Center Church The First Church of Christ in Hartford

Center Church is a progressive, diverse, Open and Affirming congregation of the United Church of Christ. Since its founding members and first minister, Thomas Hooker, established the city in 1636, there has always been a "Center Church" on Hartford's Main Street. As part of its continuing commitment to the city and region, Center Church provides for the immediate needs of the urban population through the work of Hands on Hartford, a consortium of Hartford faith communities that, for more than 35 years, has aided city residents with needs for food and shelter and in areas of counseling and tutoring. Center Church's history of offering visions for societal and governmental structures continues through its membership in the Greater Hartford Coalition For Equity and Justice, a collection of more than 40 religious institutions that seeks to bring about equitable societal change through legislative initiatives.

Diversity defines the membership of Center Church. Our "open and affirming" statement of 1994 states, "We open our doors and ministry to all, believing that each of us is a unique creation of God blessed with special talents and gifts." Our buildings have been and continue to be available to religious and community groups; in fact, in 1813 the first Roman Catholic Mass in Hartford was celebrated in Center Church.

Worship, concerts and large public events take place in the Meeting House, which is located at the corner of Main and Gold streets. Educational, youth, and fellowship programs are held in the Church House, which is located at 60 Gold Street (at the corner of Lewis Street). In addition, church offices are located in this building.

Worship at Center Church reflects our study of, reverence for, and curiosity about the Bible and other ways in which God is still speaking. It includes rich and varied music, prayers for individual and corporate needs, and sermons that continue to show us that, as John Robinson imparted to those who sailed on The Mayflower, "the Lord hath yet more light and truth to break forth from his Word!" Educational opportunities reflect these same tenets.