Book Group

Tuesday, February 4, at 7:30 PM on Zoom

We’re reading “Destiny of the Republic” by Candice Millard. The extraordinary account of James Garfield’s rise from poverty to the American presidency, and the dramatic history of his assassination and legacy. Email the office at office@churchofreading.org to get the Zoom link.…

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Souper Bowl Game Night at FCCR!

February 8th, 5:00 – 8:00 PM

Did you have a blast at the fall Homecoming Dinner/Trivia Night?  Did you miss out and are you anxiously awaiting the next game night?

On February 8th, from 5:00 – 8:00 PM, we are having a “Souper Bowl Game Night” in the Dining Hall. The meal itself will be somewhat based on a “soup supper” and the event will also include games and activities for all ages.  Come enjoy soup, chili, macaroni and cheese, salad, breads, desserts, and more!  Adults can learn to play Crazy Whist, while the young, or young at heart, will have the option of games such as Uno or Connect Four, and simple children’s crafts.  There will be fun for all ages!  Families are encouraged to attend.  This event is not for the general public, however friends and relatives of church attendees are more than welcome to join.

The link below will allow you to sign up to bring food for this potluck-style meal, if you wish.

https://www.perfectpotluck.com/XPIV1177

Transportation will be provided!  The organizers are emphatic about this so that all may participate. If you would like a ride, do not hesitate to contact the church office. A ride will then be coordinated for you based on the area/town in which you live.

We greatly look forward to a shared meal with laughs and entertainment during the long winter months.  

Hope to see you there!

Your Souper Bowl Game Night Team…

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January Mission

Hygiene Kits for Department of Children and Families

The Mission and Social Action Ministry reached out to the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to discuss their current needs.  The DCF asked that our church, and the attendees of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service, collect items for hygiene kits.  (You may recall that in years past we collected pajamas, socks, and underwear for the DCF in the month of January.)

Items may be dropped off in the Mission collection bin in the Sanctuary or when you attend the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service on the morning of Saturday, January 18th.

Here is the very specific list of needs:

  • Shampoo and conditioner for babies, children, and young adults
  • Shampoo and conditioner for curly hair
  • Body wash for children and young adults
  • Toothbrushes and toothpaste for infants and toddlers
  • Loofas
  • Lotion for infants, children, and young adults
  • Deodorant
  • Hairbrushes, picks, combs
  • Silk sleeping caps
  • Diaper cream

I recently was in Reading’s new Dollar Tree store while a couple, representing a food pantry, was purchasing items in bulk (20 of each item). This may be a good spot to stock up for the DCF as well.

With many thanks for supporting the vulnerable children of our local communities – The Mission and Social Action Ministry

Click here to learn more about the DCF

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Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service

This MLK Day of Service is shaping up to be a great event! There are some old favorite projects, plus new opportunities. Volunteers should plan to start at FCCR at 9:00am for a brief ceremony (plus coffee and snacks). Then volunteers can disperse to their chosen activities, either at FCCR or offsite. We hope you will review and share this information. Sign up for any activities you are interested in doing. Our off-site projects require registration.

Click here to sign up.

There are two worthy collections: toiletries for youth in DCF care, and food for the Reading Food Pantry. Please review each organization’s list of needs. The Director of the Food Pantry will be volunteering with us on that Saturday, and she would be delighted to talk with you about the Pantry and its mission. We will be collecting donations at the MLK event and making sure it gets to the proper location.

Our two offsite projects, both located in Reading, are also wonderful ways to help our neighbors. One is at Sawtelle Family Hospice House, where basic handy-person help is needed, and one is at Solstice House at Riverbend, where they need organizational help with their donation room.

If you have any questions, please contact ReadingCares01867@gmail.com

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Christmas at First Congregational Church

Christmas Eve Services

Join us at the following times to celebrate the birth of Christ:

  • 5 PM – Festive traditional Lessons & Carols service with Handbells, Candlelight & Silent Night
  • 11 PM – A quieter, more meditative service with the Chancel Choir, Candlelight, and Silent Night

Sunday, December 29

Join us on the Sunday after Christmas for a Carol Sing Sunday. 

Epiphany Sunday January 5

We celebrate the magi who followed the star to Bethlehem with Communion and a special unrehearsed “Christmas Pick-Up Pageant” – all ages are invited to come early for a part and to get a costume to help tell the story!…

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Tuesday, December 10

Let’s Talk and Women ‘n Stitches

Let’s Talk: Looking to connect with others and engage in conversation? Join us for our monthly conversation group on Tuesday, December 10th at 1:30 PM in the Parlor. All are welcome to participate, regardless of background or interest. Come share your thoughts, ideas, and experiences with fellow community members.

Women ‘n Stitches: Are you a skilled sewist or looking to learn a new craft? Join our Women ‘n Stitches group on Tuesday, December 10th at 7:15 PM in room 17. We gather to create beautiful quilts and other charitable items. Last year, we proudly donated 26 dresses to Dress a Girl Around the World. Currently, we’re focused on crafting church valances and quilts. All necessary supplies and sewing machines are provided.

For more information or to sign up, please contact the church office.…

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