The First Congregational Church at 165 Main Street is one of the oldest structures in the Dickinson Local Historic District and is closely associated with the family and legacy of Emily Dickinson. The building is a major presence in the historic environs of the Dickinson Homestead and Evergreens. The greatest risk to preserving this historic structure used by church members and the public is fire, as there is at present no automatic fire sprinkler system. As the main building is timber-framed and lacks fire walls, any fire would spread rapidly, be difficult to fight, and would likely cause irrevocable damage leading to demolition. This is a part of a larger renovation project including an elevator, electrical and restroom upgrades. The church is used by the public for a preschool, meetings such as Alcoholics Anonymous, and Not Bread Alone food program.