FAQs
About North Church of Portsmouth
What kind of church is North Church of Portsmouth?
North Church is part of the United Church of Christ, a progressive, inclusive and Christ-centered Protestant denomination. At North Church, we find our roots in the congregational tradition, a practice of church in which all have a voice and the spirit of God is heard through our collective community.
When were you founded?
We were founded in 1671 here in Portsmouth, NH.
Where are you located?
2 Congress Street in Portsmouth, NH.
Are you accessible?
Our building is accessible through a newly renovated handicap entrance on the left side of the building, and we have accessible bathroom facilities as well. We make use of hearing aids for those who are hearing impaired. We are creating an accessibility committee that will help us to increase accessibility for those with visual, sensory or developmental disabilities as well.
How do you give back to the community?
We give back to the community through our various service projects and mission partners. We share our space with multiple non-profits and we offer resources to people who are struggling to make ends meet with grocery and gas cards as needed. Each month there is a different mission partner from the community that we work with, and we are constantly working on collections for local causes, such as: hunger relief, supporting children in school, accessing hygiene and health care, and international causes with our sister church, Marondera Church, in Zimbabwe.
Worship
What kind of worship services do you offer?
Our 10 a.m. worship service is both a traditional and eclectic service.
How long is worship?
Over the course of our one-hour worship gathering, we will sing familiar hymns on the organ, take part in a new hands-on spiritual practice, share our stories out loud, hear a contemporary anthem, and spend time in silence. We practice communion once a month, the ancient practice of sharing bread and cup, with an extravagant welcome to the table.
Do you offer in-person and virtual worship?
You can join us virtually or in-person. During the summer months (late June-early September) we move our worship to 9 a.m.
What should I wear?
In terms of attire, wear whatever you please. God only cares what your heart looks like. You’ll see people in jeans and sneakers, suits and dresses, and everything in between. When we say come as you are, we mean it.
What do kids do during worship?
Kids are invited to sit in the pew with their families during worship, join in on Sunday School during the sermon time, and then return during Prayers for the People.
Education & Events
Do you offer Sunday School?
We do! Every Sunday except communion (the first Sunday of the month) we host a Sunday School lesson that matches the scripture passage being discussed in worship. Kids from 2-12 are invited to our Sunday School class for discussion, games, and crafts! All of our teachers are background checked and have been trained in our church safety procedures.
Is there a Youth Group?
Yes! We have both a local at-church youth group and a regional youth group we participate in. We meet on Sunday afternoons either at North Church or at the Stratham Community Church. Join us!
Are there fellowship groups for adults?
There are lots of opportunities for adults to get involved. We have weekly bible study, monthly Theology on Tap, men’s and women’s breakfast, a knitting/crafting group, a summer service group, and more. Check out our Events page for more info!
Is there a music program?
Yes! Whether you can ring a handbell, carry a tune in a bucket, or you’re a trained singer/musician, there’s a place for you in our music program. We’re always looking for people to lend their gifts to our worship services, whether in the choir, in a chamber ensemble, or as a solo. Reach out to our music director to get connected!
Where can I find information about upcoming events?
Check out our Events page, sign up for our weekly newsletter, or stay up to date with our quarterly newsletter, The Bellman. Additionally, we keep our Facebook page updated with all the goings-on at North Church.
Can I rent a space at your facility?
Almost certainly. Reach out to our administrator via our Contact Form.