prEview

This Sunday in worship…

our readings from the first gospel continue as we hear Mark 1:29-39.  After a long day of teaching and casting out evil spirits, Jesus retires to the home of Simon Peter.  Upon his arrival, he finds that his work for the day is not over.  There are many people in need of healing, beginning with Simon’s mother-in-law.  As word spreads through the neighborhood that Jesus has arrived, crowds begin to gather at the door of Simon’s house transforming it into a place of healing.  What would happen if Jesus came to your house? 

Communion Sunday

On the first Sunday of every month, the congregation celebrates the sacrament of Communion together.  As the bread is broken and the cup shared, we experience Christ’s presence among us and within us, strengthening us for service in Christ’s name.  We welcome all who want to participate in our community of faithful service to join us.

“Girls Only” youth group meets this Sunday

The Girls Only youth group will meet at 3:00 pmthis Sunday.  We will prepare to lead worship at Glencrest, then come back to the church for pizza and fun until 7. 

Circle for Quantum Spirituality discusses healing prayer February 8

The Circle for Quantum Spirituality will discuss healing prayer at it next gathering.  The group welcomes all “spiritual but not religious” people and anyone interested in the topic to join them at 7:15pm on Wednesday evening, February 8, in the church parlor.  “Be the gift that you are.”

Thrift Shop news

Thanks to everyone who helped transport the HUGE donation from the dollar store last weekend.  The donation included many boxes of wrapping paper, housewares, decorative items, clothing accessories, cosmetics, jewelry and much, much more.  Some of the items are in the Shop, others have been set aside for sale at a children’s gift table at the Chocolate Festival in May.  There is also talk of a tag sale later in the year.  Stop in to the Thrift Shop for the best selection- and stay to help!

Chocolate lovers-Save the date

On May 12, First Church will hold its First Annual Chocolate Festival.  Select vendors of chocolate, coffee, tea and gift items will be on hand to tempt you with their offerings.  Treat your mother or yourself!  Many vendors will be bringing samples and all will have items for sale.  Contact Jan Hamlin for more information or to volunteer to help.

He’s back

Church Council is very pleased to share with you the news that Greg Griffin will be returning to First Church in a new role.  Greg, who was the 2010-2011 seminary intern at First Church, has agreed to serve as supply pastor beginning February 20.  Greg will preach each week, cover emergency pastoral needs and be in the office one day a week.  Although Greg has been approved for ordination, he has not yet been ordained; so Church Council will be asking the Fairfield East Association of the CT Conference to “license” Greg so that he is authorized to officiate at communion and other rites of the church.  Greg will begin preaching on February 26.

It doesn’t seem busy but…

there is lots going on behind the scenes at First Church.  Plans are being made for a chocolate festival in May, boards are being re-formed and re-vitalized, a search committee is being recruited.  Pastor Laura is focusing on ending her ministry at First Church and helping to ensure a smooth transition to an in-between time with Greg Griffin as supply pastor.  The Thrift Shop and shelter continue to be very busy and the daily work of a faith community continues.  Now more than ever, your prayers and support are needed.  So pitch in wherever you can- First Church needs you!

Coming in February

February 5, 10am                   Worship and Communion

                      3-7pm                Girls Only youth group

                      4pm                   Vespers at Glencrest led by the Girls Only youth group and Pastor

                                                            Laura

February 8, 7:15pm                Circle for Quantum Spirituality, church parlor

February 12, 10am                 Worship and church school

February 14, 7pm                   Church Council

February 19, 10am                 Worship, Pastor Laura’s last Sunday

                       11am                Farewell brunch

February 26, 10am                 Worship and church school    “Community Table”

Greg Griffin preaching