by eventblog@dm1n | Feb 20, 2021 | Weekly Update
Dear CCGR Family,
February 14, 2021 Worship Service
Pastor Terry’s sermon title, Get on With Living
Scripture Reading: Matthew 6: 24-34 Nancy Walters
“No one can serve two masters; for a slave will either hate the one and love the other, or be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.
‘Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life? And why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? Therefore do not worry, saying, “What will we eat?” or “What will we drink?” or “What will we wear?” For it is the Gentiles who strive for all these things; and indeed your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
‘So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today’s trouble is enough for today. This is the Gospel of the Lord.
As we all face challenges of many types, may we reflect on Pastor Terry’s message about “worry”‘. “Worries”‘ can cause consumption of thought, agitation, stress, and may even affect our relationship with God and our trust in Him. Putting God first as our primary focus and trusting in His guidance — reminding ourselves that He knows our every need — should provide us with the comfort and direction to face today’s ‘concerns’, so they will not become ‘worries’.
Here’s a prayer shared by Donna regarding this:
“I asked the Lord to bless you as I prayed for you today,
To guide you and protect you as you go along your way.
His love is always with you; His promised are true,
and when we give Him all our cares, you know he’ll see us through.
So when the road you’re traveling seems difficult at best,
just remember I’m here praying that God will do the rest.”
The words of the sermon combined with the beautiful music, “This I Pray” and “Come Follow Me” sung by Beth Valenti accompanied by Janet Montroy created the backdrop for contemplating how we can continue to put our trust and love in God first. One cannot focus on loving God and worrying both at the same time.
Grateful for our devoted Church members and staff: We are so grateful to have not only Pastor Terry but Janet Montroy and Boyd Lowry each week to help keep us all connected! When you have a minute, take the time to let them know how much you appreciate their work on our behalf.
PRAYING FOR EACH OTHER
“The value of persistent prayer is not that God will hear us, but that we will finally hear God.” William McGill
We pray for Connie and the whole SInkway/Emery family. As Robin writes, “Connie Sinkway passed away peacefully at home on February 12th. She was so committed to Community Church, serving as high school youth advisor, church secretary, involved member of the Whole Life Academy, deacon and a member of the choir for 50 + years. She was a competitive tennis player and professional instructor, bridge player, golfer, cheerful, hard-working volunteer and was a super fan of all her kids and grandkids activities. Oh yes, we can’t ever forget her love of the football Giants and her Yankees (especially Jeter!). She kept a positive, fighting attitude, laced with a bit of sarcastic humor until the end. Her faith was strong and her friends and church family sustained her. Her family thanks you for your love and support.”
Please continue to pray for all of our church members and families. This has been a difficult time for almost all of us. Some of us because of loss and grief, some for health issues and some for other types of challenges. Most of us are struggling and are comforted to know others are praying for them.
Please continue your special prayers for: The family of Ruth and Richard Strickland, Phil and Elizabeth Gulmy, Kim Briggs, Carolyne Gulmy Monti, Jean Franklin, Bob Freudenrich, Janice Roed, Beryl Ferrari and Donna Nihen.
CCGR PRAYER CHAIN
The prayer chain consists of a small group of people who pray daily for people in our congregation- especially for those who wish to keep their needs and prayers private and confidential. For those more ‘private’ prayer requests, please email requests to:
Candy Hall at candy.hallccgr@gmail.com and Donna Nihen at blackvelvet1299@aol.com, and of course, Pastor Terry at pastor@communitychurchgr.com.
What’s Happening in the next few weeks:
Ageless Grace Continues at 9am on Wednesday mornings.
Come to Fellowship Hall or via Zoom –
Join Sara Lowry for our weekly Ageless Grace class- a brain health fitness program. The zoom link is sent to all members prior to Wednesday. To learn more about this program please go to agelessgrace.com
Save the Date: March 15, 2021
Join the Fight Against Hate! A conversation featuring Attorney General Grubir Grewal and other leaders whose goal is to educate and inspire action against hate. The Religious Communities of Glen Rock (RCGR) along with the Community Relations Advocacy Network (CRAN) and the National Anti-Defamation League (ADL) will be sponsoring this event. Panelists will speak about trends, taking action and joining efforts to conquer hate at all levels with a Q and A to follow. More information to come.
RCGR is continuing their weekly messages of hope, unity and healing each week on facebook.com/glenrockinterfaith.
Vision Planning Update! We want to hear from you!
Members of the Vision Planning Committee thank the choir and the rest of the Music Ministry for sharing their ideas about the church and our community through Zoom.
Over the next few weeks, the team will be inviting the Church School parents and members of the Prayer Chain to share their ideas. After that the team will be setting up Zoom conferences with individuals as well as those involved with some of our other church groups. We hope that when you are contacted, you will be able to find the time to take part. After all, it is the Community Church or, Your Church. Now more than ever, your input will be helpful in shaping the future!
CCGR Book Club
Next CCGR Book Club will be meeting via Zoom on
Friday, March 12th at 7 p.m.
“Born a Crime, Stories from a South African Childhood” by Trevor Noah
Everyone is welcome. Contact Kim Franklin at
kfranklin@mlschools.org is you want to join.
For other news around town:
Don’t forget to check glenrocknj.net and glenrocklibrary.org for additional community news and updates
And finally, please remember to support Community Church – your church:
You can donate on our website: https://communitychurchgr.com , set up auto-pay through your bank or pay by mail.
Thank you!
by eventblog@dm1n | Feb 12, 2021 | Weekly Update
Dear CCGR Family,
February 7, 2021 Worship Service
Pastor Terry’s sermon title, Listen Up, Class!
Scripture Reading: Matthew 5: 1-12; Read by Robin Emery
When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. “Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy. “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. This is the Gospel of the Lord.
Pastor Terry’s sermon provided us with a new way of hearing the Sermon on the Mount. He spoke about the blessedness of the here and now. A blessedness Christians have already entered -immune to influences of life. Human happiness depends on life’s circumstances – but the Christian happiness cannot be surpassed or taken away – that comes from Christ in our lives. If you haven’t had a chance, listen to the beatitudes in this new way- As Pastor Terry states, the Sermon on the Mount is the core essence of Christianity.
The words of the sermon combined with the beautiful music, “Come thou Fount” and “the Lord’s Prayer” sung by Melanie Lota and “Be thou my vision” played by Janet Montroy helped create the ground for our own soul searching of how through the meditation of Jesus’ teaching on the beatitudes can help us live with love, compassion and forgiveness.
We are so grateful to have not only Pastor Terry but Janet Montroy and Boyd Lowry each week to help keep us all connected! When you have a minute, take the time to let them know how much you appreciate their work on our behalf.
PRAYING FOR EACH OTHER
“When you can’t put your prayer into words, God hears your heart.”
Anonymous
Please continue to pray for all of our church members and families. This has been a difficult time for almost all of us. Some of us because of loss and grief, some for health issues and some for other types of challenges. Most of us are struggling and are comforted to know others are praying for them.
We particularly mourn the loss of Ruth McWilliams Strickland who passed away on February 1, 2021. A dedicated Community Church member, wife, mother and friend to so many, she created and maintained the church library for many years. Her upbeat outlook and friendly open ways will be greatly missed.
Please continue your special prayers for: Kim Briggs, Carolyne Gulmy Monti, Jean Franklin, Bob Freudenrich, Janice Roed, Beryl Ferrari and Connie Sinkway.
CCGR PRAYER CHAIN
The prayer chain consists of a small group of people who pray daily for people in our congregation- especially for those who wish to keep their needs and prayers private and confidential. For those more ‘private’ prayer requests, please email requests to:
What’s Happening in the next few weeks:
Get your brain and body fit with Ageless Grace!
9am Wednesday Mornings: Come to Fellowship Hall or via Zoom –
Join Sara Lowry for our weekly Ageless Grace class!
Ageless Grace is a brain health fitness program based on the science of neuroplasticity- the brain’s ability to change form. The 21 tools in Ageless Grace stimulate the 5 function of the brain:
S-Strategic Planning
M-Memory and Recall
A- Analytical Thinking
C-Creativity and Imagination
K- Kinesthetic Learning
At the same time, Ageless Grace engages the systems of the body: the circulatory system, respiratory system, lymphatic system, digestive system and endocrine system.
Ageless Grace is practiced to music and seated in a chair to allow arms and legs to move at the same time and challenge the brain to create new pathways doing so.
Get your brain fit! It’s never too early to learn or too late to start!
We are so lucky to have Sara teaching this very important program – so needed as some of us are home and isolated more. Each week every church member receives an invitation to join this great program. Give it a try!
Vision Planning Update! We want to hear from you!
.
Members of the Vision Planning Committee thank the choir and the rest of the Music Ministry for sharing their ideas about the church and our community through Zoom on February 7th.
Over the next few weeks, the team will be inviting the Church School parents and members of the Prayer Chain to share their ideas. After that the team will be setting up Zoom conferences with individuals as well as those involved with some of our other church groups. We hope that when you are contacted, you will be able to find the time to take part. After all, it is the Community Church or, Your Church. Now more than ever, your input will be helpful in shaping the future!
Souperbowl Results:
CCGR Youth thank you for your contributions to the Souperbowl Drive. The Chiefs collected 58 cans of soup and the Buccaneers collected 41 cans.
Total financial contributions came to an amazing $2100.
Thank you all for your generosity! Your support is critical in providing a variety of essential services that help local families and individuals who are struggling to put food on their tables and keep a roof over their heads.
CCGR Book Club
Next CCGR Book Club will be meeting via Zoom on
Friday, February 12th at 7 p.m.
“The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett
Everyone is welcome. Contact Kim Franklin at
CCGR Celebrations – in case you missed it last week…..
Congratulations to Janet and Gary Montroy on the birth of 2 Grandchildren !!
Sally Astrid Schechter was born on January 14th weighing 7 lbs. 14.5 oz.
Mom and Dad: Beth and Jeff Schechter,
and brother Ozzie.
Kaiden Joseph was born on January 29th
weighing 7 lbs. 12 oz
Mom and Dad: Stephanie and Matt
In Janet’s words, “we are so blessed with this Baby Bonanza!!!”
And of course we are all overjoyed for the families as well.
~~ Happy “February” Birthdays ~~
Pam Speck, Feb. 1st
Diane Herrlett, Feb. 6th
Brian Bieszard, Feb. 19th
GLEN ROCK’S RELIGIOUS COMMUNITIES
The Religious Communities of Glen Rock have begun a social media campaign to reach our community with messages of hope, unity and healing.
Each week, the message will come from a different religious community. Their message is being posted at facebook.com/glenrockinterfaith. Please go to their Facebook page and check it out.
Don’t forget to check:
for additional community news and updates.
And finally, please remember to support
Community Church – your church:
set up auto-pay through your bank,
or pay by mail.
Thank you!
God Bless,
~Candy and Donna
by eventblog@dm1n | Feb 5, 2021 | Weekly Update
Dear CCGR Family,
January 31, 2021 Worship Service
Pastor Terry’s sermon title, Get on Board the Peace Train
Scripture: John 14 25-28: ”I have said these things to you while I am still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.
Please take the time to listen to the service If you haven’t already done so. Pastor Terry spoke about the importance of finding peace through the transformation of our day to day existence. Peace (or shalom/salaam) includes reconciliation and justice. Peace in our lives can only be a reality when the world is kind, fair and just- when we look at others as children of God. Pastor Terry encourages us to never stop cease working for peace which includes mutual understanding, self-discipline, perseverance and seeking the will of God.
The words of the sermon combined with the deeply inspirational music, “Glory to God” and “Wisdom Come Softly” sung by Stephanie Beaudoin, helps create the ground for our own personal thinking of how we can work at the labor of peace in our lives and our beloved community.
We are so grateful to have not only Pastor Terry but Janet Montroy and Boyd Lowry each week to help keep us all connected! When you have a minute, take the time to let them know how much you appreciate their work on our behalf.
PRAYING FOR EACH OTHER
“For prayer is nothing else than being on terms of friendship with God” -Teresa of Avila
Please continue to pray for all of our church members and families. This has been a difficult time for almost all of us. Some of us because of loss and grief, some for health issues and some for other types of challenges. Most of us are struggling and are comforted to know others are praying for them.
We particularly mourn the loss of Ruth McWilliams Strickland who passed away on February 1, 2021. A dedicated Community Church member, wife, mother and friend to so many, she created and maintained the church library for many years. Her upbeat outlook and friendly open ways will be greatly missed.
Please continue your special prayers for: Kim Briggs, Caroline Gulmy Monti, Jean Franklin, Bob Freudenrich, Janice Roed, Beryl Ferrari and Connie Sinkway.
CCGR PRAYER CHAIN
The prayer chain consists of a small group of people who pray daily for people in our congregation- especially for those who wish to keep their needs and prayers private and confidential. For those more ‘private’ prayer requests, please email requests to Candy Hall at candy.hallccgr@gmail.com and Donna Nihen at blackvelvet1299@aol.com, and of course, Pastor Terry at pastor@communitychurchgr.com.
What’s Happening in the next few weeks:
Get your brain and body fit with Ageless Grace!
9am Wednesday Mornings: Come to Fellowship Hall or via Zoom –
Join Sara Lowry for our weekly Ageless Grace class!
Ageless Grace is a brain health fitness program based on the science of neuroplasticity- the brain’s ability to change form. The 21 tools in Ageless Grace stimulate the 5 function of the brain:
S-Strategic Planning
M-Memory and Recall
A- Analytical Thinking
C-Creativity and Imagination
K- Kinesthetic Learning
At the same time, Ageless Grace engages the systems of the body: the circulatory system, respiratory system, lymphatic system, digestive system and endocrine system.
Ageless Grace is practiced to music and seated in a chair to allow arms and legs to move at the same time and challenge the brain to create new pathways doing so.
Get your brain fit! It’s never too early to learn or too late to start!
We are so lucky to have Sara teaching this very important program – so needed as some of us are home and isolated more. Each week every church member receives an invitation to join this great program. Give it a try!
Vision Planning Update! We want to hear from you!
.
The Vision Planning Committee has just finished meeting with the Admin and
Consistory teams asking their input. (They were the guinea pigs so we could obtain constructive feedback before we met with you, the rest of our congregation)
Over the next two months we will be setting up Zoom conferences with individuals as well as those involved with various church groups. We hope that when you are contacted, you will be able to find the time to take part. After all, it is the Community Church or, Your Church. Now more than ever, your input will be helpful in shaping the future!
Youth Winter Mission Project
CCGR Youth is once again hosting a ‘Souper Bowl Sunday’ hearty soup drive. – This year it will be contactless.
Two bins will be placed outside the education building designated either Chiefs or Buccaneers. Place your soups/other nonperishables if you wish- in your favorite team’s bin! (The bins will be inside the building when the building is open.)
Financial donations through checks can be made out to the Center for Food Action ( put your team name in the memo portion if you want it included in the contest) Donations to Center for Food Action can also be made directly at the following web address:
Super Bowl Sunday is this SUNDAY!! February 7th
The team that collects the most food/money will be announced before the game.
Please be generous – Your support is critical to provide a variety of essential services that help local families and individuals who are struggling to put food on their tables and keep a roof over their heads.
Let’s see who the congregation is rooting for this year!
CCGR Book Club
Next CCGR Book Club will be meeting via Zoom on
Friday, February 12th at 7 p.m.
“The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett
Everyone is welcome. Contact Kim Franklin at
For other news around town:
CCGR Celebrations
Congratulations to Janet and Gary Montroy on the birth of 2 Grandchildren !!
Sally Astrid Schechter was born on January 14th weighing 7 lbs. 14.5 oz. Mom and Dad: Beth and Jeff Schechter and brother Ozzie.
Kaiden Joseph was born on January 29th weighing 7 lbs. 12 oz Mom and Dad: Stephanie and Matt
In Janet’s words, “we are so blessed with this Baby Bonanza!!!”
And of course we are all overjoyed for the families as well.
~~ Happy “February” Birthdays ~~
Pam Speck, Feb. 1st
Diane Herrlett, Feb. 6th
Brian Bieszard, Feb. 19th
And finally, please remember to support Community Church – your church:
Thank you!
God Bless,
Candy and Donna
by eventblog@dm1n | Jan 18, 2021 | Weekly Update
Dear CCGR Family,
Below are the sermon title/scriptures of both today’s (1/17) and last Sunday’s (1/10) worship services. If you haven’t already done so, take time to listen to both, as each (combined with the deeply inspirational words of the solos so beautifully sung in both services by Melanie Lota and Rusty Obra), serve as deep meaningful messages for us all, especially as we move forward with hope after through what have been turbulent time in the history of our country.
Why Am I Here?” (Scripture Reading by Laura Bird: Psalm 139:106; 13-18
God is present everywhere; his character is part of everyone of his children, and he knows everything about us.
We need to look to God for our significance and purpose in life. He is with us in every situation and in every challenge and trial and is always there to work with us. Consider praying the below prayer of confession shared during worship to remind you of his presence in your life.
“Awesome God, you have made all of creation and each cell of our bodies. You know our thoughts and you know our sins. We desperately try to hide our mistakes, our weaknesses, our embarrassments. But you know it all, and so we come before you now asking for your forgiveness.
Even as you know the limits of our human capabilities, we know the unlimited power of your love. Forgive us, cleanse us, make us whole. Amen.”
“A Time For Everything” (Scripture Reading by John van Keuren: Ecclesiastes 13:1-13)
Timing is important, and we must know that none of us can anticipate God’s timetable, as all of our time is determined by Him. His desire is that we all must be accountable and responsible for the time we have been given. It is a gift! God has a plan for us all, and although at times they seem challenging, He wants us to seek Him for His guidance and wisdom rather than moving ahead without His advice.
He wants us to enjoy our earthly life, but to also realize that through a relationship with Him, all what we have are gifts given to us from HIm.
“Holy God, hear our prayer: for the mending of our hearts, torn apart by our unkindness; for the healing of our souls, wasting away from the despair around us; for the forgiveness we seek for the sin we have allowed to persist; for the reconciliation of the world, whose division condemns us; We pray for the courage to admit our fault, the strength to amend our actions, and the hope that your grace awaits us. Through Christ we pray. Amen”
The Christmas Holidays were difficult for many, especially those who have lost a loved one over the last year, or for those who are experiencing health or other challenges that they are faced with everyday. Please remember those who you know of, who might not even be on the list below.
And.., please continue to pray for our church members, families, and those close to us who have shared a special part of our lives —
Prayer is a way to help comfort others — to express our love and understanding; sometimes it is the only thing we can do.
Our ongoing prayers continue for Anne Allen & Family (including Anne’s daughters, Liz & family and Sara & Boyd Lowry & Family); Ed Archbold; Debbie Azzarone & Family (including Debbie’s daughter, Elizabeth & Kyle Popiolek & Family); Rich Balch & family; Laura Bird-Bennett & Family; Susan Beal; Kim Briggs; Trudy Carhart & Family; Okey Chenoweth & Family; Rich Dethmers; Beryl Ferrari; Jean Franklin; Bob Freudenrich; Hilda Gabriel & Family; Terry Gilligan & Family; Colleen Janssen & Family; Eric Lundquist & Family; Janice Roed; Connie Sinkway and the Sinkway/Emery Family; Doris Van Ostenbridge & Family; Rev. Jerry Wright and Family; Barbara Zucchino & Family; the Ruth Rankin Leaper Family
CCGR PRAYER CHAIN
For those more ‘private’ prayer requests, it gives us comfort knowing our church has a small group ‘CCGR Prayer Chain’. We share prayer needs in confidence on a regular basis those prayers shared with us that you would like to be kept private. If you have a need for prayer that you feel you would like us to share confidentially amongst the small group Prayer Chain, please email requests to Candy Hall at candy.hallccgr@gmail.com and Donna Nihen at blackvelvet1299@aol.com, and of course, Pastor Terry at pastor@communitychurchgr.com
IMPORTANT NOTE: REGARDING WEDNESDAY PRAYER TIME: For now, (especially throughout the upcoming winter months, our sanctuary will not be open for private prayer and reflection on Wednesdays. We will make you aware of any updated details, should we decide to re-open and resume.
Please continue to show your support to CCGR —
During these difficult and unprecedented times, if you are able, please remember supporting Community Church in your time of giving. In addition to mailing contributions, you may access CCGR’s website and donate on-line, as well: https://communitychurchgr.com. ;
Please remember to call the church office if you haven’t received your 2021 contribution envelopes in the mail.
Community Thrift Shop
The Community Thrift Shop is now open — with limited hours — to receive donations of clothes, linens, and shoes, and some bric-a-brac. They are now beginning to receive fall and winter items. They request that you limit clothing to 2 kitchen plastic garbage-size bags (or 4 paper grocery bags), and 2 small boxes for bric-a-brac.
Their current ‘limited’ hours are:
Monday: Drop-off Only (10 a.m. – 2 p.m.).
**It’s better to get there earlier than later; there are limitations as to how much the Thrift Shop can take in at one time. They sometimes have to stop receiving before 2 p.m.
Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday: Open for Sales (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
Wednesday & Friday: Closed
(85 Godwin Avenue, Midland Park — in the lower level behind Kings Shopping Center; 201-652-7661)
*Please remember to mention ‘Community Church‘ (#3), as we will receive a percentage of any of our donated items
~~~~
IMPORTANT UPCOMING CCGR EVENTS
Let us all remember the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King ~~
~~~~
TUESDAY, JANUARY 19TH – 5:30 p.m.
SPECIAL COVID-19 NATIONAL MEMORIAL TRIBUTE
CCGR Congregants are encouraged to place a candle in our windows
this coming Tuesday, January 19th, at 5:30 p.m.
as part of a National Memorial to remember the lives lost to COVID-19.
Church bells will be rung at that time also.
May we all take a moment to remember!
~~~~
~~~~~
The CCGR Youth will once again be hosting a ‘Souper Bowl Sunday’ ‘virtual’ soup drive.
Super Bowl Sunday is February 7th, but start collecting your cans of hearty soup now.
(You might want to take advantage of Shop Rite’s famous ‘Can Can Sale’ & stock up — running for the third, and last week, through next Saturday, 1/22.)
Our collection of soup will be donated to the Center For Food Action.
~Further details will be forthcoming~
~~~~
Wednesdays – 9:00 a.m. – In Fellowship Hall or via Zoom
Dear CCGR Family,
Below are the sermon title/scriptures of both today’s (1/17) and last Sunday’s (1/10) worship services. If you haven’t already done so, take time to listen to both, as each (combined with the deeply inspirational words of the solos so beautifully sung in both services by Melanie Lota and Rusty Obra), serve as deep meaningful messages for us all, especially as we move forward with hope after through what have been turbulent time in the history of our country.
Why Am I Here?” (Scripture Reading by Laura Bird: Psalm 139:106; 13-18
God is present everywhere; his character is part of everyone of his children, and he knows everything about us.
We need to look to God for our significance and purpose in life. He is with us in every situation and in every challenge and trial and is always there to work with us. Consider praying the below prayer of confession shared during worship to remind you of his presence in your life.
“Awesome God, you have made all of creation and each cell of our bodies. You know our thoughts and you know our sins. We desperately try to hide our mistakes, our weaknesses, our embarrassments. But you know it all, and so we come before you now asking for your forgiveness.
Even as you know the limits of our human capabilities, we know the unlimited power of your love. Forgive us, cleanse us, make us whole. Amen.”
“A Time For Everything” (Scripture Reading by John van Keuren: Ecclesiastes 13:1-13)
Timing is important, and we must know that none of us can anticipate God’s timetable, as all of our time is determined by Him. His desire is that we all must be accountable and responsible for the time we have been given. It is a gift! God has a plan for us all, and although at times they seem challenging, He wants us to seek Him for His guidance and wisdom rather than moving ahead without His advice.
He wants us to enjoy our earthly life, but to also realize that through a relationship with Him, all what we have are gifts given to us from HIm.
“Holy God, hear our prayer: for the mending of our hearts, torn apart by our unkindness; for the healing of our souls, wasting away from the despair around us; for the forgiveness we seek for the sin we have allowed to persist; for the reconciliation of the world, whose division condemns us; We pray for the courage to admit our fault, the strength to amend our actions, and the hope that your grace awaits us. Through Christ we pray. Amen”
The Christmas Holidays were difficult for many, especially those who have lost a loved one over the last year, or for those who are experiencing health or other challenges that they are faced with everyday. Please remember those who you know of, who might not even be on the list below.
And.., please continue to pray for our church members, families, and those close to us who have shared a special part of our lives —
Prayer is a way to help comfort others — to express our love and understanding; sometimes it is the only thing we can do.
Our ongoing prayers continue for Anne Allen & Family (including Anne’s daughters, Liz & family and Sara & Boyd Lowry & Family); Ed Archbold; Debbie Azzarone & Family (including Debbie’s daughter, Elizabeth & Kyle Popiolek & Family); Rich Balch & family; Laura Bird-Bennett & Family; Susan Beal; Kim Briggs; Trudy Carhart & Family; Okey Chenoweth & Family; Rich Dethmers; Beryl Ferrari; Jean Franklin; Bob Freudenrich; Hilda Gabriel & Family; Terry Gilligan & Family; Colleen Janssen & Family; Eric Lundquist & Family; Janice Roed; Connie Sinkway and the Sinkway/Emery Family; Doris Van Ostenbridge & Family; Rev. Jerry Wright and Family; Barbara Zucchino & Family; the Ruth Rankin Leaper Family
CCGR PRAYER CHAIN
For those more ‘private’ prayer requests, it gives us comfort knowing our church has a small group ‘CCGR Prayer Chain’. We share prayer needs in confidence on a regular basis those prayers shared with us that you would like to be kept private. If you have a need for prayer that you feel you would like us to share confidentially amongst the small group Prayer Chain, please email requests to Candy Hall at candy.hallccgr@gmail.com and Donna Nihen at blackvelvet1299@aol.com, and of course, Pastor Terry at pastor@communitychurchgr.com
IMPORTANT NOTE: REGARDING WEDNESDAY PRAYER TIME: For now, (especially throughout the upcoming winter months, our sanctuary will not be open for private prayer and reflection on Wednesdays. We will make you aware of any updated details, should we decide to re-open and resume.
Please continue to show your support to CCGR —
During these difficult and unprecedented times, if you are able, please remember supporting Community Church in your time of giving. In addition to mailing contributions, you may access CCGR’s website and donate on-line, as well: https://communitychurchgr.com. ;
Please remember to call the church office if you haven’t received your 2021 contribution envelopes in the mail.
Community Thrift Shop
The Community Thrift Shop is now open — with limited hours — to receive donations of clothes, linens, and shoes, and some bric-a-brac. They are now beginning to receive fall and winter items. They request that you limit clothing to 2 kitchen plastic garbage-size bags (or 4 paper grocery bags), and 2 small boxes for bric-a-brac.
Their current ‘limited’ hours are:
Monday: Drop-off Only (10 a.m. – 2 p.m.).
**It’s better to get there earlier than later; there are limitations as to how much the Thrift Shop can take in at one time. They sometimes have to stop receiving before 2 p.m.
Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday: Open for Sales (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
Wednesday & Friday: Closed
(85 Godwin Avenue, Midland Park — in the lower level behind Kings Shopping Center; 201-652-7661)
*Please remember to mention ‘Community Church‘ (#3), as we will receive a percentage of any of our donated items
~~~~
IMPORTANT UPCOMING CCGR EVENTS
Let us all remember the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King ~~
~~~~
TUESDAY, JANUARY 19TH – 5:30 p.m.
SPECIAL COVID-19 NATIONAL MEMORIAL TRIBUTE
CCGR Congregants are encouraged to place a candle in our windows
this coming Tuesday, January 19th, at 5:30 p.m.
as part of a National Memorial to remember the lives lost to COVID-19.
Church bells will be rung at that time also.
May we all take a moment to remember!
~~~~
~~~~~
The CCGR Youth will once again be hosting a ‘Souper Bowl Sunday’ ‘virtual’ soup drive.
Super Bowl Sunday is February 7th, but start collecting your cans of hearty soup now.
(You might want to take advantage of Shop Rite’s famous ‘Can Can Sale’ & stock up — running for the third, and last week, through next Saturday, 1/22.)
Our collection of soup will be donated to the Center For Food Action.
~Further details will be forthcoming~
~~~~
Wednesdays – 9:00 a.m. – In Fellowship Hall or via Zoom
~~~~
CCGR Book Club
Next CCGR Book Club will be meeting via Zoom on
Friday, February 12th at 7 p.m.
“The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett
Friday Night, Our next book is The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett. We will be meeting at 7:00 on February 12th
~~~~
CCGR Celebrations
~~ Happy “January” Birthday ~~
4 – Trudy Carhart
10 – Helena Van Vliet
13 – Harriet Baldwin
24 – Denise Morris
26 – Terry O’Brien
26 – Terry Gilligan
29 – Stephen Kazimir (Father)
29 – Connie Sinkway
Connie’s ’90th’ Birthday is coming up the end of the month on January 29th.
Know she would love hearing from all her friends and church family with a card or a note,
(and maybe even a photo if you have one on hand).
Let’s try to make this special birthday a ‘very special one’ for our very dear friend, Connie!!
God Bless
~Donna
~~~~
by eventblog@dm1n | Jan 8, 2021 | Uncategorized
Dear CCGR Family,
We are so blessed as a church family to have had such a beautiful Christmas Season throughout Advent — all the way up through New Year’s Sunday.
Thank you to Pastor Terry, Candy Hall, Boyd Lowry, Janet Montroy & our choir members, soloists & musicians, readers, and so many others who quietly contributed to helping to provide us virtually with as ‘close to normal’ as possible Community Church Christmas traditions that have always been so meaningful and special to us all.
We would be remiss if we didn’t acknowledge our appreciation for all that contributed to the many blessings that contributed to a joyous Christmas Season:
We are grateful for:
Pastor Terry’s weekly inspiring messages, and the thought, time, and prayer he invested in each.
We are grateful for:
Janet Montroy’s beautiful music, as well as the many gifted musicians and soloists (Stephanie Beaudoin, Jo Ann Jennings, Bethany Kazimir, Jeanne Jones O’Brien and Caitlin O’Brien and Guest Soloist, Melanie Lota).
We are grateful for:
All the ‘personal’ reflections of Christmas memories past, shared by some members of our church family (Stephanie Beaudoin, Nancy Croland, Bethany Kazimir, Chris Montgomery).
We are grateful for:
Boyd Lowry’s gifted technical talents, and the hours he continues to devote to recording all aspects of each service — enabling us to virtually view them weekly from our homes.
We are grateful for:
Ed & Janet Chen (and helpers) for adorning our sanctuary with the beautiful Christmas tree, poinsettias, garland, candelabras, and more.
We are grateful for:
Carl Fry, Keith Stewart, and Boy Scouts (and others from the Property Committee) who continue to be there for us year after year to erect and dismantle our beautiful Nativity on our front lawn.
We are grateful for:
Janet Chen, Doris Van Ostenbridge, & Betty Vella for organizing the Women’s Ministry’s Christmas Plant Sale AND the traditional December Women’s Ministry luncheon (‘Zoom’- style), and to Janet Montroy for providing the music accompaniment and Cheryl Wardrop for organizing a virtual Christmas craft.
We are grateful for:
Joanna Van Vliet for organizing the Youth Wreath Sale, and delivering them to homes (along with Ava Montgomery and other helpers).
We are grateful for:
Candy Hall, Boyd Lowry, and Janet Montroy for organizing, directing, and producing the ‘award-winning’ Children’s Christmas Eve ‘Good News Nativity’. And.., to the amazing, talented performers from our church family — Stephanie & Owen Beaudoin, Charlotte Gomez, Claire Jones, the Kazimir Family (Bethany, Stephen, Jovie, & Stephen), Alison Montgomery, and the Van Vliet Family (Joanna, Noah, Helena, Reggie, Amelia, & Mason).
We are grateful for:
Janet Montroy — and the beautiful music provided us in our ‘Lessons and Carols’ Candlelight Service, including our CCGR talented Bell Ringers, and Guest Cellist, Lanny Paykin. And, to our Christmas Eve Readers — thank you to Bruce Beal and Cheryl Wardrop.
We are grateful for:
Gary & Janet Montroy for organizing and providing — along with the church — the ‘Surprise Bagels (& Cream Cheese) Delivery’ last Saturday, for our virtual traditional January 3rd Bagel Sunday Worship. And, to our team of bagel baggers, and delivery helpers to homes within the surrounding geographic area of the church — we couldn’t have done it without your help: Jeanne & Terry O’Brien who helped the Montroy’s pack, and deliverers: Robin Emery, Candy Hall, Lynn Meyers, Jennette, Ava, & Alison Montgomery, Janet Montroy, Bob & Donna Nihen, Gail Sternitzke, & Cheryl Wardrop.
AND ..
We are grateful for:
Boyd Lowry and the amazing job he did in providing us with the very special Bagel Sunday Surprise Holiday Greeting video – starring several members of our church family.
If you haven’t had a chance to see this past Sunday’s service — which includes the Greetings — you can view via clicking on https://youtu.be/lQFmokSCFlo It can also be viewed via our website www.communitychurchgr.com (Worship Page), or on our Facebook Page. (Bagel Sunday’s Sermon: “Restored by the Grace of God”).
And … last but not least …
We are so grateful for:
Our Office Staff — Diane Herrlett & Barbara Zucchino, and our Custodian, Linda Johnson….who have all continued to report to work ‘in person’ throughout the entire pandemic.
We are pleased to say, along with their much-needed input and help, Candy and Donna worked together with them to update our 2021 CCGR Directory (which was mailed to everyone’s home right before Christmas. If you haven’t received your copy, please contact the church office.
Should you see any changes that need to be made, please alert the church office as well so we can keep everything current.
In addition to the directories, you probably have already received your 2021 church contribution envelopes which were mailed home recently. Again, if you haven’t, please call the office to let them know.
The Christmas Holidays were difficult for many, especially those who have lost a loved one over the last year, or for those who are experiencing health or other challenges that they are faced with everyday. Please remember those who you know of, who might not even be on the list below.
And.., please continue to pray for our church members, families, and those close to us who have shared a special part of our lives —
Prayer is a way to help comfort others — to express our love and understanding; sometimes it is the only thing we can do.
Our ongoing prayers continue for Anne Allen & Family (including Anne’s daughters, Liz & family and Sara & Boyd Lowry & Family); Ed Archbold; Debbie Azzarone & Family (including Debbie’s daughter, Elizabeth & Kyle Popiolek & Family); Rich Balch & family; Laura Bird-Bennett & Family; Susan Beal; Kim Briggs; Trudy Carhart & Family; Okey Chenoweth & Family; Rich Dethmers; Beryl Ferrari; Jean Franklin; Bob Freudenrich; Hilda Gabriel & Family; Terry Gilligan & Family; Colleen Janssen & Family; Eric Lundquist & Family; Janice Roed; Connie Sinkway and the Sinkway/Emery Family; Pam Speck; Doris Van Ostenbridge & Family; Rev. Jerry Wright and Family; Barbara Zucchino & Family; the Ruth Rankin Leaper Family
CCGR PRAYER CHAIN
For those more ‘private’ prayer requests, it gives us comfort knowing our church has a small group ‘CCGR Prayer Chain’. We share prayer needs in confidence on a regular basis those prayers shared with us that you would like to be kept private. If you have a need for prayer that you feel you would like us to share confidentially amongst the small group Prayer Chain, please email requests to Candy Hall at candy.hallccgr@gmail.com and Donna Nihen at blackvelvet1299@aol.com, and of course, Pastor Terry at pastor@communitychurchgr.com
IMPORTANT NOTE: REGARDING WEDNESDAY PRAYER TIME: For now, (especially throughout the upcoming winter months, our sanctuary will not be open for private prayer and reflection on Wednesdays. We will make you aware of any updated details, should we decide to re-open and resume.
Please continue to show your support to CCGR —
During these difficult and unprecedented times, if you are able, please remember supporting Community Church in your time of giving. In addition to mailing contributions, you may access CCGR’s website and donate on-line, as well: https://communitychurchgr.com. ;
Please remember to call the church office if you haven’t received your 2021 contribution envelopes in the mail.
Community Thrift Shop
The Community Thrift Shop is now open — with limited hours — to receive donations of clothes, linens, and shoes, and some bric-a-brac. They are now beginning to receive fall and winter items. They request that you limit clothing to 2 kitchen plastic garbage-size bags (or 4 paper grocery bags), and 2 small boxes for bric-a-brac.
Their current ‘limited’ hours are:
Monday: Drop-off Only (10 a.m. – 2 p.m.).
**It’s better to get there earlier than later; there are limitations as to how much the Thrift Shop can take in at one time. They sometimes have to stop receiving before 2 p.m.
Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday: Open for Sales (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
Wednesday & Friday: Closed
(85 Godwin Avenue, Midland Park — in the lower level behind Kings Shopping Center; 201-652-7661)
*Please remember to mention ‘Community Church‘ (#3), as we will receive a percentage of any of our donated items
~~~~
RESUMING Wednesday, January 6th —
Wednesday – 9:00 a.m. – In Fellowship Hall or via Zoom
~~~~
CCGR Book Club
Next CCGR Book Club will be meeting via Zoom on
Friday Night, January 8th @ 7 p.m.
Reading: “American Dirt” by Jeanine Cummins
Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 828 3801 3284
Passcode: 2D0WtT
~~~~
CCGR Celebrations
~~ Happy Birthday ~~
January
4 – Trudy Carhart
10 – Helena Van Vliet
13 – Reggie Van Vliet
17 – Harriet Baldwin
24 – Mason Van Vliet
24 – Denise Morris
26 – Terry Gilligan
26 – Pastor Terry
29 – Connie Sinkway
~~~~
God Bless
~Donna
