Adam's Story

My name is Adam Whitten and I attend the Athol Congregational Church with my family - Ally and Scarlett. First and foremost, this church is a family with warm hearts and smiling faces that will greet you each time you step foot in this place. Though we have weekly Sunday services, the outreach of this church family can be felt all around as it seems the church is always looking to help more and wherever needs arise. For my family and I, we fell in love with the power and inspiration that this church community provides. Allowing and providing a place for little ones to learn about God and to do fun activities, while also having a music-inspired service, and of course a strong message that reaches everyone in different ways, this church does it all.

My family and I look forward to being a part of this church family as much as time will allow and we love how understanding and warm this group is. I sing in the church choir and also play bells and chimes in those various groups, too. The rest of my family participates and enjoys cooking, mom's group, vacation bible study, church fairs, and of course all the lovely dinners and shows put on throughout the year!

So, to sum up my family's experiences, we love being a part of what this church family stands for as well as growing and living our faith with those who attend, visit, and watch online. I would suggest to come say hi sometime and see for yourself and always feel free to approach us with any questions. I promise there will be smiles waiting for you!

Chuck's Story

I’ve gotten to the age where I have time to think about what I’m supposed to do instead of what I have to do (to take care of my family). It’s so much easier to find my purpose when surrounded by people who have similar wishes and when getting a weekly message from good teachers.

ACC is my spiritual home and finding it has been a great blessing to me. The missionary spirit is so strong here.  People seek ways to serve and that community effort helps inspire us all and bring us opportunities.

My church is a blessing to me, and I thank God I am home.

Heather's Story

I first came to the Athol Congregational Church in 2023 after the church I had attended all my life closed its doors. Upon entering the church, I was immediately struck with the warm and welcoming atmosphere. I could tell right away that this was a place where people wanted to be. I quickly became involved in the church as a member of the choir and handbell choir and in 2024 I became an official member.

ACC is very blessed to have two amazing pastors serving our parish. The dedication Rev. Candi and Rev. Cindy have to our church and their passion for inclusivity was evident to me from day one. They go out of their way to make their members feel like they belong by acknowledging their talents and encouraging their participation.  They both have worked very hard to make our church a warm, welcoming refuge for all people in the community. When they speak of their “Church Family”, they are not just paying lip service, but they honestly treat each member as one of their own. They are truly two of the most compassionate people I have had the pleasure of knowing.

At a time when many church memberships are dwindling, the fact that ACC’s membership is growing is a testament to something really special happening here.  If you are looking for a new church, I hope you will pay us a visit. You won’t be disappointed!

Bonnie's Story

"Missing pieces do more than complete a puzzle, they fill an empty space."  Luanne Rice

Arriving in Athol from Middlebury, Vt., I was quickly thrust into settling into a new home, community, and teaching position. My days were filled to the brim and weekends were just as busy. Church seemed to be always put on the back burner. Having been raised in the church, it was always my expectation to return and fill that spiritual part of my life that I was missing.

After retiring from my teaching profession, I began attending the Athol Congregational Church. Finding comfort in the people, peace in the message and spiritual well-being, I continued making this church a priority. After becoming an official member, I felt blessed by the support I received during very difficult sad times and joyous ones. I’ve been welcomed as an active participant in many roles that fulfill our mission as Christians, especially me. As a result, an empty space in the puzzle of my life has been filled.

Anne's Story

I am so happy and blessed that I found the Athol Congregational Church. I grew up in a Presbyterian church and attended services with my Dad each Sunday as well as Sunday School.  When I married Mitch and we bought a home in Athol, I began to look for a welcoming, helpful, and kind church.  The first day I entered and stayed for a service, I knew that I had found a beautiful, caring church with a truly meaningful service.  The sermons about real life and the opportunities to ask for prayers that matter to each of us have impacted me profoundly.  The beautiful music from the choir, from the pianist and organist, from the bell choir, and the congregation add so much to the service.    I also love the way this church and its leaders reach out to support not only their congregation, but also the community at large, and the world beyond. 

Reverend Candi and Reverend Cindy are extraordinary leaders—wise and compassionate—who show their love in all they say and do.  Finally, the congregation itself is so inclusive and welcoming, both during the services and afterwards, as they meet for refreshments in the fellowship hall.  They love to be with one another, whether it is working on a project for the church, having donuts with “the duo” at the local donut shop, attending one of many eclectic concerts held at the church, gathering together at the lake in New Hampshire, or celebrating Easter with a sunrise service at the Red Apple Farm.  From the first day many years ago all the way through this past Sunday, this special church and its amazing congregation has let me feel loved and I know that this is my home.

Marlene's Story

I feel I was “led” to the Athol Congregational Church. One Sunday in 1999, I was on my way to “my” church at the time and I had this nudge to keep going. I went to a dear friend’s house and asked if I could take her to church. Her church is now my church all these years later because of the comfort and belonging I felt all those years ago. I still feel that warmth, that caring and the kindness from my church family.

I have gone through a hardship and I was given so much support to get me through. As a church family, they all prayed for me and with me. I also believe in the work we do “out in the community and beyond” with outreach programs such as community meals, veterans outreach and so much more.

Pat's Story

When our previous church closed, we visited several other churches who all seemed to be struggling.  Many people had suggested the Athol Congregational Church and said, "You will like it."  When we entered the first time, there was an 18-voice choir on the left and handbells on tables on the right.  I knew that this was the place for us as I had founded and directed a Handbell Choir for 40 years and my husband and daughter greatly enjoy singing in the choir. This church also has two pastors which is unbelievable!

The pastors and others are very open to new ideas, so I suggested a Concert Series of six per year where I would find excellent performers for a concert which would be followed by a dinner. These concerts are very successful and many from the community attend as well. We now hold four in the spring and two in the fall, with an average attendance of 100 people each time.

Everyone works so well together at our church and they all care for each other. My husband, myself, and our daughter are very pleased to be members here. Each service is inspirational and uplifting and the sermons give you much to think about and speak right to you.

The Athol Congregational church truly follows their motto: "Small enough to know you and large enough to serve."

Sharon's Story

As a baby (some 78 years or so ago) I was baptized here by Rev. Leonard Fowler.  The early years brought many memories of Sunday School, the primary choir – and then junior choir under the stern direction of Ruby Noyes. Our youth group was called Chi Rho and there was always something going on to keep our interest…even Friday night dances in Fellowship Hall! Someone would bring a record player and we would all bring our 45’s for a good selection of music. It was open to all the kids in town – not just our church, and parents would provide snacks and took turns chaperoning. It was definitely the “go to” place on Friday nights!

When I was a sophomore in high school, they needed a Sunday School teacher for the second grade class – so I said ‘yes’. It was a wonderful experience and the beginning of my love of teaching the children about the Bible. I actually learned more as a teacher, than when I was a youngster in Sunday School class!

Harry and I were married in the Athol Congregational Church in 1966 (60 years this coming June!!) by Rev. Arthur Blowen.  As our children came along, they too were baptized and confirmed here. When they were old enough for Sunday School classes, there really wasn’t much happening here for the kids – so Marilyn Farnum and I decided that we would take on the task of building the program back up. She agreed to be the “superintendent” and I took on the role of Sunday School Coordinator. In our hey-day, we had over 120 active kids including strong junior and senior high youth groups! Marilyn stepped down after 7 years and I continued on for another 2 years – and I can’t even begin to tell you how rewarding it was to see this Church School program grow and become so successful.

Since then, I have also served as a Deaconess, on the Board of Christian Education, as Church Clerk and in recent years, in Women’s Fellowship. (not to mention working decades of Fairs, church suppers, the tag sales, etc.!)

So many folks have passed through our lives here over the years, many becoming very dear friends – and I feel very blessed to have had such a wonderful and caring “church family”.  The love and support is amazing.

In sharing all of this, it’s easy to see that this church has been an important part of my life for as long as I can remember. Throughout the years we have been so very fortunate to have many wonderful and caring pastors who have always been there for counseling, advice, answering spiritual questions and guidance – and even hugs! These same years have brought many changes, as well – (of course we must roll with the times!) – but our church remains steadfast as a prayerful place and a comfort to our souls.

I feel very blessed to have called the Athol Congregational Church “MY” church all of my life.  It has been a Peaceful space - my Rock, my Comfort and my Prayerful Place.