Central News
May 2024 | Vol. 32, No. 10
Download the PDF version of the May Newsletter
A Good Word From Patrick
Hey folks, I missed my first worship service at Central on April 21 so I could participate in an endurance race set in the beautiful Masennutten range of mountains on the north end of the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia. In 22.5 hours, some friends and I traveled 60 miles, navigating between 30 checkpoints hidden deep in the woods – atop stunning ridge lines and along the river’s edge. In order to navigate between checkpoints, we waded through mountain laurel and rhododendron, pushed bikes up steep and rocky trails, and canoed through sections of rapids on the Shenandoah River.
I love this race. It is a mentally and physically challenging way for me to spend time in the woods, away from technology, with friends I made in middle school. There is something about stepping off of a well-worn path in the middle of the night to find small flags, hidden in parts of the forest few people have seen, that is both terrifying and exhilarating. It simplifies the problems of the world. I can’t ruminate on inflation, election cycles, global military movements, or how to optimize productivity when I am focused on whether my next step will fall into a crevice or onto a rattlesnake. It is hard to wonder about the nature of church decline when I am pushing a bike up a ridge or sinking underwater in a canoe.
This race is a sort of annual reminder to me to focus on the things I can control directly in front of me. If I pay attention, I can find myself on the map, orient myself to the geography around me, and take a faithful step toward my next goal. The race is simple in this way. When you start to lose focus, you may lose yourself. If you lose yourself, you have to take time with the map and compass to find yourself before you can start to walk forward again. The longer you go without checking in, the harder it is to find your bearing. The longer you think about someone else’s race, the worse you do on your own. The longer you think about the race director’s strategy, the further off course you may find yourself. This race, with no set course and a thousand decisions to make in order to complete it, forces you to be fully present.
Stepping back into my normal life, I see so many parallels. It is so easy to ruminate over all the things we don’t have control over. It is so easy to distract ourselves with the endless news cycle that highlights the worst aspects of society. It almost feels productive – like we’re staying informed. But I’m not sure it always helps us take the right step towards healing.
So, I am trying to live in this moment, in this place right now. What is the right next thing to do in order to meet a goal faithful to my calling? How might I keep “the main thing” the main thing without getting pulled towards someone else’s main thing? Are you oriented to your map? Are you on the right bearing? What is your right next step?
I look forward to seeing you in Worship! – Patrick
The Deacon’s Bench
As we roll through spring, we find ourselves in the month of May. This year will test the theory of “April showers bring May flowers” as we seem to be dodging raindrops daily. We also have the opportunity to celebrate a special someone on the second Sunday of May. Known by many names from friends and relatives, we know her as Mom.
The opportunity to be a Mom (both figuratively and literally) is a blessing, as one of my favorite moms has told me. She does so much and gets very little in return. Mom is the first to show up and the last to leave. She is the one you want to talk to when you are hurt or not feeling well and the last one you want to disappoint. She celebrates your victories the loudest, and she is cut the deepest during your defeats. She is the one that would stand in harm’s way to protect you from any danger without a second thought.
Mom is your taxi when you need a ride, your cook every time she sees you, and your doctor to bandage you up when you fall. She knows you better than you know yourself – and even knows if something is wrong as soon as you say hello. She puts you first and keeps you there. She gave you strength when you were knocked down. She gave you courage when you were scared. She gave you advice when you didn’t know what to do. She taught you to be humble, caring, loving, generous, and brave. She taught you that everyone is considered family until proven otherwise. She gives you a hug when you don’t need one, advice when you don’t ask, and loves you unconditionally.
She does all this without any recognition or award. She does this just because she wants to or has to. It is because it feeds Mom’s soul and gives her life. She knows no other way.
A great and wise woman once said to me, “Being a mom is not easy, but it is the toughest job you will ever love.” As I have gotten older, I really understand that moms are God’s gifts to the world. If you are fortunate enough to have someone in your life that you call Mom or someone who has been there as a mother for you – your biological mother or the person who has supported, challenged, and inspired you through the years … maybe a teacher, aunt, grandmother, dear friend, or neighbor – don’t wait. Call, text, write, send a smoke signal for that person who has been there for you and tell her how much she has meant to you and how much you appreciate all she has done. Love her unconditionally because that is what she is doing for you, and you are truly blessed. And, maybe take a minute to ponder how you can be that person for someone else. – Bill Iuliano
Ascension Day
When he had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them. While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven. Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. And they stayed continually at the temple, praising God. – Luke 24:50-53
This year, on Thursday, May 9, take a few moments to contemplate Ascension Day, which is traditionally observed 40 days after Easter Sunday. Scripture tells us that Jesus spent these 40 days post-resurrection with his apostles, preparing them for his departure. On this fortieth day after Easter, Jesus blessed his disciples for the work ahead and ascended into heaven. We carry the legacy of that blessing today. How might you bear Christ in the world today?
Annual Church Meeting
The 172nd Annual Church Meeting of Central Congregational Church will be held Sunday, June 2, immediately following Worship. Simply remain in the Sanctuary.
Central’s Annual Luncheon will follow at approximately 12:15 pm in Chapel Hall. The Social Committee will be serving your choice of rotisserie chicken salad, tuna salad, or egg salad; fresh greens, pasta salad, rolls, and assorted beverages – with our famous strawberry shortcake for dessert. Luncheon tickets are $15 per person. Please RSVP to the Church Office by Tuesday, May 28.
Hiring: Director of Religious Education
Central is actively seeking a new Director of Religious Education. This individual will create and direct our children’s ministries, while fostering healthy child-development habits and ensuring age-appropriate, fully inclusive faith development for all families in the Central community. Programs include nursery, church school, CCC Youth activities, confirmation, and summer mission trip. If you would like more information or know someone who might be interested in the position, please contact the Church Office.
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
Tuesday, April 23, 7 pm
Faith Exploration
Wednesday, May 1, 7 pm
New Member Sunday
Sunday, May 5, 10:30 am
New Member Reception
Join us in welcoming new members to the Central family during Worship and then stay after for a New Member Reception and potluck luncheon in Chapel Hall. See if you can meet all of our new members! The Membership Committee will provide main dishes, but you can enliven the fare by sharing a favorite side dish, casserole, salad, or dessert. Sunday, May 5, 11:30 am, in Chapel Hall
Pentecost
On Pentecost Sunday, we celebrate the wonder and mystery of God, the teachings of Jesus Christ, and the powerful gifts and movements of the Holy Spirit. Please wear red in celebration of the tongues of fire – and to remind us of God’s never-failing love for us and the love we are called to show to all people. After Worship, join us on the West Lawn for the releasing of the doves! Sunday, May 19, 10:30 am, in the Sanctuary / West Lawn
Amos House Breakfast Volunteers
Please consider becoming an Amos House Breakfast Volunteer! Amos House provides 400 meals every morning. Central members meet in the Amos House kitchen to help assemble pre-packaged breakfasts. If you can volunteer every week, that’s great. But if you can only come occasionally, we welcome – and need – every extra set of hands. Questions? Contact Tracy Baran (tmoorf@gmail.com). Every Wednesday, 6:30 to 8 am, in the Amos House Kitchen (460 Pine Street, Providence)
In Memoriam
Our prayers and sympathy are with the family and friends of Dorothy Lohman. Requiescat in pace
From Claudia
As I write this, Micah, our entirely indoor cat, is behind me on the cabinet in front of the window, one of his favorite spots. His tail is twitching as he looks out. I just got up to see what he was seeing. It turns out that it’s one of our baby bunnies, a New England Cottontail. Its black forehead spot is clearly visible.
That got me thinking about rabbits. Hares are forbidden food in the Book of Leviticus. I’m sure that makes our bunnies very happy. Rabbits, especially white ones, represent so many things in literature and art. Personally, I like that they often symbolize hope and new life. There are those who point to the rapidity of their regenerative powers, citing them as symbols of rebirth and starting anew. Some people connect them with symbolizing the hope and renewal that is offered through the risen Christ.
I’m wondering as I look at our little visitor, now happily munching on a patch of clover my husband has encouraged at the edge of our yard for the rabbits to enjoy, how such a tiny and defenseless creature will survive in this difficult world.
Actually, I’m wondering how any of us survive in this world. For our ancestors, the world was not always a safe and secure place. That hasn’t changed. As we hear of conflict in so many places, may we realize there are also glimmers of hope and renewal. The possibility of new beginnings is always present. As Easter people, we know that all too well.
My prayer is that we remember that all that is around us on the earth and in the heavens belongs to God. Let us pause this Eastertide and soak in the renewal found in spring, giving thanks to God for the new life that surrounds us. And, may our spirits be renewed and transformed with new life in places where we least expect it. May this be so for us and for all creation.
In hope and in faith – Claudia
Accolades
Central member Elizabeth Howlett has been named State President of AARP Rhode Island! Her responsibilities will include improving housing options, building economic security, and strengthening livable communities.
Elizabeth has had a lengthy career in policy and program development. After working in health care financing and consulting early in her career, she entered public service, serving ten years as State Senator and two terms as Lieutenant Governor of Rhode Island. She then served as Secretary of Health and Human Services under Governor Gina Raimondo.
Subsequently, Elizabeth developed health policy at Milbank Memorial Fund and consulted with organizations to develop strategic plans and strengthen administration and programming. She then joined University of Rhode Island as Director of the Academic Health Collaborative, expanding collaboration across the Colleges of Nursing, Health Sciences, and Pharmacy. Then, she was Director of Special Projects for the Provost.
Elizabeth graduated from Brown University and earned an M.B.A. in Health Care Management from Boston University. She currently serves on the boards of directors of One Neighborhood Builders and Aldersbridge Communities.
Adult Sunday School
This month the Adult Sunday School will explore the history of God – not only from a Christian perspective, but also as seen through the lenses of Judaism and Islam. Contact Claudia with questions. Sundays, May 5, 12, and 19, at 9 am, in the Fireplace Room. No class May 26.
Women Gather
Central’s women’s fellowship group will meet on Mother’s Day to remember our mothers! Bring a photograph and / or a story to share. Sunday, May 12, 12 noon, in the Fireplace Room
Food for Thought Book Group
This month, Claudia’s book group will discuss “Faith Bass Darling’s Last Garage Sale,” by Lynda Rutledge. When a wealthy woman decides to sell all of her worldly goods – “because God told her to” – she not only unearths the secrets of her family’s past but also raises some of life’s most imponderable questions: Do our possessions possess us? What are we without our memories? Is there life after death or second chances here on earth? Questions? Ask Claudia. Thursday, May 9, 7 pm, in the 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 John Trevor. Thursday, May 16, 7:30 am, in the Fireplace Room
Lunch At Gregg’s Restaurant
Join Central friends old and new after Worship for good conversation and delicious food at Gregg’s, a Rhode Island tradition for 50 years. Check out the extensive, family-friendly menu (www.greggs-usa.com/Menu/Daily-Specials) and RSVP to Claudia. Sunday, May 19, 12 noon, at Gregg’s (1303 North Main St., Providence)
Toward Better Christian Politics
Central’s discussion group on the Christian response to political polarization in America uses a study / discussion guide entitled “The After Party: Toward Better Christian Politics” – developed by New York Times columnist David French. A light lunch will be served. Contact Kristin DeKuiper with any questions. Sunday, May 19, 12:30 pm in the Fireplace Room
Save the Date
Join us as we celebrate summer as a community of faith. Bring picnic sides or sweets. We’ll provide hotdogs and hamburgers! Sunday, June 9, 11:30 am, on the West Lawn
Poetry Corner: Snack Shop
She’s outlined against a plate glass window,
fronts the summer snack shop.
Long brown legs; slim, promising body,
a swish of dark hair and limpid smiling eyes.
They move a silent dance beside the order list.
He’s gazing down at her, as they consider options.
Flavor? Lemonade or watermelon.
Future? Only this sunny day, this sparkling moment.
Red haired; russet stubble tracing
his still-straight jawline.
A shining, dazzled eye turns downward
like the angel Gabriel,
Focused on this flower just
edging into womanhood.
Languid rhythms create this day afresh.
Legs sway like shoreline reeds.
Their necks turn, consider pricing and pairs.
– May Cornelia Grant (2021)
Egg-a-Day Childhood Nutrition Program
Be a “good egg” and join Central’s church school children in a special collection for the Egg-a-Day Childhood Nutrition Program in Haiti. This program – started in 2013 by the Haiti Task Force of the Southern New England Conference UCC – not only has provided high-quality protein (hard-boiled eggs) to more than 2,500 Haitian children, but also works to make the program sustainable by teaching school children and others how to raise their own chickens and other food sources.
By taking part in this mission, church school children come to understand the needs of those less fortunate and learn how to turn that into action. Please help them ease hunger and provide hope. Just pick up a plastic egg in the coatroom vestibule and return it by May 19 with your donation inside. Last year, a donation of $60 provided one child with one egg every day for the entire year!
In the Gallery
This May, the Gallery will showcase the work of Kelly McCullough, whose primary focus is classical portraiture and still life.
Kelly uses a painting technique called “site-size,” a means of accurately representing nature while maintaining a loose and naturalistic quality – a tradition that dates back to the theory and practice of Leonardo da Vinci. However, Kelly also continually experiments with new techniques and subject matter. She enjoys drawing fantastical forests in multimedia, and her newest direction is painting celestial sky- and landscapes in oil.
Kelly received her bachelor’s degree from Temple University’s Tyler School of Art and Architecture in Philadelphia. She also trained in Florence, Italy. Kelly maintains a studio in Rhode Island, and has taught art lessons and workshops throughout the area. Her work hangs in numerous collections in Rhode Island and beyond.
Come, meet the artist at the Gallery Reception on Thursday, May 23, 5 to 7 pm, in the Gallery.
Celebrating Central Graduates
If you are graduating this spring or have a family member who is graduating, please send the name and school to info@centralchurch.us. We will honor all Central graduates and their achievements during Worship on Sunday, June 2.
Scott MacKay: A Reporter Remembers
Central member Scott MacKay – a political reporter for the Providence Journal for more than 25 years before becoming a commentator for The Public’s Radio – will reflect on “Journalism and Politics in Rhode Island – When Newspapers Mattered.” The lecture is free and open to the public. Wednesday, May 8, 7 pm, at Barrington Public Library (281 County Road, Barrington)
World’s Greatest Pancake Breakfast
It’s time again for Scouts BSA Troop 28’s one and only annual fundraiser. It’s the popular and delectable “World’s Greatest Pancake Breakfast.” So bring your appetite! Saturday, May 18, 8 to 11 am, in Chapel Hall.
Fourth Thursday Book Group
This month, the Fourth Thursday Book Group will discuss “The Women,” by Kristen Hannah. This story of one woman serving in Vietnam shines a light on all women who put themselves in harm’s way and whose sacrifice and commitment to their country has too often been forgotten. Email Ann Scott at eannscott56@gmail.com for a Zoom invitation. Thursday, May 23, 12:30 pm, via Zoom.
Every Day is Mother’s Day Concert
Activists / folk music icons – Sally Rogers, Claudia Schmidt, Holly Near, and Emma’s Revolution – have joined forces for the second “Every Day is Mother’s Day Tour.” The music celebrates women’s voices to “lift up mothers, foremothers, and trailblazers of all kinds.” Tickets are $35 in advance / $40 at the door (emmasrevolution.com/every-day-is-mothers-day). Friday, May 3, 7 pm, at First Unitarian Church of Providence (1 Benevolent Street, Providence)
Seeking PrideFest Volunteers
Central is a longtime supporter of Rhode Island PrideFest, which will take place on Saturday, June 15. We are looking for volunteers to staff our booth! There are three shifts: 10 am to 12 noon (set up), 12 noon to 2 pm, and 2 to 4 pm (clean up). We also need volunteers to march in the parade, which kicks off at 8 pm. For more information or to volunteer, please contact the Church Office.
Celebration of Life: Peg Fletcher
On Sunday, April 14, the family and friends of Peg Fletcher, Central’s longtime office coordinator, gathered to celebrate her life. Peg’s artwork and years of family photographs graced the entire Gallery as people shared treasured remembrances. Download the PDF version of the Newsletter for photos.
May Events
| 1 | Amos House Volunteers | 6:30 am |
| Gallery Committee | 9:30 am | |
| Endowment Committee | 4 pm | |
| Faith Exploration | 7 pm | |
| 2 | Board of Deacons | 5:45 pm |
| Choir Rehearsal | 7:30 pm | |
| 5 | Adult Sunday School | 9 am |
| Stewardship Committee | 9:15 am | |
| New Member Sunday | 10:30 am | |
| Church School | 10:30 am | |
| New Member Potluck | 11:45 am | |
| 6 | Children’s Choir Rehearsal | 5 pm |
| 8 | Amos House Volunteers | 6:30 am |
| 9 | Ascension Day | |
| Food for Thought Book Group | 7 pm | |
| Choir Rehearsal | 7:30 pm | |
| 12 | Adult Sunday School | 9 am |
| Worship / Mother’s Day | 10:30 am | |
| Church School | 10:30 am | |
| Women Gather | 12 noon | |
| 13 | Children’s Choir Rehearsal | 5 pm |
| Compassionate Friends | 7 pm | |
| 15 | Amos House Volunteers | 6:30 am |
| 16 | Central Men’s Group | 7:30 am |
| Nominating Committee | 9:30 am | |
| Choir Rehearsal | 7:30 pm | |
| 18 | Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser | 8 am |
| 19 | Adult Sunday School | 9 am |
| Pentecost Sunday / Worship | 10:30 am | |
| Church School | 10:30 am | |
| Lunch at Gregg’s | 12 noon | |
| Better Christian Politics | 12:30 pm | |
| 20 | Newsletter Deadline | 3:30 pm |
| Children’s Choir Rehearsal | 5 pm | |
| Technology Committee | 7 pm | |
| 21 | Plant & Properties Committee | 5:45 pm |
| Prudential Committee | 7 pm | |
| 22 | Amos House Volunteers | 6:30 am |
| 23 | Fourth Thursday Book Group | 12:30 pm |
| Gallery Reception | 5 pm | |
| Choir Rehearsal | 7:30 pm | |
| 26 | Trinity Sunday / Worship | 10:30 am |
| Church School | 10:30 am | |
| Membership Committee | 11:30 am | |
| 29 | Amos House Volunteers | 6:30 am |
| 30 | Choir Rehearsal | 7:30 pm |
The Church Office will be closed Monday, May 27, for Memorial Day.