News

Thanks to all who organized, held and attended our 227th Village Church annual meeting last Sunday after worship. If you missed it and would like to view the Zoom recording as well as links to the documents including the 2024 annual report, follow this link >

Comments from our moderators

Joseph Morray Church Moderator:

The year 2024 marked a season of growth, collaboration, and forward-thinking at Village Church. Central to our efforts was the bold step forward with the Empowering the Future capital campaign, which seeks to raise $4 million over three years to address key infrastructure needs and strengthen our mission. The campaign underscores our commitment to sustainability and outreach, uniting the congregation in a shared vision for a robust future.

Among other accomplishments, we continued the integration of the Weston campus into the greater Village Church community. The Weston campus, and its adjacent parsonage, have undergone both physical and administrative transformations to align with our shared mission. Together, these efforts affirm our commitment to faithful stewardship and the vibrant life of the church.

The successful merger was followed by deliberate efforts to align operational, financial, and cultural practices between the two campuses. Key highlights include:

• Interfaith Collaboration Center: Weston is now home to a thriving Interfaith Center. Under the leadership of Director Zachary Roe, the center fosters meaningful connections among diverse faith traditions​​.
• Financial Integration: Separate budgets for Weston were maintained for 2024, while administrative systems were merged to enhance efficiency. Full integration into a unified budget is planned for 2025​​.
• Cultural Integration: Efforts to bridge communities included joint events, shared ministries through the pastoral residency program, and collaborative leadership structures​.

These steps signify a deepening of relationships between the campuses, underscoring shared values and mission.

In conclusion, Village Church continues to be a vibrant and faithful community, boldly embracing opportunities to grow and serve. The Empowering the Future campaign and   HVAC project symbolizes our dedication to sustainability and long-term ministry. The integration of the Weston campus and improvements there further reflect our commitment to unity and stewardship.

Together, we are writing the next chapter of our church’s history, inspired by our mission to choose love and make it real. Let us move forward in faith, united in purpose and hope.

And now, looking back on this year, I am filled with gratitude for the privilege of serving as your moderator. The role allowed me to witness firsthand the faith, dedication, and generosity that makes the Village Church such a special place. As I step down, I do so with a deepened appreciation for our community and a sense of confidence in its future. Thank you for entrusting me with this responsibility and thank you for teaching me so much along the way.

Candace Sutcliffe, 2025 Incoming Church Moderator:

We have an exciting , ambitious year ahead . As you have heard from many speakers today , we are in the midst of our capital campaign to support the geothermal project, as well as ensuring the longevity of our superb youth programs , and all of our incredible ministries …. and we aim to do this while doing everything possible to stay within a balanced budget . I am grateful that we are a mission- driven people and I cherish our congregational values in which everyone has a voice . We are all in this together . We share a deep love of this church and every person here is committed to its welfare .

Lately I am sensing a high level of enthusiasm and excitement within WVC in Wellesley and in Weston. I hope you feel it as well . At the end of services people are chatting and greeting one another and is a VIBRANT atmosphere! I feel it whenever I enter the church … there is good good energy here . The Holy Spirit is definitely at work among us .

I was reflecting on this recently and it occurred to me that what I’m sensing is joy !! We actually use the word “joy” twice in our mission statement ….

We are called to pursue justice and joy for all people

And we live joyfully into our future together

It is my sincere hope that in this ambitious , busy year we can continue to cultivate joy – both when we are together here at WVC as well as in our lives away from church . Let’s hold each other accountable for that . … especially during challenging moments . Please hold me accountable ! We have our Mission Statement as our guide , and we have the support of the Holy Spirit …. we have each other.