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Friday, February 12, 2016

The next eHappenings is scheduled for Monday, February 29, 2016

Deadline for submissions is 8:00 am on 2/25/16 

 

 Issues will be emailed on the 15th and 30th/31st of each month - or the nearest weekday.  Email your  

church/organization/agency events and any items you wish to advertise to Kris at kris@mmsucc.org.

Full issues of eHappenings 


FUTURE EVENTS

 
New Melle Community Passion Play in need of Male Actors & Choir Director
 
We are in need of actors and a choir director for this year's Easter production.  This is the 35th  year for this event which starts on March 12. The male roles are for the Richman and the Disciple Thomas, both have short speaking parts. Rehearsals are at 7pm on Mondays at Friedens Peace United Church of Christ, 3560 Mill St., New Melle, MO 63365. Costumes are provided. People of all ages for crowd scenes are also needed. If interested, please contact: Donna - 636-634-1150. 
 
February 7, 14, 21 & 28, Imago Dei in Films, 10:45am-11:45am
 
During the month of February, we will be discussing how we can find theological images of God in secular films.  We will be watching the film, Pleasantville, starring Tobey Maguire, Reese Witherspoon and Jeff Daniels.  in this film, two 1990s teenagers find themselves in a 1950s sitcom where their influence begins to profoundly change that complacent world.  We will be viewing a portion of the film each week while discussing different theological topics such as the church, God, Christ and the Holy Spirit.  Kirkwood UCC Student Pastor Stephen Stark will lead this 4-week series in the KUCC theater.  Childcare available.  314-822-2240 for more information.
February, Lenten Soup Suppers, 6:30pm
 
Starting Ash Wednesday, February 10th, through Wednesday, March 16th, Eden United Church of Christ, 8920 Eden Ave., Affton, 63119- will be hosting Lenten Soup Suppers.  On February 10th, supper will be followed by an Ash Wednesday worship at 7:15pm.  In subsequent weeks, the soup supper will be followed by a devotion and study time.  Our study text, The God We Can Know by Rob Fuquay, focuses on the "I Am" statements of Jesus in the Gospel of John.  The public is invited. 314-631-8930 for more information.
February 12, Eden Seminary's 4th Annual Bracke Lecture, 10:30am 
  
Where: Eden Seminary, 475 E. Lockwood Ave., Webster Groves, MO 63119
Speaker: Rahiel Tesfamariam
Ms. Tesfamariam is a social activist, public theologian, writer and international speaker. She is the founder and publisher of Urban Cusp, a cutting-edge online lifestyle magazine highlighting progressive urban culture, faith, social change and global awareness as well as a former columnist for the Washington Post.
 
February 14, Valentine's Dinner, 11am-2pm
 
St.James United Church of Christ, Morrison, MO invites everyone to attend a Valentine's Day Dinner.  Enjoy a delicious menu of fried chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, vegetables and coleslaw, homemade bread and pie. The cost is $10/Adults, $5/Children (12-6). Children 5 and  under eat free. St. James is 13 miles west of Hermann, or 8 miles east of Chamois on Hwy 100.  Handicap accessible.  Event flyer
February 14, Installation of the Rev. Victoria Hampton, 3pm
 
The St. Louis Association of the Missouri Mid-South Conference of the United Church of Christ and St. Luke's United Church of Christ, invite you to a worship service to install the Rev. Victoria Hampton.  Preacher for the service is Rev. Joe Rowley, Pastor at Emanuel UCC, Jackson, MO.  Clergy are invited to robe with red stoles and join in the procession.  Please arrive by 2:30 (you will be directed to the correct room upon arrival).  A reception will follow in the fellowship hall.
St. Luke's is located at 6610 St. Luke's Church Rd., Imperial, MO  63052
February 16, Tuesday Evenings Lenten Study, 6:30pm
 
St. Luke's United Church of Christ, Independence, will host a Lenten Study on Tuesday evenings beginning February 16th and continuing through Tuesday, March 15th. The Rev. Paul Emily will be leading the study. The study will be about the Apostles.  The evening will begin with a Meager Meal at 6:30 followed by a brief introduction of the topic and then group discussion.
February 20, Black Lives Matter Roundtable, 5pm-7pm
 
Bethany Way Christian Church, 4025 Wilmington Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 is hosting a "Black Lives Matter"  Reasons-Realities-Real Responses Roundtable.  Featuring Rev. Dr. Deborah Krause, Academic Dean and Professor of New Testament at Eden Theological Seminary, and Rev. Dr. Leah Gunning-Francis, Associate Dean of Contextual Educationa, Assistant Professor of Christian Education at Eden Theological Seminary.  Event FLYER
February 20, Parent Workshop, 9am-11am
  
Slow down, take a deep breath, and learn to celebrate the moments in life...
Come join us for this great workshop, titled; Seamless Faith with Rev. Traci Smith, PCUSA, pastor at Northwood Presbyterian Church, San Antonio, Texas.  The workshop will be held at Parkway United Church of Christ, 2841 N Ballas, Town & Country, MO 63131.  This workshop includes a copy of her book, Seamless Faith, which is filled with easy-to-organize traditions, ceremonies, and spiritual practices for any of life's stressful and faith-filled moments.  This is a resource parents will rely on for years to come.  Schedule includes a continental breakfast, the presentation, and a question and answer period.
Registration is $25 and $30 for couples, which includes her book.  Registration form can be found online at parkwayucc.org.  Children welcome for special program including a craft project from the book, snack, and activities with no extra charge.  Questions?  Contact barbk@parkwayucc.org

February 20-March 3, St. Lucas Trip to Israel & Jordan
 
Visiting the land of the Bible is an important pilgrimage to make. It's a complicated land where great and tragic events have occurred - some of which are described in the Bible itself, others have occurred across the ages, and more recently in the on-going struggle between Israelis and Palestinians over the same small patch of land. This trip is designed to offer a first-hand look at this multi-layered story, visiting sites where the historical events of the Bible and beyond occurred. We will visit both Jewish and Palestinian villages and cities. The land is rich with story and the connections are made that intersect our lives and our faith. If interested, contact St. Lucas UCC office for a fact sheet giving a detailed description of the trip including cost.  Call: 314-843-2100
 
February 20, Chili Supper, 4-7pm
Click HERE for flyer Please plan to come to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ, 620 N Woods Mill Rd. Chesterfield, Mo  63017, and warm up with spicy regular or white chili!  Eat-in or carry out.  Just $10 per adult/$5 per child under 12.  Includes all you can eat veggies, chips, crackers, beverages, homemade desserts and hot dogs for the kids!   Proceeds from the chili supper will go to support Ivy Chapel Christian outreach initiatives.  PLUS... there will be a raffle to help support youth mission trips!
February 21, Chinese New Year Celebration, Noon
Samuel UCC's Chinese Ministry is sponsoring a Chinese New Year Celebration in conjunction with Parkway UCC.  This event will be held at Parkway UCC at 2841 N Ballas. We will have traditional Chinese food, dumplings, and entertainment, including the Lion Dance, music and more! This event is free, but due to limited space please RSVP to secretary@samuelucc.org by February 1
7th.

February 21, Special Recipe Fried Chicken Dinner, Noon-6pm

A few years ago, a member of Friedens Peace United Church of Christ, had brought his family's special recipe out of the closet. His father was the originator of the Country School Fried Chicken back in 1966 which later became Mr. Drumstick Fried Chicken restaurant franchise. After his father's passing over 25 years ago, restaurants were sold, records lost, and the recipe thought to be gone. Then records were found and now the special recipe has been recovered.
This is the 4th year Friedens brings this outstanding chicken to the community! The dinners will also include cornbread, mashed potatoes and gravy, slaw, baked beans, greenbeans and a dessert. Cost of the dinner: Adults & Carry-Outs, $11.00, kids 11-6 $5.50 and those 5 & under eat free. Friedens Peace is located at 3560 Mill Street in New Melle, MO 63365. There will be a Country Store, Crafts, Quilt & 50/50 raffles. For more information, call 636-828-5980 or email friedenspeace@gmail.com

February 21, Sausage Dinner, Noon-4pm
St. Luke's United Church of Christ, 6610 St. Luke's Church Rd., Imperial, MO 63052 is hosting a Sausage Dinner.  Adults- $11, Children- $5. We'll also have sausage for sale- rope and bulk sausage - $4.50/lb.  Carry-outs are available (adult only).  Morning worship will be held at 10am only. Questions, please call: 636-948-3545.   Event FLYER

February 27, Open & Affirming: Creating An Inclusive Church, 9am-3:30pm
Parkway United Church of Christ, 2841 N Ballas Rd. 63131, is hosting the 2016 Gateway ONA Convocation. Click here for more information.

February 28, Installation of the Rev. Wendy Bruner, 3pm
 
The St. Louis Association of the Missouri Mid-South Conference of the United Church of Christ and Peace United Church of Christ invite you to a worship service to install the Rev. Wendy Bruner at 204 E Lockwood Ave., St. Louis, MO 63119. Please join us!
 
February 28, Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Training, 1-3pm

The Stewards of Children program will increase knowledge, improve attitudes and change child-protective behaviors. This program is for any responsible adult who cares about the welfare of children. It is also appropriate for youth-serving organizations and personnel.
 
This training is being offered to Zion United Church of Christ in Union, MO and invited guests for NO CHARGE! (Donations will be accepted to cover shipping costs of Interactive Workbooks.)
 
Topics Covered:
  • Facts about the problem of child sexual abuse
  • The types of situations in which child sexual abuse might occur
  • Simple, effective strategies for protecting children from sexual abuse
  • The importance of talking about the prevention of sexual abuse with children and other adults
  • The signs of sexual abuse so that you might intervene and be able to react responsibly
What Outcomes You Can Expect:
  • Increased awareness of the prevalence, consequences and circumstances of child sexual abuse
  • New skills to prevent, recognize and react responsibly to child sexual abuse
  • Individual commitment to action via a personal prevention plan
CALL/EMAIL/TEXT TO REGISTER BY February 21, 2016, or Confirm Your Attendance with Alysha Petry, Zion United Church of Christ: apetry@zionunion.orgEvent flyer.   

February 28, Sausage Dinner, 11am-5pm
 
Please join us at St. Paul's United Church of Christ, 103 S Second St., Marthasville, MO for a Sausage & Sauerkraut  Dinner. Whole Hog Sausage offered for sale, homemade desserts, a Country Store and Quilt Raffle. Carry-Outs available along with valet parking.  Cost is $11/Adults, Children 5 to 12 $5. 
February 28, Taize-Style Worship Service, 8:15am 
 
Hope United Church of Christ, 6723 Eichelberger, St.Louis, 63109 is hosting this service based on simple, meditative songs, prayer, and silence. All are welcome to participate in this unique worship experience.  Join us!
March 5, Special Lenten Seminar, 8am-3pm
 
"Journey Through Loss and Grief" This special seminar will be held at St. John United Church of Christ, Highway 135 and JJ, Florence, MO 65329.  The presenters are Larry E. Gallamore and Janis Burke Gallamore. 
 
Seminar Schedule:
Registration begins at 7:30am (coffee, tea provided)
Seminar begins at 8am
Lunch Break: 12 noon to 1pm
Seminar Ends at 3pm
 
Cost of Seminar:  A free will offering will be taken to cover the cost of meal and materials
 
Register for this course by email to: k8Njer2@windstream.net or call Kathy Headrick at 573-377-3063, or send a note to St. John UCC, PO Box 116, Florence, MO  65329
March 5, Wurstmarkt/Sausage Dinner, 2pm-6pm
 
St. Peters United Church of Christ, 1425 Stein Rd. (corner of Stein and West Florissant) will be holding this dinner from 2-6pm (please note time change from past years). Dine in or Carry-out-walk-ins welcome. Adults are $10, Children (ages 6-12) $5. 
 
Menu -Bratwurst,Kraut w Pork Chunk, Peas w/ German Spalese Noodles, Real Mashed Potatoes, Homemade Peeled Apples w/ Cinnamon, Helfers Pastries, Beverages
 
All served family style - All you can eat!  For ticket information: 314-521-5694 or 314-831-3822.
March 6-8, 25th Annual Rural Ministry Conference
 
Where leaders in rural communities and congregations gather to gain insight and inspiration, to network and neighbor that our ministries might be empowered.  This ecumenical conference includes worship, keynote speakers, workshops and Bible study. A unique opportunity for participants to network with others who are active in and concerned about rural ministry.
Location:  All sessions held at Best Western Plus Hotel, Dubuque, IA- Registration is limited to the first 200 people and includes lunches and dinners.  Does not include lodging.
 
Early bird rate due by Feb 8:
1 person: $170, 2 or more: $150/person
 
Standard is due Feb 29:
1 person: $185, 2 or more: $165/person
Monday Afternoon Workshops Only: $50/person
 
SAVE $50 If you are a pastor who has been serving in a rural congregation for less than 5 years, you save $50! Sponsors and Support: Partially funded by a grant from The Esther and Carl Merklein Foundation.  Click link below for more information.
  
March 8, An Evening of Music, 7pm
 
The Kenyon College Chamber singers will present an evening of music at Hope United Church of Christ, 6273 Eichelberger, St. Louis, MO 63109. The group is noted for its versatility of vocal style and broad repertoire. At this stop on their 2016 Spring Tour, the 48-member group will present an eclectic mix of a cappella pieces including Bach, Brahms, Tchaikovsky and South African folk music. The event is free and open to the public. 
 March 11 & 12, 25th Annual Super Trivia Weekend
 
St. Philip's United Church of Christ, 10708 Lavinia in South County, is hosting this Trivia weekend.  There are different sets of questions (10 rounds with 10 questions per round for each night) and teams are welcome to play both nights.  New this year!!  Questions both nights by Dave Burton, STL Trivia Guy.  Doors open at 6:15pm - trivia begins at 7:00pm. $160.00 for a table of 8 each night.  Cash prize for 1st Place.  Feel free to bring your own snacks, beer and/or wine.  Soda, water and coffee will be complimentary.  Please contact Kathy at 314-843-4223 or kathyshelton@swbell.net for reservations.  Advance payment is required.
March 12, St. Patrick's Day Lunch and Dinner, 11:30am
 
Samuel United Church of Christ, 320 N Forsyth in Clayton will be hosting its Annual St. Patrick's Day Meal. This year Chef Matt Sherman of Kern Meat will bring another professional chef with him to help us prepare the very best St. Pat's Dinner to be had--this year with an additional twist: Irish Stew and Soda Bread for lunch and the great taste of our Corned Beef, Colcannon (Irish mashed potatoes), carrots, cabbage, and breads for dinner. Lunch and dinner will be topped off with beverages and our great dessert bar. A few evening diners will be able to reserve Irish Stew for their evening meal by calling the church ahead of time. All proceeds support the United Church of Christ Habitat for Humanity Build.  Almost every dollar of your ticket goes directly to the project. Watch for Matt Sherman on Fox2Now on March 5th as he talks about Kern's Corned Beef and, hopefully, our St. Pat's Dinner. Adult tickets for either lunch or dinner are $10. Children 3-12 are $5. Children under 3 are free. Contact the church office to reserve your tickets at secretary@samuelucc.org or at 314-727-9540.
 
March 12, Trivia Night, 6:30-8:30pm
 
Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ invites you to a family friendly night of Trivia!  All are welcome!  Tables of 8 are $80 or $12 per person.  Tea, lemonade, popcorn and pretzels are provided, and you are welcome to bring outside food and drink (beer, wine, soda). 50/50 raffle and cash prize for winning.  To reserve a table, call Stephen Lowry lowrys5358@gmail.com or the church office ivychapelucc@ivychapel.org  314-434-4991.  Doors open at 6pm.  Click HERE for flyer
March 12, Eleventh Annual Breakfast Buffet, 8am-1pm
 
Blue Springs Terrace, Inc., 312 SW 19th Terrace, Blue Springs, MO 64015, is hosting this fundraising buffet of fun and fellowship.  Please bring your family and friends.  We will feature homemade food which includes Pancakes, Sausage, French Toast Casserole, Biscuits and Sausage Gravy, Egg, Potato and Ham Casserole. Coffee Cake, Fruit Bowl, Coffee-Milk-Juice. Donations will be gratefully accepted!
 
Blue Springs Terrace is a home facility for retired Pastors and/or spouses in partnership with UCC/Christian Church (DOC)   FLYER
 
March 13, Sausage & Sauerkraut Dinner, 11am-2pm
 
All You Can Eat!  Immanuel United Church of Christ, North 4th & Elm, Wright City, MO will be hosting this meal which features, Link Pork Sausage, Sauerkraut, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Green Beans, Applesauce, Homemade Bread, Dessert & Beverages.  Carry-Outs are available.  Adults- $10, Children 6-12-$5, under 6, free.  Click HERE for flyer
March 13, Book Discussion; Between the World and Me, 11:45am
 
Hope United Church of Christ, 6273 Eichelberger, St.Louis, MO 63109, will host a discussion of Ta-Nehisi Coates' book, Between the World and Me in the Friendly Room.  This book on racial history in the United Staqtes is woven from personal narrative, reimagined history, and fresh, emotionally charged reportage.  Between the World and Me clearly illuminates the past, bracingly confronts our present, and offers a transcendent vision for a way forward. All are invited to read this book and join in the discussion.
March 26, Easter Egg Hunt, 10am
 
Samuel United Church of Christ will be hosting it's Annual Easter Egg Hunt on the church grounds at 320 N Forsyth in Clayton. Children of all ages are welcome to join us for a morning of storytelling, snacks, the egg hunt, an egg drop, crafts and a maze! This fun event is free and open to everyone.  Please join us!
April 2, Taste of Home Cooking School, 9am-3pm
 
Join us at The Scheidegger Center, 2300 W. Clay St., St. Charles, MO 63301 for our first ever Spring Taste of Home Cooking School in St. Charles!  Shop from our vendor fair featuring local vendors including food, flowers, jewelry, health & fitness, clothing and more!  Learn 10 NEW spring recipes taught by Taste of Home Culinary Specialist Karen Davis while enjoying a day out with friends.  Every attendee receives a gift bag full of giveaways, magazines and gifts! General Admission tickets starting at just $20-VIP and Super VIP upgrades available that include premium seating, catered lunch and the newest Taste of Home Cookbook.  Buy your tickets today.  For group ticket pricing (20+ tickets), contact Chris at 636-534-5218 or adamsc@emmaushomes.org.
April 6, Child Advocacy Day, 6am-5pm
 
Get on the Bus with Deaconess for this very important day!
 
In the spirit of our faith heritage, we seek to make child well-being a civic priority and give priority attention to the most vulnerable of our children.  Get on the Bus with Deaconess to Child Advocacy Day in Jefferson City!  Ride with us to raise your voice on behalf of children.  Individuals and groups welcome.  For more information, contact Alex Stallings, Director of Advocacy and Communications, Deaconess Foundation at alexs@deaconess.org.  Transportation, meals, snacks and materials provided free of charge.
 
April 7, The Festival of Young (Women) Preachers
 
You are invited to join the Alliance of Baptists at Eden Theological Seminary for this event!
The event is inspired by the work of the Academy of Preachers (AoP), which has existed since 2009 "to identify, network, support, and inspire young  people in their call to Gospel preaching."  Young preachers are asked to invite a mentor who will help them prepare for the event, and will also receive feedback from a preaching coach following the afternoon preaching sessions.
 
Note: Others who will be in St. Louis for the Alliance's Annual Gathering and who would like to show their support for these young preachers and their mentors are welcome to attend the Festival as well. Please choose the "Guest" option on the registration form.  https://app.etapestry.com/onlineforms/AllianceofBaptists/YMP2016-1-1-1-1.html
 
April 9, Trivia Night, 6pm
 
Come join the fun at St. Johns Evangelical UCC, 11333 St. Johns Church Rd. in Mehlville, for Trivia!   Doors opening at 6pm - questions starting at 7pm.  $20 per person / 8 per table.  Featuring 50/50 Heads and Tails, free soda, pretzels and popcorn, BYO food and drinks (alcohol is allowed). Proceeds support Youth Programs at St. Johns.  Please make your reservations by April 4th, to Pastor Debby at:  Debby@stjucc.org or 314-892-0848.  Click HERE for flyer
 
 
April 15-16, Bi-Vocational Ministry Conference 
 
MESA and its predecessor bodies have long been a part of Professional Church Leaders (PCL), an annual convening of ecumenical denominational leaders.  PCL is pleased to announce that it will host a conference, "Bi-Vocational Ministry in the 21st Century," April 15-16, 2016 at Epworth by the Sea on St. Simon's Island, Georgia. 

This conference is designed for bi-vocational ministers and for governing body and judicatory executives, with workshops and keynotes at a beautiful location. Registration is now open! Contact Elizabeth Dilley (dilleye@ucc.org) if you have any questions.

April 18-20, Polity Conference, "Mission, Church Polity, and the (Dis)Unity of the Church"

MESA will make available a limited number of scholarships - up to $250 each - to help support applicants whose papers are accepted to attend the conference: "Mission, Church Polity, and the (Dis)Unity of the Church," 18 - 20 April 2016, at Princeton Theological Seminary.  In return, we would ask that you make your paper available to MESA to share with other teachers and learners of UCC History, Polity, and Theology.  Please send your request for scholarship assistance once your paper has been accepted.  You may send the request directly to Kathy Clark (clark@ucc.org). Conference information can be found at:

April 18-20, UCC Clergywomen Leadership Event

The 2016 UCC Clergywomen Leadership will host an event April 18-20. The theme is "Preparing for, Stepping Into, and Sustaining Our Leadership." Keynote presenters are 2015 Antoinette Brown Award winners the Rev. Traci Blackmon, the Rev. Sharon Ellis Davis, and the Rev. Martha Spong.

The event will take place April 18-20, 2016 (noon to noon) at the Carefree Resort and Conference Center in Carefree, Arizona. It is designed for any UCC clergy who identifies as female, and will provide a mix of plenary sessions, smaller group times (for networking, mobilizing, and learning from one another), and free time to refresh and be energized by the beauty of Arizona. The $100 registration for the event includes housing in single rooms and four meals during the event, additional discounts are provided for Antoinette Brown Society Members (click here to join). Child care will be provided.

The website for the event and the registration portal can be found here:

April 23, Western Association Spring Meeting
 
Hosted by Immanuel UCC, New Franklin, MO.  More information to follow.
April 24, Eastern Association Spring Meeting, 2-5pm
 
Hosted by Faith UCC, Wentzville.  More information to follow.
 April 29-May 1, 2016 Women's Retreat
 
Come join us for a weekend of spiritual renewal, recreation, crafts, and fellowship at Camp MoVal in Union, Missouri. Scholarships are available. Our speakers, Susan Drake and Julie Jennings, will share their thoughts on "Finding Freedom in Forgiveness" - the what, why, and how - as we delve into how giving and receiving forgiveness impacts our daily lives.
Look forward to good fellowship, thoughtful discussions, and fun as we learn more about becoming the women God intends us to be. Click HERE for registration brochure.
                                                                                                                           
May 5, St. Louis Association Spring Meeting
  
More details to follow.
 
May 15, Friends of Emmaus 5th Annual Spring Festival
 
Please join us for a day filled of fun and activities to honor and support the Emmaus homes!
More details to come.
 June 9-11, MMSUCC Conference Annual Gathering (CAG)
 
Mark your calendars for this year's Conference Annual Gathering to be held at the Holiday Inn Executive Center in Columbia, MO.  More details to follow. 

ADVERTISEMENT SECTION

New Advertising Guidelines - Items for Sale/Free
Items that are offered for free or for sale within our Conference (i.e. robes, pews, hymnals, books, etc.) will now be advertised in our eHappenings eblast.  Items will be shared for one month, which means the ad will appear twice.  If you would like the item(s) to be shared the following month, please contact Kris with your request.  The maximum time frame is two months.

As a reminder, the eHappenings is our Conference eblast which shares the upcoming church/organization/agency events occurring within our surrounding area and from our national office in Cleveland.  The eHappenings is emailed each month on the 15th and then again on the 30th or 31st. 

Please send any items you care to advertise, as well as your upcoming events, to Kris at kris@mmsucc.org.  Thank you.

FREE Choir Risers, January 15, 2016

St. John UCC, 405 S Fifth St., Saint Charles, 63301. We have free choir risers. These are three-tiered, total of 14 sections, 18" deep, 8 foot long, and various heights. If interested call the church office, 636.946.0961.
 

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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 included.