First Congregational Church of Riverhead - Riverhead (NY)

5 /5 Antoinette Merenda Carbone: I’m not a member of this denomination but I am aware of their programs for those in need of clothes and household items. Also they do help also with a food program.

5 /5 Althea Travis: Sermon incorporates excellent biblical scholarship and delivery. Warm, friendly congregation. Community outreach programs include AA, meal support and others. Active thrift store open 3 days a week.

5 /5 William Hyer: I first attended in 1992 when Pastor Donna Schaper was at the helm. We were very involved in the community including helping at the soup kitchen. My specialty was chili, Italian-style. Ed Tuccio was supportive of the work we were doing which led to Vision 2020; what could Riverhead become (now a year away)? Downtown Riverhead was becoming a ghost town with high crime. We thought we could revitalize this part of town with a new dock on the river, better lighting to walk the sidewalks at night without fear of being mugged. We wanted restaurants on the river. When Swezeys Department Store left there was a decline that needed to be corrected. All of the revitalization efforts were spearheaded when the business community joined hands with Donna, Ed Tuccio, and those of us on the Board who shared this vision. The big challenge today is reaching out to the community who go to Tanger Outlets instead of honoring God on Sundays. This is a fine opportunity for First Congregational to increase their outreach beyond the thrift store and soup kitchen. I am glad they did not close up shop like so many downtown churches all around our country.

5 /5 Jerry Raustiala: Open and affirming community. Family and child centered. Lots of long-term faith and wisdom. Pastor is very engaging, funny and great with the kids. This is a sane, supportive , intelligent place to worship and serve Christ, lots of outreach, soup kitchen, thrift shop

5 /5 Barbara Considine: I am one of the people who prepares meals at the soup kitchen in this church. Giving back is what our lives should be about. I work with the nicest most caring people. The people we feed are our guest. Good feelings for all.