First Congregational Church of Wakefield UCC

Handbell Concert -2 p.m.
2019-12-07 14:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York)
To the World – Joy and Peace
The Wakefield Memorial Bell Choir and other participants have been working many hours practicing music for our popular Christmas Bell Concert to be presented on Saturday, December 7. Our hope is to give you an enjoyable hour (or so) of inspirational and unique music. Not only will there be our bells and chimes displaying a number of techniques and modalities, but also acoustic and electric guitars, keyboard magic, angelic dancers, and special vocal presentations. Our mission is to spread the love of God and the message of Christ’s birth through our musical offerings. There will be two performances at 2:00 and 5:00. The Wakefield Inn is offering meals before each concert. Reservations for a meal need to be made by calling 522-8272. Advance reservations are recommended through the church office, 522-3189. Donations will be used to help the Gafney Library and the ministries of our church. Seasonal Blessings to all,

Tree of Memories
2019-12-07 11:00 - 12:00
One of the most meaningful and expressive events of the holiday season, the Hospice Tree of Memories, is celebrating its annual commemoration at the Wakefield Opera House on Saturday, December 8 at 11 a.m. This occasion provides opportunities for family, friends, and neighbors to remember a loved one by placing an inscribed porcelain dove, a symbol of serenity, peace, and tranquility, on a lighted tree. Everyone is welcome to attend the ceremony. To purchase a dove in the name of a loved one, please speak to Ginny Schweitzer (522-9593) or contact the Central New Hampshire VNA and Hospice at 569-2729.

Thanksgiving Worship Service
2019-11-26 18:00 - 19:00

Free Family Movie Night
2019-11-08 19:00 - 20:30
FREE FAMILY MOVIE
“The Pilgrim’s Progress” an Animated Family – Friendly Feature!
Friday, November 8th at the Wakefield Opera House, 2 High Street, Wakefield, NH
Seating is first come and will fill up fast, movie starts at 7 pm.
A man named Pilgrim discovers a book, and the more he reads it, the more he is convicted of sin and judgment, obsessed with discovering the truth and ventures out and begins his journey meeting friends and foes along the way.
A free will offering to benefit the Revelation Media. Sponsored by First Congregational Church of Wakefield, United Church of Christ
https://youtu.be/RRr7vHykc-E

Bobby Jo Valentine Free Concert
2019-10-26 19:00 - 21:00 | Wakefield Opera House, 14 High Street, Sanbornville, 03872
Free Concert – Songs and Stories.
Bobby Jo Valentine is a multi-faceted and sought-after speaker, songwriter and storyteller who grew up on the windy seaside of Northern California.
He’s been called a hopeful, realist poet and a philosopher for the people. His songs are both earthbound and mystical, and speak to the gentle, everyday awakenings of an openhearted life.
Bobby has given a Ted Talk, has been awarded Song of the Year three times from West Coast Songwriter’s Association, is an out gay advocate for equal rights for all, and has performed thousands of events around the globe.
His compelling, poetic storytelling and songs have built a growing following of listeners and supporters, and his most recent collections, Fox Eyes, Whale Heart and Maybe Stars, are available everywhere music is offered online.
More info: https://www.bobbyjovalentine.com/

Summer Music Camp
2019-07-08 09:00 - 2019-07-12 12:00
We warmly invite your child(ren), ages 5 through 12, to attend our summer Music Camp at FCCW. The camp will be held from July 9 through 12, 2019. Children will gather each morning 9:00 to noon to learn Bible stories through music, dance, crafts, stories, and games. Daily snacks will be provided. This program has been a joyful experience for children (and staff) for the past two summers. There is no cost to participate. To preregister your child, call the church office at 522-3189. Space is limited.

Dress A Girl
2019-06-01 08:00 - 14:30
Dress a Girl Around the World is a Campaign under Hope 4 Women International (a 501 (c) 3 organization) bringing dignity to women around the world since 2006. Hope 4 Women International is a nondenominational independent Christian organization whose dream is a world where every girl has at least one new dress and knows that they are worthy of respect, and that they are loved by God.
We will be making dresses for the girls in Zimbabwe. The sew-in will be held on Saturday, June 1st from 8:30 AM – 2 PM. Breakfast will be provided at 8AM . We will also be providing soup and chowder lunch.
Patterns and instructions will be provided that day.
Each dress will need 1-1/2 yard of quality cotton fabric. No holiday prints or prints with food or Disney prints.
Avoid whites, light and solid fabrics as they will not be pretty after 30+ days of continuous wear without washing. In addition you’ll need a package of extra wide bias tape double fold. Elastic will be provided. Jacqueline Dewey, Ambassador Southern
Please preregister at truhne@gmail.com. Instructions on what to bring will be emailed after registration. It will be a great time. Come join us.

Easter Sunday Worship
2019-04-21 10:00 - 11:15
He Has Risen! He Has Risen Indeed! The sweet aroma of resurrection will fill our hearts and minds on Easter Sunday, April 21st at 10am. Come rejoice in Resurrection Joy!

Palm Sunday Service
2019-04-14 10:00 - 11:00
Join us for Palm/Passion Sunday-April 14th at 10am as we “Give It A Rest” and lay our palm branches down to welcome Jesus who has taught us how to carry a fitting yoke. Then we hear the Wakefield Memorial Bells ring the Hymn of Promise before we are reminded how easily love turns to hate… but LOVE wins!

Pot Luck and Film Screening
2019-02-27 17:30 - 20:00
You are invited to a potluck, movie and discussion hosted by the Outreach Ministry to be held on Wednesday,

February 27, in the Fellowship Hall.

The Devil We Know (2018) is a documentary showing the impact of citizens in West Virginia when they take on a powerful corporation for dumping toxic chemicals in the water supply. A discussion of the film will be led by Mindi Messmer, an environmental scientist and environmental advocate.

Why is this important to us? NH has the highest rates of breast cancer, bladder cancer and esophageal cancer in the nation. We will learn what is being done and what we can do to advocate for stronger environmental protections. The United Church of Christ has a strong and powerful history of Environmental Justice Ministries. www.ucc.org/environmental-ministries

Attendees are invited to bring a pot luck offering. Coffee and tea will be provided. Potluck begins 5:30 p.m.

Film and discussion begins at 6:00 p.m.

Farewell Service
2018-12-02 10:00 - 23:30
A farewell service for Rev. Mary James will be held on Sunday, December 2nd, at 10 am at our church, to be followed by a reception in the Fellowship Hall. Rev. Mary James served our church for twelve years and is much loved by her parishioners as well as by members of the community-at-large with whom she served on several boards. The service will feature special music.
All are welcome.

Hand Bell Concert
2018-12-01 14:00 - 15:00
“Movie Memories and Christmas Magic”
“Movie Memories and Christmas Magic” is a joyous, beautiful and entertaining hand bell concert which will be held on Dec. 1, 2018. It will be performed by the Wakefield Memorial Hand Bell Choir which is a member of the “Handbell Musicians of America Guild”. The Bell Choir has been preparing many months for this festive event and we look forward to their gifts of talent and music so generously offered!
There will be 2 concerts at 2:00pm and 5:00pm at the First Congregational Church of Wakefield, UCC, 2718 Wakefield Rd, Wakefield, NH. Reserved seating is recommended. Call 522-3189 or email fccwakefieldnh@gmail.com. The doors will open early to the Fellowship Hall for a warming welcome as we showcase the missions of the Church and our many options for Alternative Giving. Donation is $10 and the proceeds will benefit the Gafney Library and the Ministries of the Church. The Wakefield Inn and Restaurant will be offering dinner seating’s before each show. You may call them directly for reservations at 603-522-8272.

Centering Prayer
2018-11-13 15:00 - 16:00
Sharing our Stories, Praying for and With One Another

All are welcome to attend our Centering Prayer Circle, a time of “checking in” with church friends who share with one another the joys and concerns in their lives, and then pray together in word and in silence. We gather on some Tuesday afternoons at 3 p.m. in Parish Helpers Room. Please check the monthly calendar for exact dates.

http://www.fccwakefieldnh.org/calendar/

Contra Dancing
2018-10-13 19:00 - 21:00
Contra dancing is a traditional New England type of folk / square dance. Knowing how to do it is not required. The caller will teach you, and most of the steps involve basic moves—nothing fancy and it does not require a partner as all participants will be your partner at some point in the dance. Refreshments are included in the ticket price of $10 for adults, $5 for teens. Children 12 and under are admitted for free. Contra dancing is open to the whole family. Get tickets at the door!
Music and dance calling by String Equinox: Beverly Woods & Shana Aisenberg, with the Community String Band.
$10.00 Adult
$5.00 Teens
12 and Under Free
Refreshments included
All are Welcome! Even if you have 2 Left Feet!

Sunday School
2018-09-16 10:00 - 11:00

Annual Yard Sale
2018-08-24 08:00 - 14:00

Lenten Bible Study Series
2018-04-03 12:00 - 13:00
Beginning on Tuesday, February 20th, Bible Study will switch into Lenten “gear” as we delve in the UCC’s Stillspeaking Writer’s Group 2018 Lenten Devotional entitled “Lovers and Fools”. Every Tuesday in Lent, we will come together from 12:00-1:00 to discuss and share our feelings & observations for the week’s readings leading up to class. Please consider joining us in what typically turns into some lively, thought-provoking conversations – sprinkled with laughs and camaraderie.And an aside – why the title “Lovers and Fools”? This Lenten season starts with Ash Wednesday that happens to fall on Valentine’s Day and ends with Easter that happens to fall on April Fools Day!
Please contact me if you’re interested in the devotional Cost is $4). You can contact me at
julielouisekessler@gmail.com or 603-871-8066.
Julie Kessler

Service of Tenebrae
2018-03-29 19:00 - 20:00
Maundy Thursday Service of Tenebrae, March 29
Some people say it is the worship service that they find the most affecting of all the worship services offered in the life of the church. All ages 12 and above are invited to this solemn, contemplative service of Holy Communion, readings, music, and gradually extinguishing candlelight as we walk with Jesus through his last Passover week in Jerusalem, his time of great suffering, and his crucifixion. The service will begin at 7:00. Easter is all the more meaningful for those who take the time to experience the Service of Tenebrae.

Lenten Worship Series
2018-03-18 10:00
Lent and Easter Preaching Series
Pastor Mary is planning a preaching series for Lent and Easter on the theme of

“What Are You Up To?” This is an interesting question to place in conversation with one another, our lives, and the scriptures.
What are we up to, in light of God’s call and God’s promises?
What are we up to when we are at our best? Our worst? Our most joyful? Our most down-trodden?
What is God up to?

The themes for the series will be as follows:

Ash Wednesday Store Up (Service will be at 7 pm on February 14th)
First Sunday in Lent Come Up
Second Sunday in Lent Take Up
Third Sunday in Lent Raise Up
Fourth Sunday in Lent Light Up
Fifth Sunday in Lent Lift Up
Maundy Thursday Listen Up (Tenebrae Service will be at on March 29th, exact time TBA)
Palm Sunday Sit Up
Easter Look Up

We invite all to gather up a willingness to go on this journey together as we journey through Lent and travel all the way to the joy of Easter.

Crock Pot Dinner
2018-02-25 17:00 - 18:00
The Men’s Fellowship will host a Crock Pot Dinner on Sunday, February 25th at 5 p.m. Suggested donation: $5. Not sure what will be offered, but we do know that Barry will be making pulled pork! Join us for a good meal with lots of fun and fellowship!

CPR/ AED Training
2018-01-13 10:00 - 12:00
NH CPR Safety Services will hold training sessions at FCCW on two dates:
Saturday, January 13 at 10 a.m.
Saturday, February 16 at 10 a.m.
Cost: $25 per person and preregistration is required. Call the office at 522-3189.

Christmas Pageant
2017-12-10 10:00 - 11:00
All are invited to our Christmas Pageant, “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” directed by Denine Foulks, to be shared during our worship service on Sunday morning, December 10th. Our wonderful bell choir will also play, along with many other delightful musical offerings! It all begins at 10:00.

Broadway, Beatles and Bach at Christmas II
2017-12-02 17:00 - 18:00
“Broadway, Beatles & Bach at Christmas” is a joyous, beautiful and entertaining hand bell concert which will be held on Dec. 2, 2017. It will be performed by the Wakefield Memorial Hand Bell Choir which is a member of the “Handbell Musicians of America Guild”. The Bell Choir has been preparing many months for this festive event and we look forward to their gifts of talent and music so generously offered!
There will be 2 concerts at 2:30pm and 5:00pm at the First Congregational Church of Wakefield, UCC, 2718 Wakefield Rd, Wakefield, NH. Reserved seating is not necessary but available. Call 522-3189 or email fccwakefieldnh@gmail.com. The doors will open early to the Fellowship Hall for a warming welcome as we showcase the missions of the Church and our many options for Alternative Giving. The suggested donation is $10 and the proceeds will benefit the Ministries of the Church and the Wakefield Food Pantry. The Wakefield Inn and Restaurant will be offering a several dinner seatings before and after each show. You may call them directly for reservations at 603-522-8272

Broadway, Beatles and Bach at Christmas I
2017-12-02 14:30 - 15:30

Paint Class
2017-10-29 13:00 - 15:00
The next FUNdraiser Paint class at FCC –
October 29, 1 to 3 p.m.
$35.00

Summer Music Camp
2017-07-24 09:00 - 2017-07-28 12:00
Summer Music Camp for Kids – Directed by Janice Stanley
Registration for this week-long music camp for children in grades K thru 6 is now open! The Camp is free of charge, ecumenical in format and takes place from 9-12 noon.
To reserve a space for your child or children, please contact the Church Office by calling 522-3189 or emailing: fccwakefieldnh@gmail.com. The registration form is here: 2017 Registration Form Music Camp
Children will enjoy a variety of musical activities: singing, dance, and learning to make music with boom whackers, hand chimes, and simple instruments. Following Bible story themes, there will also be crafts, outdoor play and healthy snacks. The children will be treated to a delightful presentation of lively music by guest performers at the end of the week.

Annual Meeting of the Congregation
2017-06-11 11:00 - 12:00

New Member Info Session
2017-06-04 11:30 - 12:30
New Member Information Session

We will soon offer an information session for all who are interested in becoming members of the church. All who are interested in exploring membership are welcome to attend the session, which will take place right after the worship service on Sunday, June 4th. We will load up our plates with snacks from coffee hour and meet together in the large classroom for 90 minutes. It’s so fun for us all to get to know each other a bit more!
The advantages of becoming a church member are that members are able to take part in leadership positions, and all members are able to exercise a vote at our congregation’s annual meeting and other special meetings (called when important decisions must be made). Membership is a sign of a desire for an increased threshold of participation in the vibrant, joyful, illuminating, and outreaching life of our church. There is never any pressure to join the church, ever. There is always a warm invitation to do so, though!
Please let Pastor Mary know if you’d like to take part in the new member information session. We hope to receive all those interested into church membership the following Sunday, June 11th, which is also the date of our congregation’s annual meeting (held right after worship). So, please save both dates: June 4th and June 11th!
God bless us all as we look forward to new adventures in God’s love with new members on board!

Wakefield Pride Day 5K Relay Race
2017-05-20 08:00 - 10:00
For information about the 5K Relay Race click here: Relay information
For registration form for the 5K Relay Race, click here: 5K Relay Registration
For map, click here: Relay Map

Lenten Sunday Book Discussion
2017-04-02 09:00 - 09:45
Please join us on Sunday mornings beginning on the first Sunday of Lent, March 5th, at 9 a.m. for coffee and discussion. Location will be posted in the church. We’ll be reading daily devotions from the Stillspeaking Writers’ Group, Diving Lessons, and will talk about those readings as we gather. The books are in. Please pick one up at church or contact the church office.
