Week after week, our congregation pours itself into service. Paul reminds us in Galatians 6:9-10: “Let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time if we do not give up. So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all, and especially for those of the family of faith.” From Loaves and Fishes, the Smile Team, feeding children through our Kids Weekend Meal program, repairing and improving our church building, creating spaces for spiritual conversation in our Sunday school classes, and so much more… we stay busy as a congregation! These acts of love may seem small at the moment, but they are seeds planted in faith, growing in ways we cannot always see. Don’t underestimate the power of what each person is doing within our church! 

We also recognize that service can be exhausting. There are days when the work feels endless, when the needs outweigh our resources, when we wonder if what we’re doing really makes a difference. But Paul’s words out of his letter to the Galatians urge us to keep going, to trust that our labor–our love–will bear fruit in God’s time.

Every lunch packed for a child and meal served means one less night of hunger.

Every repair to our church building means a stronger foundation for worship and welcome now and into the future.

Every discussion prepared by our Sunday school teachers means one more person has a space to ask questions, share doubts, and deepen their faith.

Even when we don’t see the full impact, God is weaving these acts of love into something bigger than we can imagine and understand.

So today, I’m thankful for the story of the Mantua Center Christian Church. To every person who has packed a bag of food, wielded a hammer, set up a classroom, prayed for those struggling, or simply offered a word of encouragement—thank you. Your faithfulness is part of telling God’s story of hope. 

Holy Week is fast approaching, and we invite you to set aside time for these meaningful services as we journey together toward Easter. Each gathering offers a unique opportunity to reflect on Christ’s final days and the depth of his love for us.

Holy Week Services

 – Maundy Thursday – Hilltop Christian Church

 – Good Friday – Noon at Hiram Christian Church

 – Easter Sunrise Service – 6:30am at Derthick’s Farm (bring your own seating!)

– Easter Breakfast – 8:30 MCCC

– Easter Service – 9:30am MCCC

Baptism or Joining the Church

If you have been considering baptism or officially joining the church, I would love to have a conversation with you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out! I would be honored to walk alongside you in your faith journey.

Looking forward to worshiping with you this Sunday as we have Special Music, a story from Cathy Ausperk, and exploration of the passage where Mary anoints Jesus’s feet. 

Blessings and peace,

Pastor Chad