What does it mean when you say you are “Open, Welcoming and Affirming”?
It means you are welcomed and beloved here no matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey. For decades, First Church has been a local beacon of tolerance and radical hospitality. We invite you to come exactly as you are and be part of our God-loving community. We welcome people of all ages, races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, physical, mental and emotional abilities, incomes and education levels, because all people are made in God’s holy image.
When is Worship?
Each Sunday we offer a 1 hour worship service at 10 am in our Meetinghouse (Sanctuary). We also offer a 50 minute worship service on Sundays at 8 am from September - April in the Micah Chapel. If you are visiting for the first time, we encourage you to arrive early. Our ushers will greet you, give you directions, and help you find a seat. Our 10 am worship service is also live streamed on our Youtube channel, and past services are available to watch.
What happens during Worship?
Our worship services are dynamic and ever changing - offering a mix of group and individual prayer, communal singing, choral music and solo performances, handbell music, a children’s message, and a pastoral message. Worship also sometimes includes liturgical drama, multimedia presentations, puppet performances, baptisms, storytelling, and more. We serve communion to all who want to take part on the first Sunday of each month.
Do you offer Childcare or Sunday School?
Childcare is available between 9 am - 11:30 am on Sunday mornings in the Crib and Toddler room with our nursery care provider Ms. Cheryl and our dedicated volunteers. Church school is offered for children in Preschool through 8th grade. Children begin the worship service in the Meetinghouse and then go to church school after the children’s message. Our Meetinghouse has children’s worship bags with activities to help keep kids interested and engaged.
What should I wear?
Whatever feels comfortable! Some folks show up to church in their “Sunday best” while others are here in a t-shirt and jeans, shorts or leggings.
What happens after Worship?
After the 10 am service, everyone is invited to a social time of fellowship in Schultz Hall. This is a great time to meet and get to know people. Members of our congregation serve coffee, juice and sometimes snacks. A Welcome Table offers information about our church for visitors.
What other Programs do you offer for Adults and Kids?
What if I have accessibility needs?
Our building has a wheelchair accessible ramp to the Meetinghouse and spaces for wheelchairs among the pews. An elevator accesses every level of the building and our main bathrooms are handicapped accessible. There is storage space for walkers and canes. Ushers can provide large print bulletins and hearing assistance devices for worship, or connect your hearing aides to our audio system via Bluetooth. If you have another need, please contact us to let us know how we can support your visit to First Church.
How can I get more information?
Call the main office at 860-633-4641 or use our online Contact form.
When does your church celebrate communion?
We celebrate communion during our worship services on the first Sunday of each month and some of our special celebration services.
What denomination are you?
First Church is a historic Congregational church and part of the United Church of Christ. Our motto is “No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.”
Where do I Park?
We have a large parking lot behind our main building with designated spots for handicapped accessible parking (in blue) and visitor parking. During busy services we overflow into the Glastonbury Town Hall parking lot.
Do I have to sing?
Do what feels comfortable, but we hope you’ll add your voice to the diverse chorus here.
Do you expect me to give to the offering?
There’s no “fee” to participate in our church community. Our work and ministry is supported by the financial pledges and gifts of our community members. We do pass the offering plate in worship. Not everyone is able to give, and many people who do give do so electronically, so there’s no judgment or expectation when it goes around.