who we are

As progressive and open Christians, we seek peace and justice for all of creation.

Congregation

Individuals in Community

We come together as a community of individuals committed to living out the Good News. We are a diverse congregation, welcoming people of many different faiths, denominations, and backgrounds. Our Sunday service and the various ministries that manage the affairs of the church combine to celebrate life, reflect on the Gospel message, and support individual members of our church as they experience the fullness of life in all its dimensions.

At the same time, our church community seeks to ensure that our youth grow to understand and appreciate Christianity as a positive force in shaping our personal and collective values and in creating a world that is bound together in love and social justice.

— Regional Impact

The Charlemont Federated Church remains a unique source of spiritual, educational, physical, social, and financial support to the hill town communities of Western Franklin County.

— Church Outreach

In our church we recognize and celebrate important rites of passage-baptisms, weddings and funerals-for people from the hill town communities. Where there are individual financial emergencies, both within and without the immediate church family, our pastor responds on behalf of our congregation. Through the Good Neighbors Food Pantry, we join our energies, time, and talent with other faith and secular groups to provide support to local families in need. 

— Fellowship Hall

Our church building serves as a physical resource for a weekly senior citizens gathering, a local musical instruction program for children, birthplace and home of the Charlemont Forum, a thought provoking seminar series, and as the setting for the renowned Mohawk Trail Concerts whose distinguished professional talent bring the sound of music to these hills during the summer months.

Meet Interim Minister, Janet Adair Hansen

Residing in Charlemont with her dog Chiquita during this interim time, Janet joins the CFC to lead worship three Sundays per month and help our church along the journey of discernment in calling a settled minister. Please join us for worship on Sunday or stop in to say hello during her local weeks on Tuesday – Thursday 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM.

Denominational Affiliations

Originally a federation of Baptist, Methodist and Congregational churches over 100 years ago, Charlemont Federated Church is still officially affiliated with both the United Church of Christ and American Baptist Church (USA) denominations.

United Church of Christ (UCC)

The United Church of Christ motto: “No matter who you are, no matter where you are on life’s journey, you’re welcome here” is fully embraced by Charlemont Federated Church. As progressive and open Christians, we remember the life of Jesus Christ and the call towards living as best we can in God’s love, seeking peace and justice for all of creation.

American Baptist Church (ABCUSA)

The American Baptist Churches are “missional congregations that nurture devoted disciples of Jesus Christ who live their lives in mission and ministry for the healing of the world through the love of God.” American Baptists recognize the priesthood of all believers, affirm the freedom and responsibility of individual Christians to interpret scripture as the Holy Spirit leads, the autonomy of the local church, separation of church and state, and associational principles.

How We’re Organized

Members of the congregation support the ministries with time and talent and funds. The Ministries are composed of people called forth from the congregation and set apart to their tasks by the Holy Spirit and by their own devotion to the work of this Church.

The purpose of the Ministries is to accomplish the work of the Church by means that celebrate the spiritual and practical benefits in working together for ourselves, for our Church, and for our community.

Members are encouraged to seek alliance with the Ministries as seems comfortable with interests and skills.

The Diaconate is charged with promoting balance among the Ministries to ensure all essential areas are addressed, all voices heard, and no burden unshared. Communication is essential among the Ministries and with the congregation to help our Church reach our goals and purposes.

GIVING

Your gift enables the work of the Charlemont Federated Church!

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