There is always something happening at First Church, but below are some highlights that occur throughout the year.

Christmas Pageant

Our youth work for several weeks with the help of volunteers to prepare for our annual Christmas Pageant. The script varies from year to year, but always the birth narrative is told and younger children are encouraged to participate as sheep, angels, shepherds, or magi. The Pageant is held at both services on the Sunday before Christmas; this is always a great event that reminds us all of the reason to celebrate Christmas and the great love God has for each and every one of us.

Craft Fest

Each year First Church joins with other area churches and organizations to hold a multi-site Craft Fest. Crafters are invited to set up booths to sell their creations, and the church has several options for shoppers as they visit us. Other than crafts, First Church offers a Silent Auction of goods and services that have been donated, a Sweet Shoppe of homemade treats, lunch options from the Heavenly Spirit Café, and a Nearly New area of donated items that are seeking a second home.

Easter Breakfast

Easter Breakfast is hosted by our youth following the Ecumenical Sunrise Service here in Essex Junction. Join us for the full breakfast buffet and great fellowship. A donation basket is on the table; money raised helps to support our youth and their next mission trip or retreat.

Praise-A-Palooza

Praise-A-Palooza is a wonderful musical event where multiple Praise Bands come and perform together. The concert is usually in mid winter so look in the bulletin for when this is happening!

Pretzel Sunday

Pretzel Sunday is a Lenten tradition that goes back centuries in the Christian faith. The shape of the pretzel is like the prayer posture for early Christians who crossed their arms over their chest, each hand touching the opposite shoulder. At First Church, the making of pretzels is a wonderful inter-generational event that everyone enjoys, and the reminder to be prayerful is always timely.

 Welcome Back Sunday

Welcome Back Sunday is a big celebration to mark the beginning of the Faith Formation Sunday School year. On the Sunday after Labor Day in September, following our second service, we hold a big barbecue with burgers, hot dogs and other delectable foods. It is a wonderful opportunity for members to share a meal and socialize while the younger crowd enjoys a bouncy house and other lawn activities.