Thursday, February 12, 2015
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Around Your Conference

Allen's Message to You... 
 

...Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain apart, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his clothes became dazzling white, such as no one on earth could bleach them. And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, who were talking with Jesus. Then Peter said to Jesus, "Rabbi, it is good for us to be here...."

                                                                           Mark 9:2-5a

 

Dear Christian friends and colleagues,

 

               The Festival of Transfiguration which is celebrated in our churches this Sunday marks the culmination in Epiphany Season of the growing awareness among us that this Jesus who has done signs and wonders in our midst and has shared words of transformation among us is indeed the One who has become the Christ for us, the image of Divine transcendence by whom the powers that rule the empires of the earth are overcome. It is an ecstatic vision, characterized by blinding light and reminiscent of the moment of truth too bright for human eyes that was seen by Moses on the mountain or the chariot of fire that concealed in its glow the Prophet Elijah as he ascended into heaven. The story reminds us of our spiritual hunger for the moment when faith and faithfulness are gifted with wonder, joy and celebration for the journey we are called to complete for God.

 

               The language of religion is a language of dreams and wonders and ecstasies. Its stories are of those times when worship broke out spontaneously in the midst of people's daily work and play and rest. Jacob lays his head upon a stone and awakens to a dream of angels on a heavenly ladder; Ezekiel in his despair over his lost people has a vision of life breathed into a field of bones; John of Patmos, in the midst of expressing his disappointment with the world as it is, envisions a new heaven and a new earth on a day still to come when the old earth and its sorrows are no more.

 

               It is strange to think that with all the marvels we are able to experience today, our world seems to lack an expectation of wonder.   Maybe we don't believe that visions happen anymore, or maybe we just don't trust them when they do. We go to church looking for many things - life lessons, eternal rules, moral guidance, spiritual reassurance, comforting words, prophetic judgments, evidence of God, or even, occasionally, a good, defining argument. But often, when the service is ended, we go out the door completely unaware that something transcendent has happened there. We'll be better at being Christians when we know it has.

 

May the wonder of Epiphany fill your hearts on this final celebrative day of the Season - the day we knew for the very first time that Jesus is the Christ for us, to the glory of God.

 

Allen

Allen M. Fluent, Acting Conference Minister  

Important Update Regarding Anthem Data Breach


The below email was shared from the UCC Pension Boards:

You are receiving this e-mail because you are a participant in the UCC Non-Medicare or Medicare Supplement Health Plans.

Please Note: 
  • As widely reported, Anthem, Inc., the country's second-biggest health insurer, announced on February 5, 2015 it was the target of a very sophisticated external cyber attack.
     
  • Anthem reported that "These attackers gained unauthorized access to Anthem's IT system and have obtained personal information from our current and former members such as their names, birthdays, medical IDs/Social Security numbers, street addresses, e-mail addresses and employment information, including income data. Based on what we know now, there is no evidence that credit card or medical information, such as claims, test results or diagnostic codes were targeted or compromised."
     
  • Although UCC Health Plan members are not Anthem members, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, our medical benefits administrator, partners with Anthem to serve UCC members by accessing care and processing claims.
     
  • The Pension Boards has been working closely with Highmark to understand any potential impact for UCC Health Plan members.
     
  • There have been reports of scam e-mail campaigns. Both Anthem and Highmark have confirmed they have not begun contacting members regarding this cyber attack. Do not provide, via phone or e-mail, any personal information regarding this cyber attack to anyone claiming to be from Anthem, Highmark, or the Pension Boards.
     
  • Anthem has established a website with all of the current information (http://www.anthemfacts.com/). On this site is a letter to its members along with a Q&A sheet (http://www.anthemfacts.com/faq).
     
  • Visit our website, www.pbucc.org, as updates will be posted as information becomes available.
As always, please contact us at
1.800.642.6543, Option 6 if you have any questions or need assistance.
 

Pension Boards-UCC | 475 Riverside Drive, Room 1020 | New York | NY | 10115 | 800-642-6543

Why Should My Church Participate in the Yearbook Process?

As of today, 28 churches in our Conference have submitted their yearbook forms, which is less than 1/4.  The deadline is February 27 (only 15 days away!) to submit your forms to our Conference so your church's info can be entered.  If your church plans to enter their statistics directly into the data hub, the deadline in March 9.  And a big thank you to the 10 churches who entered their own information online!  Nice job!!! 

If you are wondering why your church should participate in the yearbook process, please read the following article "Eleven Reasons Why Reporting Your Church's Annual Data Is Important." 

 

Below are the yearbook instructions/forms sent on January 14:  

Please refer to the above Church Instructions link to further assist you. And remember there are many great video tutorials available from Cleveland to help you with every step of the yearbook process.   


We hope to see many more of our churches participate in this annual statistical gathering.  Thank you in advance for your cooperation - Renee 

Ordination of Janice Barnes

The St. Louis Association

of the Missouri Mid-South Conference of the United Church of Christ

and

the First Congregational Church of Webster Groves, UCC

 cordially invite your presence for the ordination of

 Janice Barnes

 to the Ministry of the Word and Sacrament

on

Sunday, March 1, 2015, at 3:00 PM

First Congregational Church of Webster Groves

United Church of Christ

 10 West Lockwood Avenue

Saint Louis, Missouri, 63119

 

Jan has been called to the pastorate of Trinity United Church of Christ, Saint Louis.

The Rev. Carol Shanks, of Bethany United Church of Christ, Cahokia, Illinois, will offer the sermon.
Music by the First Church Music Ministry and the Rainbow Bluegrass Pickup Band.

 

A reception in Memorial Hall will follow.

For clergy: Robes and red stoles are encouraged, please plan to gather by 2:30 PM for procession.

Annual MMSUCC Men's Retreat

The Annual Men's Retreat will be held on May 1-3 at our own Shannondale Community Center.  Please click here to view the brochure and registration form. 

The Men's Retreat is the perfect opportunity to renew, reflect, and regain your spiritual growth.  Here's a quote from a first-time retreat attendee, Glenn Haake, "I attended the retreat for the first time just thinking it would be an opportunity for a weekend escape from the busyness of life. I enjoyed getting to know several of the men during the work session and the afternoon free time touring the area. The weekend became special for me as I sat on a bench in the middle of the woods in prayer and for the first time in 47 years I heard an audible response from God, it is an experience I will reflect on for many years to come...I encourage you and your breakout groups to attend the retreat and not only grow closer to each other, but spend time reconnecting with God."
Annual MMSUCC Women's Retreat

Save the date! The Annual Women's Retreat will be held on May 1-3, 2015, at our own Camp MoVal. This year's theme is "Under the Shelter of God's Wings", with the leaders of Sue Ulmer and Devoree Crist.  

 

Devoree Crist and Susan Ulmer are spiritual directors in the St. Louis area. They are grateful to share space with five other spiritual directors on the campus of Eden Theological Seminary for the ministry of companioning others in their walk of faith. Their Opening to the Sacred Retreat Ministry has been active for 5 years and includes Rest for Your Soul, Opening to the Sacred Series, Days of Reflection. Calm within Chaos and more. Those who have attended are individual groups, clergy, churches, retirement communities, women's groups and recently Deaconess Faith Community Nurse Ministries. They offer safe space with the Holy and learn ways to be open to the grace of God abundantly and freely given. Both are active members of their congregations, Peace UCC and Webster Groves.

 

Please click here to view the brochure, which contains a registration form and further information.   

2015 NGLI Application Process

Hopefully you have heard by now about the investment in young transformational leaders and the church of the future through the Next Generation Leadership Initiative. The Pension Boards is seeking to contribute to the greater good by encouraging, equipping and sustaining young clergy for service in local congregations of the United Church of Christ.

 

Here's a video that tells the NGLI story:  NGLI Target 2030 Initiative Program Video and Article Those selected for participating in NGLI will receive... 

  • Ten years of advanced training and education to hone their pastoral leadership skills and gifts for service to the Church,
  • Participation in a cohort of colleagues that encourages, challenges, and reflects together on the life of a local church pastor in the twenty-first century,
  • Financial incentive-a $10,000 seed contribution is made to the participant's Annuity Plan account, which should have a value of approximately $75,000 at the end of a 35-year career. (Figures based on an assumed growth rate of 6% per year over a 35-year period.  It will be 50% vested at the end of the fourth year and fully vested at the end of the tenth year.)

I am writing today because we need your assistance in helping reach the pool of all eligible pastors.  We have identified the ideal candidate as:

  • 35 years of age or under at the point of admission to NGLI,
  • Authorized for ministry in and on behalf of the UCC by an Association/Conference,
  • Served a total of five years or less as an authorized minister in a parish,
  • Hold a called position of 20 hours per week or more in a parish setting,
  • Committed to long-term ministry in local churches of the United Church of Christ.

Attached to this email are detailed documents about the training provided and the application process.  Please help the Church by getting these materials in the hands of any eligible clergy you may know-- notice of intention to apply is due March 27-so don't delay!  Spread the word and be a part of the transformation in this way!

 

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at [email protected] or 800-642-6543 x2716.  The website ngli2030.pbucc.org is also a good source of information.  Additional helpful documents:  Application Process   FAQ's   NGLI Flyer 

  

Rev. Krista L. Betz

Director, Ministerial Assistance

The Pension Boards United Church of Christ

The Brown Endowment - Supporting Pastoral Education

 

If you're a dedicated member of the UCC, active in your local church, and responding to a call to ministry, you may be eligible to become a Brown Scholar. If you're a leader in a regional ministry, your organization may be eligible to receive Brown funds to offer continuing education and ministerial support. If you're preparing for international ministry through Wider Church Ministries of the UCC, you may also be eligible for support from The Brown Endowment.    

 

In December at the Authorizing Ministry in the 21st Century event (AM21), Nelson Murphy made an announcement about changes in the application process for Brown Scholarships. The intent is to make the funds more widely available and to be consistent with the changes that have taken place in the life of the church related to multiple paths to ordination while honoring the intent of the generous donors, Helen and Richard Brown. 

 

The application process is now open and the deadline for applications is February 15; and all supporting documents must be received by March 2.  The Browns were particularly concerned about pastoral  leadership from communities of color, so we should be proactive in encouraging all MiDs to apply, but especially persons of color. 

 

The application process is online and can be easily accessed by clicking here, and please click here to view a brochure for further information. 

Camp MoVal 2015 Summer Brochures

The 2015 Summer Camp Brochure will soon arrive in your mailbox!  Over the next week all of our churches, campers and families should receive their 2015 Summer Camp Catalog. This year's theme is "Power Up, Living in the Spirit".  Campers will learn how to live as a follower of Christ powered by the Holy Spirit. Camp MoVal continues to provide quality Christian education and faith formation, in addition to many camp activities, outdoor education and faith building exercises for all who visit and participate.

 

New programs for the 2015 season include a camp for college students and young adults during the summer season, along with a winter camp experience for junior and middle school age campers. MoVal prides itself on developing new programs to meet the needs of all.  If there is an activity you would like to see added to our program schedule, please let us know.

 

Camp MoVal is an accredited organization of the American Camp Association. This means Camp MoVal maintains the highest level in camping standards and delivers very high quality programming and ministry in a safe and sacred space. For more information, extra brochures/registration forms, or to volunteer, please contact the camp office at 636-583-2730. You can also visit our website www.campmoval.org, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

Welcome to Our Newest Staff Member!

   

We are pleased to announce that Kris Scott has joined our Missouri Mid-South Conference staff in this new position. Kris's first day was Monday, February 2, and has regular office hours from 9 to 4, Monday through Friday. She comes to us with experience in data entry,  and customer service, and has worked as an executive assistant and receptionist. Kris is a graduate of Lindbergh High School and has completed coursework at St Louis Community College.   

 

Kris's email address is [email protected] and her direct phone line is 314-918-2605.  We are already enjoying her presence at the office and are also thrilled to have more helpful hands to serve you and our Conference.   

Quote for your week... love

The greatest gift that you can give to others is the 
gift of unconditional love and acceptance. 
- Brian Tracy  
Employment Opportunities
 
Employment postings will run for one month, unless otherwise specified. 
 

Office Administrator/Bookkeeper, Webster Groves Christian Church (DOC), 2/4/2015

This is a part time position (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM Tuesday through Friday - 20 hrs per week), at Webster Groves Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), 1320 W. Lockwood Ave., Kirkwood, MO 63122,    

and requires knowledge and facility with bookkeeping procedures and software, website management, Microsoft Office (including Publisher), as well as strong interpersonal and organizational skills, the ability to work with a team, and to keep confidences.  Successful candidate will have minimum of Associate degree or comparable experience in accounting/bookkeeping and general office skills.  $18-$20 per hour, as per experience.  Please send inquiries, resumes and references to [email protected] 

 

Chaplain, Cape Albeon, 1/15/2015 For more information, please contact Carol DiSanza, Executive Director at [email protected] or 636-431-2010.

Administrative Assistant, St. John's UCC, Chesterfield, 1/15/2015
This is a part-time 25-30 hour a week position. The ideal candidate will be a self-starter and go-getter who works effectively on their own as well as part of a team.  Great typing, filing, written and verbal communication skills,

along with attention to detail and the ability to multi-task, while remaining calm in varied situations.  Experience with Microsoft Office, Planning Center Online and Pro Presenter computer experience highly preferred. Past experience in a church environment preferred. Other duties: Prepare weekly church bulletin.  Prepare reports, correspondence, fliers, announcements, and other materials. Maintain membership directory and various email lists.  Manage office and order office supplies.  Coordinate and schedule volunteers for office and Sunday service.  Facilitate Vendor and maintenance personnel for property, equipment repairs, installations, and special events (i.e. wedding parties, picnic and course workshops, retreats and special events.) Other duties as needed.

Resumes only, no calls please.  Please submit a job specific cover letter and application to:

[email protected]   For more information on St. John's U.C.C. visit us at www.stjohnsuccchesterfield.org 

Conference Quick Links
 
Conference Website          National UCC Website        Conference Calendar              
      
           2015 Remittance Form        Email Your Conference Office

                        2015 Clergy Compensation Materials

               2014 Commitment to Basic Support/OCWM Form 
           
Contact Us

Missouri Mid-South Conference United Church of Christ  314-962-8740 or 877-877-5884  
 
Email [email protected] to submit information for a future issue.  Not all submissions may be used in future eCouriers.