Worship is central to life at the First Congregational Church of Reading. Each week we gather as a faith community to share a common experience as we individually and collectively love and magnify God. We invite you to join us this Sunday for a worship service that can provide both a joyous and reflective setting for our busy lives.

Sunday Mornings

Sunday worship begins at the First Congregational Church at 10:00 a.m. As you enter our historic sanctuary, you’ll be greeted and welcomed into our worship of God. The weekly bulletin will guide you through the service which includes:

  • Greetings, announcements and opening worship music.
  • A Time with Young Christians: A chance for children and youth to participate in worship in their own language.
  • Music: The service integrates varied and inspiring music; may include traditional and newer hymns; organ, piano, and instrumental music; as well as musical selections from our chancel, hand bell, children’s and youth choirs.
  • A sermon by one of our Pastors that applies scripture to our everyday lives.
  • Prayers and concerns of our congregation.

Holy Communion

On the first Sunday of each month, we celebrate the Sacrament of Holy Communion. All are invited to take part in Communion.

  • The table is for all persons who acknowledge faith that Jesus Christ, Son of God, is God's sign of redeeming grace.
  • Children are also welcome to take part in communion, according to the customs and preferences of their families.

Baptism

The Sacrament of baptism takes place in our regular worship service when the worshiping congregation both witnesses and pledges support to the one who is baptized and to the family members. Baptism at the First Congregational Church recognizes that one is a Child of God, and a member of the Body of Christ. Contact one our Pastors for more information on baptism.

Special Worship Services

  • Christmas Season – During the Christmas season the First Congregational Church offers several worship services including a traditional youth-led Nativity pageant, a special Christmas music service, an early Christmas Eve Family service, a candlelight Christmas Eve service of lessons and carols at 10 PM and a delightful Christmas carol service on the Sunday after Christmas.
  • Ash Wednesday – Following a supper, we begin the season of Lent with a Service of worship, ashes and Holy Communion.
  • Easter Season – Our Holy Week services begin with a joyous celebration of Palm/Passion Sunday and include a simple community supper followed by a Maundy Thursday service of Tenebrae, an Ecumenical Good Friday service, as well as our glorious family (9 AM) and traditional (11 AM) Easter Worship and Holy Communion. Special Music is woven throughout Holy Week - with music from our chancel and bell choirs and additional musicians.
  • Weddings – Our sanctuary is a beautiful venue for warm and elegant Christian wedding services lead by one of our pastors. Contact our church office for more information about availability.
    
 

Find out about our new pastors