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November 2018
By Senior Pastor
Rev. Kevin Pleas
During the Great Depression, the playwright Thornton Wilder remarked, “The revival in religion will be a rhe-torical problem — new persuasive words for defaced or degraded ones.” Wilder knew that during times of rapid social change, God-talk is often difficult to muster. We may have traded 1930s-level poverty and hunger for a resurgence in racism, sexism and environmental cata-clysm, but our problems are no less serious — or spiritu-ally disorienting. While many of our most visible leaders claim to be religious, their moral frameworks seem un-recognizable to masses of other believers. How do we speak about God in times like these when God is hard to spot?
— Jonathan Merritt, a contributing writer for The Atlantic and the author, most recently, of “Learning to Speak God From Scratch: Why Sacred Words Are Vanishing and How We Can Revive Them”.
Dear Friends,
“The revival in religion will be a rhetorical problem.” That’s an interesting thought. All this time, we’ve assumed the re-vival of our religion was a problem of being more welcoming, more visible in our community, more faithful to our tradi-tions. These things are also important, of course. But the point Merritt makes in his article is that, where we are in faith cannot be understood apart from knowing that we simply don’t talk about God as we once did. As Merritt puts it, “More than 70 percent of Americans identify as Christian, but you wouldn’t know it from listening to them. An overwhelm-ing majority of people say that they don’t feel comfortable speaking about faith, most of the time.”
Judging by my own experience, this isn’t really hard to under-stand. Nearly everyone in the churches I’ve served, myself included, has been profoundly uncomfortable with the idea of “Evangelism!” We shudder at the thought of being con-fused with those people who shove their faith down the
throats of others. We “don’t wear our faith on our sleeves.” We are “private” about what we believe. The problem is, it seems we are becoming so private about what we believe that, in practice, we are keeping it not only from strangers, but from other church members, friends and family, and even from ourselves.
Christianity, whatever else it may be, is a language. It is the words, stories, images, liturgy and theological ideas that we use to speak about God and our lives in relation to God. If someone were to ask us what we mean when we say we are Christian, we could not answer that question apart from the language of our faith. But just as any language will gradually die out if people stop speaking it, Christianity will fade away if those who call themselves Christian stop using the language of their faith to inform their lives. And when our language fades, the ideas the language embodies—justice, peace, love and forgiveness—become more challenging to practice. When our words become empty, they stop providing a moral framework for our lives.
Marcus Borg wrote an interesting little book a few years ago called, “Speaking Christian: Why Christian Words Have Lost Their Meaning and Power—And How They Can Be Restored.” I would recommend it to any of you who feel that your faith is more challenging than it used to be. Also, in the conversa-tion we are currently having about renewing our church, please bear in mind … we can’t expect to build our faith if, at a fundamental level, we can’t effectively speak about it our-selves. As Peter said in his New Testament letter, “Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you.” (First Peter 3:15, NRSV)
Yours in Grace, Rev. Kevin
Ripples &
The Church Offices will be closed Monday, November 12th in
observance of Veteran’s Day.
And also closed Thursday and Friday, November 22nd & 23rd for the
Thanksgiving Holiday!
I was very surprised yesterday, September 30, when I was pre-sented with a beautiful quilt with many of your names on it and made by church members. I actually knew the quilt was being made but I wasn’t expecting the meaningful presentation of it. Thank you to all who worked on it and all who signed it. Our church is just bursting with love. Love for each other and love for those in need in our community and in the world. I am so grateful to be part of FCC. I think I have mentioned before that Larry and I are on a quest to see all the historical markers that are around New Hamp-shire. There are 252 of them and so far we have seen 48. We have a list and also our dear friend, Dick Jarvis, gave us a book that tells about each marker. We stop and read each marker and Larry takes my picture at the marker and we will make an album with all the pictures. They are very interesting and the quest has taken us to places we have never seen. We also have found the experience to be quite comical. We use the GPS on the phone to find the markers, but sometimes the only address we have is, for example, “Route 104 South of Main Street”. Well, how far south of Main Street? Which side of Route 104? Needless to say we have gone quite far out of our way at times. Sometimes we have a hard time finding the marker because it is hidden by overgrown foliage and the green marker blends right in with the foliage. Last week we were looking for one in New Castle. It was anoth-er one of those with ambiguous directions. We went back and forth on one street three times. I was afraid the people in the mansions we were going by would think we were casing the places to see which one we wanted to rob. On our fourth time going down this same street we both spotted the marker at the same time and it was right by the side of the road in plain sight and we had gone by it three times. I’m thinking that God must sometimes feel like that marker did. There He is right in front of our eyes, telling us what to do, try-ing to lead us down the right path, and we don’t see or hear Him, and don’t pay attention to Him. He is right there in front of us, folks. Don’t be a Barb and Larry missing what is right in front of us. Look, listen, and pay attention. God is right there.
Barbara Papagian Director of Parish Care
Senior Moments Worship In November
Sunday, November 4th 10:00 AM Twenty-fourth Sunday After Pentecost
Member Recognition Sunday Communion in the Chapel
Barbara Kingsbury Memorial Service at 12PM ****************************
Sunday, November 11th 10:00 AM Twenty-fifth Sunday After Pentecost
Steven Cushing (Seafarer’s Mission) Leads Worship Service of Prayer and Healing
****************************
Sunday, November 18th 10:00 AM Twenty-sixth Sunday After Pentecost
Thanksgiving Sunday Baptism Service
ONA Celebration at 3PM *****************************
Sunday, November 25th 10:00 AM Season of Pentecost
Advent Family Workshop & Advent Tree
November Committee Meetings Announced
Sunday, November 4th 9AM—Nominating Committee Monday, November 5th 10AM—Senior Fellowship Board Monday, November 5th 6:30PM—Deacons’ Meeting Tuesday, November 6th 6:30PM—Stewardship & Membership Meetings Combined Sunday, November 11th 8:30AM—Outreach Committee Sunday, November 11th 9AM—Nominating Committee Sunday, November 11th 11:30AM—Teachers Meeting Sunday, November 11th 11:30AM—ONA Team Meeting Sunday, November 18th 9AM—Nominating Committee Sunday, November 18th 11:30AM—CYM Meeting Monday, November 19th 6:30PM—Church Trustees’ Tuesday, November 20th 6PM—Church Council Meeting
Prayer & Healing Service Sunday, November 11th
following worship service
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. The
service will be held in the Chapel following the 10AM worship service and fellowship, on the 2nd Sunday each month. We
hope you’ll come experience this very meaningful and meditative form of worship with us.
Book Club Meeting Sunday, November 11th at 11:30AM
The book for November’s book club meeting is “Lone Wolf” by Jodi Picoult.
Please sign up on the office window. All are welcome to join!
REMINDER! DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME ENDS SUN. NOVEMBER 4TH!
Fall Back! Remember to set your clocks back one hour on Saturday night, November 3rd,
before bedtime!
2019 Stewardship
Campaign
The 2019 Stewardship Campaign has kicked off! On the four Sundays in October we had recipients and members speak
during the Stewardship Moment about their hands-on experi-ences delivering God’s Work; and how everyone’s financial support, even if small, enables us to help those around us.
The Pledge Drive has been mailed, with a deadline to return your pledge by November 2nd. Blanks are by the boxes. We hope to have your continued generous support of the Church.
If you have any questions, please call Linda.
Messiah Concert Giving
Thanks so much to all who have given a financial contribution to our
upcoming Messiah performance. If you have the means and heart to donate to this event, we would greatly appreciate
it! If you planning to make a contribution, please submit it as soon as
you are able. This helps us to budget appropriately and accurately. Thank you for your generous gift
to this concert and to the music ministry of First Congregational Church. - Adam Peithmann, Music Director
Block Party on Hanover Street! There will be a Block Party Celebration on Hanover Street—between Union and Pine
Streets—on Saturday, November 24th from 4PM to 8PM. As a part of the community, FCC has been
invited to have a table at this event! “Family and Thanks” is the party theme. There will be a gumbo cook off and a pie
contest. Attendance is free but tickets will be required to get into closed-off areas, and food is a separate purchase as well.
For more details about this event, please email Block Party Coordinator, Robb Curry, at [email protected]
Are your Committee Meetings on the Calendar? Now that the fall season is here, our goal is to publish the
Calendar online at least 3 months out! Get your updates to Linda and Lauren ASAP! Email Linda at
[email protected] Lauren at [email protected]
Please check the bulletin board and the FCC homepage regularly! Thank you!
Mind, Body, Spirit Series: Getting Started with Genealogy Workshop with Kevin Finefrock!
Sunday, September 30th
News from First Congregational Church Historian, Janie Shaklee!
This is a lovely tinted photo of a time, long, long ago when our church was very green. Does
anybody have a date for when the ivy was removed? If so, please let
your dedicated archivist know. Contact me at:
SAVE THESE DATES! The Holidays are coming!
Sunday, November 25th Advent Workshop and Lunch
Sunday, December 2nd Handel’s Messiah, Part I, Concert
Sunday, December 16th Adam the Elf Party
Monday, December 24th Christmas Worship Services
Member Recognition Sunday! Sunday, November 4th During Worship
We are pleased to honor each of you as loyal members of First Congregational Church
Spirit of New Hampshire Awards Tuesday, November 13th at 7PM
The 16th Annual Spirit of NH Awards will be held at the Capitol Center for the Arts in
Concord. We will be honoring our very own Liz Verity, for all of her time and dedication to her community! All are welcome to
join as we celebrate Liz! Doors will open at 6:15PM.
The Brown Family during their son Adrian’s
baptism ceremony Sunday, October 14th
Make A Difference In Someone’s Life!
Volunteer with the HOME Team
Thank you to all member’s who have volunteered for our H.O.M.E projects this month, and we have been busy. As we look towards our Christmas Season, maybe you would consider volunteering for one of these rewarding opportunities. Take a look on the office window for sign up or contact Liz Verity for details 603-494-6785 or by email at [email protected].
At New Horizons our volunteers
enjoyed time together doing kitchen prep and serving evening meals twice a month. Yeah FCC volunteers !
Pictured to the left….Kathy Nelson, Liz Verity and Elizabeth Robertson, chopping peppers, one of the tasks we performed. New Horizons is streamlining their kitchen operation, so if you haven’t volunteered in a while you will see some very good changes. Dinner on the 18th was served to 148 guests! If you would like to help out at New Horizon’s with the FCC team; Join us on November 20th from 9 - 11am to do
Kitchen prep and on November 15th or 26th to help serve 4 -6pm evening meal.
Habitat for Humanity: FCC has a
covenantal ministry with the Greater Manchester Habitat chapter, contributing financial support and providing lunch once a month for Saturday volunteers. Go to www.habitatmanchester.org for more information. Volunteers help with light construction work at the latest build at 262 Lowell Street on any Saturday either 1/2 or full days. No experience required, but you may learn a new skill, and make new connections. The Habitat Restore (33 Canal Street) is open Wednesday and Saturday from 9-4 and Thursday from 12 - 6. Volunteers and donations are always welcome.
UpReach Riding Center: Our next date to
provide a meal during the next session is Wednesday, November 14th, look for details on the office window! Volunteers from FCC provide an evening meal during the 7-week program UpReach is running for kids and families “considered at risk”. The children spend time with the horses and work with counselors, on topics such as building confidence and self esteem. Parents also have the opportunity to participate and work with Counselors on coping and parenting skills.
Meal Train News!
“Happy are those who will feast in God’s Kingdom.” Luke 14:15
Chug a Chug a Choo Choo………… All aboard our Meal Train, which helps provide a connection between those who
receive a meal or special treat, and those who prepare and deliver.
THANK YOU! It’s inspiring to see our community working together to put smiles on many faces, both those who
prepare, and those who enjoy the special treats. Meal Train Volunteers have been busy in October providing friendship, connections, and caring between us all. Please let us know
if you are aware of anyone who would benefit from receiving a special treat, some soup & cookies, or maybe a meal. Our aim is to provide some extra TLC to our friends and members in times of need, whether they just need a little company or to know that they are in our thoughts.
Helping out with the meal train, can mean cooking a meal, soup or a treat such as cookies, brownies or other home-
made sweets, or delivering a meal package. If you would like to help out and have not yet done so, contact Liz or Peggy who will get in touch with you when the need arises. The beauty of having a good number of volunteers is that you
can always feel free to pass for another time. This month meals, soup & cookies were cooked and
delivered by Pam Leblanc, Betsy Gaston, Peggy Neveu, Joan Currier, Ann Brown and Kathy Nelson, BIG THANKS to these special ladies! Contact Peggy Neveu ([email protected] or 483-8388) or Liz Verity ([email protected] or 623-7461) to
suggest a name or add your name to the volunteer list. Only with your help can this project be successful!
H.O.M.E. Team Hands on Mission for Everyone!
MESSIAH Sunday, December 2nd at 4PM Handel’s “Messiah, Part I” and “Hallelujah
Chorus” Holst’s “Christmas Day” and Wilberg’s
“Wexford Carol” FCC Chancel Choir, FCC Sabbath Bells,
Community Singers, Orchestra and Soloists. Under the Direction of Adam
Peithmann, Director of Music Ministry This is a non-ticketed event. A free-will offering will be taken
to offset the cost of the concert. Any donation received in addition to our costs will go towards the Union Leader’s
Santa Fund. Childcare will be available.
During worship service on Sunday, October 14th
First Congregational Church celebrated the Elliot Hospital’s
Veteran’s Service Center Dedication of Richard Aldrich
Special Olympics Young Athletes program at FCC! We are hosting a FALL term of Young Athletes.
This is an innovative sports play program for children with and without disabilities ages 2 through 7, designed to provide
opportunities for young children to be active, have fun, and learn foundational sports skills. The program supports
physical, cognitive and social development — skills important on and off the sports field. It also offers families connections to
local Special Olympics Programs. The program is designed to address TWO specific levels of play.
Weekly practice sessions are ONE hour beginning at 5:30 pm and will start October 18th—and will run the following Thursdays: 11/1, 11/8, 11/15, 11/29, 12/6, and 12/13.
The Young Athletes program will be limited to 20 children maximum. There is no cost to your family for participating. You must pre-register by contacting Coach Bill Jones, so we have an
accurate count of how many children to expect. Direct any questions to Bill Jones,
Practice Coach at [email protected]
or by phone at 603-860-1236.
Quilt Raffle!
The Quilt Ministry will be raffling off three of the quilts to help fund future
quilting projects. The quilts will be displayed in the dining room during Fellowship through November 11th when the winners will be selected.
Raffle tickets are 1 for $5 or 3 for $10 and available through Pam, Peggy, and
Jeanine; or mail or drop off the completed ticket with your donation. We hope you'll stop by and take a chance to bring one of these beautiful handmade
quilts home!
Blessing of the Quilts Service Sunday, September 30th
Gratitude for Helping Hands Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the
soul and health to the body. Proverbs 16:24
The Quilt Ministry offers theses words of love and
compassion to those in our church family and greater community by the creating and giving of lap quilts.
Whether it is the joyous sacrament of baptism or in a time of crises or sorrow, the recipients of these quilts are
touched by the healing spirit of fellowship. Carolyn Wilson, Pam LeBlanc and their many dedicated
and talented quilters are the honeycombs of our congregation. Their quilts bring not only a sweetness to
the soul but a warmth and healing to the body.
During the Blessing of the Quilts Service on Sunday, September 30th, Barbara
Papagian was presented with a personalized quilt, lovingly
crafted by members of the FCC Quilt Ministry in honor of her Commissioning in the Ministry
of Pastoral Care.
GMCA Thanksgiving Service Monday, November 19th at 7PM
Blessed Sacrament Church 14 Elm Street, Manchester
This special Thanksgiving Service is sponsored by the Greater Manchester
Clergy Association (GMCA). All are invited to attend.
News from Outreach
Opportunities at Hallsville School
Last year several members of the congregation helped our Hallsville projects by delivering food and purchasing a few
coats. Several people have asked if there would be opportunities this year to participate. One way they can help is
with our coats and boots program. A letter has been sent to parents of Hallsville School children
informing them that we will provide coats and boots again this year for those children who are
without. We have purchased a significant number already using the remainder of the funds that the congregation raised last year at the fall auction.
The coats were on display during fellowship hour on Sunday, Oct. 21st. More are needed and if anyone would like to
subsidize our efforts by purchasing a coat or a pair of boots, there is a sign up sheet on the office window. The list will
remain up until Nov 4th, at which point the committee will purchase the remainder.
We are not doing food deliveries this year as we are negotiating with the school and a national organization called Blessings in a Backpack. This program provides children who do not have enough food at
home with meals that go home in their backpack every Friday while school is in session. The program has been very success-
ful in many schools around the country, including in New Hampshire. The committee has covenanted with the school to
sponsor 25 children. This will cost between $100 to about $150 per child for approximately 38 weekends. We are waiting to hear from the organization to complete the arrangements.
The school administration is excited about the program, as are we. Members can help in two ways. The first is to sponsor a child (or co-sponsor with one or more others) allowing us to
feed additional children. The other is to help with sorting and packing the meals when they arrive at the school - we
anticipate deliveries on a monthly basis. We will let you know the details as soon as they are finalized.
The committee is grateful to the congregation for providing us the funds for these projects through the annual budget and by
special events like the fall auction and the Palm Sunday breakfast. We are also extremely grateful to Digital Credit
Union whose check for $2500 appeared in our mailbox just when we were discussing whether we would have enough
money to carry out this program. - John Rowe, Outreach Committee Coordinator
PLEASE CONTINUE TO HELP US FILL THE FCC FOOD CLOSET!
THANKS TO ALL FOR THE FOOD CLOSET DONATIONS!
With the chilly days of fall here, our food closet becomes even
more important to the hungry in our community. These are particular items we currently need:
Thanks! - John and Kathy Rowe
boxed milk canned meats cereal canned fruit pasta and sauce canned pasta trail mix/cereal bars canned fruit Hormel “compleat- tuna soup meals” pudding packs rice crackers toiletries: toilet paper, soap, toothbrushes, shampoo
The Outreach Committee supported the NAACP Fundraising Banquet held on
Saturday, September 29th, purchasing two tickets and placing an advertisement
for First Congregational Church in the event program. Zane Knoy offered the prayer of Thanksgiving.
It’s Christmas Angel Tree Time!
The Outreach Committee is happy to announce that our Angel Tree will be set up and full of tags on Sunday Nov. 11th. Please
stop by the Angel Tree during coffee hour and grab a gift wish tag or two. All tags are marked with the place that gift will be supporting. The
Outreach Committee members will be down by the tree to help you fill out your tags and answer any questions. The gifts are due back on or before Sunday, December 9th. The gifts are to be wrapped or with a gift bag and placed back under the tree before the morning service. If you cannot make it back on a
Sunday morning you can drop your gift(s) off during the week in the church office.
This is a wonderful way to share the Christmas Holiday spirit with someone in need. The Outreach Committee thanks
you for being an angel this year!
Start thinking about ordering your Christmas Poinsettias!
It is almost that time of year again to order Poinsettias as a memorial or in honor of someone special. The plants cost $15.00
each, in your choice of red or white. Please look for the official order form to be placed in the Sunday News in November, the December edition of the Church Window and also, on the table outside the Sanctuary.
Help us create a beautiful altar this Christmas season while you celebrate the memory and honor of your loved ones.
Paint Night at “You’re Fired” Paint Studio in Bedford
Tuesday, November 13th 5-9PM We will be meeting at “You’re Fired” - We
tried to do this last spring and we were snowed out. Hopefully the weather will
hold out for us this time. Come and Paint-Your-Own Pottery. We will meet at the
studio any time between 5 & 6. Come when it is convenient for you. This is Ladies Night and the studio fee is $4.00 plus the price of the ceramic piece you chose to paint. We
are allowed to bring food which might be helpful for some that will be coming right from work. We have a limit of 15 people.
The sign up sheet is on the church office window.
The College Cookie Mailing/Cookie Swap Saturday, December 1st 9AM - Noon With a White Elephant Yankee Swap!
Attention College Student Parents! If you are a lucky parent of a college student and
would like them to enjoy home made cookies… E-mail, call or send in their college
address, even if living at home, to the church office by November 30. Just like all of
our events, all women are invited to attend. Three dozen cookies are needed by those who sign-up. There will be plenty of cookies to fill the college boxes and swap with each other. If you can’t make it but would like to contribute, donations such
as granola bars, cheese and crackers, candy, etc. are all appreciated. There is a signup sheet on the Church Office
window.
New Hampshire Conference United Church of Christ Women’s Spring Gathering—April 2019
Looking ahead… On Saturday April 27th, Women’s Connection will be hosting the New
Hampshire Conference United Church of Christ Women’s Spring Gathering. These
gatherings happen twice a year at different churches of different sizes around the state.
There has not been one in Manchester in many years. As well as using our beautiful church for this, our responsibilities are to provide morning coffee/tea and snacks/
muffins/fruit and to prepare a lunch for each attendee. We also have to plan the morning Communion worship service along with music. Barbara Papagian has graciously agreed to help with this and to officiate the service. We will need a large group of ladies to help with this event in all areas. If this is
something you would like to help with please sign-up on the church office window. Indicate what your preference is on the list. Please note we will be having a meeting in January to get
ourselves organized.
Women’s Connection News WC Apple Picking Outing at Mack’s Apples!
Sunday, October 14th Apple picking was delayed a day because of rain but it was worth the wait. The 7 of us went after church on the 14th. We decided to eat lunch at Panera’s before going to pick. Then we drove to Mack’s
Apples. It was a cool beautiful fall afternoon day. The pumpkins and apples
were plentiful. Now it’s time to make some apple crisp! After apple picking we
shared our mystery desserts that each of us brought. This is one more great idea someone suggested at the Kick Off. If you missed it maybe it will happen again next fall… Wait for it!!!!
Senior Fellowship Christmas Luncheon Tuesday, December 11th
Derryfield Restaurant ▪ 625 Mammoth Road Social Hour: 11AM—12 Noon
Lunch Served at 12 Noon
Entertainment will be Adam Peithmann, Director of Music, and soloist, Melissa Hughes providing cheerful holiday music!
Interfaith Women of New Hampshire: Stand Up and Stand out!
On Tuesday, October 4th 2018, Interfaith Women of New Hampshire presented “Stand Up and Stand
Out : Women of Faith in Our Time” The event was hosted by Gethsemane Lutheran Church of Manchester, and had an
attendance of over 120 women. The event shed light on the changing roles of women of faith in modern times regardless
of religion or religious denomination. Greater Manchester women presenters were Veronica Molloy, Roman Catholic;
Jean Dickson, Protestant; Masoma Athar, Muslim; and Mary Singer
with Rachel Spierer; Jewish. Highlighted female role models are
as follows: Mary Antona Ebo, FSM, African-American Catholic, a pioneer of civil rights, who identified as a voting “Negro Nun” during an interview at Selma. The Protestant Women’s Missionary Movement, Christian denomination women who stepped up to open doors for more active female Church roles. Tawakkol Karman, a Muslim female recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, 2011, for women’s civil rights accomplishments in Yemen. Debbie Friedman, a Jewish woman who transformed the sound and spirit of Jewish liturgical music. Networking took place over the refreshment time at the end of the evening and the refreshments were provided by the ladies of the Gethsemane Lutheran Church. A freewill offering was taken for New Horizons, Gethsemane’s chosen charity for the event.
Interfaith Women’s Winter Event will be on Dec. 3rd at St. Paul’s Methodist Church in Manchester—more details to come!
Children & Youth Ministries
ENA Holiday Dinner! Thursday, December 13th at 6PM
One of our traditions here at FCC is our English for New
Americans holiday dinner. We have the opportunity to extend our hospitality to the
students who take classes right here in our building. My heart and admiration goes out to these students
learning to live in a different land. Trying to understand not only the language but the way of life… everything for them is different. Establishing new customs and traditions takes time
and for the ENA students it is about understanding the deeper meanings of our North American holiday traditions,
and the blending of old customs with the new. As an Immigrant myself I can identify with how difficult this can be. So today I am asking for your help… The dinner this year will be the evening of Thursday, December 13th... we will need
helpers….friendly faces and food donations. The sign up sheet will be posted on the Office window
mid- November or contact me by email at [email protected]. Taking part in this evening is a rewarding experience and for
me it reminds me of all I have and all that these students have left behind. I am proud to be part of this Congregation and
always amazed at your generosity. Thank You!
Liz Verity, H.O.M.E Coordinator
“Painting with Pam” Youth Paint Night! Friday, October 12th
Thank you to everyone who helped make our youth group paint night a success! Our tweens and teens had a great time
with friends eating pizza and painting a spooky Halloween scene! It was a great night and we're looking forward to
another night out with friends in November! Be on the lookout for our next Youth Group activity!
Girl Scout’s Warm Coat Drive Through November 13th
The Girl Scout’s at FCC are collecting winter coats/jackets of any type and size for men, women and
children. They will have a donation box in the hallway outside the sanctuary where you may
place your donated coats. Thank you for supporting the Girl Scouts and our community!
Children’s Message Scripture Readers Wanted!
Kids of FCC! Sign up on the office window for Scripture Readers during the Children’s Message! Scriptures are generally short and easy to read. We
welcome readers of ALL ages! Be a part of the service and share your love for God with
the congregation!
Pip Adams gave the Children’s Talk with God during
Worship Service on Sunday, October 14th
Tween/Teen Book Swap! In the rec room you will find a wonderful
new bookshelf, modeled after FCC! Please take a moment to thank Mr. Leo
LeBlanc for building it! Our Church bookshelf will house chapter books for our tweens and teens to swap. If you have an age appropriate chapter book
(no picture books please!) that you’d like to donate to the swap, simply leave it on the bookshelf outside of the CE office in the rec room. Feel free to borrow any of
the books at any time! This is a great way for our youth to share with their
peers what they’ve read and enjoyed!
Advent Workshop! Sunday, November 25th It's that time of year again! On Sunday, November 25th, CYM will host it's annual Advent Workshop immediately following
worship. Our theme this year is Angels on the Tree! Everyone is welcome - we will have ornaments for every age and skill
level! After crafting ornaments to adorn our tree, we'll have a luncheon in the dining room then gather
in the sanctuary to decorate our tree and sing carols. We're looking for
helpers to be in charge of a decoration table (we can help you with ideas if you need it!). If you're interested in helping at anornament table please sign up on the office window. And if you plan on attending the luncheon please sign up
on the office window!
FCC Shirts for Sale! We have First Congregational Church printed
shirts to purchase in the church office! We have crew neck t-shirts ($15) in size youth small and medium, and adult; and women’s V-neck ($16). We also have a limited selection of sweatshirts
($10). Please come by the office to purchase. Or email Lauren at [email protected] or Linda at
[email protected] and we will set them aside for you to pick up!
Coming in 2019...
Death by Chocolate! A Murder Mystery Theater at
First Congregational Church Saturday, February 16th, 2019!
Due to scheduling conflicts this Fall, the murder mystery “Death by Chocolate” is happening as a “Valentine’s Day” event.
What goes better with Valentine’s Day than chocolate?!... Save the following dates:
Sunday, January 20th 11:30-12:30 - Information meeting for all thespians and thespian-wannabes, and helpers who would
like to join in the fun and excitement. Sunday, January 27th 11:30-1:00 pm - Rehearsal
(Snow date: Saturday, February 9th) Saturday, February 16th Rehearsal/Run through and evening
performance (Snow date Sunday, February 17th)
Knitting Challenge! We need your help! Last Thanksgiving and
Christmas, we gave away 90 handmade hat and mittens sets to children in Manchester. We cannot do this again without your help.
Please start now on one or more sets for children of all ages and genders. You may bring completed sets to the office or find me whenever. Knitting & Crocheting meets Tuesdays at
2:30 in the Parlor. Thank you for helping! JoAnn Ward
Pastor’s Class Tuesday afternoons at 1PM
with an evening class offered Wednesdays at 6PM until 11/14
This seven week series is discussing “The Great Divorce” by C.S. Lewis. Classes meet in the parlor and a sign up sheet is on the office
window. The last class this series is on Wednesday, November 14th, with the next
session to be announced soon.
Can you give Dave & Maggee Jespersen, along with their guide dogs, a ride to
church on Sunday? They will gladly leave the dogs at home if you prefer. There is a
sign-up sheet on the office window! Maggee also has an online ‘Care
Calendar’ that allows for friends to sign up to give rides to ap-pointments, which would be of great help to her. If you are
interested in offering rides, please contact Linda or Lauren in the church office and they will give you access to this online
calendar. Thank you so much for considering!
*DECEMBER CHURCH WINDOW DEADLINE* All articles are due on Friday, November 14th! Email Lauren at [email protected]
In September 2015, the First Congregational Church (FCC) Cabinet formed a team to begin the Open and Affirming
journey – And an interesting journey it was!! Over the next two years the team learned a lot about the process of
promoting a shared understanding of what it means to be a faithfully welcoming, inclusive, and affirming church.
The Council reaffirmed the role of the team in May 2016; and in November 2017 the FCC congregation voted affirmatively.
We were on our way to becoming an Open and Affirming Church! Now one year later, on November, 18, 2018, we hope
you will join us in our Open and Affirming Anniversary Celebration. The service will be at FCC beginning at 3:00pm
with a reception to follow. Please RSVP – FCC Church office: (603) 625-5093, or sign up on
the church office window! Please also check the office window for the many volunteer
opportunities to help facilitate this special event.
JOIN US AS WE
THE ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF OUR OPEN AND AFFIRMING VOTE!
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 18TH AT 3PM
Senior Fellowship Fall Luncheon!
Tuesday, October 9th
Aging Well with Qigong Class Fall Session Thursdays at 12:30PM thru November 15th!
Qigong, an ancient Chinese Medicine practice that integrates breathing
exercises, stretching, flowing movements and meditation, can help achieve those
goals. Joyce Palmer, a former FCC member, is now a certified Qigong teacher. Classes are 30 minutes long, and will be organized to allow for either seated (chairs always
provided) or standing practice. All fitness levels can be accommodated. No props or mats are needed. Just wear
comfortable clothes and footwear; some people will practice barefoot, others in socks, and others in sneakers – whatever
works best for you. Classes are not sequential in nature, so feel free to come when you can. First class is always free; after that
the cost is $5 per session. Classes take place in the Dining Room. There is a sign up sheet is on the Church Office Window
and all are welcome to join.
Please check the latest Church Directory to be sure we have your correct contact information!
Email any changes to Linda at [email protected]
Include if you prefer to receive the Church Window via an email attachment. Many thanks!
Usher Breakfast—Sunday, October 21st
Pastor-Parish Relations Committee Update
“The primary way to prepare for the unknown (in church life) is to attend to the quality of our relationships, to how well we know and trust one another...all while staying focused on our mission.” - Tod Bolsinger, Canoeing the Mountains
The Pastor-Parish Relations Committee continues to meet on an ongoing basis, providing a trusted channel for communication and feedback between Pastor Kevin and the congregation. Committee members have met with Pastor Kevin three times in 2018 - in March, May and October. Our next meeting will be in January 2019.
How does the Pastor-Parish Relations Committee support FCC’s Ministry of Spirituality? PPRC members seek to support the professional growth and well-being of Pastor Kevin, while also promoting the mutual ministry between the pastor and the congregation. The congregation is encouraged to provide positive feedback and issues of concern directly with Pastor Kevin. If congregants are unable to do this, they are encouraged to speak with PPRC members who will address matters with confidentiality. Please feel free to speak directly with Pastor Kevin or seek PPRC members with confidence that we all might work to enhance the effectiveness of the church’s mission.
Pastor Parish Relations Committee John Curtis, Chairperson, Grant Dugan, Bill Jones, and Carol Soucy
▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ What is a Pastoral Relations Committee?
The Pastoral Relations Committee is a standing committee in a local church that seeks to support and maintain an open and healthy relationship between the pastor and members of the congregation. The committee serves in two primary ways: as an advisory group to the pastor and as support for the pastor’s leadership. As an advisory group the committee shares ideas, dreams, hopes, expectations, and concerns of the congregation with the pastor. As support for the pastor, the committee interprets roles, functions, and needs of the pastor to the congregation. Constructive and caring communication in an atmosphere of confidentiality and trust is essential to the work of the committee. This committee is the congregation’s fundamental support group for the pastor. It builds the framework in which conflict can be dealt with creatively. Its goals are the professional growth and well-being of the pastor and the promotion of mutual ministry between the pastor and the congregation. The basic reason for sustaining open and healthy pastor-people relationships through the work of this committee is to enhance the effectiveness of the church’s mission. The nurture of the pastor by this committee not only brings about a wholesome and healthy congregation but also creates a climate in which the spiritual life and mission of the people are strengthened. Serious attention to the dynamics of the relationship between pastor and congregation can result in a local church able to carry out its ministry effectively. The Pastoral Relations Committee is concerned with each staff member’s well-being, the entire staff’s relationship with the congregation, and the fostering of healthy relationships among staff members.
N o v e m b e r
Thursday, November 1st 12:30 PM Qigong Class 5:30 PM Special Olympics Young Athletes program Friday, November 2nd No Church Activities Scheduled Saturday, November 3rd No Church Activities Scheduled Sunday, November 4th—Member Recognition Sunday 9:00 AM Nominating Committee 10:00 AM Worship Service & Church School 11:30 AM Communion Service in the Chapel 11:30 AM Peace Ringers Hand Bell Choir 12:00 PM Memorial Celebration for Barbara Kingsbury Monday, November 5th 10:00 AM Senior Fellowship Board Meeting 6:30 PM Deacons’ Meeting Tuesday, November 6th 10:00 AM Staff Meeting 1:00 PM Pastor’s Class 2:30 PM Knitting & Crocheting Group 6:30 PM Stewardship & Membership Meetings Combined Wednesday, November 7th 6:00 PM Pastor’s Class 6:30 PM Sabbath Bells 7:30 PM Chancel Choir 8:00 PM Messiah Rehearsal Thursday, November 8th 12:30 PM Qigong Class 5:30 PM Special Olympics Young Athletes program Friday, November 9th No Church Activities Scheduled Saturday, November 10th No Church Activities Scheduled Sunday, November 11th—Steven Cushing Leads Worship 8:30 AM Outreach Committee Meeting 9:00 AM Nominating Committee 10:00 AM Worship Service & Church School 11:30 AM Book Club 11:30 AM Service of Prayer and Healing 11:30 AM Peace Ringers Hand Bell Choir 11:30 AM ONA Committee Meeting 11:30 AM Teachers Meeting Monday, November 12th No Church Activities Scheduled Tuesday, November 13th 10:00 AM Staff Meeting 1:00 PM Pastor’s Class 2:30 PM Knitting & Crocheting Group 5:00 PM Women’s Connection Paint Night at “You’re Fired” 7:00 PM Spirit of New Hampshire Awards
Wednesday, November 14th 5:00 PM UpReach Volunteer Evening Meal 6:00 PM Pastor’s Class 6:30 PM Sabbath Bells 7:30 PM Chancel Choir 8:00 PM Messiah Rehearsal Thursday, November 15th 12:30 PM Qigong Class—Last Class 4:00 PM New Horizons Food Serve 5:30 PM Special Olympics Young Athletes Friday, November 16th No Church Activities Scheduled Saturday, November 17th No Church Activities Scheduled Sunday, November 18th—Thanksgiving Sunday 9:00 AM Nominating Committee 10:00 AM Worship Service, Baptism Service & Church School 11:30 AM CYM Meeting 11:30 AM Peace Ringers Hand Bell Choir 3:00 PM Open & Affirming Celebration Monday, November 19th 6:30 PM Church Trustees’ Meeting Tuesday, November 20th 9:00 AM New Horizons Food Prep 10:00 AM Staff Meeting 2:30 PM Knitting & Crocheting Group 6:00 PM Church Council Meeting Wednesday, November 21st 6:30 PM Sabbath Bells 7:30 PM Chancel Choir Thursday, November 22nd Church Office Closed for Thanksgiving Holiday Friday, November 23rd Church Office Closed for Thanksgiving Holiday Saturday, November 24th 4:00 PM Hanover St Block Party Sunday, November 25th—Advent Family Workshop Sunday 10:00 AM Worship Service & Church School 11:30 AM Advent Workshop Monday, November 26th 4:00 PM New Horizons Food Serve Tuesday, November 27th 10:00 AM Staff Meeting 2:30 PM Knitting & Crocheting Group Wednesday, November 28th 9:00 AM FOOS to Prepare Church Window 6:30 PM Sabbath Bells 7:30 PM Chancel Choir 8:00 PM Messiah Rehearsal Thursday, November 29th 5:30 PM Special Olympics Young Athletes program Friday, November 30th No Church Activities Scheduled
This Month at FCC Activities, dates and times are subject to change
Please refer to the printed calendars by the office, or go to www.fccmanchesternh.org
First Congregational Church
508 Union Street Manchester, NH 03104-4890
Non-Profit Organ. U.S. POSTAGE
PAID Manchester, NH Permit No. 6230
Time Dated Mater ia l -
Please Del iver Immediate ly!
Rev. Kevin Pleas Senior Pastor
The November 2018 Church Window
Our monthly newsletter
(603) 625-5093 (with voice mail) (603) 622-1511
FAX: (603) 625-9107
www.fccmanchesternh.org
www.facebook.com/FCCManchester Also stay current by visiting FCC online at www.fccmanchesternh.org
DON’T FORGET… Autumn weather and events encourage more walking downtown...
Don’t forget to lock your car and roll up your windows!
Sunday Worship 10:00 AM
Church School at 10:15 AM after Time with God
