Rally Day this Sunday at the First Congregational Church launches the church’s programs for children, youth and adults with a festive picnic on the West Lane lawn after worship. Activities for children include bounce houses and other games.
Members and friends will gather for worship in the newly renovated sanctuary of the historic 1888 church building by the fountain. The just-completed work includes refinished floors and wood surfaces, new carpeting and pew cushions, restored stained glass windows, and a remodeled lavatory. Pastor Charles Hambrick-Stowe’s sermon is titled “Faith for the Family.”
The congregation will also welcome representatives of a number of its mission partners from the greater Danbury-Norwalk area, including men of Pivot Ministries, Athletes of Christ, and other Christian social service agencies associated with Jericho Partnership.
Pastor Hambrick-Stowe said, “We hope members and others from the Ridgefield community will get to know our mission partners more deeply, as we support them both financially and with our volunteer involvement.”
At the picnic, which begins at 11:15 a.m., various groups and ministries of the church will have tables and booths set up featuring information on opportunities for all ages for learning, fellowship and service. “There will be something for children and adults alike,” said Associate Minister Karen Halac.
The renovation of the sanctuary is part of the church’s master plan for a major expansion and makeover of its facilities, with construction scheduled to begin in 2015. The master plan was developed to enable the congregation, which celebrated its 300th anniversary two years ago, to plan for more effective and faithful service to the Ridgefield community and surrounding area for the current and next generation.
Visitors are always welcome at the First Congregational Church, located by the fountain at the intersection of Main Street and West Lane. Worship is at 8:30 and 10 on Sunday mornings. For more information, visit the church website at firstcongregational.com or call the church office at 203-438-8077.