Dear family and friends of Christ Church,

Yesterday afternoon the call came on my cell phone. One of our local community groups was in a bind. The weather was not cooperating with an outdoor event they had spent months planning. Could we help? Jenny and I were trying to squeeze in a final family day before the kids go back to school, so I called up one of our leaders. The group was quickly moved to our space, and I returned my focus to our family.

An hour or so later, my phone rang again. The moment I saw who was calling, my mind connected the dots. Another group was already scheduled to be in our space that day. In my hurry to be helpful, I had double-booked.

You might be surprised to learn how common it is for our space to accommodate multiple organizations and events, in addition to our ministries and programs. Then again, if you have spent any time in the beautiful place we are blessed to call home, you might not be so surprised.

62 Main Street and the many dwellings that we steward are the brick-and-mortar nerve center of our community life; a visible sign to others of the vitality and faithfulness present in this exceptional parish. I am so proud of the ways we use the gift of this space to make mission possible, for us and for others who share our vision and values.

Both groups pivoted with grace yesterday. When checking in today, I heard about some of the conversations and connections that were shared between members of each organization. While I am sorry for the unintended mix-up, I am heartened that these two partners had the chance to encounter and learn more about the other. In a time where so many can feel cut off and siloed, I am delighted that such bridge-building would take place under our roof.

My continued vision and prayer for Christ Church, as we turn our attention to the increased energy of the fall season, is for such connecting to increase in frequency and potency. I hope that part of reason you choose to participate in the life of this community is so that you too might have this kind of unexpected, holy encounter. Thank you to every member of this community whose support of our parish, with God’s help, makes this and more a reality. 

See you in church! Blessings and peace,

Chris

The Rev. Chris Streeter, Rector

Join the Junior Choir!

Children in grades 1 - 7 are invited to join the Junior Choir under the direction of Debbie Mello. The group rehearses weekly on Sundays, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. in Lower Holley Hall while parents enjoy coffee hour or run errands nearby.

The Junior Choir sings every other week and also on high holy days and special services. Rehearsals begin on Sunday, September 20th. We have a great group of returning choristers and would love to have your child join us! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Debbie Mello, dmello435@gmail.com.

Got a child in preschool - sixth grade? Sign them up for Sunday School! Registration will take place on Sunday, September 13th; classes will start on Sunday, September 20th. Got questions? Contact Jenny Streeter, sundayschool@christchurchnewton.org.

Sunday School & Nursery Helpers Needed

The Sunday School is growing, and we are looking for more volunteers! We have a fantastic group of kids filled with faith, joy and creativity. You don't have to be a Bible scholar or professional educator to be a great Sunday School teacher - all you need is a love for children and God! Teachers are provided with weekly lessons, resources, and a co-teacher. We would prefer a commitment of at least twice a month. Contact Jenny Streeter, sundayschool@christchurchnewton.org to volunteer.

Sunday School Resumes

We will begin our regular Sunday School morning schedule on September 20th. Children and parents will gather at 9:30 a.m. in the large Sunday School room. Parents are welcome and encouraged to have coffee and mingle with teachers and other parents until worship begins at 10:00 a.m. Our sessions begin in the large room where children participate in cooperative games, art, music, scripture reading, Roses & Thorn Prayers, scripture readings, short video and introduction to the lesson. The students then move into their individual classrooms to dive deeper into the lesson with age-appropriate activities, crafts and discussion. Children are brought to the sanctuary to join their family in time for communion.

Youth Group

Students in middle school and high school are invited to participate in various service projects throughout the year. Contact the Reverend Randy Parks, 862-266-0513, or randolph.parks@atlantichealth.org with questions.

Monthly Church Breakfast Returns

Thanks to our stellar crew of volunteer chefs, the popular Parish Breakfast returns on Sunday, September 13th, 8:45 - 9:30 a.m. This is a perfect opportunity to bring a friend and introduce them to Christ Church!

Help Us Support Our College Kids!

The college year has started and it's time to show our students some love! If your child or grandchild is enrolled in college, Christ Church would like to send them a care package. If you have the time and resources, please contribute an item from the above list and bring it to the church, September 27th - October 18th. Monetary contributions are welcome, too!

If your child or grandchild is enrolled in college, here is what we need from you:

• First and last name
• Educational Institution
• Mailing Address

Please email this information to the parish office, office@christchurchnewton.org, by Sunday, October 11th. All items will be packaged immediately following the 10:00 a.m. service on Sunday, October 18th. Got questions? Contact Randy Parks, randolph.parks@atlantichealth.org. Thank you for supporting our college students!

Ministry Fair is Coming!

Christ Church needs you! Stop by the Christ Church Ministry Fair, Sunday, September 27th, and check out the ways in which you can help us be Christ's presence in our community. We are seeking volunteers to serve as Altar Guild members, Ushers, Lectors, Choristers, Sunday School teachers, Breakfast Crew volunteers, Coffee Hour hosts, Sunday Brunch in a Baggers, Christ Church in Stitches crafters, Christ Church Women members, and more. Can't make it on September 27th? Contact the church office, office@christchurchnewton.org, to volunteer.

New Beginnings Community Breakfast

On Thursdays, 7:00 - 8:30 a.m., a crew of volunteers serve a hot breakfast to approximately 40 of our neighbors in need. Our guests are also invited to learn about community resources to assist in their recovery, growth, or progress towards self-sufficiency. Want to help? Sign up to assist with serving our guests, set up, or clean up by calling the church office, 973-383-2245.

Line Dancing Fundraiser

Our own Gail Orcheski is organizing a line dancing event to raise funds for ovarian cancer awareness, research, and patient support programs, Saturday, September 12th, 2:00 - 5:00 p.m., at the Byram Volunteer Fire Department, 225 Route 206.

• Beginner line dancing lessons
• Open Dance Floor
• Fun for all Skill Levels

Admission is $25 per person; includes snacks and beverages. Proceeds benefit the Carol Rotella Foundation.