March 30 service revisits Prodigal Son parable; Community Choir gathers

God’s signs and wonders are here for us.

The Reverend Dr. Ken Baily

On Sunday, March 30, 2025, at Newton Highlands Congregational Church, UCC, the Reverend Dr. Ken Baily explained ways in which the actions attributed to the Prodigal Son would have been “incredibly offensive” to the early church. “He ate with sinners and he went to bad places,” the Reverend Baily noted. He then spoke about God’s ability to embrace both the “bad” prodigal son and his “good” brother.

As he concluded his meditation, he said, “We keep hearing God say, ‘Take what is right in front of you and do something with it.'”

In honor of Pledge Sunday, Steve Willner, chair of the Stewardship Committee, spoke about how the church relies on pledges to remain strong. See how Mission and Christian Education flow from stewardship.

Children led the congregation in singing “If You’re Happy and You Know It.”

For their choral benediction, the Community Choir sang “Out of the Depths.”

Organist Yevgenia Semeina closed the service with Sonata #8, “Finale” (J. Rheinberger).

Deacon Tann Scott assisted Moderator Sally Brickell with fellowship after worship.

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