ATKINSON, N.H., April 27, 2021 – As spring and summer bring warmer weather, Atkinson Congregational Church is planning to hold in-person worship services on a semi-regular basis – in the church’s outdoor sanctuary, while also broadcasting services live on Zoom and Facebook.
“We’re fortunate that the church offers an idyllic outdoor space on the property that works well for Sunday services,” said Pastor Jim Thomas. “Although we’ll still be requiring mask wearing and social distancing, the prospect of simply gathering together on occasional Sundays is a meaningful step toward returning fully to in-person worship. We expect to increase our hybrid services over the summer.”
The next hybrid services – offering both online and in-person worship simultaneously – is expected to take place May 2 and May 9, 2021, weather permitting. Communion will be offered May 2, with in-person attendees receiving individual, pre-packaged, juice and bread. May 9, Mother’s Day, will include a baptism. Mothers and others who share that role are invited to wear hats – now an ACC tradition on Mother’s Day. For all outdoor services, congregants are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs. A schedule will be announced for hybrid services in June, as the month approaches.
Atkinson Congregational Church, affectionately known as the Light on the Hill, has been welcoming all people since 1772, when Stephen Peabody, brother-in-law to John Adams, became the church’s first pastor. Today, Jim Thomas serves as pastor and spiritual leader. Regular Sunday services are held at 10 a.m., online only on most Sundays due to COVID-19, with occasional outdoor worship options announced in advance. Sunday services may also be viewed on the Atkinson Community Television channel (ACTV) at 5 p.m. Sundays, 7 a.m. Tuesdays and 8:30 a.m. Wednesdays. For more information on the church; how to view services online; or how to receive the church’s weekly e-newsletter, please visit atkinsoncc.org or call 603-362-5519.
