| Mission Bite: from across the Minnesota Conference | |
from Rev. Sarah Campbell, Pastor, Mayflower UCC, Minneapolis
"God of life, lead us to justice and peace"
 The World Council of Churches (WCC) was born in 1948 out of the same ecumenical movement that gave birth to the UCC. It is the largest gathering of Christians in the world, including 345 denominations from all over the world. Every seven years, 3,000 people from 140 countries gather for ten days somewhere in the world. At this Assembly, these Christian leaders set the direction for ecumenical Christian work in the world in these times. In the intervening years, the WCC staff in Switzerland (now down to 100) and the Central Committee (Rev. Geoffrey Black, General Minister and President of the UCC is part of the Central Committee) does the work that the Assembly calls for. The WCC works closely with the UN and other world religious bodes and NGOs. The WCC does humanitarian, justice and education work.
From October 30 to November 8 the 10th Assembly of the WCC met in Busan, South Korea. Several Minnesotans were present, including Rev. Sarah Campbell from Mayflower Church who was one of four delegates of the UCC, USA. You can find the public policy statements that passed this Assembly at: http://www.oikoumene.org/en/resources/documents/assembly/2013-busan/adopted-documents-statements. You can find a library of theological papers at: http://www.oikoumene.org/en/resources/documents. The World Council literature is remarkable - a kind of gospel within the gospel for the world in these times. The WCC creates the new theologies and the new language, as well as political analysis and strategy, that most of us use without realizing its origins. In 1998, Nelson Mandela said: "To us in South and Southern Africa, and indeed the entire continent, the WCC has always been known as a champion of the oppressed and exploited. The vast majority of our people hear the name of the WCC with joy. It encouraged and inspired us. Thirty years ago, (1968), you launched a program that broke new ground and set direction for the future..." At this 10th Assembly there were major conversations about the devastating socio-economic-ecological effects of international neo-liberal economics; the rights of religious minorities around the world; the hope for Korean unification; the future elimination of nuclear arms and energy; the changes in the definition of missionary work ie. from South to North and margins to center, and so much more. Sarah was on the leadership team for the four day Ecumenical conversation on the Middle East. She was also involved in several conversations about homosexuality and disability. She was instrumental in getting the WCC to call on President Obama to reject the Keystone Pipeline. See: http://www.oikoumene.org/en/resources/documents/assembly/2013-busan/adopted-documents-statements/minute-on-climate-justice. Sarah was changed by the experience forever and grateful to the UCC and Mayflower for granting her this honor. She fell in love with the hymn "Until All Are Fed" by Bryan McFarland. To hear more about how she was affected by this experience, listen to the second half of her December 8th sermon "Uncover": http://www.mayflowermpls.org/worship/sermons or read the sermon "Uncover" beginning with the words: "Do we dare ask ourselves whether it is really possible?
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Joys and Concerns
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1. A Service of Farewell for Rev. Jeff Palmer will be held on Sunday, December 22 at 9:30am at Bethlehem UCC (400 Cty Rd 37, Maple Lake). Rev. Palmer has served Bethlehem UCC since 2005
2. Circles of Faith UCC will hold a Service of Farewell for Rev. Kristy May on Sunday, December 22 at 10:00am. The church is located at 1313 Main Street in Waubun. Rev. May has served Circles of Faith UCC since 2010.
3. A Service of Farewell for Rev. James Pennington will be held on Sunday, December 22 at 10:30am at Living Table UCC (4001 38th Avenue South, Minneapolis). Rev. Pennington was called to serve Spirit of the Lakes in 2007. In 2009 he also began to serve Minnehaha UCC. The two congregations became one as Living Table UCC in 2012 with Rev. Pennington serving as its minister.
4. Emerson Congregational UCC will hold its final service on Sunday, December 29 at 9:30am. Coffee hour will follow the service. The church is located in Richfield at 7601 Girard Avenue South. Emerson Congregational Church was founded in 1949 and joined the United Church of Christ in 1959.
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2013 MN Homeless Memorial March & Service
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Join Conference Minister Shari Prestemon
and other UCC members to witness for justice.
On Thursday, December 19, the 29th annual Minnesota Homeless Memorial March & Service will take place, sponsored by Simpson Housing Services. Since 1984, hundreds from throughout the state march through downtown Minneapolis in silent vigil to remember persons who died while homeless. Marchers carry individual signs with the name, age, and hometown of every person being remembered. A memorial service follows, where candles are lighted for each person lost.
As we await the Prince of Peace this Advent, you are invited to participate in this march alongside Conference Minister Shari Prestemon, Reverend T. Michael Rock (Robbinsdale UCC, Robbinsdale), and other UCC members who do so as a way of offering a witness for justice and hope in a world where far too many still sleep - and die - on our streets nationwide.
United Church of Christ members will gather inside the front doors of the Hennepin County Government Center at 4:45 pm on December 19 to march together beginning at 5 pm. The evening continues at Simpson United Methodist Church (2740 1st Avenue South, Minneapolis) with a Service of Remembrance at 6:30. Wear any UCC pins, coats, hats, or scarves you may have, and dress warmly and comfortably. Drop Shari Prestemon a line to let her know to look for you! (sharip@uccmn.org)
For further information on the homeless memorial march and service, see http://www.simpsonhousing.org/memorial.html.
 | | MN Homelessness Memorial March |
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Gifts that Keep Giving: Support the Conference
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 When we think of gifts this time of year, we imagine shiny boxes filled with toys, neckties, sweaters and books.
But some of the greatest gifts don't come wrapped in paper.
One of the greatest gifts we have as a Conference is you. Thank you for all the gifts you share.
Please take a moment to reflect on the gifts the Conference has given to you and your church.
When you give to the Minnesota Conference Annual Fund, we pass the gift on to congregations, ministers, and communities.
The Conference supports churches in ways no other organizations does. It helps ministers navigate times of crisis. It gives youth and adults alike on their spiritual journeys. It brings together leaders for trainings and peer support groups.
In this season of joyous giving, please be a Friend of the Conference. Make a year-end contribution to our Annual Fund today and ensure our ministries continue to thrive tomorrow.
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5 for 5 Deadline set for 2013 Contributions
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Five for Five 2013
deadline set for Wednesday, January 15
Checks with gifts for UCC Basic Support (Our Church's Wider Mission), One Great Hour of Sharing, Strengthen the Church, Neighbors in Need, and the Christmas Fund will need to be received at the Conference Office by Wednesday, January 15 to be counted toward your 2013 Five for Five tally. Offerings we receive after Wednesday, January 15 will be credited, with gratitude, to your 2014 giving. Please help us with your understanding and your support, and by meeting this deadline for 2012 Five Funds gifts. If you have questions, please contact the Business Office at business@uccmn.org. Pastors and Moderators: please make sure this information gets passed on to your church treasurer.
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Micro-Grants now available!
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The Minnesota Conference UCC is pleased to announce the approval of up to $10,000 for congregation micro-grants of $200-$700 from the Ashley Endowment. Grants must support the congregation's ministry and work with children, youth and/or families.
View and download the grant application here.
While scheduling faith formation events, please consider avoiding Pilgrim Point Youth Camp dates;
- July 20-25, 2014
- July 27-August 1, 2014
Questions? Email Zac at zacn@uccmn.org or call the Conference Office at 612-871-0359!
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Get your Congregation to Pilgrim Point in 2014!
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Congregations of the Minnesota Conference UCC are invited to sponsor a week or weekend at Pilgrim Point. Each day we provide all-camp, cross-generational programming and offer worship planning and support for the Vespers leadership (done once a day as all-camp). We will provide as little or as much of the worship and programming, based off your congregation's needs. There will still be plenty of time for relaxing, playing at the beach and in the water, playing in the ball field or creating your own experiences! Not to mention the great food, community and hospitality!
Check out the Reservation Form for lodging and rate information.
On the back, you can find procedures on how to make a successful reservation. Please read through this carefully before submitting your application. Contact Zac at zacn@uccmn.org for available dates and other questions.
Currently available weekend dates and facilities:
- July 11-13, 2014 | Annex, North Shore
- July 25-27, 2014 | Annex, North Shore, POEM Cabins
- August 1-3, 2014 | Annex, North Shore, POEM Cabins, and Campground
- August 8-10, 2014 | North Shore, Campground
- August 22-24, 2014 | North Shore and Campground
- September 12-14, 2014 | ALL
- September 26-28, 2014 | ALL
- October 24-26, 2014 | ALL
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Evaluation of CPR Resources Underway
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Evaluation of the Center for Progressive Renewal Resources Underway
The Conference's contract with the Center for Progressive Renewal (CPR) is up for renewal and we are seeking feedback from anyone who has attended a workshop, been part of a coaching group, or any other service from CPR through the Minnesota Conference. While we sent an email out about the survey, but in case you missed it - there is a brief online survey we are inviting participants to fill out. Your feedback is needed to evaluate what has been done and what needs to be done.
To complete the survey go to:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/XW9DKL8
Thanks for your help!
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New Authorized Minister Profile Portal!
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Due to come out Jan. 31, 2014
The new system is to be released Jan. 31, 2014. By means of a validated denominational Profile and a live, self-reported 'Snapshot' - will document eligibility for call as well as improve timely visibility for ministers. Unlike the 'vintage' profile, the new profile contains only three written/phone references, and gives space for a variety of callings and vocational experiences. What doesn't change in the profile: the criminal background check, an ethical self-disclosure, and conference verification of ministerial standing and fitness. Search committees will receive some of both profiles for up to 18 months, or until vintage profiles expire. (Note: Search and Call Staff across the 38 conferences are the first to be trained on the new system, beginning this December. Authorized ministers can expect online "how to" video tutorials in January found at www.ucc.org/ministers/profile.)
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Habitat for Humanity Trips Coming Up!
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 This will be the 25th year Minnesota Conference UCC members and friends will travel to Coahoma County Mississippi, to help build houses for those most in need. Coahoma County is one of the poorest counties in the USA and Jonestown Mississippi is one of the poorest towns in Coahoma County. We will be working on three houses this year: finishing and dedicating one house, continuing the work on a second and starting with a cement slab and framing a third house. We can use volunteers of any age or skill, as there will be plenty of work for all. We hope to have 20 volunteers helping each week. Questions? Contact Bob Peterson at rpeter446@aol.com. An application and more information is available here. We look forward to having you join us!
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Clergy Clusters in the Coming Week
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There are no clergy clusters in the coming week.
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A Conversation with Rev. Prestemon
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A Conversation with Rev. Prestemon
at Peace UCC Rochester
Please join us in welcoming Rev. Shari Prestemon, new Conference Minister of the Minnesota Conference United Church of Christ. Rev. Prestemon looks forward to talking with you about your local ministries and the future of the Conference. Light refreshments will be provided.
Date & Time:
January 12, 2:00 PM
Location:
Peace UCC
1503 Second Avenue NE
Rochester, MN
We'll see you there!
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Save the Date: Installation
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 Mark your calendars now and plan to attend the installation of our Conference Minister, Rev. Shari Prestemon!
Installation: Rev. Shari Prestemon
Saturday, February 1, 1:30pm
Mizpah UCC, Hopkins
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Clergy and Faith Formation Gathering
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Upcoming VRV Workshop: INSPIRING LEADERS
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Mark Your Calendars
VRV Workshop - February 5, 2014
(Registration @ 9:00am, Workshop 9:30-3:00pm)
Location: TBA
INSPIRING LEADERS
Developing Effective Congregational Leadership
Facilitator: Rev. Glenna T. Shepherd,
Center for Progressive Renewal
 Congregations will see increased commitment and vitality when we recruit leaders who can inspire others to be passionately involved in the ministries of the church.
But we often think that we must find someone - anyone - to fill established roles in the structure of the congregation. What if we change our approach and tap into the interests, skills, and passions of our people, if we instead listen deeply to the lives of the congregation and look for leadership qualities?
In this practical workshop that includes underpinning goals of faith formation and service to communities, we'll consider strategies for recruiting, training, nurturing, and developing ministry leaders.
INSPIRING LEADERS will focus on:
- Connecting ministries to the life of the whole church
- Building adaptive leaders
- Using imagination to build ministries
- Equipping leaders with the resources they need
- Inspiring vision and moving to action
We will also consider basic, but pivotal issues about qualities to look for in ministry leaders, about leadership and vision, and about building systems of communication using a variety of media.
Cost: $30.00 Includes lunch, breaks, all materials, and access to archived videos of all presentations. Teams of two or more from a congregation get to bring their pastor for free!
Can't attend on February 5? You can still access the presentations by registering for the virtual participation option. Each of the presentations will be recorded and streamed over the internet. Your virtual participation registration will get you each presentation for the cost of $15.00. You will also be able to receive the handout materials electronically.
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Learning the WAY
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 Learning The WAYUnderstanding that in the 21st century...
Christians are formed, not born
Saturday, February 8, 2014 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
@ PEACE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST
1503 2ND Avenue NE - Rochester, MN 55906
The Reverend Paul Hoffmann and Donna Linn present this workshop to help churches realize the life-giving transformation of baptism-centered communities in our post-modern and post-Christian times. Christians are formed, not born. This is a practical workshop for developing a "catechumenate", an intentional and ongoing formation for de-churched and un-churched seekers in our communities. This process is rooted in ancient practice. The word "catechumenate" derives from the meaning to be taught orally, and is the name given to the preparation of persons for baptism from the earliest centuries of Christian experience. The Reverend Paul Hoffmann, an ELCA Pastor, and Donna Linn of Seattle, Washington, share how to gather and engage people in learning what it means to follow Jesus in the world today. They present this workshop to help churches realize the life-giving transformation of baptism-centered communities in our post-modern and post-Christian times. Persons from all Christian traditions are welcome to participate. The catechumenal process translates well into a wide variety of settings and sizes of faith communities. "Learning the Way" is an ecumenical event being directly offered to ALL congregations who wish to participate. Direct financial support for this event is provided by:* Peace United Church of Christ-Rochester
* Our Saviors Lutheran Church (ELCA)-Rochester
* The Minnesota Conference United Church of Christ
* Thrivent Financial
While the workshop is open to anyone, the presenters encourage congregations to send a team consisting of pastor/clergy and three or more lay persons. Registration, which includes lunch and materials, is $20 per person. Click here for a registration form and more information. REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2014
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National Church Leadership Institute
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National Church Leadership Institute
August 2014 is closer than you think! Mark your calendars for August 7-10, 2014 for the National Church Leadership Institute 2014. The theme is Finding Our Way Again and the primary speaker all four days is Brian McLaren. It promises to be a great time and members of the Minnesota Conference can get a discount on registration. Up to 10 leaders can receive a 10% discount on registration and groups of 3 or more from the same church will receive a 25% discount on registration. Watch this space for more details as they become available.
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The Hyphenated Pastor
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The Hyphenated Pastor:
Creating Church at the Intersection
of Movements & Institutions
featuring Brian McLaren | May 12-15, 2014
Next May, the Plymouth Center for Progressive Christian Faith, in partnership with the Beatitudes Society, will bring together Christian thought-leader Brian McLaren and a select group of younger clergy (defined as under 40 and in the first seven years of parish ministry) for their latest Emerging Leaders Institute. For those whose applications are selected, this is an affordable event and a rare opportunity for ample conversational time with a visionary church leader. See the link below for general info and the application. If your application is chosen and you can commit to the entire retreat, all costs are covered after travel to Minneapolis. Please consider applying and/or sharing with others who might be eligible. Full information is here.
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Local Church Events
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Check out all the events happening at our local churches across Minnesota on our Local Church Events Calendar! You can surf around the calendar to see what's coming up across the Conference. Just click on the title of the event in the calendar to get more details.
- Wednesday, December 18: Noel at Noon, Parkway UCC, Minneapolis
- Friday, December 20: Christmas Solstice Service, St. Paul's UCC, St. Paul
- Saturday, December 21: From Darkness into Light: A Service of Hope, Community UCC, St. Paul Park
- Saturday, December 21: Longest Night/Blue Christmas Service, Faith UCC, International Falls
- Sunday, December 29: Opera on a Schtick, St. Paul's UCC, St. Paul
Would you like your events to appear on this calendar? Just email Alison Bents at alisonb@uccmn.org. Simple as that!
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Employment Opportunities
| Check out the Employment Opportunities portion of the Minnesota Conference website. Click here to see the listings.
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