Central News
Jan 2022 Vol. 30, No. 5
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From Rebecca
January. A new year. A fresh chapter. Resolutions. A perfect way to put down this tired old year and to think ahead. To plan. To dream.
The star gleamed in the skies to the east after Jesus’ birth and guided the Magi to His manger with their mysterious gifts: frankincense, gold, and myrrh. Who can forget that precious line in our children’s pageant when one asks, “Myrrh?? What is that for?” And the calm reply from another child, “For embalming, of course!”
So too, we ask, what are we to do with these marvelous gifts we have been given? Gifts of love and laughter and life itself. Here is one answer, from Alice Walker in her classic book, “The Color Purple.”
She say, Celie, tell the truth,
have you ever found God in church?
I never did,
I just found a bunch of folks
hoping for him to show.
Any God I ever felt in church
I brought with me.
And I think
all the other folks did too.
They come to church
to SHARE God,
not find God.
As we remember baptisms and memorial services, pageants and mission trips, coffee hour conversations, and hymns sung and prayers whispered, may we remember in 2022 that real church comes from the old promise that reminds us, “When two or three are gathered together in God’s name, God is always there.”
Central Congregational Church may be an earthen vessel that inspires us with its beauty of tile, arches and stained glass, but it is within that vessel we find a very great treasure.
See you in the new year. With love – Rebecca
Nurturing Stewardship
We at Central Congregational Church are all proud of the record of service that the church provides to our community. These services range from support for Amos House and Crossroads Rhode Island, to our partnership with the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF), and our hosting of the Scouts, Alcoholic Anonymous, and many other service, educational, and cultural organizations and activities.
These services are not only important to the community, but also to the life of our church. But they don’t happen by themselves. They need our support in the form of time and money. The Stewardship committee asks you to prayerfully consider your 2022/23 pledge and to fully participate in these important activities in the coming year. – Don Wolfe on behalf of the Stewardship Committee
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, January 26, 7 pm
Faith Exploration
Tuesday, February 1, 7 pm
New Member Sunday
Sunday, February 6, 10:30 am
Leadership Development
Calling all committee chairs! As Central moves beyond COVID-19 restrictions and face-to-face activities resume, the Leadership Development Committee will help committee chairs prepare for and optimize their monthly meetings – while also serving as a resource for those interested in taking on leadership roles at Central. Sunday, Jan. 9, 11:45 am, in the Fireplace Room
Tentative Budget Approval Meeting
Your presence and input are crucial to the annual Tentative Budget Approval Meeting. The budget determines what we can accomplish as a church during the coming fiscal year and enables us to keep our sanctuary alive with worship, music, fellowship, mission, and outreach. We’ll share updates on the Chapel Hall capital campaign and construction, as well as other church initiatives. Thanks for your attendance and participation! Sunday, Jan. 30, 11:30 am, in the Sanctuary
New Member Reception
Welcome new members to the Central family during Worship and then stay after for an informal reception in Chapel Hall. Instead of the usual sit-down luncheon, we’re hosting a stand-up potluck buffet. This way, it will be easier to stay masked and social distanced, as well as mingle with new members – see if you can meet them all! – and check out Chapel Hall construction. Please help the Membership Committee by bringing your favorite finger foods (wrapped, please). Sunday, Feb. 6, 11:30 am, in Chapel Hall.
The Deacon’s Bench
Dear Friends, by the time you read this letter in January, you may have made your New Year’s Resolutions or at least have been thinking about them, as I have. My resolution is “to reduce waste.” At the November Deacons’ meeting, we discussed ways that we as a faith community could be better stewards of God’s earth. We spoke of recycling; one deacon suggested “waste reduction.” I like this concept because it doesn’t involve expensive recycling efforts or costs. Another Deacon referred to this as “practical Christianity.
In researching this, I found an article by Amelia Franklin titled “The Biblical Reasons for Going ‘Low Waste’” (“Relevant,” August 2019). She wrote, “While it’s common and understandable for Christians to be skeptical of trendy cultural movements, the call to eliminate single-use products and excessive waste aligns with the Bible. Throughout the beginning of Genesis, we see the way the Lord carefully and purposefully created the Earth. We read that He called it ‘good.’ We see how Adam and Eve were given the garden, animals and plants to name and take care of, and the succeeding books demonstrate how God’s people continued to see and worship the Lord through His creation…. When we see images of overflowing landfills, floating islands of plastic waste, or people and animals affected by overuse and climate change, there is a dissonance [with God’s Plan].” These uncomfortable realities should inform our lifestyles and purchasing decisions.
Franklin concludes, “Low waste changes are small sacrifices when considering the weight of the call to take care of the Earth. Christians are not called to lives of accommodation and ease in any facet, but we allow it to creep in amidst the distractions of daily living. I see it as part of my calling to take care of what has been given to me….”
Here are some ways I reduce waste and move away from single-use products:
- Bring shopping bags (preferably washable) to all stores – not just grocery stores
- Use refillable water bottles
- Shop for second-time-around items: used clothing, furniture, household items, etc.
- Use washable rags instead of paper towels
- Wrap gifts in old newspapers; the funny papers are always nice
- Use washable microwave covers instead of paper towels and plastic wrap
- Use plastic newspaper bags for pet waste and other unsavory items
I am sure that you have other suggestions. Let’s think of a way to share. And as Margaret Meade reminds us: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens [Christians] can change the world.” – Mary Francis Bishop
Guest Preacher!
On Sunday, Feb. 7, Central will not only welcome new members, but also a guest preacher: Rabbi Sarah Mack, senior rabbi of Temple Beth-El since 2003.
Rabbi Mack was ordained at the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. The Seattle, Wash., native graduated from Brandeis University in 1996 with majors in English and Near Eastern and Judaic Studies. She also studied at Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies in Jerusalem.
Rabbi Mack sits on the executive committees of the Interfaith Coalition to Reduce Poverty and Center for Reconciliation. She is past president of the Board of Rabbis and has served on the boards of the Jewish Alliance, Chaplaincy Center, and Jewish Community Day School.
In 2019, American Jewish World Service named Rabbi Mack a Global Justice Fellow, a program that helps American rabbis become national advocates for human rights. She is also a founder of Rhode Island’s Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom and has worked with community partners to encourage interfaith dialogue among Jewish, Muslim, and Christian teens.
Mission Moment
This month’s meal for the Mother-Child Reunification Program at Amos House is scheduled for Jan. 26. The menu will be baked ziti, salad, bread and butter, fruit, and dessert. If you can provide one of these components or part of one, contact Lynne Seacord at 314-413-3741 or Mehl.seacord@gmail.com.
Please label food donations “Amos House,” and deliver to the church kitchen on Wednesday, Jan. 26, by 3:30 pm.
Thanks to our December volunteers: Wendy Abelson, Tracy Baran, Beth Cotter, and Caroline Patterson Inlow!
S A V E T H E D A T E
On Saturday, February 26, The Darrell West Lecture Series on Religion and Politics will feature Krista Tippett: journalist, author, “On Being” creator and host, Brown University graduate, and winner of the National Humanities Medal.
From Claudia
As we enter January I hope that we bring with us the joy of Christmas. Perhaps the lights and ornaments are stored for next year, but the memories linger. At our house, our many crèches and our tree stay up at least until Epiphany. Often we leave the lights on the arbor and porch through the month of January. There is something comforting and inspiring about light at this dark time of year.
At Epiphany we remember those wise sages of old who followed the new star in the sky seeking a new king in the world. With hope and faith in their quest, they found him in a stable in impoverished circumstances. Were they surprised at this? I think they might have been. I think that moment held a personal epiphany for them.
Along the way home they must have had many stories to tell about all they had experienced. Meeting Herod was probably one of them. Those wise ones who had journeyed so far ended up going home by another way rather than returning to Herod as he had asked. They were motivated on this quest by hope and faith, but Herod was motivated in his actions by fear and alarm. What a contrast!
What might have happened if Herod had sincerely joined the Magi in seeking Jesus? Certainly many Hebrew boys age two and younger would have lived. What if Herod had taken that other way? What if his heart had been softened and he had experienced his own epiphany?
The Magi saw the baby in the manger and trusted in what they had seen. Herod did not do so and was consumed by fear and mistrust. Matthew’s Gospel tells us that Herod was frightened. He was absorbed in the fear of losing control, of losing his power over people. The Magi went home marveling at what had happened, while Herod stayed put and plotted how to consolidate his power.
This story of Epiphany is a story of choices. Herod and the Magi had choices. We also have choices. Going home by another way is available to everyone. Following in hope and faith opens so many possibilities for us. Following the Christ Child is a path that is not always easy, but it leads to hope, peace, joy, and love for others and ourselves. Traveling that other road was life changing for the Magi. It is no less so for us today.
In hope and faith for 2022 – Claudia
Adult Sunday School
This month, we’ll 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. Sundays Jan. 2, 9, 16, and 23, 9 am, in the Fireplace Room
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, Jan. 3, 7 pm, via Zoom. Contact Claudia for an invitation.
Women Gather
Our new women’s fellowship group will start the New Year off with Central’s first ever Epiphany Tea – with little teacakes, of course! Contact Claudia for more details. Sunday, Jan. 9, 12 noon, in Chapel Hall.
Food For Thought Book Group
This month we will discuss “Anxious People” by Fredrick Backman, “a quirky, big-hearted novel” about a crime that never happened and eight strangers who discover the power of hope and forgiveness. Thursday, Jan. 13, 7 pm, via Zoom. Contact Claudia for an invitation.
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, Jan. 20, 7:30 am, in the Fireplace Room
Rebecca’s Book Group
Take part in a lively discussion about “Cloud Cuckoo Land,” by Pulitzer Prize winner Anthony Doerr. This wildly inventive novel tells of children on the cusp of adulthood – in fifteenth century Constantinople, in present-day Idaho, and on an interstellar ship decades in the future – who find resilience, hope … and a book. Thursday, Jan. 27, 12:30 pm, via Zoom. Contact Rebecca for an invitation.
Musical Notes
The sounds of Christmas once again filled the sanctuary at our candlelight Carol Service on December 19. The Central Congregational Church Choir sang anthems accompanied by harp, cello, and organ. It was a magical afternoon that made the Christmas spirit come alive once again. We thank organist/choirmaster Patrick Aiken for reimagining this service during such atypical times.
Church School News
Though Christmas is over, families now may be thinking of how to keep spiritual conversations and activities going.
For young children, it’s very important to understand that Baby Jesus in the manger and the man Jesus are the same person. Children don’t always connect that Baby Jesus grew up to be the man who called the fishermen, who told stories about God and God’s love, and who welcomed all those left out everywhere else. One child even told me that Baby Jesus and Jesus can’t be the same because Baby Jesus is a girl and Jesus is a boy.
One activity that may help clear up this confusion is to talk about Jesus growing up. Ask your children some “wondering questions” about Jesus as a child – such as “I wonder what games Jesus might have liked?” and “I wonder what foods were Jesus’ favorite?”
Wondering questions help children engage with Bible stories and experience God in personal and meaningful ways. These questions speak to our imaginations, so we connect with God more deeply than when we simply hear a Bible story. We open ourselves up to the Divine in the present, as well as strengthen our relationship with the Bible. The Bible becomes more than just a book. Instead, it becomes a story of people’s experiences with the Divine. We can openly engage with this story and know we are indeed part of it.
Wondering questions are not just for young children. They work well with all ages, including older children, teens, and young adults. Wondering questions can help us reflect faithfully on contemporary issues, as well as Bible stories.
Asking a few wondering questions now and then is a simple and fun way to interact with your children in a very spiritual and meaningful way. And they will help set the stage for faith that continues to grow and blossom throughout children’s lives.
Peace and blessings – Judy
Friday Film Fare
In “Paradise Road,” despair would seem to be the only reality for a group of women held prisoner by the Japanese in World War II amid brutality and starvation. Though from many backgrounds, they find a common language of hope – in music. Glenn Close, Frances McDormand, and Cate Blanchett star in this amazing, true story of remarkable women (some surviving members served as advisers on this film) who used their own voices as instruments in an orchestra of triumph. Dvorak in the jungle, you will discover, delivers a whole new poignancy to “Goin’ Home” – so far from any home. [112 minutes, color, rated R, 1997] Friday, Jan. 14, 7:30 pm, in the Fireplace Room
CCC Youth
A Time of Service: This February, CCC Youth will host an intergenerational Time of Service. We’ll meet up after worship to live God’s love and share it with the community at large. We’ll fill “care bags,” make and write cards for those in need of connection, and more. Mark your calendars, and join Central’s entire church community for this worthwhile event. Sunday, Feb. 13, 11:30 am, in Chapel Hall.
Summer Mission Trip: Thanks to everyone who supported CCC Youth’s wreath fundraiser. All proceeds will fund our mission trip to Appalachia, July 16 to 22. We encourage all Central teens to come – including those who will enter high school in the fall, as well as 2022 high school graduates. Mission trips are life-changing experiences, filled with work, fun, and fellowship. This one is not to be missed!
Claudia’s Anniversary
Central celebrated The Reverend Dr. Claudia Demick’s fifteenth anniversary on Nov. 28, during the worship service and coffee hour – with presentations and remembrances.
Confirmation Class
The confirmands will meet three times this month at 11:30 am. On Sunday, Jan. 2, the topic for the session is “evil.” Then on Sunday, Jan. 16, the topic will be “death and afterlife.” And finally, Sunday, Jan. 30, will be confirmands’ choice.
NEOS and WORD
NEOS will meet on Sunday, Jan. 9, at 12 noon. WORD will meet Jan. 9, at 1 pm and on Sunday, Jan. 23, at 12 noon.
Play Group
We’re forming a play group for toddlers, preschoolers, and pre-kindergarten-age children here at Central. We’ll play, do some art, have snacks, and sing songs together. This will also be a great opportunity for parents to get to know one another. If you would like more information, please speak with Judy. Our first play date is Tuesday, Jan. 18, 10 am, in the Church School Wing, second floor.
Stewardship Trivia Spectacular
Central’s annual trivia event, hosted by the Stewardship Committee, has been rescheduled. It’s fun for all ages and a great way to get to know each other. Plus, you’ll experience the fellowship and inner peace that come when we get together as a community of faith – something we’ve all missed since the onset of COVID. Pizza and beverages will be served! RSVP to Jeff Baran, co-chair of the Stewardship Committee, so we have enough food for everyone (jeff@wakefieldliquors.com). Sunday, Jan. 23, 11:45 am, in the Fireplace Room.
Mission Trip Volunteers
If you’re an adult who enjoys helping others, as well as spending time with teenagers, please consider joining our CCC Youth summer mission trip team. We’ll be in Appalachia from July 16 to 22 for what promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Questions? Contact Judy or Larry Kellam.
19-35 Fellowship
Central’s young adult ministry will get started again in the new year. It’s not just for Central members, it’s for anyone between the ages of 19 and 35: recent high school graduates, college students, singles, and couples. Tell your friends and the young adults in your life. And, stay tuned; details are coming!
In the Gallery
Don’t forget to check out Central’s new online Gallery, featuring Torin Richards Jewelry. Look under “This Week” on the Central website.
January Events
| 2 | Adult Sunday School | 9 am |
| Worship | 10:30 am | |
| Church School | 10:30 am | |
| Confirmation Class | 11:30 am | |
| 3 | Women’s Retreat Group | 7 pm |
| 5 | Gallery Committee | 9:30 am |
| Finance Committee | 7 pm | |
| 9 | Adult Sunday School | 9 am |
| Stewardship Committee | 9:15 am | |
| Worship | 10:30 am | |
| Church School | 10:30 am | |
| Leadership Development | 11:45 am | |
| NEOS | 12 noon | |
| Women Gather | 12 noon | |
| WORD | 1 pm | |
| 11 | Board of Deacons | 5:45 pm |
| 12 | Finance Committee | 7 pm |
| 13 | Nominating Committee | 5:30 pm |
| Food for Thought Book Group | 7 pm | |
| 14 | Friday Film Fare | 7:30 pm |
| 16 | Adult Sunday School | 9 am |
| Worship | 10:30 am | |
| Church School | 10:30 am | |
| Confirmation Class | 11:30 am | |
| 18 | Play Group | 10 am |
| Plant & Properties Committee | 5:45 pm | |
| Prudential Committee | 7 pm | |
| 19 | Mission & Action Committee | 6 pm |
| 20 | Central Men’s Group | 7:30 am |
| Central Newsletter Deadline | 3:30 pm | |
| Nominating Committee | 5:30 pm | |
| 23 | Adult Sunday School | 9 am |
| Worship | 10:30 am | |
| Church School | 10:30 am | |
| Trivia Spectacular | 11:45 am | |
| WORD | 12 noon | |
| 24 | Technology Committee | 7 pm |
| 26 | Amos House Dinner Delivery | 3:30 pm |
| Inquirers’ Meeting | 7 pm | |
| 27 | Rebecca’s Book Group | 12:30 pm |
| 30 | Worship | 10:30 am |
| Church School | 10:30 am | |
| Budget Approval Meeting | 11:30 am | |
| Confirmation Class | 11:30 am |