Children
Sunday Mornings for Children
We warmly invite you and your children to join us on Sunday mornings for a time of spiritual enrichment and fun.
Visiting for the first time?
Please feel free to contact Kelda York, Children’s Ministry Coordinator, at KYork@FCCManchesterNH.org if you have any questions or if you would like to arrange a time to familiarize yourself with our building before coming to worship for the first time. On Sunday morning, feel free to ask an Usher or Greeter to introduce you to Betsy prior to the start of the worship service.
Kelda York, Children’s Ministry Coordinator
603-625-5093
Pre-K through Seventh Grade
We offer Sunday School during our 10:00am service during the school year. This summer there will not be church school during services, however the children’s room will be available for parents to use with their children if necesary. Every other Sunday during the summer there will be a planned activity: July 7, July 21, August 4, August 18 and September 1. If you are interested in leading the project, please contact Kelda…no experience is necessary and everything is supplied for you!
Children begin worship in the Sanctuary with their families. Following the “Talk with God’s Children” they exit the Sanctuary and gather in the recreation room for the scripture of the month, video over view of the scripture lesson, along with learning new songs. Children then go to their age level Sunday School class rooms. Grades 5 -7 have a more in-depth scripture lesson with a young teen focus on mission and how does the Bible apply in this time of their life.
First Church uses the Deep Blue curriculum, which excites children to connect with the Bible and the world around them through Bible stories easily read in the CEB language. Grades 5 -7 submerge into mission and spark discussions about applying scripture to everyday experiences. Each week closes with thought and prayer using a contemporary video. Technology is available with this curriculum along with a weekly devotional for the entire family.
Click here for the 2019-2020 Church School Registration Form
Communion
We encourage our children to participate in Communion with their families on Communion Sunday’s. Children are escorted to the sanctuary to join with their family for Communion.
Children’s Choir
The Children’s Choir will practice in the Sanctuary (if no other congregational meeting is taking place in the Sanctuary that day) at 11:30am. Children in grades 2-8 are invited to speak with our Director of Music, Adam Peithmann, about openings.
First Church Choirs
Our choirs enrich your worship experience, which includes children’s story, music, sermon, and prayer.
Communion
Communion is celebrated during worship on “Threshold Sundays” – the first Sunday of Advent, the first Sunday of the New Year, the first Sunday... Learn more...
Bible Study
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...
VISITORS TO THE FCC OFFICES
Until further notice, visitors should call ahead to ensure the health and safety of our staff, members, and friends. The Food Closet is available Monday-Friday 9-12noon by prearrangement. Should you need anything relating to the office, please email Linda Bonetti or Barbara Papagian. Our prayers are with you.
Upcoming Events
9:10 Morning Watch
Join 9:10 Morning Watch with Peter Monday-Thursday.
[CLICK HERE] to connect to Facebook
[CLICK HERE] to access the Morning Watch Bulletin on the FCC Bulletins page.
Sunday Worship
[CLICK HERE] to join Rev. Stephen Cushing, the Executive Director and Senior Chaplain of New England Seafarers Mission in Boston, as he delivers this week's message on Facebook.com/FCCManchester on Sunday at 10am for weekly Worship.
To connect to the Web Bulletin, which includes music lyrics, please [CLICK HERE].
[CLICK HERE] to send a Prayer Request to Barbara Papagian by 8:30am Friday.
You do not need a Facebook account to view the services live or watch the videos on your own time.
Barbara Papagian will be sending out periodic inspirational messages via The FCC Friday Link. To sign up, send your email to Barbara by [CLICKING HERE]. We pray that everyone stays safe, obeys the rules, and keeps in phone or email contact with all those in need of kindness and an encouraging word.
Stewardship Campaign 2021
$=$$
Much to our surprise and delight, one of our FCC members, who has learned of our plight to reach our 2021 Stewardship Pledge goal, has stepped up to offer a matching grant, up to $5,000, for any additional 2021 pledges received by December 15th!
Your ongoing support, particularly in this pandemic year of separation, is needed more than ever. We understand if you are unable to pledge, but please acknowledge the receipt of the form so we know you are connected...together or apart. You may also email Linda at LBonetti@FCCManchesterNH.org.
If you have any questions, please call Linda or Dan McKenney.
Barbara Papagian Ecclesiastical Council
She made it!
The Hillsborough Association of the NH Conference-UCC approved Barbara to become an Ordained Minister! Watch for more details of her Ordinationn Ceremony as they unfold in early 2021. Congratulations to Barbara from FCC! You make us so proud!
Highlights
Holiday Schedule
Monday, November 23rd - 7pm GMCA Ecumenical Thanksgiving Worship via Zoom [CLICK HERE]
Sunday, November 29th - 10am Advent Sunday with Rev. Stephen Cushing
Advent Family Workshop at Home - watch for ornament ideas or pick up at kit at FCC
Sunday, December 6th - 10am 2nd Sunday of Advent with Rev. John Potter
Monday, December 7th - 7pm Blue Christmas Service with Barbara Papagian [CLICK HERE]
Friday, December 11th - 7pm Adam the Elf online Sing-a-long [CLICK HERE]
Sunday, December 13th - 10am 3rd Sunday of Advent with Rev. Kevin Pleas
Monday, December 14th - 6:45pm Interfaith Women "Home for the Holidays" [CLICK HERE] for more information
Sunday, December 20th - 10am 4th Sunday of Advent with Barbara Papagian
Thursday, December 24th - 6pm Candlelight Family Worship with Rev. Kevin Pleas
Sunday, December 27th - 10am First Sunday after Christmas with Rev. Kevin Pleas
[CLICK HERE] to join all services on Facebook.com/FCCManchester at the appropriate times.
To connect to the Web Bulletins or music lyrics, please [CLICK HERE]. You will be directed to the FCC Bulletins page where items are posted in a timely manner.
[CLICK HERE] to send a Prayer Request to Barbara Papagian by 8:30am Friday.
You do not need a Facebook account to view the services live or watch the videos on your own time.
Friday Nights at FCC at 6pm
Looking to end the week on a high note? On Fridays at 6pm Adam Peithmann will post a 20-30 minute mini recital from FCC on Vimeo. Tune in to hear your favorite hymns arranged in a variety of styles plus classical standards. We hope to see you there!
Please [CLICK HERE] to access Vimeo. Events remain on Vimeo for your inspiration.
Women's Connection
Cookie Baking for College - drop off by 12/4
Join the Zoom socials...connect with Pam or Denise
2020 Holly Berry Fair
Plan for November 2021!
Pam LeBlanc and Peggy Neveu are still coordinating our Holly Berry Fair - we can't have a traditional fair, but please continue to create and plan for a spectacular event in 2021!
Anyone interested in making items for the Fair during this hiatus should contact Pam or Peggy. Send them a photo of what you would like to donate or how you would like to help!
Coming Back Soon
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, once we are reunited.
Men's Breakfast
Join Rev. Kevin and Peter Perich as the men of FCC make breakfast on the third Saturday of each month, and then enjoy a prayer discussion. We will post when the next date is!.
Dress A Girl
Watch for updates. Everyone is welcome to sew on their own or join us as we make some dresses for girls at risk around the world. Contact Linda Bonetti for patterns or kits.
Thanks to everyone who continues to support and sew for Dress A Girl!
To make masks for healthcare workers, here is a YouTube video I found very useful. Call the facility first before dropping them off, please. Pattern for medical masks
Latest News
Videos on Vimeo
[CLICK HERE] to enjoy our current videos on Vimeo. Recently Adam has been recording some select pieces for your enjoyment. Also check out "I Believe", Jeffrey Frye's original "We are Unbroken (After All)"; "Weave" sung by our choir during the Dress A Girl Around the World Blessing and Stewardship Sunday service; and other unique and enjoyable FCC musical moments!!
Quick Links to Content
From the Pastor's Desk
Link to Pastor Kevin Pleas' In the Spirit columns by [clicking here].
Sunday Bulletin
See the order of worship at First Church for the Sunday Service, including the Scripture Reading. Learn more...
The Sunday News & FCC Friday Link
What’s happening this week in the life of First Church? Learn more...
Church Window
What’s happening this month at First Church? Learn more...
What's happening with committees!
Read the 2019 Written Committee Reports by clicking here!
The 2019 Financial & Statistical Reports. Members wishing to receive a digital copy, can request one by email to Linda Bonetti at LBonetti@FCCManchesterNH.org.
Cookbook
Women's Connection Cookbook
only $12.50 each
!See a member of Women's Connection or call the office for your copy of our favorite recipes
First Congregational Church
508 Union Street, Manchester, NH 03104
603-625-5093