Public Events

The First Sunday of Advent will be celebrated with services of Holy Eucharist both with and without music. The first of four candles in the large evergreen Advent wreath will be lit to mark the start of the season of reflection and expectation.

Join us on this First Sunday of the Advent season as we join together in prayer, song, scripture and sermon, preparing for the coming celebration of Christmas. In this time of year we light the Advent wreath and the annual visit from Brother Advent will delight the children and adults alike. All are welcome to join us. We are an Open and Affirming congregation of the United Church of Christ.

LOVE LIGHT TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY DECEMBER 1ST Belfast and surrounding area residents can remember a family member or friend during a special holiday event scheduled at The First Church in Belfast. The annual First Church "Love Light Tree" ceremony will be held Sunday, December 1st at 5:00 PM at the First Church in Belfast. The program includes inspirational readings and songs, plus the public reading of area residents who are no longer physically with us. Individuals can have names added to the Love Light list by purchasing an individual "Love Light" or a "String of Love Lights". The contribution for a single light is $5 or $25 for a string of lights. "Love Light" purchase order forms are available at the office of The First Church in Belfast at 8 Court Street, Christmas Shoppe at 76 Main Street, and the Belfast Area Chamber of Commerce, 14 Main Street. Lights should be ordered by Nov. 21st to be included in the Dec. 1st ceremony. Additional information about the program can be obtained by contacting The First Church at 207-338-2282.

In keeping with the liturgical meaning of the pre-Christmas season of Advent, a Quiet Day will replace regular service. The day will include three meditation times led by the Rev. John Nieman and conclude with Holy Eucharist and prayers for healing. The opportunity for quiet contemplation is open to all. Participants are invited to bring whatever personal resources they would like to have knitting, art supplies, journals, reading materials for the day. Books and reading materials will also be available at the church. A simple lunch will be provided without charge, and those who expect to attend are asked to notify the church office at 338-2412 so there will be an accurate head count in advance.

Early Bird Brunch - Saturday, Dec. 7, 8:00-10:30 am - The First Church in Belfast, UCC, 55 Spring Street entrance. Menu: Scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, French toast casserole, biscuits and gravy, fruit, beverages - all for only $5! The First Church is an Open and Affirming Congregation, ADA Accessible, located at 104 Church Street and 8 Court Street in Belfast. For more information, please call the church office at 338-2282 or check us out on Facebook @FirstChurchinBelfastUCC or our website: www.firstchurchinbelfast.org .

Many gift-able books and treats available at reasonable prices

The Second Sunday in Advent will be observed with services of Holy Eucharist with and without music. Coffee hour with refreshments will be available between services in the parish house. Services for healing with Holy Eucharist are on Wednesdays, except Christmas Day, at 9:30 AM.

Community Christmas Concert & Carol Sing Sunday, Dec. 8th, 2:00 pm First Baptist Church of Belfast (95 High St.) The First Baptist Church of Belfast in conjunction with the Greater Bay Area Ministerium invites musicians from all faith communities in the Belfast-Searsport area to join us for a Community Christmas Concert & Carol Sing. Each choir or ensemble will have the opportunity to perform 1 or 2 pieces and all will join together for a closing number. Choir directors or a contact for each group should contact the First Baptist Church (338-2544) by Dec. 1st if they plan to participate. A rehearsal for all participants for the final number will be held at 1:00 pm the day of the concert. A reception will follow in the church Fellowship Hall. All are encouraged to bring a treat to share. Everyone from the community is welcome to come and share in this time of singing and celebration of the Christmas message!