February 2, 2025 Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany (Green) Prayer Focus: The Marginalized and Vulnerable Welcome to worship at Central! In the name of Jesus Christ, welcome to worship at Central where it is our mission to follow Jesus by loving God and loving our neighbors. Our clergy, Rev. Thomas Smith, Rev. Dr. Ann Kovan, and Rev. Meg Jiunnies, are grateful you’ve chosen to make Central a part of your day! If it is your first time worshiping with us, please fill out a Connect Card and bring it to the Welcome Center where you will receive a gift from the church. Once again, welcome!
Music Note The opening and closing voluntaries today are taken from a suite of pieces by Denis Bédard. Born in Quebec City in 1950, Bédard studied music at the Conservatoire de musique de Québec, achieving first class honors in organ, harpsichord, chamber music, counterpoint and fugue. He continued his studies in Paris, Montreal, and Amsterdam. Academic posts include the Conservatoire de musique de Québec and the University of British Columbia. Bédard has held church positions in Quebec City and at Holy Rosary Cathedral in Vancouver. In addition to his many organ works, his compositions include chamber, orchestral, and vocal works. His music is essentially tonal and melodic with attention to formal clarity.
Sermon Note Worship can be a welcome withdrawal from the cares and concerns of everyday life, but we do not worship in a vacuum. Jesus’ words in the synagogue stirred up controversy in the community. We don’t necessarily need to stir up controversy, but how can worship prepare us to engage the world?
Flowers The flowers in the sanctuary are given to the glory of God in loving memory of Donna Flynn on the occasion of her birthday, February 3, by her husband, Bill. “The color red represents love; yellow is for home. She is now home.”