Central News
Apr 2022 Vol. 30, No. 8
Download the PDF version of this Newsletter
Join Us for Sunday Worship at 10:30 am!
From Rebecca
Dear friends, Easter comes, as it does, on the dark heels of Lent … carrying with it the strength of hope and new dawn, the power of God’s grace, the invitation to each of us for new life – here and now and forever.
While we need that strength and power and invitation every year, this year seems especially important to shout “Alleluia. Christ is Risen.” We share the dream that people of all nations, times, and places may live in peace and freedom. And we work together for that dream. Mary Oliver writes in her poem, “Why I Wake Early”:
Hello, sun in my face.
Hello, you who make the morning
and spread it over the fields
and into the faces of the tulips
and the nodding morning glories,
and into the windows of, even, the
miserable and the crotchety –
best preacher that ever was,
dear star, that just happens
to be where you are in the universe
to keep us from ever-darkness,
to ease us with warm touching,
to hold us in the great hands of light –
good morning, good morning, good morning.
Watch, now, how I start the day
in happiness, in kindness.
And even stronger than happiness and kindness, Easter brings us the courage of hope in the God Who does indeed make the morning and sets the stars in the skies, and Who has made each one of us. This is the God Who out of nothing has made this beautiful yet broken world we share. This is the God Whose Son rose so that each of us might have that courageous hope. Hope that outlasts suffering. Hope that conquers fear. Hope that beats evil, every time.
Christ is risen! And so we celebrate the gift of new life in His name, we Christians. We who pray for peace for all. We who believe in goodness that triumphs over all darkness. Christ is risen! He is risen indeed!
Come celebrate life … here at Central as we gather to praise God together on Easter morning. Yours, in Easter faith and hope – Rebecca
Spring Yard Sale Fundraiser
Central’s first ever Yard Sale will take place on Saturday, May 21, on the West Lawn. Ten percent of the proceeds will benefit Ukraine relief or UCC’s mission in Haiti – and CCC Youth will sell food to raise funds for their summer mission trip. But to make the Yard Sale the great success we know it can be, we need you!
We need volunteers to perform a variety of tasks: collect donations, price and organize sale items, set up, and sell on the day of the Yard Sale.
We are looking for donations – in good/working condition – in these categories:
- Artwork and Posters
- Baby Equipment (no cribs)
- Books, Records, CDs, and DVDs
- Electronics
- Furniture
- Housewares and Tableware
- Jewelry
- Knickknacks
- Linens
- Luggage
- Sports Equipment
- Toys and Games (no stuffed animals)
Finally, we need dry storage spaces near the church to house donations prior to the sale – since Chapel Hall cannot be used for storage.
We will begin accepting sale items after Easter, Apr. 17. (We will not be selling clothes at the Yard Sale, but Central is always happy to accept clothing donations for Camp Street Ministries.)
To donate or volunteer, call the Church Office (401-331-1960) or contact one of the sale organizers: Nancy and Wayne Gage, Heidi and Bill Iuliano, Frances Munro, and Liz and Tom Viall.
Holy Week at Central
Holy Week is an extraordinary opportunity to give our hearts, lives, and gifts in response to God’s generosity – and to deepen our spiritual lives through prayer, scripture, and music. We welcome everyone to join us in this joyous and profound week of Easter celebrations.
Sunday, April 10: Palm Sunday
To remember Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, the children of the church – with palm fronds and donkey in tow – will lead the congregation on a joyous procession around the block. We will enter the church for Worship, accompanied by Central’s magnificent organ and choir. 10:10 am: Outside on Diman Place
Thursday, April 14: Maundy Thursday Service of Tenebrae
We will gather for this solemn, contemplative service of Tenebrae, which recalls the Last Supper through scripture readings and a cappella music. This profound service ends in quiet and total darkness. Communion will be served. 7:30 pm: Sanctuary
Friday, April 15: Good Friday Service of Music
We remember Jesus’ death on the cross with a special service of music featuring John Rutter’s “Requiem,” performed by the Central Congregational Church Choir with soprano soloist and instrumental ensemble. 12 noon: Sanctuary
Saturday, April 16: Easter Vigil
This meditative, candlelit service is traditional in every way except length. Lasting about 45 minutes (instead of all night), it includes a service of the light, service of the Word, service of baptism, and service of communion. 7:30 pm: West Lawn (Wilson Chapel, in case of inclement weather)
Sunday, April 17
Easter Sunrise Service
This ecumenical service – prepared by CCC Youth – will be held at daybreak. 6 am: Swan Point Cemetery
Easter Breakfast
Before Worship, the Central church family will gather for breakfast prepared by CCC Youth. Funds raised benefit their summer mission trip. 9 am: Chapel Hall
Easter Egg Hunt
The Easter Egg Hunt, planned by NEOS and held out on the West Lawn, is for children in fifth grade and under. But all are welcome to watch the fun! 9:45 am: Fireplace Room
Easter Festival Service of Worship
This joyous, music-filled service – our choir accompanied by organ, brass and timpani – reaches mind and heart to acknowledge the faith that is so much greater than ourselves. 10:10 am: Preludes, 10:30 am: Worship
Musical Notes
The spiritual power of Central Congregational Church’s choir and historic pipe organ elevate and inform Worship every Sunday, helping inspire our congregation to deeper faith – but never more so than during the weeks leading up to Easter.
Sunday, April 3: The choir will sing the opening movement of the “St. John Passion” by J.S. Bach, accompanied by organ and two oboes. You will feel the tension in the musical lines that go from dark to light, but always with a feeling of foreboding doom. The music paints the words, “Show us through Your passion that You, the true Son of God, at all times, even in this lowly state, are glorified.”
Palm Sunday: Once again we’ll hear a favorite, “The Palms” by Jean Baptiste Fauré as we “join all and sing” the chorus together. The choir will sing a thundering version of Psalm 24 by Lili Boulanger, which contains the famous words from verse 9, “Lift up your heads, O gates! And lift them up, O ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in” – so appropriate this Sunday as we process outdoors to welcome Jesus into the church.
Maundy Thursday: For Tenebrae, we’ll sing the music of Christ’s trial and passion, introducing a striking yet disturbing new piece by James MacMillan from “Cantos Sagrados,” featuring the poetry of Argentine-Chilean-American poet Ariel Dorfman.
The text narrates a political prisoner’s execution by firing squad – a startling parallel to Jesus Christ, another prisoner who suffered execution for political reasons. God’s mercy and compassion show forth in the gentle but firm touch of a reluctant yet duty-bound soldier tying the prisoner’s hands and through the guard entreating the prisoner to forgive him. The story is told coupled with traditional religious text in Latin, “He became incarnate of the Virgin Mary and was made man. For our sake He was crucified.”
Good Friday: We will present John Rutter’s “Requiem” – a musical setting of parts of the Latin Requiem with added psalms and Biblical verses in English – with choir, soprano solo, and instrumental ensemble.
Easter Sunday: We will thrill to the jubilation of the resurrection with music that matches its glory! Preludes begin at 10:10 am. Classic Easter hymns include “Jesus Christ is Risen Today,” “Welcome Happy Morning,” and “The Strife is O’er.” The choir will sing a thrilling anthem, “Light’s Glittering Morn Bedecks the Skies” by Horatio Parker, as well as the “Hallelujah Chorus.” The service closes with perennial favorite “Toccata” by Charles-Marie Widor on the organ.
Memorial Easter Flowers
Remember your loved ones this Easter with Memorial Flowers. The suggested donation is $40 each. Remembrances received by Monday, Apr. 4, at 12 noon will be included in the Holy Week and Easter Sunday orders of worship.
Lenten Meditation
This year’s final Lenten Meditation – when Central member Don Wolfe will share his journey of faith – will take place Wednesday, Apr. 6, 5:30 pm, Wilson Chapel.
Choir Rehearsal
This month, the choir will rehearse on Thursday, Apr. 7, 7:30 pm; Saturday, April 9, 9 am; Tuesday, Apr.12, 7:30 pm; and Thursday, Apr. 28, 7:30 pm.
CCC Youth
Spring Church Clean-up: Teens are encouraged to take part in caring for our church. Your energy, enthusiasm, and strength are needed! Saturday, Apr. 9, 9 am to 12 noon
Egg Decorating: It isn’t just for little kids. Many cultures have traditions of egg decoration long been associated with Easter as a symbol of new life. Plus, the way we do it at Central is just plain fun. Saturday, Apr. 9, 1 pm, Chapel Hall
Easter Breakfast
As the sun climbs in the morning sky and we celebrate that Christ has risen, start off your Easter with a delicious, well-balanced breakfast prepared by CCC Youth! Donations of $5 per person, $25 per family, will be graciously accepted. All proceeds benefit this summer’s youth mission trip to Appalachia. Sunday, Apr. 17, 9 to 10 am, in Chapel Hall
Egg Decorating … in Memory of Ann Bliven
On Saturday, Apr. 9, from 1 to 4 pm, Central will once again host Easter Egg Decorating in memory of Ann Bliven, who was a Central member for more than 50 years.
Ann was a force of nature at Central – with a fierce smile and beautiful white hair – known to many as the “Egg Lady.” Over the years, she often gathered families and friends together to paint eggs at Eastertime, sharing her special decorating technique – which makes blown-out (hollow) eggs so durable, they can be used year after year for hiding or display.
We’ll provide the paints (water-based) and other supplies. All you need to bring is a dozen or more blown-out eggs – and, if you like, empty egg cartons, a favorite paintbrush, and a hair dryer.
This event is for all ages. Ann would want everyone to participate – or at least to come and watch the festivities – as we enjoy a tradition rooted in community and the joy of creativity. We will meet in Chapel Hall.
Special thanks to Torin Mathieu for reviving and organizing this wonderful Easter tradition!
How to Blow Out Eggs
Use a large, clean safety pin, sewing needle, or skewer to poke holes in both ends of the egg.
Make the hole on the bottom of the egg a little larger – about 1/8″ – so it will be easier to blow out the contents.
Insert the pin and wiggle it around to break up the yolk.
Using the smaller hole, blow the egg contents into a bowl. (Then use them to make scrambled eggs or omelets!)
Wash blown-out eggs in warm water, and pat dry. Set the eggs on a paper towel placed in the egg tray or carton, so they can drain and dry overnight.
Check out Google and YouTube for additional egg-blowing tips.
In memory of Ann, who was always giving to others, please bring some “kid’s food” – Cheerios, peanut butter, jelly, powdered milk, etc. – for Camp Street Ministries.
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, Rebecca Spencer, 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 Rebecca will get in touch.
Inquirers’ Meeting
Wednesday, April 20, 7 pm
Faith Exploration
Tuesday, April 26, 7 pm
New Member Sunday
Sunday, May 1, 10:30 am
The Deacon’s Bench
I entered Central on Ash Wednesday with several thoughts floating throughout my mind. First, I realized that in all my years at Central I had surprisingly never been to the Ash Wednesday service, a beautiful and somber service. Second, I chastised myself for my far-too-long absence from this home of ours and God’s. Third, I departed realizing how much I had missed this place, this community, its music, its beauty, but most importantly its people and our mutual love and celebration of and dedication to God.
Ash Wednesday means many things to people of faith, but it is a reminder of the need for confession of sins and reconciliation with God. It dawned on me that for far too long, I had been absent from the sanctuary. I had continued to participate in periodic committee meetings, in Zoom Bible studies and gatherings, but had not been present with all of you, had not been present with God in the way I should have been. I had a litany of excuses, some legitimate, like family gatherings out of town. Others not so much, like a self-indulgent annoyance, or intolerance with mask mandates, or other restrictions, or just an undisciplined general failure to get “back into the habit” of going each Sunday after lockdown.
But Lent is a time of repentance and reflection, leading up to the rebirth, new life, and renewal of Easter. It is recognition of God’s forgiveness of our human failings, and the ultimate sacrifice, which gives us eternal life. I hope to use this period of reflection, confession, and forgiveness to rededicate myself to God and to His church, to the people and place of Central Congregational Church. To pray for all of us and those suffering throughout the world, including the people of Ukraine. And to recommit myself to God’s work.
Join me in bringing yourself back to Central … or in renewing your faith, regardless of where you stand in your journey. Join me in bringing yourself back home. – Tracy Baran
Help Ukraine
Since Russia invaded Ukraine last month, people around the world have mobilized, actively working to provide food, shelter, medical supplies, and support to the Ukrainian people – instead of simply watching in horror and desperation.
Major protests and demonstrations in support of Ukraine’s right to independence have taken place outside of Russian embassies across the globe. Celebrities and “civilians” alike have made major donations, set up matching contributions, kick-started GoFundMe campaigns, and used videos, radio ads, and social media platforms to support this humanitarian crisis.
Right in our own backyard, two Harvard students – Avi Schiffmann and Marco Burstein – have launched Ukraine Take Shelter (www.ukrainetakeshelter.com). Created in only three days, the website connects Ukrainian refugees with potential hosts and housing around the world. More than 4,000 hosts signed up the first week, and the numbers continue to grow. (The Washington Post, March 10, 2022)
Here at Central, our hearts and minds are also with the people of Ukraine. Wherever we are and whenever we can, we pray for our beautiful and broken world and all God’s children within it. We pray for hope and healing to prevail over violence and anger. We pray for all who are in harm’s way, and we act with strength and courage to pursue paths that lead to peace for all.
The Reverend Rebecca Spencer has re-searched five organizations with proven track records providing shelter, food, medical care, and other support to war refugees and internally displaced people.
- UCC Ukraine Relief Fund: https://support.ucc.org
- Doctors Without Borders: www.doctorswithoutborders.org
- International Rescue Committee: https://help.rescue.org/ukraine
- Samaritan’s Purse: www.samaritanspurse.org
- UNICEF USA: www.unicefusa.org
One Egg a Day
On Palm Sunday, Central church schoolers will lead a special offering for the Egg-a-Day Child Nutrition Program, formerly OneEgg Haiti. Please pick up a plastic egg as you enter the sanctuary and return it on Easter Sunday with your donation inside. A $60 contribution will provide a child with much needed protein: one egg a day for an entire year! (The mission also teaches poultry farming skills, providing local employment.) You will help children learn about child hunger around the world while teaching them we can ease the pain and provide hope when we work together.
Spring Church Clean-up
It’s time to get Central’s building and grounds in top shape for Holy Week! Projects range from polishing and dusting to raking leaves and moving furniture. Choose the task you want to tackle. Many hands not only make light work, they also strengthen our community and deepen friendships. Plus, we’ll have refreshments for all! Saturday, Apr. 9, 9 am to 12 noon – or whenever you can stop by.
The Sacrament of Baptism
Baptism is the beginning of Christian faith and life – and a vital part of our worship together. If you would like to be included in this celebration of love and acceptance into the care of Christ’s church, please speak to the Rev. Rebecca Spencer. We will be offering Baptisms on Sunday, April 24. There will be a gathering for those wishing to be baptized on Saturday, Apr. 9, 10 am, Fireplace Room.
One Great Hour of Sharing
On Palm Sunday, Central will collect a special mission offering for One Great Hour of Sharing. This UCC-wide fundraiser helps people – in places of poverty, hunger, sickness, conflict, emergency, and natural disaster throughout the world – help themselves with holistic development programs that include health care, education, agriculture, food sustainability, microfinancing, and women’s empowerment. Sunday, Apr. 10, 10:30 am
Memorial Services
Please join us as we celebrate the lives of Henry Magendantz on Friday, Apr. 8, at 3 pm – and Ruth Edwards on Saturday, Apr. 30, at 11 am.
In Memoriam
Our prayers and sympathy are with the family and friends of Ruth Edwards … and with Michael Fournier and family on the death of his father, Eugene Fournier. Requiescat in pace
From Claudia
As I write this, I am halfway through the first month of my sabbatical. As you would expect, I’ve immersed myself in reading. What a joy. This time has also been full of connections with all sorts of family and friends, some of which were anticipated and some of which were unexpected. The time spent with each one has been refreshing and renewing for me. And, immersing myself in reading always restores my soul. A double blessing!
I’ve spent time with my two grandsons, who are growing like little weeds. They are such joys for my husband and me. Felix was a pretend leprechaun on St. Patrick’s Day, passing out wishes to us, while his younger brother Cole explored my husband’s truck, spelling out T-A-C-O-M-A on its side. When asked what his own leprechaun wish was, Felix replied, “No war and no garbage.” Succinctly put for a newly minted six-year-old.
I have enjoyed the gift of leisure with so many. One friend from junior high school (remember when it was called that?) and I met a few years ago after 40-some years with no contact. We finally got together last Saturday for a wonderful reunion and promised to do it again soon. By the way, her son was a guest section leader at Patrick’s beautiful service of music in February. She and I had lots to talk about from the past and from the present!
I look forward to being with all of you for a few weeks at the beginning of April through Easter – and to Holy Week and our Easter Sunday celebration. As we gather at the Vigil the night before Easter, we will light the fire (hopefully in the fire pit on the West Lawn, if the weather cooperates) and proclaim the end of the darkness of the tomb. We know that even though the world can be a very dark place, it will never overcome the light of Christ.
May we carry that light with us into the world as we serve our Savior in a time that is admittedly deeply concerning. May we connect with Christians around the world as together we witness the great, good news of Christ’s resurrection and the new life that brings. And, may we sing our alleluias knowing in deep and profound ways that the darkness is overcome … again and again and again. Yours in Easter faith – Claudia
Chapel Hall: Brand New at 130-Years-Old
Exactly 130 years ago – on Easter Sunday, April 17, 1892 – Chapel Hall (then known as Memorial Hall) was first used as a temporary sanctuary for worship. Central Congregational Church’s new building on Angell Street was under construction, and it would be months before the sanctuary we worship in today would be completed.
More than a century later, in January 2020, the Central community voted to embark on a bold new venture: Reimagining Chapel Hall. We asked God’s blessing as we planned for the future, understanding that patience, persistence – and philanthropy – would create the desired outcome.
With dedicated and prayerful community input, as well as design and construction expertise, the transformation of Chapel Hall has unfolded over these many months, and it is nothing short of breathtaking! The excitement mounts every week as new light and lighting, soft paint colors, wood floor, elegant architectural elements, and more have been installed in the reimagined space. The energy is palpable. You’ll feel it during coffee hour and see it in the children’s faces as they scamper up and down the new stage steps.
While finishing details may take another two to three months, celebrating this Easter milestone is an important part of the anticipation and joy of our reimagined Chapel Hall. Come see for yourself, and celebrate 130 years of Chapel Hall’s service not only to Central Congregational Church, but also the community at large!
Women’s Retreat Group
The women of Central are invited to gather in solidarity to pray and check in the first Monday of every month. Monday, Apr. 4, 7 pm, via Zoom. Contact Claudia for an invitation.
Food For Thought Book Group
Our book this month is Reading Across Rhode Island’s 2022 selection, “Firekeeper’s Daughter,” by Angeline Boulley. Author Francisco X. Stork wrote, “A rare and mesmerizing work that blends the power of a vibrant tradition with the aches and energy of today’s America, this book will leave you breathless!” Thursday, Apr. 7, 7 pm, via Zoom. Contact Claudia for an invitation.
Adult Sunday School
We’ll continue to focus on “The Story of the Jews,” a compelling argument about distinctiveness and difference, separation and isolation, tolerance and prejudice. Yet it is also a celebration of the ways in which Jewish thought, Jewish imagination, and Jewish achievement have transformed the world for us all. Questions? Ask Claudia. Sunday, Apr.10, 9 am, Fireplace Room
Women Gather
This month, we’re asking each person in our women’s fellowship group to write on a piece of paper something that no one will know about her. Then, as each is read, we will try to figure out whom that person is. Stories and laughter will ensue, and we’ll get to know each other better and better. Sunday, Apr. 10, 11:45 am, Fireplace Room.
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. Questions? Contact Ed Bishop at 401-274-4666. Thursday, Apr. 21, 7:30 am, Fireplace Room
Rebecca’s Book Group
Take part in a lively discussion about “Mala’s Cat,” by Mala Kacenberg. In this beautifully written World War II memoir, Kacenberg shares her harrowing and courageous story of surviving the Holocaust. Thursday, Apr. 28, 12:30 pm, via Zoom. Contact Rebecca for an invitation.
Save The Date
The World’s Greatest Pancake Breakfast – Scout Troop 28’s one and only annual fundraiser is back after a two-year hiatus. Mark your calendar for Saturday, May 7, from 8 am to 12 noon, in Chapel Hall.
Children and Spirituality
People often think it is difficult to pray with children, that children need to be taught how to pray, and even that children are not capable of having a prayer life.
I disagree. Children have a rich prayer life, just not in the same way teens and adults do. Children have a very natural and innate sense of the divine. It is up to us to help give them words to express what they are experiencing, help guide them in their understanding, and help strengthen their connection with the Sacred.
Whenever a child shows delight or awe in a natural event, help them verbally connect that to God. This is done with a simple “Thank you, God” and for older children “Thank you, God, for all the wonders and mysteries of creation.” You could even add “Help us treat the world with love and care as you want us to do.”
When children show concern for someone, lift the concern up to God. When I was working with four- and five-year-olds, our classroom was on the corner one block from the hospital. Whenever an ambulance went by with the sirens blaring, the children and I would stop what we were doing and pray for the person in the ambulance as well as the medics, nurses, and doctors.
No special skills are needed, just a personal prayer life and connection with God. Simply listen carefully to what the children are saying and help them verbally connect their experience and feelings with God. Use what is happening in the child’s world in that moment.
If you do not know where to begin, try a simple family grace at mealtime such as, “God is great. God is good. Let us thank God for our food. Amen.” Another idea that works well with both older and younger children is giving everyone at the table an opportunity to name something good in their day. Close with a simple “Thank you God for all our blessings.” This can then be expanded. Family members could share negative experiences, difficulties, their concerns, their hopes, their fears, their dreams.… This is a wonderful way to show that we can take everything to God. It helps strengthen connection with the divine, while also increasing communication and understanding within the family.
The church school has books which are good resources. If you would like to discuss it further, I am always available and can be reached by email, text or phone.
Peace and blessings – Judy
Mission Trip Meeting
On Thursday, April 7 at 7 pm, Judy will host a Zoom meeting for CCC youth, parents, and any other adults interested in this summer’s mission trip to Zanesville, Ohio, in northern Appalachia.
We’ll talk about where we’re going and the kinds of work we are going to do – and discuss the trip’s financing. We’ll review travel plans, as well as safety precautions. Finally, we’ll begin talking through expectations – of the youth, adults, program, and trip in general. Please bring any and all questions. We’ll answer them the best we can. And if we don’t know the answer, we’ll do some research and get back to you.
This mission trip is open to all high schoolers, including those who have just finished the eighth grade, as well as 2022 high school graduates. Adults of all ages are also welcome, but chaperones must be at least 24-years-old – per UCC’s Safe Church Conduct.
Contact Judy Martowska or Larry Kellam for a Zoom invitation.
Pancake Breakfast
Scout Troop 28’s popular Pancake Breakfast is back after a two-year hiatus! Parents usually do the cooking, and scouts – in Class A uniforms – do the serving. We need participation from both to make this fundraiser a success. Please volunteer to work – more than one shift, if you can.
- Setup: Thursday, May 5, 5 to 7 pm
- Setup and Food Preparation: Friday, May 6, 5 to 7 pm
- First Breakfast Shift: Saturday, May 7, 7 to 10 am
- Second Breakfast Shift: Saturday May 7, 9 am to 12 noon
Contact Bob Azar (robert.e.azar@gmail.com) to help.
Friday Film Fare
“If you take the elements that make good television and do the opposite, you have ‘Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood.’” So remarked the producer of the children’s show phenomenon. At the center of this unlikely conglomeration was an unlikely star: Fred Rogers, the un-assuming Presbyterian minister, writer, host, and creative genius who repeatedly took children’s television beyond limits not seen before or since. “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” is a masterful and moving documentary of a man with a mission … of kindness. [94 minutes, color, PG-13, 2018] Friday, Apr. 22, 7:30 pm, Fireplace Room
WORD
April is a fun and action-packed month for Central’s high school fellowship:
WORD Lock-In – We’ll have supper, play games, plan for Easter, and talk about our summer mission trip. On Sunday morning, we’ll enjoy breakfast and attend Worship together. Bring your friends! Saturday, Apr. 2, 5 pm
Easter Breakfast / Sunrise Service – We’ll start planning our breakfast fundraiser and preparing for the Easter Sunrise Service, which will be held at daybreak in Swan Point Cemetery. Sunday, Apr. 10, 11:45 am
It’s a SPAM Afternoon – We’ll enjoy soda, pizza, and a movie. It’s the ideal way to end spring break, relax, and re-energize for the last months of school. And don’t forget to send Judy your movie recommendations! Sunday, Apr. 24, 11:45 am, Fireplace Room
Confirmation Class
The Confirmation Class will meet only once this month due to the Easter holiday. The topic: “The First Easter – Resurrection.” Sunday, Apr. 3, 11:30 am
Teen Tuesdays
Judy is at the church every Tuesday, morning and afternoon. Teens are welcome to drop by – to say hi, talk sports, “speak geek,” study, share whatever is on their minds, or just hang out. Tuesday, Apr. 5, 12, 19, and 26 – all day –Church School Wing
NEOS
Our middle school fellowship will organize this year’s Easter Egg Hunt. We’ll meet to discuss the hunt and fill the Easter eggs. (And it’s okay if some of the candy makes it into your mouth instead of into the eggs!) Sunday, Apr. 10, 11:45 am, Fireplace Room We’ll hide the eggs out on the West Lawn and then stay to help the children as they hunt! Easter Sunday, Apr. 17, 9:20 am, Fireplace Room
Playgroup
At Central’s playgroup for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, children enjoy a variety of creative activities – games, crafts, music – and snacks. As the children play together, parents and grandparents can talk, share experiences, and support one another in the journey of parenthood. Friends are always welcome! Tuesday, Apr. 19, 10 am, Church School Wing. Since this is spring break week for many, elementary school children are also welcome to attend.
April Events
| 2 | WORD Lock-In | 5 pm |
| 3 | Stewardship Committee | 9:15 am |
| Worship | 10:30 am | |
| Church School | 10:30 am | |
| Confirmation Class | 11:30 am | |
| 4 | Women’s Retreat Group | 7 pm |
| 5 | Teen Tuesday | all day |
| 6 | Gallery Committee | 9:30 am |
| Lenten Meditation | 5:30 pm | |
| 7 | Food for Thought Book Group | 7 pm |
| Mission Trip Meeting | 7 pm | |
| Choir Rehearsal | 7:30 pm | |
| 9 | Spring Church Clean-Up | 9 am |
| Choir Rehearsal | 9 am | |
| Baptism Meeting | 10 am | |
| Easter Egg Decorating | 1 pm | |
| 10 | Adult Sunday School | 9 am |
| Palm Sunday Procession | 10:10 am | |
| Palm Sunday Worship | 10:30 am | |
| Church School | 10:30 am | |
| NEOS and WORD | 11:45 am | |
| Women Gather | 11:45 am | |
| 12 | Board of Deacons | 5:45 pm |
| Teen Tuesday | all day | |
| Choir Rehearsal | 7:30 pm | |
| 14 | Maundy Thursday Service | 7:30 pm |
| 15 | Good Friday Service of Music | 12 noon |
| 16 | Easter Vigil | 7:30 pm |
| 17 | Easter Sunrise Celebration | 6 am |
| Easter Breakfast | 9 am | |
| Easter Egg Hunt | 9:45 am | |
| Easter Preludes | 10:10 am | |
| Easter Sunday Festival Service of Worship | 10: 30 am | |
| Church School | 10:30 am | |
| 19 | Playgroup | 10 am |
| Teen Tuesday | all day | |
| Plant & Properties | 5:45 pm | |
| Prudential Committee | 7 pm | |
| 20 | Chapel Hall Design Committee | 5 pm |
| Inquirers’ Meeting | 7 pm | |
| 21 | Central Men’s Group | 7:30 am |
| 22 | Friday Film Fare | 7:30 pm |
| 24 | Heritage Sunday Worship | 10:30 am |
| Church School | 10:30 am | |
| WORD | 11:45 am | |
| 25 | Technology Committee | 7 pm |
| 26 | Teen Tuesday | all day |
| Faith Exploration | 7 pm | |
| 27 | Board of Trustees | 4 pm |
| 28 | Rebecca’s Book Group | 12:30 pm |
| Choir Rehearsal | 7:30 pm |