Blog Posts - Gilford Community Church

GCC Holds Annual Christmas Fair & Raffle

11/26/2025

The Gilford Community Church will be holding their Annual Christmas Fair on Friday, December 5th, 4:00 – 6:30 pm and Saturday, December 6th, 9:00 am-1:00 pm.

This year’s theme is “FAITH, FAMILY, FOOD & FUN.

You can expect our fan favorites with lots of Christmas Items, Fresh Wreaths and Greens, our renowned Jewelry Room, delicious Baked Goods and the White Elephant Sale.

New this year, we will be holding a Christmas Raffle with 8 fantastic prizes – pertaining to our theme. The drawing will be held on Saturday, December 6th, at the fair. You do not need to be present to win.

We have also added food choices of pizza and a drink on Friday, and breakfast sandwiches, muffins and drinks on Saturday.

If parking is an issue on Saturday, you can head over to the Town Hall and hop on the FREE SHUTTLE to enjoy all of the events in Gilford Village.

“Our Fairs are very important to the Church,” said Joyce Collins, Christmas Fair Chairman, “as they help fund all the Charities, Programs, and Organizations the Gilford Community Church supports.”

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.

GCC Kicks Off the Holiday Season with Annual Tree Lighting Service

11/18/2025

Gilford Community Church (GCC) celebrates the beginning of the holiday season with their Annual Community Tree Lighting Service on Sunday, November 30th at 5 p.m.

“Each year, we kick off the advent season with our tree lighting service”, said GCC Youth Director, Amber McLane. Members of the church and community stand around a beautiful lit tree and sing Christmas carols. Our GCC youth take part in the service, performing holiday songs and readings. “This is a special event that is sure to spark your holiday cheer”, she added.

The evening concludes with refreshments, including coffee, hot chocolate, cookies, and brownies served downstairs in our Fellowship Hall.

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 every Sunday at 10 a.m. To learn more, or virtually attend service, visit gilfordcommunitychurch.org.

Humble Grunt Work Joins Us to Discuss Their Mission

10/30/2025

On Sunday, November 9, 2025, Sandra Newhall will be joining us to discuss a group she is passionate about, Humble Grunt Work, a local Veterans organization that honors all branches of the military.

In the spirit of CPL Eugene F. Burgess, Jr., their mission is to recognize and honor those who have served. He believed in getting the job done “grunt style” boots on the ground, letting nothing stop him from accomplishing his missions. They will work “grunt style” until every NH Veteran has been recognized. Leaving no one behind, only then will their mission be complete.

Humble Grunt Work is involved in the Honor Flight Program, bringing World War II Veterans to visit Washington DC, free of charge and also has plans to lay over 800 wreaths at the NH Veteran Cemetery in December, honoring each of them by placing a wreath on their headstone, saying their name and thanking them for their service.

If you would like more information or to get involved, please visit their website, www.humblegruntwork.org

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.

A Retreat for Women

10/14/2025

The Gilford Community Church is sponsoring an event just for women and is welcoming back Gina McGuire as the keynote speaker. A Retreat for Women, entitled, “Stepping Outside the Box” will be held on Saturday, October 25th, at the Brookwoods Conference Center on the lake in Alton.

Opening the program will be Gina McGuire, a Holistic Board-Certified NH Registered Nurse and a Health and Wellness Practitioner. She presents regionally and nationally to inspire, motivate, and educate people to care for their bodies and minds. Her energy is contagious!

The all-day event, held from 8:30 to 3 pm, promises a day of relaxation, reflection and fun. Attendees are invited to choose attending sessions such as Chair Yoga, Crafts, Reiki and Sound Healing, Guided Meditation, Line Dancing, Skin Care and more. In addition, there will be opportunities to explore the beautiful conference center setting.

The cost is $45.00 and includes an outstanding buffet lunch.
Registrations may be made by calling the Gilford Community Church office at 603-524–6057 Monday through Thursday from 8:30-2 pm. Call now as space is limited and bring a friend.

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.

(Photo of Presenter, Gina McGuire)

"Songs & Psalms" A Presentation by Lakes Region VNA Chaplain, David Poole

9/18/2025

David Poole, the Lakes Region VNA Chaplain, is offering a one-time session that may bring comfort to caregivers and families in our congregation. The session uses familiar music, scripture, poetry, and simple rituals to support those living with dementia and their loved ones.

Music can be especially powerful, opening doors to memory and emotion. Songs like Amazing Grace, How Great Thou Art, or even Somewhere Over the Rainbow often spark meaningful memories. Psalms such as The Lord is My Shepherd or To Everything There Is a Season can provide peace and reassurance, while well-known poems like Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep or The Road Less Traveled offer caregivers words to lean on in difficult moments.

The session is FREE to attend and lasts about 60 minutes. It is designed not only for those facing memory loss or end-of-life challenges but also for their caregivers, providing a space for comfort, connection, and support. Join us!

Gilford Community Church Hosts Gals’ Night Out

9/10/2025

The Gilford Community Church has scheduled their next “Gals’ Night Out” for Friday, September 26, 2025, at 6pm. Entertainment will be provided by Bryan Conway, "Just One Man...An Entire Band" and a delicious dinner will be prepared by Ellie Murphy!

Gentlemen are also invited to enjoy music from the 50's, 60's and 70's...so put on your dancing shoes and get ready for a wonderful night!

Tickets are $25 and are on sale now in the church office.

We will once again be collecting donated items for New Beginnings Women’s Shelter in Laconia. Their current needs are: new pillows, zippered mattress covers, twin size sheets, blankets, comforters, queen size sheets, blankets, comforters, cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, disinfectant wipes, toilet bowl cleaner, toothpaste (kids and adults), diapers (Size 5 and 6), baking sheets, pots & pans.

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 YouTube, Sunday service at GCC takes place at 10 a.m. To learn more about GCC, or virtually attend service, visit gilfordcommunitychurch.org.

GCC Choir “Sings!”

8/28/2025

Led by the energetic AJ Coppola, our vibrant choir at The Gilford Community Church not only brings fabulous music to each of the services, but a great deal of camaraderie amongst the group itself.

"I grew up at the Gilford Community Church and it has been such a joy to lead the choir here for ten years. It's a great pleasure to come to rehearsal every week and make music with your friends. We are more than a community of singers, we're a family," said Coppola.

During the 2024-2025 season, the GCC Choir performed 34 Anthems as a group, averaging 20 dedicated singers each week. For the upcoming 2025-2026 season, they are gearing up for another fantastic year that will include the following special pieces:

December 14 – “The Dream Isaiah Saw” by Glenn Rudolph, a choir singer's favorite, this piece will be accompanied by organ, percussion and brass quintet.

January 19 – “A Vision Unfolding” by Kyle Pederson, a five-movement piece for chorus, violin, trumpet and percussion with themes of peace and the ideals of Martin Luther King, Jr.

June 7 – “Illuminare” by Elaine Hagenberg, five-movement work with chorus and string orchestra with a theme of light through the darkness.

If you are interested in joining the choir, please email the church office ([email protected]) for more information or stop by after Sunday service or rehearsal, most of which take place on Thursdays from 6-7 pm in the Sanctuary. “All are welcome, just like the church,” added Coppola.

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.

Big Family Fun at Gilford Community Church Fair & Silent Auction

8/18/2025

A family favorite on Gilford Old Home Day is the Gilford Community Church Old Home Days Fair and Silent Auction Friday and Saturday August 22nd and 23rd.

The Giant White Elephant/Man Cave sale starts Friday afternoon 4:00-6:30pm in the Fellowship Hall. Explore the Jewelry Room, Toys and games, and tasty Baked Goods. Tons of household goods, wall art, and back to college items. Tastebud temptations outside with the Chuck Wagon featuring Wine’ing Butcher Burgers, NEW Cheesy Sausages, 2 for $5 Hot Dogs, Insane baked beans and Cold Drinks. The popular Fried Dough booth will be right in front of the church all day Saturday

The huge Silent Auction open at 4pm in the Gilford Youth Center. All bids must be in by Saturday at 1pm.

The fun continues Saturday morning starting at 8:00am. The Giant White Elephant sale continues.

The Gilford Rotary Pancake Breakfast to benefit the Cheryl Lynn Walsh Scholarship Fund take place from 7am till 10 am wrapping up in time for the Gilford Old Home Day Parade.

After the parade bring the kids to the youth center for the free Magic Fred Magic Show at 11:30am. Magic Fred entertains family audiences with comedy magic. A popular favorite throughout New England. The shows are open to the public and are free of charge.

“The event is a lot of fun, and its deeper purpose is to support our local and international philanthropic efforts,” said Pastor Michael Graham. “It’s also a chance to experience our community, which is inclusive and open to all.”

Over 100 items will be featured in the massive Silent Auction which takes place in the Youth Center with dozens of items from local merchants and specialty baskets created and donated by church members.

Auction Items include a Winnipesaukee Cruise for 12 on the 50 foot classic yacht “Gypsy”; 2 Last Wills & Testaments Gift Certificates; A One Night Stay at Towneplace Suites by Marriott in Gilford; A One Night Stay at Mill Falls @ the Lake in Meredith; 4 Narrated Scenic Tour Tickets on the MS Mount Washington; Two One Day Midweek Lift Tickets at Gunstock; Two Weekday Ski Tickets at Pats Peak Ski Area and many many more.

Gilford Community Church is at 19 Potter Hill Road.

The “One Community Project” Successfully Completes 2025 Projects

7/9/2025

Each summer, the Gilford Community Church (GCC) selects a community service project to focus on through their One Community Project (OCP). This year, they decided to take on two projects. One at the Rollins property, which is well known as the Muehlke Christmas Tree Farm in Gilford, focusing on landscaping, scraping and repainting a garage. The second project was to work with the Historical Society committee to landscape around the Grange and Town Meeting House located in Gilford Village.
“It’s good to give back to our community and connect with others while helping a fellow neighbor. My entire family has worked on these projects for over a decade, and it has been a valuable experience for all of us,” said longtime volunteer, Paul Buckley.
The One Community Project (OCP) started in 2011 as a local Gilford community service event for kids. The focus of each OCP event is to provide all community members with the opportunity to make a difference in our community. Over the years, they have painted and landscaped fourteen homes, worked at the town fields, town beach, the Gilford Youth Center, and Gilford Community Church.
This year, the projects took place June 21st through 23rd, from 9 am to 1 pm.
“OCP is about making a difference in the community,” said Amber McLane, director of GCC’s Youth Program. “This year, we had more than 30 youth and adults involved in OCP ranging in age from 11 to 90 years old, and we are looking forward to increasing that number each and every year.”
The OCP is sponsored in part by Wal-Mart and Bank of NH. “We are so thankful for these businesses supporting this event,” added McLane.
Jenny Tichich said, “This is an opportunity to get my entire family involved in a great cause. I was able to work on this project with my mother, son and husband. This experience gives me a feeling of warmth in my heart that I am making a difference in my community. Everyone is working hard to accomplish the task and the energy surrounding the project is infectious.”
“I like helping the community! People connect with each other, and I get to learn new skills like driving a tractor,” added Jenny’s son, Reed Tichich.
Thank you to our 2025 Volunteers:
Adults
Al and Jane Rollins
Tom Meierjurgen
Amber and Billy McLane
Jenny and Nick Tichich
Ella Brown
Donna Snow
Melissa and Tom Fullerton
Caroline Drouin
Paul Buckley
Donna Snow
Amy Tripp
Jean Clougherty
Youth
Landon McLane
Reed Tichich
Lilly Bishop
Jacoby Drouin
Curtis Drouin
Ben Coapland
Ashley Houle
Macy Sawyer
Connor Cameron
Bristol Weber
Kael Weber
Grace Southworth

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 Welcomes New Members

6/26/2025

The Gilford Community Church (GCC) continues to grow, recently welcoming 5 new members, including Jean Clougherty, Kathy Ford, Scott and Maryann McNeil and Aryssa McCarter.

“Prior to joining, we knew a lot of what the GCC offered the community,” said Scott and Maryann McNeil. “We knew from all the years our son was in Boy Scouts. We also liked supporting Gilford Got Lunch. Our children participated in the After-School Program at the community center (Gilford Youth Center) and both our children also attended the Village Nursery School. When we were looking for a new church, we knew where to go.”

“The GCC has such a positive vibe in supporting the local community and has always been inviting. We met with Michael Graham to learn more and that convinced us to join,” added the McNeil’s.

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. Viewable live on Facebook and available later on YouTube, Sunday service takes place at 10 am.

Seated L to R: Jean Clougherty, Mary Cegelski (she joined in March but missed having her picture taken then), Kathy Ford
Back row L to R: Maryann McNeil, Scott McNeil, Aryssa McCarter