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
Visitors are always welcome at First Church! Masks are recommended in the offices if you are not fully vaccinated, following CDC Guidelines.
The Food Closet is available Monday-Friday 9-12noon. Should you need anything relating to the office, please call, or email Linda Bonetti, Lauren Henderson, Rev. Carolyn Keilig, or Rev. Barbara Papagian.
Upcoming Events
Sunday Worship
We are back and live!
Join us on Sundays at 10am to worship with Rev. Carolyn Keilig!
[CLICK HERE] to send a Prayer Request to Rev. Barbara Papagian by 8:30am Friday.
We will no longer offer a virtual service.
Rev. Barbara will be sending out periodic inspirational messages via The FCC Friday Link on the 1st and 3nd Fridays of the month. 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.
9am Morning Watch
Join 9am Morning Watch Monday-Thursday.
[CLICK HERE] to connect to Facebook
[CLICK HERE] to access the Morning Watch Bulletin on the FCC Bulletins page.
Order Poinsettias by Dec 5th
[Click Here] for the Poinsettia Order Form.
Poinsettias can be picked up after the 7pm Christmas Eve Worship Service, or beginning Tuesday, Dec 28th.
Boots & Sneakers for Bakersville!
The Outreach Committee is collecting boots and sneakers (unisex style, youth 12-13 and 1-4) for Bakersville School. Please drop them off in the church office with your name. There's a sign up sheet on the office window.
Women's Connection
College Cookie Mailing is on Saturday, December 4th at 9am in the Parlor.
For more information about upcoming WC events, contact Denise Beaurivage (beau.de@comcast.net) or Pam LeBlanc (blanclp@comcast.net).
Highlights
Join us in person every Sunday at 10am!
*PLEASE READ OUR REOPENING INFORMATION*
ReOpening Protocol 10/21/21
Being able to worship together again on Sunday mornings is not only spiritually fulfilling but paramount in being able to reconnect with one another and with God.
In light of this, the Re-Opening committee will continue to meet and adjust our Covid protocols.
In concurrence with the Church Council and the Deacons, we believe that our established protocols will help ensure all our members and visitors will stay safe while worshipping with us and will allow us to continue to worship in-person each Sunday!
At the same time, we are aware that our church family includes children who are unable to be vaccinated, as well as those whose vaccination status is compromised because of health issues.
Recognizing the increasing number of Covid cases in the Manchester area, including breakthrough cases of those who are vaccinated, we urge you to follow the protocols that have been established. Should you contract Covid following attending worship, please contact our pastoral staff. For more information: Factsheet_for_People_Who_are_Close_Contacts.pdf (nd.gov)
Let's continue to gather safely every Sunday and find the strength and guidance from God that we all need during these uncertain times.
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Masks are strongly urged to protect everyone, following CDC recommendations.
Social distancing indoors should be practiced. (Feel free to greet one another outdoors)
If ramp access is needed, please ring the bell.
Offerings may be left in the box located in the narthex and plates by the exit doors.
Hand sanitizer and wipes will be available.
People may seat themselves in open pews - Do not sit in pews with "X".
The Cradle Room is available but not staffed.
We look forward to seeing everyone but urge you not to congregate inside the building at this time.
Thank you, The ReOpening Task Force, 10/21/21
Holly Berry Fair Overstock Sale!
Join us in the Dining Room after Worship Dec. 5th!
Contact Pam LeBlanc (blanclp@comcast.net) or Peggy Neveu (frannys1@aol.com) to talk about how you can get involved!
It's Angel Tree Time!
It’s Angel Tree time, and this year the Outreach Committee has an exciting twist. Instead of gift cards or gifts we would like to distribute filled Christmas Stockings! Please pick up your stocking to fill with $30 of gifts, wrapped or unwrapped (no food or candy, please).
2022 Stewardship Campaign!
The Stewardship Committee has mailed the 2022 Pledge Forms. We are at 95% of our Financial Goal of $160,000. Our second goal this year is to hear from everyone. We have only heard back from 100 of the 200 letters sent. Please pledge if you are able, but we understand that some have limited resources and can indicated you will "give as you are able." Your response indicates that we reached you and you enjoy receiving our mailings. To be taken off the active Membership role, please notify Linda.
2021 Photo Directory
Thanks to everyone who submitted a photo! We will be publishing an "online instant directory" with personal passwords by the end of the year.
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 and summer meeting times.
Queen City Pride Festival
Saturday, June 19th
Thanks to all who volunteered at this marvelous event!
See more about First Church Open & Affirming activities 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!
Bulletins and Sunday News will be available at all 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
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.
First Congregational Church
508 Union Street, Manchester, NH 03104
603-625-5093