“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances…” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18a)
MCC Hartford November 2024 Newsletter
Happy season of giving thanks, dear friends.
What a wonderful month just beginning – one that serves as a reminder and invitation to notice all that we might be grateful for. Do we take time to appreciate the splendor of the changing leaf colors, the harvest display of pumpkins and gourds, and the tastes of apple cider, turkey, and pie?
Beyond what our senses take in, do we also reflect with gratitude on those we love and care about and those who love and care about us? Can we imagine the blessings that God has waiting for us and hold on to the hope and possibility of things yet to come?
I love that we set aside a month to appreciate and be grateful; especially this year, in what can seem profoundly challenging, uncertain, and anxious times. Whatever happens during this election season, Thanksgiving invites us to stop for a moment to remember that God is indeed at work in our lives, country, and even through polarizing and fearful times. So, it is important (if not critical) that we take time to give thanks for what God is doing – yesterday, now, and future, within every circumstance and every season. A heart and spirit of gratitude reminds us of the radical hope found in the One we follow and the God who loves. Apostle Paul writes in his letter to the Romans (8:28), “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to God’s purpose.”
So, let us enjoy the simple (and joyful) moments of this season with God’s pallet of colors, bountiful harvest, savory treats, and table gatherings. In this way, blessings become etched in our minds and memory -- creating a spirit of gratitude--- for what we see and for that which is yet unseen. This serves to strengthen our faith and makes this season one that is grounded in love and goodness that will surely last far beyond any one season and beyond any election cycle. May it be so, I pray, may it be so. Amen.
Happy Thanks-giving, dear friends. I am giving thanks for this church and each of you, Pastor Aaron
Hope to see you in church or on Zoom -- Sundays at 10am!
MCC Hartford November 2024 Events Note: all Zoom meetings use the same link as Sunday worship (provided below)
Wednesdays: “FOOTPRINTS” a NEW Spiritual Journey Join us on Zoom from 7-8pm as we gather to hear a short story that inspires reflection and discussion. Come and check it out! Each week is different and we hope to leave ‘footprints’ on the minds and hearts of each other as we dive into the story’s meaning and welcome the revelations we might experience each Wednesday together. All are welcome.
Sunday November 3 at 2am ---- TURN YOUR CLOCKS BACK 1 HOUR!
Sunday November 3 ----- 3 CELEBRATIONS!
Sunshine Sunday Join us as we welcome a cup-full of ‘sunshine’ from our friends in Florida with Lay Pastor Jackie preaching.
Rite of Membership During the worship service, we will welcome our largest number of new members ever!! The table is growing MUCH wider---from Connecticut to Florida!
Birthday Sunday The first Sunday of each month we celebrate the birthdays of those born during that month. So, join us in singing ‘Happy Birthday’ after worship service.
Fellowship will include cake --- as we celebrate birthdays and our newest members!
Sunday November 3 – Member Packets for Annual Congregational Meeting (ACM) After worship service, the Board of Directors will be providing information (i.e. 2025 budget, Board candidate applications, and ballots for voting) for review prior to the Congregational Forum to be held the following Sunday, November 10. Members who are not in person during the worship service will receive their packets by mail.
Friday November 8 – MCC Hartford’s 51st Anniversary Celebration Join us from 7-9pm for ‘zero-alcohol’ beverages, (finger) food, fun, and fellowship---what better way to celebrate our church anniversary? A $15 (reverse numbers of 51) love offering is suggested and sponsorship is available.
Sunday November 10 – Congregational Forum After worship service, the Board of Directors will be providing information, introducing the Board of Directors’ candidates, and answer questions regarding the information provided in the packet -- before the congregational vote after the Forum. We ask all members to please attend in person or on Zoom.
Sunday November 17: Annual Congregational Meeting (ACM)
Pledge Forms will be blessed during the worship service. Please prayerfully complete the form with your commitment to participate and support the ministries of the church in the coming year. Completed forms may be submitted any Sunday (including ACM Sunday) -- left in the church office or given to the pastor.
ACM begins after the worship service; we ask that all members please attend if you can (via Zoom or in-person) -- as we conduct the annual business of the church. The vote tallies will then be officially recorded – electing 2 Board Members, approving the 2025 budget, and approving the 2023 minutes. There will also be updates on the ministries of the church. All are welcome to attend by Zoom or in person.
Wednesday November 20 –Transgender Day of Remembrance at 7pm Join us either on Zoom or in person as we gather once again as community for this annual event as we remember and honor the trans/nonbinary lives lost to anti-transgender violence and suicide. This year, it is more important than ever, given the times we are in – to gather in support and solidarity. Fellowship to follow. Seating is limited, please plan to come early.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you are in need of pastoral care, a prayer or support -- please contact the pastor by text/cell at (203)209-1504 or through email at: aaronmillerpastor@gmail.com We care about you.
