THE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF MANSFIELD
An Open & Affirming United Church Of Christ Congregation
At The Congregational Church of Mansfield, we know that inspiration opens hearts. An open heart is an open mind and an open mind is one that can practice tolerance, experience gratitude and feel the glory of God. It is our belief that God is present in all of us, but His active presence can only be felt through faith in Him. We are dedicated to the service of God and all his people, and our goal is to inspire you through the holiness of our dwelling and our services. We invite you to become a part of our growing Congregation.
We invite you to view a new Welcome video from our Interim Pastor, Rev. Dr. Ruth E. Shaver. Click the link below.
No matter who you are or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here among friends!
The Congregational Church and her copper steeple have been a landmark in the center of Mansfield for over 180 years with roots as long-standing as the community itself. We'd like to think that we've seasoned enough over the years to reveal a practical wisdom, an enthusiastic inclusiveness, and a joyful desire to serve God at the heart of the community. Situated at the crossroads of Mansfield you might think of us like the leaven in the loaf that Jesus mentioned. The yeast enhanced the dough lending it depth, flavor and texture. We strive to be that leaven, utilizing our many gifts for: the up-building of community, the fostering of understanding, and the bearing of light to lives darkened by a host of circumstances. We are conduits of God's love overflowing to the community and world.
Whether it's wrestling with theological controversy that gave rise to our origin, gathering together those who shared abolitionist sentiment during the mid-19th century, serving as a hospital setting for the care of souls during the 1918 influenza outbreak, forming a Community Food Pantry in the late 1990's, sending a construction team to New Orleans to aid hurricane recovery in 2008, helping rebuild in southern Vermont after floods caused by Hurricane Irene, or becoming an "Open & Affirming Church" in 2012 (which welcomes the LGBT community as a sign of God's love and acceptance), we simply provide a warm, engaging, progressive Christian witness. As we proceed through the early 21st century, God continues to touch our lives calling us to responsive, caring mission. These are but a few of the historic pieces that provide substance for our church life and which shape our identity and character.
Our 270 members and friends are thankful for the journey that has brought you here as, even now, God prepares to write the next chapter of the mission and ministry entrusted to us. Together we strive to "live the faith that Jesus fully embodied" as his hands and heart at work in the world today.
God is Still Speaking every moment...to us...and through us! Welcome to this wonderful adventure in faith.
The Congregational Church of Mansfield is one of the leading congregations in the Mansfield area. We are a vibrant congregation dedicated to serving the spiritual, educational, and cultural needs of the surrounding community. Our Church is deeply rooted in holy words, and our doors are always open to community members who are looking for a quiet place to worship. Contact us, or visit us to learn more about how to become a part of our congregation.
PASTOR MARISSA RAPOZA
Settled Pastor
Rev. Marissa Rapoza was called to the position of Settled Pastor on Jul 16, 2023. Pastor Marissa has been serving in ministry as a pastor since 2016. Growing up in the church presented many opportunities for her to serve in various ways from children’s ministry to choir and worship leading. In September 2016, Pastor Marissa became the Youth Pastor for Riverside Covenant Church where she served in that role until 2020 at which time she became the Associate Pastor. Pastor Marissa has served as pulpit supply and filled pastoral care needs for colleagues while they are on vacation or sabbatical. She has had many opportunities to serve as pulpit supply and fill pastoral needs for churches during interim periods and transition.
Pastor Marissa graduated in December 2021 with a Master of Divinity degree from Sioux Falls Theological Seminary. She was fully licensed as a pastor by the Covenant Church and received ordination through the Progressive Christian Alliance. Pastor Marissa is currently working towards ordination with the United Church of Christ where she is licensed for full ministry at the Congregational Church of Mansfield.
Over the past eight years, Pastor Marissa has written curriculum for Children’s Sunday School, Youth Sunday School and Youth Group, Confirmation, and Membership Class at Riverside Covenant Church. Participating in the spiritual growth and development of church members and attenders is her passion along with journey with people through the various aspects of spiritual life.
Pastor Marissa has been married to her husband Ken since 2004. Together they have two children, Braden (12) and Lauren (10) and a crazy cat named Magik. They enjoy family time together, hiking, going for walks, playing games, and watching favorite tv shows and movies.
WORSHIP SCHEDULE
Our regular worship schedule is:
Sunday Worship: 10:00 AM in the Sanctuary followed by Coffee Hour at 11:00 AM in the Vestry
'Summer Breeze' Sunday Worship: 9:30 AM in the Vestry (late June through early September)
Easter Sunday
Sunrise Service: 6:00 AM on the South Common followed by Easter Breakfast in the Vestry
Easter Sunday Celebration: 10:00 AM in the Sanctuary
Christmas
Christmas Eve Service: 4:30 PM in the Sanctuary (A Family Friendly Candlelight Service)
GIVE
The Joy of Generosity
“It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). Every gift makes an incredible difference to our incredible church, the people of Mansfield and our work in the world. Give a single gift online or set up recurring donations. We are so grateful for your commitment and generosity.
Click the Support Us button to make a one time donation. To join our e-giving program for recurring donations, click the e-giving button.
BY LAWS
To be and become the hands and heart of Jesus Christ - reaching out with compassion and love. To that end we are organized as a Discipleship Church with its Members, Core Ministries and Discipleship Groups dedicated to serving God.
We invite you to read our bylaws by clicking on the By Laws link below.
We would love to hear from you! Contact The Congregational Church of Mansfield today.
17 West St, Mansfield, MA 02048, USA
(508) 339-4793