First Baptist Church is a small church, part of the American Baptist Churches USA denomination…read more(http://www.abc-usa.org/) in the hills of Shelton, CT. It is pastored by Reverend Ken Smith. I visited the church's morning service on November 22, 2009. The service began at 10:30 AM and ended promptly at 11:30 AM. There is a "coffee fellowship time" after the service which I was not able to attend. First Baptist church is a small church - capacity for about 198 people, there were about 45 attenders the service I was there. The people are very friendly, going out of their way to seek out visitors after the service. The dress is business casual - ranging from button-up shirts to suits an ties The worship style is traditional, although there is a small part of the service in which worship choruses are sung. The church had a community feel with members speaking up during announcements, and being encouraged to chime in at designated times during the congregational prayer. The pastor's sermon was topical, somewhat wandering, and drawn from both an Old Testament and a New Testament passage that was read in full. While the congregational age ranged from about 30 to over 80, but definitely leaned toward the senior citizen range. Overall, it was a pleasant worship experience. This traditional church was warm and inviting.

My wife and I have been attending this church often, although we have retained our membership in…read morethe church where we've been members for many years. We like the friendliness of the members and pastor, and feel spiritually nourished each time we go. Like many small churches, First Baptist is changing as younger families become members, and the desires for the worship format evolve. We love the church because of its strong commitment to the community and to the greater world community. Outreach programs not only reach the homeless and those seeking to conquer addictions, but help bring medical aid to other countries, and financial and work relief to areas in this country devastated by natural disasters suc as hurricane Katrina. The church is inclusive and welcoming, and the pastor brings the word to the congregation based on sound theology and a loving concern for all.

Where do I begin? I'll start, as does our pastor with the triumphant trumpet fanfare (and lots of…read moreincense) which announces his entrance. There's nothing that means church more than a truly impressive royal arrival. I'm sure that thousands of parishoner dollars were spent on a major renovation of the sanctuary, which now includes statutes, a large golden sunburst and an immense surround for the crucifixion, but of course it was needed emphasize the importance of those who bless us (see above). Unfortunately, I haven't seen a female altar server in years, although the website says they are eligible to apply. Oh well, girls, apparently the golden sunburst won't shine on you. The choral music is professional (i.e. probably paid for), loud and never leaves a moment of silence, and along with the pastor's long, extended prayers has the elderly and infirm standing for about 10 -15 minutes without respite. I saw one elderly man give up with a large 'plop' on the wooden pew, and I considered doing the same. Did I mention I have back issues? We seniors all barely made it without crashing. If anyone has breathing issues, the addition of the constant smoky incense just adds to the discomfort. In fact, all portions of the service which involve standing have been extended to the max. I began to feel it was a control issue, and the parishoners are the constrained. An 11:00 a.m. service I attended this weekend, the music only involved a choir who seemed to sing in an unknown language during every available moment. They did sound angelic, but I wonder what kind of dent it takes out of the budget. It also overwhelmed the possibility of silent prayer, participation or joy. Their social outreach seems to be a lonely box for canned goods and toys around Christmas and a "social justice group" that prays for it. I know of a church in Westport who have a large program; feeding the homeless, adopting inner city schools, ministries, and a folk cafe to gather in. St. Catherine's has a rosary making group and a social group for seniors. St. Catherine's prayer/meditation group went kaput after the last pastor, but at least they have a nice website. Our good pastor said he will offer prayers for those who are ineligible to receive the eucharist. Who was he talking about? The pro-choice? The divorced? Me? I'm both! What ever happened to mercy and forgiveness and parishoners as church? Guess we'll have to drive to Westport if we want that.

The clergy (and staff) at this parish work tirelessly to ensure that my fellow parishioners and I…read morehave everything we need to become saints, conformed to the image of Christ. Whether you live close enough to attend daily Mass or are reading this from halfway around the world, this parish is worth the trip.

This is one of the best churches I've visited. The sermons are expository and the Bible studies are…read morediscussion-based. Everyone is extremely welcoming. The pastor is straightforward, respectful, and makes time to speak to visitors/members. I definitely recommend visiting! (Reminder: there is no perfect church, so do not search for one. The most important thing is a church with Christ and the Bible at the center of everything)

This is a great church in Milford. Wonderful pastor, solid bible-based teaching. Excellent youth…read moredirector and wife, they have great programs and activities for children and youth. There is a new youth center with lots of space and facilities. Highly recommended!

This is the most loving church you may ever encounter. Fantastic contemporary worship,…read moredown-to-earth relatable pastor and some really great teachings from many of the seasoned members. Pre-pandemic, I enjoyed the in-person Bible study, prayer times, men's fellowship, monthly fellowship breakfasts/luncheons and regular worship Sunday services. Like everything else, they are still meeting via Zoom, but should soon be back to normal. Go with an open heart and open mind and receive the blessing that awaits you.

Sanctuary is the 6pm Sunday Evening service and young adult ministry of Black Rock Congregational…read moreChurch. It is primarily a gathering of People 18-35, but all who wish to experience God are welcome to attend! It is a unique church community. No matter who you are or where you come from, you will be welcome with arms wide open by everyone. Sanctuary is a place where you can be yourself without fearing the judgement of others; a place where you find people who care for you. Not only you will meet new people, but you will grow spiritually. Sanctuary is an open space for you to discover who you are and who God is. A journey to grow with Jesus! We gather from 6-7:30pm so come down and experience it for yourself. I assure you, you will love it! Check out the facebook page as well https://www.facebook.com/wearesanctuary

Love this Church. They do so much for the community, great music and sermons that touch your heart…read moreand soul. Here is their web site: www.brcc.org They have a job networking group (1st Tuesday evening of every month 7-8pm ), a divorce care group (that meets every Tuesdays at 7:30pm) and a huge teen and college group (that meets at 6pm on Sunday to worship with rock music). In the Fall 2009 they have a Saturday night dinner $5 donation (after the 5:30pm service). God Bless

There are few churches left that really care, and Haven of Rest is one of them!…read more Pastor Goodall along with his wife Linda go above and beyond to teach, reach out, and bless others. I've been going to this church for over 10 years and am so thankful for the friendships, doctrine, love, truth and realness shown everytime I walk through the doors.

Such a beautiful old church in lordship, Stratford, CT…read moreWelcoming conservative congregation of volunteer. Great music and lots to do. Local people can preach the good news to all.

I have been watching Vox Church for a couple of months and decided to attend a service. I loved…read more It. There is nothing like a in person service. I had no problem finding free parking. The church staff was friendly and the venue was great. Also as always, a fantastic service. Love the music and the sermon. They also provided coffee, lemon aid, cold water. At the end on your way out they also had hot popcorn.

We were visiting from out of town and so happy we did. The parking is easy if you park at Crown…read morestreet garage, it's right across from the Music hall where Vox church is located. Look for the VOX sign and the person and he will give you a ticket for validated parking. The kids church was efficient and easy to check in with such welcoming child's ministry staff. We loved the worship and message and felt spiritually refreshed! If we lived here, we would definitely be calling it our home church.