Our History
In 1839 the eager entrepreneurs of the Amoskeag Mills coaxed a small, struggling English Congregational Church to link arms with a small, struggling Scotch-Irish Presbyterian Church. First Congregational Church grew rapidly with the bustling, burgeoning city.
During the late 19th century we were active in welcoming new Americans to the city: Greeks, Germans, Lebanese, Swedes and others, some of whom worshiped in our building before striking out on their own. We continue that tradition of hospitality today with an English For New Americans program, and a Korean Church sharing our building.
As the city of Manchester has changed, American church habits have shifted, but the key elements of our tradition continue to thrive: faithfulness to the Gospel, service to our community, excellence in worship and music, and hope for those who come to us for assistance or to join our fellowship.
Due to our endowments and generous members, we are strong and healthy, continuing the ministry envisioned by our predecessors, demonstrated in ways appropriate for the early 21st century.
Children
We warmly invite you and your children to join us on Sunday mornings for a time of spiritual enrichment and fun.
From the Pastor's Desk
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...
Ways To Get Involved
There are many ways to become involved at First Church. As you become more familiar with our church, some of the opportunities to choose... Learn more...
First Church Concerts
First Church has a vibrant music ministry program which includes concerts throughout the year. These concerts feature talent... 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. Although visitors are welcome with masks, meetings and gatherings are not being held at this time.
The Food Closet is available Monday-Friday 9-12noon by prearrangement. Should you need anything relating to the office, please email Linda Bonetti, Rev. Kevin Pleas, or Rev. Barbara Papagian. Our prayers are with you.
Upcoming Events
Sunday Worship
[CLICK HERE] to join Rev. Kevin Pleas, our Senior Pastor, as he delivers this week's message on Facebook.com/FCCManchester, at 10am Sunday for weekly Worship.
To connect to the Web Bulletin, which includes music lyrics, please [CLICK HERE].
[CLICK HERE] to send a Prayer Request to Rev. 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.
Rev. Barbara will be sending out periodic inspirational messages via The FCC Friday Link. To sign up, send your email to Rev. 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.
9:10 Morning Watch
Join 9:10 Morning Watch Monday-Thursday.
[CLICK HERE] to connect to Facebook
[CLICK HERE] to access the Morning Watch Bulletin on the FCC Bulletins page.
Congratulations, Rev. Barbara!
The Ordination Ceremony and Installation of Rev. Barbara Papagian as our Associate Pastor was on Sunday, May 16th!
Church World Service
Honor your mother or special lady with a donation to Church World Service!
[CLICK HERE] for the Mothers Day Blanket Donor List.
Honor your father or special man with a donation to Church World Service!
[CLICK HERE] for the Fathers Day Tools for Hope Sunday Order Form with instructions. Return the form to the office by June 11th, and send a photo of your loved one to Adam Peithmann at APeithmann@FCCManchesterNH.org.
Highlights
Join us in person on Sunday, June 27th
Please call the Church Office 603-625-5093 to reserve seating.
Watch the FCC Friday Link as we develop more plans for opening the doors!
Protocol for In-Person Worship
- Advance reservations are needed for contact tracing and can be made by calling the church office (625-5093) Monday-Thursday.
- Families/Units can sit together in a pew.
- Entry is through the center Narthex doors ONLY.
- Upon entry, please check name with greeter.
- Exiting is through the casket door ONLY.
- If handicap access is needed, please convey this when making reservations.
- Collection box will be located in the narthex and near the exit door.
- There will be limited access to upstairs bathroom; no downstairs access.
- Hand sanitizer and wipes will be available.
- Ushers will hand out bulletins to those entering the sanctuary
- People can seat themselves in open pews.
- No child care or church school but the Nursery is available.
- Masks are required. Vaccinations are strongly urged.
Memory Garden gets a facelift!
Thanks to everyone who pitched in to work on the Memory Garden! Our tranquil space for personal reflection and healing is available to you outside the Chapel doors.
Donations to the Memory Garden can be sent directly to FCC with "Memory Garden" in the memo.
Holly Berry Fair on November 20th!
Get ready for the Holly Berry Fair on Saturday, November 20, 2021! 
Will will have open craft days to work on projects Thursdays, July 15 & 22, and August 5 & 19. Contact Pam LeBlanc (blanclp@comcast.net) or Peggy Neveu (frannys1@aol.com) talk about how you can get involved!
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!!
Open & Affirming
See the latest Open and Affirming News by [clicking here]!
The Open & Affirming Committee generally meets via zoom on the 4th Sunday at 1pm. Contact Carol Soucy for more information.
Queen City Pride Festival
Saturday, June 19th noon-6pm
FCC folks are invited to volunteer for the event. If you are interested in helping out for an hour or 1.5 hour shift, please call Carol Soucy 603-591-6387; email carolsoucy@comcast.net, or contact Lauren Henderson in the church office. A sign-up sheet will also be posted on the church office window.
We appreciate the support and assistance we’ve received from the Membership Committee. They are preparing print give-aways and FCC labeled water bottles for that day. The QCP organizing committee has established Covid-19 protocols. If you sign up as a volunteer, committee members will review the plans QCP has established for the safety of all.
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? Click on the FCC Friday Link to see what happening around First Congregational Church!
For the rest of the "Covid season" we will stop producing the Sunday News, and resume it with the Bulletins at "in person" services.
Church Window
What’s happening this month at First Church? Learn more...
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