Atkinson Congregational Church, an active house of worship since November of 1772, is celebrating 250 years of existence, and you’re invited! Special events are scheduled to take place at the church Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 19 and 20, in addition to Friday, Nov. 25.
Open House - November 19th
An open house will begin at 3 p.m. on Nov. 19, followed by a 250th anniversary program at 4 p.m. The open house will feature various musical talents including the church’s handbell choir; organ and piano solos by Ann Chalk; the Kokopelli Flute Ensemble; a piano and flute duet by Chalk and Carol Boudreau; and possibly other musical surprises. Attendees will also have the opportunity to experience handbell playing themselves. The anniversary program will feature proclamations and a video dedicated to the church’s milestone anniversary.
Worship Service - November 20th
Sunday worship service on Nov. 20, beginning at 10 a.m., will continue with special music featuring vocal and instrumental choirs. The service, led by Pastor Jim Thomas, will honor the church’s past, highlight its present, and share hopes for its future as “the Light on the Hill.”
Bell Ringing - November 25th
Commemorations will conclude starting at 10 a.m. on Friday the 25th, the day after Thanksgiving, when the church bell will be rung 250 times. That day was selected to honor the same day in 1772, when Stephen Peabody was ordained as the first minister of Atkinson Congregational Church. Everyone is welcome to participate as bell ringers. If interested, please e-mail Lynn at office@atkinsoncc.org. A sign-up sheet is also in Lovejoy Hall at the church, where bell ringers will gather initially on the 25th.
“Atkinson Congregational Church has been such an incredible mainstay all these years, serving people locally and beyond,” said Thomas. “We’re excited to share our rich history and have people from all walks of life join us during this special time of celebration. Although it’s been 250 years, it often feels like we’re just getting started in making positive impacts in the lives of others. The best benefit of all, of course, is our freedom to worship and love God as we do, knowing how much He loves us.”
