Dear Friends,



For many people, summer is a time for relaxing days at the beach, travel to the mountains, or trips to relax. We enjoy these sunny weeks to rest and renew ourselves. Jesus also needed time and place to rest amidst the demands of the world that were placed upon him. We’ll hear this story and I’ll share reflections on what it means for us and the presence of Christ in our world today. If you aren’t engaged in summer travels, I hope you’ll come to worship for a time of rest and renewal and a sermon that I’m calling, “A Deserted Place to Rest.” Join us on Sunday, July 21 at 9:30 a.m. for worship followed by cool refreshments provided by the Hospitality Team.

Grace and peace,

Chris

TIME CHANGE

WORSHIP STARTS at 9:30 A.M.

In-person and broadcast Worship begins at 9:30 AM for the summer. Services will continue to be broadcast on Facebook Live throughout the summer. Cool beverages and refreshments will be served in the Narthex following worship. We hope to see you bright and early!

Sunday Worship Scripture Readings

PSALM 23

EPHESIANS 2:11-22

THE GOSPEL OF MARK 6:30-34, 53-56

SUNDAY SCHOOL & YOUTH GROUP



Sunday School is on summer break. Classes will reconvene on September 8, with Godly Play for ages 4-12, and Grapple for middle school students. Watch for details for summer events and Youth Group activities.

If any youth are interested in earning community service hours this summer please reach out to Lauren – especially anyone who loves taking inventory and organizing as I have a few projects I am working on!

Blessings, Lauren

For more information or to register for programs, please contact Lauren lauren@centralnewburyport.org (978)572-1423

Central Happenings

Worldwide Play Music on the Porch Day

The Central Church Band has registered to join in the 2024 Worldwide Play Music on the Porch Day. We will be playing at the top of the steps in front of the church starting at 3:00 PM on August 31. We invite all musicians and singers in the church to join in, either as solo acts or to sing a few songs with the band.

The exact timeline of the day will be clearer when we know how many folks plan to join us for this event. Watch for updates and if you are interested in participating as a performer or as support staff for the event email Stuart Proctor at stuproctor@comcast.net

Community News and Events

AFGHAN WOMEN’S WORSHOP (AWW) @ NEWBURYPORT FARMERS MARKET

The Afghan Women’s Workshop (AWW) will have a booth at the Summer Newburyport Farmers Market 9-1, on Sundays: 7/28, 8/25,and 9/22. Our Afghan mom (Shagufa), as part of the AWW, will be selling her pillows, napkins and other hand crafts at the market, so check out their booth.

https://thenewburyportfarmersmarket.org/ 

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!

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 high risk. 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. Masks and hand sanitizers are available in the Sanctuary. We continue to monitor guidelines from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and local public safety/public health officials to ensure the continued health and safety of all Central Congregational Church members, visitor and guests.