior to parish ministry, I worked as a hospital chaplain, campus minister, youth minister, and college instructor. I am married to Dr. Steven Bennett, a professor at Regis University. We live in Boulder, Colorado with our two daughters.
I welcome you to worship with us in a loving and accepting community that may also challenge you to fulfilling service along the way!

Our History


In August 1961, a small group of worshippers met in the Grange Hall at the corner of 72nd Street and Simms in Arvada. Thirty-two adults and eighteen children met for services in September of that year. The organizing group contracted with Robinson Lapp (that courageous minister on the frontlines in Selma, Alabama) to become its first minister in December 1961. A church Covenant was adopted and the then seventy-two members were received into the United Church of Christ in 1963.
To learn more about the tenets and origins of United Church of Christ denomination, click here. (pdf LINK to pages 8-9 of this document).
From that time the Church has actively participated in community and social issues. Several dedicated pastors have shared and guided this focus, including:
Robinson Lapp (1962-1967), Robert Kinsey (1967-1971), James Koob (1971-2000), Jack Wieczorek (2000-2006) and Karin Kilpatric (2000-Present). Pastor Karin has served as Director of Family Ministry, Co-Minister and now as sole Minister.
The Church continues to be a welcoming congregation of varied ages. Our membership now exceeds 150 people.


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