Visitor Information

Celebrate Easter and Holy Week at First Church of Fairfield

First Church of Fairfield is an open and affirming church with a vision of a just world for all. All our services, from worship to youth and community engagement is based on the core tenets of welcome, love, and justice for all.

Church Office – Monday to Friday 9am – 1pm

Senior Pastor – Rev. Vanessa Rose

Liturgist – Rev. Kathy Williamson

Preacher in Residence – Rev. Jake Miles Joseph

The church was founded in 1639, just a few years after the initial settlement of Fairfield by English colonists. As one of the oldest congregations in Connecticut, it played a significant role in the establishment of the community. Today, the First Church Congregational continues to serve as a vibrant religious community in Fairfield, providing worship services, music programs, religious education, and outreach programs to its members and the wider community.

The church is always open to visitors and anyone seeking sanctuary, spiritual, emotional or otherwise.

Take a Tour!

History

The First Church Congregational of Fairfield, Connecticut, has a rich history dating back to the early colonial period of the United States. Here’s a brief overview:

1. Founding: The church was founded in 1639, just a few years after the initial settlement of Fairfield by English colonists. As one of the oldest congregations in Connecticut, it played a significant role in the establishment of the community.
2. Colonial Period: During the colonial period, the church served as a focal point for religious, social, and political activities in Fairfield. It was a Puritan congregation, following the Congregationalist tradition prevalent among the early settlers of New England.
3. Revolutionary War: Like many churches of its time, the First Church Congregational was deeply involved in the events leading up to and during the American Revolutionary War. Its members participated in debates about independence and often used the pulpit to advocate for liberty and self-governance.
4. Expansion and Growth: Over the centuries, the church experienced periods of growth and expansion, reflecting the changing demographics and religious landscape of Fairfield and the surrounding region. As the community grew, so did the church, both in terms of membership and physical infrastructure.
5. Denominational Affiliation: While initially a Congregationalist church, it might have undergone changes in denominational affiliation over time, reflecting broader trends within American Protestantism.
6. Community Involvement: Throughout its history, the First Church Congregational has been actively involved in community service, outreach, and charitable activities. It has played a role not only in spiritual matters but also in addressing social issues and supporting those in need within Fairfield and beyond.
7. Modern Era: Today, the First Church Congregational continues to serve as a vibrant religious community in Fairfield, providing worship services, religious education, and outreach programs to its members and the wider community.

Overall, the history of the First Church Congregational in Fairfield, CT, is intertwined with the broader narrative of American colonial and religious history, reflecting the enduring influence of faith communities in shaping the nation’s identity and values.