Bi-weekly eNews - October 31, 2013
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REFLECTIONS All Saints' Day comes on Friday, November 1. Then on Sunday, November 3rd, we have an opportunity to remember the great cloud of witnesses. You know those saints that sit and work beside us and who have surprised, challenged, energized, frustrated and delighted us. Ordinary saints that don't make it to any cathedral's walls but remain in our hearts and minds. Ordinary saints that in their living and following of Jesus do extraordinary things.  Take a moment and remember some of the great cloud of witnesses. There have been new additions to that great cloud this year, and more recently in the last month: Melvina Symons, Barbara Wikoff, Carl Robinson and family members of our CCNC-N family. Our hearts ache for them and what their physical presence meant in our lives. We rejoice that we were able to share a spot of this earth with them at the same moment. This sentiment is captured as Chuck Blaisdell, Senior Pastor, First Christian Church, Colorado Springs, CO, Regional Minister-President, CCNC-N, 1997-2004, reflects on his time with Carl Robinson: "I am sure that I am not the only one who smiles at the memory of the way I was blessed by Carl Robinson's very presence. I can still feel those strong hands clasped on my shoulders and his hearty "So, how are you doing?" spoken with such genuine warmth. Carl could always make you feel like you were the only person in the room, the only reason that he came to the gathering. Every year that I was Regional Minister -- and in every year of the nine since then, he always sent me an email on my birthday. I shall miss that greeting this year. He gave life to the common wisdom that "older folks" don't "do" email-- every few months one would come to me from Carl asking how I was, asking after Barbara, wanting to know about the fires and the floods in Colorado, wanting to know how the church was doing, and more. Every Regional Minister needs a handful of folks who both bless and support his or her ministry, but also who will always "speak the truth in love," with gentle honesty and offer perspective and suggestions and constructive criticism. Carl was such a one for me and I am the better for it. Finally, I smile at the memories of Carl and Esther at Asilomar for Annual Meeting, walking slowly hand-in-hand -- and give thanks for the example and the inspiration that their love for one another has been for Barbara and me and for so many others. Carl was always one of those folks who, in ways large and small, delighted in blessing the future even when he knew he would not see that future. He delighted in that because he knew that God's gentle grace -- which he so very successfully sought to embody -- would continue to be his companion in this life and the next." Now take a moment and remember some of those ordinary, scuffy saints still living and sharing life among us. What words of encouragement and appreciation might you share with them now while they are still accompanying us on this wild, magnificent journey of faith? Thanks to all of you CCNC-N Saints for what you share and do to be good news in this world.
In grateful partnership,
Mary
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 UPCOMING REGIONAL EVENTS |
REGISTER NOW!
CLERGY RETREAT II
Wonder-fully Made We will take this time together to "wonder fully" about how we have been awefully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14) At San Damiano Retreat Center 710 Highland Dr. Danville, CA www.sandamiano.org November 10-11, 2013Registration starts at 3:00pm on Nov. 10, with community gathering starting at 4:30pm. We will conclude by 5:30pm on Mon. Cost per person: Includes 1 night and 3 meals
- $130 for shared room
- $165 for private room (if available)
- $85 for commuter (includes all 3 meals)
No shortened or part-time registration is available Some financial assistance may be available. Contact Mary at mary@ccncn.org or call 925-556-9900.
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 FALL FEST 2013
A Regional event for 6-12 graders Saturday, November 16 starting at 1:00pm; ending, Sunday, November 17 after morning worship First Christian Church 3039 Willow Pass RoadConcord, CA 94519925-685-7503Register by November 12, 2013Cost $15 per person, no early bird special Keynote, Rev. Clarence Johnson of Mills Grove Christian Church, Oakland Theme: From the New International Version of Ephesians 4: 5-6: "There is one body and one Spirit-just as you were called to one hope when you were called-one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."Learn more and registerOrder your Fall Fest "all means all" T-shirt no later than November 1.
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2013 Phon-a-thon
The Tree Is Growing!
Oh, how many times I've heard the statement, "I really love CCNC-N." No kidding. It happens quite frequently. Sometimes people use "appreciate," or "grateful for," or "am glad to be a part of." The words describing the feeling of the person speaking about our Region may vary, but the meaning is the same. As we close out the 2013 Phon-a-thon, this would be a really great time for our supporters...you who love/appreciate/etc CCNC-N...to help us reach our goal of $25,000. We are still a little short of this amount. At this point, we have received $18,655 in donations. THANK YOU! We also have another $4,000+ in pledges made but not yet received. Actually, this is pretty normal for this time of year. However, this does mean that the next few weeks would be a great time for these remaining donations to be sent in. We also have a number of previous donors who we never could reach. We tried...we really did. If you are one of these people, or someone who has never donated to the Phon-a-thon but would like to, this would be a wonderful time for CCNC-N to receive your donation also. 
To make a donation, please mail it to the Regional Officeat 9260 Alcosta Blvd., C-18, San Ramon, CA 94583 (with "Phon-a-thon" in the memo section) or click on our "Donate" button here or on the CCNC-N website. Your support for the ministries of CCNC-N is greatly appreciated. Through your generosity, the ministries of our Region will continue making a difference.
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WOMEN'S MINISTRIES
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Woman to Woman Worldwide Disciples Women/Global Missions partner pilgrimage to Mexico.
Denise Turner from our region will share about her journey at the Women's Gathering on March 8, 2014.
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REGISTRATION Now Open!
 International Women's Quadrennial Assembly, June 24-29, 2014, Atlanta, GA! "I See You" Can CCNC-N "See" at least 40 women going?? Let's imagine it!
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Disciples Women General Programs 2013 are available as a free download. You will find new programs covering Installation, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Stewardship; a special Quadrennial activity to introduce the theme of "I See You" and a link to the QA hope page; along with Bible studies on Human Trafficking and Environment; subscription and leader/study guides to the official Resource for Disciples Women, "Just Women" quarterly magazine; Tools for Leadership guide--over 100 pages of models, information and programs for Women's groups and ministries.
CCNC-N Women's Ministries Faith in Action is partnering with Bay Area Anti-Trafficking Coalition to address the tens of thousands of trafficked victims that come to town with major sporting events. Here is a note from their director:
Hi everyone, We are excited about all of the opportunities as we explore trafficking around sporting events, and we are trying to focus our efforts for this summer around things that we can effectively tackle with the resources that we have. Having said that, along with hotels, police and America's sponsors, we will have a prayer walk in SF, Saturday, August 24th, 10am.
Thank you.
Brian Wo Director of Partnerships
Bay Area Anti-Trafficking Coalition
baatc.org
facebook.com/baatc.org
@BaatcDotOrg
freedom-summit.org
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Human Trafficking Awareness
 The Super Bowl comes to Santa Clara in 2016--and along with it comes around 30,000 thousand trafficked humans! Help us be ready to Respond! "Call and Response" Movie available for showing to your group! Women's Ministries has purchased the public showing license for this 2-hour film bringing awareness to the fact that there are more people enslaved today than anytime in history, and we must respond as modern-day abolitionists! Go to http://www.disciples-faithinaction.org and click on "Media" to see the trailer or email Hope Attenhofer, faithin2action@gmail.com to apply to host a movie screening at your church or community. |
NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGION |
REGIONAL MINISTER SEARCH COMMITTEE UPDATES
1) Your Input Needed!
The latest updates from the Regional Minister Search Committee have included an invitation for you to participate in an online survey about the role and responsibilities of the Regional Minister.
The data collected from the survey will be important input as the Committee creates the Job Description and Regional Profile for the Search.
We appreciate your willingness to participate.
We will be updating you about the search process via email and by posting on the Regional website, which you can find here. In the past few weeks, a number of steps have been made to advance the search process, including posting an announcement of the position in various news resources and the launch of a survey to assess the current needs and interests of the region. On Nov. 16, the search committee will meet with the RYC to have a conversation about current needs for regional youth. Our next meeting as a search committee is Nov. 10 via teleconference. You may contact any committee member individually with questions and comments, or email the committee at rmsearch@ccncn.org
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Westminster Retreat Center is closing to the public at the end of the year.
 As a way to enjoy this beautiful building, built in 1928, we are having a 1920's, speakeasy-themed celebration. Among the entertainment offerings is a jazz combo, Jazz Gorilla, who will be playing songs from the 20s and 30s. Included in the ticket price of $40 is a dinner of heavy hors d'oeuvres and two drinks (signature cocktails, non-alcoholic mocktails, beer, or wine). Arrive and depart as your schedule allows. Period clothes are encouraged, but not required.
The event is open to everyone.
To purchase tickets (on sale until November 1st) go to: https://westminister.eventbrite.com/
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Awakening the Dreamer, Changing the Dream
The Circle Church, in collaboration other organizations is sponsoring a Pachamama symposium "Awakening the Dreamer, Changing the Dream", an interactive experience featuring insights from inspiring philosophers, scientists, activists, and presentations from local community leaders. This symposium will explore the connection between homelessness and the general health of our society, the human aspect of homelessness and what we as a community can do together in a spirit of compassion.
The Pachamama Alliance was born out of an invitation from the Achuar people of the Amazon to bring forth a new worldview that honors and sustains life. In Achuar culture dreams are a guiding principle of life. In 2005, The Pachamama Alliance launched a suite of transformative learning workshops called "Awakening the Dreamer". Thousands have discovered the value of ancient wisdom in addressing our modern crises, and their personal role in bringing forth an environmentally sustainable, spiritually fulfilling, socially just human presence on this planet.
Saturday November 9, 2013 at The Circle Church, 111 Errett Circle, Santa Cruz
Doors open at 12:30; Symposium runs from 1:00 PM to 5:30 PM
Community dinner follows at 6 PM, offered by The Circle Church.
Event is free; donations gratefully accepted
Register at http://www.pachamama.org/workshops/search/single/?event_id=1457
or email Alain: adesouches@sbcglobal.net or call 831-247-6150
http://www.pachamama.org/
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Polynesian Luau
First Samoan Congregational Christian Church of Sacramento will host another Polynesian Luau, Saturday, November 2, at Phillip Burton High School, San Francisco, CA. Time to be announced. Please contact the church for more information at 916-922-2220.
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Arts & Crafts Faire
Palo Alto FCC is hosting an arts and crafts faire to raise awareness about human trafficking and benefit survivors served by Freedom House of San Francisco.
Handmade4Handup is being held at PAFCC, November 16 from 10 am -4 pm as fundraiser for Freedom House, a San Francisco based shelter for survivors of human trafficking.
The money we hope to raise is important but education about and awareness of the issue are also goals.
We're having a silent auction as well. If you know of anyone that might like to donate or participate, please let us know.
Wanda Smith, Palo Alto FCC, 2890 Middlefield Rd. Palo Alto, CA 94306; 650-327-4188.
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Piano Player needed
First Christian Church of Vallejo is looking for a part time musician. This is a great opportunity for students or retired teachers! Residents of Solano, Napa, Contra Costa counties preferred. Applicant must be available Sunday mornings from 9:30 - Noon. Pay is up to $75.00 per Sunday, depending on experience. Please reply to this ad and attach your resume. An audition will be necessary prior to hiring. Please contact Allison Mezerra at First Christian Church, Vallejo at 707-643-7973 or email the church at www.vallejochristian.org.
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Dear Friends,
Remember to send news of new members, baptisms and blessings of children to Cliff Cole at 23mcc24x@comcast.net who then shares this news with the Regional Office. We send along a letter to each person and family to welcome them to our larger family. We want to celebrate with you and them at such times!
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CHURCHES TO HOLD IN PRAYER
Congregation to pray for this week: Forest Hill Christian Church, San Francisco, Golden Gate to Pebble Beach Area; Pastor, Susan Parsley. Congregation to pray for next week: CHAM Deliverance Ministry, San Jose, Golden Gate to Pebble Beach Area; Pastor, Scott Wagers.
We will feature two congregations in each edition of the eNews. Please pray for their vitality, spiritual and numerical growth, their commitment to serving their neighborhood and their openness to the Spirit of God calling them into ministry in the 21st century.
PLEASE PRAY FOR CHURCHES CURRENTLY IN TRANSITION
First Christian Church, Porterville
United Christian Church, Livermore
First Christian Church, San Lorenzo First Christian Church, Watsonville Sierra Christian Church, Loomis New Spirit Christian Church, Berkeley Lafayette Christian Church, Lafayette Back to top
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REGIONAL STAFF UPDATES Mary Jacobs is out of the office November 6-8 for the Disciples HOme Missions Board meeting in Indianapolis.
Due to health concerns,Sue Tarleton has resigned as the Director for Annual Gathering Planning. Sue has blessed us with her ministry in the Region
Paula and Michael Pociecha have completed (well almost) a move from San Ramon to Fort Bragg. Moving blessings on them!
Prayers of gratitude for the ministry of the Regional Staff as we enter a season of Gratitude.
The Regional Staff Retreat is scheduled for November 3 - 4. Our volunteer, Barbara Regan, will be holding the fort down until 2:00 pm and taking messages for us.
Please note the Regional Office will be closed for Veteran's Day, November 11, 2013.
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JOYS & CONCERNS & PRAYER NEEDS
We seek to update these prayers appropriately, knowing that the region lifts them up to God with great reverence. Please email enews@ccncn.org with any prayers you would like to make sure are included or continued next week and beyond. Particularly, please e-mail the names and addresses of new members so we can celebrate them here and also send them a letter of welcome from the region!
Cause for Celebration
Iglesia del Pueblo, Porterville will have an anniversary celebration on November 2 at 2 PM.
NEW MEMBERS:
United Christian Church, Fresno welcomed 9 new members.
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Cause for Prayer
Please hold the family of Carl Robinson in prayer following his recent death. He is survived by his wife, Esther and family, JoAnn Robinson and David Bean, Lois Jean Robinson, and grandson, Donovan Robinson. Details of Carl's service TBD.Cards and notes may be sent to his family at:
Esther Robinson
90 Don Antonio Way
Ojai, CA 93023
Bob Wikoff and family following the death of Barbara on October 30. Barbara's generous gift of self and music has blessed Oakdale CC and this Region. Our hearts and prayers reach out to Bob at this time. You may send cards to: Bob Wikoff & Family
941 Terrace Court
Oakdale, CA 95361
Magali Negron and family following the death and life celebration of Magali's mother in Puerto Rico.
Edgar and Janet Peck after receiving the news of Edgar's diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.
Vickie Firch as she anticipates two eye surgeries for a rare form of cataracts.
Diane Kindle, spouse of retired pastor Steve Kindle, health update:
Diane had her first good night's sleep in over a year following a sophisticated procedure recently. She still has energy issues, fading fast upon little effort. The doctors say this is not related to her heart attack or stroke, which seemed to do no harm. We thank you all for your concern and prayers, and for your friendships. Steve
Pamela Dawson, wife of Jack Dawson, Pastor of United Congregational Christian Church in Lodi, who will have surgery soon.
Venita Graggs, daughter of Mrs. Douglas LaMoyne who passed Wednesday Night after battling illness for over 5 years. Also hold to our hearts Mr. John Barnes, who suffered a stroke and is now recovering from recent heart surgery. Thank you for your prayers. Mills Grove Christian Church DOC.
Let us continue to remember Melvina Symons' life and ministry among us and surround her family with our prayers and care. Cards and notes may be sent to her family at:
544 West Andrews Ave Fresno, CA 93705
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Our prayers continue for the following who remain in need of our support and concern:
- Pastor Iopa (Job) and Meaalofa Amosa
- Donna Fletcher
- Kelsey, Tom and Shellie Warren
- Pastor Taulua Tupua
- John Dewey
- Nancy Love
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REGIONAL CALENDAR
Per requests around the region, here is a listing of regional meetings and events over the next 30 days or so.
We do not put the dates of local church events here as we never could get them all and we would always miss some!
2013
- November 2 - 8:30 AM Justice Commission phone conference meeting
- November 3-4 - Regional Staff Retreat at Amazing Grace
- November 2 - Outdoors Ministry Committee and CGC Facilities Committee meetings 9:30-1:00pm at Woodland Christian Church
- November 10-11 - 3 PM Registration - 5:30 PM Send Out, San Damiano Retreat Center, Clergy Retreat 2 "Wonder-fully Made" geared for clergy serving in pastoral ministry or specialized ministries
- November 11 - Veterans Day - Regional Office Closed
- November 16-17 - Fall Fest, "All Means All" at FCC, Concord for middle school (Chi Rho) and High school (CYF) youth
- November 23 - 10 AM - 2 PM, New Church Movement Committee meeting
- November 28-29 - Happy Thanksgiving! Regional Office Closed. May the gift of gratitude be yours!
- December 7 - 1-3 PM Regional Advent Open House in celebration of Sandhya Jha's ministry with the Region
- December 24, 2013-January 1, 2013 - Regional Office Closed. Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
2014
- January 10-12 - Pro-Reconciling-Anti-Racism Training for Regional and Congregational leaders ending with MLK Celebration and Awards
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This time of rejuvenation, relaxation and revival will be held at the Doubletree Hotel in San Diego, Calif. September 30 - October 2, 2014
Keynote Speaker, Brian McLarin has been active in networking and mentoring church planters and pastors since the mid 1980s. A prolific author, some of his recent books include "A New Kind of Christianity" which articulates 10 questions that are central to the emergence of a postmodern, post-colonial Christian faith. "Naked Spirituality," offers "simple, doable, and durable" practices to help people deepen their life with God. And "Why Did Jesus, Moses, the Buddha, and Mohammed Cross the Road? (Christian Identity in a Multi-Faith World)" explores the intersection of religious identity, inter-religious hostility, and human solidarity.
Preachers: The Rev. Dr. William L. Lee, Loudon Avenue Christian Church, in Roanoke, Virginia and Rev. Dr. Sharon E. Watkins, General Minister and President. Please follow this link for more information: http://www.disciples.org/Home/WhoWeAre/OfficeoftheGeneralMinisterandPresident/2014PastorsConference/tabid/926/Default.aspx
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Florida Disciples Invites You to...
The Senior Adult Ministry of the Christian Church in Florida is hosting their 6th cruise opportunity in May of 2014, and we are requesting your help in sharing the attached information with the Disciples in your region.
The cruise is open to Disciples, their families and friends of ALL AGES, and it will be an exciting adventure aboard one of Holland America's finest ships. The cruise will leave from Ft. Lauderdale with stops at Gloucester, MA; Bar Harbor, ME; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Sydney, Canada; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; and finally Quebec City.
If there is any way you could distribute the attached information throughout your area, it would be greatly appreciated. Typically, about 50% of our passengers are Disciples from states other than Florida! Special times of Bible Study and Worship will be offered throughout the cruise.
Any chance that you and/or some of your staff could join us?
Learn more
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PUBLISHING INFORMATION
This newsletter is published bi-weekly on Thursdays.
Please send short text only articles only...
No flyers or pdf documents which require rewriting will be accepted.
JPG images and links should be submitted as a separate attached file and
not embedded in the body of a document.
ALL news articles should be sent to enews@ccncn.org no later than the
Tuesday before publication.
Publishing schedule for balance of 2013
November 14, 28 (Thanksgiving - no publication)
December 12, 26 (Christmas - no publication)
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This communication is made possible by generosity expressed
through giving to Disciples Mission Fund!
Christian Church of Northern CA-NV
The CCNC-N is the presence of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
in the northern half of the states of California and Nevada.
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