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Central UCC
Central Congregational
United Church of Christ
 
IN THIS ISSUE
Sunday Worship: Feb. 16
The Messenger
Safe Church Training
Kim Sorrells' Ordination
Contribution Statements
Children
Youth
Practical Theology
Sacred Journeys
Great Decisions Feb-April 2014
Inquirer's Series
Equipment Usage
Salt Shakers
Fellowship of the Grape March 1
Women's Daytime Book Group March 6
Hosts and Cooks
Wildflowers and Butterflies
Sanctuary Flowers
Name Tags
PH: Hospitality Volunteers Needed
PH: Substitute Dish Washers Needed
PH: Desserts Needed
Toco Hills Food Pantry
Montclair Elem. School
Back Bay Mission Trip
 
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United Church of Christ 






Sunday, February 16, 2014 
Sixth Sunday after Epiphany


LECTIONARY READINGS (Click to read them)
Rev. Michael, preaching

 

WORSHIP NOTES

 The text for Sunday is part of Moses' "farewell" speech to the Hebrews; the great liberator who confronted Pharaoh, the visionary leader who led the people through wilderness wanderings is "120 years old and no longer able to get about" (31:2).  The one who crossed the Red Sea will not cross the River Jordan.

 

Moses again presses the people to consider the choice that is before them: life and prosperity or death and adversity - blessings or curses.  Again and again, emphasis is placed on the fact that God has been, is now, and will be with them on their journey; all the people need do is notice and choose.  The "Promised Land" is not a geography, it is an intentional community - it is a series or repeated choices.

 

We, too, can make the "Promised Land" about geography, or more likely, about something that is unattainable in this life.  What if the soil of the Promise Land is best cultivated in our own souls?  What might happen if we chose, in the little decisions of life and relationship, "blessings" over "curses?" 

The Messenger - February 2014
(Central's Print Newsletter) 

We are bringing back to print an occasional print newsletter for folks who like print over email for monthly news and for visitors. It is a place for celebrations and a place to find ways to get involved. Enjoy!
Click here for The Messenger.
SAFE CHURCH TRAINING
(Sunday, Feb. 16, 9:30 AM, Window Room 2, Fellowship Hall) 

There will be a Safe Church Training for people who volunteer with children. At Central UCC, we work together to make our church safe for all children. Please email Rev. Ginnie if you would like to attend or if this date doesn't work but you would like a Safe Church Training.

KIM SORRELLS'

ORDINATION TO CHRISTIAN MINISTRY IN THE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

February 23, 2014, 4:00 PM
Central Congregational UCC, Sanctuary

 

Kim Sorrells will be ordained as a minister of the United Church of Christ by the Southeast Conference UCC and Central Congregational UCC. Kim Sorrells is a member of Central and now serves as a Trustee. During her years at Candler Theological Seminary, she served as a Sunday School Superintendent, Confirmation teacher and Youth Leader. She is now on staff at St. Marks UMC in Atlanta. She is being called to work with youth and young adults and to lead the spiritual formation program of the whole congregation. In the life of the church, an ordination is a celebration for the entire church to support. Please join us at Central UCC at 4:00 PM on Sunday, February 23 with your presence and/or your prayers. Clergy from all denominations are invited to robe and process (red stoles).


Contribution Statements
 
Contribution statements were mailed / emailed on January 13, 2014.  If you have yet to receive yours please email Martha Smith.
Children & Youth
CHILDREN

 

CHILDREN'S SUNDAY SCHOOL

AND CHILDCARE 

 Sunday school for 3 & 4 year olds and for Kindergarten to 2nd Grade will be during the 11:00 AM worship.  Childcare for infants to 2nd Grade will be available through the morning from 8:30 am to 12:15 pm.  3rd to 5th Grade Music & Sunday School and Youth Worship will remain at 9:30 AM.  If you would like to volunteer to help teach the 3 & 4 year old children, please contact Rev. Ginnie.

 

8:30 - 12:15 PM               Infant and Childcare

 available (Rms 201, 202)

 

9:30 - 11:00 AM              Infants to 2nd Grade -

 Childcare (Rms 201, 202)

 

9:30 - 9:55 AM                3rd to 5th Grades - 

Music (Rm 209)

10:00 - 10:50 AM            3rd to 5th Grades - 

Godly Play (Rm 208)

 

11:00 - 12:10 PM             3 & 4 year olds - 

Sunday school (Rm 205)

11:00 - 12:00 PM             K to 2nd Grade - 

Godly Play (Rm 207)

12:00 - 12:15 PM             K to 2nd Grade -

Childcare (Rms 201, 202)

YOUTH WORSHIP  
AND OTHER ACTIVITIES

 

Sunday Youth Worship  

(February 16, Trip to Atlanta Taskforce for the Homeless, leaving at 9:30 AM from the church.) 

We will be giving out hygiene kits.

 

Global Village  

(February 28-March 1)

We will have an overnight trip to the Calvin Center to experience the living and working conditions of developing countries. We will gather in the late afternoon on February 28 and be back mid afternoon on March 1. Meals are included on this trip.

 
Questions?  
Please contact Youth Minister Lacey Brown.
For Adults:
Ongoing and Special Educational Gatherings
ONGOING SUNDAY GATHERING:  

PRACTICAL THEOLOGY  

A Just Peace Covenant Community

(Sundays, 9:30 to 10:45 AM 

Room 206, Education Wing )

 

The Practical Theology class (Room 206) studies, explores and takes action on Current issues.  The class shares leadership and begins each class with "How was your week?" sharing time and a devotional.  New members are always welcome.

 

Sunday, February 16 : 

First chapter of Non-Violent Communication  

by Marshal Rosenberg.

It is a small book and class thought it would carry until Great Decisions is over then we can get back to the books we have also been thinking about.   

 

Elnor Holcombe suggested two books for a future time:  The Best of Enemies by Osha Gray Davidson and The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander.  

 

Devotion: Nancy Wetzel agreed to do the devotion Facilitator: Dave Spence  


Questions? Contact George and Jackie 

ONGOING SUNDAY GATHERING: 
SACRED JOURNEYS

(Sundays, 9:30 to 10:50 AM

Fellowship Hall, Steinhaus Library)

 

Each week this group explores how spirit guides our personal journeys, and we gain new insights by listening to each other.  It is a sacred hour +, from 9:30 to about 10:50, where the discussion might be inspired one week by a poem, another by an excerpt from a book, a film clip, or an audio tape.  You do not need to read or prepare in advance, and you can join this class from time to time, whenever you wish.  Sacred Journeys is wide open.  We close the door to create a quiet space but you are welcome to open it and come on in. Get to know new people at Central or revisit old friends and explore how the spiritual intertwines with the personal for you. 

GREAT DECISIONS 
(Sundays, Feb 9 - Apr 13, 
9:30-10:45 AM
Room 204, Education Wing)

 

GREAT DECISIONS (Sundays, Feb 9 - Apr 13, 9:30 to 10:45 AM - Fellowship Hall, WR2)

On Sunday mornings, this eight week series begins on February 9. We will be in recess on March 9 due to a congregational Church Chat. The class provides a forum for challenging conversations on world issues. The topics this year are: Future of the euro, Egypt, NATO, Myanmar and Southeast Asia, Iran, China in Africa, and Threat assessment. Great Decisions provides background information, current data, and policy options for each of the eight issues and serves as the focal text for discussion groups. The book cost is $25. It includes a class video which is shown at each meeting as a discussion starter.  For more information or to sign up, contact Mary Ellen Myers 

INQUIRERS CLASS 
(Sundays, February 16, 23, March 2, 9:45 to 10:30 AM - Office Area Conference Room) 

Joining March 9

Rev. Michael will host a three-session Inquirers' Series from 9:45 to 10:30 AM in his conference room (office suite).  The sessions are designed for visitors to get to know him and each other a little better and explore both Central and the United Church of Christ. Attendees, of course, are not required to join following the sessions, but may if they feel ready to do so. 

The Spring series will be April 6, 13 & 27 -joining May 4.  To register or for more information:Rev. Michael

CHURCH EQUIPMENT 

USAGE SCHEDULE

 

All requests for use of a TV and DVD player need to be scheduled with the Office Administrator, Charlotte Shirley.  There is a 42 inch and a 30 inch TV (with DVD player) available for use.

Provide Charlotte the following information:         

  • A dated request in writing.
  • The date/dates needed.
  • The room in which the equipment is to be used.
  • The size of the TV requested/preferred.

NOTE:  Requests are granted on a first come/first served basis.

 Gatherings
Salt Shakers - Spring 2014 Season

You are invited to join the Salt Shakers - a group of Central folks who meet for dinner with the soul purpose of getting to know each other better. This Spring we will meet on the 4th Saturdays (Feb. 22, March 22, and April 26). Each dinner is hosted by a member and includes about 8 people. To join us, please email Salt Shakers or talk with Alisha. We look forward to getting to know you!

 

FELLOWSHIP OF THE GRAPE
(Saturday, March 1, 7:00pm)
 

Central's FOG will be hosted by Gwen Gable Saturday, March 1st at 7pm at her condo clubhouse.  To celebrate St Patrick's Day she suggested we honor the Irish with Irish Brews and Ales and Irish Whiskeys, and, of course, Irish wines of your choice.  Gwen will prepare smoked salmon (with dill of course...something green). Any and all Irish-style appetizers or dishes, desserts or snacks to share that will pair with the beverage you bring will be appreciated.  For those not familiar with FOG, attending is of the best ways to meet Central's members and visitors of all ages and stages of life in a casual setting.  The tastings are not formal, just informative.  You don't have to be a church member to attend and all are welcome!  Event Details: March 1st, 2014 at 7:00pm.  RSVP to host Gwen Gable  for her address. If you would like to be added to the mailing list for FOG, contact coordinator  Robin Lee Fitch.  We look forward to seeing you at FOG!

 

Women's Daytime Book Group

(Thursday, March 6, 1:30-2:30 PM,
Fireplace Room)


The next gathering is Thursday, March 6 at 1:30 in the Fireplace Room.  We are reading a selection of books:  Still Christian After All These Years by Barbara Allen (out of print, but available from Amazon) and/or any book by Barbara Brown Taylor.  Her best known and best selling are Leaving Church (2006) and An Altar in the World (2009).  All are welcome.  Send an e-mail to Geneva Benoit if you would like to be on the group's email list.

Opportunities to Share

HOSTS, SANDWICH MAKERS, COOKIE BAKERS

 

If any of the above are the way you like to help out, please send your name to the Fellowship Committee. For memorial service receptions, various celebrations or all-church events, the Deacons and Fellowship Committee send an email to request food and serving helpers. Your phone won't ring, and there's no obligation to say Yes every time.  But you'll be part of what may be the largest non-standing, most serving, un-committee of Central.  Email Fellowship to add your name and email address.

WILDFLOWERS 
& BUTTERFLIES

 

We're creating a native wildflower habitat in "Cindy's Garden".  The wildflowers will attract colorful butterflies and other pollinators including bees, hummingbirds, and beetles.

 

Approximately 25 different wildflower species will habitat here, flowering at various intervals from March into November.  They will provide nectar for pollinators and food for their larvae (caterpillars).  For instance, Butterfly Milkweed will provide nectar for the Monarch Butterfly, and food for its larvae as well.

 

Educational signage will inform curious folks about the plants in bloom, and the pollinators and larvae associated with these wildflowers.  We'll learn about flora and fauna Native Americans may have discovered here generations ago.  Our European ancestors changed the wild landscape they found.  Did you know that our property was once a cotton farm?

 

So we plan to reintroduce a small "wild place" at central that will benefit many pollinators and other insects.  Certainly, we look forward to enjoying the experiment.  But most importantly, we will be helping to sustain our insect populations, which are in serious decline because of loss of habitat and use of pesticides. If you have questions or want to help, please contact Ron Smith

SANCTUARY FLOWERS 

There is a sign up sheet for Sanctuary flowers in the Commons area on the black bulletin board.  The black bulletin board is located by the double doors that lead out to the reflecting pond.  Please feel free to choose your date and sign your name on the Sunday that you would like to give flowers, you will be contacted the week before to confirm that you will be giving flowers.  If you do not think the church has your contact information please include it with your signature.  If you would like the office manager to order the flowers for you, please submit a check to the office for your order and let the office manager know what you would like (color, size, etc) when you are contacted.  Any questions please contact Charlotte.

NAME TAGS


If you need a name tag please email our office manager, Charlotte.  Please note we print name tags six at a time, there may be a brief waiting period. 

FOR PLYMOUTH HARBOR:

Hospitality Volunteers Needed 

 

Plymouth Harbor needs volunteers to sit by the entrance doors and welcome the participants and their families on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.  Most people arrive between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM, making this very appreciated contribution an easy morning. Please contact Kay  if you are interested.

FOR PLYMOUTH HARBOR:

Substitute Dish Washers Needed

Plymouth Harbor, the adult day care program held here on Central's campus, is looking for substitute dish washers on an 'as needed' basis.  If you are interested in being put on the call list please email Kay Coppage.
FOR PLYMOUTH HARBOR:
Donate Desserts

Left over brownies?  Sale at the bakery?  Plymouth Harbor would happily accept dessert donations on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.  Please feel free to drop them off ahead off time or on the day of, place them in the fridge and label them 'For Plymouth Harbor' with the date.  Donations greatly appreciated.
Toco Hills Community Alliance Needs You!!

THCA has started the year with a bang!  We served twice as many people in the first week of 2014, as we did in the first week of 2013, and things are not slowing down.  We are thankful for our volunteers, who have handled this seamlessly, but we need more help in the afternoons, 1-4pm. THCA is looking for people to volunteer, one or two afternoons a month, from 12:15 -4pm.  For more information, contact Mary Louise WIlson.

 

We can still use more plastic grocery bags for client food assistance.  And always we need your gifts of food items such as canned vegetables, canned meat, rice and peanut butter. Please drop off your donations in the receptacle in the narthex marked "Toco Hills".  Thank you.

You, Mission & Action and Montclair Elementary School

 

Between Central and Buford Highway there is an elementary school of about 1200 students with 90% of those students receiving a free or reduced price lunch as well as breakfast at school. It's time to move from studying hunger and poverty to some actions in our own little corner of the world where hunger is evident. Montclair Elementary School is where we would like to begin. We are in the planning stages. Check out the sign up lists out in the Commons!

 

OUTREACH OPPORTUNITIES:

You, Mission & Action  

and Montclair Elementary School

We continue to collect winter coats, school supplies and monetary donations for future projects for Montclair Elementary School. 

This Fall, so far, we have given:

  • 92 light and heavy winter jackets, hoodies and sweaters
  • Over 225 hats
  • 28 pair gloves
  • 6 scarves
  • 1 pair boots
  • 9 pair socks
  • Assorted clothing
  • 1 blanket
  • 3 backpacks
  • Large box of school supplies plus more
  • 15 Thanksgiving "baskets"
  • 15 Christmas "baskets"
Thank you Central for your wonderful generosity!
 

An Opportunity to 

Serve and Be in Community Back Bay Mission Trip

September 21-27, 2014

 

Now is the time to consider signing up for an unforgettable experience. On our mission trip to the UCC Back Bay Mission in Biloxi, Mississippi, we will be participating in the Housing Recovery/Work Camping. If you think that working on houses is too much, there is also work inside at the food pantry. We will also need a cook or two to prepare all the meals during our week in Biloxi. And there are other ways to support this mission trip. Whatever your gifts for service are, we look forward to you being part of the Back Bay Mission Team.

 

If you have questions, interest, or wish to be a work camper in September, please contact Jean Haller or Bill O'Steen