Central Church profile

The Central Connection

Central Congregational Church,

United Church of Christ

Newburyport, MA


The Rev. Dr. Christopher Ney, pastor

SERMON PREVIEW


Beloved Central Church,


On Sunday, we hear two stories about thirst. The Israelites wandering in the desert complain to God about the lack of water and Jesus approaches a Samaritan woman at the well and asks for a drink. These events reveal important things about God’s grace and care. They also remind us that we often thirst or yearn for things in our lives—acceptance, hope, peace, justice. My sermon is titled “Never Thirst Again,” and I’ll share what Jesus’ words of promise mean for us today. I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.


Grace and Peace,


Chris



Links Below for the Messenger and Announcements


View The Messenger for March 8, 2026


View Announcements for March 8, 2026

Thursday Lenten Bible Study & Supper

March 12 & 19 at 6:00pm


During the sacred season of Lent, we take time to deepen our faith by nurturing our relationship with God, our neighbors, and ourselves. Our soup and bread suppers for Lent are one of the ways that we do that.

This year, the focus of our program is Jesus' teaching in Matthew, the Sermon on the Mount, and the theme of peace. Please join us in the Social Hall, Thursday nights at 6:00 on March 12, and 19.

Saturday Night Meal - March 14

This month we are looking for 75-80 chicken & rice casseroles and 95-100 jugs of milk. Prep work and deliveries are made from East Parish Church in Salisbury.

If you would like to help contact Diane Hawkins-Clark.

CHRISTIAN EDUCATION JOB SEARCH

The Christian Education Committee is advertising a position for Family Ministry Coordinator. If you would like more information about this opportunity or would like to share this opportunity with a friend, please contact a member of the CE Committee.

WORSHIP BROADCAST

In-person worship service in the sanctuary and live-stream broadcast begins at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday morning. We share communion on the first Sunday of each month.


We are working to resolve technical problems with our broadcast equipment and appreciate your patience as we seek to restore full broadcast capabilities.



Central Happenings



Central Church profile
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SATURDAY MORNING COMMUNITY BREAKFAST is served from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Central Congregational Church, 14 Titcomb St, Newburyport. 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.

Giving

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

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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.

Central Congregational Church
An Open and Affirming Congregation of the United Church of Christ
14 Titcomb Street, PO Box 372, Newburyport, MA 01950
978-465-0533