Sermon: “Going Camping”
Scripture: John 1:1-18; Ephesians 1:3-14
Note in the Gospel passage where v.14 typically is translated as “dwelt among us” or “made his dwelling with us”. The more literal, and suggestive translation from the Greek, would use the English words tenting or camping — an image meant (intentionally used by the author of the Gospel I believe) to evoke images of Jesus as “God with us” — while also reaching back to the work of God with the people of Israel in the wilderness, etc. The Gospel of John, written later than the Synoptic Gospels, brings to the fore through the narrative the fullest expression of the continuing work of God through the Spirit in our lives. What does it mean that God has tented among us (and with each of us individually still) through the presence of the Spirit? Think about our vulnerabilities in this life …..
Join us for worship on Sunday, January 5th at 10:30 a.m. and for coffee and fellowship after the service.
There will be a prayer meeting,
on Sunday, January 5th right after coffee hour in the Green Room. Jesus said, ‘When two or three are gathered in my name, I am there.” Bring your prayers about whatever joys or concerns you may have on your mind and in your heart. All are welcome.
Men’s Bible Study
Wednesday, January 8th: Men’s Bible Study at 6:30 p.m. at Panera Bread at Porter Square. Please contact Kevin, Josh, Solimar or Pierre for more details.
Horizons Bible Study
On Friday, January 10th, Horizons Bible Study will meet at the home of a church member, at 3:30 p.m. For more information, please contact Salam (salamlebbos@hotmail.com).
January 12th – Boston Food Justice Young Adult Volunteers presentation at CHPC
Boston Presbytery is in its first year as a site for the Young Adult Volunteer program of the PC(USA). Four talented “YAVs” are spending the year working with area congregations and non-profit organizations on the theme of “Food Justice” and will visit CHPC on Sunday, January 12th. In addition to participating in worship, they will make a presentation after the service about the YAV program in general and specifically their food justice work – from local food banks to global food security issues. Lunch will be provided, so please plan to come, invite friends and learn more about the combined efforts and important ministry of the YAVs. For any questions, please contact Ruth ruth.rhoads.allen@gmail.com
Session Meeting
Session will meet at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, January 13th.
Annual Meeting
The Annual Meeting is coming! Mark your calendars now, for Sunday, January 26th (with a snow date of February 2nd.) We will hold our congregational meeting in the basement, immediately following the service. It includes a potluck lunch. This is the time to hear reports from our pastor and from various committees about the work of the church during the past year, as well as having a chance to elect elders, deacons, and officers of the congregation.