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Gilford Community Church Awards 5 Scholarships to Graduating Seniors

6/24/2022

GCC member Sue Allen (r) presenting GCC Scholarship Award to Reece Sadler (l), one of five scholarship recipients.

Gilford Community Church (GCC) recently awarded five $5,000 scholarships to graduating seniors. Made possible through GCC’s Scholarship Fund, the selection committee acts on behalf of the Daniell Family Foundation in reviewing and distributing annual education grants to Gilford area students.

“This fund was originally established in 1996 as the Helping Hand Scholarship by the Reverend Raymond C. Wixson and Barbara and Robert Daniell,” explained Pastor Michael Graham. “All committee members truly enjoy this opportunity to see the accomplishments of high school graduates, learn their future plans, and play a small part in assisting the Daniell Family Foundation to help them realize those plans.”

The names of the student who received the scholarship and their chose colleges include: Hale Kutuk: Simmons University, Boston, MA; Shealagh Brown: University of Vermont, Burlington, VT; Reece Anna Sadler: Bentley University, Waltham, MA; Mackenzie Roys: Plymouth State University, Plymouth, NH; and Riley Marsh: Plymouth State University, Plymouth, NH.

“Receiving this scholarship will help me further my education at Plymouth State University so I may become a math teacher and share my passions and love of math with students,” said Scholarship recipient Roys.

For Roys, the scholarship award was particularly meaningful, as he cited he has been part of GCC since “[he] was born.” “My church family has given me the strength, drive, and foundation to push through hardships and reach my goal of educating younger generations so they may do even more incredible things than myself,” he said.

Commenting on the nature of the Scholarship Fund itself, Graham said the committee considers applicants from both inside and outside the church. “This is a community fund open to young people from our congregation or who attend Gilford High School,” he said. “We are so grateful for the opportunity to invest in young people in furthering their educational goals.”

Located in Gilford, NH, GCC is an inclusive, open community with a broadly ecumenical spirit that welcomes people from all denominational and cultural backgrounds. Viewable live on YouTube, services take place at 10 a.m. on Sundays at 19 Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, NH.

Summer Music Series to Open at Gilford Community Church

6/7/2022

On Sunday, June 12 as part of its regular Sunday service at 10 a.m., Gilford Community Church (GCC) will host the first performance of its Summer Music Series with musicians Michael Wernig and Chris Tompkins.

A recent graduate of UNH, Wernig currently works at Newmarket Parks and Recreation and offers private piano lessons. Performing at GCC since he was a young adult, Tompkins has stayed at Lake Shore Park in Gilford for the summer for more than 55 years. During Sunday’s service, Werning will play My Romance and Rhapsody in Blue, while Tompkins will sing gospel and also sing a duet, “There Was Jesus,” with Cindie Graham.

“We are thrilled to welcome both musicians here to kick off our Summer Music Series,” said Pastor Michael Graham, who noted that GCC’s Sunday services in the summer are “full of music.” “Our services, especially in the summer, feature beautiful, live music and sermons meant to inspire people to think critically and with their hearts…I do not preach dogma.”

GCC’s Summer Music Series continues weekly every Sunday through September 4. Featuring all musical styles from classical to contemporary, performances take place during Sunday services, which begin at 10 a.m.

For those unfamiliar with GCC and its popularity as a music venue, Graham said visitors are “in for a treat.” “We don’t want to be a secret,” he said. “We have a beautiful state of the art system and incredible acoustics here. If you have not visited us, please do – you will be surprised at what you hear.”

Located in Gilford, NH, GCC is an inclusive, open community with a broadly ecumenical spirit that welcomes people from all denominational and cultural backgrounds. Viewable live on YouTube, services take place at 10 a.m. on Sundays at 19 Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, NH.

Gilford Community Church Invests in Community through Diaconate Fund

6/2/2022

Pastor Michael Graham (l) in planning session with GCC members

Gilford Community Church (GCC) has awarded $2,700 to the Town of Gilford to support recycling and $2,000 to start a mentor program for recently released individuals from Belknap County Department of Corrections. The awards were made possible through GCC’s Diaconate Fund.

“Diaconate funds are typically used to help individuals in emergency circumstances,” said Stacey Pate, chair of GCC’s Diaconate Committee. “However, we felt that these two projects were important not only on an individual basis but community wide, and were a good use of our resources.”

Scott Dunn, town administrator for the Town of Gilford, said they are "extremely grateful and appreciative for the generous donation.” “Over the years, the town and GCC have forged a wonderful partnership and their most recent unsolicited donation is a testament to their commitment to the Gilford community.”

The investment in the town’s recycling program, according to GCC Pastor Michael Graham, will enable the town to complete needed electrical work. “We are happy we could provide them with the boost they needed to complete an important project that helps to reduce the town’s carbon footprint.”

Regarding GCC’s choice to invest in Belknap County Department of Corrections, GCC Community Outreach Committee Chairperson Jessica Fleck expressed enthusiasm for their new mentor program. “This is a program that will match community mentors with folks reentering their communities,” she said. “Our support will help with expenses, such as rides to work, laundry, cell phones needed to maintain employment, and small household items. Our investment will also help defray training costs for the mentors.”

In looking ahead to future investments in the community, Graham said GCC’s investment philosophy is as open as its inclusive membership. “We support and welcome people from all denominational and cultural backgrounds,” he added.

Viewable live on YouTube, GCC services take place at 10 a.m. on Sundays at 19 Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, NH.

Gilford Community Church Names Music Room in Honor of Carolyn Ames

5/19/2022

GCC Music Director/Organist, Carolyn Ames, Photo: Photography by Kimberly

Gilford Community Church (GCC) recently renamed its music room to honor the contributions of Music Director/Organist Carolyn Ames, who has served in this capacity since 2006.

“My late husband, David, and I had church shopped before we moved here permanently,” said Ames. “We found GCC to be very welcoming and were impressed by their community outreach. This church is family. We help each other in difficult as well as happy times.”

This willingness to help was apparent during the pandemic, as Ames and the choir became creative with how they shared music with the congregation. “During the pandemic, a small group of members and musicians prerecorded all the music, as we could not have choir participation,” she noted.

It was this dedication to “carrying on despite challenging circumstances” that led Pastor Michael Graham and church leadership to name their music room in her honor. “Carolyn truly helped carry on our services during the pandemic,” he said. “This dedication is only fitting for her hard work these many years.”

Regarding the accolade, Ames described her initial reaction as one of surprise. “I was very touched by the naming of the choir room,” she said. “It was such a surprise, and I am honored. This church family and choir are a true blessing.”

Graham agreed and added, “We are all blessed to be part of this wonderful community that extends far beyond our church walls.”

Located in Gilford, NH, GCC is an inclusive, open community with a broadly ecumenical spirit that welcomes people from all denominational and cultural backgrounds. Viewable live on YouTube, services take place at 10 a.m. on Sundays at 19 Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, NH.

Gilford Got Lunch Receives Grant from the Greater Lakes Region Children’s Auction

5/10/2022

GCC member Bob Souter stocking shelves for Gilford Got Lunch program.

A program of Gilford Community Church (GCC), Gilford Got Lunch recently received a $5,000 grant from the Greater Lakes Region Children’s Auction to provide healthy and nutritious breakfasts and lunches to school-aged children.

“We cannot express our gratitude enough for fellow nonprofit organizations such as The Children’s Auction that help support our efforts year after year,” said Sharyn Sasserson, Gilford Got Lunch Chairperson.

Gilford Got Lunch provides breakfast, snack, and lunch items to more than 50 kids within the Gilford School District annually. “This covers weekends and vacations during the school year and full weeks during summer months,” added Sasserson.

GCC Pastor Michael Graham said the grant from the Greater Lakes Region Children’s Auction is especially impactful given the current economic climate. “Lingering effects from the pandemic and current world events have significantly impacted everyone, but especially our most vulnerable, which includes children,” he said. “This grant provides a significant boost to our efforts to address food insecurity in our community”

This project was funded in part by a grant from the Greater Lakes Region Children’s Auction. To learn more about Gilford Got Lunch, a program of GCC, visit gilfordgotlunch.com.

Located in Gilford, NH, GCC is an inclusive, open community with a broadly ecumenical spirit that welcomes people from all denominational and cultural backgrounds.

About the Greater Lakes Region Children’s Auction
The Greater Lakes Region Children's Auction is an annual event held every December in central New Hampshire. The fundraiser made $2,100 in its first year and has come a long way with the help of countless volunteers and donors who have helped turn it into a major annual campaign. During the 40 years that the community has come together, more than $7.5 million has been raised for local charities, all through volunteer efforts, community donations and corporate sponsorships. Thank you, Lakes Region! For more information, please visit childrensauction.com or call 603-527-0999.

Gilford Community Church Awards Two $25,000 Grants

5/2/2022

Pastor Michael Graham of the Gilford Community Church

Gilford Community Church (GCC) recently awarded two $25,000 grants to Lakes Region Mental Health Center and Lakes Region Community Developers (LRCD), respectively. The awards were made possible through a substantial endowment gifted to GCC by Barbara and the late Robert Daniell that has resulted in the creation of the Daniell Fund.

“Their generosity will enable us to make yearly contributions to Lakes Region charities to improve and better the lives of the people in our community,” noted GCC Pastor Michael Graham.

Regarding the rationale behind the first annual disbursement of the Daniell Fund, Graham said their selection of Lakes Region Mental Health Center and Lakes Region Community Developers reflects GCC’s concern over the housing crisis.

“Due to inflation, inventory, and the pandemic, housing has never been in shorter supply for those in need,” he said.

Regarding its use, the grant award will help Lakes Region Mental Health Center for assistance in the renovation of temporary housing at McGrath Street and procurement of community housing for transitioning patients.

“We were elated to receive this gift,” said Maggie Pritchard, CEO, Lakes Region Mental Health Center. “With it, we can create, improve and expand our housing services given the dire need of many people in our community, especially those affected by mental illnesses.”

At Lakes Region Community Developers (LRCD), the grant award will support the redevelopment of the Gale School into a daycare location in partnership with the Boys and Girls Club of Central New Hampshire.

“We are incredibly grateful to have the support of the Gilford Community Church,” said Carmen Lorentz, LRCD Executive Director. “This generous grant will ensure we have the necessary funds for the final fit-up of the school.”

The $25,000 award will also assist LRDC develop a second location for Lakes Region Community Services, a non-profit that serves individuals and families living with developmental disabilities or acquired brain disorders.

“The original intent of the Daniell Fund was to provide financial support for the betterment of the Gilford community at large, so these projects certainly accomplish this goal,” said GCC Member Bob Souter.

Fellow GCC Member Jessica Fleck, who served on the committee that deliberated on recipient selections, agreed with Souter and said their hope was to make decisions for maximum community benefit. She said her work on this committee reflects GCC’s broader philanthropic mission, which is exemplified in its Outreach Committee of which she is also part.

“It is the responsibility of the Outreach Committee to develop relationships and offer support to the community and beyond our borders through charitable donations and social action,” she explained. “The projects funded through the Daniell Fund helped us to achieve our larger mission.”

In addition to the $25,000 awards, GCC allocated funds for lecturers and speakers with the intended benefit “to educate and enlighten the community.”

“We are truly humbled and honored to be able to continue to carry out our mission as a force for love, good and unity in our community,” said Graham. “We thank the Daniell Family for allowing us the means to continue to do so.”

Located in Gilford, NH, GCC is an inclusive, open community with a broadly ecumenical spirit that welcomes people from all denominational and cultural backgrounds. Viewable live on YouTube, services take place at 10 a.m. on Sundays at 19 Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, NH.

Village Nursery School Hires New Director

4/26/2022

Meg Plummer, who will join Village Nursery School as director this fall, with kids.

Recently, Village Nursery School (VNS) hired Meg Plummer as director, a position for which she expressed excitement. “I can’t wait to build relationships with the preschoolers and their families,” said Plummer, who will start this fall.

Having earned a master’s in Elementary Education in November 2020 preceded by a bachelor's degree in Family Studies, Plummer grew up in Gilford and now lives in Center Harbor. In addition to raising her daughters at home, she has recently served as a substitute teacher in the Gilford School District.

“I have always appreciated what the Gilford Community has to offer, even more so now as an adult,” she noted. “I know how fortunate I am to have grown up in this community and was excited for my daughter to attend VNS this year. As an educator, I love how VNS focuses on who the child is rather than what they are able to do.”

This focus at VNS, according to Plummer, has led to the development of a curriculum that is designed to give both teachers and preschoolers room to be creative when it comes to learning. She cited the introduction of a new theme each week at VNS as but one example of this creativity.

“Academic subjects, including math, literacy and science are based around the theme each week,” she explained. “There is such a great balance of play-based learning with group lessons and activities. The children get a chance to learn about themselves, each other and the world around them.”

VNS was started more than 40 years ago by Gilford Community Church (GCC) with whom it still shares space. While the church serves as their umbrella and provides them with a home and guidance, VNS Board Chair Pam Clark said the two organizations are separate but share resources, such as office, financial and custodial staff.

“We try to keep the school associated with the church without it being so attached that people believe that in order to go to the school you must also be part of the church,” she said. “We do not teach religion in the school – it functions as a normal non-religious preschool.”

According to GCC Pastor Michael Graham, VNS is one of the most significant things that the church ever initiated, as he cited hundreds of children have had their first school experience there through the years.

“I can’t think of a more caring environment for children to spend their mornings than at the Village Nursery School,” he said. “The church is committed to enriching the life of our community, and VNS certainly does that.”

Regarding the layout of the space, Clark said VNS features “gorgeous open, sunny classrooms.” She said their space is enhanced by an outdoor classroom, playground, and a full gym at Gilford Youth Center, which shares the GCC campus.” “We are also next to the library,” she added.

As for the future, Plummer expressed enthusiasm. “I know that many families look forward to the wonderful traditions at VNS, and I plan to keep them all alive while adding some new traditions along the way,” she said.

To learn more about VNS, visit gilfordvillagenurseryschool.com.

Pastor Celebrates 20 Years at Gilford Community Church

4/22/2022

On May 1, Pastor Michael Graham will celebrate 20 years at Gilford Community Church, an occasion for which many members have expressed appreciation. “I find Michael’s sermons enlightening, especially when he opens his heart to us and tells us about his personal life experiences,” said Sue Allen, GCC Council Chair.

She said Graham “always keeps his door open,” whether someone needs advice or simply wants to talk with him. “He has been there for so many individuals that are struggling with tough decisions, loss of a loved one, or just needs reassurance,” she added.

GCC member Walter Flinn, who was on the committee that brought Graham to the church, agreed with Allen and said Graham leads with “caring and skill.” “As our spiritual leader, he stands by us in all our ups and downs,” said Flynn, who noted Graham has also helped GCC usher in a period of substantial operational growth.

During the past 20 years, GCC has remodeled its physical structure, which includes the addition of Gilford Youth Center, and expanded its community-based programs and services. “We’ve also achieved dramatic growth in the contributions made by the congregation in time and money supporting outreach,” said Flinn.

This outreach has included financial contributions to dozens of area nonprofits. This past year, GCC has supported the New Hampshire Food Bank, Belknap House, New Beginnings, Farnum Center, Lakes Region Mental Health Center, Stand Up Laconia, American Baptist Church of NH and VT, Camp Resilience, and numerous others. “Each month, church volunteers serve meals at the Salvation Army Friendly Kitchen and Isaiah 61 Café and also 50 plus meals each week under our Senior Mobile Meals Program,” explained Allen.

For Graham, though, his gratitude extends to the congregation and larger community, as he cited feeling “so lucky” to have been invited to serve both. “I so appreciate that this community has allowed me to grow and evolve in my understanding of faith and life,” he said. “ I think for the foreseeable future that our focus will be on serving as a voice that brings people together, welcoming diversity of thought, and demonstrating a commitment to model a capacious way of living."

This way of living, according to Allen, is an invitation to all. “Visit our website for a livestream of our service or attend our Sunday Service,” she said. “While here, you will enjoy beautiful music, interesting sermons, and hands of friendship along with coffee and food downstairs afterwards in our Fellowship Hall.”

Located in Gilford, NH, GCC is an inclusive, open community with a broadly ecumenical spirit that welcomes people from all denominational and cultural backgrounds. Viewable live on YouTube, services take place at 10 a.m. on Sundays at 19 Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, NH.

Kimayo to Perform at Gilford Community Church

4/5/2022

On Saturday, April 30 at 7 p.m., singer-songwriter Kimayo will perform at Gilford Community Church (GCC), a donation-based musical concert that is part of her tour, ‘My Queer Faith.’ “The vision is to perform at open and affirming spaces of faith and share my life journey of faith and sexuality,” she said.

Noting she has lived in Gilford throughout the pandemic, Kimayo said she began to attend services at GCC in January at which time she discussed her ideas for a tour with Pastor Michael Graham. “Michael was super receptive to the idea, and his vision for the community felt completely aligned with my desire to reach people,” she said.

Originally from Massachusetts, Kimayo began to write music and play the guitar her freshman year at the University of New Hampshire in 2008. Prior to that, she played the trumpet for 8 years in secondary school and also sang. In 2019, she elected to pursue music full-time with the release of her debut album, Phoenix: The Acoustic Sessions, which was recorded, mixed, and mastered by Sam McArthur at The Greenhouse recording studio.

Describing her musical style as folk-pop, Kimayo said her tour reflects her desire “to cultivate connection, solidarity, and hope through love and creative expression.” “To be human is a most beautiful and painful experience,” she explained. “Embracing it fully and stepping into the ‘more’ is the best way I know to show gratitude for this gift. The ‘more’ is scary, and it is so worth it. May we all live into the ‘more’.”

In welcoming Kimayo to perform at GCC, pastor Michael Graham said her concert reflects “a long history of outstanding music.” “Aside from live music during our Sunday services, we have hosted a number of concerts, including performers like Peter Mayer, Bob McCarthy, Pemigewasset Choral Society and the NH Master Chorale,” he said. “We have a state of the art sound system, and the sanctuary is a wonderful acoustic environment.”

The concert with Kimayo is donation-based and takes place on Saturday, April 30. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the concert scheduled from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. followed by coffee and pastries downstairs and the chance to meet Kimayo and purchase merchandise. To learn more about Kimayo, or hear her sing, visit kimayomusic.com

Located in Gilford, NH, GCC is an inclusive, open community with a broadly ecumenical spirit that welcomes people from all denominational and cultural backgrounds. Viewable live on YouTube, services take place at 10 a.m. on Sundays at 19 Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, NH.

Gilford Community Church Recognizes Members' Contributions

3/28/2022

Gilford Community Church Members Honored at Annual Meeting, pictured from left to right, Joseph Fleck, Stacey Pate and Eston Ross

At its recent annual meeting, Gilford Community Church (GCC) formally recognized the contributions of longtime members Stacey Pate, Joe Fleck, and Eston Ross, each of whom expressed affinity for the church.

“My first visit to Gilford Community Church was so vastly different from any other church I have attended,” noted Pate, who joined more than 20 years ago when her son was young. “It gave us both a sense of community and belonging.”

Reflecting on more than 20 years at GCC, Pate said she still feels the same way every time she steps into the building. “I will never be able to pay back to the church, the congregation, and Michael even a fraction of what it has given me,” she said. “I am grateful that I am able to help on the Diaconate and take part in the Sunday service.”

According to Sue Allen, GCC Council Chair, Pate’s commitment extends well beyond their Sunday services. “She also serves as secretary for our Church Council meetings as well as for the Faith Proposal and Annual meetings,” she explained. “Stacey is always willing to go above and beyond by volunteering to serve as the secretary for the Gilford Got Lunch Program, which is sponsored by the church.”

Describing him as “a quiet individual,” Allen said Fleck has always made a difference “behind the scenes.” “As a member of the Diaconate Committee, Joe has covered the video taping for our church services since COVID changed the way we worship,” she said. “His contribution and commitment has allowed our congregation to watch our services from the comfort of their homes and always be part of our church family.”

According to Fleck, the pandemic highlighted the “big part” GCC played in his life and those of other GCC members. “Running the video each week was a small way for me to give back to the church and community that has given so much to me and my family,” he said.

Regarding the contributions of Ross, Allen cited his leadership on GCC’s Facilities Committee, which oversaw a recently completed multi-phase Clean Energy project that included the installation of ultra-violet air filters and solar panels. She said he has also ensured the campus can be safely traversed in the winter.

“You would often see Eston salting and shoveling on campus at all hours of the day, making sure that our driveway and walkways were safe for our visitors,” she noted. “He has worked countless hours checking on our facility and is owed a debt of gratitude for the difference he has quietly made.”

While expressing appreciation for the recognition, Ross said there are many members who volunteer much more of their time and resources. “They bring with them experience and expertise in areas that can really make an impact in our church and in our community,” he said.

Ross said he particularly appreciates GCC’s focus on philanthropy. “It is a great feeling for me to be a part of a group that has chosen to help out local organizations that provide aid and relief for so many in our surrounding neighborhoods,” he added.

According to Pastor Michael Graham, it is this outward gaze that defines the vision of GCC. “We are part of this community and care deeply about our neighbors, our community, and this planet,” he said. “I’m so thankful to serve alongside our members to make a meaningful difference. We act locally and think globally.”

Located in Gilford, NH, GCC is an inclusive, open community with a broadly ecumenical spirit that welcomes people from all denominational and cultural backgrounds. Viewable live on YouTube, services take place at 10 a.m. on Sundays at 19 Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, NH.