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A Movement for Wholeness in a Fragmented World

Our ministry is associated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of the United States and Canada, a movement of over 3,000 congregations. The Red Chalice is our denominational logo, signifying our celebration of an Open Table every Sunday, which means all are welcome to receive communion and participate in the life, leadership, and mission of our church no matter where you are on life’s journey.

Meet Our Dedicated Leadership Team

Our dedicated staff and leadership team guide members and visitors alike in their journey of faith and service.

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Rev. Benjamin J. Barlow

Senior Pastor
For more than twenty years, B. J. has walked alongside churches through seasons of growth, challenge, and renewal. Along the way, he has served in music ministry, directed international cultural immersion programs, guided congregations through revitalization and crisis, and created spaces where faith communities can deepen their commitment to justice and inclusion. B. J.’s ministry has been recognized with multiple awards for promoting peace and inclusion, and he is a sought-after public speaker, known for empowering young ministry leaders.
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Rev. Kyungmok Lee
Associate Pastor
Rev. Lee is an immigrant from South Korea with a wide range of ministry experience. His passion for building strong community and bridging the divide between cultures inspires us all to live as Christ did, spreading God's love to all of God's children. Rev. Lee hosts a book club once a month (find out more on the ministries page) and all are welcome to join the meaning conversations.
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Brenda Navarro
Worship Musician
Whether it is teaching children to play the piano and sing, leading music at a wedding, or ushering in the Spirit on Sunday mornings, Brenda offers the church tremendous passion for music that inspires all to engage in meaningful worship.
Man working on music production in a home studio.
Jaaenos Malone
Tech Director
Let's face it, without an excellent tech director fueling the online feed, live audio/visual arts, and empowering volunteers to do excellent ministry, worship on Sundays would not be all it can be. Jaaenos brings to the team a wealth of audio/visual tech knowledge and his creativity lifts up our worship in profound ways. We are truly grateful for his generosity in sharing his talents every Sunday morning.
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Anna Funk
Children’s Ministry Coordinator
We couldn't ask for a more creative, fun, caring, and intentional Children's Ministry Coordinator than Anna. She brings years of Camp Ministry, Children's Ministry, and Congregational experience to First Christian Church, and has a special way of connecting with all the children who are a part of our faith community.
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Megan Barlow
Secretary/Bookkeeper
Whether its answering phones, making copies of bulletins, creating and printing financial reports, or simply being a listening ear, Megan brings joy, energy, and love to our church family. For years she has provided stability and compassion for all members of First Christian Church.

Mission to Nurture and Serve

  • Small Group Ministries: Thought-provoking sessions for spiritual growth
  • Bible Studies: Small groups encourage deep reflection
  • Engaging Worship: Community drawn closer to God
  • Serve Others: Actively helping vulnerable populations in need
  • Inclusive Ministry: Practicing inclusivity across all initiatives
  • God’s Love: Demonstrating love through practical actions
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Historic Roots and Community Service

Founded in 1891 in a small home in Ontario, California, First Christian Church has faithfully served our community for over 130 years. From providing food, clothing, and shelter to affiliating with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the early 1900s, we have always prioritized community care and justice ministries. 

Renewed Vision and Partnership Model

In 2024, we sold our historic sanctuary to focus on people over property. This renewed vision emphasizes radical love, inclusivity, and partnership with community organizations. Our logo reflects this model - Daisy - with FCC Ministries (Worship, Service, Education) at the center and our ministries partners represented by each petal.

Collaborating With Community Partners

Life Community Development, Cub Scouts, Ontario-Montclair School District, Global Ministries (UCC/DOC), and Week of Compassion (DOC) are among the many partners we serve with to make the world a better place.

Experience God’s love in action—get involved today!

Plan Your Visit