(508) 867-7078 | Worship with us each Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
(508) 867-7078 | Worship with us each Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Read the latest news for our church.
Jul 24, 2026
Hi Everyone,
All-Church-Member Vote Meeting
Please mark your calendars for an all-church-member vote following worship on Sunday, August 2nd. This vote pertains to the funding of a renovation to our front entryway. More details are forthcoming, but please mark your calendars and plan to attend.
Terry Hall, Clerk
Renovation Project: Replacement of Front Stairs, Doorway to the Coatroom. Funding Request: $13,980, with $10,000 being provided by the HRB Capital Improvement Fund and the remainder from a private donation.
Description: Replace the stairs at front single door of church with a new set that has a wide top landing step that will provide a safer way to exit and enter the church. Currently, the top step is 14 1/2 inches deep x 57 inches. However, in addition to being a step down it is effectively only 12 inches deep, due to the sill under the door sticking over the step by several inches. This makes it difficult to open the door without stepping down and backward. It is also a hazard when people are entering and exiting at the same time (for example at Farmer’s Market), since there is no room to step aside when the door opens. The new landing step will be 36 inches deep and 60 inches wide, allowing enough room for people to open the door while standing on the landing or step aside if someone is exiting. New steps will be placed on compacted base material and side fillers. The iron railings on both sides of the stairs will be replaced. The circle of pavers at base of stairs will be replaced with salt-resistant pavers with the grade adjusted to match the sidewalk.
Pastor Doug’s office hours
Friday, July 31, 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon and 1:00-2:30 p.m.
Prayer Request
Please continue to keep Millie Gushue in prayer. Her PET Scan revealed a small spot on one of her lungs, which is a cause for concern. She will soon see a radiologist who will help determine the nature of the spot and how to treat it.
School Supply Drive
The beginning of school is just around the corner and our local elementary school is in need of many extra supplies for their classrooms. Please donate as you are able! It will be appreciated. The Missions Committee will be collecting supplies for the West Warren Elementary School until August 23rd. A list of supplies is located on the table in the back of the church. See Shelley Fullam with questions…And thanks!
Sharing Cupboard Needs:
The Sharing Cupboard currently needs mayo, mustard, ketchup, 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.
Meetings This Week
No meetings scheduled
YouTube Channel
You can find sermons on our YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCongregationalChurchofW.B
Have a great week,
Bonni
Jul 17, 2026
All-Church-Member Vote Meeting
Please mark your calendars for an all-church-member vote following worship on Sunday, August 2nd. This vote pertains to the funding of a renovation to our front entryway. More details are forthcoming, but please mark your calendars and plan to attend.
Terry Hall, Clerk
Notes from Pastor Doug
Due to a medical appointment in Leominster next Friday morning I will not be able to hold my normal Friday office hours on July 24. I hope to be in the office several times next week, but should anyone need to meet with me please call my mobile phone, 913-387-9947 to make an appointment.
Many thanks to all who sent happy birthday wishes to me last weekend and who participated in serenading me with “Happy Birthday” in church last Sunday. The greetings were unexpected, but much appreciated, and I was touched by your caring and kindness. Thank you!
Prayer Request
Please continue to pray for Millie Gushue as she awaits results at the beginning of next week from her recent PET Scan. Please also pray for a reduction in the swelling of her leg so that she might soon be fitted for a new boot.
Prayers of gratitude for our Sharing Cupboard and Dismas Farm ministries, and especially for all of the volunteers who contribute to sustain them.
Sharing Cupboard Needs:
The Sharing Cupboard currently needs mayo, mustard, ketchup, 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.
Meetings This Week
No meetings scheduled
Jul 10, 2026
All-Church-Member Vote Meeting
Please mark your calendars for an all-church-member vote following worship on Sunday, August 2nd. This vote pertains to the funding of a renovation to our front entryway. More details are forthcoming, but please mark your calendars and plan to attend.
Terry Hall, Clerk
Pastor Doug / Office Hours
Prayer Request
Please keep Millie Gushue in prayer for good results from the PET scan she will have today and for a reduction in the swelling in her leg so that she can be fitted for a new boot.
Sharing Cupboard Needs:
The Sharing Cupboard currently needs mayo, mustard, ketchup, 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.
Meetings This Week
Sunday, July 12 – Church Council
Jun 26, 2026
AED Training
On Sunday, June 28th at approximately 11:30 am an AED training will be conducted by a West Brookfield EMT. An AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is a portable, life-saving medical device used to treat sudden cardiac arrest. It automatically analyzes a person’s heart rhythm and, if it detects a dangerous or stopped rhythm, delivers an electrical shock to help restore a normal heartbeat. The one in our church is located on the wall in the Fellowship Hall. This is a very important training, so please consider attending. Questions, contact Karen Murphy – Kmurphy718@charter.net
Small Town Pride
On Saturday, June 27th, Rural Justice Network is sponsoring Small Town Pride at Ogara Park in Spencer. Small Town Pride is a celebration of all things LGBTQIA. The event includes live performances of bands, dancers, singers, and speakers. The field is full of vendors distributing their own creations and information about our surrounding towns and communities. Volunteers tour the grounds to help answer questions and make this a fun and memorable experience for everyone. Food and Porta-Potties are also available. Nonprofits are welcome to attend. Our church will have a presence this year, sharing with others that we are now an open and affirming church and that all are welcome. Small town pride runs from 12 pm to 5 pm.
The address for Ogara Park is 99 Valley St., Spencer, MA 01562.
Please see Terry Hall for more information.
Coffee Hour
Oh, how we love our time of yummy snacks and conversation!
We thank everyone who volunteers to bring it to us each Sunday. It is truly appreciated.
As you chat with your fellow coffee hour volunteers in planning for your scheduled Sunday, please keep in mind that you are only providing a small snack to tide us over until we get home and have our lunch there. A couple of sweets and a couple of savory items are all that is expected. If you and your team want to get a bit elaborate, that is an option, but please understand it is not an expectation. Coffee hour should be a relaxing time for all, even for those who prepare it.
See Karen Andersen if you have any questions about what to bring – and thanks again!
Pastor Doug / Office Hours
Meetings This week
Church Council Sunday, June 28 following coffee hour and the AED training.
Sharing Cupboard Needs:
The Sharing Cupboard currently needs mayo, mustard, ketchup, 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.
Jun 19, 2026
AED Training
On Sunday, June 28th at approximately 11:30 am an AED training will be conducted by a West Brookfield EMT. An AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is a portable, life-saving medical device used to treat sudden cardiac arrest. It automatically analyzes a person’s heart rhythm and, if it detects a dangerous or stopped rhythm, delivers an electrical shock to help restore a normal heartbeat. The one in our church is located on the wall in the Fellowship Hall. This is a very important training, so please consider attending. Questions, contact Karen Murphy – Kmurphy718@charter.net
A Chorus For These Times – Tomorrow Night!
A Chorus For These Times will host a concert in our sanctuary on Saturday, June 20th at 7 pm, preceded by a social hour from 6 pm – 7 pm.
Solstice Sing for Peace and Justice – Songs to Cultivate Community, Compassion, and Commitment
will feature the local singing group A Chorus for These Times, directed by Nym Cook, with instrumentalist & guest artist Leslie Sweetnam.
We are seeking donations of easy finger foods for the social hour. If you can offer something, please contact Karen Murphy at kmurphy718@charter.net.
There is no admission charge but donations will be accepted to support Abby’s House, Worcester’s largest provider of affordable housing specifically designed to meet the needs of women and children.
Please invite family and friends! Hope to see you there!
Small Town Pride
On Saturday, June 27th, Rural Justice Network is sponsoring Small Town Pride at Ogara Park in Spencer. Small Town Pride is a celebration of all things LGBTQIA. The event includes live performances of bands, dancers, singers, and speakers. The field is full of vendors distributing their own creations and information about our surrounding towns and communities. Volunteers tour the grounds to help answer questions and make this a fun and memorable experience for everyone. Food and Porta-Potties are also available. Nonprofits are welcome to attend. Our church will have a presence this year, sharing with others that we are now an open and affirming church and that all are welcome. Small town pride runs from 12 pm to 5 pm.
The address for Ogara Park is 99 Valley St., Spencer, MA 01562.
Please see Terry Hall for more information.
Coffee Hour
Oh, how we love our time of yummy snacks and conversation!
We thank everyone who volunteers to bring it to us each Sunday. It is truly appreciated.
As you chat with your fellow coffee hour volunteers in planning for your scheduled Sunday, please keep in mind that you are only providing a small snack to tide us over until we get home and have our lunch there. A couple of sweets and a couple of savory items are all that is expected. If you and your team want to get a bit elaborate, that is an option, but please understand it is not an expectation. Coffee hour should be a relaxing time for all, even for those who prepare it.
See Karen Andersen if you have any questions about what to bring – and thanks again!
Pastor Doug / Office Hours
Meetings This week
Friday, June 26 – Open and Affirming Committee 1 pm
Sharing Cupboard Needs:
The Sharing Cupboard currently needs mayo, mustard, ketchup, 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.
Jun 12, 2026
AED Training
On Sunday, June 28th at approximately 11:30 am an AED training will be conducted by a West Brookfield EMT. An AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is a portable, life-saving medical device used to treat sudden cardiac arrest. It automatically analyzes a person’s heart rhythm and, if it detects a dangerous or stopped rhythm, delivers an electrical shock to help restore a normal heartbeat. The one in our church is located on the wall in the Fellowship Hall. This is a very important training, so please consider attending. Questions, contact Karen Murphy – Kmurphy718@charter.net
A Chorus For These Times
A Chorus For These Times will host a concert in our sanctuary on Saturday, June 20th at 7 pm, preceded by a social hour from 6 pm – 7 pm.
Solstice Sing for Peace and Justice – Songs to Cultivate Community, Compassion, and Commitment
will feature the local singing group A Chorus for These Times, directed by Nym Cook, with instrumentalist & guest artist Leslie Sweetnam.
We are seeking donations of easy finger foods for the social hour. If you can offer something, please contact Karen Murphy at kmurphy718@charter.net.
There is no admission charge but donations will be accepted to support Abby’s House, Worcester’s largest provider of affordable housing specifically designed to meet the needs of women and children.
Please invite family and friends! Hope to see you there!
Small Town Pride
On Saturday, June 27th, Rural Justice Network is sponsoring Small Town Pride at Ogara Park in Spencer. Small Town Pride is a celebration of all things LGBTQIA.The event includes live performances of bands, dancers, singers, and speakers. The field is full of vendors distributing their own creations and information about our surrounding towns and communities. Volunteers tour the grounds to help answer questions and make this a fun and memorable experience for everyone. Food and Porta-Potties are also available. Nonprofits are welcome to attend. Our church will have a presence this year, sharing with others that we are now an open and affirming church and that all are welcome. Small town pride runs from 12 pm to 5 pm.
The address for Ogara Park is 99 Valley St., Spencer, MA 01562.
Please see Terry Hall for more information.
Coffee Hour
Oh, how we love our time of yummy snacks and conversation!
We thank everyone who volunteers to bring it to us each Sunday. It is truly appreciated.
As you chat with your fellow coffee hour volunteers in planning for your scheduled Sunday, please keep in mind that you are only providing a small snack to tide us over until we get home and have our lunch there. A couple of sweets and a couple of savory items are all that is expected. If you and your team want to get a bit elaborate, that is an option, but please understand it is not an expectation. Coffee hour should be a relaxing time for all, even for those who prepare it.
See Karen Andersen if you have any questions about what to bring – and thanks again!
With Sadness
Jim Haynes died late on Wednesday evening, June 10. Visiting hours will be held at the Lombard Funeral Home in Monson on Thursday, June 18. A funeral service for Jim will be held here at the church at 10 a.m. on Friday, June 19. The service will be followed by a service of interment at a cemetery in Monson and then a luncheon in Monson (more details will be shared as arrangements are finalized). Please continue to keep Ellen in prayer at this sad time, and please also keep members of Jim and Ellen’s family in prayer in the days ahead.
Pastor Doug / Office Hours
Sharing Cupboard Needs:
The Sharing Cupboard currently needs mayo, mustard, ketchup, 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.
Jun 05, 2026
AED Training
Sunday, June 28 following service at 11:30ish. There will be an AED training that will be conducted by a West Brookfield EMT. This is a very important training so please consider attending. Questions, contact Karen Murphy at. Kmurphy718@charter.net
Chorus For These Times,
will be performing a sing/concert for us on June 20 from 6 PM to 8 PM. There will be refreshments and entertainment. This event is open to the public please invite family and friends. If you are able and willing to contribute some kind of refreshments, please contact Karen Murphy at KMurphy718@charter.net. We are looking for easy finger foods. Hope to see you there.
Prayer Requests
Please keep Jim Haynes in prayer. Jim continues at JGS Lifecare Rehab in East Longmeadow.
Pastor Doug / Office Hours
Sharing Cupboard Needs:
The Sharing Cupboard currently needs mayo, mustard, ketchup, 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.
Meetings this Week
There are no meetings this week.
May 29, 2026
Guest Minister, Sunday, May 31st
We are happy to welcome Pastor Emily Castner to our church this Sunday while Pastor Doug is away. Ordained by the UCC in 2007 to a half-time position as the Protestant chaplain in a 500-bed nursing home in Rochester, NY, Emily retired and moved to Worcester in 2018. She is a deacon of the United Congregational Church in Worcester and chairs their Creation Justice Task Force as well as occasional supply preaching.
Please give her a warm West Brookfield welcome!
Prayer Requests
Please keep Jim Haynes in prayer. Jim continues at JGS Lifecare Rehab in East Longmeadow.
Thank you for your prayers. Millie Gushe is home after her hospital stay.
Pastor Doug / Office Hours
Pastor Doug is taking a short break. He is taking off Friday, May 29 – Monday, June 1.
Sharing Cupboard Needs:
The Sharing Cupboard currently needs mayo, mustard, ketchup, 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.
Meetings this Week
Church Council Sunday, May 31
Post-Asparagus Festival Committee – June 2 – 1 pm
Missions Committee – Thursday, June 4 – 2pm
Transition Team – Friday, June 5 -1 pm
***Does your committee or Board have a meeting planned? Please let others know! Send your meeting date and time to Bonni before any Friday as she posts on Friday mornings. The church email address is fccwbworship@gmail.com. Thank you.
Did you know that we are on YouTube???
Visit our YouTube channel and see recorded sermons from Pastor Doug Williamson.
www.youtube.com/@firstcongregationalchurchofW.B
You can also find a link on our website. Look under the NEWS tab and you will find SERMONS.
Glad Tidings
The June issue has been mailed and emailed. There are copies available in the foyer of the church or if you would like to receive a copy by mail, please let me know.
Chorus For These Times, will be performing a sing/concert for us on June 20 from 6 PM to 8 PM. There will be refreshments and entertainment. This event is open to the public please invite family and friends. If you are able and willing to contribute some kind of refreshments, please contact Karen Murphy at KMurphy718@charter.net. We are looking for easy finger foods. Hope to see you there.
May 22, 2026
Asparagus, Heritage and Flower Festival – A Roaring Success for All!
We planned, they came, and we had an incredible day!
The weather was picture perfect and the crowds were bigger than ever. We sold gallons and gallons of asparagus chowder and tons of brownies.
There was frequent and loud laughter from many corners of our lawn – – – and we’ll do it again next year!
Thanks to everyone who donated the groceries, gave monetary support or volunteered their time to help on Friday and Saturday. It was ALL appreciated!
The total raised from all your efforts to support our church missions and our church infrastructure was just shy of $10,000. A very successful day, indeed!
Thanks, everyone!
Your Asparagus Festival Kitchen and Tent Crews – and Committee
In Case You Missed it
There are still 5 quarts of chowder left for purchase. They have been put in the freezer. If you are interested, please see Karen Andersen or Karen Murphy.
Prayer Requests
Please keep Jim Haynes in prayer. Jim continues at JGS Lifecare Rehab in East Longmeadow.
Please keep Millie Gushue in prayer. Millie is at Harrington Hospital in room 321, being treated for an infection, and would love to have visitors.
Pastor Doug / Office Hours
Pastor Doug will be taking a short break next week, taking off Friday through Monday, May 29-June 1. He will be working from home in the early part of next week, so please feel free to call him (913-387-9947) if you need to speak with him or make an appointment. Pastor Doug will be offering a Memorial Day prayer on the Common at 9:45 a.m. as part of the community remembrances that day.
Sharing Cupboard Needs:
The Sharing Cupboard currently needs mayo, mustard, ketchup, 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.
Meetings this Week
Open and Affirming Committee – Friday, May 22, 1 pm
Deacons – Sunday, May 24
Church Council Sunday, May 31
***Does your committee or Board have a meeting planned? Please let others know! Send your meeting date and time to Bonni before any Friday as she posts on Friday mornings. The church email address is fccwbworship@gmail.com. Thank you.
Did you know that we are on YouTube???
Visit our Youtube channel and see recorded sermons from Pastor Doug Williamson.
www.youtube.com/@firstcongregationalchurchofW.B
You can also find a link on our website. Look under the NEWS tab and you will find SERMONS.
Next issue of Glad Tidings
The deadline for submissions to the June issue of Glad Tidings is Tuesday, May 26th.
May 15, 2026
Open and Affirming Committee
As was reported in last week’s email, our congregation ushered in a new welcoming era on Sunday, May 3rd as we made our Covenant of Welcome an official document of our church. With the adoption of this covenant, we were able to apply to the United Church of Christ’s Open and Affirming Coalition for open and affirming status. We celebrated this milestone on Sunday, May 10 with a group photo! In addition, on Thursday of this week, the Coalition approved our application. This makes our church the 1954th church in our denomination to achieve this status. Truly something to celebrate!
Thanks for your continued support of this very important mission of our church.
Doug Showalter, Pat Jackman, Karen Murphy, Angela Carville, Stephanie Beland, Beverly Prestwood-Taylor, Pastor Doug and Terry Hall
Our Covenant of Welcome
We, the members of the First Congregational Church of West Brookfield, UCC, are a people of faith, following Jesus and sharing God’s abundant love, believing each of us is created in God’s image. We seek to demonstrate God’s love through respect and care for one another. We celebrate and learn from differences in race, culture, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, economic and political background, and physical and cognitive challenges. We welcome those who have no church home, need strength, want to follow Christ, or are seekers in their spiritual lives. All are invited to participate fully in the life, leadership, ministry and mission of this church as we strive to grow in a safe and nurturing community of faith. No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.
Asparagus, Heritage and Flower Festival – THIS Saturday, May 16th 10 am – 3 pm
Spring has sprung and the asparagus is growing! Once again, it’s time for the annual festival that celebrates the gorgeous, green goodness!
Our church will have hot chowder by-the-cup ($7), cold chowder by the quart-to-go ($20), yummy brownies, and drinks on the church lawn from 10 – 3. Cold quarts will also be available on the town common (west end), along with raffle tickets for a chance to win Mary Deotte’s beautiful handmade quilt.
Mark your calendars and plan to stop in for a delicious treat and a quart to-go!
Thanks to everyone who has donated the groceries needed, given monetary support or is scheduled to volunteer their time to help on Saturday. It is ALL appreciated!
Questions?
See Karen Andersen, Karen Murphy or Terry Hall
Prayer Requests
Please keep Jim Haynes in prayer. Jim continues at JGS Lifecare Rehab in East Longmeadow.
Prayers of thanksgiving that Neil Blodgett is healed and home from his lengthy stay in the rehab care center.
Office Hours
Sharing Cupboard Needs:
The Sharing Cupboard currently needs mayo, mustard, ketchup, 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.
Meetings this Week
No Meetings this week
***Does your committee or Board have a meeting planned? Please let others know! Send your meeting date and time to Bonni before any Friday as she posts on Friday mornings. The church email address is fccwbworship@gmail.com. Thank you.
Did you know that we are on YouTube???
Visit our Youtube channel and see recorded sermons from Pastor Doug Williamson.
www.youtube.com/@firstcongregationalchurchofW.B
You can also find a link on our website. Look under the NEWS tab and you will find SERMONS.
Have a wonderful weekend.
Bonni Holmes
Church Secretary
Read the latest issue of our newsletter, Glad Tidings