“How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say ‘Your God reigns!” (Isaiah 52:7)
MCC Hartford January 2025 Newsletter
Happy New Year, dear members and friends.
As we once again pack away all the Christmas decorations and settle into the winter season, the Christmas carols and familiar words spoken by the angel-messengers are likely fading into memory. And yet, I believe the words spoken (more so a proclamation) to the shepherds while they watched over their flocks by night offer us some important guidance and a bright light to illuminate the way through this new year.
In Luke 2:10, “the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.” FEAR NOT for BEHOLD….
If we are fearful, we will miss the good tidings and great joy that is meant for us (yes, ALL of us) not just on Christmas morning but all throughout the year. This news was given under the cover of night in politically, socially, and religiously uncertain (and even dangerous) times. So, as we go through 2025, this good news is something we can carry with us. And, without fear, we will be able to witness the ‘new thing’ that God is doing and, more than see ---BEHOLD--- with awe, wonder, and gratitude.
Then, just as the angel brought this message of glad tidings and great joy, so can we. Let us be today’s angel-messengers who have “beautiful feet” (our human angel wings) that carry us and this wonderful (and important) message proclaiming peace and salvation and that God still reigns. This is “faith on the move” – and MCC Hartford’s theme going into this new year. The Good News of God’s unconditional love is indeed good and needs to be heard, especially in times like these.
May our ‘beautiful feet’ bring this message to all people.
Happy New Year, dear friends.
Pastor Aaron
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MCC Hartford January 2025
Schedule of Events
Note: All events are in-person except as noted.
To join events offered via Zoom, please use the link provided below.
Saturday January 4 from 12noon to 4pm — Name/Gender Free legal clinic. If you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community who is looking to legally change your name and/or gender marker on legal documents, we will be hosting a FREE legal clinic at the First Church of Middletown (190 Court Street). We offer help with navigating the name and gender marker process, provide information, paperwork assistance, support, and Pro Bono legal help onsite. Marriage services are also available. Now is a good time to get your legal documents in order and protect your family. Spread the word!
Sunday January 5 — Birthday Celebration On the first Sunday, we celebrate the birthdays of those born during that month. So, join us in singing ‘Happy Birthday’ after the worship service. And, yes, CAKE will be served after the service!
Wednesday January 8 at 12 noon — “Queering the Capitol: Visibility Matters” Join us at the Hartford Capitol (210 Capitol Ave) as we gather united in the Gallery of the House Chamber for the Governor’s State of the State Address and opening of the Legislative Session. Let’s make our voices heard (and seen) for Queer Rights Legislation, to ensure health and human services funding, and to combat discrimination. Wear as much queer gear as you can! This is organized by the LGBTQ+ Justice & Opportunity Network.
Saturday January 11 from 1pm to 5pm — Name/Gender Free legal clinic. If you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community who is looking to legally change your name and/or gender marker on legal documents, we will be hosting a FREE legal clinic at MCC Hartford (155 Wyllys Street). We offer help with navigating the name and gender marker process, provide information, paperwork assistance, support, and Pro Bono legal help onsite. Marriage services are also available. Now is a good time to get your legal documents in order and protect your family. Spread the word!
Wednesday Bible Study RESUMES January 15 — Join us on Zoom from 7-8pm for Bible Study. Each week we have thoughtful reflection and spirited discussion about scripture (and more) and what it might mean for our lives today. Please use the same link as Sunday worship (shown below). All are welcome! – the curious, the seeker, the adventurer, and each of us as learners and teachers. Faith is on the move!
Sunday January 26 — Board Meeting will be in person The business of the church will be done after worship service at our annual Board retreat/strategic planning for the coming year.
Join via Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/719817716
Important note: If you are in need of pastoral care, a prayer or support please contact the pastor by text/phone at (203)209-1504 or through email at: aaronmillerpastor@gmail.com
