🕊️ “Called Together, Called Forward” — A Sunday of Gratitude, Vision, and Shared Ministry

Worship Service – November 16, 2025 | Annual Meeting Sunday

Bulletin – 11.16.2025

This Sunday at Holy Covenant United Church of Christ, our worship became a gathering of stories — a shared look back at God’s faithfulness and a hopeful look forward into the year to come. Instead of a sermon, the voices of our ministry leaders shaped the morning. Each brought a snapshot of their team’s work, their joys, and their dreams for what is unfolding among us.

Pastor Christopher Czarnecki opened our time with gratitude for the many hands and hearts shaping our life together. He reflected on the deep spirit of resilience, generosity, and imagination that has guided Holy Covenant through another transformative year — and he reminded us that the Spirit continues to meet us in the work ahead.

Ed Vickery offered the Worship Team report, celebrating a year of music, thoughtful liturgy, and creative collaboration. He highlighted the faithful work of musicians, readers, and volunteers whose gifts shape the worship life that anchors our community each week.

From Christian Education, JoAnn Jellison spoke about the growth of our children’s ministry, the curiosity of our young learners, and the dedication of teachers who help nurture faith in every season.

Kim Buch shared the Creation Justice update, lifting our commitments to environmental care, earth-focused worship practices, and community action. Her message looked toward deeper engagement with sustainability and justice in the coming year.

Representing Communications, Joy Decker reflected on the many ways we tell our story — through digital platforms, weekly news, and the launch of our expanding “HCUCC Everywhere” presence. She celebrated the volunteers who help keep our community connected and informed.

On behalf of Mission & Justice, Suzanne Lamorey shared about ongoing partnerships, outreach efforts, and service projects. Her update reminded us that our call to love neighbor extends far beyond our sanctuary walls.

From Buildings & Grounds, Dave Shimberg provided a concise overview of the caretaking work happening behind the scenes — projects completed, needs being assessed, and long-range stewardship of our physical space.

Gregg Walker then presented the Endowment Team report, celebrating the continued growth of our endowment and the meaningful ministry it supports. He emphasized responsible stewardship, transparency, and the blessings that generous giving makes possible.

As the service concluded, Pastor Chris invited the congregation to remain for our Annual Meeting — a time to receive the full Annual Report, hear additional updates, and vote on important matters for the life of the church.

📖🙏 Order of Worship Highlights:

• Prelude: “Bless the Lord, O My Soul” – Carey Franklin, piano
• Hymns: “Come, Christians, Join to Sing” | “We Love Your Realm, O God”
• Modern Lesson: Deborah Winston – “May our shared work be rooted in love.”
• Ministry Reports: Worship | Christian Education | Creation Justice | Communications | Missions & Justice | Buildings & Grounds | Endowment
• Pastor’s Greeting & Reflections: Rev. Christopher Czarnecki
• Postlude: “All Creatures of Our God and King” – J. Vogt

🕊️ “We listen. We give thanks. We step forward together.”

“Gratitude is the root of every new beginning.” — Annual Meeting Sunday