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Annual Stewardship Message
The mission of the First Congregational Church is to faithfully embody the Spirit of Christ in worship, fellowship and service by engaging with the Bible, uniting all through the power of the Gospel, and supporting one another in the joy of Christ's love and the grace of God's forgiveness.
We are united in striving to know the will of God as taught in the Holy Scriptures, and in our purpose to walk in the ways of the Lord, made known or to be made known to us. We hold it to be the mission of the Church of Christ to proclaim the gospel to all people, exalting the worship of the one true God and laboring for the progress of knowledge, the promotion of justice, the reign of peace, and the realization of human goodwill. Depending, as did our ancestors, upon the continued guidance of the Holy Spirit to lead us into all truth, we work and pray for the transformation of the world into the Kingdom of God; as we look with faith for the triumph of righteousness and the life everlasting.
~ Author, Margaret Soper, Written to commemorate FCC's sesquicentennial in 1978
Open and Affirming Covenant
The faith community of First Congregational Church, Manchester, N.H., reaffirms our shared covenant and beliefs that the Gospel of Jesus Christ calls us to love one another and to extend welcome to all people. We affirm that each individual is a child of God and that all are worthy of God's love and grace.
As witness to these beliefs and as covenant members of Christ's church, we proclaim and celebrate God's love for people of all ages, all races and ethnic backgrounds, all mental and physical abilities, all socioeconomic backgrounds, all sexual orientations, all gender identities and gender expressions, and all other diverse attributes that are woven into the fabric of humankind.
We are called to be as one body, seeking to walk together in the complete life and ministry of our church. With God's grace, we resolve to be an open, inclusive, affirming, and accessible community of faith. We invite all to participate and share in the life and leadership, ministry and fellowship, worship and sacraments, responsibilities and blessings of our Christian community.
Approved by a Special Vote of the Congregation on November 17, 2017; and at the Annual Meeting on February 18, 2018
One of the best parts of my work is being able to teach and write about our faith and Church life. I'm pleased to offer my reflections... Learn more...
In 1839 the eager entrepreneurs of the Amoskeag Mills coaxed a small, struggling English Congregational Church to link arms with a small, struggling... Learn more...
First Church has a dynamic and inclusive music ministry for all ages. Our adult ensembles and children ensembles enrich our worship service... Learn more...
Pastor's Class
Rev. Kevin offers a variety of multi-week book and Bible study classes at different times during the church year. Past classes have included... Learn more...
"It is my time at First Church that helps me "recharge" my spirit with faith and hope for the coming week!"
Sue Hannigen
"A path which leads me forward in a journey of grace and love with my family, friends, and community."
Bruce Attridge
"Cherished elements of core traditions live on at First Church…"
Grant Dugan
"I hope others will find such joy when they come here."
Eleanor Flint Campbell
"We treasure our many friends and colleagues in this wonderful congregation."
Susan and Bruce Felmly
"I love First Church because of my involvement with Women's Connection."
Pamela LeBlanc
"I get an overall feeling of being uplifted."
Joan Currier
Sunday, January 19, 2020, at 10:00am
Worship This Sunday
Join us this Sunday for worship on the Second Sunday after Epiphany! Our Senior Pastor, Rev. Kevin Pleas, will lead the worship at 10:00am in the Sanctuary. This week's sermon is titled "Risky Business". The scripture reading is from Isaiah 49:1-7. Learn more...
Sunday, February 2, 2020, at 11:30am
Mind, Body, Spirit...with Jason Sokol
All Eyes Are Upon Us: Racial Struggles in the Northeast from Jackie Robinson to Deval Patrick
Service of Prayer and Healing
Inspired by the Celtic Tradition, the roughly half-hour service will include music, readings, prayers and an opportunity to receive a "Laying on of Hands" blessing. Service will be held in the Chapel following the 10:00am worship service and fellowship, on the 2nd Sunday each month.
2019 Cookbook
2019 Women's Connection Cookbook
See a member of Women's Connection to order
Men's Group on Saturday, January 18th at 8am
Join Rev. Pleas at the next monthly Men's Breakfast!
Sign up on the office window, or talk to Rev. Pleas for details.
Meet the Pastor Wednesdays 1pm-3pm
Drop in to see Rev. Pleas! Or anytime by appointment.
Come in Wednesdays 1pm-3pm for some very inspirational one-on-one time with Rev. Kevin Pleas.
Dress A Girl
The next Dress A Girl Sew will be Thursday, January 30th, at 9am; and Thursday, February 20th. Everyone is welcome to join us as we make some dresses for girls at risk around the world.
Thanks to everyone who continues to support and sew for Dress A Girl!
Sokhom has brought our dresses to Cambodia! This grandmother is raising the grandchildren so the parents can find work in Thailand.
Young Athletes Volunteers
Join the Young Athletes 5:30-6:30pm at Manchester Community Music School. Sign up on the office window, or see Bill Jones.
2019 Written Commitee Reports
Read the 2019 Written Committee Reports by clicking here!
The 2019 Financial & Statistical Reports can be picked up on Sunday, January 26th. Those not picked up will be mailed 1st Class on Monday, January 27th. Members wishing to receive a digital copy, can request one by email to Linda Bonetti at LBonetti@FCCManchesterNH.org.
See the latest Open and Affirming News by clicking here!
Current Videos
Click here to enjoy our current videos on Vimeo including "Weave" sung by our choir during the Dress A Girl Around the World Blessing and Stewardship Sunday service. Also check out "I Believe", Jeffrey Frye's original "We are Unbroken (After All)", and other unique and enjoyable FCC musical moments!!
Get connected to Rev. Kevin's insights! Learn more...
See the order of worship at First Church for the Sunday Service, including the Scripture Reading. Learn more...
What's happening this week in the life of First Church? Learn more...
What's happening this month at First Church? Learn more...
Congratulations to Emelia Attridge on her Ordination!
Welcome to our Confirmands!
Congratulations to our 2019 Scholarship Recipients!
Welcome New Member, Alan Martin!
508 Union Street, Manchester, NH 03104
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