
The First Congregational Church of Westbrook, Connecticut Loving God, Serving Our Neighbor, Transforming Our Community
Westbrook Congregational Church is an inclusive community that embraces and celebrates all who seek to love and serve God. As followers of Christ, we believe in giving love and support to all people and affirming their sacred worth. Our church is dedicated to sharing the love of Christ through service, fellowship, and worship. Our community puts faith into practice by sharing our gifts and spreading God's love. WCC is a hub of activity, functioning in many ways as a community center, housing worship, yoga, music classes, faith formation classes, and a Spanish-speaking congregation. We are also a partner with recovery support group programs and Shoreline Soup Kitchen and Pantries as a weekly active hot meal site.
WCC is an Open and Affirming Church in the Southern New England Conference of the United Church of Christ. This means we proclaim at every worship service, "No matter who you are or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here!" We, embrace, affirm, and celebrate all who seek to love and serve God. As followers of Jesus, we promise our love and support to all persons, embracing differences of age, race, culture, ethnicity, mental and physical capability, marital choice, sexual orientation, gender identity, faith background and socioeconomic status. We offer all sacraments and rites to those who join our circle of faith and extend all responsibilities and privileges to those who choose covenant membership.
Locally, we collaborate with Essex and Old Saybrook Congregational Churches through our Youth Group, joint worship services, and events throughout the year. We are proud members of the Middlesex Association of UCC Churches and the Valley Shore Ecumenical Congregations.
The United Church of Christ (UCC) was founded in 1957 by Protestant Reformers. We believe in the authority of one God and that Scripture remains relevant to us today. Our study of the Scriptures is not limited to past interpretations; it also incorporates new insights and guidance from God for living in the present. We strive to be relevant in a changing world while acknowledging the importance of traditions. Our ordained ministers are highly educated and strive to empower the ministry of all Christians. We celebrate two sacraments: baptism and Holy Communion.
As a United Church of Christ congregation, we hold four distinct characteristics.
Christian: We declare ourselves part of the Body of Christ, which is the Christian church. Like the early disciples, we continue their work, exemplifying Christ's reality and power.
Congregational: In the United Church of Christ, each local congregation has its own unique worship style, leadership, and governance. Members make covenants with each other and with God. Congregations establish trusting covenantal relationships to create larger structures for more effective service. We are affiliated with the Middlesex Association and the Southern New England Annual Conference.
Evangelical: Sharing the Gospel's good news embodies evangelism. God’s love, as revealed through Jesus Christ, is available to everyone, regardless of where they are on their life's journey. This message is central to our worship and community activities. We come together to honor God, participate in service, and proclaim hope through our words and actions.