SERMON PREVIEW

Beloved Central Church,

I will be away this weekend to attend the memorial service for my friend, colleague, and mentor, the Rev. Graylan Hagler at Plymouth Congregational Church in Washington DC. Graylan was my supervisor when I served as a student pastor at Church of the United Community in Roxbury MA. He preached at my ordination service a few years later. He passed away on Tuesday, February 17 and I am grateful to the Deacons for permission to attend his service and I'm grateful to the Rev. Elizabeth Horne for leading worship and preaching in my absence.

Grace and Peace,

Chris

Beth is well-known to this congregation as a former member, seminarian, and long-time friend. Here is her preview for Sunday's service.

In Sunday's reading from John's Gospel, Jesus' teachings and actions are challenging the status quo of those in power. We hear how Nicodemis, a learned powerful Pharisee, comes to Jesua at night with questions. Our world today seems at times to be spiraling out of control with many challenges to our status quo. Where do we bring out questions and whom do we trust?

Beth

Links Below for the Messenger and Announcements

Messenger for March 1 2026

Announcements for March 1 2026

Central Happenings



SATURDAY MORNING COMMUNITY BREAKFAST is served from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Central Congregational Church, 14 Titcomb St, Newburyport MA. Join us at the table in the Sanctuary this week or request your meal to-go. Breakfast is always free, and your good-will donations are happily accepted to keep the program operating and providing weekend meals to those in need. All are welcome.

If you are interested in helping out or volunteering to cook or serve, please contact info@centralnewburyport.org or call 978-465-0533.

DONATE WITH VENMO

Central Church can receive donations through Venmo! Many people no longer carry much cash or use paper checks, as payment apps have become commonplace. Venmo is one of the most popular and is now available for contributions to support the ministry of Central Church. You can use the QR code to access Central’s account @on Venmo. Please indicate how you would like to direct your donation with comments like “General” or “Outreach.” Special thanks to Jeff Gray for setting up this account.

Special Donations - Afghan Family Support

If you are interested in making a special donation to support the Afghan family that Central Church is assisting, we have set-up a specific fund that you can donate to using our on-line giving system. Follow these easy steps through the Central Church website:

1)   Go to: https://www.centralnewburyport.org

2)   Click the Donate to Central button at the bottom of the home page

3)   Complete the Online Donation form that appears

Your Support is important.

We continue to rely upon and appreciate your financial support!

Prayer Concerns

If you have a prayer concern this week, please send an email to Chris at chris@centralnewburyport.org by the end of the day Saturday or complete a prayer request card available in the Sanctuary and give it to a Deacon before worship service begins. Your prayer concern will be mentioned in the Sunday Worship by first name only, for privacy concerns. Thank You!

Health & Safety Information

Masks are optional during worship and other activities, but are recommended for those who are at high risk. Masks and hand sanitizers are available in the Sanctuary. We encourage anyone who chooses to wear a mask to do so at any time. We ask that anyone who has symptoms of cold or flu stay home and participate in worship remotely. We continue to monitor guidelines from the CDC, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and local public safety/public health officials to ensure the continued health and safety of all Central Congregational Church members, visitors and guests.