(we are grateful to Joyce Beales who is now in her 8th year of writing ministry recaps! Follow our facebook page to see pictures!)
January
Well folks, January has come and gone like a whirlwind, and ‘Ol Man Winter’ has arrived with snow, sleet, single-digit temperatures—‘the whole nine yards!’ I’m beginning to sound like my elderly father years ago—he used to say. . . “the older I get, the faster time seems to move!” . . .teach us to number our days to gain a heart of wisdom. . . I found myself considering this, early one morning over a cup of coffee. What does that look like in my life? Am I living intentionally—using my moments wisely [because moments, like nickels, soon accumulate . . . into days, weeks, months. . .years.]. It’s a fair question, and one I need to ask frequently. What better time than a brand new year to reflect on whether my choices reveal priorities of lasting value and the hope I have in Jesus Christ? Want to reflect along with me?
As we consider the choices we’ve made—and those still before us—January offered meaningful moments of growth and connection within our church family. Even in the heart of winter, learning and fellowship flourished. Hans faithfully led Bible study at the Rappahannock Senior Center, while the senior adults at The Culpeper completed a rich and thoughtful journey through the book of Micah. I also had the privilege of walking alongside participants in a small grief support group at The Culpeper, which will conclude in the second week of February. We’re already looking ahead with the hope of launching a Spring support group there, because grief is a journey every one of us faces at some point—and having someone to walk beside you can make all the difference.
The first full week of January our Church family had the joy of serving dinners at the local warming shelter, offering not just warm meals but genuine care and hospitality to our neighbors in need. Each evening was a reminder that simple acts of compassion can bring comfort, dignity, and hope during the coldest nights.
Pastor Dan began a new sermon series last month—What Matters Most—A Life Worth Living. This series explores such timely, relevant themes as: What Really Matters, Purpose Over Pleasure, Community and Belonging, Faith in Suffering—to name only a few. Be sure to visit our website for additional information and discussion guides.
Then, at the end of the month, our sanctuary was transformed into something truly out of this world. Through a partnership with Playdate and Brynmor, we welcomed Cosmic Adventures, a traveling planetarium from Maryland. For a day, this space became a gateway to the stars as several hundred children—and adults—were captivated by the movement of the skies, the wonders of space, and the impact of light pollution. Curiosity was sparked, imaginations soared, and awe filled the room in a powerful reminder that faith and wonder often go hand in hand.
Now for a brief look and what’s coming up next month. Grace Savage will be offering several women’s Bible studies—in person and online, there’s a movie night as we partner with Playdate and Brynmor as well as comedian, Andrew Stanly’s debut on our stage February 25. Andrew was selected as a New Face of Comedy at Montreal’s prestigious Just for Laughs Comedy Festival and appeared on Nate Bargatze’s “The Showcase” on Nateland in 2023. Have a great February, stay well and warm!
February
February may be the shortest month of the year, but it never seems to be short on blessings—or surprises! Phil made his usual weather prediction and Valentine’s Day found the stores with more chocolate than we probably needed (though I’m not complaining), we’re reminded that God’s love doesn’t depend on the season or the weather forecast. Whether we see six more weeks of winter or an early spring, the warmth of Christian fellowship keeps shining bright. So, grab a cozy blanket, maybe a cookie or two, and enjoy this month’s news from your church family—we’re excited to share what’s been happening and what the Lord is doing among us!
On February 3rd, six members from local churches, including Pastor Dan, Susanne Dorsey and Chris Rogers, gathered in Washington, D.C. to attend the Global Faith Forum, joining faith leaders and community advocates from across the country/world. They discussed the need to continue to expand religious liberty and respect among faith groups around the world.
CBC was excited to partner with Brynmor and Playdate to host a free family movie night on February 6, 2026, featuring Disney’s Encanto. This special community event invited families to gather for an evening of fun, connection, and inspired storytelling.
Our senior adults enjoyed a joyful and activity-filled month! Highlights included a beautiful marriage Vow Renewal at The Culpeper, where seven incredible couples—celebrated between 31 and 70 years of married bliss and reaffirmed their love in a touching ceremony surrounded by friends and family. The excitement continued with an ongoing Bible Study at Rappahannock Senior Adult Center, diving deep into the book of Acts, while a brand-new study at The Culpeper explored thought-provoking topics in “Questions People Ask.” It’s been a month full of faith, fellowship, and plenty of reasons to celebrate!
CBC’s teen group, Converge, had a winter adventure as they headed to Bryce Resort on February 21st for an afternoon of snow tubing fun! Students raced down the snowy lanes, shared plenty of laughs, and good old fashioned fun in between runs.
One of our newest groups - Beyond - an adult community for individuals with disabilities, gathered at CBC for a warm and welcoming evening filled with dinner, games, and meaningful time with friends on the last Monday of the month. Smiles, laughter, and shared conversations made the evening especially memorable, reflecting the group’s spirit of friendship, encouragement, and belonging.
We had a powerhouse night of laughter as Andrew Stanley took the stage, bringing his sharp wit, infectious energy, and fearless storytelling to a packed crowd for an unforgettable comedy event hosted by CBC. Setting the tone for the evening, his quick-thinking sidekick, John Thornton, kicked things off with a high-impact opening set designed to ignite the room with big laughs and electric momentum. From the first punchline to the final applause, this dynamic duo delivered a night filled with clever humor, unexpected twists, and nonstop entertainment that had the audience talking long after the curtains closed. I give them a 5 Star rating . . . excellent! Watch for Paul Fey to continue our Culpeper Live Concert Series March 26th, and bring your friends!
Well, folks, that about wraps up February — another month checked off our 2026 calendar...already! Next month, we welcome Spring. I’m sooooo glad!