Who Are We?
First, we are Christians. We believe that God’s love for us is most clearly shown in Jesus Christ our savior. We remember his sacrificial death on the cross and celebrate his resurrection from the dead. We affirm the Trinity. We believe in the God of creation, that God came among us in Jesus Christ, and that God’s presence is still among us in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Second, we are Protestants. We believe in the central place of scripture for our faith and practice. We look to scripture prayerfully and thoughtfully, interpreting the ancient texts for today’s challenges.
Third, we are from the Congregational tradition. We believe that God speaks to all of us, if we choose to listen. That means that each person should have a voice in the life of the church. The decisions of the church are not made by a hierarchy, but by the people. The policies of the church are formed by meetings of the church members and by the committees of the church, which include the Deacons, the Trustees, the Christian Education Committee, the Mission and Outreach Committee, and the Church Council.
Fourth, we are a diverse people. We come from varied backgrounds. We also have different religious roots. There is strength in our diversity as we serve together.
Worship
Our Sunday morning worship is held at 9:30 AM year-round. The sacrament of Communion is celebrated on the first Sunday of the month. Our Communion Table is open to all that seek to follow Jesus. We receive Communion by the intinction method, in which each worshiper dips a piece of the bread into the cup and consumes both together. Special worship services are held for Maundy Thursday, Easter Sunrise and Christmas Eve.
On Sunday mornings, families begin by worshipping together in our sanctuary. After the Children’s Story the children are dismissed to their Sunday School classes. Nursery care is available during Sunday morning worship services.
Baptisms are usually held during the Sunday morning worship service.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Monday, May 10, 2010
Sunday, May 9, 2010
History of Our Church
The Third Meeting HouseHistory of Our Church
The First Congregational Church of Raynham is commonly known as The Stone Church because of its field stone exterior. However, the church had a long history before the current building was completed in 1915!
Our history reaches back in to the great history of the Christian Church, along the branch of the Protestant Reformation that is best known by the Pilgrims who settled at Plymouth in 1620. These people, along with those who settled around Boston a decade later, were called Puritans because of a desire to purify the Church of England, which had been their “Mother Church”. Settling in New England, they endured great difficulties, but also began to prosper. These Puritans began to spread across Massachusetts, founding new towns in the wilderness.
The area now known as Raynham was once a part of Taunton, which was settled beginning in 1637. The Iron Forge, established by the Leonard family in 1652, provided employment in this region for over two centuries. The people who lived in this area considered the journey to Church Green in Taunton for Sunday worship services too long and in 1727 they petitioned to have their own church closer to home. That petition was rejected. Persistence on their part paid off since in 1731 they were granted permission to form a separate town and instructed to provide for a church and a school teacher. The church was officially established on October 19, 1731 and Rev. John Wales was ordained as its first Pastor the next day.
The first church building (known as the Meeting House in the old days) was located along Richmond Street, not far from the Iron Forge. In the 1760’s this was replaced by a new building on the present lot at Raynham Center. This church was originally built without a steeple, which was added some years later. When the church people decided to replace the second building in the 1830’s, the town expressed an interest in the old building. However, some of the church people wanted no part of that plan. Late one night they detached the steeple from the building and dropped it to the ground. The town protested, but did not block the demolition of the remainder of the building.
The third Meeting House stood on the corner in Raynham Center until July 22, 1913. On that day a fire in a shed belonging to a nearby blacksmith shop spread from building to building. The church was completely destroyed. The people of the church were determined to rebuild, but decided that a stone exterior might provide better fire protection. The Stone Church was dedicated on April 1, 1915. Over the years a few major changes have been made. The original flat roof on the steeple created a water problem that was corrected when the peak was added in 1938. The people of the church dug out the cellar of the church and hand poured a concrete floor to provide Sunday School space. The sanctuary was remodeled in 1965, forming the present “split chancel.”
A very successful capital campaign that ran from 1997 to 2000 provided for more improvements, including an expanded parking lot.
The church, like many others, experienced ups and downs throughout its history. Early on in the church history it received a flood of new members as the Great Awakening stirred religious sentiment across New England. Two centuries later, during the Great Depression, the church considered closing, but voted to carry on. Today the church is a healthy, vibrant community of believers.
Finding itself cramped for space, the congregation began construction of an addition in late 2006 on the back part of the present building. This addition was dedicated in September of 2007. The addition features a large fellowship hall, a new kitchen, new office space, handicap accessible restrooms upstairs and down, a new nursery and a lift that provides access for those who have difficulty with stairs.
Our church history was covered in much more detail in the book If These Stones Could Speak published by the church in 1994. Copies are still available from the church.
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Our Church Building
The "Stone Church" in 2001
A winter view of the church
Construction in early 2007
Our New Addition 2007Friday, May 7, 2010
Music at the Stone Church
Music has always been an important part of worship and the life of the church. So it's not a surprise that music is a very important part of the life of the First Congregational Church of Raynham. Our congregation loves to sing, accompanied by Mike Conrad on the organ, who also accompanies our choirs.
We have three choirs at First Congregational Church:
The Senior Choir, an adult choir, performs most Sundays and also performs a cantata at Christmas time and on Palm Sunday. This choir is directed by Carolyn Conrad.
The Stone Church Ringers, our bell choir, adds beauty to our worship about once a month. This talented group has given several special concerts and is also directed by Carolyn Conrad.
The Junior Choir, our children's choir, sings once about once a month from September through May under the direction of Judy Niles.
During the Advent Season we present special musical events on Sunday evenings.
One of the musical highlights of the year is the Stone Church Summer Concert Series. These concerts, held on Wednesday evenings, feature eclectic musical presentations that range from classical to jazz and folk. These concerts are supported in part by a grant from the Raynham Cultural Council and the Massachusetts Cultural Council.
You can hear our Senior Choir singing the Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's Messiah from December 2008:
Hallelujah Chorus
Here is a recording of the Stone Ringers playing "All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name" from December 2008:
All Hail the Power
You can listen to the Stone Ringers playing Friendly Beasts on our new hand chimes Dec. 13, 2009:
Friendly Beasts
Christmas Cantata 2009
After being snowed out on Dec. 20, The First Congregational Church Choir presented Joseph Martin's Christmas Cantata "The Mystery and the Majesty" on Dec. 27.
You can listen to one of the songs from the Cantata here:
Advent Jubilation
For Holy Week 2010 the Senior Choir presented Pepper Choplin's cantata "We Were There." You can hear an excerpt here:
We Were There
Come to our 9:30 AM Sunday worship and enjoy the music!
We have three choirs at First Congregational Church:
The Senior Choir, an adult choir, performs most Sundays and also performs a cantata at Christmas time and on Palm Sunday. This choir is directed by Carolyn Conrad.
The Stone Church Ringers, our bell choir, adds beauty to our worship about once a month. This talented group has given several special concerts and is also directed by Carolyn Conrad.
The Junior Choir, our children's choir, sings once about once a month from September through May under the direction of Judy Niles.
During the Advent Season we present special musical events on Sunday evenings.
One of the musical highlights of the year is the Stone Church Summer Concert Series. These concerts, held on Wednesday evenings, feature eclectic musical presentations that range from classical to jazz and folk. These concerts are supported in part by a grant from the Raynham Cultural Council and the Massachusetts Cultural Council.
You can hear our Senior Choir singing the Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's Messiah from December 2008:
Here is a recording of the Stone Ringers playing "All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name" from December 2008:
You can listen to the Stone Ringers playing Friendly Beasts on our new hand chimes Dec. 13, 2009:
Christmas Cantata 2009
After being snowed out on Dec. 20, The First Congregational Church Choir presented Joseph Martin's Christmas Cantata "The Mystery and the Majesty" on Dec. 27.
You can listen to one of the songs from the Cantata here:
For Holy Week 2010 the Senior Choir presented Pepper Choplin's cantata "We Were There." You can hear an excerpt here:
Come to our 9:30 AM Sunday worship and enjoy the music!
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Live Nativity
Click image to enlargeIn December of 2007 the Stone Church wanted to give a Christmas gift to the community. The Live Nativity was that gift. Our attempt to recreate the sights, sounds and even the smells of Bethlehem at the time of Christ's birth was well received. Perhaps the best review came from a child who said to his mother as they were leaving, "I saw Jesus!"
The Live Nativity returned in 2008 despite frigid cold and high wind. Even with the disagreeable weather, more than 600 people visited our village. Our hope is that they all saw something of the wonderful gift of God in the birth of Jesus that night.
Live Nativity December 6, 2009
More than 500 people visited our 2009 depiction of Bethlehem! It was chilly, but with calm winds. It was a beautiful night!
The Enterprise covered our Live Nativity:
Raynham Church Recreates Bethlehem
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Business Directory
Business cards from some of our church people.
Click on the cards for a larger view.
Click on the cards for a larger view.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Donations
Donations to support the work and ministry of the First Congregational Church of Raynham are fully tax deductible.
Please mail donations to:
First Congregational Church of Raynham
785 South Main Street
Raynham, MA 02767
Monday, May 3, 2010
Links
Our Denomination: The United Church of Christ
Our Conference: Massachusetts Conference UCC
Our Association: Old Colony Association UCC
Greater Taunton Clergy Association
Rev. Tilbe serves as the Chief Chaplain of the Massachusetts Corps of Fire Chaplains.
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Archive of Past Events
Memories of some past events at the Stone Church
2013
2012
Taunton Daily Gazette Story on the Live Nativity:
http://www.tauntongazette.com/news/x719503786/Living-Nativity-in-Raynham-offers-perspective-on-Christmas-holiday
Taunton Daily Gazette Photos from the Live Nativity:
http://www.tauntongazette.com/photos/x719503784/Raynhams-Stone-Church-holds-Living-Nativity
Church Annual Meeting January 27
The Annual Meeting of the First Congregational Church of Raynham, UCC, will be held after worship on Sunday, January 27. At that time a budget for the year 2013 will be adopted and officers and committees for the coming year will be elected. All members of the church are urged to attend!
CORVETTE RAFFLE!
2011
Brunch With Charles Dickens
Our third Charles Dickens gathering was held on Sunday, November 27 at 11 AM. The church choir sang "Twas the Night Before Christmas", a song that certainly pleased the capacity crowd. A delicious buffet brunch was served under the direction of Chef Wanda Hanson. After the meal was served Charles Dickens arrived to read excerpts from his classic "A Christmas Carol". The crowd then enjoyed singing a selection of Christmas carols under the direction of Lori Sylvia.
Taunton Daily Gazette Story on the Brunch
Taunton Daily Gazette Photos of Dickens Brunch
Raynham Call Photos of Dickens Brunch
The Inspiring Story of Our Friend Kim in the Raynham Call
SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
Our Summer Concert Series will run on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 PM on July 20, 27, August 3 and 10. Programs will include returning favorites and some new musical treats for you! We plan to have the August 3 concert on the front lawn of the church, weather permitting, so be sure to bring your chairs. Hot dogs and soda will be available for sale that evening. Click on the image above for the full schedule.
Check out these Taunton Daily Gazette pictures from our Summer Concerts: Taunton City Band:
Taunton City Band
Tornadoes
Rev. Tilbe returned from a two week deployment to Joplin, Missouri with the American Red Cross. He was involved in providing spiritual care to those affected by the terrible tornado that struck that city, killing 158 people. How ironic that while he traveled to Joplin there was tornado damage in western and central Massachusetts!
Our prayers go out for all who suffered from the terrible storms that have created such havoc and destruction.
Massachusetts Conference UCC has created a fund to aid people and churches affected by the June 1 tornado in Massachusetts. Donations may be made through the following link:
Tornado Help
4th Annual Strawberry Festival
The church held a Strawberry Festival on Saturday June 11. Our thanks go out to everyone who made it possible!
2010
The snow makes a beautiful scene with our huge Christmas Tree
December Snow
Thankfully the snow waited until after Christmas Eve! This storm left quite a pile of snow behind, and draped the church in beauty.
Our regular Sunday Worship Service will be held on January 2 at 9:30 AM.
The Sunday School will be stretching the season out a bit further, holding their Epiphany Celebration on January 9.
The Junior Choir Singing Christmas Eve
"Winter's Grace" A Cantata for Christmas December 19
The Senior Choir performed Joseph Martin's cantata "Winter's Grace" on Sunday, December 19 during the 9:30 AM worship service. The Cantata was repeated at 7:00 PM that evening for our friends and neighbors. This cantata is filled with wonderful music for the Advent and Christmas seasons, with a message of hope and peace in Jesus. You can listen to a sample, a quiet version of Silent Night, by clicking the link:
Silent Night
Wildwood Strings Perform Sunday, December 12 at 7:00 PM
The Wildwood String Quartet, which includes four local women (Paula Boyle, Louise Brady, Carolyn Conrad and Mary Ann Nichols Hubbard) performed at the Stone Church on Sunday, December 12 at 7:00 PM. An appreciative crowd enjoyed some wonderful seasonal music!
Click here for Taunton Daily Gazette photos
The Magi Offer Their Gifts as the Shepherds Look On
The Manger Scene with Paul Peterson Serenading
The Census Taker's Long List
LIVE NATIVITY Sunday December 5
On a beautiful December evening the Stone Church depiction of Bethlehem at the time Jesus was born was viewed by hundreds of people. We are thankful for all church people who helped build and occupy our Bethlehem village!
The Raynham Call's photo gallery can be found here:
Live Nativity
Mr. Dickens Checks the Time before His Reading
An Afternoon Tea with Charles Dickens
A Reading from
“A Christmas Carol”
Charles Dickens returned to the Stone Church for another reading of his "Christmas Carol" on Sunday, November 28. A festive crowd greeted Mr. Dickens, played by Rev. Tilbe, as they kicked off the holiday season with the ghostly tale of redemption.
Raynham Call Photos of Mr. Dickens' Reading
Christmas Tree Lighting
Tree Lighting November 28
The 18 foot Christmas Tree in front of the church was officially lit with song, cocoa and a joyful crowd on November 28. Our thanks go to everyone who made this possible!
2009
An Afternoon Tea With Charles Dickens
Tea, goodies, a reading from Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" plus some Christmas music made for an enjoyable afternoon on November 29.
The Taunton Gazette has photos from the afternoon:
Delving Into Dickens
2010
Best Pizza in Raynham
The results are in from the "Raynham’s Best Pizza Contest." Cape Cod Cafe on Broadway won the March 14, 2010 contest, receiving the most votes from our tasters. We want to thank each of the pizza makers who participated: Cape Cod Pizza, Great American Pub, Piezonis, Raynham House of Pizza, Royal Pizza and Super Pizza. All offered great pizza, making a difficult decision! Thanks also go to Stoneforge who donated a gift certificate for a raffle item. We are thankful the church received over $500 from this event!
A Relief Concert for Haiti at Baptist Church of All Nations in Taunton
Our choir was one of several musical groups participating in a benefit concert for Haiti earthquake relief on April 17, 2010 at the Baptist Church of All Nations in Taunton.
More than $2,000 was raised to help those affected by the devastating January earthquake in Haiti.
You can view a story about the concert here:
Concert for Haiti
Jimmy Fortune Concert May 15
Country music legend and former Statler Brother Jimmy Fortune performed at the Stone Church on Saturday, May 15. This was the first Massachusetts appearance by Jimmy Fortune since he went out on his own seven years ago. Our own Senior Choir opened for Jimmy Fortune for the sold out concert. All of the proceeds benefit the church.
You can learn more about Jimmy Fortune and listen to samples of his music at his website: Jimmy Fortune
High Tea Honors Mothers May 2
Tea was served on Sunday, May 2nd at 2:00 PM in honor of Mothers near and far. Along with the tea, sandwiches by Wanda Hanson and sweet delicacies by Mary Boyd and Jan Overton were served. Musical selections were provided by Michael Conrad and several readings and poems were read.
Quilt Display Sunday May 2
While tea was enjoyed in the Fellowship Hall, a display of quilts was available for viewing which included children’s, historical, retirement, family, baby and out of state quilts of many times. This included quilts by Lynn Ingram and Bonnie Lester.
Strawberry Festival
One hundred and forty people enjoyed our third annual Strawberry Festival on Saturday, June 12. Despite rainy weather, homemade strawberry shortcakes were enjoyed by all from 1:00 to 4:00. Homemade strawberry jam, crafts and candles were sold along with a Chinese auction. Special thanks go to Judy Sylvia, her family Dave and Lori and everyone else who helped pick berries, prepare, serve and clean up!
Stone Church Summer Concerts
Our summer concert series concluded on July 28 with a rousing concert by the Dixie Diehards. Our thanks go to each of the performers and those who attended our concerts during July. We are already planning next year's concerts!
We are thankful to the Raynham Cultural Concert and the Massachusetts Cultural Council for a grant that covers part of the costs of the concert series.
Here's an article from the Taunton Gazette about the July 14 concert with Rob LePage:
Trumpet
A feww pictures of recent concerts:
Guitar, Harp and Recorder
Mike Conrad on organ and Rob LePage on Trumpet
SOS Big Band
The Dixie Diehards
LOBSTER BOIL!
First Congregational Church held a delicious Lobster Boil on Sunday, August 22.
The menu included: boiled lobster, boiled potato, ear of corn, salad, roll and watermelon. It was a great time!
Harvest Supper
The October 30th Harvest Supper was a great success. Tickets sold out early this year, leaving many disappointed. The turkey dinner lived up to the New England tradition and a good time was had by all! Our thanks go to everyone who helped, from planning through clean up. Special thanks to Barbara Reece for coordinating the event!
The Raynham Historical Society and the "Stone Church" Present:
Bridal Couture
Vintage to Present Gowns and Vignettes
The First Congregational Church and The Raynham Historical Society co-sponsored a vintage bridal show on two afternoons, October 23 and 24. The show featured dozens of wedding gowns through the years, followed by a reception in the Fellowship Hall.
Read a news story about the show, with photos here:
Bridal Couture
From the Brockton Enterprise:
Enterprise Newsclipping
In the Taunton Gazette
Ecumenical Thanksgiving Service
Wednesday, November 24 7:00 PM
At First Congregational Church
We join with our friends from St. Ann's Roman Catholic Church to give thanks to God in Christian unity.
Homespun Holidays Craft Fair
Sue Burns and Janet Making Apple Pies
Jim Silva Turning Out Another Treasure
The Twentieth Homespun Holidays Craft Fair was a great success at the Stone Church on November 12 and 13. An assortment of holiday crafts from many of our area's best crafters was available for sale. Crafters included Bonnie Lester, Janet Conrad, Becky Webster, Maggie Silva, Heather Pelland, Diane Berube, Judy Sylvia, Jim Silva, Patty Leite, Lori Sylvia, Sherry Tibbetts and Gina Roberts. Jim Silva offered wood turning demonstrations throughout the day both Friday and Saturday.
There were also baked goods, soup and sandwiches. And, of course, the church featured its famous apple pies!
2013
Holy Week and Easter
At the Stone Church in Raynham
At the Stone Church in Raynham
Cantata for Holy Week
Palm Sunday – March 24
9:30 AM and 7:00 PM
The Jubilation Choir will present a Cantata for Holy Week by Joseph Martin entitled “Canticle of the Cross.” The cantata will be performed during our 9:30 AM worship on Palm Sunday. It will be repeated at 7:00 PM that same evening, so invite your friends and neighbors!
Holy Week Schedule
9:30 Holy Week Cantata
7:00 Holy Week Cantata
Maundy Thursday – March 28
7:00 Service with Communion
Good Friday – March 29
Noon service at St. Thomas Episcopal Church , Taunton
Easter – March 31
6:30 AM Sunrise
9:00 and 10:30 AM Worship Services
2012
A Wonderful Advent and Christmas Season!
December was filled with fun, music and joy at the Stone Church!
The Live Nativity returned for 2012! We owe a debt of thanks to everyone who made this event possible. There were literally dozens and dozens of volunteers. Special thanks go to Grant and Shari Waterman who coordinated our buildings even during the illness and subsequent death of Grant’s father. At least 700 people visited our depiction of Bethlehem
Music was one of the features of our Advent and Christmas celebrations. The Bell Choir gave a wonderful concert to a packed house on December 2. The Jubilation Choir performed a cantata entitled “Winter’s Grace” during worship on December 16, again that same evening, and then once again on December 17 at LaSalette Shrine in Attleboro
The warm glow of candlelight filled the sanctuary for Christmas Eve services.
Special music for early Christmas Eve was provided by John Gimler and Amanda Crandall singing a duet and the “Tilbe Trio”. Judy Niles took over the Organist duties. The Jubilation Choir provided special music for the late service, with Carolyn Conrad directing and Michael Conrad at the organ.
Taunton Daily Gazette Story on the Live Nativity:
http://www.tauntongazette.com/news/x719503786/Living-Nativity-in-Raynham-offers-perspective-on-Christmas-holiday
Taunton Daily Gazette Photos from the Live Nativity:
http://www.tauntongazette.com/photos/x719503784/Raynhams-Stone-Church-holds-Living-Nativity
Church Annual Meeting January 27
The Annual Meeting of the First Congregational Church of Raynham, UCC, will be held after worship on Sunday, January 27. At that time a budget for the year 2013 will be adopted and officers and committees for the coming year will be elected. All members of the church are urged to attend!
CORVETTE RAFFLE!
1987 Red Corvette Convertible
And the winner is.....
Cara Sypher of Raynham!
Congratualtions Cara for winning the Corvette in our raffle drawing on July 25!
And thanks to each and every one of you who purchased raffle tickets!
Special thanks go to everyone who sold tickets for this drawing.
And extra special thanks go to Steve and Allyson Johnson, with the help of many, including Dave and Judy Sylvia, who made this raffle possible.
The church benefits from this raffle with about $8,000 toward our general fund.
Cara Sypher of Raynham!
Congratualtions Cara for winning the Corvette in our raffle drawing on July 25!
And thanks to each and every one of you who purchased raffle tickets!
Special thanks go to everyone who sold tickets for this drawing.
And extra special thanks go to Steve and Allyson Johnson, with the help of many, including Dave and Judy Sylvia, who made this raffle possible.
The church benefits from this raffle with about $8,000 toward our general fund.
Summer Concert Series
We had a great Summer Concert Series in 2012 and plans for 2013 are already taking shape! Concerts are held on Wednesday evenings in July at 7:00 PM.
2011
Brunch With Charles Dickens
Our third Charles Dickens gathering was held on Sunday, November 27 at 11 AM. The church choir sang "Twas the Night Before Christmas", a song that certainly pleased the capacity crowd. A delicious buffet brunch was served under the direction of Chef Wanda Hanson. After the meal was served Charles Dickens arrived to read excerpts from his classic "A Christmas Carol". The crowd then enjoyed singing a selection of Christmas carols under the direction of Lori Sylvia.
Taunton Daily Gazette Story on the Brunch
Taunton Daily Gazette Photos of Dickens Brunch
Raynham Call Photos of Dickens Brunch
The Inspiring Story of Our Friend Kim in the Raynham Call
SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
Our Summer Concert Series will run on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 PM on July 20, 27, August 3 and 10. Programs will include returning favorites and some new musical treats for you! We plan to have the August 3 concert on the front lawn of the church, weather permitting, so be sure to bring your chairs. Hot dogs and soda will be available for sale that evening. Click on the image above for the full schedule.
Check out these Taunton Daily Gazette pictures from our Summer Concerts: Taunton City Band:
Taunton City Band
Tornadoes
Rev. Tilbe returned from a two week deployment to Joplin, Missouri with the American Red Cross. He was involved in providing spiritual care to those affected by the terrible tornado that struck that city, killing 158 people. How ironic that while he traveled to Joplin there was tornado damage in western and central Massachusetts!
Our prayers go out for all who suffered from the terrible storms that have created such havoc and destruction.
Massachusetts Conference UCC has created a fund to aid people and churches affected by the June 1 tornado in Massachusetts. Donations may be made through the following link:
Tornado Help
4th Annual Strawberry Festival
The church held a Strawberry Festival on Saturday June 11. Our thanks go out to everyone who made it possible!
2010
The snow makes a beautiful scene with our huge Christmas TreeDecember Snow
Thankfully the snow waited until after Christmas Eve! This storm left quite a pile of snow behind, and draped the church in beauty.
Our regular Sunday Worship Service will be held on January 2 at 9:30 AM.
The Sunday School will be stretching the season out a bit further, holding their Epiphany Celebration on January 9.
The Junior Choir Singing Christmas Eve
"Winter's Grace" A Cantata for Christmas December 19
The Senior Choir performed Joseph Martin's cantata "Winter's Grace" on Sunday, December 19 during the 9:30 AM worship service. The Cantata was repeated at 7:00 PM that evening for our friends and neighbors. This cantata is filled with wonderful music for the Advent and Christmas seasons, with a message of hope and peace in Jesus. You can listen to a sample, a quiet version of Silent Night, by clicking the link:
Silent Night
Wildwood Strings Perform Sunday, December 12 at 7:00 PM
The Wildwood String Quartet, which includes four local women (Paula Boyle, Louise Brady, Carolyn Conrad and Mary Ann Nichols Hubbard) performed at the Stone Church on Sunday, December 12 at 7:00 PM. An appreciative crowd enjoyed some wonderful seasonal music!
Click here for Taunton Daily Gazette photos
The Magi Offer Their Gifts as the Shepherds Look On
The Manger Scene with Paul Peterson Serenading
The Census Taker's Long ListLIVE NATIVITY Sunday December 5
On a beautiful December evening the Stone Church depiction of Bethlehem at the time Jesus was born was viewed by hundreds of people. We are thankful for all church people who helped build and occupy our Bethlehem village!
The Raynham Call's photo gallery can be found here:
Live Nativity
Mr. Dickens Checks the Time before His ReadingAn Afternoon Tea with Charles Dickens
A Reading from
“A Christmas Carol”
Charles Dickens returned to the Stone Church for another reading of his "Christmas Carol" on Sunday, November 28. A festive crowd greeted Mr. Dickens, played by Rev. Tilbe, as they kicked off the holiday season with the ghostly tale of redemption.
Raynham Call Photos of Mr. Dickens' Reading
Christmas Tree LightingTree Lighting November 28
The 18 foot Christmas Tree in front of the church was officially lit with song, cocoa and a joyful crowd on November 28. Our thanks go to everyone who made this possible!
2009
An Afternoon Tea With Charles Dickens
Tea, goodies, a reading from Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" plus some Christmas music made for an enjoyable afternoon on November 29.
The Taunton Gazette has photos from the afternoon:
Delving Into Dickens
2010
Best Pizza in Raynham
The results are in from the "Raynham’s Best Pizza Contest." Cape Cod Cafe on Broadway won the March 14, 2010 contest, receiving the most votes from our tasters. We want to thank each of the pizza makers who participated: Cape Cod Pizza, Great American Pub, Piezonis, Raynham House of Pizza, Royal Pizza and Super Pizza. All offered great pizza, making a difficult decision! Thanks also go to Stoneforge who donated a gift certificate for a raffle item. We are thankful the church received over $500 from this event!
A Relief Concert for Haiti at Baptist Church of All Nations in Taunton
Our choir was one of several musical groups participating in a benefit concert for Haiti earthquake relief on April 17, 2010 at the Baptist Church of All Nations in Taunton.
More than $2,000 was raised to help those affected by the devastating January earthquake in Haiti.
You can view a story about the concert here:
Concert for Haiti
Jimmy Fortune Concert May 15
Country music legend and former Statler Brother Jimmy Fortune performed at the Stone Church on Saturday, May 15. This was the first Massachusetts appearance by Jimmy Fortune since he went out on his own seven years ago. Our own Senior Choir opened for Jimmy Fortune for the sold out concert. All of the proceeds benefit the church.
You can learn more about Jimmy Fortune and listen to samples of his music at his website: Jimmy Fortune
High Tea Honors Mothers May 2
Tea was served on Sunday, May 2nd at 2:00 PM in honor of Mothers near and far. Along with the tea, sandwiches by Wanda Hanson and sweet delicacies by Mary Boyd and Jan Overton were served. Musical selections were provided by Michael Conrad and several readings and poems were read.
Quilt Display Sunday May 2
While tea was enjoyed in the Fellowship Hall, a display of quilts was available for viewing which included children’s, historical, retirement, family, baby and out of state quilts of many times. This included quilts by Lynn Ingram and Bonnie Lester.
Strawberry Festival
One hundred and forty people enjoyed our third annual Strawberry Festival on Saturday, June 12. Despite rainy weather, homemade strawberry shortcakes were enjoyed by all from 1:00 to 4:00. Homemade strawberry jam, crafts and candles were sold along with a Chinese auction. Special thanks go to Judy Sylvia, her family Dave and Lori and everyone else who helped pick berries, prepare, serve and clean up!
Stone Church Summer Concerts
Our summer concert series concluded on July 28 with a rousing concert by the Dixie Diehards. Our thanks go to each of the performers and those who attended our concerts during July. We are already planning next year's concerts!
We are thankful to the Raynham Cultural Concert and the Massachusetts Cultural Council for a grant that covers part of the costs of the concert series.
Here's an article from the Taunton Gazette about the July 14 concert with Rob LePage:
Trumpet
A feww pictures of recent concerts:
Mike Conrad on organ and Rob LePage on Trumpet
SOS Big Band
The Dixie Diehards
LOBSTER BOIL!
First Congregational Church held a delicious Lobster Boil on Sunday, August 22.
The menu included: boiled lobster, boiled potato, ear of corn, salad, roll and watermelon. It was a great time!
Harvest Supper
The October 30th Harvest Supper was a great success. Tickets sold out early this year, leaving many disappointed. The turkey dinner lived up to the New England tradition and a good time was had by all! Our thanks go to everyone who helped, from planning through clean up. Special thanks to Barbara Reece for coordinating the event!
The Raynham Historical Society and the "Stone Church" Present:
Bridal Couture
Vintage to Present Gowns and Vignettes
The First Congregational Church and The Raynham Historical Society co-sponsored a vintage bridal show on two afternoons, October 23 and 24. The show featured dozens of wedding gowns through the years, followed by a reception in the Fellowship Hall.
Read a news story about the show, with photos here:
Bridal Couture
From the Brockton Enterprise:
In the Taunton Gazette
Ecumenical Thanksgiving Service
Wednesday, November 24 7:00 PM
At First Congregational Church
We join with our friends from St. Ann's Roman Catholic Church to give thanks to God in Christian unity.
Homespun Holidays Craft Fair
Sue Burns and Janet Making Apple Pies
Jim Silva Turning Out Another TreasureThe Twentieth Homespun Holidays Craft Fair was a great success at the Stone Church on November 12 and 13. An assortment of holiday crafts from many of our area's best crafters was available for sale. Crafters included Bonnie Lester, Janet Conrad, Becky Webster, Maggie Silva, Heather Pelland, Diane Berube, Judy Sylvia, Jim Silva, Patty Leite, Lori Sylvia, Sherry Tibbetts and Gina Roberts. Jim Silva offered wood turning demonstrations throughout the day both Friday and Saturday.
There were also baked goods, soup and sandwiches. And, of course, the church featured its famous apple pies!
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Contact Information and Directions
Directions to First Congregational Church of Raynham UCC
From the North:
Take Route 24 South to the Route 104, Exit 15 for Bridgewater and Raynham.
Bear right on the exit ramp, taking Route 104 toward Raynham.
Follow Route 104, turning left at a traffic light, continuing until you get to a red flashing light. The church is at this intersection.
From the South:
Take Route 24 North to Exit 13A, the Route 44 East exit.
At the end of the exit ramp you will have to cross over the lanes of traffic to make a left turn at the traffic light.
This is Orchard Street. The church is just after the Fire Station, before the flashing red light.
From the Taunton Area:
Take Route 44 East. Turn left onto route 104 and follow this route to the church which is just before the red flashing light.
From the East:
Take Route 44 West. Watch for Walmart on the left hand side.
At the next traffic light after Walmart, take a right onto Orchard Street. The church is just after the Fire Station, before the flashing light.
From the Northwest on 495:
Take Exit 8 off Route 495. Signs read Taunton and Stoughton, Route 138.
Bear right at the end of the ramp traveling south on Rt. 138. Go through one traffic light then look for the giant milk bottle on the left.
Take the first street on the left after the milk bottle, Center Street.
This street will merge with Route 104 at the traffic light. Go straight toward the church at the flashing red light.
From the Southeast on 495:
Take Exit 6 off Route 495, this is the exit for Route 44.
Bear right at the exit ramp onto Rout 44 heading west toward Taunton.
(Don't be alarmed if you see a sign that says you have entered Taunton... You'll be in Raynham in a moment.)
Watch for Walmart on the left hand side and Lowes on your right.
At the next traffic light after Walmart, take a right onto Orchard Street. The church is just after the Fire Station, before the flashing light.
Contact Information
Mailing Address:
First Congregational Church of Raynham UCC
785 South Main Street
Raynham, MA 02767
Phone: 508-822-6177
Email: stonechurchraynham@gmail.com
From the North:
Take Route 24 South to the Route 104, Exit 15 for Bridgewater and Raynham.
Bear right on the exit ramp, taking Route 104 toward Raynham.
Follow Route 104, turning left at a traffic light, continuing until you get to a red flashing light. The church is at this intersection.
From the South:
Take Route 24 North to Exit 13A, the Route 44 East exit.
At the end of the exit ramp you will have to cross over the lanes of traffic to make a left turn at the traffic light.
This is Orchard Street. The church is just after the Fire Station, before the flashing red light.
From the Taunton Area:
Take Route 44 East. Turn left onto route 104 and follow this route to the church which is just before the red flashing light.
From the East:
Take Route 44 West. Watch for Walmart on the left hand side.
At the next traffic light after Walmart, take a right onto Orchard Street. The church is just after the Fire Station, before the flashing light.
From the Northwest on 495:
Take Exit 8 off Route 495. Signs read Taunton and Stoughton, Route 138.
Bear right at the end of the ramp traveling south on Rt. 138. Go through one traffic light then look for the giant milk bottle on the left.
Take the first street on the left after the milk bottle, Center Street.
This street will merge with Route 104 at the traffic light. Go straight toward the church at the flashing red light.
From the Southeast on 495:
Take Exit 6 off Route 495, this is the exit for Route 44.
Bear right at the exit ramp onto Rout 44 heading west toward Taunton.
(Don't be alarmed if you see a sign that says you have entered Taunton... You'll be in Raynham in a moment.)
Watch for Walmart on the left hand side and Lowes on your right.
At the next traffic light after Walmart, take a right onto Orchard Street. The church is just after the Fire Station, before the flashing light.
Contact Information
Mailing Address:
First Congregational Church of Raynham UCC
785 South Main Street
Raynham, MA 02767
Phone: 508-822-6177
Email: stonechurchraynham@gmail.com
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