How We're Organized

... and Why It Matters

As part of the United Church of Christ (UCC), we believe Christ is the head of the Church, and that decisions about church life are made best when the people of the congregation are involved. In other words, we’re not run from “the top down.” We’re a congregational church, which means local churches guide their own ministry and leadership, in covenant (shared commitment) with other churches.

The Bigger UCC Picture

• Local Church: That’s us, MCC! We make our own decisions about worship, budget, ministry, and leadership through our congregation and elected lay leaders.

• Association: Local UCC churches in a region work together in an Association, which helps support churches and oversees ministerial standing. We belong to the Fairfield East Association, along with 22 other UCC churches.

• Conference: Associations are part of a larger Conference, which supports broader ministry and mission across the state/region. We belong to the Southern New England Conference, with approximately 570 other UCC churches.

• General Synod: Every two years, representatives from across the UCC's 4,603 congregations gather at General Synod to discern and vote on statements and resolutions that reflect the voice of the church (they guide us, but they don’t “rule” local congregations).

Leadership at MCC

MCC is led by a strong team of lay members, with about 80 volunteers serving on boards and committees, nominated and elected at our Annual Meeting. Most boards and committees meet monthly, and their chairs coordinate work together through a monthly council meeting with other leaders and the pastors.

• Deacons: Help guide the spiritual life of the church, especially worship. With the Pastor, they support everyone who helps lead worship, musicians, greeters, ushers, readers, and more. They also help welcome new members and spiritually care for our community.

• Trustees: Oversee the finances and property of the church. They manage budgeting and fundraising, supervise financial officers, and help care for our buildings and grounds.

• Christian Education: Supports faith formation for all ages, including Church School, youth groups and adult education.

• Outreach: Helps us serve our neighbors near and far through hands-on mission projects, financial giving, and educational opportunities that put our faith into action.

• Fellowship: This board helps build community by creating opportunities for connection, like special coffee hours, Homecoming Picnic, and other special events that bring people together.