Member Spotlight

First Congregational Church

 About First Congregational Church

First Congregational Church is a faith community that is called together by God, the creator and sustainer of life, to worship, pray and serve; led by Jesus Christ, our teacher and savior, to learn the faith and welcome all God's children; empowered by the Holy Spirit to witness to God's love and justice between ourselves, and throughout the world. We believe that we are all created in God's image, female and male, and we are called to love our neighbors as Jesus loves us. We believe we are many members, but one body in Christ, and called to unite all people in God's love. We welcome and affirm all people. Our faith community seeks to unite persons of all ages, races, nationalities, ethnicities, sexual orientations, mental and physical abilities, socioeconomic levels and political and theological backgrounds.

First Congregational Church Facts

First Congregational was established in 1852 by members who were passionate activists in the abolitionist movement against slavery. The church originally was located near the Statehouse, and the current neo-Gothic style church was built in 1931.

Members worship each Sunday at 9 and 11 a.m., with an informative education hour offered between services. First Church has a vibrant music program, which includes a renowned Sunday afternoon concert series throughout the year. Its beauty also is a favorite venue for weddings, hosting many ceremonies for members and non-members alike.

First Congregational is an active member of Building Responsibility Equality And Dignity (BREAD) and hosts the annual Bethlehem on Broad Street, a Christmas Day dinner for the community. It also partners in the neighborhood with Faith Mission, and provides assistance to the needy through the Good Samaritan program.

First Congregational is affiliated with the United Church of Christ, and adopted in 2002 its Open and Affirming Statement welcoming people from all walks of life.