News

WHITE CHRISTMAS

December 7th

WELCOME TO OUR OPEN HOUSE

Open 11:30 am – 5 pm

LUNCH: Open-faced Hot Turkey (w/ Stuffing & Gravy) Sandwich

Hot Homemade Soup, Chicken, Egg & Ham Salad Sandwiches, Chili & Chili Dogs, Cheesecake & Pie!

Delicious Baked Goods Table

HUGE Raffle – Featuring a variety of unique and fun items, gift cards, gift baskets!

Free Door Prize Raffle

Handmade Quilt Raffle – Potato Chip pattern – 58″ x  68″

Handbell Choir – 1:30 pm Hardwick Memorial Handbell Choir Concert

Elf Hunt – Don’t forget to find the elf and get your stamp to win a prize!

36 N. Main St. – On the Common

Pastor Doug’s Office Hours:

Wednesday and Friday from 9:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m

Hanging of the Greens: 

We will be decorating the church for the seasons of Advent and Christmas following our worship service on November 23.  The First Sunday of Advent this year is November30!  We hope many folks will be able to stay after worship to help “hang the greens” and then share in a time of community at coffee hour. It will be a wonderful start to the festive season ahead!

Advent Interlude:

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 2 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!

To Support Elena’s Ministry in Mexico

Dear Friends:

What a blessing to have been with you in mission and ministry! We are grateful for the time we spent with you.

Several of you have asked where to send donations for Elena’s work in Chiapas and Latin America. The best place to send a donation is through the Global Ministries webpage. I have included it below. Please specify “Roots in the Ruins” in the blank section under “Specific Designation.”

Your donation makes a difference today.

Whether it’s a gift that provides support for the overall work of Global Ministries, a mission placement, or one of the over 200 ministries of international partners – your donation is an investment in creating a world where all people and creation share in God’s abundant life. 100% of your gift will be used as designated without administrative or bank fees.

Donate here for Elena’s work

Thank you for your support of Global Ministries, which funds Mission Co-workers all over the world.

Shalom,

Beverly

Updated Directory

There are copies of our updated 2025 Church directory located on the table in the Fellowship Hall. Please plan to take one so that you will have everyone’s current information.

Please note: some of the previous copies had missing pages. Your directory should have 2 pages printed on both sides. If you have one with this error, please grab a new one. Thanks!

White Christmas

Interested in volunteering for White Christmas (12/7)? The sign-up sheets are posted on the sliding wooden doors. Please check them out – and thanks!

Clothing Drive

Clothing Drive for Worcester Fellowship

It is that time again when the Mission Committee in conjunction with church member Shelley Fullam are holding the clothing drive for the folks at Worcester Fellowship Church. They will be collecting NEW socks, underwear, tee shirts, gloves and hats for women, men and kids in all sizes.(I honestly hadn’t realized how important the contributions from our church were to this outreach until I was talking with one of their directors during the summer. She mentioned to me that for a period of time last winter they had no items to distribute to their clients and weren’t sure what they were going to do, then Shelley showed up with the donations from our congregation. They were a lifesaver! – Angela)

The clothing drive will run from November 2nd through December 7th and all donations can be placed in the bucket located in the rear of the sanctuary.

Thanks,

The Mission Committee and Shelley

LITURGISTS NEEDED FOR 2026

The liturgist schedule is being constructed for 2026.  We are looking for folks that would be willing to be a reader.  If you are interested or have any questions, please contact Karen Murphy by December 1^st at:  kmurphy718@charter.net

COFFEE HOUR VOLUNTEERS FOR 2026

Coffee hour is a very special time to fellowship with our church family and friends.  We are putting together the coffee hour schedule for 2026.  Coffee hour consists of set-up, clean-up and supplying food.  We try to incorporate pastries and healthy items in our mix.  We appreciate the help with set-up & clean-up.  However, you are NOT committed to all parts if you are not able.  If you are only able to supply a couple of food items for your scheduled week that would be superb.  You would just need to let us know what parts of the coffee hour you are willing to assist with.  Coffee, creamer & paper products (when used) are supplied.  We schedule 2 people each week, if there is someone special you would like to work with it can be arranged.  There are always extra bodies that hang out for the clean-up.  If you are willing to lend a hand or have any questions, please contact Karen Murphy by December 1^st at:  kmurphy718@charter.net

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.

Donations Welcome

Our thanks to the Sharing Cupboard for donating a case of paper to the church office. It is appreciated!

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. Visit any Wednesday from 3 pm – 6 pm and enjoy a bountiful selection of wonderful fresh foods, farm products and handmade items from local artists and farmers.

Meetings This Week

Search Committee – Friday, November 14th 11:30 pm

Church Council – Sunday, November 16 following worship

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

Pastor Doug’s Office Hours:

Wednesday and Friday from 9:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m

Updated Directory

There are copies of our updated 2025 Church directory located on the table in the Fellowship Hall. Please plan to take one so that you will have everyone’s current information.

White Christmas

Interested in volunteering for White Christmas (12/7)? The sign-up sheets are posted on the sliding wooden doors. Please check them out – and thanks!

Clothing Drive

Clothing Drive for Worcester Fellowship

It is that time again when the Mission Committee in conjunction with church member Shelley Fullam are holding the clothing drive for the folks at Worcester Fellowship Church. They will be collecting NEW socks, underwear, tee shirts, gloves and hats for women, men and kids in all sizes.(I honestly hadn’t realized how important the contributions from our church were to this outreach until I was talking with one of their directors during the summer. She mentioned to me that for a period of time last winter they had no items to distribute to their clients and weren’t sure what they were going to do, then Shelley showed up with the donations from our congregation. They were a lifesaver! – Angela)

The clothing drive will run from November 2nd through December 7th and all donations can be placed in the bucket located in the rear of the sanctuary.

Thanks,

The Mission Committee and Shelley

LITURGISTS NEEDED FOR 2026

The liturgist schedule is being constructed for 2026.  We are looking for folks that would be willing to be a reader.  If you are interested or have any questions, please contact Karen Murphy by December 1^st at:  kmurphy718@charter.net

COFFEE HOUR VOLUNTEERS FOR 2026

Coffee hour is a very special time to fellowship with our church family and friends.  We are putting together the coffee hour schedule for 2026.  Coffee hour consists of set-up, clean-up and supplying food.  We try to incorporate pastries and healthy items in our mix.  We appreciate the help with set-up & clean-up.  However, you are NOT committed to all parts if you are not able.  If you are only able to supply a couple of food items for your scheduled week that would be superb.  You would just need to let us know what parts of the coffee hour you are willing to assist with.  Coffee, creamer & paper products (when used) are supplied.  We schedule 2 people each week, if there is someone special you would like to work with it can be arranged.  There are always extra bodies that hang out for the clean-up.  If you are willing to lend a hand or have any questions, please contact Karen Murphy by December 1^st at:  kmurphy718@charter.net

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.

Donations Welcome

The church office is running low on copy paper. If you would like to donate a ream or a case please let the office know.

Thanks!

Meetings This Week

Nominating Board – Friday, November 7th, 11 am

Pastor Doug’s Office Hours:

Wednesday and Friday from 9:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m

A Couple of Notes from Pastor Doug:

In this month of Thanksgiving, I’d like to offer a special thank you to the ad hoc Stewardship Committee of Terry Hall, Mary Deotte, Dee Blanton, and Angela Carville for organizing this year’s stewardship program, and to Linda Daskowski, Shelly Fullam and Bruce Prestwood-Taylor for their distinctive, personal, and inspiring presentations, during our October worship services, that helped us reflect upon our own stewardship. Thank you as well to all who have made pledges for the year ahead and to those who organized a joyful celebratory coffee hour after worship on October 26.  And of course, pledges are still welcome as we plan for our ministries going forward!

As I write this note, our nation is on the cusp of shutting down SNAP benefits for millions of Americans, including 1 in 7 persons in Massachusetts.  Some of those affected by this shutdown will be folks who also depend upon our Sharing Cupboard for monthly help in feeding themselves and their families.  For any of us who are able, this would be an especially good time to donate to our Sharing Cupboard.

Finally, Karen and I will finally be able to get our Massachusetts drivers licenses this coming week—if all goes well.  We had to book appointments more than five weeks out, and spots were limited, but we’re hoping all will go smoothly first time around!  As a result of those appointments, I will need to change my office hours once again, moving my Wednesday hours to Thursday afternoon, November 6, from 2:30 -5:00 p.m. (Friday morning hours will remain the same).

Updated Directory

There are copies of our updated 2025 Church directory located on the table in the Fellowship Hall. Please plan to take one so that you will have everyone’s current information.

Trick or Treat Donations

Thanks to all of you who generously gave candy for the West Brookfield trick or treaters for Halloween. There is plenty for all of the little goblins and spooks!

White Christmas

Interested in volunteering for White Christmas (12/7)? The sign up sheets are posted on the sliding wooden doors. Please check them out – and thanks!

Clothing Drive

Clothing Drive for Worcester Fellowship

It is that time again when the Mission Committee in conjunction with church member Shelley Fullam are holding the clothing drive for the folks at Worcester Fellowship Church. They will be collecting NEW socks, underwear, tee shirts, gloves and hats for women, men and kids in all sizes.(I honestly hadn’t realized how important the contributions from our church were to this outreach until I was talking with one of their directors during the summer. She mentioned to me that for a period of time last winter they had no items to distribute to their clients and weren’t sure what they were going to do, then Shelley showed up with the donations from our congregation. They were a lifesaver! – Angela)

The clothing drive will run from November 2nd through December 7th and all donations can be placed in the bucket located in the rear of the sanctuary.

Thanks,

The Mission Committee and Shelley

LITURGISTS NEEDED FOR 2026

The liturgist schedule is being constructed for 2026.  We are looking for folks that would be willing to be a reader.  If you are interested or have any questions, please contact Karen Murphy by December 1^st at:  kmurphy718@charter.net

COFFEE HOUR VOLUNTEERS FOR 2026

Coffee hour is a very special time to fellowship with our church family and friends.  We are putting together the coffee hour schedule for 2026.  Coffee hour consists of set-up, clean-up and supplying food.  We try to incorporate pastries and healthy items in our mix.  We appreciate the help with set-up & clean-up.  However, you are NOT committed to all parts if you are not able.  If you are only able to supply a couple of food items for your scheduled week that would be superb.  You would just need to let us know what parts of the coffee hour you are willing to assist with.  Coffee, creamer & paper products (when used) are supplied.  We schedule 2 people each week, if there is someone special you would like to work with it can be arranged.  There are always extra bodies that hang out for the clean-up.  If you are willing to lend a hand or have any questions, please contact Karen Murphy by December 1^st at:  kmurphy718@charter.net

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.

Meetings This Week

Parish Board – Sunday, November 2

Pastor Doug’s Office Hours:

Wednesday and Friday from 9:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m

A Note from Pastor Doug:

Over the course of the past two Sundays in what might be called our “season of stewardship,” Shelley Fullam and Bruce Prestwood-Taylor have articulated beautifully the meaning and importance of faithful stewardship to their journeys as disciples of Jesus–and to ours as well.  Each weekday I receive a “Verse and Voice” meditation from Sojourners, and as we consider the commitments we will make on Stewardship Sunday, October 26, I thought I would share today’s meditation to add to our thought process.  Here it is:

 Verse of the day: Give liberally and be ungrudging when you do so, for on this account the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in all that you undertake. – Deuteronomy 15:10

     Voice of the day: I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.  – Maya Angelou –

      Prayer of the day:  God, let us mirror your unabashed generosity as we lift up our gifts in service.

Grace and peace, Doug

Trick or Treat – Donations are Needed!

We are looking for donations of single wrapped candy for Trick or Treat on Friday October 31st. They can be left on the table in the Fellowship Hall.

If you have questions or you would like to join in the festivities, please see or call Debbie Steltzer at 774-452-2691

Thank you!

Clothing Drive

It is that time again when the Missions Committee in conjunction with Shelley Fullam are holding the clothing drive for the folks at Worcester Fellowship Church. We are collecting NEW socks, underwear, T Shirts, gloves and hats for ladies, men and kids ( all sizes are needed). I honestly hadn’t realised how important that the contributions from our church are to this outreach until I was talking with one of their directors during the summer. She mentioned to me that for a period of time last winter they had no items to distribute to their clients and weren’t sure what they were going to do.. Then  Shelley showed up with the donations from our congregation which was apparently a lifesaver.

The clothing drive will begin November 2nd and end December 7th.

Thanks, on behalf of Missions and Shelley.

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

Meetings This Week

Board of Deacons – Sunday, October 26^th

Pastor Doug’s Office Hours:

Wednesday and Friday from 9:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m