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 Dec. 1 on your calendar, and come join the fun!

The mission of First Church is to engage and support people in worship, learning, fellowship, and service, so that all may find in our community the Spirit of the living Christ.  We are 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.