Friday, April 17, 7:30 pm

In Stand by Me (1986), the year is 1959. Four 12-year-old boys – sensitive Gordie, tough guy Chris, flamboyant Teddy, and scaredy-cat Vern – are looking for adventure. And they find it in an unforgettable two-day trek to find another boy who’s gone missing, a journey that becomes an odyssey of self-discovery, friendship, and growing up. [89 minutes; color; Rated R] Join host Jim Silverthorn in the Fireplace Room.

Central thrives when we share our diverse gifts, perspectives, and passions. Whether you have a knack for organization and administration, a heart for outreach, a love of mission work, or a vision for our educational programs, there is a place for your talents here. To learn where you might fit in, reach out to Tracy Baran, Nominating Committee chair (tmoorf@gmail.com) for a no-pressure conversation.

Saturday, Apr. 11, 9 am

Come one, come all – young and not-so-young. It’s time to spruce up Central’s building and grounds for spring! Projects range from polishing and dusting to raking leaves and moving furniture. Choose the task you want to tackle. Remember, many hands make light work. Plus, we’ll have coffee, doughnuts, and lots of good cheer! Please join us from 9 am to 12 noon – or whenever you can stop by.

Thursday, April 2, 7 pm

We’ll remember Jesus’ Last Supper with his disciples by coming together as a community of faith for dinner and a celebration of Communion in Chapel Hall. We’ll reflect on the true meaning of sacrifice and love, as shown by Jesus during the Last Supper – as we let the spirit of Maundy Thursday remind us to cherish our loved ones and strengthen the bonds of friendship. Nursery care provided.

Friday, April 3, 7 pm

Central’s contemplative Service of Tenebrae (Latin for “darkness”) recalls the Crucifixion through scripture and music. The readings take us from the betrayal of Christ through His death on the cross. This profound service ends in quiet and total darkness. Children third grade and up are welcome to attend. Nursery care provided.

Friday, April 3, 12 noon

At this year’s Good Friday Service of Music, the Central Congregational Church Choir – conducted by Patrick Aiken, organist/choirmaster – presents “Requiem” by Maurice Duruflé (1947). Structured in nine movements and featuring mezzo-soprano and baritone solos –  its thematic material comes primarily from the Mass for the Dead in Gregorian chant. Noted for its calmness and meditative character, Duruflé’s Requiem focuses on consolation and the hope of eternal life rather than sadness.