MARCH 2017 First Churches of Northampton, UCC/ABC
PASTOR’S PAGE “Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” James Baldwin Lent is full of practices. It starts with ashes forehead as well as participating in the on the forehead. Give something up, and national “Glitter Ash” witness with LGBTQ let the lack of it remind you that all things people. (see page 4). come from God. Spend time in self- See page 2 for a full Lent and Holy Week examination. Read and reflect on the Worship schedule. scriptures. Give of yourself to people in need. Work towards the Beloved Mission Theme – “Making Neighbors Out Community of justice and of Strangers” peace. Share in bread and Lent is a good season to cup to be in solidarity with remember the multi-racial Jesus, who shares our nature of the church and suffering in the world. the multi-faith nature of our These are the ancient world. It is a season to live paths we walk, even into the call of Christ, who though we may use has “broken down the modern expressions. dividing wall of hostility between us.” March is full These practices prepare us of opportunities for mission for Easter, and to live in and ministry with Syrian hope. It is hard to face refugees, offering sanctuary and solidarity ourselves and our imperfections. Injustice with immigrants, and receiving the One and suffering in the world raise our Great Hour of Sharing offering. Find out anxiety. But when we face our challenges more on page 3 about how you can make with the ancient practices of faith, we find neighbors out of strangers. community and solidarity by engaging together, we find healing as we are upheld House Church Book Groups and Monday by God’s love, and we find courage as we Noon Bible Study – Starting Right Now! work together. We can face anything, Nearly 50 people are signed up in 8 weekly together with God. Here is a quick groups. The first week is right now, Feb. summary of the worship, mission and 27 – March 5. Contact the church office, study opportunities for Lent. [email protected], if you still need Worship Themes a book or want to join. Go to page 6 for the Ash Wednesday is March 1. This year we reading schedule as well as the weekly will be offering the traditional ashes to the readings for Bible Study.
~ Pastor Todd