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Building an Inclusive Church Team Update
We would like to thank everyone who joined us for the official kick off to our Open and Affirming Journey. A special thanks to all who helped to set up, clean up and of course to those who brought delicious food to share. As was stated several times throughout the afternoon, this is only the beginning. We recognize that there are people who are ready to take the step to becoming an official ONA church right now, that there are those who are unsure and that there are those who are against it. For some this is very exciting for others it is fearful. Wherever you are, there is much more for all of us to learn about Open and Affirming. May we hold each other in prayer, asking for God’s guidance to show us the way on this journey.
During the meeting several people asked about next steps. We as a team will be meeting on May 24th to develop a schedule of events which will include times for learning and discussion. Our goal is to have that out to the congregation by early June.
In the meantime, we are each here for you and we always welcome honest and respectful questions and feedback. Don’t feel pressured to come before the team as a whole; we as individuals are available for discussions if you are more comfortable with that. However, please remember that we don’t have all the answers, nor do we claim to. This is a journey of faith and scripture, and we are walking that journey alongside you. We can answer questions to the best of our ability and will do our best to do so, and we simply ask that you are respectful and understanding of that as we continue this faith journey with you.
Please note that if you missed the meeting a recording of the presentation is available. If you would like to see it please contact the church office and they will share the link with you.
Yours in Christ,
Richard Tharp (Co-Leader)
Jake Higgins (Co-Leader)
Nancy Bergeron
Joan Cuetara
John Dozet
Liz Higgins
Gail Hiltunen
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MISSIONS MEETING DATE MAY 7 AT 11:15AM
This community of faith has had a long history of doing mission work and doing it well. Like everything else in life, things have changed and I think that this presents us with a perfect opportunity to take a fresh look at how we as a community of faith are being called to participate in the neighborhoods around us and in the world.
We will gather with those interested in mission outreach. We will discuss any mission ideas that you have and how we might go about bringing them into being. Please note, this is meant to be a working group. We are not only looking for ideas but for people who are willing to carry them forward into action.
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Dates are available for Altar Flower Signup for the remainder of 2023. If you'd like to signup, you can see Gail Hiltunen after worship, or you can do so online by clicking here to sign up. Once you've signed up you can mail in a check (put "flowers" in the memo) or pay via vanco online by clicking here.
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- May 20: Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
- June 17: Empire of the Summer Moon by S.C. Gwyne
- July 15: Big Lies in a Small Town by Diane Chamberlain
Click here to RSVP
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Prayers of Healing, Strength & Comfort for:
- The people of Ukraine
- All those who suffer with anxiety and depression
- Ally G. God's care and protection
- Katie, Jackie Sherwin's daughter
- Angela, Ceci's friend
- Jennifer B (Sue L.)
- Danielle (Melissa L's friend)
- Judy S. (Danny's Mom)
- Joan C.
- Susan P. A Friend of Liz Higgins
- Jane B.
- The people of Turkey and Syria
- Beth L. & Homer J.
- Sue I. Nancy's friend
- Baby Willow, Family friend of Sue L
- Lydia E.
- Sue, Betsy's sister
- Ron M., friend of Hope's
- Ray Gil For positive health results and healing (Diane O)
- Sara D undergoing cancer treatments (Diane O)
- Ben - Sara's Nephew dealing with Health issues
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Reminder that all announcements must be submitted to the office by noon on Wednesday for the "Spirit" and the Sunday Bulletin. Thank you.
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REV. MIKE'S CONTACT INFORMATION
If you are reaching out for non pastoral emergencies such as a prayer request and/or normal church business, please call the church office at (603) 964- 8687 ext. 2, or email at revmike@uccnorthhampton.org.
For pastoral emergencies ONLY, call 978-484-0049.
PRAYER CONCERNS AND PRIVACY
Where our services are streamed, please refrain from using individuals last names unless you have their express permission. Remember that whatever you say will be on the web for all to hear. If you would prefer to have Rev. Mike include the prayer please let him know before Sunday morning.
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CHURCH OFFICE HOURS
Tuesday through Friday, 8am-1pm
"Spirit" and Sunday bulletin deadline: Wednesday at NOON.
Danny Smith, Office Administrator
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