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By Senior Pastor
Rev. Kevin Pleas
“We proclaim and celebrate God’s love for people of all ages, all races and ethnic backgrounds, all mental and physical abilities, all socioeconomic backgrounds, all sexual orientations, all gender identities and gender expressions, and all other diverse attributes that are woven into the fabric of humankind.”
—From our FCC Open and Affirming Covenant
Dear Friends,
A few years ago, I remember trying to start a conversation with my church in Maine about racial justice. Let’s just say it didn’t gain any traction. When I brought up, at one of our meetings, what was then the new phrase, “Black Lives Matter,” the immediate reaction I got was an angry retort: “All Lives Matter!” The tone of voice made it clear that the particular conversation I had in mind was going nowhere. And indeed, we went on to less sensitive topics. The conversation about racial justice never did come up again, at least not in my tenure.
It is true, of course, that all lives matter, at least in the theoretical world of our Christian theology. But it is also true, indisputably, that we live in a culture in which it is taken for granted that some lives matter a great deal more than others: the rich more than the poor, men more than women, straight people more than gay people, and, perhaps especially, white people more than non-white people. To assert that Black Lives Matter is not to say that they matter more than anyone else. Rather, it is to affirm that they do not matter less. It is to object to a system that builds in and reinforces white privilege; a system that actively strives to disenfranchise minority voices and minority votes; a system that has for too long allowed people in authority to abuse their power and get away with it. As anxiety producing as they may be, the
protests currently going on across our country are long overdue, and I very much hope they lead to some significant changes.
A couple of days ago, my good friend and colleague, Barbara, sent me an advance copy of the letter she wrote for this issue of our Window Newsletter. She wanted to know how I felt about it, not wanting to send out something I might not support. It’s a good letter, passionate and honest. I told her she should expect to get some push back for it, but that I trusted her judgment and would support her. After some reflection, I’d like to say that my response didn’t go far enough. Not only do I support what Barbara has written, I agree with her and I applaud her for her courage and forthrightness. I agree not only with what she has said, but with the anger that has driven her to say it.
For far too long, the systemic injustice of our culture has been allowed to continue because people like me, white people, benefit from it. The system works for me. I am not harassed by the police. I am not discriminated against. I am not disenfranchised, I have a multitude of opportunities, should I choose to use them. When people of color have complained about injustice, I have allowed myself to believe it was not my fight. But it is. So long as people of color fight for justice by themselves, justice is not going to happen. In the years since the Civil Rights Movement, it has become clear that justice can make little headway against forces that actively suppresses minority voices and power, that actively fan the flames of racial hatred for the sake of gaining and holding high office.
Our theology does indeed claim that “all lives matter.” But if that rosy ideal is ever to become a credible reality, it will be because white people have finally gotten angry enough to stand up and be counted with their non-white brothers and sisters. Perhaps that time is now. Perhaps enough has finally become enough. I invite you all to join me in finally having that long-delayed conversation about racial justice. I will be happy to publish any and all responses you feel moved to send back to me on this subject. It might just be that, even while we are still socially distancing, we can meaningfully participate in some much needed change.
Yours in Grace, Rev. Kevin
Ripples &
July & August 2020
I would be remiss if I do not weigh in on the horrendous and disturbing death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. I do not know all the circumstances that led up to this murder, but I do know that whatever George did, it did not warrant a policeman killing him, and killing him in such a tortuous way. I don’t know what it is like to be a black person in America, but it certainly upsets me when I hear black people saying they fear a policeman pulling them over when they are driving. As whites, we fear we are going to get a fine, or lose our license…blacks fear that they will be shot and maybe killed. Black mothers and wives don’t know when their children and husbands leave the house if they will be abused, bullied, or worse, shot or killed. Those things happen to whites, also, but not on the same scale. Should we be color blind? I don’t think so. Black people have a unique heritage that should be honored and respected. However, when it comes to the law, everyone should be treated equally: EVERYONE. I don’t think we should defund police departments, but I do think that someone with a history like the killer of George Floyd should have been fired a long time ago. There are far better and respectful policemen and women than bad ones. They put their lives on the line whenever they go out on a call, from domestic disputes to loud parties. You cannot blame whole police departments for the actions of a few. I think it is good that the black communities are organizing peaceful walks and vigils. It is good for them to get their feelings out and call for reform. It is unfortunate that these peaceful demonstrations have been an excuse for those not so peaceful people to be destructive. I don’t know which mayor it was who talked at one of these vigils and encouraged blacks to run for local and state offices. Run for the senate, or even president. Barak Obama did. Just as I am appalled at the actions of the police against George Floyd, I am also appalled at the actions of the mob who took over a section of a city, forcing out the police from that section. I am not going to comment at length on the media’s part in all of this, but I think they need some changes also. Where is God in all of this? God is with the family of George Floyd. God is with the peaceful marchers giving them words to express their feelings and hurts. God’s Holy Spirit is trying to reach into all of us to encourage us to reach out to our community and support everyone from the homeless to the police officers. From the grocery clerks to the judges. Kindness from all of us to all people. That is what God asks of us. Barbara Papagian, Director of Parish Care
Senior Moments
▪ Summer Committee Meetings Announced ▪
Please Note: Meeting dates/times listed are tentative.
Committee Chairs will contact you regarding invitations to
ZOOM online meetings/conference calls.
▪ Mon. July 13th 6PM—Stewardship Zoom Meeting ▪ Mon. August 3rd 10AM—Senior Fellowship Board
▪ Mon. August 31st 6:30 PM—Deacons’ Meeting
Have a meeting coming up that you don’t see here? Call the office and we will add it to the calendar!
The Reverend Kevin Pleas hosts the “9:10 Morning Watch”
on our Facebook book page at www.Facebook.com/
FCCManchester
This morning prayer service meets online, Monday through
Thursday at 9:10 AM. Please tune in and join us!
Join Us for the 9:10 Morning Watch
Weekdays Mon—Thurs
ONLINE WORSHIP SERVICES Until service at church resumes, please join Adam
and the Rev. Kevin on FACEBOOK LIVE Sunday Mornings at 9:30AM as they offer a live Hymn Sing
and the worship service on our Facebook page!
Also, join us for the 9:10 Morning Watch Prayer Service at 9:10 AM, Mon-Thursday.
Music text for Sunday and an outline of the service is posted on the website
www.FCCManchesterNH.org under “Sunday Bulletins”.
TO FIND OUR FACEBOOK PAGE GO DIRECTLY TO: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/FCCMANCHESTER
Book/Bible Study with Barbara Papagian
Held Fridays at 9:15 AM on Zoom
This ongoing online book group is hosted by Barbara Papagian. It
meets on Friday mornings at 9:15 AM. Please reach out to Barbara to find out more about this
special gathering or receive an official “Zoom” invitation to join in. Barbara’s email is [email protected] and
her office number is 603-625-5093 x23.
Children & Youth Ministries
Sunday school had a successful end to the year through remote learning
lessons! The children received lessons each
week to do with their families at home. We are continuing with fun
activities and mini lessons throughout the summer. Each Sunday children will receive a short video to watch along with some conversation starter questions, an activity and some worksheets. If you are not receiving these activities and would like to (maybe to share with your grandchildren or nieces and nephews!!), contact
Kelda York at [email protected]. We hope that you have a happy and healthy summer and we hope to see you
soon! Kelda York, Children’s Ministry Coordinator
__________________________________________
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
ANNOUNCED!!!
Hello FCC Families! The CYM committee is SO excited to announce that FCC will host a Virtual VBS this summer! July 27 – 31 we will be having a virtual VBS with videos and some Facebook
Lives (depending on family availability). We will be doing the Orange: Focus: Take a Closer Look.
This may be a different VBS than what you are used to but we will
make it happen, nevertheless. Your kids will get to
dive deeper into their faith by putting the FOCUS on God and his amazing plan for us! This VBS is
available for pre-k through pre-teens. The memory verse and FOCUS for this VBS is
“Let us keep looking to Jesus. He is the one who started this journey of faith. And he is the one who completes the journey
of faith.” Hebrews 12:2A Families who are interested in participating will be given a VBS
packet with activities and instructions on how to have their very own VBS virtual experience. We will be supplementing
this with videos, Facebook Lives and maybe some Google Meet Ups.
If you are interested in participating in the FCC Virtual VBS this summer, please
contact Kelda York at [email protected]
Happy Summer!
Selma Naccach-Hoff Retires after a very successful
45-year long career in teaching! Congratulations, Selma!
Prayers through email and calls…. For a call, email, or Rev. Kevin’s IN THE SPIRIT blog, email him at
[email protected]. Or call the office. Keep in touch with Barbara at
Does your committee have a meeting coming up?
Please let us know if your committee will be meeting remotely in the coming weeks/months. We would like to keep everyone informed! We publish dates on our website and newsletters.
Email Linda at [email protected] or Lauren Henderson at [email protected]
Memory Garden Update In recognition that the Memory Garden is a special place where we invite people to enjoy the tranquil space and God’s gifts of
nature, we are placing a granite marker in the garden. The marker will read:
“ Welcome to the Memory Garden Created in the year of our Lord 2015”
First Congregational Church The marker will be placed in the front of the garden to be
easily viewed from those walking by, with the monies coming from the Memory Garden fund.
To honor those whose memory you treasure with a monetary donation, you can send a check to First Congregational Church with
the “Memory Garden fund” in the memo line. Should you wish to
honor a loved one by your donation, please specify their
name which will be recorded in the Memory Book.
Scholarships Presented on Sunday, June 7, 2020
The Scholarship Committee is pleased to announce the Church Scholarships for 2020. Funding for our scholarships this year is possible because of the William P. McGuiness Scholarship Award, the Virginia Smith Scholarship bequest, and the Gordon P. Woolner Scholarship Bequest. We are very pleased to make these awards. John Thornton John Thornton will receive the William McGuiness award from a fund set up by Phi Kappa for deserving high school male students and the Virginia Smith bequest that is established for Church scholarships for graduating high school seniors. John has attended the Manchester School of Technology where he has participated in Red Hand Day, served on the Interact Committee and on the Student Council. Here at church he has helped as a cub scout and boy scout to serve at the ice cream socials and work at Palm Sunday breakfasts. He has also helped at Teacher Appreciation breakfasts and ENA Thanksgiving Dinners. He has been a member of the youth choir. John will attend Manchester Community College in the fall. He plans to work in a garage on all MOPAR cars - preferably Fiat-Chrysler- Dodge and Jeep vehicles and one day own a home and start a family in the countryside teaching his family the lessons of God.. Congratulations, John! We have four students who are continuing their education and will receive The Higher Education Award. All of these students are members of our church and were active participants in the life of our church in a variety of ways while they attended here. The Higher Education Award is given to students who have graduated from high school who are continuing their education, whether or not they have received a Church Scholarship in the past. The intent of this award is to support our church members as they continue to pursue their education either at college un-dergraduate or post graduate level or in pursuit of certificates in job training programs.
Jennifer Irving receives the Higher Education Award. Jennifer now lives in Boston where she attends Old South Church on Sun days and participates in a weekly Bible study. She continues her membership here and stays in touch with the Women’s Connection Book Club. She works full time as a paralegal in the Immigration section at Mintz in Boston. Jennifer is accepted and planning to attend Suffolk Law School full time after leaving her current job at the end of the summer.
Abby Curtis receives the Higher Education Award. While at our church, she participated in the Handbell Choir, and the Chancel Choir. She helped with Vacation Bible School and Church School. She has just completed her undergraduate degree in Piano Pedagogy and will continue toward her Master’s degree in Piano Pedagogy at the University of Southern Maine where she currently attends. Emma Green receives the Higher Education Award. Emma is currently working on an Associates Degree for Liberal Arts at Manchester Community College. She worked at the café at Barnes and Noble since March of 2019 until it closed due to the Covid 19 virus pandemic. She hopes to continue to complete her degree assuming an increased number of courses. Margaret (Maggie) Thornton receives the Higher Education Award. Maggie is a junior in college at Norwich University. She is now majoring in Exercise Science and Health Studies. She is also working on her Crossfit Level 1 certification, nutrition certification and personal trainer license. She volunteers at nursing homes, the Big Brother, Big Sister program called Buddy Up at Norwich, the Drill Team and Shock Platoon, and the Army ROTC program. Congratulations to all of you!!! We wish you all the very best. The Scholarship Committee Peter Perich Dawn Gagnon Lucia Carlisle Ellie Stetson
2020 FCC SCHOLARSHIPS ANNOUNCED
John Thornton 2020 William P McGuiness & Virginia Smith Award
My time at First Congregational Church has lasted as long as I can remember. I remember the different activities that were always available for at the church, from singing in the Youth Choir to learning about working together in Cub Scouts, my church family has helped shape me into the person that I am, and it was through the church that I was first introduced to God. It was through this relationship that I would learn just how difficult life can get without Him. When I would experience hardship, I would do what my others have done through time, I would ask God why He has treated me this way, and I believed that He had wronged me. After a long time of thinking that the world was against me, that God had cast me out, He sent me a message. I still to this day do not understand what the message was, but I awoke one day with an understanding that I was not alone.
After thinking I was alone for so long, I knew that the next step was to learn the lessons of God. I read the Bible from front to back as often as I could, understanding that I was not the only one in time that had believed God had rejected me, but also that He had helped many people that had felt this way and had not given up on them. I then believed that He had given me a
chance through all this time that I had pushed Him away, it was time for me to grow and to learn how to make it so He never thought it had been a mistake.
Whether it was helping people when they needed it, or taking the time to learn an important lesson somewhere in the Bible, I started to not only rekindle the relationship I had formed with God, but to strengthen it. As I come into adulthood, the next step for me to teach these lessons, to anyone that will listen that is lost, as I was. I firmly believe that throughout my life, God will send people to me that seek guidance, and while I may not be the most intelligent man on the planet, I know the answer God wants me to give them. I will live the life I have been given, and will continue to change and learn new lessons as I grow older. I know that God will continue to watch over me, and I will use His guidance to teach people that same lessons he taught me.
Jennifer Irving, May 2020 Higher Education Award Scholarship Essay
As I look forward to starting law school and a new phase of my life’s journey, I am especially grateful for my upbringing at First Congregational Church. I grew up knowing that there is a God who loves me, created me with purpose, and calls me to “do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly” (Micah 6:8). FCC taught me to love and care for my community, from learning about global hunger and fasting with the Youth Group during 30 Hour Famine, to afternoons spent building a home alongside Liz Verity and Zane Knoy with Habitat for Humanity. From an early age, my faith taught me the importance of striving to make the world a better place.
FCC introduced me to Passport Camp, where I discovered an interest in travel and learning about other cultures. The church even supported my first trip outside of the United States to participate in a cultural exchange program with Passport in Nairobi, Kenya. These experiences broadened my worldview, and helped a timid teenager grow into a brave world traveler. I’ve since completed my Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from Wheaton College, which included travel to Tanzania and Morocco; and completed a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship in Malaysia. My travels and life experiences have left me awestruck by the beauty of God’s creation and helped
me develop an appreciation for the diversity of His people.
Amidst the fun and beauty of travel and life, I have also seen again and again that the world is full of injustice. In my travels, I witnessed the beauty of the Sahara desert at sunset and the welcoming embrace of strangers who became family; and I also came face-to-face with racism, extreme poverty, and lack of opportunity. I know that these injustices exist in my own community as well. After some searching and lots of prayer, I believe that God is calling me to combat injustice, be it large or small, by earning a J.D. and working as an attorney.
It was in the Youth Room at FCC where I first heard Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s quote that “injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” I believe that earning a J.D. and working as an attorney will enable me to live into the values learned in my religious upbringing and, in some small way, work to create a more just and Christ-like world.
ESSAYS CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE...
2020 FCC SCHOLARSHIP ESSAYS
Abby Curtis 2020 Higher Education Award
Through my college experience, I have gained immense amounts of confidence. Accomplishing everything I had to do for my undergrad helped me realize how much I am capable of. Something that I really struggled with in high school was my self-esteem. Finding my passion and working towards a career in piano raised my self-confidence.
My foundation from FCC has affected my career most definitely. If it weren’t for the many performance opportunities I received at FCC, I might not have come to the realization that music is the path for me. Between Ken Grinnell and Adam Peithmann, I have been blessed with music directors who saw my potential and encouraged me to become the musician I am today. I plan to continue in the fall with my schooling to get a master’s degree in Piano Pedagogy, the same as my undergraduate
degree. I want to keep pursuing my education in piano by continuing lessons with my piano instructor and learning more about teaching the piano myself. Through my job at 317 Main Community Music Center, I’ve gained lots of experience teaching younger beginning students. At this moment, I have a lack of experience to teaching more advanced students. Through my graduate degree, I want to focus on building my knowledge and confidence in teaching more advanced students.
I want to continue working at 317 Main, but one day I hope to open my own private piano studio. Through receiving my graduate degree, my chances of succeeding with my own business are higher. I will have more experience, education, and reputability. The FCC Higher Education Award will greatly help me in my plans for the future, short and long term.
Emma Green 2020 Higher Education Award
I am currently attending Manchester Community College. I am in the Liberal Arts program and I plan to go into teaching. I have become more mature during my time in school. Not only was I taking challenging classes, but I was working on top of it. I never had a job in high school, so balancing work and school was a new experience for me this last year.
When I taught Sunday School at FCC throughout high school, I realized that I really enjoyed teaching. It was a great starting point for me for getting to know what teaching is like. I learned what it was like to run a classroom and interact with the kids.
I am planning on enrolling in the teaching program at MCC so I can earn my teaching certificate. As for what I would like to teach, I’m still not quite sure. I enjoy many different subjects so it will be a hard decision when the time comes that I have to choose. I am still going to be working, so I’ll continue to learn how to balance both work and school.
Ideally, I’ll get my degree in education and become a high school teacher. Again, I’m not quite sure what I want to teach. Possibly history or psychology. FCC is the place where I found what I wanted to do in life, and I’ll be forever grateful for the opportunity to teach Sunday School.
Margaret Thornton 2020 Higher Education Award
Since arriving at Norwich University in Fall 2018, I have pursued the goal of becoming an officer in the United States Army with all intent and purpose. My studies at Norwich have evolved to grow along with me; as a freshman, I was a Biochemistry undergraduate, with a minor in mathematics. This past October, I realized that my passion was changing, and moving away from medicinal synthesis that Biochemistry professionals do.
I had always wanted to help people, a desire fostered by the incredible Sunday School teachers I had as a kid. At the time, I’m sure the older teenagers and adults weren’t aware of the profound impact they had on us. Growing up in the church, I was constantly surrounded by supportive people who I could be sure they had my best interests at heart. Even if I didn’t appreciate some of the moms yelling at me and the others while we ran around in the Rec Room, these were important lessons that I learned while following my path through life.
The interactions I had with church members fostered my deep desire to help people. I wanted to have that one- on- one experience with individuals and be available to provide assistance and guidance whenever it was needed. In the middle of the Fall 2019 semester, I made the easy choice and the difficult major switch to Exercise Science, with a minor in health and mathematics. With this major, I will be able to commission
into the US Army helping soldiers work back to full health and also to achieve their goals, both physically and mentally.
While this will be my career path, I am still a student at Norwich, and I will be graduating in 2022. In January, I was offered an incredible opportunity by the university to help other students. LEAP stands for leadership, education, advocacy, and prevention, and is the office that deals with domestic violence and sexual abuse, assaults, and stalking. This past spring, my job was to be a confidential reporter and an advocate for students going through such hardships. Many times, students ask to go to the on- campus chapel, or for me to pray with them. I will forever be thankful that my Sunday school teachers taught me how to be supportive. They, along with the other church members, taught me how to love unconditionally, and to always hold other’s best interests at heart. Thanks to FCC, I was able to help people come to terms with what happened to them, and often, they were able to recover and become the strong, empowered people they are now.
I am so grateful to the church for helping me be the person I am
today. In the future, I hope to
continue helping others and
growing their faith, while also
growing in mine.
Would you like to add your cellphone number to the Church Directory listing?
Please email Linda [email protected]
HOLLY BERRY CHRISTMAS FAIR! Saturday, November 21st
The Holly Berry Christmas Fair is continuing to make progress. Some people are doing some cleaning out and finding a lot of great items to put in our “Attic Treasures”!
However, we are not collecting these items just yet. So if you have something, just keep it marked Holly Berry Christmas Fair and we will let you know when and where to put them.
We are always looking for people who can sew, paint, knit, crochet or anything else you would like to do. Just contact Peggy Neveu [email protected] or Pam LeBlanc [email protected].
Please see below for a couple of new sample items!
WHAT CAN YOU FIND ON
OUR WEBSITE?
Sunday’s Bulletin
Sunday News
Church Newsletters
Hymn Sing Text
Link to Facebook
Announcements
Events
Committee Information
Sermons
Music
Videos
Photos
Contact Information
Church Policies
WWW.FCCMANCHESTER
*Pledges & Donations* Thank you for continuing to mail in your pledges—it’s ok to consolidate a month. You can also send via your own bank’s Bill Pay, or go to Vanco via our website. Call Linda if you need help.
SAVE THE DATE: OCTOBER 20TH, 2020 *SENIOR FELLOWSHIP FALL LUNCHEON*
(60th anniversary event rescheduled from May)
HELP US KEEP THE CHURCH DIRECTORY CURRENT! Please check your directory at home to be sure we have the
most current contact information for you. Please call the church office to make changes (625-5093). Thank you!
Samples of Fair items are shown courtesy of Pam & Leo LeBlanc
and Bill Jones REVERSIBLE APRON
*Guest Preacher, Barbara Papagian*
Sunday, July 12th following The Peithmann’s Hymn Sing at 9:30 AM
We are excited that Barbara Papagian will lead worship for us live on the FCC Facebook page:
www.Facebook.com/FCCManchester Catch Rev. Stephen Cushing’s sermon under Videos
You do not need a Facebook Account to view any of our services or filmed events on Facebook. Just enter the address into your web browser and scroll down!
Do you knit? Do you crochet?
If you regularly donate to FCC’s knitting ministry, thank you.
We are keeping busy knitting our normal projects to meet the need for the coming winter and
beyond so we can donate abundantly to the Holly Berry Christmas Fair. Anything that does not sell will start us on next
year’s supply. Small projects are great during the warm weather. I invite everyone to make hat and mittens sets for the
children of our Thanksgiving Basket and Angel Tree families. We will need them in a variety of sizes. Make adult hats for the residents of the Manchester Mental Health facilities found on
our Angel Tree. Balaclavas (helmets) and close fitting watch caps donated to the New England Seafarers Mission provide
really warm garments for the seafarers who have to work outside at sea in all weather. Making adult scarves for
Manchester’s homeless and preemie hats for Project 10,000 are more good choices. Whatever our world situation this
coming winter, it will be cold and people will need help to keep warm. Although not included in the Fair donations because
they are not for sale, the Prayer Shawl Ministry is an important part of our work. I have patterns for full and pocket size prayer
shawls. Contact me for help in making or receiving a shawl. — JoAnn Ward
Children’s Sunday Chapel Altar
June 7th, 2020
All our community volunteer activities, as you know, are currently suspended, but as soon as we are able to start
up any of them we will be sure to let you know. As the Meal Train is not able to operate the way we usually do, Peggy and I are connecting by notes and phone calls with those members of our FCC community we usually serve, and adding
soups, cookies and muffins to those who come to the Food Closet for assistance.
Here are some of comments people have sent to us!
We try to let people know they are on our minds and in our hearts at
this different time.
If you know of someone in particular who could use a note or a phone call please let us know, and we will try to make that
connection happen. Peggy and I would also encourage YOU to reach out to someone with a note or phone call, it does make
a difference! Thank you to our volunteers who have made soup, baked cookies and muffins. We will also try to continue to provide a
meal for those people and families where it would be helpful in times of hardship and we will be guided in that by Rev. Pleas and Barbara Papagian. As we all regroup and learn to deal with our Covid-19 world, I hope this update
finds you and those that you love, safe and well.
The rainbow through this cloud is knowing that when it is safe and comfortable to do so, we will gather together at First
Church. What a celebration that will be! — Liz Verity
News from the HOME Team:
We are united in striving to know the will of God as taught in the Holy Scriptures, and in our purpose to walk in the ways of
the Lord, made known or to be made known to us. - Excerpt from the FCC Church Covenant -
The Open and Affirming Committee held a Zoom meeting in late May. A major agenda item focused on how we might live
out the FCC and ONA Covenants, and extend God’s welcome to all people during these unprecedented and unsettling times of
separation.
During our meeting, we shared how blessed we feel by the ongoing efforts of Pastor Kevin, Barbara, Adam, and others.
We are grateful for various groups that are actively supporting and connecting with others, such as the Meal Train and Women’s Connection. ONA Committee members will be working on ways of increasing socialization among our
community of faith. We miss socializing at Coffee Hour and at in-person meetings with our church family and know that
many of you do too. We hope to walk in the ways of the Lord and extend and support congregational connections and care.
Please contact Carol Soucy (668-2078 or 591-6387) and/or other members of the committee if you have questions,
concerns, or suggestions about how we can foster and support congregational connections.
Other Committee News The Queen City Pride NH Festival has been rescheduled for
Saturday, September 12th and will be held at Arms Park. Our committee made a donation and will once again
volunteer and host a booth at the event.
The NHCUCC Mission Group has adjusted plans for a statewide Open and Affirming event. They will host a Zoom
Conference in January 2021, with a guest speaker, a panel discussion, and more. Look for more news about this event in upcoming editions of the Church Window.
Open and Affirming Committee Bruce Attridge, Stephen Bearse, Jeanine Finefrock,
Jeffrey Frye, Karen Hawver, John Rowe, Kathy Rowe, Bridget Thornton, and Carol Soucy, Chair
Outreach Committee Launches PROJECT CD!
Most members of our congregation have access to Facebook and the worship and music programs provided there by the
Reverend Pleas and Adam Peithmann, and they have inspired many of us. For those who
don't have easy access to the internet it is more difficult and can make them feel more isolated. The
Outreach Committee at the request of the Church Council is conducting a project to provide CD's of the worship services to
them. CD's will be made and distributed so that no one who wants to listen to them will be unable to do so. If someone does not have a CD player, there are a limited number of
players available that can be loaned out to them. If you would like to be a part of this project or know
someone who would, please contact John or Kathy Rowe at [email protected]. Thank you!
News from Outreach Open & Affirming Committee News!
Summer 2020
We have been busy getting ready for the anticipated reopening of our church this fall.
The Staff Kitchen has a new look!
* * * * * *
Sokhom & Larry gave the staff kitchen a
facelift with fresh and bold new colors on the
wall and cabinets.
PLEASE NOTE: THERE
WILL NOT BE AN
ALL CHURCH PICNIC
SCHEDULED FOR
SEPTEMBER 13TH
Church Council has decided to postpone this event for now but stayed tuned for
updates to come!
The Stained Glass
Renovation is nearly complete!
* * * * * *
Our windows have been cleaned and resealed!
Finishing touches will be done in the next couple
of months.
* J e w e l r y M a k i n g w i t h T e r r i ! * Thursday, August 20th at 1PM
The first event happening back at FCC is the Women’s
Connection Jewelry Event with Terri Pattee that was
postponed from March. This will be held on August 20th at 1:00 PM in the dining room of the church. Class size will be
limited with $5.00 to $10 charge depending on the bracelet. Money will be collected in class. Email Pam LeBlanc to sign up
for this event ([email protected])
The large tables will be set up around the room with only 1 or 2 ladies per table. The tables are 8ft long so everyone will be
seated well within the 6 foot distance. There will be gloves and masks available
for those who don’t bring their own. Terri Pattee and Pam LeBlanc have put a
lot of thought into this event and are making it very safe but also understand
if the ladies don’t feel comfortable attending.
WC ANNUAL MYSTERY RIDE! Keep Saturday, September 26th marked on your
calendar for the MYSTERY RIDE! More info will be coming in the next Church Window.
Remember all women young and seasoned are invited to attend all the events that happen
throughout the year! If anyone has ideas for new and exciting opportunities just let Pam LeBlanc or
Denise Beaurivage know.
The Bon Appetit Cookbook cooking contest has come to
a close! We had five ladies to enter with their
delicious recipes: Melissa Poisson, Barbara Papagian, Carol Soucy, Jeanine Finefrock and Terri Pattee. The prize is $10.00 off the next
WC event of choice! The names were placed in a hat and the one that popped out was
Jeanine! Congratulations, Jeanine!!!
*Melissa Poisson*: Blueberry Muffins- Recipe by Pam LeBlanc. Melissa says:
They are sooo good! The boys loved them.
*Barbara Papagian*: Maple Pecan Chicken from Fran Hasting’s recipe. Barbara says: It
was delicious and I will make it again!
*Carol Soucy*: Microwave Stuffed
Pepper Cups - from Pam LeBlanc. Carol added her own flair to the recipe using what she had on hand. She used red,
yellow and orange peppers, along with Mexican rice and white rice. She added
salsa and pepper Jack cheese to three with Mexican rice and tomato sauce and cheese to the other three. Carol says:
Everyone enjoyed them. They were so good she brought two to her Mother-in-law for dinner that night.
*Jeanine Finefrock*: Spaghetti Bake - Recipe by Pam LeBlanc. Jeanine says: It smells delicious and it made a large
enough amount for a crowd.
*Terri Pattee*: Blueberry Muffins- from Pam LeBlanc. Terri says: Very
Yummy.
Women’s Connection News
The Women’s Connection Mission Statement: The Women’s Connection offers opportunities for the women and friends of First Congregational church to experience social
time together, to build connections and to strengthen friendships. We seek to encourage and support one another as we journey through life together at every season in our lives. All adult women are welcome to join us for whatever event interests them. Our activities are varied and have included
outings, crafts, spiritual reflections, hiking and volunteering in the local community…something for everyone.
J U LY
Thursday, July 2nd No Church Activities Scheduled Friday, July 3rd Church Office Closed for July 4th Holiday Saturday, July 4th No Church Activities Scheduled Sunday, July 5th—Guest Preacher, The Rev. Stephen Cushing 9:30 AM Hymn Sing followed by Worship Service on Facebook Monday, July 6th No Church Activities Scheduled Tuesday, July 7th No Church Activities Scheduled Wednesday, July 8th 9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer Service Thursday, July 9th 9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer Service Friday, July 10th 9:15 AM Book/Bible Study w/Barbara Papagian on Zoom 6:00 PM Friday Night Piano w/ Adam Peithmann on Facebook Saturday, July 11th No Church Activities Scheduled Sunday, July 12th—Barbara Papagian Leads Worship 9:30 AM Hymn Sing followed by Worship Service on Facebook Monday, July 13th 9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer Service 6:00 PM Stewardship Zoom Meeting Tuesday, July 14th 9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer Service Wednesday, July 15th 9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer Service Thursday, July 16th 9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer Service Friday, July 17th 9:15 AM Book/Bible Study w/Barbara Papagian on Zoom 6:00 PM Friday Night Piano w/Adam Peithmann on Facebook Saturday, July 18th No Church Activities Scheduled Sunday, July 19th 9:30 AM Hymn Sing followed by Worship Service on Facebook Monday, July 20th 9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer Service Tuesday, July 21st 9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer Service Wednesday, July 22nd 9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer Service Thursday, July 23rd 9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer Service Friday, July 24th 9:15 AM Book/Bible Study w/Barbara Papagian on Zoom 6:00 PM Friday Night Piano w/ Adam Peithmann on Facebook Saturday, July 25th No Church Activities Scheduled Sunday, July 26th 9:30 AM Hymn Sing followed by Worship Service on Facebook Monday, July 27th 9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer ServiceTuesday, July 28th 9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer Service Wednesday, July 29th 9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer Service Thursday, July 30th
9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer Service Friday, July 31st 9:15 AM Book/Bible Study w/Barbara Papagian on Zoom 6:00 PM Friday Night Piano w/ Adam Peithmann on Facebook
A U G U S T Saturday, August 1st No Church Activities Scheduled Sunday, August 2nd 9:30 AM Hymn Sing followed by Worship Service on Facebook Monday, August 3rd 10:00 AM Senior Fellowship Board Meeting Tuesday, August 4th No Church Activities Scheduled Wednesday, August 5th No Church Activities Scheduled Thursday, August 6th No Church Activities Scheduled Friday, August 7th 6:00 PM Friday Night Piano w/Adam Peithmann on Facebook Saturday, August 8th No Church Activities Scheduled Sunday, August 9th 9:30 AM Hymn Sing followed by Worship Service on Facebook Monday, August 10th No Church Activities Scheduled Tuesday, August 11th No Church Activities Scheduled Wednesday, August 12th No Church Activities Scheduled Thursday, August 13th No Church Activities Scheduled Friday, August 14th 6:00 PM Friday Night Piano w/Adam Peithmann on Facebook Saturday, August 15th No Church Activities Scheduled Sunday, August 16th 9:30 AM Hymn Sing followed by Worship Service on Facebook Monday, August 17th No Church Activities Scheduled Tuesday, August 18th 9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer Service Wednesday, August 19th 9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer Service Thursday, August 20th 9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer Service Friday, August 21st 6:00 PM Friday Night Piano w/Adam Peithmann on Facebook Saturday, August 22nd No Church Activities Scheduled Sunday, August 23rd 9:30 AM Hymn Sing followed by Worship Service on Facebook Monday, August 24th 9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer ServiceTuesday, August 25th 9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer Service Wednesday, August 26th 9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer Service Thursday, August 27th 9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer Service Friday, August 28th No Church Activities Scheduled Saturday, August 29th No Church Activities Scheduled Sunday, August 30th 9:30 AM Hymn Sing followed by Worship Service on Facebook Monday, August 31st 9:10 AM “9:10 Morning Watch” Facebook Live Prayer Service 6:30 PM Deacons’ Meeting
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
The July & August 2020
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
PLEASE NOTE THAT WORSHIP SERVICES ARE ON FACEBOOK & CHURCH MEETINGS ARE ON ZOOM UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
ANY OF THE UPCOMING EVENT DATES LISTED IN THIS NEWSLETTER ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
THE CHURCH OFFICE & FOOD CLOSET ARE OPEN, BUT PLEASE CALL AHEAD. PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR THE MOST UPDATED INFORMATION:
WWW.FCCManchesterNH.ORG
Rev. Kevin Pleas Senior Pastor
Time Dated Mater ia l -
Please Del iver Immediate ly!
First Congregational Church
508 Union Street Manchester, NH 03104-4890
Non-Profit Organ. U.S. POSTAGE
PAID Manchester, NH Permit No. 6230
FRIDAY NIGHTS AT FCC!
Looking to end the week on a high note? Every Friday evening at 6PM Adam Peithmann will perform 20 to 30 minute mini recitals from the Chapel (or Sanctuary) at FCC on Facebook
Live. Come and hear your favorite hymns arranged in a variety of styles plus classical
standards. We hope to see you there!
The FCC Church
Window is also
available to view anytime IN COLOR at our website!
FCCManchesterNH.org
