We, the Congregational Church of Grafton,
United Church of Christ,
are an Open and Affirming Church.
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We welcome all into the life, leadership, and ministry of our congregation
Wherever you are in your season of life
wherever you are in your journey of faith
However the church may describe you,
however you may describe yourself
you are welcome to join us on our journey
to be loved by God,
to be loving toward others,
and to follow the teachings of Jesus.​
Mission Statement
(adopted 2/5/23)
We, the Congregational Church of Grafton,
Celebrate God's presence and love,
Connect to God, one another, and the community,
Affirm our journeys and unique gifts,
Share hope, healing, and spiritual growth.
Vision Statement
We envision diverse models that strengthen, broaden and deepen the place of the church in our lives and in our community.
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MUSIC
MINISTRY
"To me, music is my companion.
It flows in me like blood.
It helps me calm my mind.
It helps me pray deeply.
It helps me express what is in my soul."
-- Donna Blanchard,
Former Chairperson of Music Committee
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To those who gather in our church, music gives voice to our hopes, our joys and our sorrows.
Talented musicians play our grand piano and pipe organ for our worship services. We add handbells
for special occasions. We sing together. We bring in special guests and musical groups throughout the year.
We invite friends of all ages and abilities, who sing or play an instrument, to share their gifts and talents with our congregation.
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And Jesus said, "Let the children come to me. And forbid them not, for such is the kingdom of God."
(Matthew 19:14)
CHILDREN, YOUTH & FAMILIES
At the Congregational Church of Grafton, we strive to create programs and opportunities that welcome and support families. The goal of our faith community is to nurture spiritually our children—from cradle to college—through our work and our worship and in our missions and our outreach.
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Children and youth share in our Sunday worship services as Candle Lighters and as participants in our Message for All Ages. Throughout the year, youthful members of our congregation present a Message of Advocacy on a Sunday morning, called YOUTH*SPEAK.
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Seasonal Christian Education programs for children and youth, ages 3 through 18, include:
Hanging of the Greens (Sunday after Thanksgiving; first Sunday of Advent);
Christmas Pageant (third Sunday in December);
Easter Scavenger Hunt (Easter Sunday);
Blessing of the Animals (final Sunday in August).
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Youth, ages 12 through 18, are invited to serve as Candle Lighters for our four-week Advent Wreath tradition and for our Christmas Eve Candlelight Service.
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F.A.C.E. (Faith And Caring Encounter) Group, ages 12 through 17, is a biennial Faith Formation Program. Over the course of five months, F.A.C.E. Group members experience worship in a variety of faith communities as well as engage in service projects and mission work in a variety of local and regional venues.
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Above all, our community of faith welcomes those of all ages to receive and be blessed by the Sacrament of Baptism.
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