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Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord. Lord, hear my voice!
Let your ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications!
If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand?
But there is forgiveness with you, so that you may be revered.
I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I hope;
My soul waits for the Lord more than those who watch for the morning,
More than those who watch for the morning.
Psalm 130, NRSV
Dear Friends and Partners in the Gospel,
How odd it seems to revere God most of all because of the greatness of God's forgiveness! Not for God's wonder working powers, miraculous deeds, infinite wisdom, or power to condemn (so many reasons to hold God in  awe). Another translation of this week's psalm would substitute the word "fear" for reverence, and, though some people don't like to apply that word to God, it may convey more clearly the counter-intuitive point: that so fearsome a power as God has borne the painful cost of showering a deeply troubled world with the blessings of grace. It twists my thoughts and changes me, when I consider this, and am reminded that the core truth of our faith is a power that is expressed through humility, divinity revealed in lowliness, and strength made known in kindness.
We look at the calendar of church activities this season, and we see the flurry of preparations for Holy Week and Easter. It is a reminder to us that the first work of the church is the ministry of celebration of the Holy Acts of God. As God's holy grace inspires us, we are moved to take upon ourselves those works of reconciliation in our world that are rooted and formed in our own awareness of God's care. May our prayers this Lenten season be for a deepening of our core awareness of God's grace, so that the work we undertake and the renewal that we seek, as individuals, as congregations and as Conference together, may become God's work in us, God's ministry to the world.
Blessings upon our preparations in these Lenten days for holy celebrations.
Allen
Allen Fluent, Acting Conference Minister
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Conference Daily Prayers in Lent - A Journey of Faith 
Join us in prayer each day during Lent as close to 12 noon as possible, or at your most favorable time. Click here for the newest meditations and prayers in printable format, or visit our Conference website to view the prayers by week. Please invite others to share in prayer. What better way is there to BE the Missouri Mid-South Conference than to pray together?
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Our Amazing Congregations
Telling the Good News is what we are about as Christians. We also know that everyone loves a story. This new and regular feature of the e-courier will tell Good News stories of our MMS congregations. These remarkable and not-so-remarkable acts of faith will inspire you. We also want to hear and share your stories. Send your amazing congregation's story to Colleen Bender at our Conference office: colleen@mmsucc.org
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God's Mission at Work
Nearly two years ago, Sharon Barnes, a member of Carondelet UCC in south St. Louis, noticed the challenges faced by neighbors who couldn't afford basic household cleaning or personal hygiene items. Sensing a call in ministry,  Sharon and others at church opened a free store, which now serves 65 - 70 neighbors each month. Cleaning and hygiene items have been the staples of the store, but friends have donated other items including shoes, clothing and coats, which have seemed especially helpful this past winter.
Sharon has directed the store's activities every 2nd Saturday of the month. She has been inspired by some of the connections she has made and witnessed through folks who attend. She recalled listening to the story of a regular patron of the store who emigrated from England. This person shared how she met her husband and about the British tradition of tea and biscuits. "It was neat to hear some of her story and she's not the only one (who's shared). It's interesting to hear life stories and good to know that we've been a help to the people who come," Sharon said. "The free store is a work in progress, and I think that God is not done working on us."
If you would like to learn more or try this mission ministry in your church, contact Carondelet UCC carondeletucc@sbcglobal.net
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Health and Wellness - April Tip Sheet
Since 1987, the National Council of Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) encourages communities to focus  on awareness of the disease of alcoholism and alcohol related issues. Often faith communities have been silent about this chronic disease, which is treatable, and not a moral weakness or failure.
This month Deaconess Faith Community Nurse Ministries joins others in raising awareness about alcohol - its proper use and about being a responsible drinker. "Healthy Choices, Healthy Communities" is being celebrated across the country in various faith communities. During this month, faith communities are learning how they can journey with others as they struggle with this chronic disease. The National Council of Alcoholism and Drug Dependence have developed ten tips for dealing issues related to alcohol.
First, don't be afraid to say no when others want to pressure you to what is right for someone who is struggling with the disease. Sometimes the fear of a negative reaction keeps us from speaking out and helping another. At other times, we are pressured into doing something that enables a person to remain in the grips of the disease. Remember to care and care enough to do what is healthy for the person and yourself. Click here to continue the article.
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Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Wright, Jr. Lecture
Jeremiah Wright, a name very well known within the UCC, will be hosting two lectures within our Western Association.  He is Pastor Emeritus of the 6,000 member Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago, IL, where he served 36 years, Dr. Wright combined his studies of African Traditional Religions, African American music, and the African American Religious Tradition with his studies of Judeo-Christian thought to create ministries which addressed the needs of the community. When he retired in 2008, the church had over 50 active ministries with social justice advocacy at the core of its theological perspective. From HIV/AIDS outreach programs and two senior housing complexes, to a federally funded childcare program for low-income families and the church's Kwame Nkrumah Academy to serve students on Chicago's South Side, the congregation put into practice the Gospel. With four earned degrees, Dr. Wright has authored numerous articles for academic journals and has published four books of sermons. He now spends his time preaching, teaching, and leading study tours to Africa, Brazil and the Caribbean. Click here for the event flyer. His two lectures will be held on April 23 at:
11:00 a.m.
Sermon: Who Is My Neighbor?
Saint Paul School of Theology Chapel Service
Wesley Covenant Chapel, 13720 Roe Ave. Leawood, KS 66224
7:00 p.m.
Lecture: Another World Is Possible!
St. James United Methodist Church
5540 Wayne Ave, Kansas City, MO 64110
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Church Building and Loan Fund Electronic Newsletter
Great news - CB&LF just launched their new electronic newsletter that will be emailed monthly to everyone who would like to receive it. 
They transitioned from a paper to an electronic format because without the printing costs, they can communicate with you monthly instead of twice a year. They want you to receive up-to-the-minute information on the great projects and new initiatives from CB&LF.
In this age of "spam" and computer viruses they all must take precautions on emails they send and receive. As much as they'd like to email their newsletter to you, they need your permission to do so.
If you would like to receive up to date news and information from them, would you please sign up to receive CB&LF's monthly electronic newsletter by clicking here and completing the sign up form?: http://www.ucc.org/cblf/god-is-still-building.html
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Eden Theological Seminary's Spring Convocation April 22-23, 2014
80th Annual Brueggemann and Kulenkamp Lectures
Eden's annual Spring Convocation is an opportunity for pastors and laypeople to listen to and interact with  outstanding biblical and theological scholars. We encourage you to attend and reconnect with friends and colleagues while sharing in the community life of Eden Theological Seminary and reflecting on the theme: Power: Its Use and Abuse.
For more information: www.eden.edu/convocation.aspx or call 314.918.2565. To go directly to registration: registration.eden.edu
And during Eden's Convocation our Conference office will host an Open House for everyone visiting the seminary campus - see details below!
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MMSUCC Conference Open House, April 22 - 8:30 am to 5:00 pmIf you are planning to attend Eden Seminary's Convocation, be sure to stop by your MMS Conference office on  Tuesday, April 22 and visit us during our Open House! Our office is conveniently located on the campus of Eden Seminary - lower level of Schultz Hall, 483 E. Lockwood Avenue, Suite 15.
We'll have snacks, soft drinks and plenty of smiles to greet you upon your arrival. It's been 3 years since we moved from the "white house" to our new and ever-so-lovely digs in Schultz Hall, so it's the perfect time to take a quick tour if you've never visited us before. We hope to see many familiar faces and also meet some new friends, too. Several members of our Conference staff - Allen, Jan, Renee, Lorraine and Colleen - will all be here to greet you. So join us for a glass of punch and allow us the opportunity to tell you how much YOU are appreciated as a member of our Missouri Mid-South Conference!!!
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From the Roots
The winter had been long in northern New York and was still hanging on in the early days of April. For months, the only colors in our natural environment were variations on black and white everywhere you looked. So, the church conference in mid- April in Miami was a long-anticipated end of winter respite. As we walked out of the Miami airport  there was an amazing sight for winter eyes: it was green everywhere you looked - the kind of green of spring - lush, brilliant and deep. The grass, trees, and growing plants seemed a celebration. It was literally a feast for color-deprived eyes.
Sometimes we don't realize we have become used to seeing a monochromatic reality, or we may habitually apply color ideas only from a small palette. And sometimes we forget how the grass under our feet has a widespread root system enabling it to change color from brown to green in the early spring rains.
Missouri Mid-South Conference is exploring new ideas and experiments are growing up from our Conference family - from the grassroots! In this new season for the Conference, it is time to note the vast root system we have in all of our churches and its members. Any group or congregation embraces mission and ministry in unique ways. All of these ways are welcome and valid. In this time of interconnecting, the web of inter-relating replaces the hierarchical pyramid of leadership. Collaboration becomes the operating word. Therefore, the Conference's role is to encourage, support and assist in connecting people, ideas and ministries.
In what ways have you noted grassroots movements growing in the Conference?
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Climate Change Panel
A public forum Climate Change Panel will be held at East Central College in Union, MO on Thursday, April 17 , 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
There will be a four person panel presentation and then open to discussion afterward. (It happens to be Maundy  Thursday evening - but those who do not have services that evening, are invited to come). The four panelists: Mr. Larry Lazar - a Climate Reality organizer and active environmental science worker, a local St. Louis businessman.
Dr. Johann Bruhn - Professor Emeritus at Missouri's Center for Agroforestry, and a Climate Reality presenter.
Mr. Chris Laughman - Corporate Facility Manager on Energy Efficiency, Indoor Air Quality, Water Conservation and Corporate Social Responsibility.
Mr. Brian Ettling - St. Louis based, but is a seasonal Park Ranger at Crater Lake Nat'l Park, Oregon for 20 years. Is a Climate Reality Leader.
Submitted by Norma Klemme
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Gospel Mass to be Performed at Eden Seminary
The Eden Seminary choir, The Voices of Eden, will perform Robert Ray's Gospel Mass on Wednesday, April 30 at 10:00 am in Wehrli Chapel. The entire community is invited to attend this special event held during morning chapel.
Composer Dr. Robert Ray is known nationally and internationally. He is the founder of the St. Louis Symphony's IN  UNISON® Chorus, a 120-voice auditioned ensemble that performs a variety of musical styles with a focus on the interpretation, performance, and preservation of the music of African-American and African cultures.
Donita Bauer, Director of Music at Eden, chose this musically uplifting and exciting piece to provide a creative springtime focus for the choir. Donita is "happy to offer students some variety in their studies" especially during this time when students are writing papers and preparing for final exams. Choir member Chance Beeler shared, "I really enjoy this piece of music because it is a different style than anything we've done. I am amazed at the creativity that blended this style of music with the words of the mass."
The Gospel Mass is a contemporary piece which contains the traditional parts of any mass: Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Acclamation, Sanctus, and Agnus Dei. There are also opportunities to feature some of the beautiful solo voices in the Eden choir. The Voices of Eden are having fun rehearsing this inspiring contemporary piece in their weekly practices. Please join us for the April 30 performance!
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Women of the Cloth - "Ministering to Women Called to Minister"
Women of the Cloth was founded by Reverend Dr. Cassandra Gould and Reverend Rebecca Ragland in 2009 as a ministry dedicated to women called by GOD. It's an ecumenical ministry that provides dedicated space for all women called by GOD including ordained and unordainded women, campus ministers, seminarians, chaplains, associates and senior pastors as well as those discerning calls.
We are pleased to announce this year's event as we celebrate five years, WOC5 Conference:
"When Sistahs Help Sistahs: Creating a Covenant of Care"
Our guest Conference Preacher and Teacher is the world renown Reverend Teresa Fry Brown, Ph.D,  Historiographer and Executive Director of Research and Scholarship for the African Methodist Episcopal Church. This year's conference theme is based on Dr. Fry Brown's book "Can A Sistah Get A Little Help?"
This year's event will be held on Thursday, April 24-25, 2014 at Eden Seminary, 475 E. Lockwood Ave, St. Louis, MO 63119.
This conference promises to equip women called by GOD with tools and best practices that enhance the formation of relationships and the development of accountability partners that lead to reciprocal covenants of care, all while providing "safe space" to laugh, cry, learn, acknowledge the need for, seek, accept and offer help.
For more information,please click here for a brochure. You may also contact Rev. Phiwa Langeni at pastor@zionucc1.org.
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Miraculous Winds
April is traditionally thought of as kite flying month - because it can often be windy. Have you considered that the  wind always connotes some change or shift? Imagine your giving creating a breeze, and our collective giving causing these winds of change:
Missionaries Anil and Teresa Henry, visiting our Conference this month, have transformed a hospital and entire region in India through your gifts and that of others.
Volunteers from our churches have been hard at work at Camp MOVal getting the grounds and buildings ready for the busy camping season.
Conference churches are speaking out and signing up to advocate for fair wages, care, and rights for those in poverty in our states.
Your giving has made positive shifts all over our world!
Our Church Works Miracles!
OCWM: creating miracles Every Day.
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LIFE at Eden Event, April 25-26
The church is a learning community! Rethink how your church approaches education - Christian Education in  worship, in class, in coffee hour- it impacts every aspect of our church life- come and rethink how you and your community approach education as a LIFE Long learners. You will leave with new insight and enthusiasm for how YOU can encourage Life Long Learning in your church!
Rev. Dr. John Bracke, Professor Emeritus from Eden Seminary, will engage the historical books (Joshua, Judges, Samuel, Kings) some of the most familiar stories- but difficult to modern ears. Come hear the stories again- and examine the theological themes for the 21st century. NOT to be missed for all with questions of "why is THIS or THAT" in scripture???!!! Scripture comes alive with Dr. Bracke leading the class!!! Event flyer.
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Come, Hear Our Missionaries Tell About God's Work in India! 
Eleven years ago Global Ministries commissioned Drs. Anil and Teresa Henry to become the Medical Director and Administrator of Christian Hospital Mungeli (CHM). The Hospital was then a dilapidated building serving just 30 patients. It is now a 120-bed hospital which provides a broad spectrum of modern medical services to the people of Mungeli, India. Come be inspired by hearing the story of the many advances the Henry's have instituted since arriving in Mungeli.
Sunday April 6 at St John UCC, Manchester at 3 pm.The church is at 332 Old Sulphur Springs Road 63021. Refreshments will be served. 
Other times are being scheduled across the Conference. Watch for further info in upcoming eCourier's, or if you wish to request a visit to your church contact Jan Aerie jan@mmsucc.org or Dale Parson dale@mmsucc.org.
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Christian Native Craft Workshop at Shannondale
Now in its 40th year, this exciting event offer hands-on folk art, craft experiences, and demonstrations in a family-  oriented setting. The workshop has given hundreds of persons, young and old, a chance to learn talents in an Ozark forest setting and take home beautifully handcrafted items. Classes are held at Shannondale Community Center's Timber Lodge, our very own UCC haven. The workshop will be held on July 27 - August 1, 2014 - be sure to register soon.
For more information, contact Phil and Judy Jones at 618-493-6371 or email cncwdirector@gmail.com. Visit the craft website for even more info! Brochure 1, Brochure 2, Registration form.
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Installation of Rev. Meredith Jackson
All are invited to the installation of Rev. Meredith Jackson as Associate Minister of Union Avenue Christian Church (DOC). Meredith is a United Church of Christ minister serving a Disciples of Christ congregation. Her installation service will be held on Sunday, April 27, 10:45am at Union Avenue Christian Church, 733 Union Blvd, 63108.
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St. Louis Association Ministerium Update
Epiphany United Church of Christ is embarking on another upgrade project this spring - replacing restrooms and  therefore they and Joint Neighborhood Ministry are unable to host Ministerium on April 9. However, as the Spirit would have it, we were trying to figure out how to provide a space and time for all of us to hear from our partner in ministry - Dr. Teresa Henry from Global Ministries - while she is here on April 9!
And so as a result, we cordially invite you to join us at the SEGA (Disciples of Christ) Metro Brown Bag Clergy meeting on Wednesday, April 9, at Union Avenue Christian Church, 733 Union Blvd., St. Louis 63108 (located next to Pilgrim UCC). As the name of the group implies, everyone brings their lunch and gathers in the fellowship hall at noon. At about 12:15, introductions and announcements are made. Then, from 12:30 to 1:30 is the program. No reservation is needed. Please come and join us for this interesting and inspiring program. We look forward to seeing you there! Consider reaching out to bring a colleague with you!
Upcoming SLA Ministerium gatherings:
May 14 (evening) - Neighborhood Houses at Caroline Mission (host: Darlene Sowell)
June 11 - St John's Community Services (host: Johnniest Henry)
July 9 - Isaiah 58 (host: Brenda Booth)
August 13 - Doorways (host: Justine Craig-Meyer)
Kevin Cameron
kevin@parkwayucc.org ; 314-872-9330
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Free Canon Copier
Free Canon NP6221 Black/White Copying Machine. Includes stand and some supplies. If interested please contact St. Peter's UCC, New Haven, MO (573) 237-2182 or (636) 667-2541.
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Dear Colleague,
Grace to you and peace in this New Year. The United Church of Christ Office Support Staff Network (UCCOSSN) is a national organization whose mission is to strengthen the ministries of those who work "behind the scenes" supporting the ministries of Conferences and the national setting of the Church.
Each year, the UCCOSSN members gather together for professional development and networking. This year's annual meeting will be held April 24-26 in Charlotte, North Carolina with the theme, "The Power To Be You." We encourage you to attend or send a representative from your support or administrative staff to the annual meeting. The knowledge shared in these three days will strengthen you and your staff's skills, in order to better support the ministries. Any UCC staffer working for a church, association or Conference office is invited to attend!
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call Linda Carter at 336-222-8771 or at lindacarter@soc-ucc.org. We wish you good health and abundant blessings in this New Year.
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Neighborhood Houses - 4th Annual Trivia Night
Round up your smartest friends and join us for a night of fun to support Neighborhood Houses! Raffles, door prizes, games, prizes for the top 3 teams, and more! 
Saturday, May 3, 2014
Time: Doors open at 6 p.m. | Trivia starts at 7 p.m.
Location: Sunset Hills Community Center | 3915 S. Lindbergh Boulevard | St. Louis, MO 63127
VIP Table of 10 - $300; Table of 10 - $250; Sponsor a Round - $150
To Register:
· Online: https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07e8xof6oz68894883&oseq=&c=&ch=
· By Mail: Fill out this flyer and send credit card information or check made payable to Neighborhood Houses to 5621 Delmar Blvd., Suite 104 | St. Louis, MO 63112.
· By phone: Call Kathy McCadden at 314.383.1733 ext. 17
If you'd like to volunteer for this event, please contact Kathy McCadden at the above phone number.
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National Environmental Summit for High School Students
The National Environmental Summit for High School Students- July 8-12, 2014- is open to all students ages 14-17 by the time of the Summit. Students come to the summit from across the country with many different interests but  with one common passion, the environment. Students work with college professors according to the discipline of their interest, taking advantage of the diverse offerings of this small liberal arts campus such as writing, theater, history, botany, and zoology. The summit aims to match student talent, in a discipline of their interest, with avenues to environmental stewardship and sustainability. Students interested in writing may blog or write poetry about environmental issues or environmental surroundings, while students interested in botany may learn about the spread of invasive species and even how to cook them!
Students get the chance to work in real labs, recording studios, production stages, and all with college professors. The cost of the 4 day, residential summit is $490. There is a $90 discount for students who apply before April 1st. Per the organizer, financial aid available.
Please see flyer for contact details, and visit the website to find out more information.
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Quotes for Your Week - Kindness
Wherever there is a human being, there is an opportunity for a kindness. 
- Seneca
The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.
- Oscar Wilde
You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late.
- Ralph Waldo Emerson
People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did. But people will never forget how you made them feel.
- Maya Angelou
Be kind whenever possible; and it is always possible.
- Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama
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Employment postings will run for one month, unless otherwise specified.
St. Anthony's Medical Hospital, Pastoral Care, 3/26/2014
Reports to the Vice President of Human Resources, with accountability to the co-lead chaplains and team, assists with faith issues in the healing process. Provides crisis intervention, visits with patients, families making spiritual assessments to add to the plan of care. Please click here to see entire job description and how to apply.
Pilgrim UCC, Coordinator of Christian Education & Outreach, Part-Time, 3/12/2014
Pilgrim Congregational UCC, a multicultural, multiracial, and O & A church in the city of St. Louis is seeking a Coordinator of Christian Education and Wednesday Outreach Ministries.
Christian Education responsibilities include planning, coordinating, and teaching faith-based educational opportunities with children, youth, and adults on Sunday mornings; supervising the paid Nursery Staff Person; and planning and coordinating church events with the appropriate church staff and ministries as needed.
The Wednesday Outreach Ministries responsibilities include supporting and coordinating the volunteer Community Lunch staff and the Food Pantry staff in providing these outreach ministries.
This is a 20 hour/week, year-round position with paid vacation. The Coordinator of CE and Wednesday Outreach Ministries will provide support to families and will create, coordinate, and provide a variety of spiritual, relational, and mission experiences. For further information, please contact the Rev. Dr. Allen Grothe (allengrothe@yahoo.com or 440-371-1885).
St. Lucas UCC, Preschool Director, 3/12/2014
We are seeking a preschool director who is an enthusiastic leader with a love of children and a passion for early childhood education. The director is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the school, ensuring the safety of all the children and promoting Christian principles through curriculum and classroom experiences. Job responsibilities include but are not limited to developing curriculum and assessment practices; observing, mentoring, and evaluating the faculty; planning staff development; marketing; enrollment and student placement; communications with parents, school board, and church staff; budget planning; and overseeing the maintenance of the overall classroom and school environments. Click here for the full job description and how to apply.
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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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