September 1, 2026 - Happenings

Blessing of the Backpacks


The Blessing of the Backpacks is during worship this Sunday, September 6th.


Kids are welcome to bring a friend. The gifted classical guitarist Doug Schmolze will be providing musical accompaniment.


Once again, the wonderful Rev. Janet McKinstry will be leading worship with Communion. A full and deeply meaningful hour of worship awaits. . .

Berkshire Association Picnic


Next Saturday, September 12, let's gather for the 2nd Annual Berkshire Association All-Church Picnic from 1-4pm at Pittsfield State Forest.


There will be grilled hamburgers and hot dogs, plus cold drinks. Please bring a side, salad or dessert to share. Relax with a good meal and good company, and plan to hike the trails before or after!

Annual Fall Picnic


It's almost time for the Annual Fall Picnic at the Bennett Farm!


The picnic is coming up next Sunday, September 13 starting at noon.


Meat will be provided. Please bring something to share at this yearly fun gathering!

Lich Gate Concert


Lich Gate Concerts will present an enchanting afternoon of chamber music for strings on Saturday, September 19 at 4pm at Old Parish. Whether you are a seasoned music aficionado or a newcomer eager to explore the world of live performances, Lich Gate Concerts offers a diverse array of experiences tailored to your interests.


New York-based musicians, Jorge Ávila, Violin I; Nelly Kim, Violin II; Orlando Wells, Viola; and Sarah Hewitt-Roth, Cello, will be joined by guest artist Grey Fulmer, Double Bass. They will play a program of music composed by Ludwig van Beethoven, Coleridge-Taylor Perkinson, Caroline Shaw, Luigi Boccerini and Antonín Dvořák.



Immerse yourself in the exceptional artistry of this distinguished ensemble as they present the elegance and complexity of chamber music. Old Parish Church's intimate atmosphere offers an ideal acoustic environment. This promises to be a remarkable afternoon!

Fall All-Church Conversations

on Congregational Purpose


Save the dates for the upcoming Fall Congregation-wide Conversations on Purpose and Ministry!


These conversations will help our congregation be clear about what God is calling us to be and do, and to serve well for the next 3-5 year period.


Your presence will be important at these three sessions: September 27, October 4, and October 25, 11:30am-1:30pm.


Because each session builds on the previous one, please make every effort to attend all three.

Steeple Lighting


The Steeple is lit for the month of September by Rose Glaszcz in loving memory of her aunt, Alicia "Dolly" Brazie.


Future Steeple Lighting Sponsorships are available starting in 2027.


It is a lovely way to honor a friend, an occasion, a memory or loved one.


Thank you for your generosity in giving toward the ministries of this church. Love flows because of you!


Financial donations are welcome during Sunday worship, via the donate button here, or by mail:



First Congregational Church of Sheffield

PO Box 387

Sheffield, MA 01257


Upcoming Dates


Pastor Jill is on vacation through Sept. 8 Cara Davis is on call in case of pastoral emergencies

Sunday, September 6 Blessing of the Backpacks during worship with Rev. Janet McKinstry

Thursday, September 10 – 4:30pm, Deacons Meeting

Saturday, September 12 –1:00pm-4:00pm, Berkshire Association Picnic

Sunday, September 13 – noon, Annual Fall Picnic at the Bennett Farm

Thursday, September 17 – 10:30am, Council Meeting

Sunday, September 27 – 11:30am-1:30pm, Congregational Conversation with lunch (1 of 3)


Ongoing

Sunday evenings – 7:00pm, AA meditation group in Parish Hall

Mondays – 9:00am, Sheffield Food Assistance Program

Wednesdays – 5:00pm, Weekly Zoom Social Hour

Every other Thursday – 10:20am, Bi-weekly double content packing for Village Family Food Distribution

Fridays – 7:00pm, ACA Twelve Step meeting in Parish Hall

125 Main Street

PO Box 387

Sheffield MA 01257

413-229-8173 

 office@firstuccsheffield.org

 grahamj@firstuccsheffield.org


You are invited to worship with us.

10:00 Sunday mornings in person and via Zoom.

visit our website for more info.



We are an Open and Affirming Congregation

of The United Church of Christ