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...
Children's Education Coordinator sought...
Some people brought children to Jesus so that he would place his hands on them and pray. But the disciples scolded them. “Allow the children to come to me,” Jesus said. “Don’t forbid them, because the kingdom of heaven belongs to people like these children.” Then he blessed the children and went away from there. —Matthew 19:13–15 (CEB)
In all that we do at our church, few things are as important as our children and youth. Ensuring that they know they are loved and safe when they are in our care, and providing classes and activities that bring them up in the faith — these are priorities for us that are as important as anything else we do together.
Our CE Coodinator will be moving this summer, so we are seeking an enthusiastic Children and Youth Education Coordinator for 12-15 hours a week. The CE Coordinator is responsible for the leadership and guidance of our Sunday School program for pre-school through eighth grade students. The person must be strong in building relationships among parents, teachers, volunteers, and the larger congregation to bring vitality and growth to the program. Strong candidates will possess excellent communication skills, including social media, and organizational skills; and be computer proficient. Teaching and working in children’s ministry experience are a plus. References and a successful criminal background check are required. If you are interested in learning more about this position, please click here.
Upcoming Events
Worship Sunday
Sunday, April 22, 2018 at 10:00am.
This is the Fourth Sunday of Easter. We welcome our member, Pip Adams, to lead traditional worship at 10am in the Sanctuary.
Prior to the 10am service, please enjoy the new Time of Greeting ... meet new friends and share fond memories before worship begins.
Tuesdays at 1pm and Wednesday at 6pm
Bible Study Class is a weekly gathering led by Reverend Kevin. This week’s session, Tuesday 4/17 & Wednesday 4/18, will be about Joseph's Story.
Read: Genesis 37-40 & Kenneth Davis: “Don’t Know Much About the Bible” pg.87-92
Every week will we update the next reading for discussion. Watch the Sunday News.
Great Bay Choral Festival
The First Congregational Church Chancel Choir will join 100 voices at the Choral Festival at the Christ Episcopal Church in Exeter.
"Canoeing the Mountains" Workshop 9am-12noon
Come to this important discussion about the future of Christian Leadership in our ever-changing world.
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 10:00 am worship service and fellowship, on the 2nd Sunday each month.
Latest News
Current Videos
Click here to enjoy our current videos on Vimeo!
From the Pastor's Desk
Get connected to Rev. Kevin's insights! Learn more...
Sunday Bulletin
See the order of worship at First Church for the Sunday Service, including the Scripture Reading. Learn more...
The Sunday News
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...
ONA Celebration Service on Sunday, November 18th at 3pm
Join us as we celebrate our Open & Affirming status with a special worship service and Celebration on Sunday, November 18th at 3pm. All are welcome to attend.
The faith community of First Congregational Church, Manchester NH 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 the Congregation on Sunday, November 19, 2017
First Congregational Church
508 Union Street, Manchester, NH 03104
603-625-5093