Blessing of the Backpacks

Bring your children and their school backpacks to worship this Sunday, September 2, for a special blessing and the kick-off of Sunday School. It’s a wonderful way for the church to show them how much we love them, and for the kids to get lots of encouragement and support as they begin the school year.

Worship begins at 10:30 a.m. Hope to see you there!

Phil Ochs Song Night

The Daily Hampshire Gazette made a BIG mistake in yesterday’s paper, reporting that the Phil Ochs Song Night here at First Church is June 1. It is NOT. The concert, which is sponsored by Sonny Ochs and Mount Toby Friends Concerts, is NEXT Friday, June 8.
We are very sorry for any confusion (though we had nothing to do with it). Please share this word with anyone you know who is interested: Do not come to the church on the evening of June 1; the concert is at 7 p.m. on Friday, June 8. Thank you!

Tour de Quabbin on May 28

Like to bike? Join us for a ride on Memorial Day!

Youth Group receives the ION award

The Joan Lindeman Award was given to the First Church Youth Group on May 6.

NoHo Pride Parade and Festival

Saturday, May 5.

Book Group begins April 18

Come on Wednesday evenings to discuss Kate Bowler’s “Everything Happens for a Reason: And Other Lies I’ve Loved.”

Family retreat on Cape Cod

First Church families spend a weekend together in Craigville

Holy Week at First Church Amherst

During Holy Week, all the hopes and prayers of Lent are fulfilled–even as Jesus is sentenced to death on a cross. We have several special services to help open our hearts to the sacredness of the journey and the fullness of and hope of new life. We would love to see you at one or all of them.

Our building is fully accessible–from the parking lot behind the building, via a ramp and a lift to the main floor, and through the front door of the building on Main Street. As always, no matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, we affirm you for all you are, and you are welcome to all aspects of church life.

Here’s our Holy Week schedule:

Palm/Passion Sunday, March 25: Worship with communion, Sunday School and nursery at 10:30 a.m.

Maundy Thursday, March 29:

Service of Foot-washing: 5:15 p.m.

Simple Supper: 6 p.m.

      Service of Tenebrae: 7 p.m.

Good Friday, March 30: Ecumenical Community Service at noon

Easter Sunday, April 1: Worship with Communion, Choir, Balloons, Sunday School, nursery, and lots of joy at 10:30. An egg hunt for children follows the service.