(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.
Aug 14, 2026
Pastor Doug’s office hours
Friday, August 21, 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon and 1:00-2:30 p.m.
Upcoming Bible Study
With schools heading back into session before too long, it seems appropriate that we also have another Bible study group begin in September. We will do a six week study entitled “Short Stories by Jesus: The Enigmatic Parables of A Controversial Rabbi,” once again by Professor Amy-Jill Levine. We will meet on Thursday afternoons from 5:15 to 6:30 p.m., the same time as we used in the spring, which seemed to work reasonably well. Dates will be September 10, 17, and 24, and October 8, 15, and 22. Books for the study will cost between $13 and $15 each, depending on what kind of a sale price we might be able to get. Please let Pastor Doug know by Sunday, August 23 if you would like to participate in the study and order a book (no need to pay until the books actually arrive and we know the exact price). Looking forward to another chance to learn together!
Pastor Doug
Did you notice the new banner?
The Open and Affirming Committee is happy to share that the new banner announcing our ONA status is now on the front lawn—our thanks to Wally Hall for installing it. Take a look!
Parish Board
Our parking lot repairs are scheduled to start next week, beginning on Monday, August 17th. The workers will be here on Sunday afternoon (16th) to cone off the area that they will be working in on Monday. The drain areas will be repaired first, followed by the sealing and painting of the lines later in the week. If you have any questions, contact Parish Board chair Karen Murphy.
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! 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
Birthdays this week
Vance Boucher – 8/22
Church YouTube Channel
Did you know that we now have a church Youtube channel?!
Miss a Sunday but still want to hear Pastor Doug’s message and Stephen’s beautiful music? Tune in!
https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCongregationalChurchofW.B
Water Quality Report
The 2025 West Brookfield Water Quality Report is now available online. Printed copies are also available at the Post Office, the Library, Town Hall, Water Dept Office, and the Senior Center. If you prefer to have a copy mailed to you, please call the office at (508) 867-1421 ext 8.
Aug 07, 2026
Pastor Doug’s office hours
Friday, August 14, 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon and 1:00-2:30 p.m.
Upcoming Bible Study
With schools heading back into session before too long, it seems appropriate that we also have another Bible study group begin in September. We will do a six week study entitled “Short Stories by Jesus: The Enigmatic Parables of A Controversial Rabbi,” once again by Professor Amy-Jill Levine. We will meet on Thursday afternoons from 5:15 to 6:30 p.m., the same time as we used in the spring, which seemed to work reasonably well. Dates will be September 10, 17, and 24, and October 8, 15, and 22. Books for the study will cost between $13 and $15 each, depending on what kind of a sale price we might be able to get. Please let Pastor Doug know by Sunday, August 23 if you would like to participate in the study and order a book (no need to pay until the books actually arrive and we know the exact price). Looking forward to another chance to learn together!
Pastor Doug
Dismas Farm
Please join us for the Dismas dinner at the farm on Tuesday, August 11 at 6pm. Please let Angela (508) 347-1148 or Deanna (413) 436-7849 know what you would like to bring.
Are you able to provide a ride to someone in need?
Church member Millie Gushue’s elderly neighbor is seeking rides to her doctor’s appointments. The appointments are mostly in the town of Ware. She is willing to compensate the driver. If you are able to assist, please contact Millie at 413-436-7125.
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! 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!
Parking Lot Repairs
Parking lot repairs are scheduled to begin Monday, August 17 weather permitting. More info will follow.
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
Birthdays & Anniversaries this week
Karen Anderson – 8/11
Linda Barron – 8/15
Wally & Terry Hall – 8/24
Church YouTube Channel
Did you know that we now have a church Youtube channel?!
Miss a Sunday but still want to hear Pastor Doug’s message and Stephen’s beautiful music? Tune in!
https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCongregationalChurchofW.B
Water Quality Report
The 2025 West Brookfield Water Quality Report is now available online. Printed copies are also available at the Post Office, the Library, Town Hall, Water Dept Office, and the Senior Center. If you prefer to have a copy mailed to you, please call the office at (508) 867-1421 ext 8.
Have a great week,
Bonni
Jul 31, 2026
All-Church-Member Vote Meeting
Please mark your calendars for an all-church-member vote following worship this Sunday, August 2nd. This vote pertains to the funding of renovations to our building. Please mark your calendars and plan to attend. If you would like a Zoom link to attend this meeting, please send a request to terryle56@yahoo.com. PLEASE request this link well in advance not right before the meeting begins. Thanks.
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, August 7, 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon and 1:00-2:30 p.m.
Are you able to provide a ride to someone in need?
Church member Millie Gushue’s elderly neighbor is seeking rides to her doctor’s appointments. The appointments are mostly in the town of Ware. She is willing to compensate the driver. If you are able to assist, please contact Millie at 413-436-7125.
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! 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.
Birthdays this week
Mary Beth Czaja – 8/2
Jen Walters – 8/2
Jessica Dwelly – 8/3
Terry Hall – 8/6
David Whittemore – 8/8
Meetings This Week
Sunday, August 2 – all church vote meeting following worship
Church YouTube Channel
Did you know that we now have a church Youtube channel?!
Miss a Sunday but still want to hear Pastor Doug’s message and Stephen’s beautiful music? Tune in!
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.
Read the latest issue of our newsletter, Glad Tidings