First Church

[Update: The purchase of 19 Church Street did close on Jan. 8!] 

On Jan. 7, an informal Congregational meeting considered the status of the property north of the Church at 19 Church Street, which we have contracted to buy.  After a few delays, the closing is expected tomorrow.  Meanwhile, the meeting began the planning process by asking members for suggestions on how the new property might be used to support the Church program.

Some of the ideas that were expressed:

• A larger, more inviting, more flexible Fellowship Hall, with room for performances, innovative worship, larger meetings (e.g., PF), and other uses.
• An attractive parlor / lounge / entry foyer to encourage people to stay, socialize, and participate in education forums after worship.
• Importance of having main spaces on a single floor level for good traffic flow.
• Need for elevator(s) among levels.
• Remodeling of Education building to promote multiple uses - more adult friendly, but also more flexible for Church School.
• Improved parking arrangements, with drop-off circle, access from Church and State streets.

 ...and many more.

More planning events are expected in the coming months.