Board of Missions ~ Mission Resources From Within ~ Deacons Fund
Mission Overview
First Congregational has been a strong and quiet friend to many people through the years in many different ways. "Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve…" (Matthew 20:28), we reach out in mercy to care for the needs of others. Through our Mission Board, First Congregational has a broad outreach to both the local and wider communities.
But did you know that confidential assistance is available from the church for our own members and friends who need financial or other physical assistance? One of the ways that the church can offer help is through our Deacons' Fund. This is a small discretionary fund, which is maintained by the Board of Deacons. It is administered on a confidential basis by the pastor and has helped many families over a rough patch through the years.
In order to be good stewards on behalf of those who have given in good faith to the Deacons' Fund, money is not dispersed directly to an individual. Rather, a payment might be made to a utility, such as the electric or phone company, to cover or off-set a bill. The Deacons' Fund also purchases food and gasoline cards which can offer some temporary relief in a pinch.
If you or your family has a need, or you know of someone with a need, please contact the church. You may call the Pastor, Rev. Dr. Charles Hambrick-Stowe, the Parish Nurse, Debbie Wein, a Deacon, or the church office at 438-8077. All questions and comments will be handled with confidentiality.
Support for the Deacons' Fund is through the mercy and generosity of our own congregation. From time to time you may notice one of the red-bordered offering envelopes in your packet marked Deacons' Fund. However, it is not necessary to wait to use that particular envelope. You can just make a note on the memo line of your check. The check can be placed in the offering plate at any worship service or can be mailed to the church office: First Congregational Church, 103 Main Street, Ridgefield, CT 06877. Or you can donate electronically. 100% of your gift will be sent to the mission and all donations are fully tax deductible.
All FCC members and friends are invited and encouraged to follow Christ's example of love by becoming personally involved in the ongoing mission work of First Congregational Church.