Above all else, we believe in the credo, "No matter who you are or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here."
As a congregational church, decisions within the church are made by the church members, either in small groups or at meetings of the entire membership. Ministers are chosen by our church members and we are proud to say that the last two ministers were with us for an average of more than 20 years. Our current minister was selected in 2021.
The First Congregational Church of Hanover, Massachusetts began in 1728, less than a year after Hanover itself was founded. Since then, we have been located in the heart of Hanover in town center. Our church has been pivotal in many of the activities within the community, and our members come from many of the surrounding towns. At Riley Hall, our parish center, we have long provided space for organizations of all types, including child care groups, as well as for our own activities. A full, professional kitchen, large open spaces, and smaller meeting rooms make the hall ideal for groups of all sizes.
We interact regularly with the other churches in town, the minister in the Clergy Association and many church members in an interdenominational service.
We have a wonderful choir that leads us in hymns each Sunday, and who presents special music on special occasions. Guest professional and student musicians often join us.
Our congregational is very active with numerous groups providing services, friendship, and religious education. Our church school program usually follows the service program and sermons delivered in church to re-emphasize to the children the lessons we all learn. There are also groups specifically for middle-school and high-school students, as well confirmation class to prepare older children for confirmation into the church.
We take our mission of outreach and service very seriously, sending groups to needy areas of the country, as well as serving in our local areas.