News

Annual Meeting – Sunday, February 15th – Plan to Attend!

The annual meeting of the First Congregational Church is scheduled for this Sunday, February 15th with a snow date of Sunday, February 22nd. This meeting is open to all members and friends of the church. You do not need to be a member of the church to attend and speak, only to vote. (If you are interested in becoming a member, please see Pastor Doug.) This annual business meeting is a wonderful opportunity to get to know your church better. Past and future activities of boards and committees are discussed as well as reviewing and approving our 2026 budget. This year, a delicious lunch will be provided by Jaclyn & Eric von Bleicken (our thanks to them!!).

Please remember to bring a copy of the annual report that was emailed out last week, to the meeting. If you are unable to print, there will be a few paper copies available.

Questions regarding the annual meeting? See Parish Board members, Pastor Doug or Clerk, Terry Hall.

We hope to see you all there!

Ash Wednesday Services

A couple of weeks ago I sent out the following message regarding Ash Wednesday and a time here at church to receive ashes. Here is the part of that message with details: On the First Sunday of Lent, February 22, immediately following our regular worship service, we will invite whoever would like to stay for a short service of imposition of ashes (likely 10 minutes or so) to come to the front of the church.  We will share a brief responsive litany and reading, and then impose ashes on those who wish to do so. I will offer the option of placing ashes on one’s forehead, or on the back of one’s hand, as many churches did during COVID.  We will still be offering this opportunity on Sunday, February 22.

Since that notice went out, we have been invited by Pastor Sandy at George Whitefield United Methodist Church here in town to participate in a “drop in” Ash Wednesday time of reflection and prayer from 2-5 p.m. at the George Whitefield UMC. Here is the introduction to that service that Pastor Sandy used last year and will use again this year: “This service uses Visio Divina (Latin for “divine seeing”) and a written reflection. Visio Divina is a method of praying with art or visual images. Please enjoy the images from the Hubble telescope as you contemplate God and God’s love for us and use the written meditation as you choose. You may sit and pray and (if you wish) come forward to receive the anointment of ashes whenever the Spirit moves you. The symbol will be in the shape of a cross, and you can choose to have it placed on your forehead or on your hand.”

Bible Study

I would like to do a six-week study using Professor Amy-Jill Levine’s book Sermon on the Mount: A Beginner’s Guide to the Kingdom of Heaven, beginning on Wednesday, April 8 and meeting on Wednesdays a 5 or 5:15 and lasting until 6:15 or 6:30 p.m. when we will still have plenty of daylight.  If we order books as a group, we will not have to pay shipping and they will likely cost $13.50-$14 each.  If this study sounds like something in which you would be interested , please e-mail me (djwnscaa@gmail.com) or text me (913-387-9947) and let me know if you would like to be part of a group book order or rather order your book individually.

Prayer Requests

Please continue to keep Dave and Joan Fitzgerald in prayer as Joan continues in hospice care at home.

Please also continue to keep Jim and Ellen both in prayer.

Pastor Doug’s Office Hours:

For the month of February and March, I will be changing my office hours to Fridays from 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon and 1:00-2:00 p.m.  Wednesday hours will be by appointment, and I can be available by appointment on other days by calling my mobile phone at 913/387-9947.

Snow Cancellations:

We will make decisions about snow cancellations by 8:30 and if we decide the safest decision is to cancel the service we will send out an e-mail message announcing the cancellation.  If you would prefer to receive a telephone call regarding such cancellations, please let Karen Murphy know.

Sharing Cupboard Needs:

The Sharing Cupboard always needs mayo, mustard, ketchup, canned carrots, cookies, crackers cereal and coffee. Thanks to the wonderful community outreach, our shelves are well stocked with other items. Please leave all donations in the donation box at the church entry.  Thank you.

Brookfield Farmer’s Market

Did you know?

….Our church is host to a fabulous farmer’s market each Wednesday afternoon from 3 – 6 in our Fellowship Hall!

Some of the fresh and delicious fare at the market include a wide variety of mushrooms, micro greens, fresh eggs, incredible bread, beautiful bulbs and flowers, a plethora of vegetables, fresh baked goodies, imported coffee, kombucha, honey, maple syrup, ice cream, grass-fed meat, hand-crafted jewelry, wooden bowls and cutting boards and even more!  Stop in sometime and enjoy one of West Brookfield’s hidden treasures! (Hidden right inside of our church!)

(Time is running out to shop the market – Last one is Wednesday, March 25th!)

 Meetings this Week

Friday 13th – Open and Affirming Committee

Sunday 15th – Annual Meeting

Special Open and Affirming Panel Discussion – Thank you for joining us!

The Open and Affirming discussion that was held last Sunday provided powerful testimonies and stimulating conversation for all who were there. The committee would like to thank all who attended and shared their questions and thoughts.  We continue to be open to questions and comments from all members and friends of the church. Our future plans will be announced soon.

It was wonderful to have you all there.

Your Open and Affirming Committee

Upcoming Worship Services

As a result of having to cancel two consecutive Sunday worship services, we will be adjusting the service content for the first three Sundays of February:

February 8 – A worship service using the bulletin that would have been used on January 25th; communion will be postponed until February 15

February 15 – Transfiguration Sunday, the final Sunday before the beginning of Lent; this service will include communion.

Dismas Farm Dinner

Dinner will be at the church this Tuesday, February 10th at 6.00 PM.

Please email Deanna or Angela with whatever you would like to bring!  Thank you for your help!

Deanna Randall – 413-436-7849 or drandall444@comcast.net

Angela Carville – 508-347-1148 or angelacarville67@gmail.co

Announcements from Pastor Doug

I have had long discussions with several groups regarding a possible Ash Wednesday service.  The suggestion of holding the service at 5 p.m. sounded good until we remembered that we have the winter farmers’ market in the building from 3-6 p.m. on Wednesdays.  No other time seemed to work well for our congregation at this time of year, so we have come up with a creative plan that we hope may be meaningful for a number of folks.  On the First Sunday of Lent, February 22, immediately following our regular worship service, we will invite whoever would like to stay for a short service of imposition of ashes (likely 10 minutes or so) to come to the front of the church.  We will share a brief responsive litany and reading, and then impose ashes on those who wish to do so. I will offer the option of placing ashes on one’s forehead, or on the back of one’s hand, as many churches did during COVID.  Lent and Easter come very early this year, so we are hoping that this option will be helpful in this winter of snow and icy roads.

I have also been discussing the logistics of a possible Bible study group for our church in the near future.  Once again, finding a good time in Lent has been exceptionally difficult.  Several folks suggested that we wait until after Easter, when the weather is warmer and we have longer times of daylight.  I would like to do a six-week study using Professor Amy-Jill Levine’s book Sermon on the Mount: A Beginner’s Guide to the Kingdom of Heaven, beginning on Wednesday, April 8 and meeting on Wednesdays a 5 or 5:15 and lasting until 6:15 or 6:30 p.m. when we will still have plenty of daylight.  If we order books as a group, we will not have to pay shipping and they will likely cost $13.50-$14 each.  If this study sounds like something in which you would be interested , please e-mail me (djwnscaa@gmail.com) or text me (913-387-9947) and let me know if you would like to be part of a group book order or rather order your book individually.

Prayer Requests

Please continue to keep Dave and Joan Fitzgerald in prayer as Joan continues in hospice care at home.

Jim Haynes has once again been transferred from the rehab facility to Baystate Hospital in Springfield to be treated for a likely infection.  Please keep Jim and Ellen both in prayer.

Pastor Doug’s Office Hours:

For the month of February and March, I will be changing my office hours to Fridays from 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon and 1:00-2:00 p.m.  Wednesday hours will be by appointment, and I can be available by appointment on other days by calling my mobile phone at 913/387-9947.

Annual Meeting – Sunday, March 15th – Plan to Attend! (A Few Desserts Requested)

The annual meeting of the First Congregational Church is scheduled for Sunday, February 15th with a snow date of Sunday, February 22nd. This meeting is open to all members and friends of the church. You do not need to be a member of the church to attend and speak, only to vote. (If you are interested in becoming a member, please see Pastor Doug.) This annual business meeting is a wonderful opportunity to get to know your church better. Past and future activities of boards and committees are discussed as well as reviewing and approving our 2026 budget. This year, a delicious lunch will be provided by Jaclyn & Eric von Bleicken (our thanks to them!!). A few desserts are requested.

Please let Terry Hall know if you would like to bring a dessert to share so that we don’t have too many.

Questions regarding the annual meeting? See Parish Board members, Pastor Doug or Clerk, Terry Hall.

We hope to see you all there!

Snow Cancellations:

We will make decisions about snow cancellations by 8:30 and if we decide the safest decision is to cancel the service we will send out an e-mail message announcing the cancellation.  If you would prefer to receive a telephone call regarding such cancellations, please let Karen Murphy know.

Sharing Cupboard Needs:

The Sharing Cupboard always needs mayo, mustard, ketchup, canned carrots, cookies, crackers cereal and coffee. Thanks to the wonderful community outreach, our shelves are well stocked with other items. Please leave all donations in the donation box at the church entry.  Thank you.

Brookfield Farmer’s Market

Did you know?

….Our church is host to a fabulous farmer’s market each Wednesday afternoon from 3 – 6 in our Fellowship Hall!

Some of the fresh and delicious fare at the market include a wide variety of mushrooms, micro greens, fresh eggs, incredible bread, beautiful bulbs and flowers, a plethora of vegetables, fresh baked goodies, imported coffee, kombucha, honey, maple syrup, ice cream, grass-fed meat, hand-crafted jewelry, wooden bowls and cutting boards and even more!  Stop in sometime and enjoy one of West Brookfield’s hidden treasures! (Hidden right inside of our church!)

(Time is running out to shop the market – Last one is Wednesday, March 25th!)

Have a wonderful weekend.

Bonni Holmes
Church Secretary

Special Open and Affirming Panel Discussion – RESCHEDULED FOR THIS SUNDAY! February 1st!

Due to the snowstorm last week and the cancellation of church, our ONA panel discussion has been rescheduled for Sunday, February 1, following our worship service.

Please note: Communion has been moved to Sunday, February 15th due to this change.

Please join your Open and Affirming Committee members as they present an informal panel discussion where they will share why they are on the Open and Affirming Committee, why it is important to them and why they believe that our church should proclaim itself an open, affirming and welcoming church. This discussion will begin during coffee time, so plan to grab a bite, a drink, a chair and join the discussion. All are strongly encouraged to attend, to bring questions and your comments.

Upcoming Worship Services

As a result of having to cancel two consecutive Sunday worship services, we will be adjusting the service content for the first three Sundays of February:

February 1 – A Service of Inclusivity related to the process of becoming an Open and Affirming congregation, followed by a panel discussion in conjunction with coffee hour (originally scheduled for January 18); Choir will sing during the offering time.

February 8 – A worship service using the bulletin that would have been used on January 25th; communion will be postponed until February 15

February 15 – Transfiguration Sunday, the final Sunday before the beginning of Lent; this service will include communion.

Announcements from Pastor Doug

I have had long discussions with several groups regarding a possible Ash Wednesday service.  The suggestion of holding the service at 5 p.m. sounded good until we remembered that we have the winter farmers’ market in the building from 3-6 p.m. on Wednesdays.  No other time seemed to work well for our congregation at this time of year, so we have come up with a creative plan that we hope may be meaningful for a number of folks.  On the First Sunday of Lent, February 22, immediately following our regular worship service, we will invite whoever would like to stay for a short service of imposition of ashes (likely 10 minutes or so) to come to the front of the church.  We will share a brief responsive litany and reading, and then impose ashes on those who wish to do so. I will offer the option of placing ashes on one’s forehead, or on the back of one’s hand, as many churches did during COVID.  Lent and Easter come very early this year, so we are hoping that this option will be helpful in this winter of snow and icy roads.

I have also been discussing the logistics of a possible Bible study group for our church in the near future.  Once again, finding a good time in Lent has been exceptionally difficult.  Several folks suggested that we wait until after Easter, when the weather is warmer and we have longer times of daylight.  I would like to do a six-week study using Professor Amy-Jill Levine’s book Sermon on the Mount: A Beginner’s Guide to the Kingdom of Heaven, beginning on Wednesday, April 8 and meeting on Wednesdays a 5 or 5:15 and lasting until 6:15 or 6:30 p.m. when we will still have plenty of daylight.  If we order books as a group, we will not have to pay shipping and they will likely cost $13.50-$14 each.  If this study sounds like something in which you would be interested , please e-mail me (djwnscaa@gmail.com) or text me (913-387-9947) and let me know if you would like to be part of a group book order or rather order your book individually.

Pastor Doug’s Office Hours:

Friday, January 30^th  – 9:30am – 12:30pm

Wednesday, February 4^th  – 12:30pm – 3:00pm

Friday, February 6^th  – 9:30am – 12:30pm

Please feel free to call me at 913-387-9947 if you need to schedule other times to meet.

Snow Cancellations:

We will make decisions about snow cancellations by 8:30 and if we decide the safest decision is to cancel the service we will send out an e-mail message announcing the cancellation.  If you would prefer to receive a telephone call regarding such cancellations, please let Karen Murphy know.

Sharing Cupboard Needs:

The Sharing Cupboard always needs mayo, mustard, ketchup, canned carrots, cookies, crackers cereal and coffee. Thanks to the wonderful community outreach, our shelves are well stocked with other items. Please leave all donations in the donation box at the church entry.  Thank you.

1. Brookfield Farmer’s Market

Did you know?

….Our church is host to a fabulous farmer’s market each Wednesday afternoon from 3 – 6 in our Fellowship Hall!

Some of the fresh and delicious fare at the market include a wide variety of mushrooms, micro greens, fresh eggs, incredible bread, beautiful bulbs and flowers, a plethora of vegetables, fresh baked goodies, imported coffee, kombucha, honey, maple syrup, ice cream, grass-fed meat, hand-crafted jewelry, wooden bowls and cutting boards and even more!  Stop in sometime and enjoy one of West Brookfield’s hidden treasures! (Hidden right inside of our church!)

Special Open and Affirming Panel Discussion – RESCHEDULED FOR SUNDAY! February 1st!

Due to the snowstorm last week and the cancellation of church, our ONA panel discussion has been rescheduled for Sunday, February 1, following our worship service. Please note: Communion has been moved to Sunday, February 8th due to this change. Please join your Open and Affirming Committee members as they present an informal panel discussion where they will share why they are on the Open and Affirming Committee, why it is important to them and why they believe that our church should proclaim itself an open, affirming and welcoming church. This discussion will begin during coffee time, so plan to grab a bite, a drink, a chair and join the discussion. All are strongly encouraged to attend, to bring questions and your comments.

Announcements from Pastor Doug

• Thanks to everyone for their patience with our adaptations to this winter’s crazy weather! This past Sunday’s cancellation of our worship service also forced the postponement of our post-church Open and Affirming committee panel discussion to February 1.  Because the worship service preceding that discussion was already planned, we will move our February communion to the February 8 worship service.  The choir will still be singing on February 1, and they will have a beautiful selection to enhance our worship that day.
• There is snow forecast for this Sunday, January 25, but the latest reports are that the snow will not begin until noon. If we have learned anything this winter it is that predicting the precise arrival of storms is difficult, so we will be keeping watch to see if that snow will impact our service this week.
• I have had long discussions with several groups regarding a possible Ash Wednesday service. The suggestion of holding the service at 5 p.m. sounded good until we remembered that we have the winter farmers’ market in the building from 3-6 p.m. on Wednesdays.  No other time seemed to work well for our congregation at this time of year, so we have come up with a creative plan that we hope may be meaningful for a number of folks.  On the First Sunday of Lent, February 22, immediately following our regular worship service, we will invite whoever would like to stay for a short service of imposition of ashes (likely 10 minutes or so) to come to the front of the church.  We will share a brief responsive litany and reading, and then impose ashes on those who wish to do so. I will offer the option of placing ashes on one’s forehead, or on the back of one’s hand, as many churches did during COVID.  Lent and Easter come very early this year, so we are hoping that this option will be helpful in this winter of snow and icy roads.
• I have also been discussing the logistics of a possible Bible study group for our church in the near future. Once again, finding a good time in Lent has been exceptionally difficult.  Several folks suggested that we wait until after Easter, when the weather is warmer and we have longer times of daylight.  I would like to do a six-week study using Professor Amy-Jill Levine’s book Sermon on the Mount: A Beginner’s Guide to the Kingdom of Heaven, beginning on Wednesday, April 8 and meeting on Wednesdays a 5 or 5:15 and lasting until 6:15 or 6:30 p.m. when we will still have plenty of daylight.  If we order books as a group, we will not have to pay shipping and they will likely cost $13.50-$14 each.  If this study sounds like something in which you would be interested , please e-mail me (djwnscaa@gmail.com) or text me (913-387-9947) and let me know if you would like to be part of a group book order or rather order your book individually.

Pastor Doug’s Office Hours:

Friday, January 23^rd  – 9:30am – 12:30pm

Wednesday, January 28^th  – 12:30pm – 3:00pm

Friday, January 30^th  – 9:30am – 12:30pm

Please feel free to call me at 913-387-9947 if you need to schedule other times to meet.

Snow Cancellations:

We will make decisions about snow cancellations by 8:30 and if we decide the safest decision is to cancel the service we will send out an e-mail message announcing the cancellation.  If you would prefer to receive a telephone call regarding such cancellations, please let Karen Murphy know.

Sharing Cupboard Needs:

The Sharing Cupboard always needs mayo, mustard, ketchup, canned carrots, cookies, crackers cereal and coffee. Thanks to the wonderful community outreach, our shelves are well stocked with other items. Please leave all donations in the donation box at the church entry.  Thank you.

1. Brookfield Farmer’s Market

Did you know?

….Our church is host to a fabulous farmer’s market each Wednesday afternoon from 3 – 6 in our Fellowship Hall!

Some of the fresh and delicious fare at the market include a wide variety of mushrooms, micro greens, fresh eggs, incredible bread, beautiful bulbs and flowers, a plethora of vegetables, fresh baked goodies, imported coffee, kombucha, honey, maple syrup, ice cream, grass-fed meat, hand-crafted jewelry, wooden bowls and cutting boards and even more!  Stop in sometime and enjoy one of West Brookfield’s hidden treasures! (Hidden right inside of our church!)

Meetings This Week

Sunday, January  25th

Board of Deacons

DEADLINE

Please submit your articles for Glad Tidings by Monday, January 26^th

Have a wonderful weekend.

Bonni Holmes
Church Secretary

Pastor Doug’s Office Hours:

Friday, January 16^th – 9:30am – 12:30pm

Wednesday, January 21^st  – No office hours

Friday, January 23^rd  – No office hours

Wednesday, January 28^th  – 12:30pm – 3:00pm

Friday, January 30^th  – 9:30am – 12:30pm

Please feel free to call me at 913-387-9947 if you need to schedule other times to meet.

Bob Jackman’s Funeral & Visiting hours:

Bob Jackman’s funeral service will be at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 17, at the church, and will be followed by a light luncheon in the fellowship hall.

Visiting hours have been finalized and will be Friday the 16th at Varnum and Charbonneau Funeral Home, from 4-6 p.m. Please continue to keep Pat and family in prayer this week.

From Karen Murphy:

There will be a light lunch reception at the church after the service on Saturday. If anyone would like to contribute something, please contact me at 508-801-7692 or kmurphy718@charter.net.

Special Open and Affirming Panel Discussion – THIS SUNDAY! January 18th

Please join your Open and Affirming Committee members as they present an informal panel discussion where they will share why they are on the Open and Affirming Committee, why it is important to them and why they believe that our church should proclaim itself an open, affirming and welcoming church. This discussion will begin during coffee time, so plan to grab a bite, a drink, a chair and join them. All are strongly encouraged to attend, to bring questions and your comments.

Sunday January 25^th:

On Sunday, January 25th Rev. Julie Olmsted will join us while Pastor Doug is away. Some of you may remember Julie from last year when she joined us as our guest minister for a few Sundays.  Julie has recently written a book, and will be sharing a few pages with us after worship in the sanctuary for those who would like to hear about it. Please join her in the sanctuary with your coffee as you are able.

Snow Cancellations:

With last Sunday’s snow having been a bit more than was predicted in some areas, we weren’t able to make a timely decision about whether or not to hold our worship service.  Going forward, we will make such a decision by 8:30 and if we decide the safest decision is to cancel the service we will send out an e-mail message announcing the cancellation.  If you would prefer to receive a telephone call regarding such cancellations, please let Karen Murphy know.

Sharing Cupboard Needs:

The Sharing Cupboard always needs mayo, mustard, ketchup, canned carrots, cookies, crackers cereal and coffee. Thanks to the wonderful community outreach, our shelves are well stocked with other items. Please leave all donations in the donation box at the church entry.  Thank you.

1. Brookfield Farmer’s Market

Did you know?

….Our church is host to a fabulous farmer’s market each Wednesday afternoon from 3 – 6 in our Fellowship Hall!

Some of the fresh and delicious fare at the market include a wide variety of mushrooms, micro greens, fresh eggs, incredible bread, beautiful bulbs and flowers, a plethora of vegetables, fresh baked goodies, imported coffee, kombucha, honey, maple syrup, ice cream, grass-fed meat, hand-crafted jewelry, wooden bowls and cutting boards and even more!  Stop in sometime and enjoy one of West Brookfield’s hidden treasures! (Hidden right inside of our church!)

Meetings This Week

Sunday, January 18th:

ONA Panel discussion following worship

Have a wonderful weekend.

Bonni Holmes
Church Secretary

Pastor Doug’s Office Hours:

Friday, January 9^th – 9:30am – 12:30pm

Wednesday, January 14^th – 12:30 – 3:00pm

Friday, January 16^th – 9:30am – 12:30pm

Wednesday, January 21^st  – No office hours

Friday, January 23^rd  – No office hours

Please feel free to call me at 913-387-9947 if you need to schedule other times to meet.

Special Open and Affirming Panel Discussion – January 18th

Please join your Open and Affirming Committee members as they present an informal panel discussion where they will share why they are on the Open and Affirming Committee, why it is important to them and why they believe that our church should proclaim itself an open, affirming and welcoming church. This discussion will begin during coffee time, so plan to grab a bite, a drink, a chair and join them. All are strongly encouraged to attend.

Snow Cancellations:

With last Sunday’s snow having been a bit more than was predicted in some areas, we weren’t able to make a timely decision about whether or not to hold our worship service.  Going forward, we will make such a decision by 8:30 and if we decide the safest decision is to cancel the service we will send out an e-mail message announcing the cancellation.  If you would prefer to receive a telephone call regarding such cancellations, please let Karen Murphy know.

Sharing Cupboard Needs:

The Sharing Cupboard always needs mayo, mustard, ketchup, canned carrots, cookies, crackers cereal and coffee. Thanks to the wonderful community outreach, our shelves are well stocked with other items. Please leave all donations in the donation box at the church entry.  Thank you.

1. Brookfield Farmer’s Market

Did you know?

….Our church is host to a fabulous farmer’s market each Wednesday afternoon from 3 – 6 in our Fellowship Hall!

Some of the fresh and delicious fare at the market include a wide variety of mushrooms, micro greens, fresh eggs, incredible bread, beautiful bulbs and flowers, a plethora of vegetables, fresh baked goodies, imported coffee, kombucha, honey, maple syrup, ice cream, grass-fed meat, hand-crafted jewelry, wooden bowls and cutting boards and even more!  Stop in sometime and enjoy one of West Brookfield’s hidden treasures! (Hidden right inside of our church!)

Meetings This Week

Sunday, January 11th:

Church Council following our morning worship

Open and Affirming – Monday, January 12th

Pastor Doug’s Office Hours:

Friday, January 2^nd – call first

Wednesday, January 7^th – 12:30 – 3:00pm

Friday, January 9^th – 9:30am – 12:30pm

Please feel free to call me at 913-387-9947 if you need to schedule other times to meet.

Thank you

A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to the spur-of-the-moment “Santa Club” fund to assist Sharing Cupboard families with Christmas.  After hearing how many in our Sharing Cupboard client list were not able to participate in the Warren Police Department’s Toy Drive, either because their children were over 13 or because they did not attend Warren Elementary school, we were able to raise funds to purchase gift cards to assist parents.  I heard many expressions of gratitude from parents who were struggling with the financial dilemma of rent, heat, food, and a little something for their children for Christmas.   A little here and there adds up to a lot, and our church and Sharing Cupboard volunteers raised just over $2500 to help 18 families with children.   Thank you all for sharing your blessings with others!

Here’s an excerpt from an email from a grateful mom:

When I got home and opened the card I was completely blown away, and I cried. Here I am almost negative in my bank account trying to figure out how I will make Christmas happen for my boys and here you come an angel. You didn’t have to do this and I know you already know that but, please know that this family will be very happy waking up on Christmas thanks to you and what your church has done for us. Please also thank all involved for me. I hope one day that I am able to give back like you do for so many. Merry Christmas to you and your family and God bless.

Thank you everyone!

Dee Blanton

Church Moderator

President, Sharing Cupboard Board of Directors

Memorial Service -Lynn K. (Collings) Lettieri

Saturday, January 3, 2026,  11 a.m. at the Ellington Congregational Church, 72 Main St., Ellington, CT.

Snow Cancellations:

With last Sunday’s snow having been a bit more than was predicted in some areas, we weren’t able to make a timely decision about whether or not to hold our worship service.  Going forward, we will make such a decision by 8:30 and if we decide the safest decision is to cancel the service we will send out an e-mail message announcing the cancellation.  If you would prefer to receive a telephone call regarding such cancellations, please let Karen Murphy know.

Sharing Cupboard Needs:

The Sharing Cupboard always needs mayo, mustard, ketchup, canned carrots, cookies, crackers cereal and coffee. Thanks to the wonderful community outreach, our shelves are well stocked with other items. Please leave all donations in the donation box at the church entry.  Thank you.

1. Brookfield Farmer’s Market

The W. Brookfield Farmer’s Market that is held on the town common during the spring and summer months, has returned to our Fellowship Hall for another season. The market is held on Wednesdays from 3 pm – 6 pm and offers a bountiful selection of wonderful fresh foods, farm products and handmade items from local artists and farmers.  After a holiday break the market will return on Wednesday, January 7th.

Meetings This Week

Sunday, January 4th:

Music Committee

Parish Board

Pastor Doug’s Office Hours for the Remainder of December:

Wednesday, 12/31, 9:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Please feel free to call me at 913-387-9947 if you need to schedule other times to meet.

Thank you

A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to the spur-of-the-moment “Santa Club” fund to assist Sharing Cupboard families with Christmas.  After hearing how many in our Sharing Cupboard client list were not able to participate in the Warren Police Department’s Toy Drive, either because their children were over 13 or because they did not attend Warren Elementary school, we were able to raise funds to purchase gift cards to assist parents.  I heard many expressions of gratitude from parents who were struggling with the financial dilemma of rent, heat, food, and a little something for their children for Christmas.   A little here and there adds up to a lot, and our church and Sharing Cupboard volunteers raised just over $2500 to help 18 families with children.   Thank you all for sharing your blessings with others!

Here’s an excerpt from an email from a grateful mom:

When I got home and opened the card I was completely blown away, and I cried. Here I am almost negative in my bank account trying to figure out how I will make Christmas happen for my boys and here you come an angel. You didn’t have to do this and I know you already know that but, please know that this family will be very happy waking up on Christmas thanks to you and what your church has done for us. Please also thank all involved for me. I hope one day that I am able to give back like you do for so many. Merry Christmas to you and your family and God bless.

Thank you everyone!

Dee Blanton

Church Moderator

President, Sharing Cupboard Board of Directors

Funeral – Joan Dirlam

At the church on Monday, December 29, 2025 at 11:00am

Memorial Service -Lynn K. (Collings) Lettieri

Saturday, January 3, 2026,  11 a.m. at the Ellington Congregational Church, 72 Main St., Ellington, CT.

Snow Cancellations:

With last Sunday’s snow having been a bit more than was predicted in some areas, we weren’t able to make a timely decision about whether or not to hold our worship service.  Going forward, we will make such a decision by 8:30 and if we decide the safest decision is to cancel the service we will send out an e-mail message announcing the cancellation.  If you would prefer to receive a telephone call regarding such cancellations, please let Karen Murphy know.

Sharing Cupboard Needs:

The Sharing Cupboard always needs  mayo, mustard, ketchup, canned carrots, cookies, crackers cereal and coffee. Thanks to the wonderful community outreach, our shelves are well stocked with other items. Please leave all donations in the donation box at the church entry.  Thank you.

1. Brookfield Farmer’s Market

NOTE: The market will be taking a hiatus on 

December 24th and December 31st due to the holidays.

The W. Brookfield Farmer’s Market that is held on the town common during the spring and summer months, has returned to our Fellowship Hall for another season. The market is held on Wednesdays from 3 pm – 6 pm and offers a bountiful selection of wonderful fresh foods, farm products and handmade items from local artists and farmers.  Check it out!

Meetings This Week

There are no meetings scheduled for this week.

DEADLINE

The deadline for submissions to the next Glad Tidings newsletter is Monday, December 29^th.

Christmas Eve Service:

Please join us on Wednesday, December 24^th at 7pm for a Candlelight service celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior.

Pastor Doug’s Office Hours for the Remainder of December:

Friday, 12/19, 9:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Tuesday, 12/23, 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon

Friday, 12/26 TBA

Wednesday, 12/31, 9:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Please feel free to call me at 913-387-9947 if you need to schedule other times to meet.

Lynn K. (Collings) Lettieri Obituary

Lynn K. (Collings) Lettieri, 55, of Ellington, loving wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, colleague and friend, beloved wife of 21 years to Brian R. Lettieri, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family following a courageous battle with cancer on Friday, December 12, She was born on August 12, 1970, in Springfield, MA, one of two children to Albert F. and Kathleen (St. Marie) Collings.

Lynn grew up in Somers, attended local schools, and was a graduate of Somers High School, Class of 1988. During her time there, she was a 12-letter athlete, excelling in softball, basketball and soccer. Following high school, she continued her education earning her bachelor’s degree in fine arts from the Maine College of Art, and shortly thereafter, her master’s from Central Connecticut State University. Lynn was employed by the town of Farmington, and most recently, the town of Glastonbury, as an art teacher in their elementary schools. In 2018, Lynn was named the CT Art Education Association’s Elementary Teacher of the Year. When not teaching art to others, you could find Lynn at her home painting at her easel, capturing different subjects through her camera lens, or spending time out in her garden. Although our time with Lynn has been cut short, her creativity, kindness, and attention to detail will be missed by all those who knew her.

In addition to her husband and parents, Lynn is survived by her son, Alex Lettieri of Ellington; her brother, Peter Collings and his wife Maya Shastri of Gainesville, FL, and their children, James, Lee, and Robin.

A memorial service will be celebrated on Saturday, January 3, 2026, beginning at 11 a.m. at the Ellington Congregational Church, 72 Main St., Ellington. At the request of her family, burial will be held privately in Ellington Center Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Glastonbury Board of Education Student Activities, Art Department and mailed to Glastonbury Board of Education, 628 Hebron Ave., P.O. Box 191, Glastonbury, CT 06033 or to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD

To leave an online message of condolence for her family, please visit www.carmonfuneralhome.com.

Update

Jim Haynes was moved to Encompass Rehabilitation Hospital in Ludlow on Tuesday, Dec. 16th following surgery on his hip after a fall.  Cards would be most welcome and appreciated.  They can be sent to Encompass Rehabilitation Hospital, 222 State Street, Ludlow, MA  01056.  He’s expected to be there for 2-3 weeks.

Christmas Eve refreshments:

We will be inviting people to stay for refreshments after the Christmas Eve candlelight service.  We are looking for finger foods, preferably not all pastries.  If you would like to contribute something please contact Karen Murphy at kmurphy718@charter.net   Or 508-801-7692

Snow Cancellations:

With last Sunday’s snow having been a bit more than was predicted in some areas, we weren’t able to make a timely decision about whether or not to hold our worship service.  Going forward, we will make such a decision by 8:30 and if we decide the safest decision is to cancel the service we will send out an e-mail message announcing the cancellation.  If you would prefer to receive a telephone call regarding such cancellations, please let Karen Murphy know.

Sharing Cupboard Needs:

The Sharing Cupboard always needs  mayo, mustard, ketchup, canned carrots, cookies, crackers cereal and coffee. Thanks to the wonderful community outreach, our shelves are well stocked with other items. Please leave all donations in the donation box at the church entry.  Thank you.

Brookfield Farmer’s Market

NOTE: The market will be taking a hiatus on December 24th and December 31st

due to the holidays.

The W. Brookfield Farmer’s Market that is held on the town common during the spring and summer months, has returned to our Fellowship Hall for another season. The market is held on Wednesdays from 3 pm – 6 pm and offers a bountiful selection of wonderful fresh foods, farm products and handmade items from local artists and farmers.  Check it out!

Meetings This Week

There are no meetings scheduled for this week.

Church Secretary’s Office Hours

Bonni will be in the office on Tuesday, December 23^rd 8-10 instead of Friday.

Friends,

Following are the current announcements from First Congregational Church, West Brookfield, United Church of Christ:

From Pastor Doug:

Joan Dirlam’s funeral service will be held at the church on Monday, December 29 at 11 a.m., with a service of interment to follow immediately afterwards at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Southbridge.  Peter’s service is tomorrow morning at 11 a.m., also followed immediately by a service of interment in Southbridge. Please keep their family members in prayer in this sad time.

Jim Haynes fell on the ice on Tuesday and broke his hip.  He was transported to Baystate Hospital on Wednesday and was scheduled for surgery on Thursday. We will get updates to folks as we receive them.  Please keep Jim and Ellen in prayer as Jim goes through the healing and rehab process.

Al & Kathy Collings daughter, Lynn Lettieri, passed away peacefully Thursday night at her home in Ellington, CT.  Arrangements are pending but there will likely be a service at the UCC church in Ellington in the near future.  Please keep Lynn’s family, including Al & Kathy in your prayers.

Pastor Doug’s Office Hours for the Remainder of December:

Friday, 12/12, 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon

Monday, 12/15, 2:30 – 5:00 p.m.

Friday, 12/19, 9:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Tuesday, 12/23, 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon

Friday, 12/26 TBA

Wednesday, 12/31, 9:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Please feel free to call me at 913-387-9947 if you need to schedule other times to meet.

Advent Interlude – this Tuesday!

If you’re looking for a time to gather and reflect upon, and be inspired by, the true meaning of the Advent season, we hope you will join us in the sanctuary on Tuesday, December 15 at 7 p.m. for a new program called “Advent Interlude.”  We’ll have an hour together of inspiring readings, short video presentations, and lively music offerings.  Come for a time of joy and go out inspired by the true meaning of the season in which we prepare for the birth of the Christ child!

Service for Peter Dirlam

Calling hours for church member Peter Dirlam will be held at Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge on Friday, December 12th from 4 – 6 pm. Peter’s funeral will be held at our church on Saturday, December 13th at 11 am.

White Christmas

A giant THANKS to each of you who participated or donated to this year’s White Christmas in West Brookfield event at our church. It was a great success in both fun and fellowship AND funds! It is believed that there was as much laughter and smiles as money generated – and that makes it all worthwhile!

A Very Special Thanks to:

Kitchen mavens: Karen Andersen and Debbie Steltzer for a vast and delicious lunch menu and — for both organizing the bake table AND baking much of what was on it!

The Bakers: All of those who came to the church kitchen and created your scrumptious delicacies for the bake table!

The Raffle Queens: Dee Blanton, Angela Carville & Linda Barron for gathering, organizing and overseeing our huge “really cool stuff” raffle!

And to every other person who donated the turkeys and all the groceries to make the wonderful luncheon and to all the volunteers who gave their time and energy to make it all happen that day! The order takers, the greeters, the cashiers, the order fillers and of course the clean up crew!

Total Funds generated to support our church and its outreach into the community were:

Kitchen – $2118

Bake Table – $778

Quilt Raffle – $143

“Really Cool Stuff” Raffle – $1482

Total – $4521

THANKS!     THANKS!     THANKS!     THANKS!     THANKS!     THANKS!     THANKS!     THANKS!

Poinsettias

The holidays are fast approaching and Nancy Arsenault will be ordering poinsettias to decorate our church sanctuary for Christmas Eve.  Order forms are available on the table in the rear of the sanctuary with a deadline of Sunday, December 14th. Please note that Green Thumb, our local West Brookfield florist, is offering us more choices this year than we have had in the past.  In addition to the traditional red and white poinsettias, there is now also a choice of pink as well as variegated!  The price this year will be $15 ea. Thank you for helping to make our sanctuary festive for Christmas Eve!

Christmas Eve refreshments:

We will be inviting people to stay for refreshments after the Christmas Eve candlelight service.  We are looking for finger foods, preferably not all pastries.  If you would like to contribute something please contact Karen Murphy at kmurphy718@charter.net   Or 508-801-7692

Sharing Cupboard Needs:

The Sharing Cupboard is in need of more plastic shopping bags, mayo, canned peas, canned carrots, and canned green beans. Fresh vegetables from your garden are always welcome. Please leave all donations in the donation box at the church entry but leave the vegetables with a pantry volunteer.  Thank you.

1. Brookfield Farmer’s Market

The W. Brookfield Farmer’s Market that is held on the town common during the spring and summer months, has returned to our Fellowship Hall for another season. The market is held on Wednesdays from 3 pm – 6 pm and offers a bountiful selection of wonderful fresh foods, farm products and handmade items from local artists and farmers.  NOTE: The market will be open on December 17th but will take a hiatus on December 24th and December 31st due to the holidays.

Meetings This Week

Open and Affirming Committee – Friday, December 12th – 1 pm

White Christmas Committee – Post-event brainstorm gathering – Tuesday, December 16th – 2 pm

Have a wonderful weekend.

Bonni Holmes
Church Secretary