A Community of Abundant Welcome to All, Growing Together in Christ and serving with Love

Important Updates on Suspension Time and Interim/Transition process

Due to the recommendations in Massachusetts, we are extending the suspension time for one week through April 7, 2020. Given this change, the Church meeting scheduled on April 5th will be rescheduled. 

Please know that your FFC family is thinking of you in this unique time. We care about you, your families and the communities around us that are experiencing struggles with limiting interactions to help stop the spread of the virus. A conference call meeting was held on Sunday, 3/15/20 at 11 am to allow for discussion about the Church Suspension, the Interim Search and Transition process for Charley. Questions and answers are listed below along with updates. 

Church Suspension Time

1. How do we make sure everyone gets any urgent information? Including those that don’t have access to email?


We are planning to set up a call chain. 

  • Charley is working with Michele Webster to draft a plan of how to initiate and define the list of people to cascade the calls. 

  • Part of the call will also be to check on each other and make sure we are ok and whether there is anything needed. If prayer is needed, Charley will be contacted and we will ask if it should be added to the prayer chain email managed by Marilyn Sutcliffe. 

 2. How will we worship?

  • Charley did a 20 minute podcast sermon continuing the series of “7 Last Words” for 3/15. This will continue for 3/22 and 3/29 and 4/5. Podcast is located on facebook page and on website. 

  • Additionally, Charley tested a live stream prayer group from the sanctuary at 10 am last Sunday.  A number of people found it and interacted with him during the church service time. It is recorded and on Facebook.  This will continue and additional elements will be added.

3. How are we communicating that our building is closed and activities have stopped?

  • Renters have been called and told the building is closed through at least April 7, 2020.

  • Every outside door has signs on it. Main sign and sandwich board also provide information on how to find us online. 

4. How will the church keep functioning financially?

  • Annette has received the $5,000 contribution from the UCC and deposited it

  • With no people in the building, light and heat use are being adjusted

  • The recent email to people listed ways people could continue their giving:
    Please consider electronic pledging or mailing your pledge to the church during this time period so that operating costs can continue to be paid. Options:
    A) Send a check (paper or electronic from your account) made out to FFC to: FFC, 171 Main St, Franklin, MA 02038  Attn: Annette Thompson
    B) Set up Vanco electronic pledging:  Send a voided check to the address above and indicate how you want the funds taken out of your account. Options are monthly on the 1st or 15th OR contact Annette Thompson (774-210-2110) with the following information:Bank Routing Number, account number and how you want the funds taken out of your account. Options are monthly on the 1st or 15th  

5. How will it be decided if the April 7, 2020 date is changed?

The executive team will keep apprised of recent updates and recommendations for interpersonal interactions.  A decision will be made on 4/1 as to our next steps - if we will end suspension on April 7, 2020 or increase the length of time. A notification will go out to the church. 

Interim Minister Search Process

  • Our applications have been sent to UCC & ABC

  • We have received 1 response to review from the UCC so far

  • Team will meet to discuss interview questions and how to meet with candidates

Charley Transition Activities

  • Charley & Michele W are creating an information  binder of “All we need to know” 

  • We have asked the Deacons to plan worship for the 3-4 week window we will have once Charley leaves and we are waiting for the interim to start. 

  • Charley’s Exit Interview is scheduled for 4/16, UCC has recommended specific roles that should be included in the discussion and they have been asked to be at the meeting. If anyone has specific questions regarding the process, please contact Stephanie Potts at sbpotts64@gmail.com. 

Please take care of yourselves, your health and your families. Try one of the new ways to connect with your church family. Know that God is with us and will help us through.

Blessings,
The Executive Team: Pastor Charley, Stephanie Potts, Claire Chiboub, Scott Kwarta, Steve Hampton