By Karen Ziel, Minister of Faith Formation and Leadership for the CT Conference, UCC

It began with an invitation from my long-time friend and colleague, Ms. Debbie Gline Allen, the Consultant for Christian Education and Youth Ministry at the MA Conference, UCC.  Come along, she invited, and join me in creating an event I imagine will offer local church leaders for faith formation an opportunity to “summit”! (I’m aware I have used a verb here.)

The idea of a summit intrigued me. Imagine the possibilities! She explained that she envisioned an opportunity to gather those from our local churches who are committed to Christian formation and education.  We’ll summit for conversation, learning, mutual support and sharing. 

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Many Voices, One Mission: Love Knows No Borders

By The Rev. Kelly Gallagher, Associate Conference Minister for the MA Conference, UCC The line of 400 or more people walked quietly down the beach, 4 by 4 in a strange and fascinating procession. On a cool December day in San Diego, with signs and birds, in stoles and clergy collars, robes and bright t-shirts, this mixed posada moved slowly and deliberately toward the border between Mexico and the United States. There were people of many races, many colors, many traditions, ages, abilities and backgrounds from all over the US – people of faith gathering at this wall to bring witness and word: Love Knows No Borders.   In that group of so many were people from the Tri-Conference, in San Diego for the Authorizing Ministry for the 21st Century Conference offered every other year for ACMs and Conference Ministers to discuss common issues and best practices around Search and Call, church vitality and such. There was something powerful about sharing this time together in this place – at this border. In Connecticut, Rhode Island and Massachusetts we are seeking to break open our borders, to challenge boundaries and walls that have separated us for hundreds of years. Read more

Many Voices, One Mission is a regular series highlighting the ministries of the CT, MA, and RI Conference of the United Church of Christ.

Upcoming Events

Racial Justice Awareness Youth Program
(for confirmation groups and 7th-12th grade)
Jan. 27, 12:45 PM to 5:00 PM
Seekonk Congregational Church, Seekonk, MA
Youth & Leaders are invited to a full afternoon of a Racial Justice Awareness (RJA) Program for confirmation classes and those in 7th grade-12th grade.  Trained RJA facilitators will offer presentations including videos and guided discussions for youth to develop a strong voice as advocates of the future of change. Snacks provided; Free lunch option available.

Classifieds

Director or Assoc. Minister for Youth Ministries - Central Congregational Church UCC, Providence, RI 
Non Ordained/ Ordained Opportunity

More: ricucc.org/classifieds

Other Events of Interest

Webinar: From Climate Reports to Moral Imperatives
Jan. 9, 1:00 PM
Online
A couple of major climate reports have been released that highlight the impact of climate change on our world. To help faith communities understand the insights of these reports and the moral imperatives that arise from them, we will have three special guests: Katharine Hayhoe, Naomi Oreskes, and Jim Antal. 

Speak Peace Symposium
Feb. 2, 9:30 AM to 2:00 PM
Beneficent Congregational Church, Providence, RI
Dynamic community speakers unite to reflect and discuss the current state of affairs, and how we can contribute to establishing long-term peace and justice in our world.

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