SERMON PREVIEW

Beloved Central Church,

As the season of Lent progresses, we get closer to the cross of Jesus —the symbol of violence that will be transformed on Easter into a symbol of God’s transforming love. But we live still with an awareness of the pain and suffering in our lives and in our world.

Our gospel lesson brings this tension into clear focus and offers us a glimpse of Easter’s joy. We hear the story of Lazarus, a beloved friend of Jesus, who suffered death but was restored to life. In this story, we hear how deeply Jesus is affected by the grief of his friends.

I hope you’ll join us for worship and a sermon that I’m calling, “Jesus Was Greatly Disturbed.”

Grace and Peace,

Chris

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History Talk During Worship

This Sunday your church historians will be sharing a story about an event in Central’s history.

165 years ago in March 1861, North Church, right here on the corner of Titcomb and Pleasant Streets, experienced a devastating disaster. Come hear the tale of this catastrophic event and get a hint of what happened afterward.

A display relating the story will be in the sanctuary on Sunday.

Jill St.Onge and Amantha Moore

Central Happenings



FREE SATURDAY MORNING COMMUNITY BREAKFAST is served from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Central Congregational Church, 14 Titcomb St, Newburyport. Good-will donations are accepted to keep the program operating providing weekend meals to those in need. All are welcome.

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

Donate With VENMO

To support the ministry of Central Church you may make donations through Venmo. Use the QR code to access Central’s account @on Venmo. Indicate how you wish to direct your donation with comments such as “General” or “Outreach.”

Special Donations to Support Afghan Families

If you would like to 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 send an email to Chris at chris@centralnewburyport.org by the end of the day Saturday.

On Sunday fill out a blue prayer request card (available in the sanctuary) and give to a Deacon before the service begins. Your prayer concern will be mentioned during worship by first name only, for privacy concerns.

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.