First Congregational Church of Reading, Reading, MA
Pillars & Foundations documents an exploration of communities, as well as faith through religious institutions. My intent is to share experiences, and spread the positivity that I observe. The hope is to provide a window into these organizations allowing those who might not other wise venture in to appreciate these thoughtful, often intimate groups in our midst. Faith centers embody a drive to make a difference which they deliver upon, regardless if it is with one person looking for hope & community, or a recipient of their expansive charitable work.
Building & History
First Congregational became a separate entity from two neighboring churches in Wakefield and North Reading in 1770. While the current granite building built in 1910, is the fourth meeting place of this congregation, the organization itself is older than the country it resides in. The current church's architectural style is described as Collegiate Gothic by an informative history web page. This style of architecture is described in Wikipedia as having influences of English Tudor and Gothic buildings and unsurprisingly mentions its popular use in American education buildings.
I was very lucky to have a gentleman by the name of Everett take me into the main sanctuary even though summer services are held in the chapel. He went a little bit into the history of the area, briefly described how the stained glass windows are slightly newer than the building, and consequentially dedicated to various members or prominent benefactors. I was informed that one such member was a distinguished member of the Odd Fellows fraternity that at one time was one of the largest of its kind, and one of the first that accepted women as well. Many of the windows weren't added until the 1960s according to the website. Modifications continued to the building including an education wing and the chapel built in 1959, where today's service was held.
Apparently Reading, MA was once known for manufacturing organ pipes as well, however the organ in First Congregational did not originate from the Pierce Organ Pipe factory. It makes me curious about how many other churches in the area may still have such hardware potentially from Reading.
| There's something very peaceful about the grounds, the green stands in stark contrast to the grey of the stormy day of my visit. |
| Some of the many beautiful windows of the church, plaques of dedication are situated on the sills. |
The Congregation
One of the first moments of the service was the passing of the peace, and everyone took time to greet all guests. I am always struck by witnessing and participating in these greetings, how the congregation is certainly a group of well-acquainted friends. When requests for prayers were made, it was clear that there was intimate concern for each other across the congregation. And it also became evident that the church is active in the community as they discussed fundraisers and support for community members that may need various forms of assistance.
First Congregational Church of Reading is an open and affirming member of the UCC affiliation.
| A view towards the chancel, the door to the left shows the scale, and the organ pipes can be seen to the right |
The Service was described as a do it yourself (DIY) service, because congregants all took roles upon themselves with the exception of a sermon focused around Ephesians 2:11-22. This scripture is all about how Chris was uniting people of differences. In the scripture it specifically is Jews and Gentiles, but it speaks to the need to reconcile hostilities. In an often divided world differences are either overlooked, or avoided, and the message of Rev. Lisa Stedman's service is that we need to try to find something to love in those who are different. It is in tune with the church's welcoming statement which includes the words "We welcome and embrace all people—people of all races, ethnicities and ages; mental, emotional and physical abilities; gender identities and sexual orientation; economic and social standings, and family and religious traditions."
The service was filled with beautiful piano accompaniment of Jill Lauterwasser, and traditional hymns such as Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise, which were strongly sung by the congregants.
Rev. Lisa played a wooden Native American flute during the offering. During the social time following the service she told me that it had been purchased on a recent vacation and she was finding playing it a very calming hobby. Most amusing was the antidote that her dog loved the flute music and often will request it.
The service concluded with the more contemporary hymn "May You Run and Not be Weary," by Paul Murakami and Handt Hanson, which Rev. Lisa described as one of her favorites.
| Gorgeous nave, the pews continue above in the balcony which appears more likely used for additional seating than a choir loft as many churches have. |
| The chapel is understated. I very much enjoyed some windows located high up to the left where the green blowing leaves of a maple seemed to add to the contemplative state of an intimate service filled with opportunities to reflect. |
Outreach
First Congregational Church of Reading gives back to the community in many ways. The building is used for various activities, from summer camp, to SAT preparatory activities, to activities such as Zumba and yoga. Hindu prayer service as well as meditation are also held at the church.
The church website lists various opportunities for outreach including Habitat for Humanity, the Reading Food Pantry (which was specifically mentioned during my visit), Rosie's Place which helps feed those in need, the Interfaith Counseling Service of Reading, as well as many other organizations.
The church has various ministries such as the Congregational Care Ministry which aims to keep members who are home bound for various reasons connected to the church.
It is clear that the generosity and compassion of this church enriches Reading and the surrounding communities.
Text and photographs by George Parks
Sources are embedded in links
