Over 150 Years of Missions
From its inception, the First Congregational Church has been active in serving the community, whether "community" has been defined as those in our church, those in or around Allegan, or those across the miles. Included in the Covenant is a clear promise of such intentions: "We will watch over each other in the spirit of true charity, seeking to assist the needy, strengthen the weak, encourage the despondent, sympathize with the sorrowful...." The first known outreach program was shortly after the initial church structure was built in 1864, when a community service of mourning for the death of Abraham Lincoln was held.
A Missionary Society was started in the 1870's, with 11 members, meeting monthly in homes, and sending delegates to various district and state meetings. The group made quilts, repaired clothing for needy families, sewed layettes, collected books, and earned money to assist in medical and other aid for minister's wives and families as well as for foreign missions. In 1911 they were able to donate $100, their largest sum to date. In 1953, the group was disbanded to work under the Ladies Union.
Today, the Church and its members actively participate in a variety of missions opportunities both in the local community and abroad.
A Missionary Society was started in the 1870's, with 11 members, meeting monthly in homes, and sending delegates to various district and state meetings. The group made quilts, repaired clothing for needy families, sewed layettes, collected books, and earned money to assist in medical and other aid for minister's wives and families as well as for foreign missions. In 1911 they were able to donate $100, their largest sum to date. In 1953, the group was disbanded to work under the Ladies Union.
Today, the Church and its members actively participate in a variety of missions opportunities both in the local community and abroad.
Current Missions
Local Programs
- Congregational Kitchen
- Love, INC
- Allegan Food Pantry
- Allegan Ministerium
- Backpack Mission
- Camp Beechpoint
- Lakeshore Pregnancy
International Programs
- Ed and Valerie Johnson - World Team Missions in Paupau, New Guinea
- Will Dickerson - One Mission Society in Hungary
- John & Tricia Fraser - One Mission Society in Hungary
- Mission Mazahua - National Association of Congregational Christian Churches Missions in Mexico