CHATHAM – The First Congregational Church of Chatham has launched the “Vision 2020” campaign to update its historic building.
The goal is to raise $3.2 million.
The church is looking to upgrade the Old Harbor Road entrance, add an elevator and accessible bathrooms for handicapped attendees, refurbish the organ, and add other improvements.
“This just makes our building even more accessible to both members of the church and, just as importantly, to the community in which we live in as well,” said Reverend Joe Marchio.
The First Congregational Church, established in 1720, is the oldest church in Chatham.
Reverend Marchio said he knows how important it is to all members of the Chatham community, and wants to make sure it is a part of the town for another 300 years.
“It’s an important marker and a very historically relevant part of our community,” he said.
“So, it’s just been thrilling for this congregation to see all the support both within the church family and within the wider community.”
The church looks to begin work next month in order to have the renovations completed by next June, which marks the 300th anniversary of its establishment.
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