Much more than a building — it's a place of fellowship, solace & contemplation!
Sunday, January 12, 2025 - Worship 10:00 AM (In person or via ZOOM)
Sermon: Befriending Love - Kathleen Reed, Pastor To join via ZOOM, please contact us at (617) 479-8778 or [email protected] |
Houghs Neck Congregational Church (UCC)
310 Manet Avenue Quincy, MA 02169 (617) 479-8778 Parking & Directions |
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Are you searching for a spiritual home where all are welcome? Look no further. When our forefathers and mothers settled and formed a church in Houghs Neck 129 years ago, they did so to provide a Christian community that would affirm who they were, their histories, their families and their deep faith in a loving God and their unity in the spirit. It is this legacy that we continue to lift up.
We are an open Community of Faith serving the families and people of Houghs Neck, Quincy and surrounding communities. We seek to create a space for all believers who know their spiritual pilgrimage is one among many. We seek to honor each person’s walk with God and see others who seek the loving presence of God as brothers and sisters.
We are an open Community of Faith serving the families and people of Houghs Neck, Quincy and surrounding communities. We seek to create a space for all believers who know their spiritual pilgrimage is one among many. We seek to honor each person’s walk with God and see others who seek the loving presence of God as brothers and sisters.
Pastor’s Message - January 2025
Ephesians 2:19–22 - So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone1 in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.
1 Peter 2:5 - you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 2:19–22 - So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone1 in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.
1 Peter 2:5 - you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
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For us who get to worship in a church erected beam by beam and stone by stone by the original members of HNCC, these scriptures have special meaning. Being “living stones” that are “being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit” is more than metaphor. It’s our legacy and our calling, and no one understands this better than our trustees. With the alacrity of steeplejacks, help from a boom lift, and a support crew on the ground, on the day before Thanksgiving, Frank Catrambone, Rob Gordon, Chris Jacobs, Ralph Jacobs, Jake Gordon, Harry Olson, and Joe Flores successfully endeavored to fix our bell’s reluctance to ring. While not scaling the heights that day, Marty Gordon insured the project’s completion with scrupulous planning.
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In keeping with our church’s tendency to hide epiphanies in the highest places (e.g. paper airplane in rafter over the pulpit), the belfry ascension supplied a new mystery to unravel. Cast into the bell were the name and location of the bell maker - McShane of Baltimore; the year of its creation -1913; and a dedication: "In Memory of Annie I. Acorn by a Friend.”
The McShane Bell Company is still in business and responded with haste to my email inquiry for more information. According to their ledger from 1913, the bell had been ordered by the Peoples Union Church of Houghs Neck, at a cost of $300 (a hefty sum at that time). McShane could not offer any clues on the identity of Annie I. Acorn or her friend.
As a relative newcomer to our church, I went to the history written by Beth Little posted on our website. The Peoples Union Chapel, 64 Bay View Ave, added a bell and belfry to their building in 1913. In 1928, Peoples Union came together with the Congregational Church of Christ, bringing their bell with them to be joined into the structure in which we worship today. I would love to know more about Annie Acorn and her friend…
The McShane Bell Company is still in business and responded with haste to my email inquiry for more information. According to their ledger from 1913, the bell had been ordered by the Peoples Union Church of Houghs Neck, at a cost of $300 (a hefty sum at that time). McShane could not offer any clues on the identity of Annie I. Acorn or her friend.
As a relative newcomer to our church, I went to the history written by Beth Little posted on our website. The Peoples Union Chapel, 64 Bay View Ave, added a bell and belfry to their building in 1913. In 1928, Peoples Union came together with the Congregational Church of Christ, bringing their bell with them to be joined into the structure in which we worship today. I would love to know more about Annie Acorn and her friend…
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The purpose of a church bell is timely communication: God is here! We are here! Come and join us! Now! Today, as back then, the bell tolls on a schedule. Just ask our neighbors: 9:50 am on Sunday. But while a church bell’s message was self-evident a hundred years ago, in our current “information age,” some enhancements are called for. Like a lighted LED sign to pierce the fog with space for updateable details on the church’s life and outreach to our community. Such a communication tool, like a bell in 1913, comes at a price. But as there was a donor in 1913 with a desire to honor the memory of a loved one, today the family of Beth Little is honoring her memory with a generous gift that makes our new sign possible. Over the days leading up to Christmas, Marty and the trustee-elves tracked the sign’s journey over hill and dale. Lo and behold, it arrived before Christmas. As I write, the trustee work party is scheduled. By the time you read this, the sign-lighting may be complete!
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As Marty likes to say, “This is My Joy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”
With gratitude for the memories of Annie Acorn and Beth Little, as the living stones of faith for this place and time,. This. Is. Our. Joy!
Happy New Year! Pastor Kathleen
With gratitude for the memories of Annie Acorn and Beth Little, as the living stones of faith for this place and time,. This. Is. Our. Joy!
Happy New Year! Pastor Kathleen
upcoming events in the life of our church
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Calling All Who Love to Sing! |
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Both the Merriam-Webster and Oxford English Dictionaries define a choir as an organized company of singers. Neither state that you have to be able to read music, have perfect pitch or an amazing voice. The Houghs Neck Congregational Church choir welcomes anyone who loves to sing. Each Wednesday evening from September through May, our talented director Steve Reed works with us going over individual parts until we are comfortable with them then magically combines our voices and voila - we have a four-part anthem for our Sunday service!
So, if you love to sing, give us a try. We meet at the Church (310 Manet Avenue, Quincy, MA 02169) Wednesday evenings from 6:00-7:30 PM then again at 9:30 AM Sunday mornings to prepare for the 10:00 AM Worship Service.
Bible, Brews & Qs - Wednesdays 10-11AM - Luke
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Gather for a midweek pick me up. Bible for inspiration,
Brewed coffee and the Questions we all wrestle with. To join via ZOOM, please contact us at (617) 479-8778 or [email protected] Houghs Neck Congregational Church (Coffee Room) 310 Manet Avenue Quincy, MA 02169 |
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POINSETTIA PROJECT 2024
The Seaside Social Club thanks you for your continued support in honoring your
loved ones and beautifying our sanctuary during the Christmas season.
Harry Olson - In memory of Betty Olson and Florence and Harry Olson Sr.
Carol Hallett - In honor of our grandchildren Ian, Sean and Laura.
Rosemary Gaura - In memory of Robert James Gaura, Marjorie and Herbert Dunn.
Gayle and Jim Mackay- In memory of the angels in my life. In honor of my children and grandchildren.
Pam Craig - In memory of Bob Craig, Tom, Lil, Bunny, Ruthie, Gail, Bo, and Lois.
Rose Costas - In memory of loved ones. In honor of Laurel Wainwright and Pat Murphy.
Anonymous - In memory of loved ones.
Ruth and Don Gamble - In memory of Connie McGuire.
Shirley Pearson - In memory of Frank and Minnie Keith, Robert Pearson, James Bassett, Gladys Barnes and Irene Zibell.
Joe and Moe Flores - In memory of Eunice and Fred Flores, Ruth and Bill Flynn.
Judy Crowley - In memory of Joan Kirby.
David and Kathy DiBona - In memory of Norval and Virginia Welliver. In honor of our son David DiBona.
Christine Keating - In memory of Joseph O’Neil, Jane Neale, Beverly and Jack Reddington, and Joey Cherico. In honor of family & friends.
Lois Zulauf - In memory of Joan Kirby from Jennie Massa Reed. In honor of Steve Reed and the choir
The Gordon Family - In memory our dearly departed family members. In honor of our family
Rob and Sue Rheault - In honor of Grammy and Pa, Alex, Luke and Jimmy
The Robbins Family - In memory of Richard Robbins.
Ralph Freeman Jr. and George - In memory of Ralph and Ada Freeman.
Karen Bishop - In memory of Linda Kelleher, Joyce and Walter Bishop, Mamie Stevenson, Peter and Alicia Corea, Joanie Kirby, and Shirley Harrington.
Ralph and Nancy Jacobs - In memory of our angels in Heaven. In honor of our children and grandsons
Jean Hawes - In honor of my aunt Barbara Christie.
Steve and Kathleen Reed - In honor of Houghs Neck Congregational Church beloveds.
Carol Lee Wilson - In memory of Donald Gamble Jr. In honor of Tom and Jean Hawes and Shirley Pearson
The Seaside Social Club thanks you for your continued support in honoring your
loved ones and beautifying our sanctuary during the Christmas season.
Harry Olson - In memory of Betty Olson and Florence and Harry Olson Sr.
Carol Hallett - In honor of our grandchildren Ian, Sean and Laura.
Rosemary Gaura - In memory of Robert James Gaura, Marjorie and Herbert Dunn.
Gayle and Jim Mackay- In memory of the angels in my life. In honor of my children and grandchildren.
Pam Craig - In memory of Bob Craig, Tom, Lil, Bunny, Ruthie, Gail, Bo, and Lois.
Rose Costas - In memory of loved ones. In honor of Laurel Wainwright and Pat Murphy.
Anonymous - In memory of loved ones.
Ruth and Don Gamble - In memory of Connie McGuire.
Shirley Pearson - In memory of Frank and Minnie Keith, Robert Pearson, James Bassett, Gladys Barnes and Irene Zibell.
Joe and Moe Flores - In memory of Eunice and Fred Flores, Ruth and Bill Flynn.
Judy Crowley - In memory of Joan Kirby.
David and Kathy DiBona - In memory of Norval and Virginia Welliver. In honor of our son David DiBona.
Christine Keating - In memory of Joseph O’Neil, Jane Neale, Beverly and Jack Reddington, and Joey Cherico. In honor of family & friends.
Lois Zulauf - In memory of Joan Kirby from Jennie Massa Reed. In honor of Steve Reed and the choir
The Gordon Family - In memory our dearly departed family members. In honor of our family
Rob and Sue Rheault - In honor of Grammy and Pa, Alex, Luke and Jimmy
The Robbins Family - In memory of Richard Robbins.
Ralph Freeman Jr. and George - In memory of Ralph and Ada Freeman.
Karen Bishop - In memory of Linda Kelleher, Joyce and Walter Bishop, Mamie Stevenson, Peter and Alicia Corea, Joanie Kirby, and Shirley Harrington.
Ralph and Nancy Jacobs - In memory of our angels in Heaven. In honor of our children and grandsons
Jean Hawes - In honor of my aunt Barbara Christie.
Steve and Kathleen Reed - In honor of Houghs Neck Congregational Church beloveds.
Carol Lee Wilson - In memory of Donald Gamble Jr. In honor of Tom and Jean Hawes and Shirley Pearson
Eldy’s Yoga
Houghs Neck Congregational Church – lower level
Tuesdays 1:00–2:00PM
Cost $5 per session
Let’s Get Moving – Even if you think you can’t
Eldy’s yoga was developed specifically for those over 50 or those with joint issues who might find other forms of exercise difficult. The sessions can be done entirely from a seated position or can be done standing and seated (no poses that require you to be on the floor). You will learn to coordinate your breath and movement. You will also increase your strength and flexibility. If this sounds right for you please join us with our certified yoga instructor, Linda Beck. Hope to see you there. Namaste.
Houghs Neck Congregational Church – lower level
Tuesdays 1:00–2:00PM
Cost $5 per session
Let’s Get Moving – Even if you think you can’t
Eldy’s yoga was developed specifically for those over 50 or those with joint issues who might find other forms of exercise difficult. The sessions can be done entirely from a seated position or can be done standing and seated (no poses that require you to be on the floor). You will learn to coordinate your breath and movement. You will also increase your strength and flexibility. If this sounds right for you please join us with our certified yoga instructor, Linda Beck. Hope to see you there. Namaste.
Pillows for Dove
Each February the Mission Committee selects a winter project. This year, we will collect new bed pillows for DOVE clients. When clients arrive, they receive new pillows and take the pillows with them when they leave. I am letting you know about this drive now since there are often white sales in January when pillows would be on sale. So stock up and be ready to bring new pillows to church in February. Thank you.
Each February the Mission Committee selects a winter project. This year, we will collect new bed pillows for DOVE clients. When clients arrive, they receive new pillows and take the pillows with them when they leave. I am letting you know about this drive now since there are often white sales in January when pillows would be on sale. So stock up and be ready to bring new pillows to church in February. Thank you.
MALLORY JACOBS AWARDED GIRL SCOUTINGS' MEDAL OF HONOR
Mallory Jacobs, age 13, who has been a Quincy Girl Scout for 9 years (and a member of our church) has been formally recognized by Girl Scouts USA with one of the highest honors in Girl Scouting, The Medal of Honor, for her actions on August 12, 2024 that helped save her cousin’s life in an emergency.
Girl Scout Lifesaving awards are given to registered Girl Scouts who have saved a human life or attempted to save it under circumstances that indicate heroism and sound judgment beyond the degree of maturity and training to be expected at their age. The Medal of Honor is one of Girl Scouts USA’s rarest awards and is an achievement only a select few have ever gotten. Mallory is the first in Quincy Scouting to receive this honor.
This past August, Mallory and her family were exploring a system of natural caves in New Hampshire. Mallory’s 5 year old cousin Emily was having the best day ever exploring and was first of the group to enter a cave that narrows to only 14 inches wide. The rest of the family followed Emily single file into the cave. Emily unknowingly strayed from the public path and squeezed through a small opening, disappearing from view. Emily rather quickly became aware that she had gone the wrong way and suddenly her sense of fun turned to fear when she realized she was alone on the wrong side of the rocks, in the dark, and essentially trapped. It was too tight to turn around and come back, and she was not able to crawl out feet first due to an angle in the rocks that would cause her to fall. There were 6 adults present, all squished in a 14 inch wide crack in single file, but due to their size, no one could actually get to Emily. Mallory was 7th in line from Emily and had no way to see what was going on but she could hear a very scared Emily screaming out for help and yelling that she was going to fall. Despite not being able to see what was going on, Mallory had situational awareness that she was small enough and fast enough to go get help. Mallory decisively and quickly solo climbed backwards out of the entrance of the cave and went off by herself to get a park employee to help. When she returned with the park employee, she pointed him to the general area where her cousin was trapped. She followed the employee through the exit of the cave and reached the area where Emily was stuck. With help, Emily was able to get out unharmed and everyone was safe. But it was only because of Mallory’s quick actions that professional help arrived.
To be recognized with a Medal of Honor, the act of heroism is first brought to the attention of the regional Girl Scout Council, and then, if the regional council finds that the act meets the criteria, the application is sent to Girl Scouts USA for final approval. Less than 200 girls have received the award since 2017 and The Medal of Honor only goes out to less than 1% of the 1.7 million registered Girl Scouts across the country.
Mallory Jacobs, age 13, who has been a Quincy Girl Scout for 9 years (and a member of our church) has been formally recognized by Girl Scouts USA with one of the highest honors in Girl Scouting, The Medal of Honor, for her actions on August 12, 2024 that helped save her cousin’s life in an emergency.
Girl Scout Lifesaving awards are given to registered Girl Scouts who have saved a human life or attempted to save it under circumstances that indicate heroism and sound judgment beyond the degree of maturity and training to be expected at their age. The Medal of Honor is one of Girl Scouts USA’s rarest awards and is an achievement only a select few have ever gotten. Mallory is the first in Quincy Scouting to receive this honor.
This past August, Mallory and her family were exploring a system of natural caves in New Hampshire. Mallory’s 5 year old cousin Emily was having the best day ever exploring and was first of the group to enter a cave that narrows to only 14 inches wide. The rest of the family followed Emily single file into the cave. Emily unknowingly strayed from the public path and squeezed through a small opening, disappearing from view. Emily rather quickly became aware that she had gone the wrong way and suddenly her sense of fun turned to fear when she realized she was alone on the wrong side of the rocks, in the dark, and essentially trapped. It was too tight to turn around and come back, and she was not able to crawl out feet first due to an angle in the rocks that would cause her to fall. There were 6 adults present, all squished in a 14 inch wide crack in single file, but due to their size, no one could actually get to Emily. Mallory was 7th in line from Emily and had no way to see what was going on but she could hear a very scared Emily screaming out for help and yelling that she was going to fall. Despite not being able to see what was going on, Mallory had situational awareness that she was small enough and fast enough to go get help. Mallory decisively and quickly solo climbed backwards out of the entrance of the cave and went off by herself to get a park employee to help. When she returned with the park employee, she pointed him to the general area where her cousin was trapped. She followed the employee through the exit of the cave and reached the area where Emily was stuck. With help, Emily was able to get out unharmed and everyone was safe. But it was only because of Mallory’s quick actions that professional help arrived.
To be recognized with a Medal of Honor, the act of heroism is first brought to the attention of the regional Girl Scout Council, and then, if the regional council finds that the act meets the criteria, the application is sent to Girl Scouts USA for final approval. Less than 200 girls have received the award since 2017 and The Medal of Honor only goes out to less than 1% of the 1.7 million registered Girl Scouts across the country.
