Central News
October 2025 / Vol. 34, No. 2
Join Us for Sunday Worship at 10:30 am!
Download the PDF version of the October Newsletter
A Good Word from Patrick
Hey folks, Earlier this month our church leadership gathered for a half-day retreat. We’ve got a lot of committees at Central – each one carrying important pieces of our life together. But they don’t often get to sit in the same room and ask, “How are we really doing?” So we took four hours on a Saturday to do just that.
What we found was both heartening and challenging. Against the trend we keep hearing – that churches everywhere are shrinking – Central is growing. Since COVID, our attendance has risen 10 to 20 percent each year. This past summer, our average attendance was double what it was before the pandemic – double what it has ever been at its highest. That’s something to give thanks for. And it also raises a question: How do we make sure this growth stays healthy and true to who God calls us to be? Not for the sake of numbers alone, but so that our life together continues to offer hope, comfort, and faith to a world that is longing for them.
Of course, we also named some of the reasons people hesitate to engage with church at all. We know them well: the rise of Christian Nationalism, where faith is distorted for partisan gain. The painful stories of churches covering up abuse. The hypocrisy that makes the gospel of love and justice ring hollow for so many. These realities are not just “out there” – they shape the way people see any church, including ours.
But here’s the good news: We don’t have to mirror those distortions. We can choose another way. We can be a community where worship lifts our hearts, prayer steadies us, generosity opens our hands, and service roots us alongside our neighbors. We can be transparent and compassionate where others have betrayed trust. We can serve where others grasp for power. That’s what healthy Christianity looks like, and it’s what makes the church compelling.
It’s true – living this way can seem odd. Forgiveness in a culture of grudges. Mercy in a time of outrage. Generosity in a world of scarcity. Faith and trust in a season of jaded cynicism. But maybe that strangeness is the very thing the world is desperate to see.
So here’s the invitation: Let’s keep leaning into the practices that shape us. Let’s live them boldly, joyfully, and with trust that God is already at work among us. And in doing so, let’s give the world a glimpse of God’s vision of flourishing – for all.
See you Sunday! – Patrick
Memorial Courtyard Renovation Complete!
The renovation of the Memorial Courtyard has been completed, adding 44 niches for the interment of ashes to the original 60. Updated information and contracts for reserving a niche will be available in the Church Office by the end of October. Questions? Please contact Wendy Abelson, Memorial Courtyard Committee Chair. See the pdf newsletter for a photo of the renovated Courtyard.
The Deacon’s Bench
October is the beginning of autumn. It is a time for transitions and memories. We see the transitions in nature with cooling temperatures, earlier sunsets, leaves changing colors and falling. Birds and butterflies embark on their migratory flights to warmer climates. Monarch butterflies near completion of their journeys to the Sierra mountains in Mexico.
In old English, October was known as Winterfylleth: winter full moon. It is a time to prepare for winter … to pause, settle in, and spend a more reflective time of the year. Family and social gatherings will usher us through the cold winter months.
In October 2020, I began my journey to become a church member here at Central. It followed several years of attendance with a dear friend who introduced me to the church. It was a transition in my life that I have never regretted. Central is my church home, a church I have come to love. I treasure the memories of the friendships gained and the many church gatherings enjoyed over the years.
October is one of the loveliest months in New England. Beloved poet laureate Robert Frost beckons us to appreciate the beauty in nature, the passing of time, and the ultimate life changes. In “After Apple Picking,” Frost compares the changes in nature to the changes we experience in life and the ladder pointing to heaven. Frost’s “Gathering Leaves” references the importance of gathering memories and experiences … to appreciate the precious moments in life. In “October,” he invites us to slow down and enjoy the beguiling changes in nature:
… Oh hushed October morning mild,
Begin the hours of this day slow,
Make the day seem to us less brief….
Enchant the land with amethyst.
Slow, slow!
Frost cautions us to pause, listen to the lessons in nature, and respect the Creator’s plan. Just as the fallen leaves return to the earth … so shall we! Slow, slow! – Janet Harris
Seeking a Church Home?
If you are looking for a church – or know someone who is – we would love to talk with you about it at our Inquirers’ Meeting. It’s very informal. You’ll meet with our senior minister, Patrick Faulhaber, and others like you who think Central may be the right church home. No commitment necessary. To join us, fill out a pew card during Sunday Worship or call the Church Office at 401-331-1960, and Patrick will get in touch.
Inquirers’ Meeting: Sunday, October 26, 11:30 am
New Member Sunday: Sunday, November 2, 10:30 am
World Communion Sunday
On the first Sunday in October, Christians around the globe celebrate World Communion Sunday. On this day, we remember that Jesus Christ is Head of the Church and that all denominations that promote Christian unity are one – and we draw faith and inspiration from seeing we are part of a community of billions of believers. Join us as we share in the sacrament with Christians the world over! Sunday, Oct. 5, 10:30 am
Blessing of the Animals
This month, we will celebrate the Feast of Saint Francis with a blessing of the animals. The love we give to and receive from our pets is a valuable reminder of God’s love for us all. All interested pets, great and small, on leashes or in carriers – and their human companions – are invited. Sunday, Oct. 5, 2 pm, on the West Lawn
New Member Potluck / Reception
Welcome new members to the Central family during Worship and then stay after for the New Member Potluck Luncheon and Reception. The Membership Committee will provide main dishes, but you can enliven the fare by sharing a favorite side dish, casserole, salad, or dessert. Sunday, Oct. 19, after Worship, in Chapel Hall
Adult Sunday School
Adult Sunday School will continue to examine the Ten Commandments and what they mean for us today. They’ll explore how these divine rules of conduct have challenged, changed, and transformed human society for millennia. Questions? Ask Claudia. Sundays in October – except Oct. 26 – 9 am, in the Fireplace Room
MIDWEEK
Please join senior minister Patrick Faulhaber in Chapel Hall for MIDWEEK: fellowship, food, and faith-filled conversation. Centralites of all ages and friends are invited to join! Adults will share a meal at 6 pm and then dive into the previous Sunday’s scripture. Kids and youth will eat dinner at their own table and then enjoy crafts and games. RSVPs are helpful so we have enough food. Wednesdays in October, 6 to 7:30 pm, in Chapel Hall
Amos House Breakfast Volunteers
Please join Central volunteers as they assemble pre-packaged breakfasts. Even if you can only come occasionally, we welcome every extra set of hands. Questions? Contact Tracy Baran. Wednesdays, 6:30 am, Amos House Kitchen (460 Pine Street, Providence)
Scam Alert
Once again several Central members have received fraudulent emails that appear to be from our senior minister. Some ask them to purchase gift cards or for a “quick confidential favor.” Others are more innocuous, asking how they are or if they’ll please get in touch. A closer look clearly shows these emails do not come anyone at Central. If you receive such an email, do not respond; just delete! If you’re unsure about the message, compose a new email using the appropriate “@centralchurch.us” address – or phone the church office. Never reply! The Technology Committee will continue to take steps to keep Central’s email servers secure and protect all church systems.
Last Call! CCC Women’s Retreat
CCC Women’s Retreat is Oct. 24 to 26 at the Episcopal Conference Center in Pascoag. Contact Claudia, and reserve your space by Oct. 5!
Faith in Action
Central’s Mission & Action Committee (M&A) extends “the faith and service of the church into substantive community action and impact” by:
- Providing financial support to local non-profit organizations;
- Facilitating direct involvement in the work of these organizations; and
- Hosting educational programs that deepen understanding of community needs and the gaps in meeting those needs.
This month, M&A will review Central’s “benevolence selection criteria,” which determines allocation of the 2025/26 budget. Benevolences may go to organizations that:
- Directly impact human services, child welfare, health care, mental health, education, and spirituality;
- Provide shelter, food, and human services;
- Assist underserved populations;
- Enable Central to actively engage in service work; and
- Respond to M&A requests for feedback and accountability.
The committee invites Central members to review this criteria and provide feedback and suggestions – by Monday, Oct. 20 – to inform its discussion. Simply email committee chair Michael Fournier or send a written note to the Church Office. Organizations currently receiving M&A support and detailed selection criteria are on the church website.
From Claudia
October in New England is truly a beautiful month. The air turns crisp. Pumpkins and leaves turn orange. The world around us becomes a fantastic tapestry of colors, a palette of autumnal beauty. New England writer Sarah Orne Jewett wrote about one such day, “This was one of those perfect New England days in late summer where the spirit of autumn takes a first stealing flight, like a spy, through the ripening countryside, and, with feigned sympathy for those who droop with August heat, puts her cool cloak of bracing air about leaf and flower and human shoulders.”
This was true then, as it is now. As I write this, the days are still warm with much cooler nights – a foretaste of what is to come this month. A harbinger of the change of season.
My friends, there is indeed great beauty in our world. Lately it seems harder to look up to see the beauty all around us. It can be easy to become absorbed by the events of our world. The 24-hour news cycle talks only about that which appalls and saddens us.
Perhaps we could take a few moments every day to stand in the sunshine (or even the rain) in silent contemplation and prayer … just taking calming breaths and thanking our Creator for the beauty surrounding us. And, praying for ourselves and others to step back and extend peace to one another. What might happen if we did that? What would happen if others joined us? What would it be like to feel “the bracing air about leaf and flower and human shoulders” encompassing us? To feel God’s compassionate and all-encompassing presence embracing us. To seek out moments of beauty in our lives every day.
I believe that such moments of contemplation are nourishment for our souls. Remember, Jesus often withdrew to quiet places from the clamor of the world around him. If he could do so, why shouldn’t we? My prayer for us all is that we can do just that. And, in so doing, may we encourage others to do the same.
Much love and many blessings – Claudia
Musical Notes
The Central Congregational Church Choir invites you to a French Musical Soirée – an evening of fine music and fine dining – on Sunday, Oct. 26, beginning at 4 pm!
The Choir will perform “Gloria,” one of the most celebrated works by French composer Francis Poulenc (1899 to 1963). The work is divided into six movements – each joyful and unique – and features a dramatic solo that will be performed by Diana McVey, soprano. Andrew Welch of Brown University will be the guest conductor, and the organist will, of course, be Central’s Patrick Aiken.
Poulenc was inspired to write the “Gloria” upon visiting a monastery: “While writing it, I had in mind those Crozzoli frescoes with angels sticking out their tongues, and also some solemn-looking Benedictine monks that I saw playing football one day.” Musicologist John Bawden summed it up, “Poulenc’s sense of humour and love of life shine through all his music, however solemn the text might be. One of his friends said of him, ‘There is in him something of the monk and the street urchin.’ The ‘Gloria’ brilliantly expresses these characteristics, with its captivating mixture of solemnity and mischievous exuberance.”
This special service of music will be followed by a rustic wine-and-cheese reception in Chapel Hall, featuring some of Poulenc’s self-described favorites, along with child-friendly home-baked delights. In addition, Patrick is working with a local restaurant to create a specially priced, post-concert dining experience. So Central concert goers may join choir members for dinner and enjoy lively conversation about Poulenc, music, and everything else! À bientôt là-bas! (See you there!)
Christmas at Central
Christmas at Central – Sunday, Dec. 7 – will be here before you know it, and we need your help to make it successful. Please volunteer to set up, bake, donate, serve lunch, or clean up. Sign-up sheets are on the back table in Chapel Hall. Questions? Contact the committee chairs directly:
- Auction – Nancy Gage
- Craft Workshop – Torin Mathieu
- The Gallery – Jim Scott
- Gift Baskets and Raffle – Heidi and Bill Iuliano, Cheryl Ludwig
- Grandma’s Attic – Frances Munro
- Sweet Shoppe – Nancy Collins, Amy Hebb, Laurel McLaughlin, Amy Punchak
- Wreaths – Cristina Ferri, Larry Kellam
- Ye Olde Book Cellar – Ellen Miller
- Lunch Room – Hope McCullough, Temi Sonubi
We are doing gift baskets differently this year (though we are happy to accept gift baskets of your own making or monetary donations). Heidi Iuliano and Cheryl Ludwig are curating gift baskets on an Amazon Wish List. You can purchase any items you like, and they will be shipped directly to Central. On “gift-basket-making day,” we will add finishing touches and prepare the baskets for sale. Stay tuned for the Wish List QR code and assembly date!
Also, as you clean up your yard this fall, please gather pinecones and boxwood cuttings for wreaths and other craft projects. We’ll advise where to drop them off soon.
Sewing Circle
Central’s sewing circle repairs, upcycles, and repurposes items – for themselves and charity. There are mending projects, sewing machines, ironing board, and supplies – or bring your own. All skill levels welcome. An experienced seamstress will be on hand to help. Contact Amy Hebb. Saturdays, Oct. 4 and 25, 10 am, in the Fireplace Room
Toward Better Christian Politics
This discussion group not only explores the Christian response to political polarization in America, but also how we can turn Christian views into action. Questions? Contact Paul Armstrong or Kristin DeKuiper. Sundays, Oct. 5 and 19, 12:15 pm, in the Youth Room and Fireplace Room, respectively.
Tuesdays With Scripture
Think of this as a weekly community devotional. Every Tuesday morning, we’ll discuss a short Bible passage. Each session is self-contained. Come to one or to all of them! Contact Claudia for a Zoom invitation. She’ll also send you the reading and questions to consider ahead of time. Tuesdays in October, 8 am, via Zoom
Food For Thought Book Group
Claudia’s book group will discuss “Tell Me Everything,” by Elizabeth Strout. Brimming with empathy and pathos, this novel illuminates the ways in which our relationships sustain us. Thursday, Oct. 9, 7 pm, in the Fireplace Room. Coming up on Nov. 7: “The Gardner Heist,” by Ulrich Boser
Women Gather
This month, Central’s women’s fellowship will meet to share a laugh or two … or three. Bring your favorite joke to share. Questions? Contact Claudia. Sunday, Oct. 12, 12 noon, at Hamilton House
Central Men’s Group
Open to all ages, Central Men’s Group is a monthly breakfast gathering – held on the third Thursday of each month – for fellowship and spirited conversation on topics ranging from current events and ethics to trends and shared experiences. If you have questions, contact John Trevor. Thursday, Oct. 16, 7:30 am, in the Fireplace Room
Fourth Thursday Book Group
This month, the Fourth Thursday Book Group will discuss “Coming Up Short: A Memoir of My America,” by political economist, cabinet member, professor, media pundit, and bestselling author Robert B. Reich. It is a compelling memoir of growing up in a baby-boom America that made progress in certain areas, fell short in so many important ways, and still has lots of work to do. For a Zoom invitation, email Ann Scott. Thursday, Oct. 23, 12:30 pm, via Zoom
REap: Growing Faith Together
Fall is the season of harvest. A time when gardens and fields are full of pumpkins, apples, and colorful leaves. It’s a reminder that what we plant and care for will grow. In our Religious Education program this October, we are celebrating this season with the theme “reap.”
To reap means to gather the good things that have been planted. Each week in class, children and youth are planting “seeds of faith” as they learn Bible stories, share questions, and talk about God’s love in their own lives. Just like seeds in the ground need sun and rain, seeds of faith need encouragement, prayer, and community to grow.
Families have an important role in this harvest! When you read Scripture together at home, pray at bedtime, or talk about kindness around the dinner table, you are watering those seeds. When you show up to worship, encourage your child to ask questions, and celebrate their discoveries, you are helping their faith grow strong and healthy. We also invite you to be part of the exciting activities we have planned this fall! From hands-on lessons and creative crafts to service projects as well as MIDWEEK gatherings, there are many opportunities to grow, laugh, and learn together. These moments help children see faith in action and remind us all that church is not only about learning but also about living God’s love in community.
This fall, we encourage you to make time for these small but powerful practices. Ask your child what they learned in class. Share your own stories of faith. Light a candle together at night, and thank God for the blessings of the day. If sharing doesn’t come easy for you, we got you! With the new curriculum, we have a calendar and devotionals to help with prompts to engage the kids. Please take one when you come pick your kids up on Sunday. Every little act of love and learning becomes part of the harvest we reap together as a church family.
Let’s give thanks for the joy of seeing our children grow in faith, just as we watch the world outside burst with color and abundance. May this season remind us that God’s love is always at work, planting, nurturing, and bringing forth a beautiful harvest in each of us.
With gratitude – Cristina
New App For Parents
There is an app that accompanies the new Children’s Church curriculum that helps parents stay engaged with their kids throughout the week. There are devotionals and prompts on the current theme and scripture, as well as access to age-appropriate activities and articles. The app is free – though you can upgrade for a cost. Contact Cristina for more information.
Kids Table at MIDWEEK
Kids Table at MIDWEEK is going strong. Kids and teens – including Central’s Children’s Choir – hang together for dinner at their own kid-friendly table in Chapel Hall. At 6:30 pm, choristers move to the Choir Room for their weekly rehearsal – while the others remain in Chapel Hall for crafts, games, and other activities. Wednesdays in October, 6 to 7:30 pm, in Chapel Hall
Pumpkin Picking!
All Central families are invited for pumpkin patch pickin’ and other fall/Halloween fun. Sunday, Oct. 12, 12 noon, at Four Town Farm (90 George Street, Seekonk, Mass.)
Young Adult Gathering
Young adults age 18 and up are invited to join a relaxed, open conversation about life and faith. Life is too big to walk alone – let’s journey together! We’ll connect, share stories, and build community along the way. Bring your questions, bring a friend … everyone’s welcome! The group will meet on the fourth Thursday of each month. Questions? Contact Cristina. Thursday, Oct. 23, 6 pm, in the Fireplace Room
Thanks to Cristina …
her steering committee, and all of the Block Party Central volunteers for making our first annual event such a success! Check out the pdf newsletter for two pages of photographs of our fabulous block party. (Photos courtesy of Jim Scott)
In the Gallery
This October, the Gallery at Central will present “Robert O. Thornton: Faces on the Edge.” This show – in celebration of Mr. Thornton’s 102nd birthday – features paintings that are just a little eerie in style … perfect for a Halloween exhibition.
Mr. Thornton’s early technique, formed with a wry edge and cynical opinion of the human psyche, extends familiar forms of anatomy and places to create darkly humorous compositions in which two-dimensional design overrides accurate portraiture. Later investigations capture darker political themes – or provide contrast in the softness of impressionistic Rhode Island seascapes.
After serving in World War II, Mr. Thornton returned to Rhode Island. He attended the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, married, had three children, and began to paint.
He took a day job to support his family, working as the RISD Museum photographer and painting nights and weekends. For 37 years, his works appeared annually at the RISD Faculty Exhibition. He also had many private sales along the way. Most recently, his work has been shown in Fox Point’s Bert Gallery.
Meet the artist at the opening reception on Friday, Oct. 3, 5 pm, in the Gallery.
Friday Film Fare
Some people in history seem more a force of nature than human being. Some people seem truly touched by the hand of God. One such person was the astonishing Harriet Tubman (Cynthia Erivo in an epic performance). Tubman was born and raised in slavery, escaped from slavery, and then ventured back repeatedly to rescue scores of enslaved people in seemingly miraculous missions. The slave owners called the mysterious figure “Moses.” And like that liberator of old, she led her people to freedom. Harriet (2019) is a meticulous as well as harrowing recreation of an era America must forever remember. [125 minutes; color; PG-13] Join host Jim Silverthorn on Friday, Oct. 17, at 7:30 pm, in the Fireplace Room.
Poetry Corner: The Journey is Long Without a Song
A melody escapes our lips
And touches hearts
We cry and laugh and yearn
With others we raise our voices
In love, in praise, in protest
We sing in the car with the radio
We are moved by a hymn in Church
We dance to Motown in the kitchen
Where no one can see.
Beach Boys, Bach, Bocelli
Bringing a smile, a tear, or a thrill
And our lives are better
Because the journey is long without a song.
– Charrell Maxwell
Save the Date: Festival Service of Thanksgiving
Bring a friend and share our warm, wonderful, and musical service of Worship: Sunday, Nov. 23, at 10:30 am.
October Events
| 1 | Amos House Breakfast Volunteers | 6:30 am |
| Gallery Committee | 9:30 am | |
| MIDWEEK | 6 pm | |
| Kids Table at MIDWEEK | 6 pm | |
| Children’s Choir Rehearsal | 6:30 pm | |
| 2 | Board of Deacons | 5:45 pm |
| Choir Rehearsal | 7:30 pm | |
| 3 | Gallery Opening | 5 pm |
| 4 | Sewing Circle | 10 am |
| 5 | Nursery Opens | 9 am |
| Adult Sunday School | 9 am | |
| Stewardship Committee | 9:15 am | |
| Christmas at Central Meeting | 9:45 am | |
| World Communion Sunday | 10:30 am | |
| Children’s Church | 10:30 am | |
| Religious Education Committee | 12 noon | |
| Toward Better Christian Politics | 12:15 pm | |
| Blessing of the Animals | 2 pm | |
| 7 | Tuesdays With Scripture | 8 am |
| Prudential Committee | 7 pm | |
| 8 | Amos House Breakfast Volunteers | 6:30 am |
| MIDWEEK | 6 pm | |
| Kids Table at MIDWEEK | 6 pm | |
| Children’s Choir Rehearsal | 6:30 pm | |
| 9 | Food for Thought Book Group | 7 pm |
| Choir Rehearsal | 7:30 pm | |
| 12 | Nursery Opens | 9 am |
| Adult Sunday School | 9 am | |
| Worship | 10:30 am | |
| Children’s Church | 10:30 am | |
| Inquirers’ Meeting | 11:45 am | |
| Pumpkin Picking | 12 noon | |
| Women Gather | 12 noon | |
| 14 | Tuesdays With Scripture | 8 am |
| 15 | Amos House Breakfast Volunteers | 6:30 am |
| MIDWEEK | 6 pm | |
| Kids Table at MIDWEEK | 6 pm | |
| Children’s Choir Rehearsal | 6:30 pm | |
| 16 | Central Men’s Group | 7:30 am |
| Choir Rehearsal | 7:30 pm | |
| 17 | Friday Film Fare | 7:30 pm |
| 19 | Nursery Opens | 9 am |
| Adult Sunday School | 9 am | |
| Children’s Church | 10:30 am | |
| New Member Sunday | 10:30 am | |
| New Member Potluck Luncheon | 11:30 am | |
| Toward Better Christian Politics | 12:15 pm | |
| Flower Committee | 7 pm | |
| 20 | Newsletter Deadline | 3:30 pm |
| Mission & Action Committee | 6:30 pm | |
| Technology Committee | 7 pm | |
| 21 | Tuesdays With Scripture | 8 am |
| Plant, Properties and Design Committee | 5:45 pm | |
| Prudential Committee | 7 pm | |
| 22 | Amos House Breakfast Volunteers | 6:30 am |
| MIDWEEK | 6 pm | |
| Kids Table at MIDWEEK | 6 pm | |
| Children’s Choir Rehearsal | 6:30 pm | |
| 23 | Fourth Thursday Book Group | 12:30 pm |
| Young Adult Gathering | 6 pm | |
| Music Committee | 6:30 pm | |
| Choir Rehearsal | 7:30 pm | |
| 24 | CCC Women’s Retreat | 4 pm |
| 25 | Sewing Circle | 10 am |
| 26 | Nursery Opens | 9 am |
| Adult Sunday School | 9 am | |
| Worship | 10:30 am | |
| Children’s Church / Halloween Costume Day | 10:30 am | |
| Special Service of Music | 4 pm | |
| 28 | Tuesdays With Scripture | 8 am |
| 29 | Amos House Breakfast Volunteers | 6:30 am |
| MIDWEEK | 6 pm | |
| Kids Table at MIDWEEK | 6 pm | |
| Children’s Choir Rehearsal | 6:30 pm | |
| 30 | Choir Rehearsal | 7:30 pm |
The Church Office will be closed on Monday, Oct. 13, for Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day