WINTHROP — The historic Winthrop Congregational Church (United Church of Christ) is in the midst of its largest renovation project in more than 40 years, including restoring and protecting the church’s bell tower and steeple, a visible fixture in downtown Winthrop.

At present, the congregation has raised 70 percent of the funds needed to complete the building updates.

Community members are encouraged to support the project, which will repair the weather-beaten steeple and address leaks that could damage the Bowdoin Street building. The congregation also will replace the church roof, repair the sanctuary and renovate and update the main entrance way.

Tax-deductible donations can be made through the church website, wccucc.org (click on the “Help Us Serve” button) or can be mailed to Winthrop Congregational Church, 10 Bowdoin St., Winthrop ME 04364.

The congregation invites community members and visitors to attend Sunday services, which begin at 10 a.m.

All are welcome to participate in worship, fellowship and leadership

Founded in 1776, the church has deep roots in downtown Winthrop, starting as a small parish that met in a local tavern, the Squire Bishop’s Inn. The church moved to its current location at Bowdoin and Main streets in 1905.

Winthrop Congregational Church is undergoing renovations.