This Sunday (2/12), Pastor Katheryn will finalize a three-week sermon series to explore the Sermon on the Mount. Considered by most theologians to be the best summary of Christ’s teachings, this familiar passage is packed with spiritual practices and instructions to help us build up God’s kingdom on earth. Each week we will discover divine treasures that God longs for us to celebrate and share.

• Week One, Jan 29:  Matthew 5:1-12, Blessings Upon Arrival. Christ begins his sermon by telling people who seemed to be the most poor, broken down souls in the world, that they were blessed. Willingness to believe we are blessed is the first step to entering God’s kingdom on earth.  
• Week Two, Feb. 5: Matthew 5:13-20,  Enhancing Life’s Flavor. Jesus told a group of downtrodden peasants, “You are the light of the world…You are the salt of the earth.” Did they laugh? Did they sit in stunned silence? Or did the words fall on their parched souls like living water bringing them back to life? God’s light grows brighter within us we when we follow the ways of love even as we encounter hate or fear. As salt does to food, our faith can preserve and enhance the gift of life even when it seems like a bitter pill to swallow. 
• Week Three, Feb 12:  Matthew 5:21-37  Faith, Anger, Action.  In this passage, Jesus acknowledges that we will endure frustration, fear, grief, and anger as we travel through this world. But when we are upset, we can choose to respond in ways that enable us to grow in God’s love and grace. 

Lectionary Group – Sunday Morning Bible Study

Do you like getting to the movies a little early so you can watch the previews?
Do you read the book jacket so you get a peek at what’s ahead?

Well, I have a deal for you!  Come join us in the Library on Sunday at 9:15  to explore the readings and see how the Spirit moves in us.  We are meeting from 9:15 – 10:15 ish (to allow choir folks an opportunity to join us – Hi Choir!) For more information, contact Karen Foree or the church office.

Catalyst Classes – Thursday via Zoom 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.

For information or zoom links, please contact the church office.
Thursdays, February 16 – March 30  A seven-week Lenten study of “WORDS TO LIVE BY” taught by Rev. Jim Collier.

Thursdays, April 13 – May 11  A five-week read-and-discuss class on  “Hope: A User’s Manual” by Mary Ann McKibben Dana, taught by Barbara Miller, a retired Church Educator in our denomination. This is a  book about Real Hope, spiritual hope that meets the chaos of today head on.

Thursdays at Noon in the CPC Sanctuary

Dec. 8 – Austin Handbell Ensemble, directed by Bob Avant. Come enjoy the sounds of the holidays with this fabulous handbell ensemble.

Dec. 15 – Noonday Concerts close out the Advent series with Pinnacle Brass, one of the finest brass quintets in Central Texas, playing a selection of holiday tunes.

Parking for concerts: Parking is $10 @ First Baptist’s Garage, or often street (metered) parking on Trinty between 8th & 10th Streets. Or there is 2 hour free parking at the Capitol Visitors’ Parking Garage at 12th & San Jacinto.