Gilford Community Church

Gals and Guys Night Out at Gilford Community Church a Big Success

1/30/2023

Performance of Man on the Hill

Featuring a state-of-the-art sound system, Gilford Community Church (GCC) recently welcomed John Stanley Shelley, composer, producer, and star of Man on the Hill, an original rock opera that tells a story through narration and song.

“The performance was sold out, so it was thrilling to see a packed house enjoying themselves,” said GCC Pastor Michael Graham, who said the event also featured dinner catered by Ellie Murphy.

In addition to special events throughout the year, GCC hosts a popular Summer Music Series that welcomes musicians from across New Hampshire and beyond. “Our Sunday services in the summer feature short sermons and a lot of music,” added Graham. “We believe music can inspire the soul.”

Regarding their hosting of Man on the Hill, he said they felt both its story and music were “perfect” for the church. “John has created a heartwarming performance, so it fits in perfectly with what we try to offer in our space,” said Graham. “I hope we can offer similar events for future Gals and Guys Night Out community events.”

Located in Gilford, NH, Gilford Community Church (GCC) is an inclusive, open community with a broadly ecumenical spirit that welcomes people from all denominational and cultural backgrounds. Sunday service takes place at 10 a.m. at 19 Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, NH and is also available on a livestream feed on GCC’s Facebook page.

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Gilford Youth Center Welcomes Scott Hodsdon as Full-Time Director

1/24/2023

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Scott whitewater rafting with GCC youth group

Scott coaching one of the Lakes Region Elite Basketball teams that he created as part of the GYC, which offers basketball programs year round

Scott running a softball clinic at the GYC

For years, Scott Hodsdon wore two hats, serving as Director of Children and Youth Programs at Gilford Community Church (GCC) and Director of Gilford Youth Center (GYC). The continued growth of GYC, however, has led Hodsdon to move into a full time role, a transition that excites him.

“Our goal of the Youth Center has always been to meet the needs of the community, and we will continue to do that,” he said. “The need for even just a space for other organizations is up, so our doors are open a lot more and more often than they used to be.”

Lynne Baron, GYC Board of Director Chair, said they are “thrilled” to welcome Hodsdon into a full-time position. “Since the inception of the center in 2009, Scott has generated a number of extremely successful programs serving the Gilford community and beyond,” she said. “We look forward to our continued work with Scott and increasing GYC’s programs and outreach.”

In looking to the future, though, Hodsdon said he cannot help but reflect on his past 16-and-a-half years at GCC and the support he has received during that time from kids, parents, and members. “Without that support, I wouldn’t have been able to do what I have done there and for the kids to have the life changing opportunities that they have had—and for that I am very fortunate,” he said.

As for his philosophy behind youth programming, Hodsdon cited his intent to teach young people that they have the ability to make a difference for others in the community. “They can make their community better by the acts that they do,” he said.
For Hodsdon, ‘community’ is the most important part of his philosophy, a belief he was able to enact at GCC where he talked with kids about community, faith, and family. “The hope is that kids could take what they learned at Sunday School and bring it back into the community,” he said.

Regarding the connection between the two organizations, GCC Pastor Michael Graham said the church helped to found GYC, which is located next door. Aside from sharing staff and a community engagement philosophy, though, he said the organizations are distinct entities.

“The Youth Center is open and accessible to everyone in the surrounding communities—young and old,” he said. “It is not a program of the church, but we do share a deep commitment to serving the community…We will miss Scott as director of our youth programs at the church, but we are excited that we can continue to partner with him on shared community initiatives.”

To learn more about GYC, visit gilfordyouthcenter.com.

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Gilford Community Church Welcomes New Director of Children and Youth Programs

12/20/2022

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Amber McLane with Gilford Community Church Minister Michael Graham

Gilford Community Church (GCC) recently named Amber McLane as their new Director of Children and Youth Programs. For McLane, her interest in the position at GCC reflects a lifelong association with the church.

“Currently, we have four generations that link our family to this church,” she said. “My journey began as an infant when I was baptized by Reverend Raymond Wixon, and I grew up participating in Sunday School and singing in the youth choir.”

She also was part of GCC’s youth group where she took part in community service activities, analyzed bible verses, and “had fun participating in community events.” “During those years, I was able to interact with a variety of church members, and it was nice to know that I had a church family I could rely on,” she said.

Currently, McLane has an eight year-old son who participates in GCC’s Sunday school and youth events. “It brings joy to my heart to see him comfortable and experiencing wonderful opportunities the church has provided for him over the years,” she added.

Regarding her interest in the position, McLane cited her care regarding the youth in the Gilford Community. “I want to provide families with opportunities that will be memorable for them,” she said. “I want to help and guide children and youth on their faith journeys in a safe and positive environment.”

Previous to joining GCC’s staff, McLane has worked at Gilford Middle School for seventeen years where she is currently the Physical Education and Health Teacher. Past-President and Awards Chair for the New Hampshire Association of Physical Education Recreation and Dance (NHAHPERD), McLane was awarded Teacher of the Year for Middle School Physical Education in 2018. In 2020, she was awarded Eastern District Teacher of the Year in 2020, while she received the Denise Maslakowski Education Award from Plymouth State University in 2022.

McLane’s educational background includes a Bachelors of Science in Physical Education, Master’s in Health Education, and a Graduate Certificate in Athletic Administration from Plymouth State University.

In looking to the future at GCC as director of children and youth programs, McLane cited several initial priorities, some of which include organizing and leading Confirmation classes and serving as Sunday School teacher. Other priorities relate to her vision for her role.

“I want to work closely with the staff of Gilford Community Church to provide a safe place where individuals can express and learn about their faith,” she said.” I want to develop relationships with families and members of the church and to include and connect with Village Nursery School families…I also want to serve as a role model for GCC youth.”

Located in Gilford, NH, Gilford Community Church (GCC) is an inclusive, open community with a broadly ecumenical spirit that welcomes people from all denominational and cultural backgrounds. Sunday service takes place at 10 a.m. at 19 Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, NH and is also available on a livestream feed on GCC’s Facebook page.

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Church Celebrates 'Sermonless' Sunday

12/12/2022

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On Sunday, December 18, Gilford Community Church (GCC) will host a ‘Sermonless’ Sunday, as the choir will perform The Christmas Alleluias, a Christmas Cantata with music by Kim André Arnesen and lyrics by Euan Tate. “It's a half hour work that features the chancel choir and a soprano soloist, and it will be accompanied by harp,” said Choir Director AJ Coppola. “The soprano soloist is Kate Klingel and the harp soloist is Sorana Scarlat.”

According to Coppola, the musical service on Sunday, December 18 at 10:00 a.m. enhances “the spirit of the holidays.” “It’s the music that truly makes the season so special,” he added. “The choir has been hard at work on The Christmas Alleluias since September, and we're working hard to bring out the beauty of the music along with the story of Christmas.”

GCC Pastor Michael Graham said this special service is “an open invitation to the community.” “All ages, all faiths are welcome,” he said. “The spirit we share in our church is one of togetherness.”

GCC’s special ‘Sermonless’ Sunday service takes place at 19 Potter Hill Rd, Gilford, at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, December 18. Sunday service is also available on a livestream feed on GCC’s Facebook page. Located in Gilford, NH, Gilford Community Church (GCC) is an inclusive, open community with a broadly ecumenical spirit that welcomes people from all denominational and cultural backgrounds.

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Gilford Community Church Helps Those in Need During the Holidays

12/7/2022

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While giving back to the community is a year-round endeavor at Gilford Community Church (GCC), its importance is heightened during the holiday season. “Families are struggling with food and the cost of energy, especially as the weather turns colder,” explained Pastor Michael Graham.

To address emerging community needs in the holiday season, GCC participates in a number of community-based giving initiatives. One such initiative is St. Vincent de Paul/Children’s Foundation Christmas Angel Program, which distributes outerwear, socks, underwear, and various hygiene items to hundreds of children annually.

“Each day, we put out tags to purchase sweatshirts, jackets, and coats,” said Jessica Fleck of GCC’s Outreach Committee. “It’s truly heartwarming to watch the excitement as members choose a tag to pick up a gift, or two, or three to help someone that is less fortunate.”

GCC also distributes Thanksgiving and Christmas Food Bags. This year, Fleck said they are also helping homeless shelters restock their supply of twin sheets, blankets, and comforters.

“We have delivered bags to Carey House, New Beginnings, Helping Hands, and Gilford Neighbors,” she said. “We have also supported Belknap House and 5 people who came in asking for help.”

To aid in GCC’s holiday giving efforts, call (603) 524-6057. Located in Gilford, NH, Gilford Community Church (GCC) is an inclusive, open community with a broadly ecumenical spirit that welcomes people from all denominational and cultural backgrounds. Sunday service takes place at 10 a.m. at 19 Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, NH and is also available on a livestream feed on GCC’s Facebook page.

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Gilford Community Church Looking to Support Local Nonprofits

11/22/2022

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Reflecting its broad-based mission to make a difference in local communities through philanthropy, Gilford Community Church hopes to make a sustained impact in 2023 through the Daniell Fund.

Launched in 2022 with a substantial endowment gift made by the late Barbara and Robert Daniell, the fund is accepting applications from nonprofit organizations within the Lakes Region. Grant awards will range from $500 to $25,000.

“What we need now are applications for projects where a modest amount of funding can help an organization accomplish a significant result,” said Pastor Michael Graham.

The application deadline has been extended through the end of 2022. “We will consider any request from a nonprofit in the Lakes Region, especially those who serve low to moderate income families,” added Graham. “We look forward to learning more about how we can be of service to communities located throughout the area.

Located in Gilford, NH, Gilford Community Church (GCC) is an inclusive, open community with a broadly ecumenical spirit that welcomes people from all denominational and cultural backgrounds. Sunday service takes place at 10 a.m. at 19 Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, NH and is also available on a livestream feed on GCC’s Facebook page.

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Gilford Community Church to Celebrate Holiday Season

11/21/2022

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Gilford Community Church (GCC) is set to welcome visitors from across the region for several family-friendly events this holiday season, beginning with a Community Tree Lighting on Sunday, November 27 at 6 p.m. After the tree lighting, carols will be sung outdoors followed by a brief service led by children and youth from the church and community. The evening concludes with refreshments, including coffee, hot chocolate, cookies, and brownies.

“This is the first Sunday of Advent and the traditional kick-off to the holiday season,” said Pastor Michael Graham. who said the holidays are a special time at Gilford Community Church. “The inclusive spirit of our church is especially renewed during the holiday season.”

GCC’s holiday celebrations continue with the Annual Christmas Fair on Friday, December 2 and Saturday, December 3 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 4 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Highlighted by a Christmas raffle, the fair will feature everything from seasonal ‘white elephant’ items to holiday greens and baked goods.

“It’s always nice to see people there for their bargains,” said GCC member Steve Melbourne, whose initial experiences at the church were as a fair volunteer. “There are a lot of good folks who come here.”

GCC is currently accepting donations of non-electronic items for the fair. Items may be dropped off at the church at 19 Potter Hill Rd. in Gilford.

Located in Gilford, NH, Gilford Community Church (GCC) is an inclusive, open community with a broadly ecumenical spirit that welcomes people from all denominational and cultural backgrounds. Sunday service takes place at 10 a.m. at 19 Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, NH and is also available on a livestream feed on GCC’s Facebook page.

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Gilford Community Church To Host Cyber Security Seminar

11/16/2022

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Pastor Michael Graham at his computer.

Cybersecurity is an issue that should concern everyone, a lesson Pastor Michael Graham of Gilford Community Church (GCC) said they have repeatedly learned throughout 2022. “My email account has been frequently hacked, and we have had several church members who have been asked to send money, all of which has been very troubling,” he said. “Our Facebook account has also been hacked a few times, too.”

These “troubling events” serve as backdrop to a Cybersecurity Seminar that will take place at GCC on Saturday, November 19 at 10:00 a.m. The seminar, which will provide attendees with information on what to do and who to call if they are a victim of cyber attack, will be led by Christopher M. Jacques, Detective Sergeant, Gilford Police Department.

"As the world continues to get more connected, we need to utilize this wonderful technology with wisdom and care,” said Graham, who cited a time when most people did not lock their house at night or when they went away.

“Today, that’s almost unthinkable, he added. “We need to live with the same caution when we are connected to the web, but most of us don’t know what those best practices might look like."

GCC’s Cybersecurity Seminar takes place at 19 Potter Hill Rd. in Gilford at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 19. Attendance is free and open to the public.

Located in Gilford, NH, Gilford Community Church (GCC) is an inclusive, open community with a broadly ecumenical spirit that welcomes people from all denominational and cultural backgrounds. Sunday service takes place at 10 a.m. at 19 Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, NH and is also available on a livestream feed on GCC’s Facebook page.

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Gilford Community Church Revisits Clean Energy Project

11/6/2022

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Pastor Graham with Kids

It has been one year since Gilford Community Church (GCC) installed 204 solar panels installed on the adjoining Gilford Youth Center building as part of a multi-phase Clean Energy Project. While formally considered complete after this installation, the intention behind the project lives on.

“The desire for clean energy represents an ongoing intention, a care and concern for the planet, people, and all life forms,” said Pastor Michael Graham.

This intention, said GCC member Warren Hutchins, who spearheaded the church’s Clean Energy Project, now finds new ‘fuel’ in the need to upgrade their heating system. “We are looking at energy efficient boilers for the church as well as ways to reduce the constant operation of our UV system operation to coincide with their operation,” he explained.

According to Graham, reducing energy usage means a reduction in expenses, savings he said they invest back into the community through their community outreach initiatives. “By controlling our energy costs, that frees us up to address critical community needs and support local nonprofits,” he said.

In caring for people and the planet within an overarching organizational emphasis on diversity and inclusivity, Graham said the hope is that these intentions also help to attract younger members. Citing strong membership today, he said GCC is equally mindful of the future.

“If we are to sustain ourselves as a church, we need to demonstrate our ability to embrace our community in thoughtful ways, a message that will resonate with younger generations,” he said. “We are a church for everyone.”

Located in Gilford, NH, Gilford Community Church (GCC) is an inclusive, open community with a broadly ecumenical spirit that welcomes people from all denominational and cultural backgrounds. Sunday service takes place at 10 a.m. at 19 Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, NH and is also available on a livestream feed on GCC’s Facebook page.

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Gilford Community Church Hosts Women’s Retreat

10/24/2022

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Gilford Community Church (GCC) recently held a Women’s Retreat at Brookwood Conference Center in Alton for both members and the public. Full-time writer, humorist, storyteller, and current host of Our Hometown on New Hampshire PBS, Rebecca Rule was guest speaker at the retreat.

Some of the topics covered at the day-long event included intuitive eating, First Aid, Tibetan sound bowls, prayer beading, and guided meditation among others. “I found we met all our expectations — laughter, learning new interesting skills, friendships, relaxing techniques, and much more,” said GCC member Carole Curry, who helped plan the event. “Having Rebecca Rule as our keynote speaker was just so much fun, too.” “She has great stories and a great spirit.”

For Curry, who described herself as a minister's wife for more than 50 years with prior experience and involvement in similar events for women with other organizations, the GCC Women’s Retreat was especially meaningful. “For me, having not met a lot of people during Covid, I rejoiced in getting to know so many wonderful women,” she said.

The purpose of the event, according to Pastor Michael Graham, reflects GCC’s broad-based mission of inclusivity. “We are an open community with a broadly ecumenical spirit that welcomes people from all denominational and cultural backgrounds,” he said. “We were thrilled to host this event specifically for women so they could form bonds with one another.”

Curry agreed and said a phrase she used at the retreat, authored by Susan Ariel Rainbow Kennedy (known by her pen name of SARK), captured the spirit of the day. ‘“The circle of women around us weave invisible nets of love that carry us when we’re weak and sing with us when we are strong,”’ she said.

Located in Gilford, NH, Gilford Community Church (GCC) is an inclusive, open community with a broadly ecumenical spirit that welcomes people from all denominational and cultural backgrounds. Sunday service takes place at 10 a.m. at 19 Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, NH and is also available on a livestream feed on GCC’s Facebook page.

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<<Previous

Gals and Guys Night Out at Gilford Community Church a Big Success

Gilford Youth Center Welcomes Scott Hodsdon as Full-Time Director

Gilford Community Church Welcomes New Director of Children and Youth Programs

Church Celebrates 'Sermonless' Sunday

Gilford Community Church Helps Those in Need During the Holidays

Gilford Community Church Looking to Support Local Nonprofits

Gilford Community Church to Celebrate Holiday Season

Gilford Community Church To Host Cyber Security Seminar

Gilford Community Church Revisits Clean Energy Project

Gilford Community Church Hosts Women’s Retreat

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