763 Deering Center Rd, Deering, NH 03244
(603) 464-5643
Who We Are
Our congregation reflects the rich tapestry of Deering life. Some of us grew up here, walking these same aisles our grandparents walked. Others discovered us after moving to town, drawn by the warmth and welcome. We come from different faith backgrounds: Catholic, Lutheran, Episcopal, and those exploring spirituality for the first time.
We're united by a shared commitment to living out Christ's teaching through action, justice, genuine welcome, and unconditional love.
Rev. Karen Landry
Pastor & Spiritual Guide
MDIV, Andover Newton Theological School, Masters of Divinity
AS, N.H. Technical Institute, Mechanical Engineering Technology
Rev. Karen believes that ‘no matter who you are, or where you are, on your spiritual journey, you are welcome’ at the Deering Community Church. She began her journey at the Atkinson Community Church, where she raised her children.
Rev. Karen is originally from a small town in southern New Hampshire. After living in various towns and cities in New Hampshire, she currently lives in Manchester. She is currently married and has five children and six grandchildren.
Rev. Karen enjoys going to minor league baseball games, hockey games, going to the theatre, especially musicals, entertaining at home, animals, cooking, baking, sewing, organizing activities. She enjoys being with people.
Our Church Leadership
Rev. Karen Landry
Pastor
Ali Burkhamer
Administrator Assistant
Lucinda Ellert
Music Director
Tim Ferwerda
Moderator
Peter Cram
Treasurer/Financial Secretary
Kristina Fedolfi
Custodian
Chris Nase
Church Clerk
(To Be Determined)
Archivist
Ministry Coordinators
Bryan Terry (temporary)
Christian Education Ministry
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Peg Hauschildt
Deacon Ministry
Lucinda Ellert
Music Ministry
Chris Nase
Outreach Ministry
Peg Hauschildt
Pastor Parish Relations Ministry
Tim Ferwerda
Resource Ministry
Glenice L’Heureux
Deering Meditation and Memory Garden
What We Believe
We are united by our promises to each other and to God, not by demanding everyone think exactly alike
We follow the United Church of Christ Statement of Faith, which expresses our understanding of God's love made known in Jesus Christ
We read the Bible seriously, seeking its deeper truths rather than always taking it literally
We believe God's revelation continues today and isn't limited to ancient texts
We believe justice work is spiritual work
We express Christianity through service, not superiority
We're committed to interfaith dialogue and respect
You don't have to agree with everything to belong here. We'd rather journey together with our differences than demand uniformity.
Over 235 Years of Faith
Nine men on horseback gathered at Thomas Merrill's colonial house to found the Deering Congregational Church. Their covenant still guides us: "To walk in love towards others, endeavoring ye mutually edification in visiting, exhorting, & comforting, as occasion serves."
1789
After years of sharing space in the town meetinghouse, the congregation built the beautiful sanctuary where we still worship. Families bought pews—you can still see their names on small plaques on the pew doors.
1829
For 65 years, we had no full-time minister. As farming families left for cities and factories, membership dwindled to just three people. But Deering women—especially Esther Ellsworth and later the Holmes sisters—kept the doors open and the faith alive.
1874 - 1939
Dr. Eleanor Campbell and a summer colony of ministers and theologians breathed new life into the church. Distinguished preachers filled the sanctuary, and locals and summer folks built community together.
1927
Rev. Charles Reidt became our second successive full-time minister, teaching Sunday School to teenagers and opening the church for basketball. The church was becoming a community hub again.
1946 - 1954
Led by Anne and Carleton Sherwood, we added Sherwood Hall—a fellowship space, kitchen, and offices that transformed how we could serve our community.
1964
Rev. Stanley Keach served longer than any pastor in our history, growing membership to 125—our largest ever. Stan challenged us to think deeply, act justly, and stay curious about faith.
1982-1996
After a year of discernment, we voted to become an Open and Affirming congregation, explicitly welcoming LGBTQ+ individuals and families. It wasn't just a vote—it was a declaration of who we've always tried to be.
2003
We're about 25 people carrying forward 235 years of faith. We support local families, send supplies to Zimbabwe, host free community breakfasts, and maintain a meditation garden open to all. We're proof that you don't need a crowd to make a difference.
Today
Questions About Us
Absolutely not. Everyone is welcome to participate in worship and any of our activities and events. We invite you to consider membership if/when, you're ready.
Help with the community breakfast, join the choir or handbells, tend the garden, volunteer on workdays are some examples of how to get involved. Talk to Pastor Karen or any church member.
We're a theologically progressive congregation. We don't expect political uniformity, but we do ask for kindness and respect for all.
As a Congregational church, our members vote on major decisions at church meetings. Our Church Council handles day-to-day operations. Every voice matters.
Let's Connect
Questions about visiting? Interested in getting involved? Just want to say hello? We'd love to hear from you. Whether you're exploring faith for the first time, looking for a church home, or seeking a community that values justice and welcome, reach out. We're here.