Conway Village
Congregational Church
May 2026
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“The Gathering Place”
Historically, when a town was settled in colonial New England, a church was placed at the center of the community, usually at the crossroads. It was normally surrounded by a green field known as the Town Common (following the concept of “commonwealth”) where anyone could bring livestock to graze on the field or be watered at the Town Well. It was a Gathering Place, where local news and gossip was shared, where music would be played, and where people would bring their lunch or dinner to be shared with others in the town.
It is this concept of shared identity that the Brown Church of Conway Village is using to rebuild and rejuvenate. “The Gathering Place” concept is to create a muti-use Community Center for weekly meetings of self-help groups (i.e., AA, Alateen, non-profits), community enrichment (‘Did You know?’ … education programming), meal security and community sharing (pantry, Dinner Bell, holiday meals), worship space with recording studio functions (community music + local pastoral development). “The Gathering Place” supports the health and well-being of the Mount Washington Valley by serving as a mission-driven community center as well as for worship and devotional enrichment, a continuation of 140 yrs, of community involvement (since our 1886 founding). To be successful, the campaign will rely on the generosity of its members and the community at large. The goal is to raise $325,000 dollars.
Range of Gifts Needed:
The three hundred and twenty-five thousand dollars (pledged over a 3-
year period), is to cover flooding damage to exterior walls, siding, doors, and ramps. The Gifts are for $225,000.00 for siding, $75,000.00 for Exit Ramps, and $25,000.00 for doors, for a total of $325,000.00.
We look forward to a successful campaign which honors the New England concept of “Commonwealth” where our community will continue to be a “Gathering Place” to strengthen and celebrate our neighbors whom we strive to support.
In advance of your generosity, we thank you
The Conway Village Congregational Church
(The Brown Church)
“The Gathering Place”
Pastor John Hughes May 2026
Easter is over and now comes the spring warm-up and one of my favorite times of the year, as the trees begin to leaf out and the grass turns green. All the different shades of green and the flowers that have popped up, sometimes even before all the snow has receded. It’s almost more beautiful than the colors of fall. The spring, however, is a time of new growth, whereas the fall is more about going dormant.
Along with spring comes the clean-up of the winter ravages. Raking, sweeping, cleaning windows, opening things up from storage. Well, the church is no different than anybody’s house. We have a fair portion of work that needs to occur before the siding project gets underway in July. Things need to be moved away from the building, the roof over the old food pantry entrance needs to be torn down and hauled away. We are going to do this in house to save money. We can use all the help that we can get. Even if you can only wield a rake or pick up small things, all help will be appreciated. Things inside the church need to be gone through and moved and shelves put up and things properly stored. Church windows can be cleaned, grass raked, the few garden areas weeded and cleaned up. Many things can be done slowly at any time. Others like the roof will be a planned day.
The Trustees and Council will be planning out what needs to be done and we will try to make a list and a timeline of when things need to be completed by. So, if you have some nephews and nieces or other younger friends that would be willing to help with certain projects once they are identified, we would greatly appreciate the help. We will try to have the list by the beginning of May. April forecast looks very wet the rest of the month.
Thank you goes out to Rev. Hughes, and the Deaconate and everyone who participated in all the Lenten services. A lot time and planning went into everything and can be forgotten about or taken for granted.
Let there be JOY in all things that we do.
Carl F. Vitters, Moderator
Council Meeting Highlights – April 15, 2026
Financials
Following review of the cash flow report, a withdrawal from the investment account was approved to meet current expenses.
Worship & Music
A recent service using only live music was very well received. Council is considering offering this style of service once a month, providing a meaningful alternative format and giving the tech team a scheduled break.
Building & Facilities
Preparation is underway for the exterior siding project scheduled to begin later this summer. A list of necessary prep work will be developed, including identifying and removing unused exterior wiring.
A cover will be purchased for the piano to protect it, and progress continues on setting up new TV carts in the sanctuary.
Spring Marketplace – May 16
Planning continues for the Spring Marketplace. Vendor participation is growing, and efforts are underway to promote the event locally and gather donations for the gift basket raffle.
Highlights will include:
- Craft vendors and local goods
- Gift basket raffle
- Bake sale
- Book table and lunch offerings
Council members will also be visiting local businesses to invite participation and request donations.
Upcoming Community Events
Plans are underway to participate in July 4th festivities by selling food in front of the church during the parade as a way to connect with the community.
Website Planning
Council members have been asked to complete the website survey. All members are also invited to share their input, either by completing the survey online or by requesting a printed version.
Other Notes
The Fellowship Hall will be used by the Masons for a service on May 9.
Vacation schedules for staff and leadership were noted to ensure coverage.
Upcoming Meetings
- Trustees: May 6 at 3:30 PM
- Council: May 13 at 4:30 PM
Congregational Input Requested: Community Funding Opportunity
At our semi-annual meeting last July, we introduced and briefly discussed an opportunity for our church to receive funding made available to local nonprofits through a New Hampshire charitable gaming program. We recognize that this raised thoughtful questions and concerns for some within our congregation, and we want to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to be heard as we continue this conversation.
Since the flood, our church is now required to carry flood insurance, resulting in an additional annual expense of over $13,000. One possible approach would be to use any funds received through this program to offset that cost. If funding were to exceed that amount, we would welcome input from the congregation on how those additional funds might best be used.
To help guide our next steps, we are inviting all members and friends of the church to participate in a brief survey. Your input will help leadership better understand the range of perspectives, questions, and concerns, and will allow us to address them in advance of our upcoming semi-annual meeting in July.
Your voice matters as we move forward together. All responses will be anonymous.
Please take the Survey: Survey Link: https://forms.gle/pdP1z57PbTTvYMZd8
For those receiving this newsletter in print—or for anyone who prefers a paper copy—printed surveys will be available through the church office or on Sunday mornings following worship.
We are grateful for your thoughtful participation as we seek to move forward together with care, transparency, and unity.
Celebrating Brian’s New Book
An Evening with Brian Wiggin
June 9, 2026 ~ 6:30 PM at the Conway Public Library
Join local author Brian Wiggin as he discusses his new book, The Heritage I Was Handed, about growing up in Conway, NH. Brian is known for his storytelling, wit and humor, and this night is going to be full of laughs and tales of Conway’s past.
*Copies of his book may be available, but this is subject to change*
Working Together for Our Church Home
As we move into May, preparations are underway for the upcoming exterior siding project. Alongside this work, the Trustees and Church Council have been reviewing our spaces and identifying areas that would benefit from some thoughtful organization and care.
Since the flood and lower-level construction, many items have been temporarily relocated to the sanctuary. Seasonal decorations and event supplies now need to be sorted, packed into storage bins, and clearly labeled—both to protect them during upcoming work and to ensure they are easy to find and use moving forward.
Ways You Can Help:
- Sort and organize seasonal decorations
- Pack and label storage bins
- Help prepare spaces for upcoming work
We would greatly appreciate any helping hands. Whether you can join for an hour, a morning, or an afternoon, your time will make a meaningful difference.
Many hands truly do make light work.
If you are available, please reach out to a Trustee or Deacon, and watch for upcoming sign-up sheets.
May Worship Schedule
Sunday, May 3rd – Communion
Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16
Acts 7:55-60
John 14:1-14
1 Peter 2:2-10
Sermon: “I am the Way, the Truth, the Life”
Sunday, May 10th ~ Mother’s Day
Psalm 66:8-20
Acts 17:22-31
1 Peter 3:13-22
John 14:15-21
Sermon: “For you know the Spirit of Truth”
Sunday, May 17th ~ Ascension Sunday
Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35
Acts 1:6-14
1 Peter 4:12-14, 5:6-11
John 17:1-11
Worship Leader: Curt Reynolds
Sunday, May 24th
Psalm 104:24-34, 35b
Acts 2:1-21
1 Corinthians 12:3b-13
John 7:37-39
Worship Leader: Carl Vitters
Sunday, May 31st
Psalm 8
Genesis 1:1-2, 4a
Matthew 28:16-20
2 Corinthians 13:11-13
Sermon: “With you until the End”
The Deacon’s Corner
“And I said: Listen, you heads of Jacob and rulers of the house of Israel!
Should you not know justice?
“ Micah 3:1 (NRSV)
In my hood imagination, I can hear the prophet declare with righteousness anger:
“I said what I said.
Justice is not an option — it’s a requirement. A sacred law. An edict from God.”
In my holy imagination, God is urgently saying to us in these ugly times enacted by intentionally evil leaders and allowed by complacent people of privilege:
“I said what I said.
Love God. Love your neighbor. Love yourself.”
Name what you know is evil. Feel the collective pain of your neighbors. All neighbors. All creation.
Do something. Put your faith into action. Use your privilege and position.
No excuses.
Get to the frontline and protect the vulnerable. Fund the movement. Set up a bail fund.
Call and hold your elected officials accountable.
Accompany those directly impacted.
Pray and invoke joyful rebellion.
Beloved, I said what I said.
Your Deacons: Charles ‘Boz” Boswell, Beth Campbell, Jill Reynolds, Judy Workman
April Trustees Meeting Highlights
The Trustees met April 7th to review building progress, upcoming events, and ongoing needs within the church.
Financial & Administrative Updates
- New bank account setup is underway with Norway Savings Bank.
- Office coverage has been arranged during Melody’s April vacation.
- Need to resolve issues with the church phone system auto-attendant and transfers
Building & Capital Projects
- Current building funds total approximately $257,000, with an estimated $63,000 still needed to complete quoted, planned projects.
- A $325,000 Capital Campaign will launch May 1 to support siding, windows, exterior doors, and an ADA-compliant rear entrance ramp.
- The siding project is tentatively scheduled for mid-July or August.
- Additional building needs under review include ice dam damage repairs, flooring improvements, and accessibility upgrades.
FEMA & Facilities
- An extension will be requested to move the FEMA project deadline to August 2027.
- Plans are in motion to install remote-access thermostats and evaluate improvements to building access and safety features.
Community Outreach & Programs
The Food Pantry is in urgent need of volunteers, and we are expanding outreach beyond our church community through local media, social platforms, and church communications.
Spring Marketplace – May 16
- Vendor participation is growing, and event promotion is underway.
- Trustees are seeking raffle donations, baked goods, and volunteers to support this important fundraiser.
- Lunch will be available for purchase during the event.
Looking Ahead
- Planning has begun for a potential July 4th small outreach event during the parade.
A special reprint of the historic 1950 church cookbook is also in development for sale
Spring Marketplace – Help Make It a Success!
Our Spring Marketplace is just around the corner, and we’re excited to once again host this important annual fundraiser for our church. This year, instead of a traditional yard sale, we’re focusing on vendor tables and booth rentals—inviting crafters, artisans, home-based businesses, and even individuals who would like to host a “mini yard sale” table with household items to showcase and sell. If you know anyone who might be interested, please encourage them to join us!
While our printed materials list a May 1 vendor deadline, we want to note that we will continue accepting vendor registrations up until the day before the event, as long as space is available. So please don’t hesitate to spread the word—even after May 1!
We also need your help to make the event a success. Volunteers are essential for setup, coordination, and day-of support—sign-up sheets are available on Sundays before and after worship, as well as in the church office during office hours.
Raffle baskets and bake sale donations are a major part of what makes this fundraiser successful. These two areas consistently draw strong participation from the community and generate a significant portion of our proceeds. We’re asking individuals, families, or groups to consider putting together a themed gift basket for the raffle, and to donate baked goods for the sale. To help us avoid duplicate basket themes and to plan appropriately for the bake sale, please be sure to sign up on the lists available on Sundays or in the church office. Whether it’s a simple batch of cookies or a fully themed basket, every contribution makes a meaningful difference.
You can also support the Marketplace by helping us spread the word. Share the event on Facebook, post or drop off flyers at places you visit, and talk it up with friends, neighbors, and even in everyday conversations—waiting rooms, salons, and wherever you have the opportunity.
As many of you know, we have been relying on periodic withdrawals from our endowment/investment account to cover ongoing operational expenses. Fundraisers like the Spring Marketplace play a vital role in helping us move toward a more sustainable path. Thank you for your continued support, energy, and enthusiasm—we truly couldn’t do this without you!
This Memorial Day, we pause as a community to remember and honor those who gave their lives in service to our country. Their stories span generations and conflicts—from the beaches of Normandy and the forests of the Battle of the Bulge to the waters of the Pacific and the skies over Vietnam—but all are united by a common thread of courage, sacrifice, and love. We remember not only how they served, but who they were: family members, friends, and neighbors whose lives continue to shape our community through those who carry their memory forward.
We honor the life and service of Lieutenant Commander Robert S. Graustein, USN—a son of Fryeburg, devoted husband to Duddie Andrews, and loving father. Bob and Duddie were married in our church on June 10, 1961. A graduate of Fryeburg Academy and the U.S. Naval Academy, Bob served his country as a highly skilled naval aviator, instructor, and test pilot. Known for his intelligence, athletic ability, and warm, engaging personality, he exemplified leadership, courage, and dedication throughout his life and military career.
LCDR Graustein was serving as Operations Officer of Attack Squadron 75 aboard the USS Saratoga during the Vietnam War when his aircraft was lost on December 21, 1972, during a combat mission over North Vietnam. He was just 33 years old. For his extraordinary bravery and service, he was awarded numerous honors, including the Silver Star and multiple Distinguished Flying Crosses. His life stands as a lasting testament to courage, sacrifice, and deep love for both country and family, a legacy that continues through those who knew and loved him.
We honor the life and sacrifice of Sergeant Philip Justis, a native of Somerville, Massachusetts, and a cousin of Nancy Irving for whom her brother Phil is named. The only child of Albert “Reggie” and Mabel Justis, he served with the 359th Infantry Regiment of the 90th Infantry Division and fought with courage during the Normandy campaign, a pivotal moment in the Allied liberation of Western Europe, where he was mortally wounded in action. Sergeant Justis is laid to rest at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in France and is also remembered on his family’s headstone in Needham, Massachusetts. His story reflects the bravery and devotion of a generation whose service and sacrifice helped secure the freedoms we cherish today.
We honor the life and sacrifice of Private Everett Mark Wiggin, a resident of Conway, New Hampshire, and the uncle of Brian Wiggin. Serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment of the 30th Infantry Division—one of the most highly regarded U.S. divisions in the European Theater—he fought with courage during the Battle of the Bulge, where he was killed in action on January 15, 1945, at the age of 34. For his sacrifice, he was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart, and in 2007 his family received additional long-overdue medals in his honor. Private Wiggin is laid to rest at the Henri-Chapelle American Cemetery in Belgium and is also remembered with a memorial marker in the Wiggin family plot at Deering Cemetery in Conway. His memory remains rooted both here at home and abroad, a quiet but enduring reminder of the cost of freedom and the strength of those who served.
We honor the life of Machinist’s Mate 3rd Class George Hazen LaVerne, U.S. Navy, of Alton, Illinois, who gave his life in service to his country at just 21 years old. Killed in action on April 16, 1945, during the Battle of Okinawa, he was aboard the USS Laffey (DD-724) when the ship endured one of the most intense kamikaze attacks of World War II. For his courage and sacrifice, he was awarded the Bronze Star. George was Sandy Stowell’s only uncle, and we remember him with gratitude, mindful of the sacrifice he made and the life he gave in service to others.
As we remember these lives, we are reminded that their sacrifice is not just part of history — it is a living legacy entrusted to us. Each Memorial Day, local American Legion posts hold brief services at cemeteries throughout the area, as well as at the honor roll in Conway Village, offering moments of reflection and remembrance. In Fryeburg, a community parade culminates in a ceremony at Bradley Park, where residents gather to honor those who gave their lives in service. We encourage all who are able to attend these tributes—to pause, to remember, and to honor their sacrifice. Amid the gatherings and traditions of the day, may we also take time in our own way to remember—whether by attending a service, visiting a cemetery, or simply pausing in quiet reflection. May we carry that remembrance forward in how we live—with gratitude, compassion, and a renewed commitment to serve one another.
Armed Forces Day ~ Honoring Those Currently Serving
On Armed Forces Day, we pause to give thanks for the men and women who are currently serving in our nation’s military. Their service reflects courage, discipline, and a selfless commitment to others. In these challenging and uncertain times, we pray for their strength, their safety, and their well-being, asking God’s blessing upon them as they carry out their responsibilities with honor and dedication. May they be guided by wisdom, sustained in their faith, and supported in all they are called to do. We also hold their families in our prayers, giving thanks for the sacrifices they share.
