Dear Congregation,
This Sunday we will try again to resume in-person worship together at 10:30 a.m. in our peaceful outdoor Garden Chapel after being rained out last week. I’m optimistic as the weather forecast looks promising so far! We will also continue to live-stream the service on Facebook, so you’ll be able to choose the setting in which you feel most comfortable. I’m grateful for the technology which makes this possible, and I look forward to being with you either way!
Following worship there will be a Zoom meeting of members of the congregation. Members should have received information regarding the purpose of this meeting in an email. Again, technology allows us to come together as a body to do the work of the church, even though we are physically separated.
Have you noticed that each Sunday in the worship bulletin under the heading “Preparation for Worship” is printed a quotation chosen for your reflection? That quote relates to the focus scripture that day and is meant to give the reader something to think about, perhaps in a new way, as she/he approaches worship. I choose these quotes carefully, and find the one for this Sunday particularly appropriate for your consideration, relevant to both the Gospel lesson, Matthew 25:14-30 “The Parable of the Talents”, and to the subject of our Congregational Meeting, which involves the future of the church.
It is, “A ship is safe in harbor, but that’s not what ships are for.” John A Shedd, 20th century. That quote could be adapted to say, “A church is safe taking no risks, but that’s not what a church is for.” I invite you to read the scripture, then to reflect and pray over it, considering the original quote, and the adaptation as they pertain to the future of Christ Congregational United Church of Christ. Ask yourself the question, “What is the purpose of the church?”
I continue to think of you and pray for you.
May God Bless You and keep you safe.
In Christ’s love,
Pastor Candy
click here to download this week's bulletin!