SERMON PREVIEW

Beloved Central Church,

On Sunday, we remember the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem and celebrate his arrival with palm branches and loud shouts of Hosanna, just like the crowds so many years ago. But we also prepare to enter Holy Week when we remember that Jesus was betrayed and stripped of all vestiges of power and authority.

The contrast raises powerful and important questions about the identity of Christ and our identity as Christ's disciples. Sunday's service includes a procession of Palms, led by our children and youth. In my sermon, I'll reflect on these themes and Paul's words in his letter to Philippians.

Also, we will introduce our new Christian Education staff person, Renee Spellman, who will serve as our Family Ministry Assistant. I hope you'll join us for Palm Sunday worship and to meet Renee. My sermon, inspired by Paul, is titled, "The Same Mind as Christ."

Our service includes a procession of palms led by our children and youth.

Grace and Peace,

Chris

View The Messenger for March 29, 2026

View Announcements for March 29, 2026

Welcome Renee Spellman

The Christian Education committee is excited to announce that Renee Spellman is joining our church staff as the new Family Ministry Assistant. We were blessed to receive many good applications and Renee's stood out. She has an impressive academic background, life experience, and a deep sense of personal faith. She also has wide-ranging teaching experience and care for children. She starts officially on April 1 but will be with us this Sunday. Later in April, there will be a meet and greet time during coffee hour. We hope you will join in welcoming Renee to Central Church.

Patti Innes, Lesley Kennedy, Pam Armstrong and Rev. Ney

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.