Gilford Community Church - News Releases

Donations Needed for Gilford Community Church Fair & Silent Auction!

8/13/2026

The Gilford Community Church Old Home Day Summer Fair & Silent Auction is coming up Friday, Aug. 28 from 4 to 6:30 pm and Saturday, Aug. 29 from 8 am to 1 pm inside and outdoors on Potter Hill Road in Gilford village.

Donations are now being accepted for the white elephant sale, silent auction and jewelry nook. If you are cleaning out a summer cottage, downsizing or simply have some white elephant items in good, clean condition, you can drop them off in the lobby of the Gilford Community Church on Potter Hill Rd. in Gilford village.

The Silent Auction committee welcomes business gift certificates for restaurants, lodging and many other categories, including ski passes, condo stays, concert and sporting event tickets, and gift baskets to name but a few things you can donate. Contact Sue Allen if you wish to donate at (603) 520-6859.

Bake Sale Items can be dropped off Friday August 28 2-4pm.

The Gilford Community Church Fair & Silent Auction on Friday, Aug. 28 from 4 to 6:30 pm and Saturday, Aug. 29 from 8 am to 1 pm inside and outdoors on Potter Hill Road in Gilford village.

For further information, call the church office at 603-524-6057

Celebrating 15 Years of the ONE Community Project

6/30/2026

Each summer, the Gilford Community Church (GCC) selects a community service project to focus on through their One Community Project (OCP). This year, the committee decided to take on two projects. One at the Fowler’s Residence in Laconia, and the second at the Gilford Ice Skating Rink/Pickleball Courts. During these projects, twenty-eight adults and four children ranging from ages 7-94 years old, volunteered their time and energy, scraping, painting, landscaping, window cleaning, mulching, and much more!

“Making a difference through a community project can foster real change, build stronger bonds, and create lasting impact. OCP is about making a difference in the community. Each year this event is such a rewarding experience. I am so grateful to be a part of it,” said Amber McLane, Director of GCC’s Children and Youth Program.

Donna Snow has been participating in the OCP for the past 15 years (2011-2026). “My daughter, Mary, started this project in 2011 as a Girl Scout Gold Award Project,” said Snow. “Her advisor was Gilford Youth Center Director, Scott Hodsdon. The first couple of years, the project was called Christ Quest until changing the name to the One Community Project. I can’t believe that 15 years later we are still making a difference in our community. I have been proud to volunteer my time helping with landscaping and painting projects for members of our local community. Contributing to these efforts has allowed me to help improve neighborhood spaces, support the community members in need and foster a stronger sense of pride and connection with the community. It has been a rewarding experience to work alongside others to make a positive and lasting impact,” she added.

McLane asked the youngest volunteers why they thought volunteering was important and they said, Henry Walkley (Age 7) “Because I love helping others who are older or can’t do their home repairs themselves. It makes me feel good inside to help.” Douglas Walkley (Age 7) “So people can have nice gardens and helping people is the right thing to do.”

In conclusion, The Gilford Community Church and Gilford Youth Center finds true value in community service and outreach opportunities. The OCP is just another way to show we care about our community while teaching valuable lessons for youth and adults such as responsibility, compassion, and teamwork. Community service not only benefits those receiving help but also enriches the lives of those who give, making it a valuable experience for everyone involved.

Located in Gilford at 19 Potter Hill Road, the Gilford Community Church (GCC) is an inclusive, open community that welcomes believers and doubters, seekers and skeptics, young and old. Viewable live on Facebook and available on YouTube, Sunday service at GCC takes place at 10 a.m. To learn more, or virtually attend service, visit www.gilfordcommunitychurch.org.

Gilford Community Church Distributes Outreach Funds Locally

6/11/2026

In their continuing effort to give back to the community, the Gilford Community Church distributed a total of $13,700.00 in Outreach funds for the second quarter and the impact of one donation was felt immediately by students at Belmont High School.

“As we approach the end of another remarkable academic year, I am writing to share a profound act of generosity that has deeply impacted our graduating class. Recently, our school district received a transformative monetary donation specifically designated to clear the outstanding school debts of our graduating seniors. In some cases, these accrued fees, if left unpaid, may have unfortunately precluded some students from participating in our upcoming Senior Week activities,” said Belmont High School Principal, Matthew Finch.

“I am incredibly touched to report that these funds have already come in handy. For some families navigating difficult financial times, this unexpected gift has provided immediate relief. Without this intervention, some of our students would have faced an impossible financial burden, potentially missing out on the milestone celebrations and the recognition they have so rightfully earned through years of hard work, dedication, and academic perseverance here at BHS,” Finch said.

“High school graduation is a monumental rite of passage. Because of this immense kindness, our senior class can stand together, unburdened by financial stress, to celebrate their achievements. This gift is a powerful reminder of the strength of our community and the deep care that surrounds our students,” he added.

Donations were also made to Got Literacy Laconia to purchase new books, the Belmont, Gilford and Laconia Got Lunch programs to help kick off their summer program providing breakfast and lunch to local children, Church of Another Chance towards their YouTube channel setup and the Laconia Congregational Church for their “Love Our Earth” Day event with a focus on protecting our precious environment.

Located in Gilford at 19 Potter Hill Road, the Gilford Community Church (GCC) is an inclusive, open community that welcomes believers and doubters, seekers and skeptics, young and old. Viewable live on Facebook and available on YouTube, Sunday service at GCC takes place at 10 a.m. To learn more, or virtually attend service, visit www.gilfordcommunitychurch.org.

2026 “One Community Project” Seeks Local Volunteers

5/13/2026

A joint collaboration between Gilford Community Church (GCC) and Gilford Youth Center (GYC) that began in 2011, One Community Project (OCP) is currently accepting volunteers for its next community project, June 20-22, 2026.

Open to adults and youth, the OCP projects will take place at 306 Darby Drive, Laconia, on Saturday, June 20th from 9:00-1:00 pm. Sunday and Monday, June 21st -22nd from 9:00-1:00 pm at 40 Varney Point Road, Gilford (Ice Skating Rink/Pickleball Courts). (Rain Date: June 23rd, Tuesday) The types of work will include painting, scraping, landscaping, window cleaning, mulching, and more.

“Making a difference through a community project can foster real change, build stronger bonds, and create lasting impact. OCP is about making a difference in the community. Each year this event is such a rewarding experience. I am so grateful to be a part of it." said Amber McLane, director of GCC’s Children and Youth Program.

To register as a participant or sponsor, please contact Amber McLane at [email protected] or sign up on the website; www.gilfordcommunitychurch.org/onecommunityproject.

Located in Gilford at 19 Potter Hill Road, the Gilford Community Church (GCC) is an inclusive, open community that welcomes believers and doubters, seekers and skeptics, young and old. Viewable live on Facebook and available on YouTube, Sunday service at GCC takes place at 10 a.m. To learn more, or virtually attend service, visit gilfordcommunitychurch.org.

Gilford Community Church Invites You to Gals’ Night Out

4/30/2026

On Friday, May 22, 2026, at 6:00 pm, the Gilford Community Church (GCC) will host their next Gals’ Night Out event with a presentation of stunning pictures by local photographer, John Gill.

John Gill is a professional photographer dedicated to interpreting the artistry inherent in the natural world. His images are published regularly and have won numerous awards in professional venues. The New Hampshire Professional Photographers Association has honored John twice with the “Photographer of the Year” award as a result of his consistently compelling imagery.

A delicious BBQ dinner will be catered by Ellie Murphy, and any interested men are welcome to join this month as well.

Tickets are $20 and may be purchased through Sunday, May 17, 2026, at the GCC Administrative Office. For those with questions, please call (603) 524-6057.

Located in Gilford at 19 Potter Hill Rd, Gilford Community Church (GCC) is an inclusive, open community that welcomes believers and doubters, seekers and skeptics, young and old. Sunday service takes place at 10 am, is also available on a livestream feed on GCC’s Facebook page and later on YouTube.

GCC Serves as Year-Round Hub for Scouts Near and Far

3/25/2026

The Gilford Community Church (GCC) continues to establish itself as a welcoming, year-round hub for scouting groups from across the region. From weekly meetings to special events and overnight stays, GCC offers a versatile space that supports the growth, learning, and connection that scouting is all about.

Local Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops regularly gather at GCC for their weekly meetings, taking advantage of the church’s accessible location and community-focused environment. These consistent meetups provide scouts with a reliable place to build skills, foster friendships, and engage in meaningful activities.

Recently, a Cub Scout pack from Gilmanton brought energy and excitement to GCC as they hosted their Pinewood Derby at the facility. The event brought together scouts and families for a day of creativity, competition, and fun!

Beyond local use, GCC also attracts Boy Scouts from farther away. Some out-of-state troops travel to the area for weekend trips, staying overnight at the church while spending the day skiing at Gunstock Mountain Resort.

Through its continued support of scouting programs, GCC plays an important role in bringing together young people from different towns and backgrounds. Whether for a weekly meeting or a weekend getaway, the church remains a valued resource for scouts near and far.

Located in Gilford at 19 Potter Hill Road, the Gilford Community Church (GCC) is an inclusive, open community that welcomes believers and doubters, seekers and skeptics, young and old. Viewable live on Facebook and available on YouTube, Sunday service at GCC takes place at 10 a.m. To learn more, or virtually attend service, visit www.gilfordcommunitychurch.org.

(Photo attached: Gilmanton Cub Scout Pack #242 hosting their Pinewood Derby.)

Gilford Community Church to Host Next Gals’ Night Out

2/19/2026

On Friday, March 13, 2026, at 6:00 pm, the Gilford Community Church (GCC) will host Gals’ Night Out with a presentation from Sheryl Faye as she portrays Civil War Nurse and Red Cross Founder, Clara Barton.

Her story ties directly into Civil War studies, community service, and reinforces the importance of reading and getting a good education to achieve your personal goals and dreams. From the time she was old enough to be a nurse within her own family, Clara’s life was dedicated to helping others. She accepted no pay as she taught poor children whose parents had no money to send them to school. She raised warehouses full of food, medicine and clothing during the Civil War, and then courageously went to the front to nurse the wounded and dying. Finally, she started the American Red Cross which is her legacy today.

A delicious dinner will be catered by Ellie Murphy and any interested men are welcome to join this month as well.

Tickets for Gals’ Night Out are $20 and may be purchased through Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at the GCC Administrative Office. For those with questions, please call (603) 524-6057. Scholarships are available.

Located in Gilford at 19 Potter Hill Rd, Gilford Community Church (GCC) is an inclusive, open community that welcomes believers and doubters, seekers and skeptics, young and old. Sunday service takes place at 10 am, is also available on a livestream feed on GCC’s Facebook page and later on YouTube.

Gilford Community Church Recognizes Members at Annual Meeting

1/28/2026

At its recent Annual Meeting, the Gilford Community Church recognized a handful of members with their “Outstanding Volunteer Award.” The 2025 award recipients are Joyce Collins, Judy Cook, Lynne DeVivo, Penny Franciosi, Amber McLane, Bob Souter and Barb Stinson.

GCC also recognized three longtime members with a “Lifetime Achievement Award.” Those recipients are Susan Allen, Ginny Littlefield and Doris MacHaffie.

“We are so grateful for each of their contributions to the church, our membership is the church’s greatest asset,” said Pastor Michael Graham.

The GCC Youth acknowledged some members with their special “Angel Award.” Those award winners are Stu Boysen, Judy Cook, Ron Dudley, Nan Fay, Penny Franciosi, Janet Haley, Diane Lyons, Jim Marcum, Billy McLane, Kathy Meierjurgen, Jane Rollins, Eston Ross, Peter Sawyer and Rebecca Walkley.

“These individuals have demonstrated exceptional kindness, support, and service towards others and truly encompass what it means to be a messenger of God,” added Youth Director, Amber McLane.

Located in Gilford at 19 Potter Hill Rd, the Gilford Community Church (GCC) is an inclusive, open community that welcomes believers and doubters, seekers and skeptics, young and old. Viewable live on Facebook and later on YouTube, Sunday service takes place at 10 a.m. To learn more about GCC, or virtually attend service, visit gilfordcommunitychurch.org.

(Pictured left to right in photo 1, seated front row, "Lifetime Achievement" recipients: Susan Allen and Doris MacHaffie. Standing back row, "Outstanding Volunteer" recipients: Lynne DeVivo, Penny Franciosi, Judy Cook, Michael, Robert Souter, Joyce Collins, Barbara Stinson and Amber McLane. Pictured left to right in photo 2 are “Angel Award” recipients: Rebecca Walkley, Eston Ross, Penny Franciosi, Judy Cook, Billy McLane, Kathy Meierjurgen, Janet Haley, Nan Fay, Jane Rollins and Ron Dudley)

Gilford Community Church to Host Next Gals’ Night Out…In the Afternoon!

1/6/2026

The organizers of the Gilford Community Church (GCC) Gals’ Night Out are trying something new! Instead of the Friday night ritual, this month, we will host a luncheon on Saturday, January 24th, at 12 noon. Howie Chandler and Tom Meierjurgen will share their stained-glass practice with us. They will demonstrate and have volunteers participate in all the steps of creating a stained-glass piece.

A delicious lunch will be catered by Ellie Murphy, and any interested men are welcome to come along this month as well. So, join us for a wonderful meal and an exciting demonstration!

Tickets for Gals’ Night Out are $15 this month and may be purchased through Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at the GCC Administrative Office at 19 Potter Hill Rd. in Gilford. For those with questions, please call (603) 524-6057.

Located in Gilford at 19 Potter Hill Rd, Gilford Community Church (GCC) is an inclusive, open community that welcomes believers and doubters, seekers and skeptics, young and old. Sunday service takes place at 10 am, is also available on a livestream feed on GCC’s Facebook page and later on YouTube.

Church of Another Chance Forms Board of Directors

12/4/2025

In a world where many feel invisible, forgotten or defined by their past mistakes, the Church of Another Chance/New Hampshire, stands as a bold beacon of unconditional acceptance, comprehensive support, and transformative community. As one of only two churches in the United States dedicated exclusively to the incarcerated and the formerly incarcerated, CAC/NH brings the light of hope to individuals often left behind.

“It is a joy and honor to be Chair of the Board of Directors of the Church of Another Chance NH (CAC). Being a part of CAC has changed my life, not just the lives of others. We are a church dedicated to helping incarcerated and recently released individuals from county jail. We offer unconditional love, believing it comes from God,” said Rev. Paula Gile.

CAC/NH meets men and women behind bars and accompanies them into freedom, offering spiritual care, practical support, and a community that says: you are loved, you matter, and you have purpose.

“We encourage them to recognize their worth and that they’re not defined by their past actions. We tell them that God does not create junk - and that they are a beloved child of God. Once they internalize that they are loved and experience unconditional love from the members, real transformation happens. What a gift it is to be a part of this "Life-giving - Love-giving" church,” added Gile.

Every Tuesday evening, a mentoring cohort gathers to break bread, share their journey, engage in spiritual lessons, and receive peer and mentor support. Through these weekly gatherings, formerly incarcerated men and women find belonging, accountability, and a network of care they may never have experienced before. Local churches and community organizations share the load—providing meals, contributing space, and partnering in transformational work.

Incarceration affects individuals, families, victims, and entire communities. Without wrap-around support, many released individuals spiral into isolation, unemployment, relapse, or re-offending. CAC/NH offers a different pathway—one of dignity, purpose, and renewal. By healing the wounds of trauma and grief, helping restore self-worth, and equipping people with practical resources to succeed.

“After more than 3 years of developing our program here in New Hampshire I’m excited that we now have 5 talented, visionary and passionate board members to lead our organization into even more ways to positively impact the lives of our CAC members and community,” said Rev. Scott Jamieson, Executive Director and Founder.

Please help us in welcoming our new Board members: Rev. Scott Jamieson, Director; Rev. Paula Gile, President; Rev. Michael Graham, Rev. Peter Lovett, Patrick Wood, JD, and Robin Davis, JD.

CAC/NH was launched in January 2022 as the second church in the U.S. focused solely on incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals. It was born out of a model originally developed by the Nashville, Tennessee church. Church of Another Chance/New Hampshire (CAC/NH), PO Box 944, Meredith, NH 03253–0944, Phone: 603-937-5330, www.ChurchOfAnotherChanceNH.org Email: [email protected]