UNCONFIRMED DONOR AND HONOREE LIST FROM OUR HISTORICAL CALENDAR

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As we start the new church season we also start a new flower memorial season. The following list was created not only to help members identify the remembrances they wish to continue but also to suggest dates that others might wish to consider. As in the past a donation is requested.  The suggested donation is $40. Please call the church office (331-1960) to confirm or to initiate your request(s).

CentralNEWS/September 2010

VOLUME 18 NUMBER 8
296 Angell Street Providence RI 02906 401-331-1960

FROM YOUR SENIOR MINISTER

The last few days of rain and more rain have been a welcome respite from the gorgeous clear and sunny days of most of the summer. I can literally see my two new elm trees (2 out of 5 sprouted from seed!) growing side branches.
I hope they are indeed disease resistant, but only time will tell. I take a morning walk with coffee cup in hand and dogs underfoot and we survey the greening, even though I know in a few months all will take their winter naps. Since there is still a light mist, I don’t feel guilty about not weeding, and I think maybe I can finish another book today!

Summertime of vacation or sabbatical or just a different routine from the rest of the year is such a perfect time to contemplate our lives… what we have done, where we are going. Then September comes and even if you aren’t going back to school, you can sense a new rhythm in your days. Maybe we should even make fall resolutions rather than New Year’s ones. For at the end of November comes the Christian new year, the first Sunday of Advent.
One of the books that I did indeed finish this summer and one that has stayed with me, and from which I have quoted to many of you already is the wonderful new biography of Dietrich Bonhoeffer by Eric Metaxas. For this beginning of our church year together, I wanted to share this excerpt from Bonhoeffer’s letters.

“When the confusion of accusations and excuses, of desires and fears, makes everything with us so obscure, God sees quite clearly into all our secrets. And at the heart of them all, God finds a name which God has already inscribed: Jesus Christ. So too one day we shall see quite clearly into the depths of the divine heart and there we shall then be able to read, no, to see, a name: Jesus Christ. So we would celebrate Sunday. One day we shall know and see what today we believe; one day we shall hold a service together in eternity…”

Then, this poem.

The beginning and the end, O Lord, are Thine,
The span between, life, was mine.
I wandered in the darkness and did not discover
myself,
With Thee, O Lord, is clarity, and light is Thy
house.
A short time only, and all is done;
Then the whole struggle dies away to nothing.
Then I will refresh myself by the waters of life,
And will talk with Jesus forever and ever.

Bonhoeffer’s writing makes me contemplate my days more clearly….As I walk I reflect on God’s creation differently. I seem to find new ways to put my life into a longer and deeper context. I look forward to seeing all of you in a new light when I return to our beloved sanctuary for worship together. And in these glorious green and golden days, I pray for your lives too, to be refreshed and enlightened by the One whom one day we will know and in whom now we believe.

With great affection,

Rebecca

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of….

Hamilton Davison – His mother, Lessie Davison, died on July 16.

Thomas Reed, member of our permanent diaconate, who died on July 21.

New Members

New Member Orientation*
Tuesday, October 26

Faith Exploration*
Wednesday, November 3

New Member Sunday
November 7

*These meetings are held
at the home of The Rev. Rebecca Spencer
15 Taber Avenue at 7 p.m.

Baptism

The Sacrament of Baptism is an important part of our worship life together. In an effort to uplift our celebration of Baptisms in our community of faith, we will be offering Baptisms during the following Sundays of the church year.

Children’s Sabbath October 17, 2010
Sunday after Epiphany January 9, 2011
Sunday after Easter May 1, 2011

Meetings to prepare parents for Baptism will be held in our Fireplace Room at 9 am on the Saturday of the preceding week. Please speak with The Rev. Rebecca Spencer if you would like to be included in this very important part of life at Central–The Sacrament of Baptism.

GATHERING SUNDAY

September 12th, 10:30 am worship service
The Rev. Rebecca Spencer preaching

From Claudia

Next month I hope to begin an incredible journey with all of you. In the August newsletter I talked a little bit about my doctoral project which basically asks the question: What happens when an entire congregation takes on an intergenerational educational process on a specific topic?
Now, intergenerational learning is a hallmark of Christian churches and Central is no exception. From our wonderful Church School through our youth through the most “senior” amongst us we are embarked as a community in learning about our faith and who we are as Christian people. Most importantly, we learn together in community about who God is. We don’t necessarily have the same perspectives, but we have a common goal—to be faithful and faith-filled people.

I thought long and hard about how we could enter an educational process on Islam—certainly a timely subject in light of all that is happening in our world today! I realized that I didn’t have to “reinvent the wheel.” We already have many groups in place that are diverse in terms of age and constituency.

Therefore I am proposing to my doctoral “readers” that we utilize our existing groups with the occasional formation of ad hoc groups. In this way there really should be something for everyone! In this way our learning will be like a spiral. If you attend all the different offerings you will have a big overview of the topic. If you attend only a few you will have learned more about one or two specific areas of Islam. It’s an opportunity to consider what our neighbors believe and through that learning opportunity to explore what WE believe.

Most of you know that I was a teacher for most of my professional life before my ordination. What I have in mind are setting up multiple learning communities which may or may not overlap. As we learn together about Muhammad and Islam part of our process is the actual experience of learning in community together!

One of my favorite quotes is “Education is not the filling of a pail but the lighting of a fire” (William Butler Yeats). Lighting the fire to learn more about our own faith and the faith of others is my larger goal. You’ve probably figured out that I am a life-long learner. I have a curiosity about…well, almost everything! I hope that like Michelangelo, I will always be able to say, “Ancora imparo” which is usually translated as “I am still learning.” By the way, Michelangelo was a mere 87 years old when he said this! May it be so for all of us…

Yours in Faith,

Claudia

From Kat

Welcome back and welcome home! This has been an exciting and busy summer for our church family!

I recently had the privilege of working with many of our youngest members during the Vacation Bible School program. We shared the story of Jonah through music, worship, outside games, art, drama, and fellowship. This week was put together in collaboration with Cathy Clasper-Torch, Claudia Demick, Andy Mazurkie, Eileen Medeiros, Amy Frazer, Karen Hopkinson, Nancy Jacobs, and Lindsay Farina. Royce, Ben, Amelia, Anna, Jack, Josiah, Madison, Emily, and Hannah also lent their energy, leadership, and creativity to what turned out to be an incredibly Spirit-filled week!

Another close-of-summer adventure was the youth trip to New Hampshire to see Skillet and Creed live in concert. We managed to arrive at the venue with plenty of time to get prime seats on the “Energy Lawn,” where we set up our lawn chairs and blankets. Jia even brought neon hair gel for those of us who wanted hot pink rocker streaks in our hair!

I think that when the Israelites experienced God speaking to them in thunder, lightning and fire from the mountain, it maybe felt a little like a Skillet concert. If you haven’t seen or heard Skillet–imagine the most hard-core heavy metal or rock band you can think of; then imagine them putting on a show with fire, smoke, and special effects; then imagine them stopping between sets and talking about their faith in God. The lead singer’s call for us to live into our call as Christians was particularly moving. Needless to say, the weekend with Skillet and our youth was a powerful God experience!

Energized by the summer, I’m looking forward to the start of Fall programs. This year, in addition to kicking off our youth confirmation program, we’ll also be offering a Monday-night adult confirmation program starting in October. The adult program is for members and non-members alike who are interested in learning more about their faith, the church, the Bible, and themselves. We also have a solid line-up of youth events that will start with a kick-off barbeque at my house on September 12.

Welcome home,

Kat

Rebecca’s Noon Book Group . . .

Empire of Liberty by Gordon Wood will be discussed on Thursday, September 30. All are invited to join this lively group.

MUSIC AT CENTRAL

NEW CHOIR MEMBERS WELCOME!

The Adult Choir meets Thursday evenings from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. beginning September 16. We sing weekly on Sunday mornings starting with a 9:15 a.m. warm-up, some experience is helpful, but we welcome everyone to come try us out!

The Children’s Choir rehearses weekly at 5 p.m. on Mondays beginning September 20. The Children’s Choir also sings weekly on Sundays beginning at 10 a.m. for a warm-up.
No experience is needed, and the choir is open to children entering grades 3 – 8.

FAITH, FELLOWSHIP, AND FUN

A Central Church Retreat for People of All Ages!
Friday through Sunday, Sept. 17, 18, & 19

Looking for a bargain!? Then, look no further. Imagine spending a weekend on Cape Cod with all-inclusive food and lodging PLUS the company of friends from your own church! Imagine all this, with the chance to grow in your faith and experience refreshment and renewal.
Come alone or bring a friend or family member(s). Our Central Congregational Church retreat weekend is reserved at the beautiful Craigville Conference Center. All that is needed to make it complete is—YOU!!

Cost: $175 for adults, $135 for youths, children under 6 are free! (Price includes all meals and our lodging.) Please let Claudia know if you are planning to attend this special retreat. Space is limited and we need to give the Conference Center a firm number.

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS

Sunday, September 26

Many Christian churches participate in a ritual known as the Blessing of the Animals which is held on or near the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi. He began life as the son of a wealthy merchant in Italy. In 1206 he renounced his family’s wealth and started a new life ministering to the poor. Following the Gospel’s teachings, he lived in poverty and preached simplicity and humility. St. Francis believed that all the creatures of the earth were his family. He is said to have preached to anyone who would listen, including the birds. It is for this reason that statues of St. Francis often depict him with birds.
For us the ritual of the Blessing of the Animals marks not only a remembrance of the teachings of St. Francis, but also a respectful recognition of the pets in our lives. This service is a reminder of God’s love through the love we give and receive from our pets.

AUTUMN IS FOR POETS!

The Poets Page needs poems and stories on the following topic:

“A Place I Love”

It is time to let your imagination fly high! Please respond to poetlaureate@centralchurch.us

For publication we would also need a very brief bio and a photo.

CHURCH SCHOOL NEWS!

Greetings, Parents of Church Schoolers!

We’ve just finished a fun and full week of Vacation Bible School, with close to 50 children, engaging in the Story of Jonah through music, art, drama and play. Thank you to all of you who participated this year! VBS is a great way for us to get to know your children much more deeply and fully, and get to know a Bible story in-depth. A huge thank you to the parent volunteers and youth helpers we had!! We couldn’t have done it without you!!

Please mark your calendars for GATHERING SUNDAY, September 12th, when CHURCH SCHOOL BEGINS!!

As usual, we kick off the morning a ‘gathering meeting’ at 9:30 a.m. for ALL PARENTS/ TEACHERS/CHILDREN in the 2nd floor Gathering Space. This brief meeting is a chance for you to meet staff and teachers and to hear about the various children’s programs here at Central, from Church School, to choirs, to youth groups, etc. Breakfast munchies are provided by the Religious Education Committee.

Church School Registration forms will be mailed out to you in early Sept–Please bring them back on Gathering Sunday (or mail back beforehand). These need to be filled out anew each year, to keep yours and your children’s info up-to-date.

As you know, our Church School Program is a cooperative venture in which all parents with children in the program are expected to teach for one unit during the year (fall, winter or spring). Please think about the unit/grade you would prefer! I will be finalizing the teaching schedule in the next couple weeks. Please call me (Cathy Clasper-Torch) with any questions: #401-272-3942 or email me at: cathfiddle@hotmail.com

Summer joy to each of you!

Cathy Clasper-Torch

RETREAT INTO READING

Monday, September 13
7:00-8:30 p.m. in Hamilton House Parlor

We’re starting a new book: Messy Spirituality: God’s Annoying Love for Imperfect People. All are welcome to come and discuss chapters 1, 2 & 3 in this wonderful little book on spirituality for real people! “Spirituality is not a formula; it is not a test. It is a relationship…Spirituality is not about perfection; it is about connection… Spirituality is not about being fixed; it is about God’s being present in the mess of our unfixedness…” This book may be small, but it has a lot to say! Questions? Call Claudia at 331-1960.
Page 4 / September 2010

New Orleans Mission Trip!!!

October 10-16, 2010

Last month marked the 45h anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. Between the devastation of Katrina and the BI oil spill, sometimes it seems that New Orleans and the Gulf just can’t catch a break, doesn’t it? If you have wondered what you can do to help, then consider coming with us on the life-changing mission trip this fall from October 10-16!

Join your friends at Central as we live out our faith rebuilding homes for our brothers and sisters in New Orleans who have seemingly had more than their fair share of suffering…

And, if you cannot physically join us, please consider being a sponsor of this important work. Any amount will help rebuild lives by sending OUR members to NOLA. All donations will be gratefully received by those who have made getting the people of NOLA back on their feet their personal mission.
When we were there last October, person after person said the same thing to us, “God bless you for coming to help us. Please don’t forget us…”

Be a part of changing lives—your own, as well as those whom you will help. . .
Questions? Call Claudia (331-1960)

High School Confirmation Class!

Confirmation at Central is an opportunity to explore and journey deeper in faith in partnership with others. It is open to all high school students in 9th grades and higher. Confirmation will include community service components as well as several exciting field trips! Come to Central on September 26 at 9AM to learn more and register for the program. Classes will begin on October 3.

Adult Confirmation Class!

Interested in learning more about the Bible? Your faith? The Church? Others’ faith? Wanting to ground yourself more in Christian community and outreach through service? Adult Confirmation may be for you! This year, Central is beginning an Adult Confirmation Program that will meet at 8PM on Monday nights, starting October 18. The class will explore theology, the Bible, faith, and faith-in-action through service. We will also take field trips to other places of worship and explore the ways God is working both inside and outside the walls of the church. Classes will begin on October 18, and the course will run from October – April. Speak with Kat Townes if you are interested in participating or in learning more!

FROM THE DEACON’S BENCH

As the Summer season ends and we return to our more normal routines, we reflect on our recent activities. Whether you vacationed in Provence or your backyard, visited family and friends, read a book or wrote a poem, it was a change of pace in our lives and we are better for it. It was a time to celebrate being outside, maybe on the water, because after all, we are the “Ocean State”. We are blessed with four seasons in Rhode Island which brings us closer to an understanding of the ebb and flow of life. How each season is different and how we seem to do different things in each season. What do you remember most about what you did this Summer?

Kat had her wedding celebration in the Church and honeymooned this summer. Claudia and Kat conducted Sunday services throughout the Summer. Rebecca, Tom and Ezra were on the farm when they weren’t traveling or hiking and camping at the Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico. There was Vacation Bible School, and a gathering at the Crescent Park Carousel, and we were kids again. Camp Street Ministries handed out food and Central volunteers served breakfast on Tuesday’s at Amos House all summer, and most Tuesdays throughout the year. And the list goes on.

Now we are water sliding to Fall. We return to work, school, Church, the pursuits of Autumn. There will be leaves to rake and the harvest to gather. In the life of our Church, there is Gathering Sunday on September 12th and an all Church retreat beginning the 17th. There will be mission projects to support like Mission Day, the New Orleans trip in October and next year to Haiti.
Your Deacons and other Church officers and committees will be at work in early Fall in preparing activities for the Church year. Seek them out with your ideas and volunteer to help teach, sing, write, support a mission or a committee.

-Barry Bayon

Darrell West Lecture Series

Our next speaker in the Darrell West Lecture series will be The Rev. Dr, James Forbes, Jr., Senior Minister Emeritus of the Riverside Church, New York City and President of the Healing of the Nations Foundation.

Saturday, November 20 at 6 pm at Central.

GOT MISSION?

Join us for a church-wide day of service!

When: September 25, 8:00AM-12PM

Where: We’ll meet at Central for a quick breakfast in Chapel Hall before carpooling out to partner agencies across the city. Agencies include Amos House, Habitat for Humanity, Camp Street Ministries, Open Table of Christ, the Blessing Way, the Jonnycake Center, Irons Homestead, Mt. Hope Learning Center, Crossroads, and others.

Who: People of all ages and abilities are encouraged to participate!

How: Space is limited at some sites. Sign-up now for your site-of-choice in Chapel Hall!

The Poets Page needs poems and stories on the following topic:

“A Place I Love”

It is time to let your imagination fly high!

Please respond to poetlaureate@centralchurch.us For publication we would also need a very brief bio and a photo.

CentralNEWS/April 2010

VOLUME 18 NUMBER 4 296 Angell Street Providence, RI 02906  401-331-1960

From Your Senior Minister

Dear Friends,

We come now to the celebration of Christ’s resurrection!  After some decades in congregational ministry, I am beginning to see that my sermon won’t be able to convey the whole wonder of the triumph God gives us in Jesus Christ.  But I am also beginning to see that we come to this place not to understand, or to fully comprehend the mystery of His Resurrection, which is beyond any human explanation. We come here to celebrate this mystery gladly – with all the sisters and brothers in Christ whom I so deeply cherish.

Nothing comes so close to our hearts, for in His Resurrection is our hope for eternal life, and for the peace which comes from beyond us. Yet we come also knowing that our authority for gathering in this incredible celebration lies in Jesus’ prayer for us,

“Father, forgive them.

For they know not what they do.”

We will come together as persons asking for forgiveness….not because of what we have done and not done, but because what we have done and not done is forgiven on the Cross. What a miraculous mystery. Jesus lives. And in His Death and in His Resurrection, are our deaths and our resurrections!

And so we come, hopefully, expectantly, often with the people closest to us in life and love. And as we come, we bring with us new understandings and appreciation. We find joy born of this reconciliation and redemption. We find around us signs of confirmation of God’s Grace.  Awakening.  Life renewed. Miracles.  New beginnings.  Fulfilled expectations.  Belief.  Faith…The crocus next to the crack in the sidewalk. Instead of cold grayness, there is now warm sunshine. In place of silence, there is birdsong. Weariness is replaced by freshness.  A feeling that we have reached a new beginning. And all the signs are of the Providence of God. Here, now, with you and with me, and across this world of God’s.

Happy Easter to you and to yours. Christ is Risen!  Hallelujah!

Rebecca

SERVICE OF LESSONS & CAROLS

On Sunday, April 11 we will celebrate a Service of Easter Lessons and Carols. During the regular Sunday worship, our pastors, deacons, and choirs will offer praise to God in the form of readings and songs about the triumph of Easter.

Our prayers and sympathy are with

…the family and friends of Alison Barker who died February 24, 2010. A Memorial Service was held in Hanover, MA on March 7. May God’s comfort surround all those who mourn.

Karen Hopkinson, her grandmother passed away in March

Easter SCHEDULE

Palm Sunday, March 28

Worship Service   10:30 am

Preceded by the outdoor procession with Jasper (the donkey), palms, choir, & children at 10:10

Maundy Thursday, April 1 – 7:30pm

Service of Tenebrae and Communion

Preceding worship, our Deacons invite you to a potluck supper in Chapel Hall.

Tenebrae, Latin for Shadows, is a service of lessons and is accompanied by the gradual extinguishing of light.

Good Friday, April 2 – 12 noon

Our adult choir sings the Fauré Requiem

Easter Vigil Service, April 3 – 7:30 pm

Wilson Chapel

Labyrinth open 7-7:30pm (Makepeace Room)

Easter, April 4

Ecumenical Sunrise Service 6:30 am at Swan Point Cemetery

Easter Breakfast 9:15 am

Children’s Egg Hunt   9:45 am

Festival Service of Worship 10:30 am with, organ, brass and timpani Preludes begin at 10:10 am

Easter Breakfast

Chapel Hall April 4  9:00 am

$10 Adults

$5 Children

Children under 3 free

$25 per family

Jehovah Witnesses in High Definition

When our cable went out the other day, COX came to the rescue and sent over a friendly young man, we’ll call him “Bob,” to investigate the problem. Discovering a faulty filter, Bob made the necessary adjustments and Poof! “Countdown to Armageddon” was now coming through in high definition.

While he was tweaking wires and zapping our box with Star-Trek-communicator-looking devises, he made small talk. Knowing the parsonage from years of work on the East Side, he asked if my husband was one of the ministers at Central. When I replied that I was actually the one called as an Associate at Central, his initial look of confusion quickly gave way to a smile.

As medieval paintings of the biblical prophets and modern day disasters danced across the pixels of our newly-connected TV, Bob confessed that in addition to being a skilled cable repair man, he is also a Jehovah’s Witness.

I had previously never met a Jehovah’’s Witness in person, and Bob is certainly the first one I’ve knowingly invited into my home. I was secretly hoping he’d ask me if I “knew Jesus.” Ever since we adopted our dog (also named Jesus), I’ve looked forward to the opportunity to introduce some arrogant, over-eager evangelist to our pup. Having heard the stereotypes of aggressive, “Convert or go to hell” types, I anticipated an awkward turtle moment in which I’d have to scoot out the door in a hurry to avoid further conversation.

To my surprise, the revelation I was a minister (and a female one no less) actually elicited a smile as well—not a smug, “gotcha” smile, but a genuine smile with a twinge of relief. I turned down the Armageddon special and tuned into the cable repairman as he engaged me in a respectful back and forth about scripture, ministry, & faith.

Since he was relatively unfamiliar with the UCC, I got a chance to share my own excitement and passion for the work we do, and specifically, for the work Central members do both welcoming people in and reaching out to the community. When the conversation ended, I walked away feeling uplifted and inspired.

Although I disagree with much of Bob’s theology, I admire his willingness to share his own journey of faith with strangers. I was especially moved by his stories of volunteering at the prison. He told me that a close family member was in jail and that he feels a particular connection with inmates. Because he is able to empathize with prisoners’ experience on some level, he is able to communicate God’s radical forgiveness and love in a language that relates Christianity and the Christian scriptures to their lived experiences.

Reading the Bible with them through the filter of their lives, Bob is able to help them produce a more high-definition image of God’s Word. Our great reformer, Martin Luther, translated the Bible into the vernacular so that lay people could read the scriptures, but even in our native tongue, the Bible and the teachings of Jesus are sometimes difficult to uncover. In order to see God’s love in high definition, we sometimes require considerable translation.

Jesus filtered God’s message through metaphors of agriculture and translated God’s promises into the language of the Jewish religious tradition. Those who wrote down the story of Noah and the flood made allusions to Babylonian traditions that would have been familiar to Jews living in exile in Babylon. Paul, the great evangelist, used Greek understandings of science and logic to communicate Jesus’ teachings to Gentiles.

I know that many of us work and live in environments that we think are unfriendly to conversations about faith, but my encounter today reminded me that sharing our own experiences opens the door for others to explore how God and faith are active in their own lives. When we talk about how our church helps us get through  tough times, how the teachings of Jesus motivate us to do for others, or how Sunday worship feeds us, we bring the Good News to life and help people see more clearly the real work of God in our lives.

Our cable is fixed, and I can now watch some of my favorite shows in vivid detail. As I continue to live into God’s call to be a Christian disciple, I hope that I will continue to learn new ways to clarify God’s message of love for others. I also hope that I will, with practice, develop the courage of a tent-maker like Paul and a cable man like Bob finding more opportunities to share my own faith and love for God.

Many Blessings,

Kat

Easter blessings to you all!  Christ is risen indeed!

I’m writing this article fresh from the New England UCC Women’s Celebration which just took place in Burlington, VT in March.  As co-chair of the worship committee which organized worship for four different services, you’d think that I wouldn’t have had much time to experience Celebration—and you would be right!  However, I did manage to visit all the displays and vendors and I heard all of the meal-time speakers, and even if I didn’t get to the fifty or so workshops I heard all about them!  And, of course, I was intimately involved in all of the worship that weekend.

As I think about Easter, I am reminded of the theme for Women’s Celebration, “Together Building Bridges.”  Throughout the weekend we talked about all sorts of bridges that we could build or that we could cross in our lives.  We listened to speakers who talked about bridges in their own lives and in the lives of others.  We worshiped together—a bridge of 650 or so women who sought to build, repair or maintain the bridges in their own lives and who will bring this message back to their own congregations all over New England.

We were 6 weeks old and 90 years young and every age in between.  We spoke English as well as Korean and other languages from around the world including one of the 510 living languages of Nigeria!  Looking out at the sea of faces gathered in worship I saw a rainbow of God’s beloved children…

And, in all that bridge building and bridge crossing we were reminded on that final day in Sunday’s worship that unless God builds the bridge we labor in vain (Psalm 127)!  You see, the bridges we build depend on an ultimate bridge: the bridge from God to humanity in the person of Jesus…the bridge that was built in all its shining glory on an Easter morning so long ago.  The bridge that is there just waiting for us to cross it in order that we may know this risen Christ, and through Jesus build the bridges that God calls us to build in our own lives!  And, then we are called to cross each one of them with the risen Christ at our side.Christ is risen!  Christ is risen indeed!

Yours in resurrection faith,

Claudia

MUSIC AT CENTRAL

Music for Holy Week and Easter

Once again we celebrate the passion of Holy Week and the joy of Easter at Central with music that reaches deep into our souls as well as lifting us on high!

On Palm Sunday, we continue a beloved tradition of singing “The Palms” by Jean Baptiste Faure (not the famous Fauré who wrote the Requiem!).

On Maundy Thursday all the music including hymns is unaccompanied.  The choir will sing variations on “Ah Holy Jesus” and two deeply soul-searching anthems by Alberto Ginastera and Johannes Brahms.

For our annual special service of music on Good Friday the choir presents the Gabriel Fauré “Requiem” with an orchestral ensemble.

We exult in the resurrection on Easter Day with festival music for organ, brass, and timpani in anthems and hymns!  This year we feature a new work by Richard Webster, Associate Director of Music at Trinity Church, Boston.

Come and follow on Christ’s and our own spiritual journey from death to life as we commemorate Jesus’ last days, hours, and finally his glorious resurrection.

Heritage Sunday

Please join us on Sunday, April 25. Heritage Sunday  marks the first time services were held in the Benefit Street Church. On this day, we honor the founders and faithful of Central Church through the years. Hymns and prayers with historical meaning are woven into this service of thanks and remembrance.

We at Central gratefully honor our members who have enriched this community of faith for over fifty years. Their witness to Christ has touched many lives.

April in Providence XX

The tree trunks are wet

From the melted snow

The buds on the branches

Are like emeralds on display

Die and be

We feverishly sweep through the house

Wiping out grime

Deleting the dirt

The dust bunnies are coaxed from under the beds

During the dull days of winter

We have built a boat

Soon it will be

On its maiden voyage

Old wishes have vanished

The new ones

Are much more urgent

Fulfillment is near

Die and be   -Ilse Kramer

CHURCH SCHOOL NEWS

There is, inevitably, some ‘fear and trembling’ as Church School teachers, and parents, enter into the time of Holy Week, and stories of Jesus’ last days.   We have understood Jesus to be a teacher of love, inclusivity, and peace-making.    Now we enter into stories of crowds turning against him and even his own disciples misunderstanding, denying and betraying him.   Our beloved ‘rabbi’ (teacher) Jesus dies a most horrible and cruel death.  The children ask us, “Why?”  How can someone who taught people about God’s love be mocked, tortured and put to death?   And then comes the story of the Resurrection!   It would’ve been easier to ‘end’ everything with Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River, his wild and wooly cousin John baptizing him, the “spirit of God descending like a dove” overhead!  How perfect a “Hollywood ending” would that be!   But that was just the beginning!

It can be difficult to know how to talk about the Holy Week and Easter stories with young children, apart from the obvious difficult subjects of death and injustice, because we as adults and followers of Jesus have to grapple in our own hearts with the meaning and mystery.  We often feel we need to have ‘answers’ for the children, when we have many questions ourselves.   What I appreciate about the Church School curriculum we use is that it strongly encourages ‘wondering’ with the children.  “I wonder about that too…” becomes an invitation to talk, share our feelings, and think together.  It allows for growth and movement and exploration together, rather than simple ‘answers’ that may cause confusion in the short and long-term.

May many thoughtful family discussions ensue around this powerful ‘season’ of our faith-journey!

Love & blessings,

Cathy Clasper-Torch

Director of Christian Education

Calendar reminders:

PALM SUNDAY – March 28th–Please arrive at 10:00 for our annual Palm Sunday Procession (outside, on Diman Place).   We look forward to the annual visit of our donkey friend, “Jasper.”  Children process into church with palms and banners for the opening hymn.  We DO have Sunday School classes as usual.

MANUDY THURSDAY POTLUCK/WORSHIP – Thursday, Aprpil 1  6:00 pm

EASTER EGG HUNT – 9:45 on the dot!   Enjoy breakfast at 9:00 at church ($25 for family) and then line up in the Fireplace room at 9:45 for the Egg Hunt!   We have baskets and paper bags for the goodies, but feel free to bring your own basket if you wish.

EASTER WORSHIP – there is childcare in both the Cherub Childcare and Pre-school classrooms during the service.  There are NO CHURCH SCHOOL classes on Easter morning.

Remember….

Each Sunday morning, we reserve three parking spaces at the Diman Place entrance for those who need assistance. Please feel free to use them.

FROM THE DEACON’S BENCH

Growing into Servanthood

My thoughts often drift to the subject of servanthood in the context of my faith.  What exactly is a servant?  How do I grow more in that direction?  What are the instructions Jesus leaves us on becoming a servant?  I think about this so much because, for me, I know that I grow, am empowered and my perspective shifts most when I am serving.

Being able to serve naturally, I think, involves finding one’s personal gifts and lovingly giving those gifts to others.  The gifts I am thinking about include things which come easily to us, which we most enjoy doing and can share with others with a joyful heart.  Offering a listening ear to someone with a joy or trouble to sort through.  Volunteering to teach cooking to children with the Cooking Club at Mt. Hope Learning Center.  Weeding someone’s garden who is not able to manage the physical work.  Participating with Central’s Habitat for Humanity work crews.  Preparing a meal for a person overwhelmed with too many responsibilities.  A simple visit with a home bound elder.  Serving breakfast at Amos House Soup Kitchen.  Saying, “Yes”, when a member of the Nominating Committee invites you to accept a term on a Central Church committee.

Being asked to participate in a project or the work of a committee may be intimidating for you.  You might wonder what you have to offer, or if you have enough to offer.  My personal experience is that no matter how inadequate I may be or feel, when I step into a new opportunity to serve with my fellow Christians, the experience becomes transformative, something like stepping into sacred space.  For as my inabilities mingle with the abilities of my fellow Christians, somehow we empower each other, and what we do together becomes something out of the ordinary.  We bring out the best in each other.  We witness as we work.  We are given the gift of growing and loving.  We work our way toward servanthood. And discipleship.

As I write this, members of our Nominating Committee are beginning to invite Central members to join committees for the upcoming year.  If a committee membership opportunity comes your way, or if one of the many opportunities to serve through activities of the church intrigues you, I encourage you to become a part of our church community in a new way, to challenge yourself to move out of your comfort zone, share your gift of self and give to others in a new and intentional way.  Walk with me on this path toward servanthood.

If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there shall my servant be also; if anyone serves me, the Father will honor him. (John 12:26)

-Barbara Bayon

Celebration: Where ALL are Welcome!

Please join the Membership Committee on Sunday April 25th at 9:15 a.m. in the Fireplace Room for a showing of the DVD “Celebration: Where All are Welcome.”  This DVD, the second in a series on faithfulness in the United Church of Christ, shows the varied ways in which UCC members reach out to others, and how our Church lives into its commitment to be a multiracial, multicultural, open and affirming Church, accessible to all. The featured stories share a common thread: Every person has worth. Every person has gifts to share. Every person has a place at Christ’s banquet table. An important message that is central to the mission and ministry of the UCC. There will be a time for introduction, viewing, and then reflection/discussion. We offer this opportunity not only to educate, but to remind us of what it means to belong to the United Church of Christ.

Angellic Knitters

Sunday, April 11  12-1:30 pm Deacon’s Room

Come join the fun: whether you knit, aspire to knit, or  just want to experience fellowship and participate in the blessing of the prayer shawls that are lovingly made for others!  As an added bonus, if you’ve always wanted to learn how to knit we’ll teach you!  Questions?  Call Janice Libby or Claudia.

ARK Group (Acts of Random Kindness)

This wonderful group is available to those who may have a need in our faith community.  It maintains a list of individuals willing to provide meals, rides, etc. for you on an as-needed basis.  If you are interested in volunteering, please contact a coordinator: Jane O’Farrell (rsher02906@cox.net) or Gretchen Yealey (Gretchen_Yealy@brown.edu) or Claudia (331-1960).  If you have a need for some help or know of someone who does, please let Claudia know!  Volunteers are waiting!!

Retreat into Reading

Monday, May 10 (no meeting in April)

7:00-8:30 p.m. in Hamilton House Parlor

All are welcome to this group that meets on the 2nd Monday of each month!  In May we will read and discuss chapters 4, 5, and 6 in When the Heart Waits by Sue Monk Kidd.  This is an autobiographical account of Kidd’s journey through pain, spiritual awakening and ultimately through transformation.  Questions?  Call Claudia.

The Greening of Rhode Island

NEW VISIONS OF OUR LOCAL ENVIRONMENT COMMEMORATING EARTH DAY

April 18 to May 9, 2010

FEATURING THE CREATIVITY OF LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL ARTISTS

Opening reception and awards presentation in the church gallery Sunday, April 18   2 – 4 p.m.

The Face: Jesus in Art

Sundays in May 9:00 a.m. (no class 5/16)

Fireplace Room

Please join Claudia as we trace the different ways Jesus has been portrayed in art throughout history and around the world.  The Face is an unforgettable tribute to the power of Christ’s image to inspire us all.  The art featured in this series spans the early 3rd century to the present day.  Works by Michelangelo, da Vinci, and Rembrandt are discussed side by side with the art found in the catacombs of Rome, Chartres Cathedral, and the extraordinary icons at the remote 4th century monastery of St. Catherine’s at Mt. Sinai. Amazing and awe-inspiring as well as visually stunning…an adult Sunday School series that shouldn’t be missed!

Baptism

The Sacrament of Baptism will be celebrated on two Sundays, April 18 and April 25. A pastor/parent meeting will be held at 9 am on Saturday, April 10 in the Fireplace Room.

Please call The Rev. Rebecca Spencer, 331-1960, if you wish to participate in this Baptism.

STEWARDSHIP

On Sundays, February 21, February 28, March 7 and March 14, the Stewardship Committee invited four wonderful speakers to share their Stewardship Moments for our 2010 Stewardship Campaign, “We Share Because We Care”.  Below are excerpts from each speaker.

Beth Taylor spoke on February 21

“Like many of you, I came to this wonderful church from another religious tradition. In my case it was Quakerism. For various reasons, when my children were young and I was looking for a church in Providence, I found in Central an intelligent appreciation of Biblical narrative and an unabashed community of faith. The Quaker in me found the Mission and Action Committee – a tangible and regenerating expression of my faith. When my kids were little, they were my Mission and Action, but as they flew into adulthood, I have enjoyed being able to do more with M/A. I’d like to invite you to join in any way – small or large, with donations of money or time. It’s all good.”  Beth then shared with us the details of the wonderful programs of the M&A Committee.”

Emily Maranjian‘s thoughts on February 28

“A few weeks ago, I was asked to speak about Stewardship. I accepted. I then immediately regretted that decision. Why?  Well, it was not because I had no thoughts about Stewardship. It was because I don’t want to think about Stewardship. Most of us don’t want to think about Stewardship. Thinking about Stewardship would lead you to wonder whether you are giving away enough of the treasure that God has entrusted you with. I imagine that is why we have these Stewardship Moments. And that is probably why most of us can’t wait for these Moments to pass.

But God asks us to trust in Him and have faith that He will take care of us. That is easy to say but very hard to internalize and truly believe. As Christians and members of this Wonderful church, we should all spend some time thinking about what we do give to the church and to our community and why we don’t give more.

So perhaps we should include Stewardship as part of our faith journeys.  Perhaps we should really examine the strength of our faith and challenge ourselves to get out of our comfort zones.

So consider taking advantage of the many opportunities we have at Central to learn, to examine our beliefs, and to deepen our faith.”

On Sunday, March 7, Matt Spencer

“I decided I’m going to tell you how I make my pledge to the church each year.  It’s really quite simple actually.  I take some time to think about what I earn during the year and compare it to how much I spend, and calculate what I think I can afford to give to the church.  Then I take this pledge card which you should have received in the mail (and if you didn’t I’m sure there are plenty of people who would be happy to give you one after the service), and I write down a bigger number. That’s right.  I put down a larger number than I think I can afford.  Here’s why:  What if by giving more I can help the music program at our church stay strong to help attract more new members, as I myself was drawn almost 5 years ago.  What if by giving more I can help someone in transition have a place to stay at Amos House. What if by giving more I can help maintain our vibrant children’s program of which we’ve already seen evidence today during the children’s time.  What if by giving more I can help people in Haiti or in Chile to get much needed water and shelter.  What if by giving more I can help someone who is hungry right here in Providence get something to eat through Camp Street Ministries.  And what if I had the faith in God to trust that even though I gave more that I thought I could afford, I would still be taken care of.  And though I don’t make any claim to be the most faithful person here, I can try to listen to the exhortation the choir sang during today’s introit: “Have faith in God, my mind, Thou oft thy light burns low; God’s mercy holds a wiser plan Than thou canst fully know.

And so, even though my inward faith may be lacking, I can act with outward faith and hope the inward faith follows.  I take the plunge, take my pledge card, and write down a bigger number.  I hope you will consider doing the same.  Thank you.”

Warren Jagger on Sunday, March 14

“Good Morning.  I’m Warren Jagger, and today I’m addressing stewardship as our responsibility for this inspiring place.  I believe everyone in this congregation is a steward – literally, a caretaker – of this beautiful building.

The members of the first building committee created a strong, grandly scaled, classically proportioned, richly detailed structure of undeniable beauty.  What they wanted their church to represent here on Angell Street was, I feel, their best human attempt at a tribute to the glory of God.  And so we are now, over a century later, heirs of that ongoing attempt, stewards of that continuing tribute, charged with the care of this real symbol of God’s presence in the world.

It is quite literally a house, a house of worship, an old, huge, inspiring, and hard-to-maintain one. Think of it in terms of your own house, except that it’s ten or even twenty times more complicated and expensive.  After utilities, routine cleaning, and supplies like light bulbs, paper towels, and floor wax, the church budget allocates only $15,000 annually for the Building and Grounds reserve to pay for all other maintenance and repairs on our entire physical plant.  Needless to say, your stewardship support is crucial.

In this kind of weather, any of us might wonder about our own houses — “will the roof leak (this one has), will the basement leak? (this one has).  The Prudential Committee and Plant and Properties Subcommittee deal with these type of nuts and bolts concerns at this church.  But everyone has a part to play, something to contribute, because this is your home too.  God’s house.  And a very special meetinghouse. Thank you.”

On Dedication Sunday, March 21st, pledges received before and during the worship service were dedicated. A Celebratory Lunch in Chapel Hall followed.

PLEDGES TOTALING $311,737, APPROXIMATELY 69% OF OUR GOAL HAVE BEEN RECEIVED.

If you were unable able to submit your pledge by March 21st, we encourage you to send it in as soon as possible. Giving is part of being a member of this faith community. Pledges are important as they enable us to review our projected budget and to plan our programs and outreach.  Thank you!

Happy News!

Congratulations to Hilary Burns and grandfather, Ken Burns. Their son & grandson, William Elwood, was born on March 17.

News from the Hogans in Africa

Hard for us to believe we have already spent 2 wonderful months here!  Joe continues to work hard for AMPATH (Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare).  He has made strong progress towards his main goals of establishing a training program for biostatisticians in western Kenya, collaborating with medical researchers at AMPATH, and assisting his Kenyan graduate student with completion of her dissertation.  I continue to participate in morning rounds at Moi Training and Referral Hospital that involves rounding with a Kenyan attending physician, residents, and medical students.  It has been enlightening learning and teaching one another.  There are also American medical students, residents, pharmacy students on the wards who are doing elective rotations in Kenya.  The kids continue to attend Gulab Lochab Academy here in Eldoret and have adjusted well.  They have a much greater appreciation for their own school in Cranston after their experience here.

Dawn hopes to do a short presentation for the congregation about their experience and to provide information about the Tumaini Children Center, which performs outreach for “street children” of Eldoret.  This is new program was one and a half years in the planning by an MPH student, and is now just 3 months off the ground.  They have 50-75 street children attending each day session.  The center has 4 paid staff (including a former street kid), and several volunteers.  Street children are a highly vulnerable, marginalized population, commonly seen in every major Kenyan town and city.  They frequently resort to huffing glue as a way to cope with hunger and their dire life situation. Tumaini Center provides street children a safe haven to be children, to learn, and to be rehabilitated.

Tuanone hivikaribuni (See you soon!)

THE FUTURE OF PUBLIC SCHOOL REFORM IN RHODE ISLAND

Temple Beth-El

70 Orchard Avenue

Wednesday, April 7   7:00 pm

Panel:

Deborah Gist – RI Commissioner of Education

Dr. Warren Simmons – Director, Annenberg Inst. School Reform, Brown University

Michael Lazzareschi – Principal, Nathan Bishop Middle School

Moderator

Elizabeth Burke Bryant, JD – Executive Director, Rhode Island Kids Count

Please mark your calendars, save the date, and join us for this exciting and informative event which is being co- sponsored by Central Church, St. Martin’s Episcopal Church & Temple Beth-El.

Sandwich Brigade

The Mission & Action Committee invites you to come to the church kitchen at 9 am on Saturday, April 3rd  and on Sunday, April 11, 18 & 25 to make 200 lunches for Crossroads.

Capable parents and children are most welcome! Please join this semi-annual Church mission event that is a lot of fun that generates a lot of good!

House & Garden Tour

Saturday, May 22, 2010

Save the date for a spectacular visit to many of the East Side’s lovely homes and gardens. Our day will start with an organ concert by Partick on our newly rebuilt Aeolian Skinner organ. Following will be a tour of the Sanctuary by Jim Silverthorn with a history of its art and Duffner & Kimberly stained glass windows.

Several homes and gardens are in the area:

Brooke & Gene Lee’s house is across the street. Gene is the set designer for Trinity Rep and Saturday Night Live. He does some of his work in the studio behind his house.

Next door is the Lippit House, a museum full of Victorian furniture and art.

Hamilton House is next to the church and an optional box lunch for $8 consisting of a sandwich, beverage, fruit and cookie will be offered between 11:30am &1 pm. (Sign up ahead for lunch and please do not bring food or beverages into the church or any of the homes).

Nearby is the McCulloch Garden, one of the largest homes on the East side, with lovely gardens.

At the Thomas Lloyd Halsey Mansion on Prospect Street you will  tour the garden.

On Benefit Street your visit includes several gardens including the RISD Garden and the Handicrafter’s Garden.

Also included are two homes with gardens on Condgon Street and two other homes using alternative energy, saving electricity as well as our planet. In all there are over 18 sites for you to visit.

This is a fundraiser for our local mission programs. For reservations, please call Central Church, 331-1960 or stop in the church office on Diman Place. Advance tickets are $25 and $30 on the day of the event. For questions, call Norm Leard or Mary Bishop

Rebecca’s Noon Book Group

Next meets on Thursday, April 22 to discuss The Guernsey Literary and Potato Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer. The book selection for Thursday, May 20 is The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Mariel Barbery.

For summer reading, Empire of Liberty by Gordon Wood will be discussed on Thursday, September 30.

Interested in Joining Central?

New Member Orientation*

Wednesday, April 21

Faith Exploration*

Tuesday, April 27

New Member Sunday

May 2

*These meetings are held at the home of the Rev. Rebecca Spencer, 15 Taber Ave at 7 pm

CentralNEWS/March 2010

VOLUME 18 NUMBER 3

296 Angell Street  Providence  RI 02906   401-331-1960

From Your Senior Minister

Dear Friends,

With Ash Wednesday just last week, we are now in the beginning of the days of Lent, and I am reminded of the cycle of life…..Lent offers us a time to reflect, and to focus on how we have strayed from the people we want to be…created in the image of God. Lent nudges us to own up to our sorrows and regrets, to shame and confession, apology, remorse and atonement….

It is no secret that our Good Friday service is a lot smaller than Easter Sunday.  It is a sad, introspective time. But I always feel a little sorry for those who only are present at Easter… For encompassing the cross into our Easter celebration makes our joy ever so much more profound.  Easter is not just a miracle story with a very happy ending… We know only too well that suffering exists. That bad things happen to good people. That loss happens and that evil is real.

The angel’s announcement, “He is not here.  He has risen.”  is simply less real and much less powerful if you haven’t asked yourself, “Was I there when they crucified my Lord?”

Jesus of Nazareth suffered horribly.  Not just the physical pain of his death on the cross.  His feelings of abandonment, betrayal, loneliness must also have been present to him.  And if we are truly honest, don’t we need to ask ourselves….“might I have been among those who betrayed him or at least abandoned him?”

The grace of God made so clear to us in the Easter miracle is so much more real if we acknowledge our own imperfections in not being there when Jesus needed us. And so, I ask you to move through the days of Lent thoughtfully and prayerfully.  Come to the Wednesday meditations and share in the spiritual journeys of your fellow members.  Think about your stewardship of your time and talents and resources.  Come to Bible Studies and ask yourself….where have I fallen short in my journey?  And let us prepare together for the greatest celebration of all when we sing together on Easter morning, “Jesus Christ is Risen.”

Yours in Christ,

Rebecca Spencer

Easter SCHEDULE

Wednesday Meditation 5:30 – 6:00 pm

March 3               May Grant

March 10               The Rev. Kat Townes

March 17            Steve Calvert

March 24            Beth Taylor

Mini Retreat 6:00-8:30 pm

Wednesday, March 10

Refections & Response

Palm Sunday, March 28

Worship Service   10:30 am

Preceded by the outdoor procession with Jasper (the donkey), palms, choir, & children at 10:10

Maundy Thursday

April 1 7:30pm

Service of Tenebrae and Communion

Preceding worship, our Deacons invite you to a potluck supper in Chapel Hall.

Tenebrae, Latin for Shadows, is a service of lessons and is accompanied by the gradual extinguishing of light, The readings, preceded by Communion, commemorate the events of Holy Week: Jesus’ betrayal & arrest, His passion, trial & death on the cross. This is a moving & important service that allows us to walk with Jesus in those last days & hours of His life. It prepares us to celebrate the glory & the light of the Resurrection on Easter.

Good Friday

April 2 12 noon

Our adult choir sings the Faure Requiem

Easter Vigil Service

April 3 8 – 9 pm

Wilson Chapel

Easter

April 4

Ecumenical Sunrise Service 6:30 am at Swan Point Cemetery

Easter Breakfast 9:00 am

Children’s Egg Hunt   9:45 am

Festival Service of Worship 10:30 am with, organ, brass and timpani

Preludes begin at 10:10 am

Baptism

The Sacrament of Baptism will be celebrated on Sunday, April 18. A pastor/parent meeting will be held at 9 am on Saturday, April 10 in the Fireplace Room.  Please call The Rev. Rebecca Spencer, 331-1960, if you wish to participate in this Baptism.

From Claudia

I like to enter the season of Lent using a metaphor of being on a journey—a spiritual journey—during this season.  Now, that doesn’t mean that I am not on a spiritual journey during all the seasons of the church year, but this part of the journey always has a different feel to it for me.  And this particular year as I enter a more interior journey, I am also preparing for a physical journey, which will start two days after Easter.

On April 6 I will join a group that is traveling to the Middle East for sixteen days.  We will visit five countries: Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Egypt, and Israel (including the Palestinian West Bank).  For me, it will be the trip of my lifetime!  Frances Munro from Central will also be taking this trip and we’ll look forward to sharing what we learn with all of you.  Some of this group of twenty people I’ve known for a long time, some for a shorter time, some not at all, but I dare say that we will know one another very, very well by the time this trip is over!

Our itinerary will begin in Beirut where we will visit Harissa Church a.k.a. “The Lady of Lebanon,” the National Museum, Pigeon Rock and the Jeita Caves.  From there we travel to Palmyra to see the Temple of Bel, and Damascus to the Saladin mausoleum, Kawkab, and the Umayyad Mosque.  In Bosra-Amman we will tour a Nabatean city and a Roman theater.  The day we visit Bethany we will see the “City of Mosaics,” Mt. Nebo, and Jesus’ baptismal site.  From there, we will visit Wadi Rum Desert and stay overnight in a traditional Bedoin camp.

The next day it’s on to Petra, which we will reach on horseback.  After Petra we will travel to Jerusalem to the Mount of Olives, Mount Zion, and the Garden of Gethsemane.  The next day we will be in Jerusalem’s Old City visiting the Dung Gate, the Western Wall, the Pools of Bethesda, Via Dolorosa, Antonia Fortress, and the Israel Museum.  Traveling to Nazareth we’ll visit Cana, Mary’s well, Joseph’s workshop (okay, okay, I know it’s not the REAL one!) before flying to Cairo.  In Cairo we’ll visit some Coptic churches on arriving.  In the following days we’ll go to the Giza Plateau, the Egyptian Museum, the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut’s Temple, and see the Colossi of Memnon.

Are you tired, yet?  And, this is only a preliminary itinerary!  As you read this schedule I’m sure that you’ve noticed that this journey will encompass historical as well as devotional sites which relate to the three Abrahamic faiths—Islam, Judaism, and Christianity.  It will truly be a trip of a lifetime, but if I look tired when I return, you’ll know why!

Yours on the journey,

Claudia

From Kat

As we were about to launch our inner tubes down the tubing lanes in Mt. Snow, VT, I asked Patty and Anna Tanalski if they had any tips for us first-time riders. Patty responded, “Just know you’ll be totally out of control. So just hold on and enjoy the ride…” I thought. Easier said than done!

Throughout the weekend, many of us struggled with the challenge of letting go. Whether it was gathering the courage to step off the chair lift on a snowboard; trusting another parent to shepherd our child down the slopes; letting go of our frustration with lines and traffic; releasing ourselves from the need to protect others from our children’s difficult behavior; or having faith that the trail would eventually lead to safety; we were all pushed to loosen our grip on our illusion of control.

As terrifying as these wilderness experiences can be, they are also liberating! Our family spent the afternoon cross-country skiing, something my husband and kids had never done before. I was amazed to watch my son, Royce, as he navigated difficult, hilly sections of trail, only to wipe out dramatically on smooth, flat areas. I finally asked him if his snow dives were intentional.  “Well yeah,” he said. “I’m practicing falling.”

As the day went on, Roycie seemed more and more fearless. He did not become an expert at falling; rather he became a pro at knowing the world would not end if he slipped.

Letting go and trusting God does not give us a guarantee that “everything will be okay” or that we will not experience pain. But it does release us from the unfair pressure and responsibility we put on ourselves to keep everything and everyone on solid ground (that’s God’s job!).

May God grant us the courage to journey through Lent as Roycie journeys through the snow—without fear, trusting that God and our community will accompany us and show us grace, even when we fall.

REFLECTIONS AND RESPONSE

A Lenten Mini-Retreat

Wednesday, March 10

6:00-8:30 p.m. in the Deacon’s Room

Mark your calendars for a Lenten mini-retreat!  Immediately following the Lenten Service we will gather together for a quiet retreat.  At 6:00 we will enjoy a soup and bread supper as together we begin to explore our reflections and responses to Lent and Holy Week.  After supper we will find a quiet place in the church to observe contemplative quiet.  At 8:15 we’ll gather together again for a time of sharing and prayer.  Please R.S.V.P. to Claudia (331-1960).

From Our Treasures

What a wonderful celebration we had for Don MacIntosh’s 100th birthday in February! In honor of Don, four of our Church members have given gifts to our Church totaling over $400! Thank you to these members for their thoughtfulness and all best wishes to Don for a loving and faithful witness for us all!

-John P. Boyce

Easter Breakfast

Please join us for our festive Easter breakfast. It’s an easy, delicious and wonderful way to start your Easter morning. Our youth groups will be serving and all proceeds will help to sponsor their Mission trip to Philadelphia in June.

Easter Breakfast

Chapel Hall

April 4 9:00 am

$10 Adults

$5 Children

Children under 3 free

$25 per family

New Member Orientation*

Wednesday, April 21

Faith Exploration*

Tuesday, April 27

New Member Sunday

May 2

*These meetings are held at the home of the Rev. Rebecca Spencer 15 Taber Ave at 7 pm.

Early Spring Sale

The Bursting Pomegranate Shop

Early Spring Sale — Sunday March 28

Stop by Chapel Hall after church on Palm Sunday to see the cheery new Easter and spring items!

All purchases support artisans & craftspeople in developing countries around the globe, a mission outreach of our Church.

STEWARDSHIP

The 2010 co-chairs Mary Hazeltine and Ann Scott kicked off Stewardship Campaign on Sunday, February 14th.  All members should have received a letter with their pledge card during the week of February 15th.  There will be Stewardship Moments during the service on Sundays 2/21, 2/28, 3/7, and 3/14.  Dedication Sunday will be on March 21, when members in attendance are requested to submit their pledges during the worship.  Following the service on March 21 there will be a Celebratory Lunch.  If you cannot attend on March 21, please help us by sending in your pledges in advance.  Pledges are important because they enable us to review our projected budget and to plan our programs and outreach.  Thank you in advance.

-Mary, Ann & the Stewardship Committee.

ARK Group

(Acts of Random Kindness)

This wonderful group is available to those who may have a need in our faith community.  It maintains a list of individuals willing to provide meals, rides, etc. for you on an as-needed basis.  If you are interested in volunteering, please contact a coordinator: Jane O’Farrell (rsher02906@cox.net) or Gretchen Yealey (Gretchen_Yealy@brown.edu) or Claudia (331-1960).  If you have a need for some help or know of someone who does, please let Claudia know!  Volunteers are standing by!!!

LIBRARY NEWS

Have you wondered what to make for the next potluck meal at church? The church library (off the Fireplace Room) has the answer: a new book for you to borrow, The Church Supper Cookbook, Dewey number 641.5973 on the library shelf.

Salad? How about Spicy Peach Salad, made with canned peaches and gelatin? Sounds easy! Page 160.

Dessert? Have fun with the ingredients mentioned in the Bible, for Scripture Cake, page 212.

The book has full pages of delicious-looking color photos that make you want to start cooking at once, or at least plan your next contribution.

-Jean Edwards

Welcome!

Congratulations to Derek and Carolyn White, Their son, Silas, was born in February.

FROM THE DEACON’S BENCH

The season of Lent was for me, and for a long time, the least well understood time of the Church year. It was never clear to me what giving up chocolate, desserts, or other pleasures—as  some friends did—had to do with the “preparation” for Easter. Several years of living in New Orleans, with its months long Carnival activities (read: nonstop partying!) followed on Ash Wednesday by relative calm and “business as usual” didn’t help!

In recent years, and largely inspired by being a part of the Central family, I have found a new understanding of Lent. I have discovered it is a season rich with meaning and possibilities. It is a time set aside for reflection and of introspection. And it recalls the forty days Jesus spent in the wilderness. His time of contemplation sets before us a challenge and an example for us to look deeply at our own lives. Giving up some small pleasure, or making some conscious change in our lives during Lent, allows us to focus and concentrate more clearly. With meditation, prayer and scripture reading, we can focus more clearly on the meaning of our Christian lives, our sinfulness and our need for forgiveness. It is a self-imposed discipline to make us more aware spiritually, and open pathways in our preparation for Easter.

A passage from Bread and Wine—Readings for Lent and Easter summarizes it nicely for me. “First popularized in the 4th Century, Lent (literally “springtime”) is traditionally associated with penitence, fasting, almsgiving, and prayer. It is a time for “giving things up” balanced by “giving to” those in need. Yet whatever else it may be, Lent should never be morose—an annual ordeal during which we begrudgingly forgo a handful of pleasures. Instead, we ought to approach Lent as an opportunity, not a requirement. After all, it is meant to be the Church’s springtime, a time when, out of the darkness of sin’s winter, a repentant, empowered people emerges.” (published by The Plough Publishing House of the Bruderhof Foundation, Farmington, PA copyright 2003)

-John Peters

House & Garden Tour

Saturday, May 22, 2010,

12 noon to 5pm

(tickets on sale April 1)

House & Garden Tour

Sponsored by the Prudential and

Mission & Action Committees

The day will start with an organ concert by Patrick Aiken

at Central at  12 noon

Optional lunch at Hamilton House

from 11:30am – 1pm

THE FUTURE OF PUBLIC SCHOOL REFORM IN RHODE ISLAND

Temple Beth-El 70 Orchard Avenue

Thursday, April 7 at 7:00 pm

Panel:

Deborah Gist – RI Commissioner of Education

Dr. Warren Simmons – Director, Annenberg Inst. School Reform

Brown University

Michael Lazzareschi – Principal, Nathan Bishop Middle School

Moderator:

Elizabeth Burke Bryant, JD – Executive Director, Rhode Island Kids Count

Please mark your calendars, save the date, and join us for this exciting and informative event that is being co- sponsored by Central Church, St. Martin’s Episcopal Church & Temple Beth-El.

One Great Hour of Sharing

Stories from your neighbors around the world.

Haiti: working with the Haitian task force, the UCC has established an emergency relief fund for immediate support as well as longer-term work projects.

Hurricane ravaged communities along the US Gulf Coast continue to rebuild. One  person, one house at a time, volunteers and your donations are helping uprooted families return home.

In the Dominican Republic, with support from OGHS, families are learning how to best grow and sell the fruits of their labor. They are using what they earn to buy school materials for the children, medicine and basic health supplies.

For generations, the indigenous peoples of the Chaco region of South America have faced discrimination and exclusion. This offering, helps improve their well being, livelihoods, and food supply.

Zimbabwe: to fight a food emergency brought on by a complex humanitarian crisis, OGHS assists in building up food security to provide emergency aid and the tools to better grow food. By learning conservation techniques and how best to adapt to climate change, local farmers are taking the future of their country back into their own hands.

Central will receive the One Great Hour of Sharing offering on Palm Sunday, March 28.

The First Christians

From Jesus to Christ:

The First Christians

Sunday mornings on 3/7, 3/21 & 3/28

9:00 a.m.

Fireplace Room

This extraordinary series continues to explore the life of Jesus and the movement that he started, challenging familiar assumptions about the origins of Christianity.  Go back in time 2000 years to the place where Jesus once lived and preached.  Experience Jesus’ life and the lives of his first followers, the men and women whose belief, conviction, and martyrdom created a major movement that transformed the mighty Roman Empire in only 300 years!

Step Forward! Campaign

It is very gratifying to receive donations to the Step Forward ! Campaign from Central members who have relocated to other parts of the country—but still love our Church and want to participate in its restoration with a gift.

One such individual, now a member of a Church in another state sent a donation to Step Forward! and writes, “I do feel that this is what I can afford…I am living very modestly. Thank you for thinking of me as a continuing member of Central it is definitely a leader in faith, care and concern for the future of all.”

Thanks to the gifts of many members and friends of Central, we have achieved sixty percent of our goal of $3,000,000. We hope to hear soon from those who have not yet pledged a gift, or who wish to make an additional gift.

Spring Cleaning

Saturday, March 27 is our Fall Church Clean-up Day

Please help clean the church building and grounds Saturday, March 27 from 9 am to 12 noon.  We need expert or not so expert help cleaning, dusting, washing windows, raking, weeding…you will surely find an area of interest.  A list of jobs is available. Coffee, doughnuts, and good company abound!  Call Wes Yando at 722-2357 with questions.

New Book Group!!

Monday, March 8

7:00-8:30 p.m. in Hamilton House Parlor

All are welcome!  Get in on the ground floor!  This group is so new that it doesn’t even have a name, yet!  At this year’s women’s retreat interest was expressed in a group that might read books that have a spiritual focus.  For our first book we will read and discuss When the Heart Waits by Sue Monk Kidd.  Questions?  Call Claudia.

Knitting Group

Angellic Knitters

Sunday, March 14

12-1:30 pm Deacon’s room

All are welcome: knitters, those who aspire to knit, and those who just want to experience fellowship and participate in the blessing of the prayer shawls that are lovingly made for others!  As an added bonus, if you’ve always wanted to learn how to knit we’ll teach you!  Questions?  Call Janice Libby or Claudia.

Food for Thought

Wednesday, March 25

7:00-8:30 p.m. at Claudia’s house

Food for Thought book group will be discussing The Seven Deadly Sins Sampler.  This collection of short stories by the likes of D.H. Lawrence, Flannery O’Connor, Margaret Atwood, Anton Chekhov, and others offers an interesting way to delve into the foibles of humanity and the moral implications of those foibles.  A compelling read…

Since we have been participating in the Eastside Marketplace’s Friendship Fund,

$11,127 has been received for Central’s mission outreach. Please remember to save your market receipts. A special thanks to Frannie Gross who tallies the market receipts, delivers them to Eastside Market, and to those who bring their receipts to church.

We plan to mail our April Newsletter on March 25 so it will be delivered before Easter. Please submit your articles to the church office before March 17.

New Members

We welcome our newest members who united with us in membership on Sunday, February 7, 2010.

Paul & Beverly Armstrong

Barrington, RI 02906

The Armstrongs are both Brown University professors. They enjoy reading, films, opera and traveling. Our music, sense of community and Rebecca Spencer brought them here. They are the parents of 3 children and their son Jack is an enthusiastic member of our children’s choir.

Emily Button

Providence RI             02906

Emily is a grad student in Brown’s Anthropology PhD program. She recently moved to Providence and enjoys running, cooking, reading novels and is a member of a Creole folk singing group. She enjoys Central’s wonderful music and wants to be a part of an open and welcoming community.

Tony & Renae Gregg

Pawtucket RI 02860

Tony is a Graphic Designer with CVS and Renae is employed by Arden Jewelry. She enjoys jewelry, fashion, art and home décor and Tony’s interests include art, design, and music. They chose Central because of its warm, inviting feeling. Their first child is due in April.

Laura Kerber

Providence RI 02906

Laura is joining as an Associate member and is currently a Brown University Geological Sciences student. She enjoys writing, reading, knitting, cake decorating, fire-dancing, and drawing. She was impressed with Jasper, the donkey, on Palm Sunday and by the many opportunities for community service. She is interested in Habitat for Humanity.

Peter & Sophie Lau

Rumford RI 02916

The Laus are employed by The Wheeler School. Paul enjoys history with a focus on civil rights, African American, US politics, and tennis. Sophie’s interests include reading, tennis and cooking.  The Gross and Hebb families recommended Central’s children’s program. They have 2 young children, Emmie & Thompson.

Angela Stickle

Providence RI 02906

Angela is a Brown University Geology grad student. Her interests include fire dancing, cake decorating, knitting, photography and learning the bass guitar. She enjoyed Central’s Holy Week activities including Jasper, the donkey, and continued to attend. She is interested in Habitat for Humanity.

Book Group

Rebecca’s Noon Book Group meets in March to discuss Barbara Kingslover’s The Lacuna.

For summer reading-Empire of Liberty by Gordon Wood is the selection for Thursday, September 30.

ARE YOU A GREENIE?

DO you have environmentally sensitive talent or experiences you’d like to share with others?  Would you like to help shape the environmental practices of the church? Please let one of our ministers know of your interests”.

Celebration VIII

Together Building Bridges

March 12-14

Sheraton Hotel & Conference Center

Burlington, VT

Mark your calendars for this very special event for women!!  Celebration is a New England UCC retreat for women ages 14 and up.  This event happens every 4 years.  The first Celebration was 32 years ago.  It attracts 1000 UCC women from all over New England to share worship, workshops, music and lots more.

Claudia is on the Steering Committee for this event and would be happy to give you a brochure and answer any questions.  Registration is now open at www.uccwomenscelebration.org

Prime Parking

Each Sunday morning, we reserve 3 parking spaces at the Diman Place entrance for those who need assistance. Please feel free to use them.

From the Deacons

The Deacons welcome conversation with you!

Our Deacons are responsible for the spiritual welfare and direction of the Church. The Board of Deacons meets monthly to consider issues related to worship, use of church facilities, the response of the Church to social issues and other matters of importance at Central. Deacons serve as mentors to confirmands, sponsors for children and adults in Baptism, prepare and serve Communion, assist the Ministers in the work of the Church and serve as pastor to the Pastors. Members of the Board of Deacons at Central encourage you to seek them out after worship, in committee meetings, by telephone or email so that you can share your thoughts and concerns about life at Central. Our current Board of Deacons include: Barbara Bayon, George Delany, Steve DeWitt, Staci Fischer, Joan Harrison, Larry Kellam, Laurel McLaughlin, Sherri Nelson, John Peters, Rob Schmidt, John Trevor and Maureen Whittemore.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Dear Church Members,

Just a short reminder to please sign up for a photo appointment for the new Church photo directory. Photos will be taken February 18-20 and 25-27. The photo directory will be a great way to connect names with the people we see at Church each Sunday and to build connections among Church members.

It’s easy to make an appointment online by linking to

https://signup.olanmills.com/familyinfo.aspx?chcontract=50293

or connecting through a link on the Church’s website. Once online, registration is pretty simple. Members can also sign up in person at our table in Chapel Hall during the next two Sundays (but sign ups end February 7).

Every participating member/ family will receive a free photo directory and 8×10 portrait photo, as well as an opportunity to purchase additional portraits if they’re interested in doing so.

If you have any questions, please contact Central member Paul Barlow.

We hope you’ll participate!

A SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CONGREGATION will be held in Chapel Hall immediately following the worship service on Sunday, January 31, 2010. The purposes of the meeting will be to:

(1) approve a tentative Church budget for the 2011 fiscal year, and

(2) amend the Church bylaws to create a Conservation Committee as a standing committee of the Church and assign it various responsibilities.

Copies of the proposed tentative budget and proposed bylaw amendments are available

for examination in the Church office.

Church members are urged to attend and participate in this important planning meeting for our next Church year. Other persons are welcome to attend as observers. Child care will be provided.

A 7.0 earthquake hit Haiti just before 5:00 pm on Tuesday, January 12, 2010 with major damage and loss of life feared. Striking 10 miles west of the capital city of Port-au-Prince, with a population of over 2 million, the shallow quake has been followed by several significant aftershocks.

Initial reports of damage are sketchy, but Haiti’s Ambassador to the U.S., his Excellency Raymond Alcide Joseph fears the earthquake is “a catastrophe of major proportions.” Mike Godfrey of USAID in Haiti reported seeing a “huge cloud of smoke and dust” over Port-au-Prince which appeared shortly after the initial earthquake and lingered for 20 minutes. Such a cloud is likely to arise from the cement dust released in the collapse of buildings.

Attempts by UCC and Global Ministries staff to contact partners and Global Ministries personnel in Haiti will continue into the night. Land and cell phone service is severely disrupted.

One Great Hour of Sharing funds are being rushed to our Haitian partners to support their initial emergency response. As damage assessments are made and plans for relief, recovery and rehabilitation are developed, additional OGHS funds will be shared with our partners.

On the more immediate, personal front from our Haitian task force; Suzanne Swanson reports that she has talked to Alex and Jeanette Dorisca who both report that they are unable to be in touch with people in Haiti at this moment. Suzanne will be doing a television interview with a local station during the day and will be mentioning that our Conference will be a place where donations can be sent. Because communication is so difficult we are not able yet to make wire transfers directly to our partners in Haiti.

I have also heard from Susan M. Sanders, Minister for Global Sharing of Resources and our One Great Hour of Sharing Administrator. Susan was our Annual Meeting presenter when we were in Kingston and one with whom we have deep respect for her work and savvy. Susan reports:

Dear Friends:

The earthquake which struck Haiti Tuesday afternoon appears to be devastating. Felix Ortiz, David Vargas and I continue to try to make contact with our partners and Global Ministries mission personnel in Haiti, but as of Tuesday late evening, have not yet had direct contact.

Initial emergency response grants from One Great Hour of Sharing funds have been approved and attempts will be made to transfer the funds to beginning Wednesday morning. As the extent of the disaster becomes clear we anticipate we need for substantial designated gifts

Susan M. Sanders

How to Help: We have two ways which your congregation can help provide emergency relief to our brothers and sisters in Haiti.

1. Working with the Haitian task force we have established a emergency relief fund and the Conference and will be working directly with the Dorisca family to look for ways to be supportive immediately as well as longer-term work projects. It will take us a little while to reestablish connections with our local Haitian bank in order to be able to transfer funds. Please send to Rhode Island Conference Haitian relief fund, 8 Summer St., Pawtucket, RI 02860

2. Disaster relief ministries of the wider Church ministries of the national UCC church has already established funding routes to Haiti through their connections and as of this morning has already send funds from one great hour of sharing funding. They have a website where you can donate directly or you can designate funds labeled “OGHS – Haitian Relief” and send them to our Conference. Visit the website.

Either way we will be able to get funds not only to the region served by our Haitian task force and to all of Haiti through our One Great Hour of Sharing funds.

We will keep you advised when we are able to get more information from the Dorisca family.

Dear Friends,

The United Church of Christ has launched an emergency appeal for Haiti after a major earthquake struck the country yesterday. Thousands of people are feared dead and countless have been left homeless.

The need is massive. Your gifts are needed to support immediate and long-term relief.

The 7.0 quake struck 10 miles southwest of the capital just before nightfall on January 12. Our Global Ministries personnel, Kim, Patrick and Solomon Bentrott, have reported to us that they are safe.

It is still too early to know the full extent of the damage, but we are expecting very high loss of life, widespread destruction of homes, schools and other buildings, and major damage to key water, electricity and road systems.

Funds from the UCC’s One Great Hour of Sharing are being rushed to our Haitian partners to support their initial emergency response. However, your generous donations are needed to provide the greatest level of support for the victims of this terrible disaster.

Your prayers and monetary support are needed. Here is how you can help.

The Rev. Geoffrey A. Black
General Minister and President
United Church of Christ

The Rev. Cally Rogers-Witte
Executive Ministries
UCC Wider Church Ministries

P.S. If you or your congregation prefer to make your gifts off-line, please send checks to “Wider Church Ministries” and marked in the memo portion “OGHS – Haiti Earthquake Relief” to Wider Church Ministries, United Church of Christ, 700 Prospect Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44115; or send through your respective Conference office.

CentralNEWS/December2009

VOLUME 17 NUMBER 11 296 Angell Street  Providence, RI 02906 401-331-1960

From Your Senior Minister

Dear Friends,

I write this on November 23. Yesterday the boys and I were driving home and we noticed all of the lights that people were putting up – already, on November 22.  I said, predictably, “Wow, I can’t believe people are putting up lights already.  It isn’t even the first day of Advent.”  After a moment or so, Ezra said, thoughtfully, “I guess they really love Jesus.”  Maybe you had to be in the car at the time, but it struck us so funny as we kept driving by snow globes and reindeer and trees, to think of the families stringing up the lights and the elaborate decorations, doing this to signify their love for Jesus.  And then there was a jolly Santa Claus on a very small front porch all outlined in brilliant red and white lights, and I thought, you know, maybe we should not be so quick to think negatively about the whole jumping the holiday syndrome.

Maybe Jesus would find a way to turn this impulse we have to light up the dark night into something profound.  Maybe it is up to those of us who are a bit more effusive about our love for Jesus to find a way to include those who may not be as aware as we are.  After all, “He is the reason for the season.”

So, my note to myself and to you, my friends, for this last week before Advent begins, is that we redouble our efforts to love Jesus and to find ways to include others in that love. And every time I pass by a house that is gaily decorated, whether with blinking electric giant candy canes or a simple wreath on the door, I am saying a silent prayer that God’s love may enfold all who live therein.

Yours, in the spirit of a hopeful, expectant Advent,

Rebecca

Christmas at Central

Sunday, December 6 11:30 am – 2 pm

• The Lunch Room
• Grandma’s Attic
• Ye Old Bookcellar
• Toy & Sports Treasure Box
• Sweet Shoppe
• Gift Baskets
• Craft Workshop
• The Gallery
• Bursting Pomegranate
• Wreaths by WORD
• Local Artists & Vendors

Prayers For…

Our prayers and sympathy are with the family and friends of Sarah “Sally” Bosworth who died November 19, 2009.

A Memorial Service will be held soon.

May God’s comfort surround all those who mourn.

New Members

New Member Orientation*

Tuesday, January 26

Faith Exploration*

Wednesday, February 3

New Member Sunday

February 7

*These meetings are held at 7pm at the home of The Rev. Rebecca Spencer, 15 Taber Ave.

CAROL SERVICE

We will send out postcards in early December to remind everyone of the Carol Service on Sunday, December 20, at 4 p.m.

In addition, we will provide stamped postcards for you to invite family and friends as well! Look for members of the choir and Music Committee in Chapel Hall during coffee hour for yours.

ADVENT SERVICES

Wednesday, December 2nd, 9th, 16th

5:30 – 6:00 pm

These midweek services provide an opportunity to center and receive the gifts and blessings of Advent. It is a wonderful time to come for quiet and restoring of your soul during this busy time. These services are especially for those who seek God’s healing presence at this time of year. Please invite your friends to the quiet meditation of Advent.

BAPTISM

The Sacrament of Baptism will be celebrated on Sunday, January 31. A pastor/parent meeting will be held at 9 am on Saturday, January 23 in the Fireplace Room.

Please call The Rev. Rebecca Spencer, 331-1960, if you wish to participate in this Baptism.

From Kat

“Santa in the Manger”

When I lived in Tokyo as a child, my mother regularly prepared the communion bread for our services at Tokyo Union Church. She often took the bread left over from the services and fed our neighborhood pigeons—“They’ll be flying high today,” she’d say, laughing.

I have many fond memories of sharing church with my family in Japan, and the Sacrament of communion and our goofy tradition of feeding the birds was only one of the ways our family found comfort in an unfamiliar place through participation in the church.

Although many of us were born in the United States, as Christians, we are still outsiders in many ways. As the holidays begin to ramp up, the secular Christmas frenzy often comes into conflict with the quiet and thoughtful preparation we do during Advent.

In Psalm 137, the Israelites in Babylon lament, “How can we sing the Lord’s song in a foreign land?” How can we experience our connections to God and each other in a time that is so full of the false promises of false idols, be they the lie that Christmas means “we’ll all get along,” the lie that our children will love us more if we get them the perfect gift, or the lie that Christmas means we will all be as shiny and happy as the ornaments on our trees.

I remember entering one store in Tokyo at Christmas time and being shocked to find a nativity set with Santa in the manger. What a fitting metaphor for the mixed messages we receive around Christmas time! Ours is not a faith that ignores the secular world; however, as Christians, we are called to testify to much deeper and greater reality than the secular Christmas can offer us.

Give yourself the gift coming to the 5:30PM services during the three Wednesdays of Advent this year. In contrast with the secular holiday season full of noise and blinking lights, our Advent services are quiet and candle-lit. Come at least once and experience the comfort of being with this family of faith as we meditate and reflect on our longing for God’s presence.

In love,

Kat

20’s & 30’s HOLY-DAY Party

Friday, December 11   6:30 pm

If you’re in your 20’s & 30’s (or feel like you are!), you and your family are invited to the Parsonage at 24 Diman Place for an evening of food and fellowship. Kat’ s husband will be smoking meat (and cooking veggie options as well). If you haven’t tried Royce’s BBQ yet, that alone is a reason to join us! Please bring a favorite side dish, dessert, or drink to share. Friends are welcome!

From Claudia

By the time you read this, Advent will have begun.  Preparations will already be beginning at church as we celebrate this season of reflection and anticipation.  Our little ones are hard at work on the pageant, the colors of the paraments and the clergy’s stoles have switched to purple, and the choir is hard at work rehearsing for this season.  Everything seems under control.  But is it really?

This waiting for God is a messier business than we often like to admit.  Just ask any of the Hebrew prophets.  Just ask Joseph…or Mary…  Like the unexpected timing of birth itself, God rarely comes in the way we expect.  And, like the prophets and peoples of old we wait—and in wonder we hope.

Eugene Peterson reminds us that “Wonder is the only adequate launching pad for exploring this fullness, this wholeness of human life.  Once a year, each Christmas, for a few days at least, we and millions of our neighbors turn aside from our preoccupations with life reduced to biology or economics or psychology and join together in a community of wonder.  The wonder keeps us open-eyed, expectant, alive to life that is always more than we can account for, that always exceeds our calculations, that is always beyond anything we can make.”

And so it is that we once again enter into this season of wonder that Christ comes again and again.  When we sing “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” may we be a community filled with wonder as we remember that Emmanuel means “God with us.”  God is with us all the days of our lives.  God breaks into our lives even now—in 2009… in all the messiness of our lives.  But isn’t that just like God?  In wonder and in joy we approach a humble, darkened stable and there we find the Light of the world!

Wonderingly yours,

Claudia

GOD WITH US

An Advent Mini-Retreat

Wednesday, December 9th

6:00-8:30 p.m. in the Deacon’s Room

Immediately following the Advent Service we will gather together for a quiet retreat.  At 6:00 we will enjoy a homemade soup and bread supper as together we begin to explore the meaning of God with us.  After supper we will find a quiet place in the church to observe silence in order to contemplate this mystery.  At 8:15 we’ll gather together again for a time of sharing and prayer.  Please R.S.V.P. to Claudia (331-1960).

BOOK GROUP

Rebecca’s Noon Book Group meets on Thursday, December 10 to discuss The River of Doubt by Candice Millard.

MUSIC AT CENTRAL

Carol Service

We present our annual Carol Service on Sunday, December 20 at 4 p.m., followed by a Silver Tea in Chapel Hall.

Once again, we present the story of the birth of Christ in scripture and song beginning with the creation story in the Garden of Eden. Passages of scripture find an echo in the familiar Christmas congregational carols and anthems sung by both our choirs, and accompanied by organ, harp, and cello.

Following “Oh Holy Night” & concluding prayers, the choir begins a candlelight procession to the Chancel as we sing “Silent Night.” The service concludes with the instrumental “Sleep of the Infant Jesus” with harp and cello.

This beautiful service offers a chance to retreat from the “holiday” hustle and bustle to peacefully reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. Bring your family and friends to share this lovely tradition!

WORD Fellowship 9-12th Graders

Saturday, December 5   6:30-8:00 pm

WORD Fellowship & 8th graders interested in participating in the 2010 Mission Trip

Come decorate living wreaths to be sold the following day at Christmas at Central. This is a big fundraiser for our summer mission trip, and we can use your hands and your creativity! Pizza and drinks will be provided.

Thayer St. Rendezvous

Sunday, December 6   6:30 pm

Enjoy some pizza and begin the conversation about the Christmas Eve service we’ll lead. This is a KEY event. Don’t miss it!

Thrifty Bowl!

(Cosmic Bowling & Vintage Awesomeness)

Saturday, December 12  7 – 9 pm

We’ll meet at Salvation Army and see who can find the most awesome/ridiculous outfit or accessories for the least amount of money. Sporting our new looks, we’ll travel to East Providence Lanes for a game of Cosmic Bowling.

Friday, December 18   4 p m

Christmas Extravaganza!

Shopping for our adopted family, wrapping gifts, and watching “Charlie Brown’s Christmas”.

NEOS 6th – 8th Grades

Saturday, December 19 4-6 pm

Parent Free Last Minute Christmas Shopping

Join us for gift-making as well as last minute shopping at affordable spots around the city.

CHURCH SCHOOL NEWS

“Sacred infant, all divine,

What a tender love was Thine;

Thus to come from highest bliss

Down to such a world as this.”

–from hymn/carol “See Amid the Winter’s Snow”

In this part of our journey through the church ‘seasons’ we wait and anticipate the coming of Light amid the darkness of our days and our times; the very incarnation of God, entering into “such a world as this.”  We light the Advent candles each week to represent the spirit of our ‘pregnant waiting’: the candle of HOPE; the candle of PEACE; the candle of JOY; the candle of LOVE.

As we light the candles, at home or at church, it is important to take time to reflect on the significance of each candle.  One way to deepen our understanding and appreciation is to look at them in contrast.  When you light the candle of hope, think about places of despair–in your own life or in the world.  Then light the candle.  Suddenly it is brighter and has a richer meaning!  And the same profundity will happen for Peace, Joy, and Love.

May Advent be a rich season for you and your family, and may the Light shine in our darkness!!

DATES TO REMEMBER:

Sunday, Nov. 29th: the first Sunday in Advent; the first Sunday of Pageant practice during Church School for grades 2nd – 5th.   Junior Highs do ‘choosings’ or remain in worship.  Remember to take a ‘name tag’ from our ANGEL GIFT TREE in Chapel Hall!

Sunday, Dec. 6th: Continued Pageant practice during Church School. Also, please support “Christmas at Central” (directly after church) and do some Christmas shopping!

Sunday, Dec. 13th: Continued Pageant practice, includes GABRIEL’S GANG pre-schoolers, and K – 1st graders.  After worship, please stay for TREE DECORATING and CRAFT-MAKING, followed by ADVENT CAROLING!    Please BRING BACK YOUR ANGEL GIFT TREE GIFT THIS SUNDAY!

SATURDAY, Dec. 19th: 10:30 a.m. DRESS REHEARSAL FOR PAGEANT.  Meet in Chapel Hall to get your costume first.   We will run throught the play twice, and be done around noonish.  Parents of children in GABRIEL’S GANG (our ‘angels’ in the Pageant!) and SHEPHERDS/PROPHETS (our shepherds and animals in the Pageant!), and STARGAZERS (2nd grade, more Shepherds, etc.) must stay for dress rehearsal.

SUNDAY, DEC. 20th: 9:15 final Pageant run-through before 10:30 worship.

CHURCH SCHOOL resumes on Sunday, Jan. 10th, 2010!!

Blessings and Joy,

Cathy Clasper Torch, Religious Education Dr.

From the Deacons’ Bench

The holiday season is in full swing. We have enjoyed ourselves, eating and doing all the family Thanksgiving favorites and traditions. Some old ones, some new. We are now into the season of giving; which means running around to find the perfect gift, tree, or place to enjoy the day our Lord was born. For me it’s the time of year when the adrenaline kicks in because I have no clue what to give my loved ones on December 25th.  Each year I say I am not going to get stressed out. However, we all we know we do.

This year I have decided to give something far more precious and much less expensive. An item that can’t be bought at the mall or on the Internet… I am going to give my family more of my time. In the past, I have not been very good at giving this (my partner can certainly attest to that). It seems that we, as people, are more than ever involved in many activities, different groups and organizations. Not to mention our kids are in so many extracurricular activities that we sometimes go days without being together as a family unit.

So, I put some challenges out to every one; instead of or in addition to buying material things, this year, give the gift of TIME. Second challenge. . .

Make an effort to make it a very special holiday season for someone you know who is less fortunate. Take an extra few minutes to talk to someone who seems down, asking them “What can I do to make your load a little bit lighter?” You may find that just having someone to listen to them is all that’s needed.

Another way to make this holiday a very special one is to invite someone who may not have family in the area to spend Christmas with you and yours. Even better, invite them to join you for the Carol Service or to come to one of Central’s Christmas Eve services.

Whatever you do this holiday season, make it one that your family will remember and cherish throughout the coming year.

Happy Holidays and Peace to All,

-Larry Kellam

Knitting Group

Sunday, December 13th

12:00-1:30 p.m. Deacon’s Room

Make new friends and visit with older friends at Central as we chat over our needles!  Whether you are a beginner or an experienced knitter relax with us and learn something new or share your knowledge.  Don’t know how to knit?  That’s okay!  We’ll teach you!  Questions?  Call Janice Libby or Claudia

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Trinity Repertory Theater,

Friday December 11th 7:30 p.m.

Join your friends at Central for a production of that perennial holiday favorite featuring Central’s own Benjamin Thornton as Tiny Tim!  Cost is $43 for adults, $10 for children and youth 14 years of age and under.  Questions?  Call Claudia.

Central Delegates Attend Conference

More than 80 delegates and clergy from the Rhode Island Conference of the United Church of Christ met at the Four Corners Community Church in Cumberland on a very rainy Saturday in November for the Conference’s 2009 Autumnal Meeting, one of two held each year.

With the theme of “Going Green, with Gratitude”, the meeting opened with a worship service. Following the service, an informative presentation was given by Dr. Ray Frackelton, a member of Newman Congregational Church, and Chair of the RI Interfaith Power and Light. He discussed the potentially serious impacts of global warming and offered several ways of reducing the carbon footprints of individuals, families, and churches. In the small group discussions that followed, it was apparent that while Central needs to go further, much of what we have already accomplished through our Green Committee places us ahead of many other churches.

Later there were brief presentations on topics from last summer’s General Synod meeting in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Among those topics were Global Mission Churches, and the benefits and value of being a Global Mission Church, presented by Central’s Mary Hazeltine.

Conference Minster, the Rev. Chuck Barnes, reminded delegates that, in every way, “The UCC is not them, but it is us!” Too often, he suggested, local church folks think the denomination offices and programs are distant and not related to our local church concerns. No, he insisted, “The UCC is not them, but it is us!”

After lunch, in a regular business meeting, the delegates unaimously approved a Conference operating budget for the coming year, reflecting challenging economic times.

Meeting attendees are made up of delegates, clergy and visitors from all of the churches in the Conference. Those from Central at this meeting included Frances & Gardner Munro, Mary Hazeltine, John Peters, Lora Spalt, James deBoer, Rev. Townes & Rev. Demick.

-reported by John Peters

COOKIE SWAP

Thursday December 17th

6:30 p.m. in Chapel Hall

Come and enjoy a fun way to cut down on the amount of baking you need to do and to socialize with your friends at Central at the same time!  Simply bake 6 dozen of one type of cookie (no brownies or bar cookies, please) and bring the cookies and the recipe to Chapel Hall.  We’ll swap cookies so that everyone goes home with a delicious variety of treats!  Don’t forget to bring a platter or container to bring your swapped treats home!  Questions?  Call Claudia.

Making a difference…

It is likely that few of you know me by face and still less by name; nonetheless, it is with much gratitude that I write to you now. I attended services at Central from January 2006 through August 2009, sometimes sporadically, sometimes every week.

When I matriculated to Brown in September 2005, I was eight months removed from the suicide of a close friend. My first months at Brown were difficult. Grappling with my friend’s death, in conjunction with a transition to a new city, a new school, and new friends, proved at times to be incapacitating. A few weeks prior to my return to Providence for my second semester, a return itself in doubt due to my fragile state of mind, my elder sister suffered a life threatening car accident that left her with a broken hip and a traumatic brain injury from which she has now largely, but not entirely recovered. It need not be said that when I did return to Brown in January 2006, I was in desperate need of a place in which I could feel at home, in which I could reflect, meditate and search for peace. I found such a place for an hour every Sunday morning at Central Congregational Church.

In the services, the music, the architecture, the sermons and the people of Central I found what I needed. Members of Central, seeing an unfamiliar face, would on occasion introduce themselves to me and invite me to stay for coffee hour after the service, and even though I never did make it to coffee hour, I felt warmly welcomed and deeply connected to Central. The kind, never pushy invitations let me know that this was a community that embraced me at whatever level of participation I chose.

I think far too often good deeds are done without the doer ever knowing what kindness and what differences they have wrought in the lives of others. Simply by being there, simply by being who you are, the community of Central gave me a place of contemplation and peace when I needed it most and when nothing else could.

This May, my departmental graduation ceremony was held in Central. I was pleased to be able to graduate within the halls of a community that had contributed so fundamentally to making my years at Brown as wonderful and formative as they were.

With gratitude and a sincere wish for the continued well-being of Central Congregational Church,

-David Fristof

Volunteers Needed!

For the past few months we have had just one or two volunteers helping with our monthly newsletter. Since we mail over 400 newsletters each month, the task of folding and inserting takes over 4 hours for our two volunteers.

We assemble the newsletter at the end of each month on Monday or Tuesday mornings and /or afternoons. If you can spare some time, please call the church office. More hands will shorten our task time! If you want to GO GREEN and receive this newsletter by email instead of US mail contact us at cccangell@centralchurch.us and we’ll sign you up or go to www.centralchurch.us and sign yourself up!

We need your help! Thanks.

Tree Trimming at Central

On Sunday, December 13, immediately following the church service, please stay and help us trim Central’s Christmas Tree.

There will be Christmas carols, crafts (stringing popcorn, decorating cookies, and more) and a light lunch. Please bring an ornament, so your family can be represented on the Central family Christmas Tree.  Don’t miss what we hope will become an annual holiday tradition! At 2pm, all are invited to go caroling to our shut-ins.

Adopt a Pipe

To support the Organ Restoration Fund / Capital Campaign, the Music Committee invites you to adopt one of the 3,456 pipes that make up our historic Aeolian-Skinner pipe organ.  When you Adopt a Pipe – priced from $5 to $50 (with special $1 pipes just for kids) – you’ll receive a Christmas ornament – personalized with your name and the name of the pipe – to hang on Central’s Christmas Tree.  For $100 donations, we have personalized pipe organ banners that will hang from the balcony behind the tree.  To Adopt a Pipe, please visit the Music Committee’s table during coffee hour or call the church office.

Bursting Pomegranate Sale Dates

The Bursting Pomegranate Shop sells Fair Trade gifts and crafts from artisans in developing countries around the world, a mission outreach program of our church.

The Shop will be open in Chapel Hall after church on three Sundays this month:

• December 6  – “Christmas at Central”
• December 13
• December 20

Unusual gifts that do good for the world – come browse and buy!

Smile and Say ‘Central;

Participate in the new Church Photo Directory!

The Membership Committee is coordinating preparation of a new Church photo directory in early 2010 and needs a few volunteers to help with the work. If you would like to participate in this important activity, please contact Paul Barlow (334-8363; paul.barlow23@yahoo.com). Our first meeting will be in early December.

Are you a Greenie?

As Christians, we have an obligation to be good stewards of the gift of the earth and its resources. Do you have a passion for a particular green challenge or experience with a particular solution?  If so, we’d like to hear from you and let your experience be our guide.  Contact Rebecca, Claudia, or Kat.

Support for Vets

Central will receive the offering for the Christmas fund for veterans of the cross & the emergency fund during our Christmas Eve services.

CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON FOR THE BLIND

Thursday, December 3^rd.

Central provides the December activity in cooperation with INSIGHT, an agency which helps visually impaired persons develop skills to make living with limited vision easier. We need volunteers to act as greeters, coatroom attendants, and luncheon servers (9:00am-3:00pm). Sign-up sheets are available in Chapel Hall during Sunday’s Coffee Fellowship and in the church office during the week or you may call Marilyn Edwards, 751-2763.

The Angel Tree

The Angel Tree is up in Chapel Hall! This is our chance to brighten a child’s or teen’s holiday by selecting a tag with the child’s name, age, sex and purchasing a gift for him or her.

Please wrap the gift in traditional Christmas wrap and indicate the contents on the back of the name tag. Attach the name tag SECURELY on the package and deliver it to the church by Sunday, December 13. These gifts will be distributed by Christmas. Please call Cathy Clasper-Torch with questions.

Cub

SCOUT

Christmas

T r e e   S a l e

Friday   Saturday   Sunday

December 4    December 5    December 6

5 pm-9 pm         10 am-6 pm     11:30 am-5:30 pm

ALL SIZES OF BEAUTIFUL TREES

At

CENTRAL

Congregational

CHURCH

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

January 28th, 7:00-8:30 p.m. location TBD

This month Food for Thought will be discussing “The Seven Deadly Sins Sampler”.  This collection of short stories by the likes of D.H. Lawrence, Flannery O’Connor, Margaret Atwood, Anton Chekhov, and others offers an interesting way to delve into the foibles of humanity and the moral implications of those foibles.  A compelling read…

NEW MEMBERS

Please join us in welcoming our new members into our church family.

Omay & Gwen Elphick

Pawtucket, RI 02860

Omay is a regional sales manager for the alternative energy company, Alteris, and Gwen is a research scientist in immunology and teaches online classes for the State University of New York. They joined Central because the open, welcoming atmosphere supports their exploration and relationship with God. They have two children. Ian is 5 and Jocelyn is 2.

Dawn Hogan

Cranston, RI 02905

Dawn joins with her husband, Joseph Hogan. They are the parents of 3 young sons, Jack, Luke, and Patrick.

David Kim & Diane Hoffman-Kim

Providence, RI 02906

Diane is an associate professor of medical science at Brown and David is an associate professor of religious studies at Connecticut College. They enjoy music, singing, reading and having fun with their sons, Noah & Josiah. Diane is interested in lay reading and mission outreach.

S. Kathryn Townes

24 Diman Place

Providence, RI 02906

Kat is our new associate minister of Youth and Mission. She moved from CA with her husband, Royce, and two wonderful children, Royce and Madison. She is a Bible enthusiast and loves putting sacred texts into dialogue with daily living. She enjoys rock climbing, being outdoors, doing outreach, and working with Central’s youth groups.

Women of CCC

A time away for relaxation and renewal!!

Our annual retreat will take place February 5 – 7, 2010 on the bucolic grounds of St. Benedict Abbey in Still River, MA (just an hour from Providence). The cost is $165 for six meals, your own room and all materials. Our theme for the weekend is KEEPING IN TOUCH—with self, others, and God.

No cooking, planning, appointments, or deadlines for an entire week end! Just come, and find nourishment for the body, mind and soul.

Payment is due Jan. 11th (and fully refundable if you cancel by Jan. 25th). If cost is an issue, there are reduced payment possibilities available. To add your name to the list (or with any questions) contacts Gwen Kangis at gwen.plato@cox.net or 274-5253.

STEWARDSHIP UPDATE

Pledges to date            $428,000

Pledge goal      $432,000

Thank you to all who pledged your financial support for the work of Central Church. If you haven’t yet contributed, please join in.