The Niantic Community Church traces its roots back to the Colonial days, as it was originally founded in 1719. Today it is a federated congregation of the United Methodist Church and the United Church of Christ. The beautiful white building hosts a variety of services and community activities, helping the congregation to continue its rich tradition.
Cornerstone Baptist Church pulls no punches when it comes to public declaration of its mission.
"Jesus Christ... the Chief Cornerstone," one sign declares. "Prepare to Meet Thy God," says another.
The church is nestled beside the Camp Oakdale Pavilion on Route 163. Its two wings border a large parking lot, with steps leading up to one level of the church; a handicapped ramp leads to a lower level.
This Episcopal church serves congregation members from Durham and the surrounding communities. Church of The Epiphany has roots in the town dating back to the late 1700s. The current church was consecrated in 1863. The church is now an independent Episcopal parish. Epiphany teaches tolerance, and offers a range of programs aimed at giving back to the community. Sunday services are held at 9:30am and 10:45am.
The massive and stately stone of the Christ Episcopal Church has overlooked the Guilford Green for more than 250 years. It houses an active congregation that meets for regular Sunday worship as well as other special services. The church also holds special events including an annual Children's Christmas Pageant and publishes a quarterly newsletter.
The Cheshire United Methodist Church building on Academy Road was constructed in 1970 with an addition of a formal sanctuary completed in 1987. The history of the church, however, begins much earlier - in the 1830s. The original building on Spring and Main Streets was built at that time, for a cost of about $3,000.
That building now houses the Temple Beth David Synagogue.
Founded in 1958, the Bethel Assembly of God remains a vibrant spiritual community. Services are held on Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. A variety of ministries focusing on distinct age and interest groups are available, including the Royal Rangers for young boys. The church also sponsors special missions which send adults to the far corners of the world.
The congregation of this multigenerational United Church of Christ prides itself on helping the less fortunate in the community and worldwide and is very active in church groups and charities. The pastor and members follow the teachings of Jesus Christ and welcome those of all faiths and denominations, wherever they are in their spiritual journey.
St. Patrick Church's parish mission statement is: "Called together by God to experience Jesus in His Word, in the Sacraments of the Church and in each other. We are committed to embrace all God's people as witnesses of God's mercy." The clergy is led by Rev. Water Nagle and the congregation has more than 1,400 household members.
This small Christian academy has grown from four students in 2007 to 81 in 2010. Affiliated with the Meriden Baptist Church, MidState takes students ages 3 through 18 of all faiths from Meriden and the surrounding towns. Meriden students are picked up by bus, and other students must be driven to the school. Tuition is $3,000 per year, but discounts are available for church members and families with multiple children enrolled.
St. Ann Melkite Catholic Church is located near Regal Cinemas on the Cross Roads. This Greek Catholic church is open every day, from 6:30am through nighttime, for open prayer. Divine Liturgy is held on Saturday at 5pm and Sunday at 10am. A gift shop carrying religious items is on site.