During the first half century (1793 - 1843) of the life of the Patchogue Congregational Church, there was a gradual evolution and expansion of its activities. On Sundays, the noon recess, with its social lunches between the two long preaching services, was a great value in forming acquaintances and promoting the informal exchange of ideas regarding experimental religion. Social prayer-meetings had been held on week days in the four natural sections of the parish, but Pastor Thomas organized them as regular branches of church work. In 1845, he appointed a committee, called a "Conference committee" in each of the four sections of the parish. The duties of each committee were to conduct local prayer meetings and promote other branches of church work including the investigation of charges against members.  

 

The District Committeemen were active in performing their duties. Sometimes they reported individual cases requiring formal action by the church, and a few backsliders were dropped from the roll; but the principal influence of the committees was the result of conducting local meetings, and of their personal contacts with lukewarm or erring members.

 

Excerpt from The Congregational Church of Patchogue: A History by Frank Overton, M. D. Clerk of the Church, 1943

 

Shirley Werner, Historian