Category Archives: Ministers’ Messages

Minister’s Message – “What Do You See?”

With these words, the Rev. John Dorhauer opened our Clergy Convocation on White Privilege. The question also implies what we do not – or cannot – see. Even for Sally May and me (neither one of us new to this … Continue reading

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Fall Beginnings – Minister’s Message

July and August. My long, hot summer of shifting sands in a new location is receding. Soon we will gather joyfully for Homecoming Sunday in joint worship (one worship service at 10am) on September 11. Over these two months, I’ve … Continue reading

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The Art of Discernment – Minister’s Message

I am a cradle roll Congregationalist; here are two brief stories about that identity. First, I was an ardent teen-aged member of the church during the height of the Vietnam War. As happens too often in our tradition, our congregation … Continue reading

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A Message from Minister Carrie Bail (July 21)

As of tomorrow (Friday, July 22), I will have been with you for three whole weeks! Many faces are starting to look familiar, as well as a few names, and I am settling into my new home environment next to … Continue reading

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Relationships, Community and the Risen Christ

Dear Friends, It is Easter. Some may believe that Easter was over on Easter Sunday, April 5th. In truth, we celebrate the power of the risen Christ for 50 days leading up to Pentecost on May 23. As we make … Continue reading

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Love, Forgiveness and Hope

Dear Friends, For many of us, God can feel like our adversary. We struggle with many things in the world and our lives, where we may conclude that God has brought this struggle upon us. Instead of a God who … Continue reading

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Finding Our Silent Night

Dear Friends, Advent is a time of anticipation. Awaiting the birth of Jesus, and his coming again to bring peace and justice to the earth. But, during this period of waiting and anticipation, it is important to be attentive to … Continue reading

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Teamwork

Dear Friends, One of the very best parts of being at First Church is learning the stories of so many wonderful people. It is a veritable feast! We do, indeed, find Christ through the relationships we build with one another. … Continue reading

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Collaboration Tuesday

Dear Friends, Tuesday, October 14 is an important day for our congregation. On that day, we will embark on an experiment to have committees meet on the same night to share basic information, build relationships and do some of their … Continue reading

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Embracing Our Community and Our Future

Dear Friends, I look forward to getting back together as a faith community on Homecoming Sunday, September 7. We will kick off the new program year with a joint worship with our brothers and sisters at New Alpha Missionary Baptist … Continue reading

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