History . . . . .

First Church was organized as the Second Congregational Church of Sutton in the North Parish on September 10, 1747.  The present building was dedicated at Old Common on November 27, 1804.

In June of 1813, when the North Parish of Sutton became the new town of Millbury, Second Church became the First Congregational Church of Millbury.  The building was moved from the Old Common, and dedicated in its present site on January 18,1836.

In 1916 thirty-three stained glass windows were installed and in 1923, a Skinner Organ was added.  The 1938 hurricane destroyed the original steeple, which was promptly replaced.

A three year capital fund drive started in 1997 made it possible to refurbish the exteriors of the parsonage and church and to renovate the church sanctuary and narthex.

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 Traditions . . . . .

On the first Sunday of every month we celebrate the sacrament of the Lord's Supper.  The table is open to all who believe in Jesus Christ.  The deacons and deaconesses of the church will serve you in the pew.

We also honor monthly birthdays with a song and birthday cake at fellowship time on the first Sunday.

Canned goods are collected throughout the month in a wicker basket at the back of the church and taken to the Millbury Food Bank at the beginning of the month.

Baptisms are scheduled at the convenience of the church calendar and the family through the pastor.

 Weddings are also arranged individually.  Membership and attendance are not required but we hope that First Church can be home to many.  Those interested in membership should speak to the pastor or a member of the Diaconate as members are welcomed when there is interest.

Children are always welcome and encouraged in worship all year long.  Sunday School classes are held after the children's story until the end of worship. The classes meet in the church in different locations. Those in second grade receive instruction from the pastor to receive their first communion in November. They also receive their Bible in second grade.

In the fall we have T-shirt Sunday and a trip to Purgatory Chasm.  We plan a Christmas pageant in December.  On the day before Ash Wednesday there is a pancake supper and program to mark the beginning of Lent.  We recognize all our athletes and coaches in April.  The Sunday school program concludes on Pentecost Sunday in May or June.

Other activities include a New Year's day potluck breakfast, Ash Wednesday service at the Federated Church, Men's and Women's communion services and breakfasts in Sutton, Maundy Thursday service, Good Friday meditation, Easter sunrise service with the First Congregational Church in Sutton, a Pentecost service, summer brunches following worship once a month, an Adult Fellowship cookout, Laity Sunday in October and Christmas Eve services.

Fund raising activities to supplement our budget and to provide fellowship include: a clothing and material recycling day in May with a bake sale, a Chicken Bar-B-Q, and a Turkey Raffle. Suppers, flea markets, and fairs are held when there is an interest.

The choir sings from September to June. They practice both traditional and contemporary music on Wednesday nights at 7 p.m.  There are opportunities to sing with larger groups and with the Millbury Ecumenical Choir for special occasions.

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 Organization . . . . .

We are a congregational church that operates in a democratic fashion.  Every person has one vote.  All members and friends are encouraged to share their talents by volunteering from time to time. Members may be asked to serve as officers and on committees.

We hold three quarterly meetings, in April, October and the annual meeting in January.  Everyone is welcome to come and hear the reports of the activity of each committee and vote on matters that are brought before those gathered.  Members and contributing friends are welcome to vote.

The Diaconate is responsible for the spiritual life of the church, worship and membership.

The Executive Board is the steward of our church finances.

The Trustees manage our invested funds.

The Religious Education Board arranges our Sunday School program for the children.

The Mission Committee helps us to minister to the world, through giving and service.

The Stewardship Committee challenges us to make the church a financial and spiritual priority in our lives all year long.

The Music Committee supports the organist and choir for our music program.

The Nominating Committee encourages people to serve the church fellowship in elected positions.

The United Church of Christ is the larger church organization to which we belong.  They assist us in training those who serve the church, both clergy and laity.  Programs and mission opportunities are also made available to us through the United Church of Christ