Welcome to Southport Congregational Church! We are a warm and welcoming community of people who want to encourage and cultivate the abundance of love, life, comfort, peace, health, joy and meaning that God desires for us all. We believe that each person is called by God to minister to one another and the world. We accomplish our mission through our worship, education and spiritual development for all ages, outreach to others in need, friendship and fellowship. As a church family, we welcome and value each person as individuals created in God’s image. We unite to share our faith and sense of wonder, joys and sorrows, hopes and dreams, love and support, in the manner of Jesus Christ, our Lord, our Savior and our guide.
Worship
Our worship services are on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. On the first Sunday of every month, we celebrate the sacrament of communion. Our services are uplifting and celebrate all the joys in our lives, incorporating Scripture, Prayer, Music, Education and Spiritual Guidance.
MEET OUR STAFF
The Reverend Paul D. Whitmore
Paul came to this church in March of 1995. He is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and Andover Newton Theological School. Prior to coming to Southport, he served as the Associate Minister at First Congregational Church in Bristol, CT. Paul is a wonderfully compassionate spiritual leader, who cares for the minds, bodies and souls of our congregation. Paul is married to Laura Whitmore and they have four children. He is an avid tennis player, runner, singer and guitarist.
The Reverend Sharon P. Blackburn
Upon her retirement from the ministry, Sharon and her husband, David, joined the Southport Congregational Church. Before long, it was evident that God had other plans for Sharon rather than retirement. In 2004, she joined our staff to assist Paul with Pastoral Care and Adult Education. A graduate of Yale Divinity School, Sharon has served numerous other churches, including Plymouth Congregational Church of the Pilgrims in Brooklyn, NY - the former pulpit of Henry Ward Beecher.
The Reverend Laura H. Whitmore
Up until December, 1994, Laura served as the Associate Minister at the Congregational Church of Naugatuck, CT. When Paul and the family moved to Southport, Laura was able to stay at home with their children. In 2003, Laura was called as the Minister of Christian Education and Youth. Under her leadership, the Church School has continued to grow and develop, changing with the needs of the community while providing a strong Christian foundation for our children and youth. Laura is an avid tennis player, serves as Chairman of the Board of Simply Smiles, is a former PTA President, Boy Scout Leader, Cub Scout Leader nd Girl Scout Leader and is very involved in community programs and outreach.
Click here for Laura and Paul’s Blog on their trip to Israel