The Rev. Jeffrey Birch serves as our Minister at First Congregational Church of Wallingford, preaching a progressive, justice‑centered gospel held within the beauty and steadiness of traditional liturgical worship. Formed by the Great Lakes Maritime Academy and Lexington Theological Seminary, Jeff brings together practical wisdom, theological depth, and a love for inclusive, thoughtful community, both inside and outside the church walls. Jeff’s ministry at First Church creates room for honest questions, shared stories, and courageous compassion. He delights in helping the congregation connect ancient rhythms with contemporary hope, grounding faith in daily life and God’s wide‑open grace.
Dr. Gross has been Minister of Music at First Congregational Church since 1993. She has a Doctorate in Organ Performance from Hart School of Music where she studied with John Holtz and Ludgar Lohman. Her master's degree is from Syracuse University where she studied with Arthur Poister and David Johnson. Additionally, she studied harpsichord at Yale University with Richard Rephann. She plays viola da gamba and recorder with local groups.
Sydney Holloway has been attending the First Congregational Church of Wallingford since she was an infant. With roots going back to the founders, her family has a history of attendance, including John and Jean Holloway and David Holloway. She was confirmed in our church and participated in the mission trip to Hazlet, New Jersey. Sydney graduated from Lyman Hall High School in 2024 and is navigating through Gateway Community College to find her passion. She enjoys theater, music, sewing, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends. She is so excited to be a part of the staff at church and make the youth programs even stronger!
Lena Rivera is our Church Office Manager. Lena is a life-long Stratford resident, and a member of Emerge Outreach Center, Bridgeport CT. Lena is a Business Management and Legal Studies student at the University of New Haven. She is currently interning at Yale Conferences and Events, as a Hospitality Coordinator. She started her first organization in high school called People of the Islands, a cultural club dedicated to Caribbean student minorities. Lena loves animals and plants, especially tulips.
Tony keeps this building in the shape it needs to be in for the work we do here. As our sexton, he is responsible for the day-to-day care and maintenance of our campus — cleaning, repairs, setup, and all the behind-the-scenes work that makes Sunday morning possible. If you've ever walked into a warm, well-kept sanctuary on a cold Connecticut morning, you have Tony to thank.
Bob grew up at First Church and continues to worship here with his family. He has served on numerous ministries and teams, and also enjoys playing the carillon in the belfry. Bob's father was Collector for 20 years - Bob is only part-way there!
