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Central UCC
Central Congregational
United Church of Christ
 
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Rev. Lacey
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Senior Minister

Associate Minister

Rev. Lacey
Pastoral Fellow

Older Adult Day Program
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Sunday, September 27, 2015
Proper 21: Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Service of the Word and Table at 8:30  
 Celebration of Communion (every week)

 Service of the Word at 11:00 
Two choral anthems this week!

Preaching: Rev. Michael
Pericope: Mark 9:38-50
Lectionary Readings: Click here to read them

Worship Notes: 
While waiting for the Pope to speak to the US Congress, a political commentator quipped:  both political parties will claim words of affirmation and will ignore the harder words of challenge.

'Twas ever thus.

The pericope from Mark for Sunday is a collection of "Jesus sayings" after the "Second Passion Prediction."  The narrative arch of the story has Jesus and the disciples pointed to Jerusalem.  The road is hard and the sayings can sound odd and confusing. 

Near the anniversary of Gandhi's birth (2 Oct 1869), perhaps some words and stories from him can help provide a bit of guidance for the path that is ours and the challenges we face. Here's just one that is included in the liturgy for the morning:

"The difference between what we do and what we are capable of doing would suffice to solve most of the world's problems."

SILENT VIGIL AT CENTRAL: 
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29
For 14 years we have been regularly praying for Kelly Gissendaner and her children and Rev. Sally has been providing pastoral care to her; as you are likely aware, her execution is currently scheduled for Tuesday, September 29 at 7:00p.m.
On that night, the pastoral staff will hold a vigil for her, her children, and the family of Doug Gissendaner.  We will open the sanctuary at 6:30pm and a brief prayer will be offered about 6:55.  We will then hold a space of tender and compassionate spiritual silence and close with another brief prayer.
Of course, any and all are welcome to hold this space.  If you wish, you may bring a candle and place it on the Communion Table (there will also be candles available).
We have received generous gifts to the Parish Fund to provide support to her children during these most difficult days.  If you want, you may make a contribution:  make checks payable to Central UCC and note "Parish Fund" in the memo. 

Membership Exploration
(Office Area Conference Room
See Dates below when these three-sessions series are offered. Sundays occasionally through the year, 
9:45 to 10:30 am
Looking to journey with spiritual pilgrims? Have you been considering Central as your community of faith? This 3-part class is specifically designed to share stories and information about Central and the UCC with those who are considering membership. While attendance at all three sessions is not necessary and attendance at all classes does not obligate you to anything, participants will have the opportunity to join Central at the end of this series of classes. 

The upcoming class dates are:
Sept 27, Oct 4, 11; join Oct 18 
Nov 1, 8, 15; join Nov 22
Jan 10, 17, 24; join 
Jan 31 
Feb 28, Mar 6, 13; join Mar 20
Questions? Contact Michael


ADULT SUNDAY 
SPIRITUAL FORMATION
Click the title of each class to read more

Sundays, 9:30-10:45am (Room 204)
The Jesus Fatwah:  Love Your (Muslim) Neighbor, as Yourself (Living the Question DVD series).  Come join our small group at any time.  Our only dogma is "no-prep," so join us at any time.  You'll find lively conversation and a warm community. Sunday mornings. Contact: Sally Harrell 

Sundays, 9:30-10:45am (Room 206)
Practical Theology: A Just Peace Covenant Community Class studies, explores and takes action on current issues. The class shares leadership and begins each class with "How was your week?" and a short devotional.  All are welcome. 

Sunday, September 27:
THE NEW JIM CROW - Michelle Alexander.  We have a Study Guide for this book with sections/chapter groupings and discussion questions. Introduction and Chapter 1
Leader:  Jackie

Sunday, October 4:
Study:  THE NEW JIM CROW - Michelle Alexander
Lesson:   Most likely, we will need 2 weeks to complete the first section.

Sundays, 9:30-10:45am (Library, Fellowship Hall)
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. We close the door to create a quiet space but you are welcome to open it and come on in.
Contact:
Peter Benoit.

CHILDREN'S MUSIC
We welcome children in grades 1-5 to our group, which meets from 12-12:30 on Sundays.  We will be making music with our voices and with instruments.  Please add your child's voice to our group! 


Women's Daytime Book Group
Thursday, October 1, 1:30pm
The book is All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr.  This informal group meets in the Fireplace Room. Great conversation, read and attend as you can; no commitment. To be added to the group's email list, contact Geneva Benoit. 

EARTH TOPICS: First Thursdays
October 1 & November 5, 6:30 to 8:00 pm (Central UCC Fireplace Room)
Many of us want to share theologically and in practical ways about life on our planet. All are welcome to our gatherings. This Fall we will be presenting chapters from three writings: Hot, Flat & Crowded by Thomas Friedman, The Dream of the Earth by Thomas Berry and On Care for Our Common Home (Laudato Si') by Pope Francis. Reading is not required. The discussions are always lively and deepened by the breadth of experience of the attendees. 
Questions? Contact Rev. Ginnie: [email protected]
 
FELLOWSHIP OF THE GRAPE
October 3rd, 7:00pm
RobinLee Fitch and Dan Jones will host October Fellowship Of the Grape Saturday, October 3rd 7pm.  RobinLee and Dan have selected "Fall Flavors of Beers, Ales or Wines" as the selection for the month. This would include--pumpkin, apple, cinnamon, butternut squash, mushroom, caramel, pecan and sweet potato flavors (to name a few). Please bring any sweet or savory or hearty appetizer or dessert that will compliment this selection.   For those not familiar with FOG, attending is one 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: October 3rd, 2015 at 7:00pm.  RSVP by email to RobinLee

If you would like to be added to the mailing list for FOG, email coordinator RobinLee Fitch.

We look forward to seeing you at FOG.
WORSHIP REQUEST: LANGUAGES FOR WORLD COMMUNION SUNDAY
Sunday, October 4, is World Communion Sunday; as part of our worship for the morning, we would like to have the Prayer of Our Savior prayed in multiple languages while we share the bread and cup.  If you would like to offer an alternative language (so far we have French, Umbundu, Portuguese and Dutch):  [email protected]

ACOLYTE TRAINING
October 4, 12:15pm, Sanctuary
Through the centuries, acolytes have been faithful and conscientious people of faith of all ages. At Central UCC, beginning with fourth graders, this important ministry invites children and youth to lead us in 11:00 a.m. worship, bringing the light of Christ into our time together. For more information, please contact Rev. Ginnie 
Pet Blessing
Sunday, October 4, 2:00pm
Following the worship services on World Communion Sunday, there will be a pet blessing at 2:00. In truth,
we will be honoring the blessings they bring to us. All pets or pictures of pets are welcome and a time will be set aside to remember those beloved companions who have died. Contact Michael with any Questions.
Youth Fellowship
Saturday, Oct 10 (9am-1pm)
Next month we will be headed out to plant with Trees Atlanta! Since its beginnings, the primary goals of Trees Atlanta have been to replace trees lost to development, conserve existing trees, protect green space areas, and educate the community's residents and workers about the many benefits of trees. This is a great opportunity to get your hands dirty and learn about the ways Atlanta is staying green. We will head out to lunch afterward so please bring some cash. 
Questions? Want to chaperone this event? Contact Rev. Lacey.
 
Chili and Pumpkin Carving
Tuesday, October 13, 6:30-8:30pm
Join us for a fun fall time event for all ages. Please bring your own pumpkin. Vegetarian chili and bread will be provided. If you are dying to show of your Halloween costume a little early, feel free to dress up.
All ghosts, vampires, black cats, and witches are welcome! Questions? Contact Rev. Lacey  
FIRST AID / CPR CLASS OFFERED 
October, Dates TBA, 2 three-hour sessions
We will offer a certified First Aid / CPR class sometime during the first three weeks of October. It is a two-part class. We are grateful that one of our members, Judy Padgett, is offering this class for free. If you are interested, please email Rev. Ginnie and let her know what days of the weeks will work for you.
Contact Rev. Ginnie

TRIANGLES, CUT-OFFS AND FUSIONS - OH MY!!
Thinking about families ahead of the holidays!
Tuesday's, Nov. 3 & 10, 6:30 to 8:30 pm
As we look toward the holiday season, many of us are preparing to encounter our families either by force or by choice. This November Rev. Lacey and Rev. Michael will offer a two part series on new ways of thinking about family systems and anxiety. How might we change our behavior as we once again enter into the annual chaos of Thanksgiving and Christmas? Sometimes a new approach is all we need to enjoy the company of old familiar settings. Please join us! Questions? Contact Rev. Michael: [email protected] 


SUPPORTING PLYMOUTH HARBOR
Plymouth Harbor, a day program for older adults, meets at Central on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, as a ministry to older adults in our church and community who can benefit from structured activities that provide socialization and stimulation. Care is provided by staff and many volunteers from Central and the community who give freely of their time and talents. PH is in need of bingo prizes and desserts. If you would like to donate please contact the Director, Kay Coppage: [email protected]

Atlanta Interfaith Sisters
Our new program year begins on Tuesday, September 29, 6:30-8:30 with "Spirituals & Gospel Music" presented by professors Melva Costen & Mary Frances Early at Rocksprings Presbyterian Church, 1824 Piedmont Ave.  All are welcome.  Contact Joyce Myers-Brown ([email protected]) for more information.


VILLA INTERNATIONAL ATLANTA
Villa International is a 33-room residence on the Emory campus.  Since their doors opened in 1972, they have hosted over 25,000 residents from 147 countries. Their residents are primarily international researchers at the CDC and the Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University, but also include many others, such as public health professionals or all varieties, interning doctors, students and seminarians. Seven Christian denominations joined together to create this welcoming community where visitors can mingle with other residents and find acceptance, respect, and the comforts of home. The UCC is one of those denominations. Villa International would like to include a member of the UCC on their governing board. If you are interested in becoming a member of their board, please contact Rev. Ginnie: [email protected]

Justice Alert:
Hear the cry of the earth & the cry of the poor

This week, Pope Francis met with President Obama, address the U.S. Congress, and spoke to the United Nations. In his encyclical on the environment the Pope drew the world's attention to the adverse impacts of climate change upon the poor who often live in places particularly affected by severe weather events and rising sea levels. Wealthy nations such as the United States have led the way in filling the atmosphere with carbon and now the least of these are paying the price. In essence, the poor of the world are suffering from the actions of wealthy nations.

We have a moral obligation to address this legacy of harm by assisting developing countries in achieving a more resilient and sustainable future in the face of climate change. This can be done by calling on congress to fulfill our nation's $3 billion commitment to the Green Climate Fund, a UN initiative that aids developing nations in limiting or reducing their greenhouse gas emissions while also adapting to the unavoidable impacts of climate change..

The Pope's visit to the United States has heightened awareness of these environmental injustices, and as people of faith, we have the opportunity to help capitalize on this moment by calling for just policies.