Special Services
Maundy Thursday, the evening of the Last Supper and Jesus’s betrayal, is observed each year with a simple candle-light meal of bread, fruit and cheese. This is followed with a short service, called “The Office of Tenebrae,” during which candles are gradually extinguished while bible passages telling of the last hours of Jesus’s life are read. This is a special evening in the church year at Foothills.
Thanksgiving Day is significant in the Congregational Church because of our Pilgrim roots. At Foothills we have a morning worship service that includes readings, prayers and sermon topics that honor this history. The traditional five grains of corn are passed out to everyone as we remember the difficult first winter that the Pilgrims endured. A “harvest table” of finger food is enjoyed by everyone in the courtyard following the service.
Christmas Eve is celebrated with a family service at 5:00 P.M. and a traditional candlelight service with music by the Chancel Choir at 7:00 P.M., as well as Christmas messages and prayers. It is both a celebration and a quiet “time of waiting” in honor of Jesus’s birth. The services end with everyone exiting to the darkness of the courtyard, holding lighted candles and singing “Silent Night,” followed by a quiet departure.
Communion is a part of our worship service on the first Sunday of each month. Following a blessing by the minister, trays of bread and wine/water are passed to everyone by Deacons and ushers. We practice an open table and invite all to join with us in communion.
Baptisms
Baptisms are offered for people of any age when they wish to become a member of the Christian Church. Parents often make this commitment for their infant children. The UCC states: “With Baptism God embraces you — no matter who you are — and brings you into Christ’s Church. You become vital not only to a local church, but the wider Church. You share in the life, death, and resurrection of Christ. The church also promises to love, support, and care for you throughout your whole life. Baptized, you now participate fully in life of the Church and God’s realm.” Our ministers would be happy to discuss the process and vows with you.
Weddings
Weddings are often held at Foothills. A wedding is the celebration of a lasting commitment between two people who make a covenant of abiding love with each other. We look forward to sharing in this sacred and joyous occasion with you. Our minister can officiate at your wedding or if not available, recommend another minister for you. Our Sanctuary is capable of seating 150. We offer wedding coordinator, organist, music, custodial, and photography assistance. For more information, please call the church office.
Memorial Services
Memorial Services are always a difficult time of great stress, and we extend our deepest sympathy. We want to help you commemorate the person who has passed away and will work with you to plan a service that does this in the way you wish. Our ministers will be pleased to help you prepare a memorial service and to learn of any special wishes you may have. We offer assistance with scripture selections, music, and memorial fund considerations. The use of our facilities for members of Foothills Congregational Church is provided at no charge. For non-affiliated families, there are fees for use of the sanctuary and for other services. For more information, please call the church office.
