Singers from First Church, directed by Shari Lucas, sang the National Anthem in 4-part harmony at the Rock Cats baseball game in New Britain in August 2009.  From church, 60 people attended and we had a great time.  And the Rock Cats won!

First Church hikers at the "Coginchaug Cave"

Verses two and three of the beautiful song "We Are One in the Spirit" outline the ways that we may become one: "We will walk with each other/ We will walk hand in hand" and "We will work with each other/ We will work side by side." Fellowship and friendships spring from shared interests and shared responsibilities. Many friendly relationships are begun while cleaning the coffee pots or team-teaching a group of lively six- and seven-year-olds.

Some of our favorite ways of building relationships with us are:

• Hikes and Canoe trips

• Mardi Gras Cajun supper, silent movie, and jazz concert

• Working on the annual Holly Fair in early December

• Annual Goods and Services Auction

• Educational programs related to community outreach

• Second Hour programs and discussions of current events

• Service projects such as Habitat for Humanity, meals at St. Vincent DePaul Place, visits with boys at the Connecticut Juvenile Training School

"Holly Fair"

The annual Holly Fair mixes work with pleasure, both on the day of the Fair (always the first Saturday in December) and in the weeks leading up to it. Booths include:

• Holiday greens (wreaths and centerpieces)

• Antiques & collectibles

• Homemade candies and fudge

• Gourmet lunch

• Soups-to-go

• Linens & lace

• Books

• Jewelry

• Cookie walk

• Handcrafts & holiday ornaments

• Baked goods

Gift baskets, a new item in 1997, was wildly popular with the children and young people who contributed items to create themed baskets such as gardening, cat and dog care, and chocolate lover's delight. This year, mark the first Saturday of December on your calendar, and come join the fun!