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.

Meet our staff

The Reverend Paul D. Whitmore

Paul is a wonderfully compassionate spiritual leader, who cares for the minds, bodies and souls of our congregation. Since he began his leadership in 1994, Southport Congregational Church has experienced vibrant growth in all areas of its ministry and mission.  Paul's Sunday messages are inspirational, thought provoking, biblically based and spiritaully enriching.  Paul is married to Laura Whitmore (our Minister of Christian Education and Youth) and they have four children. He is an avid tennis player, marathon 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

Laura is a minister who is gifted with working with children.  Like the pied piper, children are drawn to her and her vivacious personality.  Dedicated to bringing opportunities for children and youth to serve the world, Laura engages the children in social, moral and Christian responsibility.  Under her leadership, the Church School has grown from 60 children to over 200.  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 and Girl Scout Leader and is very involved in community programs  and outreach.