“All are welcome” echoes through the walls of Eliot Church of Newton. This isn’t just a slogan. It’s the beating heart of this community. Eliot Church stands here on Centre Street. It is ready to welcome all who seek solace or community.
The story of Eliot Church of Newton starts back in 1845. It was a Congregational Trinitarian church. It stood at the corner of Centre and Church Streets in Newton Corner. The church has been a cornerstone of Newton. It has witnessed the city’s transformation. Newton changed from an agricultural hub to a suburban residential community.
What can you expect on your first visit to Eliot Church? First, know that all are welcome. Eliot Church believes that God doesn’t put people in boxes. The church welcomes all ages and genders. All sexual orientations and races are welcome. All ethnicities and marital statuses are too. Physical and mental abilities are no barrier here. All classes find a home in this place. The church believes that all people are made in God’s image.
During a typical Sunday morning worship at Eliot Church of Newton, you will experience a service filled with song. There is praise and prayer. The wonderful choir lifts its voices. They sing praises to God. You will hear ancient scriptures. Sermons inspire you to live a good life. A greeter hands out a program. It guides you through the entire service.
On the first Sunday of each month, Eliot Church of Newton celebrates Holy Communion. This ancient ritual remembers the Last Supper. Jesus had this with his disciples. The church continues this practice by breaking bread. They share wine or grape juice together. The church also receives support from the congregation. This is support for their work. This support is visible through personal skills and gifts. It is also visible financially.
Do you have kids? Bring them. Eliot Church of Newton welcomes the laughter of children. At the back of the sanctuary is a “pray-ground”. This space is for children to read and play. They can also draw. During the “Message for the Young,” the pastor sits with the children.
What should you wear? Some people dress up. Others are casual. Wear clothes you feel comfortable in. What matters most is that you show up at Eliot Church of Newton.
Typically, worship services last an hour. On Sundays with Holy Communion, services might run ten minutes longer. After the service, people gather for coffee and cookies. There may be other events or potlucks.
Eliot Church of Newton is accessible to all. There’s a ramp on the back of the building. It faces the playground. An elevator is available inside.
The Eliot Church of Newton extends an invitation. It is an invitation to experience a community. This community puts its faith into action. The church supports progressive climate action. It helps local organizations. The members engage in volunteer work. The Eliot Church of Newton gathers to learn about God. They learn about true discipleship. Together, they learn to live a life of love and kindness. The church on Centre Street embodies welcome. It embodies faith in action. It makes a real difference in the world.