Board of Deacons

The Board of Deacons oversees the spiritual welfare and direction of the church and assists our ministers.  Meets the Second Tuesday of the month, 5:30 p.m. 

Senior Deacons: Bill Connors, Beth Cotter, and Lucy Hanna

Prudential

The Prudential Committee determines financial policies and oversees management of the church’s physical properties. Meets the Third Tuesday of the month, 7 p.m.

Chair: Mike Hopkins

Finance

The Finance Subcommittee supports the Prudential Committee, evaluating church finances and developing the annual budget.  Meets as needed.

Chair: Donna Chace-Larson

Plant, Properties & Design

The Plant and Properties Subcommittee supports the Prudential Committee, managing care and maintenance of the church building, grounds, and other Central-owned properties. Meets the Third Thursday of the month, 5:45 p.m.

Chair: Warren Jagger

Stewardship

The Stewardship Subcommittee supports the Prudential Committee, planning and executing Central’s annual stewardship drive.  Meets as needed.

Calling

The Calling Committee visits and builds relationships with Central members and friends who are homebound due to illness, disability, or life circumstances. Meets Sunday mornings, 9:30 a.m., as needed.

Chair: Stacy Fischer

Flower

The Flower Committee coordinates the church’s floral decorations – and after Sunday worship, delivers them to Central members and friends who are homebound, ill, or simply in need of a personal visit and remembrance.  Meets three to four times a year as needed.

Chairs: Marilyn Edwards and Margaret Gardner

Gallery

The Gallery Committee organizes monthly art exhibits – open to the community – that feature the works of local artists, as well as a juried exhibit/competition for local high school art students. Meets the First Wednesday of the month, 9 a.m.

Chair: Donna Templeton

Leadership Development

The Leadership Development Committee provides leadership skills, guidance, resources, and insights to committee chairs. Meets three times a year following Sunday Worship.

Chair: Sandi Connors

Membership

The Membership Committee supports the growth and development of the congregation, from welcoming visitors to shepherding those who choose to join.  Meets the Second Wednesday of the month, 6:15 p.m.

Chair: Nancy Gage & Joyce Wolfe

Memorial Courtyard

This committee cares for Central’s Memorial Courtyard, a sacred space for the interment of ashes and quiet reflection. Meets as needed.

Chair: Wendy Abelson

Mission & Action

The Mission & Action Committee coordinates and volunteers hundreds of hours to local, national, and international mission projects – providing human services, child welfare, health care, educational, and spiritual support. Meets the Third Wednesday of every month, 7 p.m.

Chair: Beth Cotter & Tracy Baran

Music

The Music Committee supports Central’s vibrant music program – Sunday worship and musical events throughout the year – and promotes them throughout Rhode Island. Meets the First Thursday of the month, 6:30 p.m.

Chair: Liz Viall

Nominating

The Nominating Committee works with Central’s clergy to match church members’ talents with committee vacancies, and sponsors the annual Committee Fair. Meets February through May as needed.

Chair: Peter Woodberry

Religious Education

The Religious Education Committee guides educational programs for Central’s Church School, youth groups, and adults – and organizes a variety of community-building events throughout the year.  Meets as needed.

Chair: Susannah Hopkins & Caroline Hunter

Social Committee

The Social Committee organizes and executes Central social events, including the annual Christmas Silver Tea.  It also manages the kitchen and cares for service items. Meets as needed.

Chairs: Nancy Callison & Carolyn Kolesar

Technology

The Technology Committee explores ways technology can support Central’s missions and increase operational efficiencies.  It maintains the church’s website and social media outreach.  Meets the First Monday of the month, 7 p.m. 

Chair: Don Wolfe