Thursday, January 27, 2011

Sunday at First Church: Snow or No Snow

First Church of Christ,
Congregational

190 Court Street
Middletown, CT


First Church lore has it that services have been held every single Sunday since the congregation first gathered when Middletown was settled by the English in 1650. That's what we're told when we trek in, shivering and shedding snow and moisture on a stormy Sunday morning when only a handful of the faithful show up. It makes one feel like a pioneer, a trailblazer, and a part of history, however modest.

The most challenging Sunday weather-wise was in mid-March about 8 years ago, when 24 inches of snow fell overnight and 12 determined worshipers trudged to the doors of 190 Court Street. That was our lowest attendance on a Sunday in recent memory.

Sometimes that's what it's all about: just showing up, snow or no snow. For those who come this Sunday, we have some favorite hymns lined up, and you can count of a lot of human warmth, tasty refreshments, and an opportunity to share joys and concerns with a wider community. Of course, we will be discussing John Hall's recent announcement that, after 21 years as the Senior Minister of First Church, he will conclude his ministry at the end of June this year.

Come visit and share the warmth of First Church this Sunday. There will undoubtedly be snow.

___________
First Church provides child care on Sundays, and parking is available on Court Street and in the surrounding neighborhood, between the ever-increasing piles of snow.

First Church is an Open and Affirming Church: All are welcome into the full life of our community regardless of their race, age, gender, nationality, marital status, economic situation, mental or physical ability, or sexual orientation. No matter where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome. Come visit and see. We won't bore you. We won't talk down to you. We will love you and respect your intelligence. We will give you tools to help you deepen and pursue your spiritual path.

2 comments:

Jen Alexander said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Jen Alexander said...

I remember that big snow! About half of my family walked to South Church, and Mary Klaaren sat on the steps in front of the altar, and the entire congregation consisted of about 6 of us in the front row (I remember John Basinger was there!). I think one of my kids did the reading....