“Christ has set us free for freedom. Therefore, stand firm and don’t submit to the bondage of slavery again…You were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only don’t let this freedom be an opportunity to indulge your selfish impulses, but serve each other through love.” (Galatians 5:13-14 CEB)
MCC Hartford July 2026 Newsletter
Each year, July begins with the annual celebration of Independence Day (also known as the 4th of Julyand Freedom Day). While it is true the United States declared its independence as a sovereign nation 250 years ago, the fight for freedom has lasted just as long. “We the People” continues to be an aspirational north star – that we may one day all be included equally. In truth and practicality, independence is not thesame as freedom.
Freedom has been more concept than reality and elusive to many. Often, freedom resides in the hands of those who are powerful, wealthy, and influential. Political freedom is a battle that continues to be fought, even more so now with human/civil rights being rolled back and denied. Juneteenth is a great example that freedom delayed (i.e. in Galveston TX) is freedom denied.
And yet, scripture provides a very different understanding of freedom. We are already set free in spirit and commanded to love others – even within prison walls. The Apostle Paul provides a good example of this—loving his jailers (though he was wrongly imprisoned) as well as fellow prisoners.
As we celebrate, this year’s 4th of July, my prayer is that we fully enjoy the festivities and then re-commit to the work and fight for freedom for us all. The truth is…we have been set free for this very purpose because that is what love does. May our love help to set others free, as well. When freedom arrives for us all, what a celebration that will be! Amen? Amen.
Faithfully, Pastor Aaron
Hope to see you in church or on Zoom -- Sundays at 10am
MCC Hartford July 2026
Summer Theme: “Motown with MoLOVE”
Events
Wednesday – Bible Study is on summer break
Sunday July 5 – Two Celebrations!
1. Sunshine Sunday Brought by our church family in St. Augustine FL. Lay Pastor Jackie is preaching.
2. Birthday Celebration On the first Sunday, we celebrate the birthdays of those born during that month. So, join us in singing ‘Happy Birthday’ after worship service. And, yes, CAKE will be served afterward during fellowship!
Thursday July 16 – Board Meeting starts at 6:30pm (Zoom-only) – all are welcome.
Sunday July 26 – Church Picnic at Clyde and Scott’s house after the worship service. Bring a side dish or dessert if you can (but not necessary)!
Monday July 27 at 2pm EDT – MCC Trans and Nonbinary Global Support Gathering
The last Monday of each month, our pastor hosts this gathering to support our MCC siblings here and around the world -- who identify as trans or nonbinary. If you attend MCC Hartford, identify in this way, and want to join us---please use the same Zoom link as MCC Hartford’s Sunday worship (provided below).
To join MCC Hartford’s Sunday worship service via Zoom at 10am
as well as all church events on Zoom: Simply click on this link: https://zoom.us/j/719817716
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you are in need of pastoral care, a prayer or support please contact the pastor by email at: aaronmillerpastor@gmail.com