Dear Friends,

The teachings of Jesus are filled with metaphors drawn from the world of nature. On Sunday, we hear Jesus compare the Kingdom of God to someone scattering seed. The seed germinates and grows, but the sower does not know how. What does this image teach us about Christian faith and discipleship? This is the question that I’ll explore in a sermon that I’m calling, “Scattering Seed.” I hope you’ll join us for worship as we celebrate Father’s Day and our graduates.

Grace and peace,

Chris

TIME CHANGE

WORSHIP STARTS at 9:30 A.M.

In-person and broadcast Worship begins at 9:30 AM.

Beginning Sunday, June 16, 2024, Sunday worship will start at 9:30 AM. 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

EZEKIEL 17:22-24

2 CORINTHIANS 5:6-10 

THE GOSPEL OF MARK 4:26-34

SUNDAY SCHOOL & YOUTH GROUP



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

Thank you to all who have helped support our Christian Education program this year! We recognize and appreciate the efforts of our Sunday School teachers Ellen & John, Christian Education committee members, our faithful Nursery Attendant Lila Coffey and others who have helped in keeping our programs fun and interesting.

Blessings, Lauren

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

Recognition of our Graduates

On June 16, 2024 we will recognize and honor our high school and college graduates during worship. If your graduate is unable to attend in person worship on June 16 to celebrate with us, please plan to have a family member represent them. Contact the office (978) 465-0533 or Lauren Olson-Sidford (Lauren@centralnewburyport.org)

Central Happenings

WE NEED YOUR HELP THIS SUMMER

The 3 mothers are looking for volunteers for the summer to drive our Afghan mom, Shagufa, to the Farmers Market on some Sundays at 7:00 am. We are also looking for volunteers to work on English with our Afghan parents (Shafiqullah and Shagufa), once or twice a week in the mornings. We also need volunteers to help with occasional childcare (for 3.5 yo and 1.5 yo) over the summer (especially during English classes).

Thank you. The support from Central really means a lot to our family. Please contact Sarah 978-273-1512 sbseamans@icloud.com or Kelly 978-387-7730 mkpalma@comcast.net

WOMEN'S MINISTRY JUNE DINNER OUT

Women’s Ministry invites women of Central and friends to Dinner Out potluck Wednesday June 26th 6:30pm at Carrie Hometh’s home in West Newbury. Please RSVP to Sarah sbseamans@icloud.com or 978-273-1512 with what you would like to bring for the pot luck and then I can give you more details on directions to Carrie’s. Please carpool if possible as parking is a bit limited at Carrie’s. We look forward to seeing you there!

Sarah and Betty

Prepare for Summer, Prepare for Rest

Nourishing the Spirit returns to Central on June 25th at 6:00 - Focus on Rest

Nourishing the Spirit is Central Church’s dinner ministry and worship service for families with young children. We share a meal provided by Christian Education, participate in worship, hear a children’s story and a Bible story, and then ask ourselves questions about what it all means for us today. It’s a fun and interactive time together to build friendships, eat healthy, learn about God’s love and care for our bodies and spirits. Central Church will provide the meal. RSVP is requested so we can plan food servings accordingly. The focus on rest was chosen for the transition from the school year to summer vacation. Everyone is welcome. Please join us!

RSVP to the church office

info@centralnewburyport.org or call 978-465-0533.

Community News and Events

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.