On Palm Sunday, Central starting collecting this year’s special mission offering for One Great Hour of Sharing. For more than 70 years, OGHS has provided a way to share God’s love with neighbors in need around the world. To date, we have received $2,238 from 53 donors – approximately 80 percent of what we raised last year. We will continue to accept contributions through the end of June. Please consider even a small donation, so we can exceed last year’s offering.

Sunday, May 8

On the second Sunday in May, we’re asking all CCC Youth – and adults, for that matter – not simply to do something nice for a loved one, but also to show love and care to a person who would benefit from a random act of kindness. Send a nice note to an old friend. Drop off flowers at an elderly neighbor’s home. Bring baked goods to a person who is alone. Call a relative you seldom see. Do a household chore without being told or reminded. Use your imagination.… [Read More]

Central’s spring fundraiser is Saturday, May 21. Proceeds will benefit Afghanistan, Haiti and Ukraine relief organizations. We need volunteers to collect donations, price/organize items, set up, provide security, and work the day of the sale. We also need dry storage spaces near the church to house sale items. We’ll accept donations – in good/working condition – after Easter: Artwork/Posters, Baby Equipment, Books, Records, CDs, DVDs, Electronics, Furniture, Housewares, Tableware, Jewelry, Knickknacks, Linens, Luggage, Sports Equipment, Toys, and Games. To donate or volunteer, call the Church Office.

Thursday, Apr. 7, 7 pm

Judy will host a Zoom meeting for CCC youth, parents, and other adults interested in this summer’s youth mission trip. We’ll discuss logistics, financing, travel, safety precautions, and overall expectations. And, we’ll address any questions you may have. 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 or Larry Kellam for a Zoom invitation.

Saturday, Apr. 9, 10 am

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 Reverend Rebecca Spencer. We will be offering Baptisms on Sunday, Apr. 24. There will be a gathering for those wishing to be baptized on Saturday, Apr. 9, 10 am, Fireplace Room.

by Terry Schraeder

When the Reverend Rebecca Spencer kindly asked me to talk about my faith journey during Lent, I was honored, humbled, and nervous. What I did not know initially was how much this exercise would strengthen my faith through rigorous and honest self-reflection.

How and when did I find my faith?  How has my faith changed especially during the last two years?  And as I get older and “wiser,” how has my relationship to God changed?

After two years of the pandemic and now the war in Ukraine, we know that these are difficult times.… [Read More]