We all evolve, it’s what makes us human. So why should a church be any different? Never underestimate the power of a group of women! First Church of Christ, Congregational has been a part of the town wide Christmas in Suffield Holiday Fair for many years. The Women’s Fellowship started by getting together and by using their time and talents created items to be sold. They put together light lunches for shoppers and even made their families envious of baked goods being made and removed from the home before a nibble could be had, and selling them at the fair. The women even put a few items out that were gently used and fashioned a White Elephant sale.
Moving forward, the First Church Women’s Fellowship evolved the Holiday Fair into a bigger and better event. Eleven years ago, the group invited outside crafters into the church to offer a varied array of creative talent. They also expanded their White Elephant sales to an Attic Treasures space with more choices for gently used, previously loved riches. To expand their variety of soups and sandwiches, First Church evolved once again and began with a High Tea on High Street. The story doesn’t end there.
Today, First Church continues to offer a variety of options at the annual Christmas in Suffield Holiday Fair. One of the more popular events is the continued High Tea on High Street. A wide variety of teas are served with elegant finger sandwiches, scones, and cookies among other delicacies. The tea is served by wait staff in a beautifully decorated parlor room. The attic treasures are a big hit as many find bargains from others’ donations. The bake sale is still envied by family members who don’t get to nibble at home but are encouraged to donate and buy a tasty treat at the fair. Items featured at the bake sale are pies, breads, cookies, cakes, homemade soup mixes and more! Crafters and artists offer a variety of paintings, handmade creations including jewelry, photography, hand knit wares and sewn accessories, just to name a few. Not to be outdone by the Women’s Fellowship group, the Men’s Group has a country kitchen. The men sell bacon, kielbasa, potatoes, squash, cider, apples, and more. Tantalizing aromas waft through the building as the men offer cooked samples.
The evolution continues at First Church. This year refreshments will be offered throughout the day for purchase. There will be a shopping area for kids where children will be able to buy items at extremely low bargain prices and have their gifts wrapped! Ambiance is at every turn as holiday music and decorations will be included in your holiday fair experience. Also, this year, much of the proceeds from the fair will go towards mission and outreach projects. One special mission this year is Rise Against Hunger, an international hunger relief organization that distributes food and life changing aid.
First Church is proud to offer a unique shopping Holiday Fair experience. For more information about this and other events at First Church please call our church office at 860-668-7223, or visit our website at firstchurchsuffield.org. We are also on Facebook!