Its rising is from the end of the heavens, and its circuit to the end of them, and there is nothing hidden from its heat.
Psalm 19:6
Congregants sang “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee” as they gathered for the June 21, 2026, worship service at Newton Highlands Congregational Church, UCC.
In his meditation, the Reverend Dr. Ken Baily contrasted tired, defeatist phrases such as “Been there, done that,” with inspirational words from the Bible.
“‘There are over 500 stories of joy and gladness and happiness’ in the Bible,” he said.
He also spoke about maintaining hope in times that can feel unjust. “Justice and joy are connected in Jewish and Christian faith,” he said.
The service ended with congregants forming a circle to hear words of gratitude for volunteers, the choir, educators, and more, and to sing “For Everyone Born.”
For the postlude, organist Yevgenia Semeina surprised and delighted the assembly by playing “Rhapsody in Blue” (G. Gershwin) on the piano.
The service was followed by an ice cream social hosted by the Christian Education Committee.
