Christ Church Swansea gathers at 57 Main Street in Swansea, Massachusetts, where it functions as one of the town's Episcopal parishes under the leadership of The Reverend Faith M. Mbuthia, Priest-In-Charge. The church's tagline sets the tone: "We are a joyful community celebrating Jesus Christ. Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, you are welcome here." From Sunday worship to a Monday evening chair yoga class, the parish uses both its sanctuary and the adjacent Parish House to keep its doors open throughout the week.
Sundays on Main Street
Sunday begins at 8:30 AM with worship led by the Priest-In-Charge and Music Director Al Deston. The gathering is set out as a time for the congregation to "pray and promote peace," cultivating compassion through shared moments of reflection and harmony. The parish invites everyone - members, newcomers, and the simply curious - to participate in the service.
Children and teens gather at 8:45 AM for Sunday School, joining age-appropriate classes where they explore faith and friendship through activities and discussion that strengthen their bonds with one another. The two programs are scheduled so families can be on the property at the same time.
Chair Yoga at the Parish House
On Mondays at 6:00 PM, the doors of the Christ Church Parish House open for chair yoga. The session offers a healthy way to center the mind and set intentions for self-care, and is followed by a meal shared with neighbors and friends.
The class is open to anyone in the community regardless of church membership, and it stands as one of the most visible ways the parish extends beyond Sunday morning. A Saturday class is also offered when interest allows.
Outreach and the Veteran's Breakfast
Christ Church Swansea organizes its service to neighbors through standing committees. The Outreach ministry, chaired by Terry Rancourt, focuses on supporting those in need within Swansea. A long-running tradition is the Veteran's Breakfast, chaired by Dave McCarthy, which gathers local veterans around a shared meal.
At the wider Episcopal Church's life, the parish sends Convention Delegates Julie Sanders and Jennifer Valiente to represent Christ Church Swansea, with Jennifer Valiente also serving as representative to the Mt. Hope Deanery. Property and grounds, including the parish cemetery, are overseen by Ted Yates.
Music and Pastoral Care
Music at Sunday worship is supported by Music Director Al Deston, who prepares and leads the congregation's sung prayer throughout the year.
Pastoral emergencies are answered by The Reverend Mbuthia through a dedicated phone line, and the parish office is open Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 10 AM to 3 PM, with messages checked daily. Office Manager Sue Correira keeps the weekday rhythm running, while Sexton Tony Melo cares for the buildings and grounds.
A Vestry-Led Parish
Day-to-day governance rests with a vestry co-chaired by Co-wardens Jennifer Valiente and David McCarthy, supported by Treasurer Sue Sheppard and Clerk Sandra Grace. Vestry members Leslie Buxton, Judi DeMello, Christina Peterson, and Richard Salve complete the body. A search committee, chaired by Shirley Stasiowski, supports the parish between settled clergy seasons. The structure keeps the small congregation actively engaged in ministry and mutual care.
Mission and Welcome
Christ Church Swansea describes itself as a "joyful community celebrating Jesus Christ," welcoming people wherever they are on their spiritual journey. The parish's stated mission is to provide support, guidance, and a space for spiritual growth through personal connections, shared faith, and walking alongside one another through life's journey. The parish invites newcomers to share their stories and grow in faith and fellowship together.
Visiting Christ Church Swansea
Christ Church Swansea sits at 57 Main Street in Swansea, Massachusetts, with parking available on site. Sunday worship begins at 8:30 AM, and Sunday School for children and teens begins at 8:45. The Parish House, on the same property, hosts the Monday evening chair yoga class. Visitors are welcome to come as they are, attend Sunday worship, and introduce themselves to the Priest-In-Charge.
The parish office, reachable at (508) 678-0923, is also happy to answer questions during Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings and afternoons.