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Wednesday, October 2, 2013
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Thank you - This communication is made possible by your contributions to
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The next eHappenings will be shared on Tuesday, October 15th.
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A Word from Our Acting Conference Minister 
Dear Friends,
It is good to be with you in the spiritual fellowship of the Missouri Mid-South Conference. It is an honor to be invited to serve among neighbors and colleagues in this place that was home to me many years ago and has become home for me again during the last three years. Like many of you, I am saddened by the recent breaking of relationships within our Conference. There is healing to be done, and we will honor that together as we begin to discover new pathways to the future that God intends for us.
As I write this, I am aware that we are approaching World Communion Sunday, the day when most of our congregations will be receiving the Neighbors in Need Offering. We do these things because our fore-parents knew the importance of signs in the season of falling leaves, lest we find ourselves alone and unready for the times of harsh winter cold that will surely come. Not yet. The fall is a time for gathering, harvesting, celebrating, re-uniting and being glad for the companionship of friends.
In that same spirit, I have been thinking about the work that we can do together in this transitional time for all of us. It is no secret that financial challenges and related staff reductions are pushing us into new conceptions of how to be the church, but this is not a time when reactivity will do. It is a time for thoughtful innovation undertaken as a common calling. I pray that this "comma" in our life together will give us some time to talk with one another, to learn again that relationships are the seed bed of effective ministry, and that personal conversation is where relevant innovations come from.
From the earliest days of the Christian Church, the followers of Jesus looked toward a day that had not yet come, but they lived it as a present reality. I am hoping that we can enlist you to gather with glad and generous hearts for building up the mission-based structures of a conference that engages in its work out of the heart of our common faith and experience.
There will be many conversations to come. We are blessed with the leadership of our newly formed vision team under the guidance of Dick Hamm and the strategic ministry of innovation that begins with listening that Jan Aerie is initiating among us. Dale Parson and I will be sharing the search and call work, bringing congregations and pastors into dialogue; and we will also be calling upon you to come together in interest and proximity groups to help us define the roles and functions needed in the work of our common life.
It is a blessing for me to share this ministry with you,
Allen
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St. Louis Association Fall Annual Meeting 
The SLA Fall meeting will be held on Saturday, October 5th at Parkway UCC, 2841 N. Ballas Rd., St. Louis, MO 63131. Registration will begin at 8:30 am. Click on the following items for more info: Registration, Agenda, Churches/Delegates.
All reports for the meeting may be found on our Conference website by clicking here. If you have further questions regarding the meeting, please email the St. Louis Association. We hope to see you at Parkway UCC on 10/5!
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Even if your retirement is 10, 20 or even 30 years away, it's never too early to begin planning for a more secure financial future. The Pension Boards has a number of options that can help you save for retirement.
To learn about these Plans, and to hear other tips that can help you enjoy greater financial security when you do transition to a less active ministry, we invite you to join us on
Wednesday, October 9 at Noon (ET) for 10 Tips to Help You Plan for a More Secure Retirement, a Member Education webinar.*
The webinar will be conducted using WebEx online conferencing technology. To participate, you will need:
- a computer with Internet access**, and
- a telephone (for the audio portion of the presentation).
Following a brief presentation, you will have an opportunity to have your questions answered by Pension Boards staff using WebEx's online chat function.
If you are unable to join us, a recording of the webinar will be available on the Pension Boards website at http://bit.ly/PBRecordings. * The content of this presentation is for information only. You should seek the advice of a tax professional or certified financial planner for your specific situation.
** If you do not have Internet access, you may listen to the presentation by dialing one of the toll-free meeting numbers: 1.866.699.3239 or 1.877.668.4490. When prompted, enter the Meeting Number: 688 657 945, followed by the # sign.
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Pension Boards-UCC | 475 Riverside Drive, Room 1020 | New York | NY | 10115 | 800-642-6543 |
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Festival of Sharing 
The third Saturday of October is the day that people of faith, from many different denominations all over the state, gather at the Missouri State Fairgrounds, in Sedalia. The groups and families bring money that has been raised and "kits" that have been assembled during the year. Volunteers help to sack rice, beans and potatoes for distribution to Missouri agencies. In the afternoon state agencies bring their trucks and trailers to receive the kits, rice, beans and potatoes to distribute to their clients. Kits, assembled for Church World Service, are loaded on a semi truck to continue their journey to other parts of the world.Visit their website to see how you, your church or workplace might contribute. Also take a moment to click on the Donate button and see the many different organizations that need our help, such as The Rainbow Network, Patch, Foods Resource Bank, Bread for the World and more. Start a challenge at your church or office. Be a leader, be the difference, change begins with you! Hungry for God? Be part of YouthFest October 18-19 as we become more informed of the hunger issues faced by communities around the world and serve in ministry together to end poverty and hunger. Early Bird registration ends September 9th! Get details and register online at http://tinyurl.com/YOUFest.
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It's Time for the Conference Middle School Event!
This year's awesome retreat will be November 22 - 23. CMSE is a tool for enhancing Middle School youth ministry in local congregations by helping youth connect with their peers from around the Missouri Mid-South Conference. The retreat will be full of games, discussion groups, hang time, an awesome guest speaker, and all the great camp activities MoVal has to offer. Check in will start at 7 pm on Friday, November 22 and the event will end at approximately 5:00 pm on Saturday, November 23.
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And the next Youth Ministry Convenanted Ministry Team meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 26 at 6:30 pm at Zion UCC in Troy, MO.
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"My Faith, My World, My Voice" Video Contest
Do you know any young adults with a talent for creating inspiring videos? The UCC is inviting individuals ages 18-35 to create a short video - 60 seconds or less, expressing how their faith transforms, connects or touches the world. The contest is a great way opportunity for young adults to share their faith and inspire others. The creator of the video that earns the most votes on YouTube will be awarded $5,000 and national recognition on ucc.org. Additional information about the contest can also be found on the web: http://www.ucc.org/videocontest. The deadline to submit entries is October 31, 2013. Start a project within your church to see which young adult can submit the most creative video and then share them with your Conference office. Show your MMS spirit and love of the UCC!
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Boundary Training with MMSUCC 
Only one boundary training session remains for 2013 with the MMSUCC, which will be held: Thursday, October 10th St. Peter's UCC in Washington, MO 9 am - 4 pm $30 for active clergy/lay persons If you need to fulfill your three year requirement, please click here for a registration form or email Colleen at the Conference office.
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2014 Conference Annual Gathering 
The 2014 Conference Annual Gathering will be held on June 13-15 and while that may seem like many months away, we are already busy planning. The biggest change to share with you is we will not be meeting at Drury University, but instead at the Truman Hotel and Conference Center in Jefferson City. Due to conflicting schedules with the school we had to make this change, but we believe the new venue will be much more conducive for many of our meeting needs. To read about the hotel, click here to visit their website. We are negotiating less expensive room rates for all attendees, so please keep that in mind when you are looking at the regular room rates on their site. Returning to a hotel will be a fresh change pace, and the location is very centrally located for our entire Conference. Rev. Geoffrey A. Black, United Church of Christ General Minister and President, will be with us for the weekend as guest speaker and honored attendee. We are extremely excited to have him visit Missouri next June and bring his spiritual message to us. If you have an interest in helping plan the 2014 CAG, you may contact Dale Parson at 816-257-9826 or dale@mmsucc.org. Please place the dates of June 13-15, 2014 on your calendars now for this important gathering of the Missouri Mid-South Conference. As more plans are made we will definitely share them with you!
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Miraculous Times 
Who is to say that miracles can't or don't happen - maybe even every day right under our noses?
What miracles has Christ wrought here in the midst of our Missouri Mid-South conference?
Our Church's Wider Mission (OCWM) offering is a miracle in itself. Take for instance the miracles the offering recently enabled:
- Rev. Loletta Barrett, our missionary in Namibia, to created a gardening project involving the abandoned and destitute children of her church in Kalkfeld, Namibia.
- Timber Time, Shannondale's after-school program restarted this fall, after several years' hiatus, with eight children.
- Mo-Val Conference Center expanded its programs, offering times and space to other denominations and school groups.
You have contributed to making these miracles happen. And the possibilities are endless! A new, descriptive phrase for OCWM that a creative thinker coined embraces our giving:
Our Church Works Miracles
OCWM - creating miracles every day.
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Eden Seminary invites you to join Chris Nkemba Ndjungu (Eden second level Master of Divinity student from the Democratic Republic of the Congo) and the entire seminary family in learning about and advocating for the Congo during the internationally observed Congo Week. Come to the campus on Tuesday, Oct 15 at 11:00 am to view a video in the chapel, and engage in a lunch discussion about the Congo. Even if you can't come on Tuesday, be sure to commit to and promote turning off cell phones on Wednesday, October 16, in recognition of the problems mining coltan has caused in the DRC. The international "Don't Be a Cell Out" event calls for us to turn off our cell phones at noon for two hours, leaving a message in our voice mail stating why.
Congo Week is an opportunity to raise awareness about the devastating situation in the Congo and mobilize support on behalf of the people of the Congo. Plan your event-or an event every day of Congo Week-to learn about, reflect in worship, and together make a real difference for people of the Congo. Find facts, talking points, worship resources and reading lists here: http://globalministries.org/africa/congo-week.html
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is the most mineral-rich country in the world; yet, 80% of the population survives on $.30 a day and 75% of the population is undernourished according to the UN. Further, there are an estimated 1.3 million displaced Congolese, and estimated 1.1 million are living with HIV/AIDS, and close to two-thirds of the population cannot afford conventional health care. The Congolese live in these dire conditions because DRC is entangled in war over a natural resource, coltan, which has resulted in the death of over 5.4 million to date. It is a battle for coltan, diamonds, cassiterite and gold, destined for sale in London, New York and Paris - the metals that make our technological society vibrate and ring and bling. In addition to high death rates, the war has led to the use of child soldiers, child slavery in mines, a rise in HIV/AIDS, the mass displacement of peoples, and the widespread use of rape as a weapon of war. To read more about Congo Week on a national scale, check out their website.
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From the Heritage Files
The Heritage Committee is very happy to announce that Dr. John Bracke has agreed to write a history of the Missouri-Mid South Conference. As we mark our 50th anniversary it is important to gather and document the life of our Conference. If you have information about the Conference that you think should be included in such a record, please send it to John Bracke, 6911 Stanwood Dr., Columbia, MO 65203 or jmbracke@yahoo.com.
Bill Schwab, Chair
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International Partners in Mission
Please click here to read about several upcoming events and opportunities in St. Louis with the IPM. Eric Moeller, a member in discernment with the Eastern Association, has been working with this group since June and is now the St. Louis Outreach Community Coordinator. Eric is available to visit your church and bring IPM's message to your congregation and also share his experience of visiting El Savaldor.
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Interfaith Pilgrimage
When the going gets tough, people of faith PRAY. On October 5, we will pray with our whole selves as we make Pilgrimage along Grand Avenue, the cultural heart of St. Louis. Join the interfaith pilgrimage for comprehensive immigration reform "Walking with Immigrant Sisters and Brothers." We'll begin at 10 am at St. Cecelia Catholic Church and finish by 2:00 at St. Alphonsus "Rock" Catholic Church. You can walk the whole distance or pick a portion of the route to follow. Click here to see the event flyer.
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2013 MMSUCC Directories Still Available
Our Conference office has several 2013 MMSUCC directories available to anyone who would like one, or two, or even three! Extra copies are great to have on-hand at church, home or to keep in your car. You may stop by our office anytime during normal business hours M-F, or we will snail mail the directory to you at a cost of $2.00 per book to cover our costs. Please email Colleen if you would like a directory mailed to you or you may ask her to set aside some books for you to pick up.
We will begin working on the 2014 directory soon, hoping for distribution in late January or early February. If you have any changes (new email, address, phone, etc) that you would like incorporated in the 2014 directory, be sure to email your Conference office so we have the most current information to share with your colleagues.
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Ordination of Zayna Hart Thompson
The Missouri Mid-South Conference and the Eastern Association invite you to the ordination of Zayna Hart Thompson on October 27, at 4 pm at First Congregational Church UCC in Platteville, WI.
Clergy are invited to gather and robe in red at 3:45 pm.
Please click here to see the formal invitation.
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Looking at and Learning From Our Landscape
The hot air balloon racers flew over our home in St Louis recently, and I was reminded of my own dream-  come-true balloon ride a few years ago. Imagine the view from a balloon aloft. You can literally hang over the basket in mid air and look all around the landscape and sky at God's beautiful creation. Imagine the silence, the breeze, and the sense of floating, supported on the air.
That perspective is what we now have an opportunity to gain as a conference. We are taking time to look all around us from different vantage points. We can ponder where we have been, where God would have us go, and where we are sensing the Spirit's breath. At times we can examine the "ground that is our being;" at times, our foundation and the "ties that bind us;" at times, the history that has brought us to this point, and what will set our hopes aloft in the future.
I have been conducting listening interviews with individuals and groups including some 60 people so far. Trust building and healing have been the most common wishes I have heard: the wish for honest dialogue, open communication and confidence in our God-given path. You will be hearing soon about the date(s) for one or two group listening sessions in your Association. Your voice is important, and everyone's perspective of the landscape is unique. Together, one step, one day, one group and person at a time we are sending our prayers aloft.
Blessings and peace,
Jan Aerie, Minister of Strategic Innovation
Remember, in this stewardship season I am available to bring a message or mission moment about stewardship to your church's worship or committee meeting. (314.918.2601 or email jan@mmsucc.org). I look forward to continuing to listen, learn and imagine with you in growing the life of our conference family.
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Bread for the World Lectures
Parkway UCC and Second Presbyterian Church are sponsoring two lectures by Rev. David Beckmann, President of Bread for the World, on Monday and Tuesday evenings, October 14-15, at 7:00 pm at Second Presbyterian, 4501 Westminister Place (Westminster and Taylor) in the Central West End.
Dealing with world hunger, Monday's lecture is titled "God Is Moving in Our Time" and the Tuesday lecture is titled "Changing the Politics of Hunger." These lectures are free and open to the public. For information call Tom Tupper at 636-236-3313.
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Jazz for the Journey
Jazz for the Journey, a national symposium on jazz as liturgy, will gather pastors, worship leaders, jazz musicians and jazz lovers from around the country to celebrate, share and explore the creative possibilities of jazz - and its power to speak to our existential situation and transform Christian worship.
This three-day event will take place in Cleveland on October 24-26 (just one month away!) and feature leaders in the liturgical jazz movement sharing their perspectives on the music's impact on ministry, including the Rev. Geoffrey A. Black, the Rev. Dr. Ozzie Smith, the Rev. Dr. Henry Simmons, and the Rev. Dr. Dwight Andrews. Our own Rev. Cliff Aerie will also be performing! For more information and to register at www.ucc.org/jazzjourney.
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October St. Louis Ministerium Meeting
The SLA Ministerium is a group for all St. Louis UCC clergy who are licensed, commissioned or ordained and serving in the local church or elsewhere. Whether you are active or retired, you are always welcome at the SLA Ministerium.
Next meeting:
Wednesday, October 9, 10:00 am - 11:30am
Deaconess Foundation
211 North Broadway, Suite 1260, St. Louis, MO 63102
www.deaconess.org
Deaconess Foundation is a faith-based grant making organization devoted to promoting healthy and hope-filled futures for children growing up in the St. Louis region, especially for those growing up in the grip of poverty. Currently Deaconess Foundation grants are focused on building the capacity of nonprofits that serve youth and children.
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 Inner Jazz Event
Join Rev. Cliff Aerie on Sunday, October 13 at Kirkwood UCC for a multi-faith meditation experience and explore the landscape of the soul through the transformative spirit of jazz. This month's guest artists include Willem von Hombracht on bass, Christopher Braig on sax and flute and Baba Mike Nelson on percussion. Inner Jazz is a blending of jazz improvisation, storytelling, and the arts. Take an hour's respite from the fast pace of life to listen and relax your mind, body and soul. Click here to see the event information.
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Neighborhood Houses - 100 Years of New Beginnings 
Neighborhood Houses is celebrating 100 years of strengthening children and families! 100 years of faces, stories, families, and dreams -
100 years of new beginnings. The weekend of November 1st-3rd is the culmination of a year-long celebration, so please join us!
Friday, November 1, 2013
Centennial Forum: Raising Up: New Answers for Preparing Our Future WorkforceModerator: Rev. Dr. David Greenhaw (Eden Seminary). Panelists: Dr. Susan Stepleton (Brown School of Social Work at Washington University), Mr. Rich Patton (Vision for Children at Risk), and Teresa Katubig, CEO, Extra Help Inc.
Time: 7:30 - 9:00 a.m.
Location: Wehrli Chapel in the Samuel D. Press Education Center at Eden Seminary
Free and open to the public
Saturday, November 2, 2013
Centennial Celebration Gala
Time: 6:00 - 11:00 p.m.
Location: The Four Seasons Hotel
Tickets start at $175 per person. Click here to buy tickets now!
Honorary Chairs and Presenting Sponsor: Ward and Carol Klein (members at First Congregational in Clayton)
Gala Chairs: Jim and Sheila Schnurbusch (Jim and Sheila are both long-time volunteers)
Sunday, November 3, 2013
Centennial Closing Worship Service
Time: 3:00 - 4:30 p.m.
Location: Wehrli Chapel in the Samuel D. Press Education Center at Eden Seminary
Open to everyone!
For questions about any of the Centennial Events, please contact Ellen Reed-Fox, Vice President of Development, at ereedfox@neighborhoodhouses.org or 314-383-1733, ext. 15.
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2013 Taste of Home Cooking School Event - Emmaus Homes 
You're invited to the 2013 Taste of Home Cooking School on Saturday, November 9th at First Christian Church in Washington, MO. The doors open at 9:00 am for the Vendor Fair and the Cooking Show begins at 1:00 pm.
Click here to see the flyer for ticket levels/prices and prizes! All proceeds to benefit Emmaus Homes.
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Administrative Assistant - part time, Eden Theological Seminary (10/2/13)
Eden Theological Seminary is seeking a part-time (10-20 hrs) administrative assistant who will report to the Executive Assistant to the President. The seminary is flexible regarding the weekly work schedule. A high level of professionalism, attention to detail, and confidentiality is crucial to this role. Interested applicants may send inquiries to hr@eden.edu.
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Office Manager - full time, St. Paul's UCC, Oakville (10/2/13)
St. Paul's United Church of Christ is seeking a full time Monday-Friday Office Manager. Interpersonal skills: Friendly, reliable, professional image, excellent communication and phone skills, open to transition and change; and a team player. Technical skills: Ability to implement and manage Church Integrated Software (experience in Shelby preferred); Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, Outlook and in calendar/meeting management. Accounting Experience: handling payroll, invoicing, accounts payable/receivable and receipts. We are located on 5508 Telegraph Road in St. Louis (Oakville), MO. The deadline for resumes is Tuesday, October 15. Email resumes to spjsc@stpauloakville.org.
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Director of Christian Education - part time, St. John's UCC, Chesterfield (9/3/13)
This is a part-time 20 hours a week position.The ideal candidate will be responsible for planning, organizing and implementing a comprehensive program of Christian Education for children and youth. This will include directing Children's Ministry through weekly Sunday school and Children's Worship along with special programs, such as VBS, Christmas Program, and other Sunday school events. An energetic and enthusiastic person of strong faith is needed who has experience in working with children in a faith based setting. A college degree is preferred and musical talent is a plus. Resumes only, no calls please. Please submit a job specific cover letter and resume to:
stjohnsucccareers@yahoo.com For a complete job description go to www.stjohnsuccchesterfield.org.
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Contact Us
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Missouri Mid-South Conference United Church of Christ 314-962-8740 or 877-877-5884 Email renee@mmsucc.org to submit information for a future issue. Not all submissions may be used in future eCouriers. |
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