As Newton Highlands Congregational Church, UCC, parishioners reconvene after a balmy summer 2025, they are sharing stories and comparing notes.
Ann Hulsing and Ethan Bolker
Ms. Hulsing and Mr. Bolker were married at the church on August 20, 2025. The Reverend Dr. Ken Baily officiated. In honor of the bride’s floral dress, the Reverend Baily sported a floral tie.
“Afer our vows we celebrated with cake, sparkling cider, and candied walnuts,” reported Ms. Hulsing. “It was a sweet, sweet day.”
Carol H.
“We (husband, step kids, and families (minus one granddaughter)) enjoyed our annual Texans/Newtonians get together at Dumpling House in Newton.”
Wendy Donnell
Ms. Donnell spent part of her summer on a sabbatical in Italy, with visits to several sacred venues, including the Vatican in Rome. She also drove west to Amherst, MA, for a visit with the Reverend Susan Cartmell.
Sally Brickell
“I spent a week in Mesa, AZ, with my family. We had a blast seeing the world’s largest pipe organ! And yes, it was extremely hot.”
Holly and Michael Grieb
“It was a busy summer spent traveling for personal and work purposes. We started in June going to Florence and Paris to visit Ainsley, who was studying abroad, and ended with a work trip to London.”
Alex and Gena Bezdek
“We are so grateful for a wonderful summer, one that included a Harry Potter-themed birthday party for Edie, lots of time for George in his lion costume guarding the Pridelands of our backyard, and a family trip to Vermont with Gena’s family from California.”
Kitty Rieske
“My summer vacation included a trip to Maine, gardening 🧑🌾, and our annual trip to Lake Winnipesaukee. BTW the house was Mille McMullin’s vacation home.”
Liz Ramos
“We took a sailboat ride on the Cape and saw an amazing rainbow and stunning sunrise!”
Liz Simpson
“This summer we spent time at the magnificent Niagara Falls. It was unforgettable, with the thunderous roar of the waterfalls and mist rising in the warm air creating a breathtaking scene. Time spent there felt both peaceful and powerful, a perfect blend of nature’s beauty and energy and the wonder of God’s creation.”
