Courtney Hatheway
Children’s Ministry Leader
Courtney Hatheway has been a member of First Parish Congregational Church since moving to Wakefield in 2002. She and her husband, Mark, have four children—Rachel, Jayna, Lilah, and Ben—who keep their home full of energy and joy.
As the Children’s Ministry Leader, Courtney is passionate about teaching children about God in ways that connect with their age and stage of life. She ensures lessons are engaging, meaningful, and rooted in faith. Her fun and creative spirit shines through in everything she does, making Sunday School a place where kids feel excited to learn and grow.
In addition to her work at FPCC, Courtney recently began teaching Kindergarten and First Grade at Grace Prep in Wakefield. Her heart for children and her gifts as a teacher continue to bless both the church and the wider community.
Julie Foster
Youth Ministry Leader
Believing that the family is a fundamental spiritual unit, Julie seeks to get families connected to each other, the church, and to Christ. She works to help children and families grow spiritually and form a solid foundation in Jesus. She recognizes that gaining and maintaining this foundation is needed now more than ever, and that this can be achieved much more successfully with the support of a strong Christian community.
Julie is originally from Colorado where she loved going hiking, she loves writing novels that she hopes to one day publish, is the aunt to an adorable niece and nephew, and loves playing volleyball!
A former nanny and creative writing teacher, Julie has worked with children for many years. She began working with the First Parish youth group in 2018 before her role expanded to include children, youth, and families in 2023. Julie received her BA in English Language & Literature from Southern New Hampshire University.
Sunday School
At Sunday School, children explore God’s Word through engaging lessons, crafts, and activities that bring each week’s worship theme to life. Classes are designed to inspire and nurture faith in children of all ages, from infants to middle schoolers.
Classroom Breakdown:
- Infants & Toddlers: Our team of teachers provide caring supervision and engaging activities with a wide variety of toys and books.
- Preschool–Kindergarten: Fun and interactive lessons that introduce God’s love and foundational Bible stories.
- Grades 1–5: Hands-on activities and in-depth discussions tailored to young learners as they grow in their faith.
- Middle School (Grades 6–8): A welcoming space for preteens to connect, ask questions, and deepen their understanding of God’s Word.
Small Groups
Our 180 Wednesdays have transitioned into small group Bible studies that meet in homes throughout the community once a week. Each group focuses on a different Bible study and is organized by age and stage of life—including groups for young parents, young adults, and older generations.
These gatherings offer a relaxed environment for connection, discussion, and spiritual growth. Most groups enjoy snacks and fellowship, and childcare is coordinated for families with young children.
Contact the church to find a group!
Youth Group
At FPCC Youth, we’re dedicated to building a Christ-centered community during these important years of growth. Students in grades 6–12 gather every Thursday night from 6:30–8:30 PM for an evening filled with games, fellowship, and meaningful small group lessons that speak directly to their lives and faith journeys.
Come be part of a group where friendships are formed, faith is strengthened, and Christ is at the center of it all!
Family Fellowship
Join us for Family Fellowship, our monthly gatherings designed for families with school-aged or younger children! These events are all about connection, community, and seasonal fun. Enjoy activities like apple picking, pumpkin painting, Christmas cookie decorating, crafts, and so much more!
Come make lasting memories and meaningful connections with other families in a welcoming and joyful environment.