We look forward to seeing you!
No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome at Center Church!
Whether you are looking for a home church or are just visiting South Hadley, we’ll be glad to see you in the pews at our 10AM Sunday service.
What Is Center Church?
We at Center Church, also known as First Congregational Church, U.C.C., are a vibrant Christian community that listens for God’s voice today while honoring our deep roots in the Pioneer Valley.
At Center Church we roll up our sleeves to deepen our faith, we extend God’s abundant love and justice, and we hold laughter and tears as sacred.
Where Are You Located? Where Can I Park?
Center Church is located at One Church Street in South Hadley, on Route 116, across from South Hadley’s Town Common. Parking is available around the church (including the spots marked “Faculty and Staff” for Mt. Holyoke College, just on Sundays) and at the Common. Handicapped spots are located on Church and Park Streets.
Is the Church Handicap Accessible?
Yes! Our elevator is accessible from both the Church Street and Lower Park Street entrances.
What Can I Expect at a Worship Service?
When you enter, an usher will welcome you and hand you a bulletin, which will guide you through the worship service. We generally begin by greeting one another, followed by communal prayer, song led by our vibrant choir, scripture, a lively homily by our Pastor, Rev. Lori Souder, more prayer and song, and sometimes special guest speakers or performances. Service lasts approximately an hour.
We share in Communion on the first Sunday of each month.
Rice cakes are provided for those who do not eat gluten.
Are There Special Accommodations for Families with Children?
Yes, indeed! We love children at Center Church and are delighted to accompany them on their walk with God. During the school year, most services include a Children’s Conversation, after which children are brought to our Promised Land school for games, crafts, scripture readings, and special outreach projects, guided by the gentle care of our loving Christian education staff. On Communion Sundays, the children are invited to go to the Promised Land directly, for the entire service. Parents or guardians are welcome to accompany their children to Promised Land. Classes range from preschool through 8th grade.
Nursery care is available during worship; please check with an usher for the location of the nursery. Our experienced, loving care giver Deb, will welcome your infant through 3 year old with a smile.
We also have an active Youth Group (6th – 12th grade) that meets during Sunday worship and is led by an amazing young woman who is a second year student at Mount Holyoke..
Are You an Open and Affirming Church?
Yes. At Center Church, gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning people are fully included in the life and ministry of the church, as are all seekers.
Is the Summer Schedule Different?
Yes. In summer it is our privilege to gather with other area UCC communities, on rotation. This provides an opportunity to make new friends and new discoveries about God in less familiar, and quite lovely, places of worship. Our summer schedule will be posted on our home page by late spring.
Promised Land does not meet in the summer.
Do You Socialize After Sunday Service?
Yes! Most Sundays we enjoy coffee and refreshments in our multi-purpose room, directly after service. We would be delighted to have you join us.
Can I Get Involved in the Church Beyond Sunday Worship?
Can you ever! There are many opportunities to become more deeply involved in the life of the church. We gather for community outreach, Bible study, youth group, meditation, exercise, special events planning, and so much more.
How Can I Get More Information?
Feel free to contact our church office (433-532-2262 or [email protected]) with any questions or concerns.