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HORIZONS
November 2019
Hingham Congregational Church, UCC
366 Main Street, Hingham, MA 02043
781-749-1276
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Message from the Senior Pastor
Dear Friends,
A Celebration of Community
It's not often that we get to join together for an evening of wonderful music, laughter, fellowship, and fundraising all at once. Our Off Broadway Gala this past weekend was a huge success in all of those respects and I am so grateful for those who led and helped and participated in any way. Special thanks to Kathi Blair and Libby King, who chaired the event. Thanks also to our auctioneers, singers and musicians, the folks who coordinated various aspects of the evening, those who donated items for auction, those who bid (whether you won or not), those who chose wishing wall items, those who helped set up and clean up, the wonderful volunteers from Notre Dame Academy, and the kids who made the event even better because of their enthusiastic game playing on the last few Sunday mornings.
HCC Off Broadway raised a good amount of money, which will make us a more effective and generous congregation this year, but I am most excited about the way it brought us together.
Community is what it's all about! The Divine Community (in our tradition, God is Creator, Christ, and Spirit, three in one and one on three) and the community of HCC. We are here for each other as we move through life: supporting each other in our suffering and success, growing in faith, learning, creating beauty, welcoming new friends, guiding our children, respecting tradition, challenging assumptions, speaking up for positive change, protecting creation, and serving our neighbors.
Our Stewardship Team is working with the theme of Community to remind us of how important it is to support this amazing congregation and all that we are and do. Let's reach our goal of 100% participation in our stewardship drive for 2020!
Our Strategic Planning Team has begun to meet to discuss ways that we can keep all of this up and make our community even better. You will be hearing from us very soon so we can gather your thoughts and hopes for our future.
Peace,
Pete
Members of the Strategic Planning Team:
Meredith Hollander, Chair
Lynn Mayo, Moderator
Todd Anderson, Immediate Past Moderator
Danielle Buczynski
Phil Edmundson
Tracy Allen
Pete Allen, Senior Pastor
Rev. Dr. Peter Allen
Senior Pastor,
Hingham Congregational Church,
Church Office:
781-749-1276
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Christian Education Nov. 2019
HCC family and friends,
As we transition from one season to the next, it is so good be in the company of church folks new and old. Not only do the last leaves fall to the ground in November but the anticipation of the coming Christ begins to grow inside the church and in the world. I hope to see any and all of you during the remainder of this current church season and if not then definitely during Advent!
Libby and I would like to extend our thanks and appreciation to everyone who offered prayers, support, and gifts to us for this exciting moment of transition in our life. As we enter a new stage in life we will continue to be grateful for the abundance of love that life has brought our way. I am especially grateful for all of the people that supported church school when I was away for our wedding and mini-moon. Thanks again!
On Friday (Nov. 8th) at 6 pm I'll let at 30 minute honoring of veterans at HCC; please inquire directly to me and let me know if you have questions.
With Advent being right around the corner, we ask that families save the date for our annual Giving Twice celebration (Dec. 8th) which will benefit Interfaith Social Services.
On Dec. 8th, teachers will be taking their classes to the Consignment Center where they will, with the help of Middle and High School youth and Consignment Center volunteers, have time to purchase and wrap simple gifts. At the end of worship, parents and guardians will pick up children as they normally would - in their classrooms or in coffee hour (depending on age).
We have also begun looking for children and youth that might be willing to help with the pageant - we need youth who play instruments, a baby Jesus (gender is not of import), and kiddos and youth for many other easy roles. Email me if you are interested in being involved -
pastorsara@hccucc.com.
Finally, as many of you already know, our Christmas tree sale is just around the corner. I pray you will keep your eyes peeled for the online sign up for volunteers as 'staffing' the lot is the most important part of having the tree sale. We hope that no matter your age you will reach out to see about getting involved! Even if standing is difficult, we could set you up a nice spot to greet folks during a weekend shift! The proceeds from this fundraiser go to support our youth who will serve in rural Kentucky next year. If someone in your family (High School youth) is interested in attending, do let us know!
Service Trip Details:
● For our 2020 service trip this year, we will be serving with COAP in rural Harlan, kentucky. https://coapinc.org
● The dates will be July 11-19 and the work will involve home repair and or constructing new homes in support of families in need.
● We ask that anyone wanting to go on the trip make a $100 deposit in order to save their spot. Checks can be made out to HCC with 2020 service trip in the memo line.
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The trip is open to any high school student or young adult (friends of HCCers included). Please reach out to any of the leaders
(Sara, Pete and Tracy Allen, Greg Stupin) to let us know you (or your youth) are interested and/or if you have questions.
Peace of Christ,
Sara
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FROM THE MODERATOR
As we enter November, Thanksgiving gives us a gentle nudge to ponder all the things for which we are thankful. I am thankful to be part of the vibrant community of HCC. The sincere goal of supporting each other and simultaneous effort to help each other to grow makes HCC a special place. What is hard to fathom is that one person's need for support might be just what someone else needs to grow. This simple, yet complex dynamic exists because of our faith and love for one another.
As we move forward together in faith, we can take on new challenges. Jim Antal inspired many of us to join the conversation about climate change and consider our role as a church. His call to action presents a new opportunity for us to support each other, as we learn more about how we can make a difference in our community. As we enter the season of Thanksgiving, let us be reminded of the many people, things and our very mother earth we so often take for granted, take pause, and be thankful.
-Lynn Mayo
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Discussion Series
Sunday November 10th join Winston Janusz after the service for the first of three sessions on the topic of climate change.
(Inspired by Jim Antal's visit in the meeting room from 11:30 an to 12:15 on Sundays November 10, 17, 24.) During this session we will discuss finding hope in the midst of the climate crisis. How do we face the reality of the grim situation we are in? How can we cope with feelings of despair and that overwhelm? Join us as we seek hope for a sustainable future together.
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JUNIOR CHOIR NOTES
In October our little (but powerful) Jr. Choir quartet led the congregation in singing a Broadway favorite, "Getting To Know You," from "The King and I," previewing the - then - up and coming HCC Off-Broadway Fundraiser. Thanks to Jacob & Louisa R., Jessica S., and Lily W. for that!!
Now we are eager to make music again on November 17, the Sunday that Gladys Thomas is with us. We will sing two songs - a Creole/Haitian song especially for Gladys, as well as a Jr. Choir, "oldie but goodie," "Come Bless the Lord."
We will rehearse this coming Sunday, Nov. 10, after church. If you have not be able to join us for a while, please try to do so this month!
Contact Mr. B. or Mrs. England for more information.
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The next Men's Group Meeting will be held on
Tuesday, 11/12 at the Meadows Clubhouse
-6:30 meet for social time
-7:00 Dinner
-8:00 Talk facilitated by Bryce Blair: details below
A
t the last Town Meeting the town decided to update its Comprehensive Master Plan. The purpose of the Master Plan is to identify needs and priorities of the town as we plan for the next 15-20 years of growth. Bryce was appointed as a member of the 15 member Committee that is overseeing the effort.
Bryce will be helping us learn more about the Master Plan effort and we will be able to contribute our thoughts and opinions about the towns strengths and weaknesses during our discussion.
This is a unique opportunity to get up to speed on what is happening in town and to add your voice. So, if you haven't joined us already, what's holding you up?!? If you are a regular, this is one you don't want to miss.
Suggested donation is $20 to offset drinks and food, but do not let that discourage you from attending.
If you want your name added to our mailing list please let me know via email: hinghamneil@gmail.com, or see me at coffee hour.
Thanks,
Neil Connolly
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OUTREACH UPDATE !
- BUCKS FOR BIRDS TIME! It's November and that means it's time for our annual Bucks for Birds program! Last year, we delivered 237 and we'd love to repeat that number or more! We'll collect $ donations during Sunday services on 11/3, 11/10 and 11/17 or mail or drop off a check to the church office with Bucks for Birds in the memo line. A donation of $18-$20 will buy a turkey for a family in need in our area. We will deliver the turkeys on Saturday morning 11/23 and can use a few volunteers. Email Sue Wells at suegat@aol.com to participate.
- Christmas Giving Tree will return on Sunday, December 1. HCC will once again support neighbors in need this gift-giving season by donating gifts through our Giving Tree program. Gift tags will be available on 12/1 and 12/8 with gifts due back in Hale Hall by 12/15. Watch for more details in This Week and the December Horizons.
- Christmas Food Boxes for Wellspring will be available Sunday, December 1. Before you know it, it will be time to go food shopping for our needy neighbors supported by Wellspring in Hull! This is a great family activity! Here is the plan this year:
- Empty boxes with shopping list and wrapping paper will be available in Hale Hall on December 1 and December 8 (If you have copy paper boxes - please let Pennie know)
- Go shopping, wrap your box and fill it with your food!
- Return boxes to Hale Hall on either Sunday, December 8 or Sunday, December 15
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United State Foundation for the Children of Haiti
is please to announce that
Gladys Thomas, President,
Fondation pour les Enfants d'Haiti,
will be speaking at HCCUCC on
Sat. Nov. 16 at 6 pm and
Sunday Nov. 17 at 10 am.
Ms. Thomas took on the challenges of serving children and families in Haiti in 1981. After receiving a degree in nursing in the United States, she returned to Haiti to marry and raise her family. Little did she know then that forty years later she and the organization she established would have provided a home and family for hundreds of at-risk children, established a modern general hospital in Port-au-Prince, and changed educational opportunities for Haitians in PAP and the southern peninsula.
At present, Haiti is experiencing the worst political, economic, and social unrest in recent history. All schools are closed, famine is increasing, and the government is not functioning. The hospital requires constant electricity, but fuel for the generators is hard to find and increasingly expensive. Demonstrations and desperate people make it dangerous to be on the streets. Employees risk injury and death to get to work. The cost of food for children, patients, and employees is caught in the spiraling inflation. Gates must be secured and protected by armed guards.
Gladys will speak about the challenges of providing safe haven for the children in our care and keeping our hospital open during this crisis. She will also provide an update on the goals of FEH and the changes that are being implemented to accomplish our mission.
Dinner will be served on Saturday and coffee will be served after Sunday worship service. There will be an opportunity to speak with Ms. Thomas at each event.
RSVP would be appreciated by Saturday November 9:
https://form.jotform.com/92976369786988
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The annual Interfaith Community Thanksgiving Service
Sunday November 24 at 7 pm, is sponsored by the Hingham Hull Religious Leaders Association and hosted at Old Ship Meeting House. Representatives of UU, Christian, and Jewish congregations in Hingham and Hull will participate in the service. In these times of political and social rancor and division, this service represents the beauty and power of unity in diversity. A reception will follow, kindly hosted by friends across the street at First Baptist Church. Rev. Sara will preach at this service!
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November News from GUILD Consignment Center
As breezes creep through leafless branches, the Consignment Center readies its racks for
chilly days ahead. We are currently seeking winter apparel for men, women, and children that is clean, in good repair, and fashionable. Cold weather boots, coats, sweaters, and jackets are in demand,
as are toasty scarves, hats, mittens, and gloves.
Wacky Wednesday returns on November 6. Stop in during our monthly pop-up sale and find 50% reductions taken in a selected department. Enjoy the surprise and seize the bargain!
Holiday items will begin to be accepted on Tuesday, November 5. Having extras for Thanksgiving? We have serving pieces, baking dishes, tablecloths, and wine glasses. This is also the time to bring in festive garb, kitchenware, decorations, and stay to browse for unique gifts, boxed cards, concert dress, wrapping and trims, or spruce-tinged candles.
The Consignment Center will be closed on Wednesday and Thursday, November 27-28, to honor Thanksgiving and savor time with our families. Business will resume as usual on November 30 as we open our doors to celebrate Small Business Saturday and join in the spirit of community that abounds among local proprietors. Stop in to visit, to chat, or just to avoid the malls!
Our bounties come from you, and we are thankful. Your continued support of this ministry through your donations of time, maintenance, donations, community presence and patronage provide a rich harvest which we share with gratitude.
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Pizza & Prayer
Do your kids have sports on Sunday mornings? Do you find it challenging to get out of the house in the morning with your children or teenagers? Our next P N P service will be December 1, we will hold our inaugural Pizza and Prayer service! We will start with dinner and fellowship at 5 p.m., then transition to a time of worship, which will include guitar-led songs, prayer, and an interactive sermon. The whole experience will be about 45-50 minutes. We plan to hold Pizza and Prayer on the first Sunday of each month during the school year. Hope to see you there!
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Meditation Monday's -
Dec. 2nd (all 7:30 - 8:15 pm)
Meditation Monday is a time for any seeker to retreat from the
busyness of everyday life. We use a singing bowl, prayer, silence and interfaith readings to tap back into who we are and find the still small voice within ourselves.
Location: 3rd floor Middle School classroom of Hingham Congregational Church, accessible via elevator. Questions directed to
pastorsara@hccucc.com
Everyone is welcome.
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- Doug Fortin, whose mother recently passed away.
- Peter Edson
- Meredith Anderson
- Betty and Tom Hulbert
- Don Giessow, David's brother
- Vic Soldat, Nancie Mooney's brother
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Lynn Wellings, Erin Childs' mother
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Neil Boylan, Cheryl Pinarchick's, father
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Suzy Burba, Winston Janusz, and Bill Ketchum, Members in Discernment
- All those affected by violence in the world; our prayer is for love, justice, and peace.
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HCC CALENDAR
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November 6
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7:15 pm
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Christian Education Meeting
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7:15 pm
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Board of Deacons
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November 7
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9:00 am
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Growing in Faith (G.I.F.T)
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9:45 am
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Sara 'open office hours' at 366 Main St (Church Office)
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7:30 pm
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Choir Rehearsal
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November 8
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6:00 pm
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30 minute prayer service honoring veterans
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November 9
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Reservations for US Foundation for the Children of Haiti due for Dinner on Saturday November 16
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November 10
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10:00 am
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Sunday Worship, Rev Dr. Peter Allen
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11:15 am
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Jr. choir
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11:30 am
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Winston Janusz Climate Change discussion
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11:30 pm
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Teacher get together / training
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Bucks for Birds continues
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November 11
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Veteran's Day - Office Closed
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November 12
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6:30 pm
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Men's Group at Meadows Country Club
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7:00 pm
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Tuesday Night Bible Study
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November 13
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7:00 pm
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Outreach Committee Meeting
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7:30 pm
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Meditation Monday
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November 14
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9:00 am
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Growing in Faith (G.I.F.T)
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11:00 am
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Sara 'open office hours at 366 Main St (Church Office)
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7:30 pm
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Choir Rehearsal
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November 16
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7:00 pm
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US Foundation for the Children of Haiti - Gladys Thomas
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November 17
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10:00 am
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Worship, Jeff Collins, preaching, two Baptisms, Gladys Thomas speaking, Jr. Choir singing,
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11:20 am
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Gladys Thomas will be available during Coffee hour for further discussion about the Children of Haiti
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11:30 am
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Winston Janusz Climate Change and Social Justice discussion
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2:00 pm
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Southeast Area Fellowship - 34 Center St, Fairhaven MA - https://www.macucc.org/eventdetail/12977190
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5:30 pm
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High School Service Trip Meeting
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6:30 pm
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Confirmation Class
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Last Day for Bucks for Birds
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November 18
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8:00 am
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Pine Street Inn Meal Prep
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November 19
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7:00 pm
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Tuesday Night Bible Study
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November 20
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7:30 pm
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Executive Council
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November 21
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9:00 am
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Growing in Faith (G.I.F.T)
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7:30 pm
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Choir Rehearsal
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November 22
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6:00 pm
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Community Game Night
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8:00 pm
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November 24
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10:00 am
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Sunday Worship, Receiving of new members
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11:30 am
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High School youth Service trippers and friends meet in Hale Fellowship Hall to then head to 55 Cottage Street to set up for tree Sale - bring gloves, long pants, sturdy shoes and an electric drill if you have it!
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4:00 pm
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Middle School Youth Group - fun, food and fellowship
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November 27
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7:00 pm
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The annual Interfaith Community Thanksgiving Service
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November 29
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8:00 am
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Unloading of Christmas trees
on Hingham Bathing Beach - many hands make light work!
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Looking ahead...
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Dec 1
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11:00 am
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Giving Tree begins
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Christmas Food Boxes available
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5:00 pm
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Pizza and Prayer
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Dec 4, 11, 18
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7:30 pm
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Advent Evening Services
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Dec 8
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Giving Twice
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11:20 am
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Advent Brunch
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Dec 15
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Community Caroling
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Dec 24
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4:00 pm
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Christmas Eve Service - Children's Pageant
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7:00 pm
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Christmas Eve Service
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11:00 pm
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Christmas Eve Services
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Please contact the church office if you have any questions
changes to the above
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Wishing a happy November birthday to our HCC family:
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1
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Kate Stupin
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13
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Ryan Trinchet
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24
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Julia Sebestyen
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2
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Katherine Milton
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14
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Erin Anderson
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Diane Thureson
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3
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Max Beal
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15
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Emily Vermilya
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25
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Alana Snyder
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4
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Carol Schram
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17
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Jade Larsen
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28
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Matt Havens
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Lily Whitner |
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Renee Noordzij |
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Anne Fanton
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Tim Schlosky |
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Millsie Smock |
29 |
Taylor Cifrino |
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Paul Jeffrey
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20 |
Drew Blomberg
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Steve Garland
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8
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Callie Harbert
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Al Carpenter
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30 |
Briggs Rowley
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10
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Scott Anderson
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21
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Mark Minister
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Morgan Childs
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11
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Hudson Gray
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Peter Allen
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| 12 |
Donald Pinto
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23 |
Robert Burns
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IN OUR COMMUNITY
Volunteers needed on Wednesday evenings
Our food pantry is busier than ever, and we're seeing many more households come in for groceries during our Wednesday evening hours. To keep up, we are in need of more energetic, compassionate volunteers to help serve these neighbors in need.
Volunteers are needed every Wednesday from 4:30 - 7:30 pm
. You will be tasked with bagging groceries for our pantry clients, checking clients in at our front desk and helping to re-stock our pantry shelves. Volunteers need to be 18 years of age or older and be able to do some heavy lifting.
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Blessing of the
Animals -
October 6, 2019
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Off Broadway Gala - fall Fundraiser November 2, 2019
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