Mission Committee delivers for community

Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor. Proverbs 14:21 The Mission Committee wrapped up another successful donation drive on Sunday, December 17, 2023, following a collaboration with the Christian Education Committee. Mission co-chair Kitty Rieske recruited several helpers, including members of the Confirmation class, to …

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Third Sunday of Advent includes pageant, reflections on peace

God has sent us a child — you have to take care of the baby. Ann Hulsing The third Sunday in Advent (Sunday, December 17, 2023) included a shortened version of the traditional NHCC pageant, which was incorporated into the worship service. Children and youth told the story of Jesus’ birth. Pageant helpers included Anna …

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Second Sunday of Advent focuses on inner peace

If you are accused of being a Christian, there should be enough evidence to convict you. Joyce Meyer After members of the Confirmation class lit candles to mark the second Sunday in advent (December 10, 2023), Dr. Anna McMahan reflected on ways to regain inner peace. Dr. McMahan, who provides family medicine in a busy …

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Rudolf survives surgery, promotes peace

NHCC friend and veterinarian Jeff Kaplan conducted illumination surgery on Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer and placed him and a second reindeer on the Lincoln Street lawn of Newton Highlands Congregational Church on December 7, 2023. With help from Moderator Sally Brickell and after several hours in the cold and a trip to the hardware store, …

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First Sunday of Advent includes messages about peace

Worshippers on Sunday, December 3, 2023, were treated to a message about negotiating for lasting peace from Kessely Hong, Newton Highlands Congregational Church member and negotiator and educator at Harvard Kennedy School. The Reverend Ken Baily preached about peace in the Bible (more than 250 mentions) and peace makers. “God says each of us has …

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Advent Market draws in and delights

The Advent Market on Sunday, December 3, 2023, drew visitors of all ages to the Newton Highlands Congregational Church Great Hall for an hour of shopping for good–to support nonprofits Church World Service, Family Promise Metrowest, Heifer International, Newton Food Pantry, and Rosie’s Place–gingerbread house decorating, health kit assembly, and socializing. Volunteer table staffers sold handmade …

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Ken Baily on couch

A message from the pastor

Freedom. Release. Rest. Comfort. Peace. Home. Rejoice. Savior. Recurrent words in Advent hymns Dear Friends in Christ, Everyone loves Christmas Carols — at least almost everyone around church. They have terms like “O come all ye,” and “Joy to the World,” and “Holy Night.” Marvelous terms. Advent hymns involve expectation, preparation, and wonder. And they are filled with terms …

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