Franklin Federated Church announces Rev Oughton as new pastor effective Sep 26, 2022

The Franklin Federated Church is thrilled to announce that the Reverend Doreen Cullen Oughton was confirmed as our new pastor by a congregational vote on August 7, 2022. She will begin her ministry at our church on September 26, and her first worship service will be on Sunday, October 2nd at 10 AM.  

Please join us! 

Reverend Doreen Oughton

The Reverend Doreen Oughton has an M.S. in Counseling Psychology from Northeastern University and earned her Master of Divinity from Andover Newton Theological School. She is an experienced pastor who has served as a solo, fulltime pastor for over twelve years. Prior to her ministry, she worked for many years as a therapist in addictions treatment. She is the current chair of the UCC Central Association Committee on Ministry and has served on the Board of Directors and Restorative Justice Committee. She has also been actively involved in the NAACP for many years and is a certified Racial Justice Facilitator.

We are excited to call a pastor with such a wealth of experience and a soulful energy and enthusiasm for the work of the church.    

All in the community are welcome to attend Rev. Oughton's first service on October 2 beginning at 10 AM.  Fellowship with light refreshments will follow the service.

Franklin Federated Church is:  A Community of Abundant Welcome to All, Growing Together in Christ and serving with Love   https://franklinfederated.org/

You can help raise funds to support the National Black Doll Museum at the Strawberry Stroll

Franklin Federated Church's Social Justice Team is helping raise funds to support the National Black Doll Museum (formerly in Mansfield) which is looking for a new home. (https://nbdmhc.org).The museum's collection of black dolls is amazing enough, but the facility will be so much more, including services and  workshops.

The SJT will be selling pencil dolls , made by the Museum's director, at the Strawberry Stroll on June 10.  All proceeds will go towards the Museum's building fund. 

More information will be available at the Strawberry Stroll.  FFC's table will be located in front of Envoy Mortgage (between Greco Designs and Escape Into Fiction.)

You can help raise funds to support the National Black Doll Museum at the Strawberry Stroll

Spring Fling Online Auction starts May 8, closes May 18

The Franklin Federated Church is holding a "Spring Fling Online Auction."

• Bidding begins Sunday, May 8 at 11 AM
• Bidding ends  Wednesday May 18 at 8 PM

Bidders can begin viewing items at https://www.32auctions.com/ffc2022  or by going to franklinfederated.org and clicking on the 32auctions link

Download a copy of the flyer -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jwGCsgfLAUW-KVT-TYGhNivobx9Mu1tW/view?usp=sharing

Spring Fling Online Auction starts May 8, closes May 18

Franklin Federated Church: Advent and Christmas Activities 2021

• 12/11   Saturday  7 PM

Dr. Seuss' Original TV special  

(26 min) "How the Grinch Stole Christmas"

in the Sanctuary.  Enjoy a craft and trinket to remember those in our hearts at Christmas.

Sundays, Dec.12, 19 & 24 join us on Facebook, in person or livestream for Advent/Christmas services at franklinfederated.org

• 12/19     Sunday  7 PM

Outdoor Christmas Caroling

Front lawn of Franklin Federated Church.  Sing carols around the firepit, drink hot chocolate and share fellowship. (Hot Chocolate and other snacks will be available from C&C Food Truck) 

Sundays Dec. 12, 19 & 24, join us on Facebook, in person or livestream for Advent/Christmas services at franklinfederated.org

Franklin Federated Church: Advent and Christmas Activities 2021

Franklin Federated: Rummage Sale - Oct 16

Franklin Federated: Rummage Sale

WE'RE BACK!

Outstanding donations and we want to sell it all.  

"Curated " clothing for adults and children. Large selection for average, tall, and  large men.  Some new, all VG condition. Dress pants, women's tops, blazers, coats, jeans, children hats, gloves, home decor, Christmas dishes, ornaments, jewelry, puzzles, books. You name it, it's probably at the FFC Rummage Sale. 

Come early for best selection.

Hours: 9 AM to 2 PM; Half price sale begins at 1 PM

Reminder: Franklin Federated Church - "Go for the Green" Online Auction - ends Mar 17

"Go for the Green" Online Auction

Welcome to our exciting virtual fundraiser!

Bidding will last 10 days, from March 7^th @ noon to 

St. Patrick's Day-March 17th @ 8 pm

 

To participate in the auction  https://www.32auctions.com/organizations/79619
 

Join the fun! Help us help Franklin Federated Church. 

"Go for the Green" Online Auction - ends Mar 17

"Go For The Green!" Online Silent Auction - opens March 7

 
Big Fundraising News!!
The "Go for the Green" Online Auction
Is coming in March

Welcome to our exciting virtual fundraiser!

Bidding will last 10 days, from March 7^th @ noon to 

St. Patrick's Day-March 17th @ 8 pm

 

In March, we will explain how to access the auction and spread the word.
 

Join the fun! Help us help Franklin Federated Church. 

      More information to follow before March 7. For updates check out franklinfederated.org

 

Franklin Federated Church - Christmas Eve Service - Dec 24

Franklin Federated Church will LIVESTREAM  special Christmas services via the FFC Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/franklinfederated) 

Thursday, December 24 = 5:00 PM

Christmas Eve Worship (Live)

• Reading of Clement Moore's "Twas the Night Before Christmas"
• Reading from Luke 2....The story of Jesus's birth
• Christmas Carols
• Candle lighting 

Franklin Federated Church - Christmas Eve Service - Dec  24

Franklin Federated Church - Christmas Services - Dec 20 and Dec 24

Franklin Federated Church will LIVESTREAM  special Christmas services via the FFC Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/franklinfederated) 

 
Sunday, December 20 = 10:00 AM  

Story of Jesus's birth

• Readers will be live and on video 
• Carols
• Jenna Van Hyning on guitar "Mary Did You Know" 
• Grace Newton playing violin "Silent Night"

------------------------------------------------------
 
Franklin Federated Church will LIVESTREAM  special Christmas services via the FFC Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/franklinfederated) 

Thursday, December 24 = 5:00 PM

Christmas Eve Worship (Live)

• Reading of Clement Moore's "Twas the Night Before Christmas"
• Reading from Luke 2....The story of Jesus's birth
• Christmas Carols
• Candle lighting 

Franklin Federated Church - Christmas Services - Dec 20 and Dec 24

Hold the date: Missions Food Pantry Collection on Sept 25

Franklin Federated Church will be helping our neighbors in need in Franklin.  The collection is scheduled for Sept 25, 2020 rain or shine. Additional information contained in the PDF flyer here

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1n4hXxAW8a2ngI5hDlw1G40OFyPbZwwEh/view?usp=sharing

 

Hold the date: Missions Food Pantry Collection on Sept 25

 

Sidewalk Sale! Franklin Federated Church Friday, July 24, 12-5

Franklin Federated Church at 171 Main Street is in the process of renovating and upgrading its dining room and kitchen. On Friday, July 24 from 12-5, as a result of intense cleaning and purging of the cabinets, church members will set up tables at the church containing silverware, utensils, dishes, glassware, etc.

The public is invited to peruse the items, take what they want, and make a goodwill donation. 

• No pricing, no money exchanging hands. 
• No direct social contact needed but some masked, friendly conversation always welcome.

Sidewalk Sale! Franklin Federated Church Friday, July 24, 12-5

Franklin Federated Church rings the bell Fridays at 7 PM

If you happen to be walking in the vicinity of the Town Common at 7 PM on a Friday night, there is a good chance you will hear the ringing of a steeple bell.

Since April, a small group of volunteers from Franklin Federated Church has rotated the responsibility of ringing the bell every Friday evening.

It is FFC’s weekly reminder to the congregation and the community to continue to remember first responders and all workers who maintain essential services, taking risks every day to create some semblance of normal life and giving hope to all during this pandemic and a sincere thanks to each and every one.

Note: the schedule currently is set for the bell ringing at least through August

Franklin Federated Church rings the bell Fridays at 7 PM

Don’s Shirts Day - Nov 3

On Sunday, November 3, Franklin Federated Church will celebrate the many talents of long-time Franklin resident and FFC member, Don Goddard. Don has sewn over 150, one-of-a-kind themed shirts depicting holidays, hobbies and superheros, to name a few. Also exhibited will be a sampling of his fine carpentry skills. 

The public is welcome to attend morning worship and communion from 10 AM - 11 AM during which time the shirts will be displayed and some worn by members. Fellowship and refreshments follow the service. FFC will continue to welcome the public until 1 PM. 

Franklin Federated Church, located at 171 Main Street, is a Welcoming and Affirming Church, members of both the Association of Welcoming and Affirming Baptists and the United Church of Christ Coalition for LGBT Concerns. “No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.”

Don’s Shirts Day - Nov 3

For more about Franklin Federated Church, visit them on the web http://franklinfederated.org/

Franklin Federated - Yard Sale - Oct 19

Mark your calendars for the annual rummage sale to be held October 19 from 9 AM until 2 PM. 

There will be items for the whole family including clothing, shoes, games, puzzles and toys, household items, furniture, baby things, crafts, and even an entire room dedicated to jewelry and holiday items. 

Half price sale begins at 1 PM

 

Franklin Federated - Yard Sale - Oct 19

Art Auction - Sep 28, 2019

Art Auction

Sponsored by

Franklin Federated Church

on

Saturday Evening, September 28, 2019

at

Franklin Federated Church

171 Main Street

Franklin, Ma 02038

Preview: 7:00 p.m. Auction: 8:00 p.m.
Admission: $15.00 per person

Door Prizes
Hors D’oeuvres ~ Wine ~ Cheese

For Tickets or Information Call:
Franklin Federated Church (508) 528-3803

Send check payable to: 
Franklin Federated Church, 171 Main Street Franklin, Ma 02038
Major credit cards accepted for art purchases
Featuring Art in All Media and Price Ranges


Get your copy of the flyer:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0wjbnXDBhczYUhfd0t5WUUwUEprcTJUNklZdUpnQkJueU1B/view?usp=sharing

Art Auction - Sep 28, 2019

Franklin Federated Church to host New England Bell Ringers on Nov 24

Franklin Federated Church presents "A Few of Your Favorite Things," a concert featuring New England’s premier community handbell ensemble, the New England Ringers, on Saturday, Nov 24 at 7:30 PM at the church at 171 Main Street.

The 2018 holiday program will be like none other! This will be a completely audience driven performance, with every concert being different. The 13-member ensemble has prepared over 18 different pieces for audience members to choose which selections they would like to hear! 

The program is filled with a diversity of style -- music rich in grand symphonic moments plus delightfully light and airy carols and tunes reminiscent of snowy winter days. Some fan favorites will definitely be included, such as Angels We Have Heard on High, The First Noel, and God Rest Ye Merry, Gentleman. There will be FUN and Surprise!

With its commitment to musical excellence, focus on eclectic programming to appeal to a variety of musical tastes, and a healthy dash of showmanship, New England Ringers has been entertaining audiences of all ages for seventeen exciting years throughout New England, New York and Pennsylvania. 

Franklin Federated Church to host New England Bell Ringers on Nov 24

The highly energetic performers showcase their talents in a uniquely varied program playing with sensitivity, discipline and skill to achieve their signature artistry on a handbell instrument comprised of six octaves of both Schulmerich handbells and Malmark handchimes along with other instruments.

Tickets for the concert are $15 each. They can be purchased at the door, or in advance by calling the church office at 508-528-3803. Proceeds from the concert will benefit the mission and ministry of Franklin Federated Church, a welcoming and affirming congregation of the United Church of Christ and American Baptist Churches.

Franklin Federated Church is accessible to the disabled via a ramp off the left driveway next to the church.

Franklin Federated Church - Yard Sale - Oct 13

Franklin Federated Church 
Yard Sale

Saturday, October 13

9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

We are looking for new and gently used CLEAN donations of books, toys, clothes, household items, small furniture, jewelry, unique items, and antiques.

Last day to donate is October 6  (Please do not wait to DONATE)

Regretfully, we cannot sell computers or monitors, televisions, large exercise equipment, car seats, cribs, mattresses, upholstered furniture, skis, encyclopedias, and stuffed animals.

Donations can be left outside behind the church on the right side or inside the youth room as indicated.

Please Do Not Block the Doors!

Franklin Federated Church - Yard Sale - Oct 13

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Z1LpZ1dBqbKvQFypyhb1FG52ljAsWtGH/view?usp=sharing

Reminder: Franklin Federated Church - Birthday Celebration - Oct 14

On Sunday, October 14, Franklin Federated Church will host a birthday celebration commemorating the formation of the First Congregational Church of Franklin (1738), the First Baptist Church of Franklin (1868) and the subsequent federation of the two churches (1938).

Original church council ledgers dating from 1846, artifacts from the church’s historical room, a pictorial roster of ministers since 1738, and photo albums depicting church members and activities from 1938 to present will be available for perusal during the event. 

A short humorous skit, “The Music Wars”, written by Church Historian Lyn Pickhover, will be performed as part of the regular service. The skit is based on an actual event in church records from 1738, the records of which are now on permanent loan to the Congregational Library in Boston.

The Franklin Federated Church is located at 171 Main Street, Franklin, directly opposite the Common. Services are held on Sundays at 10 a.m. All are welcome.

Franklin Federated Church - Birthday Celebration - Oct 14

Franklin Federated Church - Birthday Celebration - Oct 14

On Sunday, October 14, Franklin Federated Church will host a birthday celebration commemorating the formation of the First Congregational Church of Franklin (1738), the First Baptist Church of Franklin (1868) and the subsequent federation of the two churches (1938).

Original church council ledgers dating from 1846, artifacts from the church’s historical room, a pictorial roster of ministers since 1738, and photo albums depicting church members and activities from 1938 to present will be available for perusal during the event. 

A short humorous skit, “The Music Wars”, written by Church Historian Lyn Pickhover, will be performed as part of the regular service. The skit is based on an actual event in church records from 1738, the records of which are now on permanent loan to the Congregational Library in Boston.

The Franklin Federated Church is located at 171 Main Street, Franklin, directly opposite the Common. Services are held on Sundays at 10 a.m. All are welcome.

Franklin Federated Church - Birthday Celebration - Oct 14

In the News: stained glass being restored; student walkouts planned

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Accompanied by the shrill of an electric saw, and a clinking rainfall of decades-old glazing, an entire wall of stained glass windows was extracted over the course of three days from the historic Franklin Federated Church -- bound for a Minnesota workshop to be restored to their original glory. 

Under the guidance of project manager Kit Sherwood, of Willet-Hauser Stained Glass, each delicate panel was meticulously freed from the glazing and tiny nails that held them in place. Panels were carefully tipped out, set down and lowered to the ground on a mechanical elevated work platform. There, each panel was handed over to two other team members - Sherwood’s nephew, Tyson, and brother in-law, Jimmy Cope - to be taped and cautiously packed between layers of padding into a shipping container. 

“It’s a little nerve-wracking,” admitted Sherwood, seeming relieved to have the panel he just removed safely secured with an “x” of blue tape and nestled into place among the other panels in the packing container."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20180311/stained-glass-from-franklin-church-to-undergo-restoration

Related posting
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2018/03/franklin-federated-church-stained-glass.html

The large center window was removed first

Then the smaller surrounding windows were removed

"As schools around the country brace for student walkouts following the deadly shooting in Parkland, Florida, principals and superintendents are scrambling to perform a delicate balancing act: How to let thousands of students exercise their First Amendment rights while not disrupting school and not pulling administrators into the raging debate over gun control. 

Some have taken a hard line, promising to suspend students who walk out, while others are using a softer approach, working with students to set up places on campus where they can remember the victims of the Florida shooting and express their views about school safety and gun control. 

Since the Feb. 14 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, demonstrations have sprung up on school campuses around the country. But the first large-scale, coordinated national demonstration is planned for March 14, when organizers of the Women’s March have called for a 17-minute walkout, one minute for each of the 17 students and staff members killed in Florida."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/ZZ/20180311/NEWS/180319987

The Pantherbook article on the FHS student walkout was posted here earlier
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2018/03/pantherbook-walkout-planned-at-franklin.html

Pantherbook: "A Walkout Planned at Franklin High"