Upcoming Events at NRUCC
Prefer to see our events in a calendar format? View the events calendar.
Sunday Worship
If you need a little more peace and joy in your life you'll find all of that and a warm welcome waiting for you when we gather in God's sanctuary every Sunday morning for our 10 a.m. worship service. If you can't join us in person we invite you to worship with us online.
Sunday School and our Middle School Holy Hangout are offered each Sunday during the service.
Care Ministry Meeting
The Care Ministry is responsible for providing support to congregation members in need of compassionate assistance. This support may involve delivering meals to individuals who have recently been discharged from the hospital or paying visits to those who are confined to their homes.
Office Closed in Observance of Presidents' Day
The church office is closed today as we reflect on the leaders who shaped our nation. We give thanks for their service and pray for wisdom and guidance for all those in positions of authority.
Bible Study
Join us as we explore God's Word together! Our Bible study sessions offer a welcoming environment for people at all stages of their faith journey. Whether you're new to Scripture or a seasoned reader, you'll find opportunities to deepen your understanding, ask questions, and apply biblical teachings to your daily life.
All are welcome! Bring your Bible or use one of ours.
Chancel Choir Rehearsal
The Chancel Choir brings the gifts of song to our Sunday morning worship services. The choir does a variety of anthems from classical to contemporary to spirituals. All are welcome to join us!
Faith Circle
Join our community of women dedicated to walking through life together in Christian fellowship. Whether we are diving into Scripture, sharing our stories over a cup of coffee, or lifting one another up in prayer, our heart is to create a space where every woman feels seen, heard, and loved.
This month Pastor Gayle will be joining us to lead the activity!
North Parish Ringers Bell Choir Rehearsal
The North Parish Ringers play a vital role in our music ministry. Once a month the sound of bells can be heard offering praise to God during the service of worship.
Reading music is beneficial but not required. If you have the ability to count, you can participate in this music ministry. Rehearsals take place on Wednesday evenings from 6 – 7 p.m.
Lobster Bisque Lenten Luncheons
Take the chill off….every Friday with our Lobster Bisque Lenten Luncheons.
Join us each Friday during Lent as we gather in Fellowship Hall for some healthy servings of food and fellowship.
AA
Union Congregational Church is happy to host a weekly, Saturday morning AA meeting.
Anyone with a desire to stop drinking is welcome, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, income or profession. And it’s free.
You can just sit and listen and learn more about recovery, or you can share about your situation. It’s completely up to you.
For more support:
Recovery Coaching Services: Tracy Ascolillo Rizzo, Wakefield’s Recovery Coach, is available to aidthose in need of assistance with substance use related issues. Tracy helps individuals and their familiesnavigate the care system by building a relationship with each individual, and helping to supportbehavior changes in their journey toward recovery. Tracy can be reached at tascolillo@eliotchs.org or(781) 879-2117.
Bridge Recovery Center: 239 Commercial Street, Malden MA 02148Peer-to-peer recovery resources for adults in recovery as well as family, friends, and communitymembers with experience in recovery. Updated schedules and information are available atwww.bridgerecoverycenter.org.
Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline: This is a public resource for finding licensed and approvedsubstance use treatment and recovery services. Call 800.327.5050 to get help, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.Monday to Friday and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends.
Sunday Worship
If you need a little more peace and joy in your life you'll find all of that and a warm welcome waiting for you when we gather in God's sanctuary every Sunday morning for our 10 a.m. worship service. If you can't join us in person we invite you to worship with us online.
Sunday School and our Middle School Holy Hangout are offered each Sunday during the service.
Canva Workshop & Working Session
Join Pastor Gayle for a brief overview on how to use Canva’s best tools to create engaging designs. Then we'll jump into our Open Workspace where the heart of the session is dedicated time to work. Bring your laptop or tablet and a specific project in mind, like a flyer, a social media post, or an invitation. Pastor Gayle will be available to jump in, help you find the right template, and give feedback on your layouts.
Staff Meeting
Our leadership team meets regularly to coordinate the life of the church. This collaborative group includes our pastoral team, administrative staff, the Hilltop Nursery School Director, and a member of Christian Community Services who runs the North Reading Food Pantry. The team meets every other week and works together to ensure the church is serving God both within our church community and in the wider world.
Bible Study
Join us as we explore God's Word together! Our Bible study sessions offer a welcoming environment for people at all stages of their faith journey. Whether you're new to Scripture or a seasoned reader, you'll find opportunities to deepen your understanding, ask questions, and apply biblical teachings to your daily life.
All are welcome! Bring your Bible or use one of ours.
Chancel Choir Rehearsal
The Chancel Choir brings the gifts of song to our Sunday morning worship services. The choir does a variety of anthems from classical to contemporary to spirituals. All are welcome to join us!
North Parish Ringers Bell Choir Rehearsal
The North Parish Ringers play a vital role in our music ministry. Once a month the sound of bells can be heard offering praise to God during the service of worship.
Reading music is beneficial but not required. If you have the ability to count, you can participate in this music ministry. Rehearsals take place on Wednesday evenings from 6 – 7 p.m.
Council Meeting
In the UCC tradition, the local church is autonomous, meaning the power of the church rests in its members. The Council acts as the executive branch of that membership, serving as the primary governing body and "big picture" team of our congregation. Meeting monthly, this group of dedicated lay leaders works in covenant with our pastors to oversee the life, ministry, and strategic direction of the church.
Lobster Bisque Lenten Luncheon
Take the chill off….every Friday with our Lobster Bisque Lenten Luncheons.
Join us each Friday during Lent as we gather in Fellowship Hall for some healthy servings of food and fellowship.
Confirmation Class
As part of the confirmation program, confirmands are matched with a mentor to walk with them along this important part of the journey. Confirmands also participate in formal classes as well as service projects, worship services, bible studies, stewardship activities, field trips, and an overnight retreat, and they serve as acolytes at our worship services.
Classes meet every Friday from 6-7 in the chapel. Confirmands are invited to stay for youth group following the class.
Youth Group: Fellowship Night
Youth group is open to all youth in grade 6-12 who want to spend time together on Friday evenings. Our meetings rotate through game nights, fellowship nights, service projects, and BIG BANGS (special outings like laser tag, corn mazes, mall scavenger hunts and more)!
You do not have to be a church member to attend, and youth are welcome to bring friends! Email Pastor Gayle for more information.
AA
Union Congregational Church is happy to host a weekly, Saturday morning AA meeting.
Anyone with a desire to stop drinking is welcome, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, income or profession. And it’s free.
You can just sit and listen and learn more about recovery, or you can share about your situation. It’s completely up to you.
For more support:
Recovery Coaching Services: Tracy Ascolillo Rizzo, Wakefield’s Recovery Coach, is available to aidthose in need of assistance with substance use related issues. Tracy helps individuals and their familiesnavigate the care system by building a relationship with each individual, and helping to supportbehavior changes in their journey toward recovery. Tracy can be reached at tascolillo@eliotchs.org or(781) 879-2117.
Bridge Recovery Center: 239 Commercial Street, Malden MA 02148Peer-to-peer recovery resources for adults in recovery as well as family, friends, and communitymembers with experience in recovery. Updated schedules and information are available atwww.bridgerecoverycenter.org.
Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline: This is a public resource for finding licensed and approvedsubstance use treatment and recovery services. Call 800.327.5050 to get help, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.Monday to Friday and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends.
Bible Study
Join us as we explore God's Word together! Our Bible study sessions offer a welcoming environment for people at all stages of their faith journey. Whether you're new to Scripture or a seasoned reader, you'll find opportunities to deepen your understanding, ask questions, and apply biblical teachings to your daily life.
All are welcome! Bring your Bible or use one of ours.
Chancel Choir Rehearsal
The Chancel Choir brings the gifts of song to our Sunday morning worship services. The choir does a variety of anthems from classical to contemporary to spirituals. All are welcome to join us!
North Parish Ringers Bell Choir Rehearsal
The North Parish Ringers play a vital role in our music ministry. Once a month the sound of bells can be heard offering praise to God during the service of worship.
Reading music is beneficial but not required. If you have the ability to count, you can participate in this music ministry. Rehearsals take place on Wednesday evenings from 6 – 7 p.m.
Lobster Bisque Lenten Luncheon
Take the chill off….every Friday with our Lobster Bisque Lenten Luncheons.
Join us each Friday during Lent as we gather in Fellowship Hall for some healthy servings of food and fellowship.
Confirmation Class
As part of the confirmation program, confirmands are matched with a mentor to walk with them along this important part of the journey. Confirmands also participate in formal classes as well as service projects, worship services, bible studies, stewardship activities, field trips, and an overnight retreat, and they serve as acolytes at our worship services.
Classes meet every Friday from 6-7 in the chapel. Confirmands are invited to stay for youth group following the class.
Youth Group
Youth group is open to all youth in grade 6-12 who want to spend time together on Friday evenings. Our meetings rotate through game nights, fellowship nights, service projects, and BIG BANGS (special outings like laser tag, corn mazes, mall scavenger hunts and more)!
You do not have to be a church member to attend, and youth are welcome to bring friends! Email Pastor Gayle for more information.
Bible Quest
In preparation for Bible Sunday, our Pastors will be leading our annual Bible Quest class for third graders and any older children who have not yet received a Bible. During this class, children will learn basic skills for using their bibles. Pizza and drinks will be included. Participants will receive their Bibles on the following Sunday, during worship.
Bible Study
Join us as we explore God's Word together! Our Bible study sessions offer a welcoming environment for people at all stages of their faith journey. Whether you're new to Scripture or a seasoned reader, you'll find opportunities to deepen your understanding, ask questions, and apply biblical teachings to your daily life.
All are welcome! Bring your Bible or use one of ours.
Chancel Choir Rehearsal
The Chancel Choir brings the gifts of song to our Sunday morning worship services. The choir does a variety of anthems from classical to contemporary to spirituals. All are welcome to join us!
North Parish Ringers Bell Choir Rehearsal
The North Parish Ringers play a vital role in our music ministry. Once a month the sound of bells can be heard offering praise to God during the service of worship.
Reading music is beneficial but not required. If you have the ability to count, you can participate in this music ministry. Rehearsals take place on Wednesday evenings from 6 – 7 p.m.
Lobster Bisque Lenten Luncheon
Take the chill off….every Friday with our Lobster Bisque Lenten Luncheons.
Join us each Friday during Lent as we gather in Fellowship Hall for some healthy servings of food and fellowship.
Confirmation Class
As part of the confirmation program, confirmands are matched with a mentor to walk with them along this important part of the journey. Confirmands also participate in formal classes as well as service projects, worship services, bible studies, stewardship activities, field trips, and an overnight retreat, and they serve as acolytes at our worship services.
Classes meet every Friday from 6-7 in the chapel. Confirmands are invited to stay for youth group following the class.
Bible Sunday
Join us for the Presentation of the Bibles during worship, as our third graders receive their own Bibles!
Bible Study
Join us as we explore God's Word together! Our Bible study sessions offer a welcoming environment for people at all stages of their faith journey. Whether you're new to Scripture or a seasoned reader, you'll find opportunities to deepen your understanding, ask questions, and apply biblical teachings to your daily life.
All are welcome! Bring your Bible or use one of ours.
Chancel Choir Rehearsal
The Chancel Choir brings the gifts of song to our Sunday morning worship services. The choir does a variety of anthems from classical to contemporary to spirituals. All are welcome to join us!
North Parish Ringers Bell Choir Rehearsal
The North Parish Ringers play a vital role in our music ministry. Once a month the sound of bells can be heard offering praise to God during the service of worship.
Reading music is beneficial but not required. If you have the ability to count, you can participate in this music ministry. Rehearsals take place on Wednesday evenings from 6 – 7 p.m.
Lobster Bisque Lenten Luncheon
Take the chill off….every Friday with our Lobster Bisque Lenten Luncheons.
Join us each Friday during Lent as we gather in Fellowship Hall for some healthy servings of food and fellowship.
Confirmation Class
As part of the confirmation program, confirmands are matched with a mentor to walk with them along this important part of the journey. Confirmands also participate in formal classes as well as service projects, worship services, bible studies, stewardship activities, field trips, and an overnight retreat, and they serve as acolytes at our worship services.
Classes meet every Friday from 6-7 in the chapel. Confirmands are invited to stay for youth group following the class.
Youth Group
Youth group is open to all youth in grade 6-12 who want to spend time together on Friday evenings. Our meetings rotate through game nights, fellowship nights, service projects, and BIG BANGS (special outings like laser tag, corn mazes, mall scavenger hunts and more)!
You do not have to be a church member to attend, and youth are welcome to bring friends! Email Pastor Gayle for more information.
Children's Sunday
Join us as the children and youth lead worship in a Vacation Bible School way to take us on a deep dive into our friendship with God! This is an annual tradition you don't want to miss!
Bible Study
Join us as we explore God's Word together! Our Bible study sessions offer a welcoming environment for people at all stages of their faith journey. Whether you're new to Scripture or a seasoned reader, you'll find opportunities to deepen your understanding, ask questions, and apply biblical teachings to your daily life.
All are welcome! Bring your Bible or use one of ours.
Chancel Choir Rehearsal
The Chancel Choir brings the gifts of song to our Sunday morning worship services. The choir does a variety of anthems from classical to contemporary to spirituals. All are welcome to join us!
North Parish Ringers Bell Choir Rehearsal
The North Parish Ringers play a vital role in our music ministry. Once a month the sound of bells can be heard offering praise to God during the service of worship.
Reading music is beneficial but not required. If you have the ability to count, you can participate in this music ministry. Rehearsals take place on Wednesday evenings from 6 – 7 p.m.
Council Meeting
In the UCC tradition, the local church is autonomous, meaning the power of the church rests in its members. The Council acts as the executive branch of that membership, serving as the primary governing body and "big picture" team of our congregation. Meeting monthly, this group of dedicated lay leaders works in covenant with our pastors to oversee the life, ministry, and strategic direction of the church.
Lobster Bisque Lenten Luncheon
Take the chill off….every Friday with our Lobster Bisque Lenten Luncheons.
Join us each Friday during Lent as we gather in Fellowship Hall for some healthy servings of food and fellowship.
Confirmation Class
As part of the confirmation program, confirmands are matched with a mentor to walk with them along this important part of the journey. Confirmands also participate in formal classes as well as service projects, worship services, bible studies, stewardship activities, field trips, and an overnight retreat, and they serve as acolytes at our worship services.
Classes meet every Friday from 6-7 in the chapel. Confirmands are invited to stay for youth group following the class.
Youth Group
Youth group is open to all youth in grade 6-12 who want to spend time together on Friday evenings. Our meetings rotate through game nights, fellowship nights, service projects, and BIG BANGS (special outings like laser tag, corn mazes, mall scavenger hunts and more)!
You do not have to be a church member to attend, and youth are welcome to bring friends! Email Pastor Gayle for more information.
Chancel Choir Rehearsal
The Chancel Choir brings the gifts of song to our Sunday morning worship services. The choir does a variety of anthems from classical to contemporary to spirituals. All are welcome to join us!
North Parish Ringers Bell Choir Rehearsal
The North Parish Ringers play a vital role in our music ministry. Once a month the sound of bells can be heard offering praise to God during the service of worship.
Reading music is beneficial but not required. If you have the ability to count, you can participate in this music ministry. Rehearsals take place on Wednesday evenings from 6 – 7 p.m.
Lobster Bisque Lenten Luncheon
Take the chill off….every Friday with our Lobster Bisque Lenten Luncheons.
Join us each Friday during Lent as we gather in Fellowship Hall for some healthy servings of food and fellowship.
Chancel Choir Rehearsal
The Chancel Choir brings the gifts of song to our Sunday morning worship services. The choir does a variety of anthems from classical to contemporary to spirituals. All are welcome to join us!
North Parish Ringers Bell Choir Rehearsal
The North Parish Ringers play a vital role in our music ministry. Once a month the sound of bells can be heard offering praise to God during the service of worship.
Reading music is beneficial but not required. If you have the ability to count, you can participate in this music ministry. Rehearsals take place on Wednesday evenings from 6 – 7 p.m.
Youth Group: Service Project
Youth group is open to all youth in grade 6-12 who want to spend time together on Friday evenings. Our meetings rotate through game nights, fellowship nights, service projects, and BIG BANGS (special outings like laser tag, corn mazes, mall scavenger hunts and more)!
You do not have to be a church member to attend, and youth are welcome to bring friends! Email Pastor Gayle for more information.
AA
Union Congregational Church is happy to host a weekly, Saturday morning AA meeting.
Anyone with a desire to stop drinking is welcome, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, income or profession. And it’s free.
You can just sit and listen and learn more about recovery, or you can share about your situation. It’s completely up to you.
For more support:
Recovery Coaching Services: Tracy Ascolillo Rizzo, Wakefield’s Recovery Coach, is available to aidthose in need of assistance with substance use related issues. Tracy helps individuals and their familiesnavigate the care system by building a relationship with each individual, and helping to supportbehavior changes in their journey toward recovery. Tracy can be reached at tascolillo@eliotchs.org or(781) 879-2117.
Bridge Recovery Center: 239 Commercial Street, Malden MA 02148Peer-to-peer recovery resources for adults in recovery as well as family, friends, and communitymembers with experience in recovery. Updated schedules and information are available atwww.bridgerecoverycenter.org.
Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline: This is a public resource for finding licensed and approvedsubstance use treatment and recovery services. Call 800.327.5050 to get help, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.Monday to Friday and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends.
Youth Group: Game Night
Youth group is open to all youth in grade 6-12 who want to spend time together on Friday evenings. Our meetings rotate through game nights, fellowship nights, service projects, and BIG BANGS (special outings like laser tag, corn mazes, mall scavenger hunts and more)!
You do not have to be a church member to attend, and youth are welcome to bring friends! Email Pastor Gayle for more information.
Hilltop Enrichment
As part of our partnership with Hilltop Nursery School, their students use our Fellowship Hall from time to time for enrichment activities, including music, movement, and indoor play.
This collaboration allows the children a safe, spacious environment to grow and learn. We love hearing the joyful sounds of learning filling our halls during the week!
Please Note: To ensure the safety and focus of the students, we ask that church members kindly check the calendar or coordinate with the office before entering the Fellowship Hall during school hours.
Bible Study
Join us as we explore God's Word together! Our Bible study sessions offer a welcoming environment for people at all stages of their faith journey. Whether you're new to Scripture or a seasoned reader, you'll find opportunities to deepen your understanding, ask questions, and apply biblical teachings to your daily life.
All are welcome! Bring your Bible or use one of ours.
Chocolate Affair Potluck
Faith & Fellowship invites you to join us for a "Chocolate Affair", a chocolate-themed potluck on February 8 during coffee hour. We definitely need your help making this event a delicious success! Use this link to sign up for a chocolate item to make or donate! Take out boxes will be available to purchase to bring your sweet treats home if you can't stay or if you can't get enough!
Sunday Worship
If you need a little more peace and joy in your life you'll find all of that and a warm welcome waiting for you when we gather in God's sanctuary every Sunday morning for our 10 a.m. worship service. If you can't join us in person we invite you to worship with us online.
Sunday School and our Middle School Holy Hangout are offered each Sunday during the service.
Christian Education Meeting
The Christian Education Ministry works together to listen to the needs of the congregation and the guidance of God to provide high-quality and diverse Christian education opportunities to the entire congregation. They work closely with the Minister of Discipleship and they oversee the Sunday School program, the nursery, confirmation, Middle School and High School youth groups, and adult education opportunities.
Our CE Ministry meets on the first Sunday of the month to plan upcoming activities.
Have an idea you’d like to share? Stop by our meeting and let us know!
Boy Scouts Pinewood Derby
We are proud to partner with out local boy scout troops and host their meetings in our Fellowship Hall. On select Sunday evenings, our halls are filled with the energy of young explorers learning life skills, serving our community, and having fun. We love hosting these future leaders and their families as they grow in character and citizenship.
AA
Union Congregational Church is happy to host a weekly, Saturday morning AA meeting.
Anyone with a desire to stop drinking is welcome, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, income or profession. And it’s free.
You can just sit and listen and learn more about recovery, or you can share about your situation. It’s completely up to you.
For more support:
Recovery Coaching Services: Tracy Ascolillo Rizzo, Wakefield’s Recovery Coach, is available to aidthose in need of assistance with substance use related issues. Tracy helps individuals and their familiesnavigate the care system by building a relationship with each individual, and helping to supportbehavior changes in their journey toward recovery. Tracy can be reached at tascolillo@eliotchs.org or(781) 879-2117.
Bridge Recovery Center: 239 Commercial Street, Malden MA 02148Peer-to-peer recovery resources for adults in recovery as well as family, friends, and communitymembers with experience in recovery. Updated schedules and information are available atwww.bridgerecoverycenter.org.
Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline: This is a public resource for finding licensed and approvedsubstance use treatment and recovery services. Call 800.327.5050 to get help, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.Monday to Friday and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends.
Youth Group: Service Project
Youth group is open to all youth in grade 6-12 who want to spend time together on Friday evenings. Our meetings rotate through game nights, fellowship nights, service projects, and BIG BANGS (special outings like laser tag, corn mazes, mall scavenger hunts and more)!
You do not have to be a church member to attend, and youth are welcome to bring friends! Email Pastor Gayle for more information.
Confirmation Class
As part of the confirmation program, confirmands are matched with a mentor to walk with them along this important part of the journey. Confirmands also participate in formal classes as well as service projects, worship services, bible studies, stewardship activities, field trips, and an overnight retreat, and they serve as acolytes at our worship services.
Classes meet every Friday from 6-7 in the chapel. Confirmands are invited to stay for youth group following the class.
HAP Coffee Hour
As part of our partnership with Hilltop Nursery School, their students use our Fellowship Hall from time to time for enrichment activities, including music, movement, and indoor play.
This collaboration allows the children a safe, spacious environment to grow and learn. We love hearing the joyful sounds of learning filling our halls during the week!
Please Note: To ensure the safety and focus of the students, we ask that church members kindly check the calendar or coordinate with the office before entering the Fellowship Hall during school hours.
BSA Pinewood Derby Weigh-in
We are proud to partner with out local boy scout troops and host their meetings in our Fellowship Hall. On select Sunday evenings, our halls are filled with the energy of young explorers learning life skills, serving our community, and having fun. We love hosting these future leaders and their families as they grow in character and citizenship.
Hilltop Movie Night
As part of our partnership with Hilltop Nursery School, their students use our Fellowship Hall from time to time for enrichment activities, including music, movement, and indoor play.
This collaboration allows the children a safe, spacious environment to grow and learn. We love hearing the joyful sounds of learning filling our halls during the week!
Please Note: To ensure the safety and focus of the students, we ask that church members kindly check the calendar or coordinate with the office before entering the Fellowship Hall during school hours.
Bible Study
Join us as we explore God's Word together! Our Bible study sessions offer a welcoming environment for people at all stages of their faith journey. Whether you're new to Scripture or a seasoned reader, you'll find opportunities to deepen your understanding, ask questions, and apply biblical teachings to your daily life.
All are welcome! Bring your Bible or use one of ours.
Hilltop Enrichment
As part of our partnership with Hilltop Nursery School, their students use our Fellowship Hall from time to time for enrichment activities, including music, movement, and indoor play.
This collaboration allows the children a safe, spacious environment to grow and learn. We love hearing the joyful sounds of learning filling our halls during the week!
Please Note: To ensure the safety and focus of the students, we ask that church members kindly check the calendar or coordinate with the office before entering the Fellowship Hall during school hours.
Project Sweet Peas: NICU Blankets & Dog Toys
Join us for a no-sew blanket making craft that all ages can help with. Blankets will be delivered to local hospitals to be given to babies who are in the NICU. We will also be making dog toys that will be delivered to local animal shelters.
Sunday Worship
If you need a little more peace and joy in your life you'll find all of that and a warm welcome waiting for you when we gather in God's sanctuary every Sunday morning for our 10 a.m. worship service. If you can't join us in person we invite you to worship with us online.
Sunday School and our Middle School Holy Hangout are offered each Sunday during the service.
Faith & Fellowship Ministry
The mission of the Faith & Fellowship Ministry is to nurture and deepen relationships among the congregation and in the North Reading community with an emphasis on intergenerational friendships. Social gathering are family centered and all ages are involved in the planning of these activities. A variety of events are planned both at the church and around the town of North Reading.
Gordon Hayward Memorial Service
After 30 years as Assistant Vice President in the Treasury & Investment Banking Group at First National Bank in Boston, Gordon and his wife Nancy embraced the freedom to travel, moved to North Reading, and became members here at Union Congregational Church, where Gordon enjoyed helping with Frosty’s Fair. The couple also enjoyed many years as snowbirds in St. Augustine, FL, escaping New England winters.
Gordon was the beloved husband of Nancy (Merritt) Hayward; the devoted father of Sharon Williams of North Reading, MA, and Sandra Bakos and her husband Keith of Flemington, NJ; and the loving “Grampy” to Sarah Williams and Sonja Williams of North Reading, MA, and Alex Bakos and Ashley Bakos of Flemington, NJ. He was the dear brother of the late Winona Quick.
Family and friends are invited to gather for a memorial service on Saturday, January 31st, at 11:00 a.m. at the Union Congregational Church, 148 Haverhill Street, North Reading, MA 01864.
Youth Group: Big Bang
Youth group is open to all youth in grade 6-12 who want to spend time together on Friday evenings. Our meetings rotate through game nights, fellowship nights, service projects, and BIG BANGS (special outings like laser tag, corn mazes, mall scavenger hunts and more)!
You do not have to be a church member to attend, and youth are welcome to bring friends! Email Pastor Gayle for more information.
Confirmation Class
As part of the confirmation program, confirmands are matched with a mentor to walk with them along this important part of the journey. Confirmands also participate in formal classes as well as service projects, worship services, bible studies, stewardship activities, field trips, and an overnight retreat, and they serve as acolytes at our worship services.
Classes meet every Friday from 6-7 in the chapel. Confirmands are invited to stay for youth group following the class.
Council Meeting
In the UCC tradition, the local church is autonomous, meaning the power of the church rests in its members. The Council acts as the executive branch of that membership, serving as the primary governing body and "big picture" team of our congregation. Meeting monthly, this group of dedicated lay leaders works in covenant with our pastors to oversee the life, ministry, and strategic direction of the church.
North Parish Ringers Bell Choir Rehearsal
The North Parish Ringers play a vital role in our music ministry. Once a month the sound of bells can be heard offering praise to God during the service of worship.
Reading music is beneficial but not required. If you have the ability to count, you can participate in this music ministry. Rehearsals take place on Wednesday evenings from 6 – 7 p.m.
Ginger Gourmet Restaurant Fundraiser
Our Faith & Fellowship Ministry is partnering with Ginger Gourmet for a Restaurant Fundraising Night! Grab dinner on Wednesday, January 28 and mention the UCC fundraiser and 15% of sales will go back to Faith & Fellowship to help fund future events and service projects!
Chancel Choir Rehearsal
The Chancel Choir brings the gifts of song to our Sunday morning worship services. The choir does a variety of anthems from classical to contemporary to spirituals. All are welcome to join us!
Bible Study
Join us as we explore God's Word together! Our Bible study sessions offer a welcoming environment for people at all stages of their faith journey. Whether you're new to Scripture or a seasoned reader, you'll find opportunities to deepen your understanding, ask questions, and apply biblical teachings to your daily life.
All are welcome! Bring your Bible or use one of ours.
Fair Ministry Meeting
Annually, on the first weekend of December, the Union Congregational Church holds Frosty's Fair. This event is a cherished tradition that attracts hundreds from the local community and surrounding areas. The Fair Ministry oversees the organization and execution of the fair.
At our January meeting, we typically review the fair from the previous year and discuss and potential additions or changes for the coming year’s fair.