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    Healthcare 2008

    What's working, what's not, plans for reform

    A Free and Open Public Forum
    Sunday, May 4, 2008, 2:00 pm

    Presented by Protestants for the Common Good

    Hosted by Northfield Community Church
    400 Wagner Road, Northfield 60093

    Decisions determining the future of American Healthcare may be one of the most significant outcomes of this November's election cycle. Being informed by more than publicity sound bites will help us all make better decisions.

    On May 4th at 2pm, 5 panelists will gather to discuss the current issues that connect National, State, and County policies to the health concerns of our citizens and the business concerns of our service providers.

    Our panelists will be:
  • Robert Kaestner, University of Illinois Institute of Government and Public Affairs
  • Elizabeth Coulson, Illinois State Representative
  • Larry Suffredin, Cook County Board Member
  • Chuck Lauer, Modern Healthcare Magazine
  • Al Sharp, Protestants for the Common Good

    Please join us for this free and open public forum.

    CMA Annual Spring Meeting May 3, 2008

    Saturday, May 3, 2008 - Registration Opens at 8 am
    First Church of Lombard United Church of Christ
    220 South Main Street, Lombard, IL 60148

    Theme: To Your Health!

    Greetings to Chicago Metropolitan Association clergy, laity, congregations, and UCC related community, health and educational institutions. We are called to assemble at First Church of Lombard United Church of Christ in Lombard, Illinois, on Saturday, May 3, 2008, for our Annual Spring Meeting. The Rev. Robert E. Hatfield will be our host pastor. It will be a time for worship and business, fellowship and faith-sharing.

    The day will begin with worship and move into the Annual Meeting where we will receive reports and elect and install new officers, members of the Association Council, and members of CMA Committees on Church & Ministry, Church in Society, Nominating and Staff Relations, as well as members of various Illinois Conference Committees.

    Our business agenda will include discussion of The Covenantal Relationship Between the Chicago Metropolitan Association and the Local Church.

    The day will also include a program designed by the CMA Church in Society Committee in partnership with Advocate Healthcare and the Illinois Campaign for Better Healthcare. Workshops will introduce local congregations to opportunities to participate in a Health Care Initiative promoting awareness and advocacy.

    Workshops:
  • CBHC Chutes and Ladders Game
  • Just Eating? Practicing Our Faith at the Table
  • The Night Ministry / Norma Jean Sanders Free Clinic
  • Sacred Conversations on Race

    For more information:
  • Download the complete call letter
  • Download the registration form
  • Download directions to the meeting

    You may still fax a registration form to us and pay at the door.

    Staff Changes for CMA & IL Conference

    Rita Root to be CMA Interim Co-Minister

    LETTER FROM THE ILLINOIS CONFERENCE
    January 10, 2008

    Dear Pastors, Sisters and Brothers,

    We pray that the New Year finds all of you in God's abounding grace and in good health.

    You may not know all the news of the various changes in the life, ministry and leadership of our Illinois Conference, so we want to provide you with some updates.

    God is good all the time - Including times of change.

    We give thanks to God for the faithful service and witness of our sister and former Conference Minister The Rev. Jane Fisler Hoffman. Jane has been called to serve in the California, Nevada Southern Conference of the United Church of Christ. We wish Jane God's continuous guidance and blessing in her new call.

    We also bid farewell to our brother The Rev. Michael Denton, Association Co-Minister of the Chicago Metropolitan Association. Michael accepted a call to the UCC's Pacific Northwest Conference. May God keep Michael in God's mercy and grace as he sets out to serve God in a new setting.

    The Rev. Rita Root has accepted the call to be the Interim Association Co-Minister at CMA beginning April 1, 2008. Rita is currently the Pastor of Federated United Church of Christ in Sycamore, IL in Prairie Association. She was elected President of the Illinois Conference Council in June of 2007. Rita has now resigned as Conference President effective January 1, 2008. Rita served as a faithful and effective leader. We give thanks for her leadership and for God calling her to serve in new ways in our midst. May God continue to be a blessing in her life and in her ministry.

    Harold Harmison, from Decatur, IL, has become our new Illinois Conference President. Harold has served the church at the local, association, and conference setting and was a delegate to General Synod in 2007. In his previous role as first vice-president he was very much involved in the life and ministry of our conference and in the planning of both the 2007 and the 2008 Conference Annual Meetings.

    We want to express appreciation to our Conference Council and Personnel Committee members for their confidence in entrusting The Rev. Jorge L. Morales, Illinois Associate Conference Minister, with the responsibility of acting as Conference Minister while we seek an Interim Conference Minister. Jorge looks forward to returning to his priority full time commitment of doing stewardship and new church development as Associate Conference Minister once the Interim Conference Minister is in place.

    The Illinois Conference Council and the Personnel Committee have authorized the hiring of new part-time staff to help the Conference staff during the interim search period. Help will be needed for the many tasks having to do with the general life of our Conference, for Local Evangelism and Planting/LEEAP and for stewardship. This is a very important time in securing OCWM dollars, contacting churches to send contributions, closing the books, following-up with funded LEEAP projects, preparing for the new calendar year and maintaining conversations with the national Church about Local Church Ministries funding for new and renewed church development.

    After serious consideration and conversations with Sammie Dortch, Chair of the Conference Personnel Committee, and with Rita and Harold, we've decided to contract with Mr. Larry McCure, as Stewardship Associate. Larry is a long time Eastern Association Consulting Steward who needs little training for what needs to be done.

    Ms. Kathy Groth has been contracted as a LEEAP Associate given her tenure on the LEEAP board and knowledge of the various tasks needed to be carried out. We give thanks for the gift of these two servants of Christ and their willingness to step forward and assist at this time of transition.

    We invite your continuous prayers that our service in common ministry may be pleasing to God and that the New Year may be one where God's mercy, peace and love will reign in our hearts and in our midst.

    "FOR I KNOW THE PLANS I HAVE FOR YOU," DECLARES THE LORD; "PLANS TO PROSPER YOU AND NOT TO HARM YOU; PLANS TO GIVE YOU HOPE AND A FUTURE." Jeremiah 29:11

    Harold Harmison
    Illinois Conference President

    Rev. Jorge L. Morales
    Associate Conference Minister

    Joe Evans, former UCC president, dies at 92

    Written by J. Bennett Guess
    April 13, 2008

    The Rev. Joseph H. Evans, the UCC's third president, died on April 12 at his Sarasota, Fla., home. He was 92.

    Evans, the first and only African American to serve as UCC president, spent 17 years as an elected officer of the denomination. Elected in 1967 as national secretary, he was named president of the UCC in 1976 upon the sudden death of President Robert Moss. In 1977, he returned to his position as secretary, a post he held until his retirement in 1983.

    "Joe was a leading figure in the middle years of our denomination's life," said the Rev. John H. Thomas, UCC general minister and president, in a memo to national staff. "… Our work rests on the legacy of great leaders like him."

    Evans' death came on the same day as nearly 300 members and staff of the UCC's Executive Council and four Covenanted Ministries boards of directors were gathered for joint meetings in Cleveland. Thomas and Associate General Minister Edith A. Guffey led the assembly in a time of reflection and prayer after sharing news of Evans' passing.

    Though Evans' health had been in decline, he was able to attend the UCC's 50th anniversary General Synod in Hartford last June.

    Born in Kalamazoo, Mich., Evans grew up in Chicago. He was a graduate of Western Michigan University, Yale University Divinity School and UCC-related Chicago Theological Seminary. He was ordained in 1942.

    Following a brief period as the leader of a church mission serving immigrants from Barbados in Brooklyn, N.Y., Evans served as the pastor of Grace Congregational Church in Harlem, where he met and married his wife, Harriette. The two were married for 63 years and had three daughters.

    Early in his ministry, Evans served as associate general secretary for the Connecticut Council of Churches, where he ministered to migrant farm workers and youth. He went on to lead Mount Zion Congregational UCC in Cleveland, before returning to pastor his home church, Church of the Good Shepherd UCC in Chicago, where he also served a four-year term as president of the Chicago Urban League. Upon retirement, he continued to serve as interim pastor at several churches in Ohio, Illinois, Maine, New Hampshire and Massachusetts.

    UCC National Restructuring Talks

    National boards creep closer to single body, but future of deliberations uncertain

    Written by Andy Lang and Ben Guess
    April 15, 2008

    The boards of the UCC's Executive Council and four Covenanted Ministries moved closer to agreement on a single governing body for the church's national setting, although a dispute over the size and composition of the new board remains unresolved and the timeline and mechanisms for future deliberations remain uncertain.

    During four days of meetings in Cleveland, the Executive Council and three of the four Covenanted Ministry boards - Local Church Ministries, Wider Church Ministries and Justice and Witness Ministries - voted on April 12 to approve an amended proposal for governance reform. The Office of General Ministries board withheld approval, but also signaled readiness to work further on remaining disagreement.

    Read the complete story here.

    Rita Root Comes to CMA

    The Rev. Dr. Rita Root became CMA's new Interim Association Co-Minister on April 1, 2008, replacing The Rev. Michael Denton, who had moved to Seattle to become Conference Minister of the Pacific Northwest Conference of the UCC.

    Rita will assume responsibility for churches in three clusters, namely Clusters One, Three and Four.

    Rita can be reached at the CMA office (312-939-5918) or at her new CMA email address: ritaroot@cmaucc.org.

    Please extend a warm welcome to Rev. Dr. Rita Root. You will have an opportunity to meet her at a variety of CMA, cluster and Church functions in coming months.
    WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30: COMMUNITY RENEWAL SOCIETY 125th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

    CRS 125th Anniversary Celebration and Awards Luncheon will be held on Wednesday, April 30, 2008 from 12:00 noon until 1:30 PM at the Chicago Fairmont Hotel, 200 North Columbus Drive in Chicago.

    With Special Guest New York Times columnist Bob Herbert.

    Honoring:

    Sandra P. Guthman, President, Board of Directors, Polk Bros. Foundation

    Jesse H. Ruiz, Chairman, Ill. State Board of Education and Partner, Drinker Biddle

    Rev. Ozzie E. Smith, Pastor, Covenant United Church of Christ

    Special Guest BOB HERBERT joined The New York Times as an Op-Ed columnist in June 1993. He writes about politics, urban affairs and social trends in a twice-weekly column.

    From January 1991 to May 1993, Mr. Herbert was a national correspondent for NBC and reported regularly on The Today Show and NBC Nightly News.

    A founding panelist of Sunday Edition, a weekly discussion program on WCBS-TV, Mr. Herbert was also the host of Hotline, a weekly hour-long issues program on WNYC-TV, both beginning in 1990.

    Previously, Mr. Herbert worked at The Daily News beginning in 1976. His positions at The Daily News included general assignment reporter, national correspondent, consumer affairs editor, city hall bureau chief and city editor. In 1985, he became a columnist and a member of the Editorial Board. His column continued to appear in The Daily News until February 1993.

    His career began in 1970 as a reporter, then night city editor in 1973, of The Star-Ledger in Newark, NJ.

    Born in Brooklyn, Mr. Herbert earned a Bachelor of Science degree in journalism from the State University of New York (Empire State College). He has taught journalism at Brooklyn College and the Columbia University School of Journalism.

    He has won numerous awards, including the Meyer Berger Award for coverage of New York City, the American Society of Newspaper Editors award for distinguished newspaper writing, and the Peter Kihss award of the New York Society of The Silurians for distinguished contribution to American journalism.

    Mr. Herbert is the author of Promises Betrayed: Waking Up from the American Dream, (Times Books, 2005).

    Mr. Herbert is married and lives in Manhattan.

    Contact: Community Renewal Society, 332 S. Michigan Ave - Suite 500, Chicago, Illinois 60604; Tel: 312-427-4830; Fax: 312-427-6130; Email: info@communityrenewalsociety.org

    SUNDAY, APRIL 27: HOLLY NEAR, EMMA'S REVOLUTION & VOICES CONCERT AT WELLINGTON UCC

    Holly Near, emma's revolution and VOICES: three of today's leading musical forces for social change and pure listening pleasure will grace Wellington Avenue UCC for an evening that will energize and transform you.

    Sunday April 27, 2008; Tickets $25; Show starts at 7 pm; Doors open at 6:30 pm; Refreshments will be available for purchase.

    For tickets online go to: www.waucc.org or call 773-935-0642.

    Reduced-Price Tickets: please inquire about availability of a limited amount of reduced-price tickets. If you can afford to pay a little more, we will use your generous contribution to cover those tickets.

    Parking: There are several parking lots close by, but street parking is difficult. We encourage you to walk, bike, or take public transportation. We are easily accessed by the Brown, Red and Purple CTA trains, or the Clark and Broadway buses.

    Wellington Avenue United Church of Christ
    615 W. Wellington Ave.
    Chicago, IL 60657

    www.hollynear.com
    www.emmasrevolution.com

    THURSDAY & FRIDAY, APRIL 24 & 25: CMA BOUNDARY TRAINING WORKSHOP

    The next CMA Boundary Training Workshop will be held Thursday and Friday, April 24 and 25, 2008 at the CMA office in downtown Chicago. Boundary Training is now required of all clergy with standing in CMA and all those In Care with CMA. This program will be open to both groups.

    CMA boundary training uses the current Faith Trust Institute video-based curriculum plus a variety of supplemental materials. This current boundary training curriculum was first offered in January 2005. If you took CMA boundary training before 2005, you will have to take it again based on the new curriculum. This CMA training is accepted throughout the Illinois Conference. Other UCC conferences may or may not accept this training.

    At this point, CMA boundary training need only be taken once, so if you have taken the training with CMA after 2004 and received a certificate, you do not need to sign up again. Refresher courses may be offered in the future.

    Each program will begin promptly at 9:00 am sharp on both days. Please plan to arrive by 8:45 am. You must be on time. The program concludes at 5:00 pm on the first day and 4:00 pm on the second day.

    The CMA office is located at 332 S. Michigan Ave, Suite 510, Chicago, IL, which is convenient for all public transportation. There is ample lower cost parking in the Grant Park South Garage, the south end of which is located right in front of our building. You enter the garage from an entrance lane on the left side of northbound Michigan Avenue immediately north of Van Buren Street.

    YOU MUST ATTEND ALL DAY BOTH DAYS TO RECEIVE CREDIT FOR THESE TRAININGS.

    The registration fee is $30 for clergy and $10 for In Care. The fee includes all meals and materials both days.

    Send your registration form and check (payable to CMA) to the CMA office. Attendance is limited to 16 participants. A Registration Form can be DOWNLOADED HERE.

    We believe this training will greatly enhance your effectiveness in ministry and be a blessing to you and the people you serve. If you have any questions about the training, please contact Rev. Edward Goode or Rev. Michael Denton at CMA at 312-939-5918.

    Future Boundary Training dates are:

  • Thursday and Friday, June 12 and 13. 2008

    This future event will also be held at the CMA office in downtown Chicago, and will also be open to those In Care and those with standing.



    SUNDAY, APRIL 20: REV CHARLENE HILL INSTALLATION AT GOOD NEWS COMMUNITY CHURCH

    The Rev. Charlene Hill will be installed as Pastor of Good News Community Church, 7649 N. Paulina Street, Chicago, IL 60626, on Sunday, April 20, 2008 at 3:30pm. Everyone is invited to attend.

    SATURDAY & SUNDAY, APRIL 19 & 20: WORSHIP ALIVE! WORKSHOP

    Roots & Wings for Transformative Worship

    Elise Eslinger will lead this workshop on April 19th or 20th as part of the Worship Alive! series. Eslinger is the founding director of the Institute for Applied Theology at United Theological Seminary in Dayton. With a liturgical ministries background, she has served on national United Methodist staff as Director of Worship and Culture and was on the founding leadership team of the Upper Room Academy for Spiritual Formation. She compiled and edited the Upper Room Worshipbook (1985) and a new, expanded version in 2007.

    Eslinger's workshop will explore music and liturgies that are generationally and culturally hospitable: patterns for Daily Prayer and the Eucharist, Psalm-Songs, Healing Prayer, sung prayer of Taize and Iona communities, global songs and new hymns texts in a lively variety of musical expressions. This workshop will be a singing, dancing, and prayerful journey through the new Upper Room Worshipbook, a unique, transformative resource for congregations, small groups, choir, retreats and conferences.

    This workshop will be offered twice: on Saturday, April 19th, at the Presbyterian Church of Western Springs, and on Sunday, April 20th, at the United Church of Rogers Park. The workshop runs from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. each day.

    Cost of the workshop is $35 in advance; $45 at the door. Groups of 3 or more from the same congregation get a 20% discount. More details, including registration information, is available by calling 773-728-8274 or at: www.ucrogerspark.org/worshipalive.

    The Worship Alive! workshops are for clergy, musicians, seminarians, and lay persons of all denominations who are involved in planning and leading worship. The series is co-sponsored by the Northern Illinois Conference (United Methodist Church), Presbytery of Chicago, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, McCormick Theological Seminary and Seabury-Western Theological Seminary.

    TUESDAY-FRIDAY, APRIL 15-18: 2008 CONGRESS ON URBAN MINISTRY

    2008 Congress on Urban Ministry: God's Reign in Our Cities

    Sponsored by the Seminary Consortium for Urban Pastoral Education (SCUPE)

    Join the action at the 15th biennial Congress on Urban Ministry at the Fourth Presbyterian Church in Chicago, Illinois.

    Congress Features:

    Community Transformation Research Summit:
    The Research Summit will meet in conjunction with the Congress and bring together urban practitioners and researchers to improve the impact of Christian community ministries through participatory research.

    Caucus for Action:
    On both Wednesday and Thursday afternoons of the Congress, the 3:00 p.m. time slot will be given over to a “Caucus for Action.” On Wednesday, Congress Co-chair Mary Nelson will lead us in focusing on important opportunities and tools for action. Then on Thursday afternoon, caucus groups will focus on sharing opportunities for action within selected topics: work, health care, the environment, immigration, housing and finances. Action ideas will arise that you can take back to change your community.

    Graduate Course for Seminary Credit:
    Good News for the City, taught by Bill Wylie-Kellermann, Detroit pastor, faculty member (SCUPE's Graduate Theological Urban Studies program). If you are interested in tuition and details, please contact the SCUPE Registrar, Dody Finch at dody@scupe.com.

    Congress Workshops:
    More than 50 stimulating and informative workshops are planned for the Congress. Topics include: the urban church's response to the war in Iraq, a response to violence in our cities, ministry for ex-offenders in our communities, and starting and building a not-for-profit corporation. Both national and local workshop presenters will be joining us to explore how God's reign in our cities impacts the strategies we use for ministry. Expect a wide variety of choices, some workshops occurring out in Chicago's neighborhoods.

    Take advantage of Early Bird Prices. Register OnLine. Signup to get the latest information about the Congress on Urban Ministry. Visit the Congress Website Here.

    Sponsored by the Seminary Consortium for Urban Pastoral Education (SCUPE), where we think prophetically and imaginatively about the direction of our global civilization as evidenced in our cities.

    (Posted 07/25/07 - 4-16-08)
    PASTOR, EPIPHANY UCC, CHICAGO, IL

    This church currently has placed a HOLD ON PROFILES. Please check back to see if additional profiles are requested again in the future (02/26/08).

    Epiphany United Church of Christ, A Home for the Urban Spirit, is a warm and welcoming church with a deep sense of history and respect for the stories and traditions of those who came before us. We have a strong social conscience and have generously supported a wide array of missions including OCWM, a Romanian Mission, the Heifer Project, and provided financial, in-kind, and personal support along with two furnished apartments for Katrina families. Epiphany is an Open and Affirming church and an accepting community that has been and is continuing to grow by leaps and bounds. It is our strong collective desire to find a candidate with a charismatic pulpit presence, whose preaching will inspire discussion, reflection, and action. Our members have become accustomed to substantive preaching, creative personal attention, and consistent support for our lay initiatives. We have many abilities, giving hearts, and a tremendous energy that will continue to help us to do great things in the eyes of God. www.epiphany-ucc.org.

  • Current Membership: 190
  • Average Attendance at Worship: 135
  • Compensation: Conference Guidelines; we are willing to be flexible in the mix of salary and benefits, depending on the candidate's needs.

    If you would like your profile forwarded to Epiphany UCC, please contact the CMA office at 312-939-5918 or cma@cmaucc.org

    (Updated 6/29/07; Posted 09/6/06 - 4/16/08)
    SENIOR PASTOR: PEACE MEMORIAL CHURCH, Palos Park, Illinois

    Peace Memorial Church in Palos Park, Illinois, is seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic Senior Pastor who will use their talents and gifts to lead us forward for generations to come.

    Interested persons should contact Diane at doremovich@peacevillage.org. Compensation: Conference guidelines

    SUNDAY, APRIL 13: REV JEAN DARLING INSTALLATION AT THE PEOPLES CHURCH

    The Peoples Church of Chicago is delighted to invite you to the Installation of The Rev. Jean Darling as our New Congregational Development Minister on April 13, 2008; Reception 1:00 pm; Installation 2:00 pm; at The Peoples Church of Chicago, 941 W. Lawrence, Chicago, Illinois 60640-8319

    Everyone is invited. All clergy and religious educators are invited to Robe (liturgical color is red) and Process. The Peoples Church is dually aligned with the Unitarian Universalist Association and the United Church of Christ.

    SUNDAY, APRIL 13: REV ANDREA LASTICLY INSTALLATION AT COVENANT UCC

    The Rev. Andrea Mason Lasticly will be installed as Associate Pastor of Covenant United Church of Christ, 1130 E. 154th Street, South Holland, IL 60473, on Sunday, April 13, 2008 at 3:00pm. Everyone is invited to attend.

    SATURDAY, APRIL 12: REV DAN DALE INSTALLATION AT WELLINGTON UCC

    The Rev. Dan Dale will be installed by CMA as the Pastor of Wellington Avenue United Church of Christ in Chicago on Saturday, April 12, 2008. The installation service will begin at 5:30 PM at the Church and will be followed by a fundraising dinner at 7:00 PM with Andean music that will continue until 10 PM.

    The installation service will also be preceded by a reception at 4:30 PM (salsa and sangria) at the Church.

    Wellington Avenue UCC is an Open and Affirming church located at 615 West Wellington Avenue, Chicago 60657; 773-935-0642; www.wellingtonaveucc.org

    SUNDAY, APRIL 6: CELEBRATE DR. QUENTIN YOUNG WITH PROTESTANTS FOR THE COMMON GOOD

    Join Protestants for the Common Good in a Celebration of Dr. Quentin Young, Prophet and Activist for Health, Civil Liberties, and Peace, as he receives The Annual William Sloane Coffin Award for Justice and Peace at this year's annual William Sloane Coffin Dinner.

    This tribute and dinner benefits the ongoing work of Protestants for the Common Good and will be held:

    Sunday, April 6th, 5:30 - 9:00 pm

    Ida Noyes Hall at The University of Chicago, 1212 E. 59th Street, Chicago IL 60637

    Contact Meghan Strell in the PCG office with any questions at 312-223-9544 ex 231 or by email at: Mstrell@thecommongood.org

    To Register CLICK HERE.

    FRIDAY & SATURDAY, APRIL 4 & 5: EVERYTHING MUST CHANGE TOUR COMES TO OAK PARK

    Everything Must Change: Jesus, Global Crises, and a Revolution of Hope, a book by Brian McLaren

    Author Brian McLaren will talk about his new book and talk about the ways people of faith can help change the world at First United Church of Oak Park, 848 Lake Street, Oak Park, IL 60301, on Friday evening, April 4, and Saturday April 5.. Through conversation, presentation, art, music and reflection, McLaren will explore how the way of Jesus can bring transformation in our contemporary world - locally, nationally and globally - beginning with us, beginning now.

    Brian McLaren is an author, speaker, pastor and networker among innovative Christian leaders, thinkers and activists. McLaren was named by Time Magazine as one of America’s 25 most influential Evangelicals, described as a paradigm shifter capable of bringing liberals and conservatives together.

    McLaren’s book summarizes recent literature on global crises and presents a systemic approach, identifying their interlocking crises relating to the planet, poverty, and peace-making. At the center is the fourth crisis, which McLaren asserts, is a failure of our world’s religions to provide a message capable of motivating people to address the first three crises.

    "This tour represents a chance to bring this important message to Americans around the country," McLaren explains. "It will be a highly interactive, multi-media, participatory experience of teaching, visual art, prayer, music, conversation, reflection and more. A wide range of denominations is participating, Catholic and Protestant, Mainline and Evangelical, along with plenty of ‘spiritual but not religious’ people, too."

    The Everything Must Change weekend in Oak Park begins Friday, April 4, at 6 p.m. and continues Saturday, April 5, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission (purchased before Feb. 29) is $99. Admission purchased between March 1 and April 3 is $109. Students with an ID are admitted for $79. Go online to register and to get directions to First United Church at www.deepshift.com.

    For more information contact Rev. Mamie Broadhurst, Associate Pastor at First United Church, at 708-386-5215 or by email at mamie@firstunitedoakpark.com

    APRIL 5 - 12: HANDS ON NEW ORLEANS MISSION TRIP

  • Registration deadline: February 28, 2008

    Our help is still very much needed! As the fifth largest body of churches in the United Church of Christ, we of CMA should be able to provide the fifth largest amount of help to those whose lives are still scattered across the Gulf Coast. We have a way to go, but we can do this!

    Our past trips have been rich and rewarding times. Ask any of those who were there! We put up drywall, painted, wired telephones, and tiled and grouted floors. And, we did those things without having any special skills. We went with open hearts and eager hands that enabled us to learn new skills. (We also had some good teachers.)

    But more important than fixing walls, floors and doors, we helped heal lives that had come close to being destroyed.

    Our government has provided only minimal physical help, and nothing in the way of leadership. They have written off most of the people of New Orleans, casting them aside as though they were just a bunch of plastic grocery bags.

    Once home to 425,000 or so, New Orleans is now home to only about 140,000. Most of it’s residents have not returned from all of the places to which they were forced to run for fear of being swept away by the furious forces of Hurricane Katrina.

    The good news is that if you wanted to add your hands and heart to those in distress, you still can! We have reserved three additional dates over the next fourteen months so that all of you who didn’t get to go this past May, can go. Go get your hands dirty and know the joy of watching someone get their home and their life back.

    There is no shortage of people who would like to return to their former homes, or homesites. (Many homes simply disappeared in the onslaught of water.)

    THERE IS A SHORTAGE OF PEOPLE TO DO THE WORK.

    Here are the dates for the next trips:

  • Hands On New Orleans III: April 6 - April 12, 2008
    Registration deadline: February 28, 2008

  • Hands On New Orleans IV: September 14 - 20, 2008
    Registration deadline: July 31, 2008

    Each group will consist of twenty (20) volunteers.

    Housing in New Orleans will be at St. Paul UCC, at 600 Eleonore Street, in the beautiful old Garden District of the city.

    All other details regarding your participation are included in your volunteer packet.

    To obtain your packet contact:

    Roger Dart
    rcdart@comcast.net
    847-945-6015

    Rev. Ben McNeal
    aandbmcn@msn.com
    708-447-0309

    Rev. Bob Tripp
    rjtripp@ameritech.net
    815-479-1308

    Download Flyer Here


    CTS Ministerial Institute - April 1 & 2

    Theology in the Public Square

    Throughout history, the prophetic voice of the church has created, influenced, and inspired public debates and movements, lending moral authority, courageous leadership, and organizational power to movements and struggles over such things as abolition, women’s suffrage, civil rights, abortion, and same-sex marriage - and usually the church has been present on both sides of any given issue. In the 2004 election, religious affiliation and attendance were better predictors of a person’s vote than standard demographic information such as age, gender, and income! As of July 2006, Americans were roughly divided over whether churches should or should not speak out on political matters. In short, that religion and theology are in the public square is not in doubt.

    Just how theology should be in the public square, however, and how the church and other religious organizations can and should contribute to the debate, is a matter for discussion. Ministerial Institute 2008, Theology in the Public Square, will be exploring these vital questions. Featuring keynote addresses and workshops by such luminaries as Susan Brooks Thistlethwaite, Timothy Ahrens, and Dan Schultz, we will ask how the church can create forums for the responsible contribution of theology to public debate.

    Ministerial Institute 2008 will be held on April 1 and 2 in the main buildings of Chicago Theological Seminary, 5757 S. University Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637. Registration for the event is $100 and includes entrance to all Ministerial Institute events, plus lunch on the first, and breakfast and lunch on the second. Register by downloading the registration form and mailing that in with your check, or register online through PayPal. Information and forms are available HERE.

    What is Ministerial Institute?

    Since 1866, Alumni and friends of Chicago Theological Seminary have come together occasionally to resume their old discussions, review their experiences, compare notes, submit to their teachers the new questions which have arisen in practical life, and in all expedient ways to re-fit themselves for their work. While this ongoing process of learning and refreshment has taken many incarnations, many forms, and many names, Ministerial Institute retains the tradition of life-long education and exploration at Chicago Theological Seminary by inviting all who are able to join us for two days of questioning and teaching so that we might transform the world into a place of greater justice and mercy.

    Applications for Rev. Reuben Sheares Scholarship

    Advocate Health Care is now accepting applications for the Rev. Reuben A. Sheares, II, Scholarship. The $2,500 scholarship is awarded to an outstanding African-American student who is a member of a UCC or ELCA church and who is pursuing a career in a health profession. The purpose of the scholarship is to nurture leaders in health care who will work out of their faith commitments and values.

    The application deadline is Tuesday, April 1, 2008.

    If you would like more information on this opportunity including the complete list of eligibility and application requirements, please contact Lynn Rolseth at lynn.rolseth@advocatehealth.com or by phone at 630-990-5391 or by regular mail to: Lynn Rolseth, Mission & Spiritual Care Department, Advocate Health Care, 2025 Windsor Drive, Oak Brook, IL, 60523.
    SUNDAY, MARCH 30: REV. BRENDA BURNEY INSTALLATION

    The Rev. Brenda Burney will be installed as Pastor of St. Paul-Good Shepherd Church, 480 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest, IL 60466, on Sunday, March 30 at 4:00 pm.

    The Rev. Dr. Yvonne Delk, former Executive Director of the Community Renewal Society, will be the preacher.

    Everyone is invited. Clergy are invited to robe and process; please assemble at 3:40 pm; the liturgical color is red.

    The Passing of Brother Tryon Smith

    Homegoing Services for our Brother Tyron Smith will be held this Friday, March 28, 2008 at his church, Trinity United Church of Christ, 400 West 95th St, Chicago 60628 (773-962-5650).

    There will be a wake from 5:00 - 6:00 pm. The service will be from 6:00 - 7:00 pm. Pastor Otis Moss III is planning to officiate.

    Brother Tyron Smith passed away on Easter Sunday morning, March 23, 2008 after a brief illness. His was a stalwart spirit of gentle voice and strong faith.

    Tyron was am active member of the CMA Church in Society Committee as well as our Nominating Committee, and had recently led two mission trips to New Orleans. He was also serving as a member of the LEEAP Committee and Outdoors Ministry Board for the Illinois Conference.

    Please hold his wife Margaret and the Smith family in your prayers, that God may comfort and strengthen them at this time of sorrow. We thank God for Tyron's active and generous support of the church and its work.

    (Posted through March 24, 2008)
  • Church Organist Needed: Eden United Church of Christ is looking for an organist who can be available for Holy Week services and a permanent part-time organist/music director. (We have a M.P. Moeller Opus 5426 Pipe Organ). The permanent part-time position is open to an organist and/or people who are interested in exploring a wider range of music that goes beyond the pipe organ. Please contact Pastor Jim Benn at 773-283-8251 or by email: jbbenn@earthlink.net
    ONE GREAT HOUR OF SHARING
    Special Mission Offering
    There is still time to contribute.
  • Good Friday: March 21
  • EASTER: March 23
    SUNDAY, MARCH 9, 2008: ANDREA LASTICLY ORDINATION

    CMA will Ordain Andrea Mason Lasticly to the Christian Ministry on Sunday, March 9, 2008 at 4:00 PM at Church of the Good Shepherd, 5700 S. Prairie Avenue, Chicago 60637 (773-684-6561).

    All clergy, church members and friends in CMA are encouraged to attend.

    HISTORY AND POLITY OF THE UCC

    This 2008 course will explore the history, polity and theology of the United Church of Christ. As a result of this course, students will be faithful, critical and enthusiastic interpreters of the United Church of Christ, more fully equipped to provide authorized leadership in its congregations and ministries. This study of UCC History and Polity satisfies all current UCC requirements.

    Course Dates:
  • Feb. 29 - Mar. 1, 2008
  • April 18 -19, 2008
  • May 9 - 10, 2008

    You must attend all three weekends to receive full credit. All sessions will be held at Pilgrim Park.

    All Friday Sessions: 7:00 - 9:30 P.M.
    All Saturday Sessions: 8:00-Noon and 1:00-4:00 P.M.

    REGISTRATION DEADLINE: February 1, 2008

    Download the flyer and registration form HERE.

    WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5, 2008: LGBTQ SAFE ZONE TRAINING AT UIC

    The University of Illinois at Chicago is proud to participate in the Safe Zone program. Safe Zone is a training designed to heighten awareness of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) issues and concerns.

    Safe Zone is offered bi-annually and is designed to put a human face on human issues. Safe Zone 101 is primarily presented in lecture format, but activities and interactive discussion are also incorporated into the presentation.

    ALL UIC Students, Faculty and Staff are encouraged to attend this University-sanctioned training, and others are welcome to attend.

    Safe Zone's Objectives are:

    1. Providing factual information and correcting misinformation on the topics of sexual and gender identity;
    2. Recognizing problems in the environment that affect LGBT individuals;
    3. Identifying policies and laws relevant to LGBT concerns;
    4. Identifying and discussing strategies to reduce hostility toward LGBT folks;
    5. Acquiring skills and information for making appropriate referrals;
    6. Raising awareness of the negative impact of homophobia and heterosexism on all people;
    7. Defining terminology on the subject of sexual and gender identity.

    The Spring Safe Zone presentation will be on the west side of campus on Wednesday, March 5, 2008; 2:00-4:30 p.m. in the Student Center West, Chicago Room A (2nd floor), 828 South Wolcott Street, West Campus, Chicago.

    To register CLICK HERE.

    Please register no later than Monday, 5:00 p.m., March 3, 2008.

    Displaying Safe Zone items only marks you as a person who supports the GLBTQ community. Most Safe Zone members are heterosexual but do not feel that being identified as GLBTQ is something "bad." For most people, the Safe Zone stickers and magnets identify them as compassionate, open-minded people who are willing to listen to people's concerns about GLBTQ issues.

    Safe Zone originated at UIC in 2001 through the generous support of the Provost Office; Campus Housing; Chancellor's Committee on the Status of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Issues; and Office of GLBT Concerns. This spring's training is also co-sponsored with the Office of the Provost; the Chancellor's Committee on the Status of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Issues, and LGBT People in Medicine.

    For more information, please contact Dr. Patrick Finnessy at (312) 413-9862 or at pkfinn@uic.edu or browse the following Web site: www.glbc.uic.edu.

    Herry Mukdani Ecclesiastical
    Council - March 3

    On behalf of the Chicago Metropolitan Association, Cluster 6 will host an Ecclesiastical Council on Monday, March 3 at the Church of the Good Shepherd to examine Dr. Herry Mukdani's call to the Christian Ministry. Herry, a member of the United Church of Hyde Park, has been called by Universitas Ma Chung in Jawa, Timur, Indonesia to be a Lecturer. Dr. Mukdani has a Ph.D in theology from the Chicago Theological Seminary.

    His ordination paper "Always Becoming Someone New" is posted on the CMA website and can be downloaded HERE.

    Dean Georgetta Cooper will convene the regular Cluster 6 Meeting at 6:30 pm at the Church of the Good Shepherd, 5700 S. Prairie Ave. Please RSVP to 773-684-6561 if you plan to enjoy the dinner preceding the Ecclesiastical Council.

    OCWM Giving for Church Operations was up in 2007

    Acting Conference Minister Jorge Morales has reported on local church giving to Our Church's Wider Mission for 2007.

    (Our Church's Wider Mission is the name of the annual basic support offering given by each member church of the UCC to fund the operations of the Chicago Metropolitan Association, the Illinois Conference in Westchester, IL, and the national offices of the United Church of Christ in Cleveland.)

    The OCWM budgeted/projected income figure was $2,055,000

    Final figures show OCWM receipts for 2007 to be $1,937,526

    The 2006 OCWM income figure was $1,916,085

    You'll notice that we raised $21,0441 more OCWM dollars in 2007 than in 2006, but did not meet the budget goal.

    Mission Friends was budgeted at $32,000 and total income is at $59,080.

    Early figures shore a $37,172 negative/minus in expenses over income.
    SUNDAY, MARCH 2: CLUSTER TWO MEETING

    The next meeting of CMA Cluster #2 Churches will be on Sunday, March 2, at 1:30 pm at Bethany UCC, 4250 N. Paulina, Chicago.

    The meeting will include presentations by Jason Coulter, Director, Center for Christian Leadership, Chicago Theological Seminary, and by Rev. Mark Wendorf, Program Coordinator, Interfaith Council for the Homeless. Each speaker will present a proposal to Cluster #2 for a way that our churches can work together. We will have a time of discussion after each presentation.

    Election of Cluster #2 Officers. If you have an interest or know someone who is interested in serving the cluster in this way (participation by laity is especially prized), please contact Wayne MacPherson, Dean of Cluster #2 at 773-281-6480 or at revwayne@bucc-chicago.org

    SATURDAY, MARCH 1: WOMEN'S WELLNESS WORKSHOP

    The Wellness Ministry and the Women's Fellowship of the First Church of Lombard, in cooperation with the Parish Nursing Ministry of Advocate Health Care, will host their second annual Women's Wellness Workshop, an all-day wholistic health conference for women of all ages.

    The workshop will be on Saturday, March 1, 2008, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at First Church of Lombard UCC, 220 S. Main St, Lombard, IL 60148.

    For more information including a full schedule and how to register, download the flyer HERE.

    SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 24 - SUNDAY, MARCH 2: CELEBRATION FOR JEREMIAH WRIGHT

    You are cordially invited to the 36th Anniversary and Retirement Celebration for The Rev. Dr. Jeremiah A. Wright, Jr., Senior Pastor of Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago.

    Sunday, February 24 - Sunday, March 2, 2008

    Trinity United Church of Christ, 400 W. 95th Street, Chicago, IL 60628; 773-962-5650.

    Visit the Trinity UCC website for the complete program and details at: www.tucc.org

    FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 29: BOWEN FAMILY SYSTEMS THEORY WORKSHOP

    The Tenth Annual Day of Workshops to learn more about Clinical Application of Bowen Family Systems Theory will be held Friday, February 29, 2008, at First Presbyterian Church of Evanston, 1427 Chicago Av, Evanston, Illinois 60201.

    Rev. Bill Ressl, MDiv, MSW, Co-Pastor of Trinity Community Church, UCC in Berwyn, IL and PhD Student at Chicago Theological Seminary, will be one of several presenters.

    A complete registration brochure, providing information on all the presentations and specifics for registering, can be downloaded HERE.

    The Workshop is sponsored by the Center for Family Consultation in Evanston, IL, and the Family Service Center in Wilmette, Illinois

    Ressl will present: Exploring Emotional and Spiritual Shock Waves: A 25+ Year Slice of Death, Illness, and Spiritual Awakening. The presentation explores the idea of emotional shock waves and their ramifications. Bowen recommended checking for the emotional shock wave in all family histories. Any human problem or death becomes the stimulus for physical, emotional, and/or social dysfunctions. Recognizing the relationship of these events is vital knowledge for treatment but is difficult to discern as families camouflage their connectedness.

    TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 26: BLACK HISTORY MONTH MEDICAL FORUM

    In recognition of Black History Month, Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center (836 West Wellington Avenue in Chicago) will sponsor a forum on Tuesday, February 26, 2008, in Olson Auditorium from 12:00 noon until 12:45 p.m. on two key issues facing the African American Community.

    We are delighted to have two AIMMC physicians presenting topics:

  • Laura Concannon, M.D. (Internal Medicine) will be speaking on Hypertension & Diabetes in the African American Community.

  • Traci Beck, M.D. (Urologist) will be speaking on Cancer and Urology

    The forum is open to all AIMMC associates, as well as the community. There will be a reception following the forum. For further information, contact 773-296-5005.

    SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 24: BOOK SIGNING AT PARK MANOR

    The Honorable Dorothy Tillman, Timuel Black, Peter Ascoli, Mary Peterson and Erin Mitchell we be at a Book Signing by Local Authors Event at The Congregational Church of Park Manor, 7000 S King Dr, Chicago, on Sunday, Feb 24 from 12 noon to 2:30 pm.

    The public is invited to share in this historic event: The Honorable Dorothy Tillman will unveil her newly released book to the Park Manor Community for the first time. Join us in reception immediately after worship.

    FRIDAY-SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22-24: CONFIRMATION WEEKEND AT PILGRIM PARK

    WHO: Any Confirmation Students and the pastors or a church representative.

    WHEN: February 22-24, 2008. Registration is from 6:30-7:00 p.m. on the 22nd and the program ends on the 24th by 10 a.m.

    WHAT: A weekend designed to expand beyond the local church; hands-on experiences will help the Confirmands to fully understand the missions and work of the wider church and global ministries, as well as, what is happening in the Illinois Conference.

    Friday night we’ll get acquainted over snacks, with introductory games and banner making; the evening concludes with Vespers in the Chapel. Three workshops will be presented on Saturday morning that everyone rotates through. One final workshop will be held in the afternoon, with free time following. A wrap-up evening activity (this year it will be Journeying Where We’ve Never Gone Before, a.k.a. Travels With my Apostle) which will be followed by a candle-lit walk to worship on Vesper Point (weather permitting). A closing worship lead by the students will conclude the weekend on Sunday morning.

    WHERE: Pilgrim Park Camp, Princeton, IL

    DIRECTORS: Rev. Carol Currier-Frighetto and Rev. Barbara Lohrbach

    COST: $115 per person with 1 adult free for every 6 youth

    Registrations are due by February 1. Download Flyer & Registration Form HERE

    For further information, contact the Outdoor Ministries Office at 815-447-2390 or by email at: Registrar@il-odm.org.

    (Posted 04/27/07 - 02/19/08)
    PASTOR: FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF DES PLAINES, IL

    First Congregational Church of Des Plaines is a vibrant community of faith located in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. Founded in 1869, we are a warm, welcoming church rich in history and tradition. Our congregation highly values our ministerial leadership, youth education and programs, community involvement, worship and fellowship. We are a friendly church striving to serve God and meet the spiritual needs of our congregation through worship, fellowship and community service.

    We seek a full-time minister to replace our current senior minister, who is retiring after 27 years of service to our church. This is an exceptional opportunity for the right candidate. We are looking for an experienced minister who will energize our membership, particularly in the area of church growth, while continuing to provide and build upon strong pastoral leadership, participation and communication.

    Des Plaines is located 17 miles northwest of Chicago. The 48,000 sq. ft. church building is located in a pleasant residential neighborhood, which includes both single-family homes and multi-storied condominiums.

    With 500+ members, First Congregational Church is among the most active churches in Des Plaines. Individuals and families of the church generously give their time, their energy and their resources to strengthen and enable the congregation's ministry. We value our strong commitment to outreach programs and services and hope our new minister will find his or her own way to continue to enrich our presence and effectiveness in the community.

    Our church staff consists of a full-time minister and eleven part-time employees. The staff works in a friendly, supportive team environment, with the minister as the chief administrator.

    We consider our church to be in a healthy position overall, including the area of finance. Like many congregations, ours has faced difficulties of rising costs and inflation. However, people of our church are generous in their support. Whenever there has been a specific need, members of the congregation have responded with financial support.

    It is our hope that our new pastor will be an enthusiastic, inspirational, and charismatic leader. He or she should be both passionate and compassionate. The salary and benefits package meets the guidelines of the CMA, and is negotiable, based upon the experience and skills of the incoming pastor.

    Download a copy of the Church Profile HERE

    If interested in this position, please contact CMA at 312-939-5918 or by email at: cma@cmaucc.org

    Services for The Rev. Calvin C. H. Bremer were held at Westchester Community Church on Saturday February 9. The Rev. Bremer was Pastor Emeritus of Westchester Community Church. Please hold his family and friends in your prayers.
    SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9: CMA IN CARE GATHERING

    All those involved in the CMA In Care Program are invited and encouraged to attend a two hour meeting on Saturday, February 9, from 10 am until 12 noon at Pilgrim Congregational UCC, 460 Lake Street in Oak Park.

    The purpose of this meeting is to share ideas on how to walk with those who are exploring the idea of ordination in the UCC.

    This gathering is for the five main groups who are involved in the process:
  • In Care advisors
  • Local church pastors who have an In Care student in their congregation. (Pastors, if you cannot attend please send someone from your local church In Care committee.)
  • ALL In Care students
  • Members of the CMA Ordination Committee
  • Members of the CMA In Care Committee.

    Please RSVP by February 1st to Rev. Betsy Bacon, Chair of the In Care Committee, at Revbbacon@aol.com

    TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2008: INTRODUCTION TO NONVIOLENT COMMUNICATION

    For those whose professional lives might include teaching, child care or faith, Rev. Leslie Ritter-Jenkins of the First Congregational Church of Western Springs (708-246-1900 ext. 20) will be introducing Nonviolent Communication as a path to peace and wholeness in all areas of life, crossing cultural, racial and religious boundaries.

    The program will take place on Tuesday, February 5, 2008 from 7-9 pm at the First Congregational Church of Western Springs, 1106 Chestnut (three blocks west of Wolf) Western Springs, IL 60558 (708-246-1900). Enter through the north door by the playground.

    Leslie attended a 10-day International Intensive Training for NVC in Alburquerque in December. She will be showing some photos of that experience and discussing it as part of her introduction to NVBC. She says she is offering this program for several reasons:

    Connection- I love connecting with friends, sharing experiences and learning together.

    Contribution - All parts of my life have been enriched by NVC, and I want to share some basics of what NVC is, in case others might find this technique and consciousness helpful to them.

    Inspiration - At the International Intensive Training, I was inspired by so many people I met. I now know people who are finding NVC an effective tool, in traditional schools, working with youth who have experienced a great deal of pain in their lives, prisons, counseling, internationally in areas of the world at war, and in perhaps one of the hardest places - our own families.

    Please email Leslie to let her know if you can attend: leslie@wscongo.org

    Farewell Reception for
    Jane Fisler Hoffman - Feb 2

    CMA and the Illinois Conference will host a Farewell Service and Reception for Illinois Conference Minister Jane Fisler Hoffman on Saturday, February 2, 2008, at 2:00 pm at Westchester Community Church, 1840 Westchester Blvd, Westchester, IL 60154. All are encouraged to attend.

    Jane's last day in the Illinois Conference office was December 31, 2007. She will be moving to California to become the Interim Conference Minister of the California, Nevada Southern Conference of the UCC
    SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2008: FAREWELL SERVICE AND RECEPTION FOR REV. JANE FISLER HOFFMAN

    The Illinois Conference and CMA will bid farewell to Illinois Conference Minister The Rev. Jane Fisler Hoffman on Saturday, February 2, 2008, at Westchester Community Church, 1840 Westchester Blvd, Westchester, IL 60154

    A Worship Service of Farewell will begin in the church sanctuary at 2:00 pm and will be followed by a reception for Jane and Milt. Everyone is encourage to attend.

    Illinois Conference Minister Jane Fisler Hoffman to be Interim Conference Minister of Southern California/Nevada Conference of the UCC

    The Illinois Conference and CMA will host a Farewell Service and Reception for Illinois Conference Minister Jane Fisler Hoffman on Saturday, February 2, 2008, at 2:00 pm at Westchester Community Church, 1840 Westchester Blvd, Westchester, IL 60154. All are encouraged to attend.

    Jane's last day in the Illinois Conference office was December 31, 2007.


    TO: The Churches and Pastors of the Illinois Conference
    From: Jane Fisler Hoffman
    November 11, 2007

    Dear Friends in Christ,

    With a mixture of excitement and regret, I am writing to announce my resignation from the position of Illinois Conference Minister as of February 10, 2008 with the actual 'departure date' yet to be determined with our leadership. Milt and I have just returned from Los Angeles where the Board of the Southern California Nevada Conference voted to offer me the position of Interim Conference Minister and I was honored to accept. The Southern California Nevada is a Conference with priorities of building community in diversity, supporting new and renewing churches and youth/young adult ministry, commitments which I share. This will be a wonderful opportunity to learn and grow as well as to offer my experience and gifts for ministry.

    Every new ministry also means ending in one’s current place and that is never easy. The Illinois Conference has given me an abundance of wondrous ministry opportunities and challenges and I am grateful to God and to all of you for those opportunities. I have met so many wonderful people and been welcomed in so many communities of faith. Together we have shared in important ministries and witness for Christ. While I will no longer be your Conference Minister, I will treasure the relationships made here. And I will look forward with great expectation to hearing about the new future that is emerging in the life of this Conference.

    In my experience, times of departure fly by in the church world so though I may have other times and ways to say it, I want to take this chance to thank you for the great privilege of sharing with you in the ministry of this great Conference. In all the transitions ahead, I will hold you in prayer and hope that you will do the same for me.

    May the approaching seasons of Thanksgiving and Advent be full of joy for each of you and for all of you who are the Illinois Conference.

    With You in Christ’s Service,

    Jane

    Mike Denton called to Seattle

    CMA Association Co-Minister The Rev. Michael Denton has been called to be the new conference minister of the Pacific Northwest Conference (PNC) of the United Church of Christ. His last day with CMA was December 21, 2007. You can download Mike's Final Report to CMA HERE.
    (Posted 10/22/07 - 1-30-08)
    Open and Affirming Program Coordinator, UCC Coalition

    The United Church of Christ Coalition for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Concerns is a 35-year old 501(c) 3 organization, independent of, and affiliated with the United Church of Christ.

    The Open and Affirming (ONA) Program of the United Church of Christ (UCC) is the program through which congregations make explicit their welcome to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. There are currently 690 ONA congregations of the UCC, and the momentum of churches and other settings becoming ONA is increasing.

    The Open and Affirming Program Coordinator develops volunteer resources to expand the number of ONA congregations, working with ecumenical partners to expand church and society's inclusion of LGBT people in membership and leadership.

    Download full job description and information here.

    (Posted 10/10/07 - 1/30/08)
    Coordinator of Community and Congregational Relations, The Night Ministry, Chicago

    The coordinator of community and congregational relations develops and sustains relationships on behalf of The Night Ministry with congregations and community groups throughout the Chicago metropolitan area. She or he does this by providing public education on TNM's mission and programs and by working collaboratively with other staff to develop small-group volunteer opportunities.

    The successful candidate will have experience conducting community outreach, recruiting volunteers, and working successfully with diverse cultural and faith traditions. We're looking for an individual with outstanding interpersonal, writing, and oral skills who can work a flexible schedule including some nights and frequent Sundays. The successful candidate also will be a team player with excellent administrative skills.

    A bachelor's degree is required; seminary or divinity school training is desired. Access to reliable personal transportation, a current driver's license, a good driving record, and evidence of insurability also are required.

    To apply, please send a resume and cover letter by fax to 773-784-5865 or by email to hr@thenightministry.org

    (Posted 10/10/07 - 1/30/08)
    Administrative Assistant, The Night Ministry, Chicago

    The administrative assistant provides administrative support to two departments (the Outreach and Health Ministry and the department of Volunteering and Community and Congregational Relations) and for the Vice President for Programs. She or he schedules individual and group volunteers, develops fliers and other printed materials, assures that the Health Outreach Bus is stocked with supplies, expedites the distribution of donations, coordinates mailings, occasionally supervises group volunteer events, and assists with all aspects of the annual Holiday Celebration.

    The successful candidate will be a highly-organized, detail- and deadline-oriented self-starter, able to work independently. We're looking for an individual with superior interpersonal skills who can work well with diverse populations. A high school diploma is required, as is a current driver's license, good driving record, and evidence of insurability.

    To apply, please send a resume and cover letter by fax to 773-784-5865 or by email to hr@thenightministry.org

    (Posted 10/05/07 - 1/30/08)
    CHAPLAIN, PLYMOUTH PLACE SENIOR LIVING, LaGRANGE PARK

    Plymouth Place Senior Living in La Grange Park, Illinois (member UCC/CHHSM) is seeking a chaplain to provide spiritual care and coordinate religious services for residents and staff as the community reorganizes in a new state-of-the-art facility.

    The chaplain will be a contracted professional (approximately 20 hours per week) reporting to the Director of Resident Services and consulting with the CEO on a plan for the future of the chaplaincy.

    A degree from an accredited theological seminary, ministerial standing in one's denomination (UCC preferred), and CPE or comparable training/experience are required.

    The chaplain will arrange for weekly worship services for the general population and in the health care center, will make home and hospital visits, counsel residents and staff, and serve as liaison to the wider religious community.

    Please send letter of interest with ministerial profile/resume to:

    Kathleen Wray,
    Director of Resident Services
    Plymouth Place Senior Living
    315 N. La Grange Rd.
    La Grange Park, IL 60526
    Tel: 708-482-6636
    Fax: 708-482-6847
    E-mail: kwray@plymouth.provinet.com

    (Posted 6/7/07 - 1/30/08)
    Organizer - Civic Action Community Renewal Society

    Community Renewal Society seeks an Organizer for its Civic Action Network.

    Community Renewal Society is a progressive, faith-based organization that works to eliminate race and class barriers. Founded in 1882, Community Renewal serves racially and ethnically diverse and economically disadvantaged individuals and their communities through organizing, advocacy, and investigative journalism through our magazines The Chicago Reporter and Catalyst Chicago.

    The Civic Action Network is Community Renewal Society's regional network of diverse congregations working to overcome the barriers of poverty and racism. Activists in member congregations come together across racial, ethnic, geographic and socioeconomic lines throughout the Chicago metropolitan region to shape public policies, practices and programs to foster hope and create opportunity for all Illinois residents.

    Read the complete Organizer Job Description HERE.

    To learn more about CRS visit www.communityrenewalsociety.org

    Salary commensurate with experience.
    Submit Resumes by June 29nd.

    Mail, e-mail or fax resume and cover letter to:
    Human Resources
    Community Renewal Society
    332 South Michigan Ave, Suite 500
    Chicago, IL 60604
    312-427-6130 (fax)
    humanresources@crs-ucc.org

    NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE
    CRS is an equal opportunity employer

    Rev. Kenneth B. Smith, Sr.
    1931 - 2008

    Funeral Services for our beloved and respected Rev. Kenneth Smith will be held on Saturday, January 26, 2008 at 12 noon at the Church of the Good Shepherd, 5700 S. Prairie, Chicago. Visitation will be from 10 am - 12 noon.

    Among his many accomplishments, Kenneth Smith was President of the Chicago Theological Seminary, Pastor of the Church of the Good Shepherd, the Congregational Church of Park Manor, and Trinity United Church of Christ (Chicago).

    The Chicago Tribune quotes the Rev. Jesse Knox's description of Ken: "He was known for just walking the streets, talking to people in the neighborhood. He never distinguished between culture and class."

    Read the Chicago Tribune article HERE.
    SATURDAY, JANUARY 26: WINTER FARMERS' MARKET AND BRUNCH

    Harvest of Hope, a winter farmers' market and brunch, will be held at Wellington Avenue UCC, 615 W Wellington in Chicago, on Saturday, January 26, 2008, from 10 am to 2 pm.

    Browse and buy wool and woolen goods, farmstead milk soap, cheese, preserves, honey, grassfed meats, syrup, raw fibers, farm-fresh eggs and more - all grown or produced on family farms or small farm cooperatives in the Midwest. Also featuring fair trade coffee, chocolate and crafts.

    Brunch will be served using farm products purchased directly from participating farmers. Reservations are encouraged. Call 773-935-0642. Admission to the market is free. Suggested donation for brunch is $8 adults and $4 children.

    Harvest of Hope Winter Farmers' Markets promote:
  • Economic Justice for rural communities, small farmers and their families
  • Earth Stewardship by supporting sustainable farming methods and buying locally
  • Community and Spirituality by connecting urban and rural, farmer and consumer.

    Download a flyer HERE.

    THURSDAY, JANUARY 24: CTS LENTEN/EASTER LECTIONARY WORKSHOP

    You are invited to a day of study, reflection and fellowship at Chicago Theological Seminary's Annual Lenten/Easter Lectionary Workshop on Thursday, January 24th, 2008, 9 am - 3 pm.

    This year's workshop leader will be Dr. Larry Edwards, Rabbi of Congregation Or Chadash in Chicago and Adjunct Professor at Chicago Theological Seminary.

    The program will be held at The First Congregational Church of Naperville, 25 E Benton Ave, Naperville, IL 60540; (630-355-1024). Registration is $40,

    For more information and a registration form, download a copy of the brochure HERE.

    WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 23: CLUSTER FIVE MEETING FOR ALL IN CMA

    All of CMA is invited to the next Cluster Five Meeting on Wednesday, January 23, at 6:30 pm, at Immanuel-Bethel UCC, 14540 Lincoln Avenue, Dolton, IL 60419 (708-841-3737).

    Theme: Bumps Along the Ecumenical Road

    Guest: Rev. Nicholas Kelley, Pastor of the Church of the Holy Name Family, Chicago.

    Cluster Dean Bob Hempel says, "Rev. Kelley is pastor of a Non-Roman Catholic Church. I have known him for about two years. I first met him as a Deacon who served at the Funeral Mass for his Bishop's mother. The Mass was in the sanctuary of St. Petri United Church of Christ. Last fall, I sat in the "Ecumenical Row" at his ordination at an Episcopal Church in Rogers Park. He is a native of Ireland with expertise in Celtic art and liturgy. He is a very knowledgeable and delightful person."

    Please join us to pray for Christian Unity and meet Rev. Kelley.

  • Homegoing Services for Michael Seaton, husband of Rev. Melody Seaton of Covenant UCC in South Holland, will be held at Covenant, 1130 E. 154th Street, South Holland, IL 60473 (708-333-5955) on Saturday, January 19, 2008. The family hour will be from 10-11 and the services from 11-Noon. Michael went home to be with the Lord on January 11th. Please hold Melody and her family in your prayers. Her email address is mel28crim@aol.com.
  • Services for Nicholas Camcam. Mr. Camcam died on Wednesday, January 16, 2008. He was the husband of Gloria Camcam, who is a member of Mont Clare UCC in Chicago and a long-time active lay member of many CMA and Illinois Conference committees. Services are all at Benson Funeral Home, 3224 W. Montrose, Chicago, IL 60618; 773-478-2036.
    - Saturday, January 19, 5 pm to 9 pm: Wake
    - Sunday, January 20, 5 pm to 9 pm: Wake with a Mont Clare UCC Vigil Service at 7 pm
    - Monday, January 21, 10 am: Funeral service followed by the burial.
    Please keep Gloria Camcam and her family in your prayers. Gloria can be reached by email at glocamcam@gmail.com.
    WEDNESDAY - FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 17 & 18: CRS COMMUNITY ORGANIZING TRAINING

    The Community Renewal Society has announced their next Community Organizing Training to be held January 16, 17, and 18, 2008, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm each day, at the Community Renewal Society office at 332 S. Michigan Av, Suite 500, Chicago 60604; $250/person (meals not included)

    There are 30 slots available on a first come first served basis. We apologize in advance if we cannot accommodate your registrations.

    If you have any inquires or questions regarding the Community Renewal Society organizing training, or to register for the January session, please contact Ellen Ray at 312-427-4830 x 3844. Though you reserve a space by completing a registration, your space is not confirmed until payment is received.

    We appreciate your commitment through partnering with us to meet your training needs and we look forward to your participation in the January session.

    Sincerely,

    Todd Dietterle
    Director of Civic Action
    Community Renewal Society

    THE BUZZ ABOUT OUR TRAINING (from January 2007 participants)

  • I WAS CHALLENGED. I feel like I have tools to understand (or at least ask the questions to be able to) a situation and decide how to move forward TO DO SOMETHING.

  • I was very pleased with the training and the trainers. It gave me a very real and practical perspective of organizing that I could us on my job. It really equips you with what you need to become an organizer.

  • I would describe this training to others as an "Organizers’ Bootcamp."

  • I am very fortunate that my Executive Director decided to send me to this training...I had some ideas about how to organize, but I have learned so much. It really has clarified my intentions and what I say are my self-interests.

  • The activities are engaging and challenging. The trainers are interesting and full of character. They deal with real life organizing situations - you will learn so much about building relationship in community organizations.

    LMPC Program Brochures Available

    Lombard Mennonite Peace Center has announced a new schedule of programs for the coming year. A brochures can be download here, but for more information visit the LMPC website at: www.LMPeaceCenter.org or call them at 630-627-0507

  • Clergy Clinic in Family Emotional Process

    The Clergy Clinic meets three times each year for three successive days each time for a total of nine days. Participants choose one of the two groups to attend (all sessions at First Church of Lombard):

    Group A: November 5-7, 2007; February 18-20, 2008; April 28-30, 2008

    Group B: December 3-5, 2007; March 3-5, 2008; May 12-14, 2008

    This program is designed to enhance the ability of participants to function as self-differentiated leaders within their own ministry setting. It will provide a safe forum for processing challenging situations in one's ministry, while also facilitating reflection on a way of thinking about the human condition which has implications for all aspects of life.

    The program includes reflection on the concepts of family emotional process; reflection on the minister's three interlocking families: the minister's own personal family, the parishioner family, and the congregation as a family; and Bowen family systems theory as it relates to congregational systems.

    Download Clergy Clinic Brochure

    SUNDAY, JANUARY 13: INSTALLATION SERVICE FOR REV EDWARD DAVIS

    You are cordially invited to attend the Installation Service for The Reverend Edward Smith Davis as the new pastor of St. Mark, United Church of Christ in Chicago Heights, Illinois. The service will be held at 4:00 P.M. on Sunday, January 13, 2008 at the church located at 312 Chicago Road, Chicago Heights, Illinois 60411; 708-754-2266.

    The Reverend Dr. Jorge Morales, Associate Conference Minister of the Illinois Conference, United Church of Christ, will deliver the sermon and all Cluster V Pastors will bring greetings from their local churches. All pastors, clergy and seminarians are invited to robe and process and are requested to arrive by 3:45pm.

    Refreshments will be served immediately following the worship/installation service.

    The Rev. Davis can be reached at: kbedavis@aol.com

    SUNDAY, JANUARY 13: MUSIC AND HIV IN SOUTH AFRICA

    BODY SOLDIERS: Music and HIV in South Africa

    Sunday January 13th, 7pm
    Church of St. Paul and the Redeemer
    4945 South Dorchester Ave, Chicago.

    TICKETS $15/adults; $8/students

    In 2006, thanks to a generous grant to "Yes is a World" from the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, Mollie Stone led a coalition of students of music, film and medicine to South Africa in search of people using choral music to fight the spread of HIV. Drawing upon the activist tradition of anti-apartheid music, new songs are helping many people accept their status, while educating and inspiring those most at risk. People of all ages use music as a powerful tool of communication. Tradition, strife and hope are embedded in each song, transmuting the decades of struggle against apartheid into determination and perseverance in the fight against AIDS.

    BODY SOLDIERS is the first full performance of the material we collected in South Africa, and a melding of American and South African traditions, integrated throughout with documentary footage from our trip by Anthony Morrison and Charlotte Royer. Featuring a fantastic choir, new music by Ted Hearne, and the brilliant poetic stylings of hiphop artist SKIM.

    SATURDAY & SUNDAY, JANUARY 12-13: WORSHIP ALIVE! WORKSHOP

    An outstanding series of workshops are scheduled for Worship Alive! again this coming year. The next workshop titles and leaders are:

  • January 12-13, 2008: The Lively Word: Worship that Rattles the Teacups with Dr. Jana Childers

  • February 23-24, 2008: Reclaiming Sacramental Practices with Rev. Chip Andrus

  • April 19-20, 2008: Roots and Wings for Transformative Worship with Elise Eslinger

    Download the brochure with complete information on these workshops. Copies will be mailed soon.

    Note that once again this year each workshop will be offered twice: on Saturday afternoon at the Presbyterian Church of Western Springs and on Sunday afternoon at the United Church of Rogers Park. In response to feedback received, we have lengthened each workshop by 30 minutes--they will now start at 2:00 p.m. and end at 5:00 p.m. The costs remain the same as previous years.

    If you have any questions or need additional information or brochures, please contact Mark Bowman, Worship Alive! coordinator, at: worshipalive@comcast.net

    We look forward to seeing you at this year's workshops. Together we can enable and empower our churches to reclaim and reinvigorate their worship lives.

    SATURDAY, JANUARY 12: HIV/AIDS SUMMIT

    Continue the dialogue at Clergy Leadership Summit IV for HIV/AIDS Community Outreach, commemorating the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

    Saturday, January 12, 2008
    Lutheran School of Theology
    1100 East 55th Street, Chicago, IL 60615

  • 8:00 AM - Registration & Breakfast
  • 8:30 AM - Worship - Program - Workshops
  • 1:00 PM - Lunch - Solutions - Commitments
  • 3:00 PM - Adjournment

    Download Flyer Here


    FRIDAY-SUNDAY, JANUARY 11-13: ICYI MIDWINTER RETREAT

    L.E.A.D. - LEADING BY EXAMPLE AND DOING

    Rev. Da Vita McCallister and Rev. Bryan Sirchio will both be with us for the ICYI Midwinter Retreat. Mark your calendars for January 11-13, 2008. This event is open to youth who are in the 7th through 12th grades, as well as ICYI college board members, who will help with the event. More information will be forthcoming in the mail the week of October 15-19, so ask your pastor, associate pastor, youth pastor, DCE, DRE, or whoever might work with youth in your church for the information.

    L.E.A.D. your youth group and adult sponsors to attend this event. For easy access, all the information going out in the mail (registration forms, medical forms, adult disclosure forms, etc.) should be on the Conference web site (www.ilucc.org - Illinois Conference Youth Initiative link), as well as the ICYI web site (www.icyi.org) by the end of next week.

    Since the event is at Pilgrim Park we have a limited number of spaces, so get your registration packet in early.

    Andrea Lasticly Ecclesiastical Council - January 7

    Cluster Six will host an Ecclesiastical Council for Andrea Mason Lasticly to consider her Ordination to the Christian Ministry on Monday, January 7, 2008 at 6:30 PM as part of the regular monthly Cluster Six Meeting at Avalon Park United Church of Christ, 8100 S. Dante Av, Chicago, IL 60619; 773-721-3988.

    All clergy and church representatives in CMA are encouraged to attend. You can download and read Andrea's Ordination paper HERE.
    SUNDAY, JANUARY 6: RENEWAL IN THE WILDERNESS ON WTTW

    Chicago's PBS station, WTTW, has a program called Thirty Good Minutes that runs on Sundays from 5-5:30 PM. This summer they taped a feature about Renewal in the Wilderness that will air on January 6, 2008, in their "Spiritual Journey" segment. Our portion will run in the final fifteen (15) minutes. It can also be seen, beginning around January 3, on Thirty Good Minutes' website, at www.csec.org. It will be there indefinitely. Click on the "Short Videos" button, download the free software called Real Player that you'll need to view the segment, then take a look.

    John Lionberger for Renewal in the Wilderness
    website: www.renewalinthewilderness.org
    e-mail: renewalitw@joltmail.com
    phone: 847-869-5885

    NOTE: John Lionberger has written a book about the spiritual power of the wilderness, called "Renewal in the Wilderness: A Spiritual Guide to Connecting With God in the Natural World." It's available at Barnes & Noble, Borders, B. Dalton, many religious bookstores, Amazon.com, BooksAMillion.com, Christianbook.com, Alibris.com and many other on-line bookstores. It's also now in international distribution. "Publishers Weekly" gave it an excellent review (see it on our website, listed above), and to date the book has received six, 5-star reviews on Amazon.com. The publisher is SkyLight Paths Publishing in Woodstock, VT (you can order directly from Sklylightspaths.com) who made "Renewal in the Wilderness...." their featured book for June, 2007. If you would be interested in a presentation and a book signing I'd be delighted to discuss it with you.

    FRIDAY, JANUARY 4: REGINALD WILLIAMS ORDINATION

    The Chicago Metropolitan Association will Ordain Reginald W. Williams, Jr. to the Christian ministry on Friday, January 4, 2008 at 7:00pm at Trinity United Church of Christ, 400 West 95th Street, Chicago, IL 60628-1120 (773-962-5650). Everyone in CMA is encouraged to attend.

    FRIDAY & SATURDAY, JANUARY 4 & 5: CMA BOUNDARY TRAINING WORKSHOP

    The next CMA Boundary Training Workshop will be held Friday and Saturday, January 4 and 5, 2008 at the CMA office in downtown Chicago. Boundary Training is now required of all clergy with standing in CMA and all those In Care with CMA. This program will be open to both groups.

    CMA boundary training uses the current Faith Trust Institute video-based curriculum plus a variety of supplemental materials. This current boundary training curriculum was first offered in January 2005. If you took CMA boundary training before 2005, you will have to take it again based on the new curriculum. This CMA training is accepted throughout the Illinois Conference. Other UCC conferences may or may not accept this training.

    At this point, CMA boundary training need only be taken once, so if you have taken the training with CMA after 2004 and received a certificate, you do not need to sign up again. Refresher courses may be offered in the future.

    Each program will begin promptly at 9:00 am sharp on both days. Please plan to arrive by 8:45 am. You must be on time. The program concludes at 5:00 pm on the first day and 4:00 pm on the second day.

    The CMA office is located at 332 S. Michigan Ave, Suite 510, Chicago, IL, which is convenient for all public transportation. There is ample lower cost parking in the Grant Park South Garage, the south end of which is located right in front of our building. You enter the garage from an entrance lane on the left side of northbound Michigan Avenue immediately north of Van Buren Street.

    YOU MUST ATTEND ALL DAY BOTH DAYS TO RECEIVE CREDIT FOR THESE TRAININGS.

    The registration fee is $30 for clergy and $10 for In Care. The fee includes all meals and materials both days.

    Send your registration form and check (payable to CMA) to the CMA office. Attendance is limited to 16 participants. A Registration Form can be DOWNLOADED HERE.

    We believe this training will greatly enhance your effectiveness in ministry and be a blessing to you and the people you serve. If you have any questions about the training, please contact Rev. Edward Goode or Rev. Michael Denton at CMA at 312-939-5918.

    Future Boundary Training dates are:

  • Thursday and Friday, April 24 and 25, 2008

  • Thursday and Friday, June 12 and 13. 2008

    Both of these future events will be held at the CMA office in downtown Chicago, and both will be open to those In Care and those with standing.



    Update on Angolan Partnership and IL Conf Visit to Angola

    From:
    Rev. Dr. Jane Fisler Hoffman
    Illinois Conference Minister

    Dear Friends,

    Last week I was drafting a very different email to send you. I was ready to ask you to pray for the 8 of us planning to leave to visit our global partner church in Angola on August 23 (all costs supported by non-OCWM money, by the way!). However problems obtaining visas made it impossible for our group to go on the planned dates. Because of scheduling challenges, we have not set a new date and the visit may not happen until early 2008. But the group is committed to making the visit as part of our partnership mission "to build the body of Christ in two places". They are also interested in inviting other folks to join them so start thinking now about whether God might be calling you to such a faith adventure.

    But please know that our partnership is still alive and well! Our own Donna Dudley is in Portugal devotedly studying Portuguese before she begins her service as a missionary in Angola and our Conference is still actively seeking funds to support her over the next three years. And we are still welcoming funds for any of the partnership projects: their new seminary for badly needed pastors, building a hospital in a remote rural community, and support of the church's overall mission there. Your prayers for Donna and the Evangelical Congregational Church of Angola are important and much appreciated. And your financial support (this is 'over and above' your generous support of Our Church's Wider Mission) is welcome--contributions may be sent to the Illinois Conference clearly designated for Angola Missionary or for Angola Project (specify) ____.

    The Angola Team (which includes anyone with interest in and commitment to the partnership!) will convene again soon. If you are interested in be notified about the meetings, please contact Bev Portzelt (BFPorzelt@comcast.net) who handles communications.

    Blessings,

    jane

    Rev. Dr. Jane Fisler Hoffman ,
    Illinois Conference Minister
    1840 Westchester Blvd.
    Westchester IL 60154
    708.344.4470

    (Posted 9/11/07 - 12/21/07)
    Director of Communications UCC National Office, Cleveland

    This is an attractive opportunity for leadership at the national headquarters of the United Church of Christ. UCC is accepting applications for the position of Director of Communications. We are seeking a visionary, collaborative, entrepreneurial individual to lead the Proclamation, Identify and Communications ministry team and provide strategic leadership for all UCC communications.

    Download the complete position profile here.

    This position is an excellent opportunity for someone who wants to work with the United Church of Christ on a national level. The Director of Communications serves as the chief communications officer, working collaboratively with other communications staff to utilize traditional and emerging media (print, radio, television, video, Web-based, and social networking) to tell the Church’s expansive story to people both inside and outside the Church. The Director reports to the Associate General Minister at UCC and has additional reporting responsibility to the Board of Directors of the Office of Communication, Inc. (OC, Inc.) in Washington, D.C. The position offers an excellent salary with great benefits, and a relocation package.

    Applications will be held in confidence. Applications should include a letter outlining the applicant’s background, qualifications and vision for the position, a profile or résumé, and contact information for five professional references, at least one of whom is a direct report, a second a colleague, and a third an individual to whom the applicant has reported directly. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Please send all inquiries and application materials in electronic form to UCC@eflassociates.com

    Thank you for your assistance with this opportunity.

    EFL ASSOCIATES
    Phone: 913-451-8866 x128
    www.eflassociates.com

    (Posted 01/11/07 - 12/21/07)
    SENIOR PASTOR: ST. PETER'S UCC, ELMHURST

    St. Peter's in Elmhurst is a church with a rich, traditional history in a most highly regarded metropolitan/suburban setting. St. Peter's strengths include love and caring among its parishioners, superb pastoral and support staff, rich programming, a burgeoning Christian transformation program, and continued esteemed standing in the Elmhurst community and the wider church. Although St Peter's has experienced some membership decline and financial adjustments, its successful interim time has led to rejuvenation.

    Spiritually, our church seeks to call a Senior Pastor who can bring the word of God to the membership with relevance and power. Members most often cited the desire to call a great preacher, but they deeply value a minister's ability to connect with them and nurture their faith on many levels. The church leadership calls for a Senior Pastor who is a skilled administrator while being an able leader and mentor of associate pastors and other church staff.

    St. Peter's has had rather short pastorates in recent years and has faced above average staff turnover. The resultant transitions have caused some unrest in the church. We have actively and intentionally confronted the challenges of change during a substantial interim period, addressing our strengths and weaknesses. As a result we have grown as a church to be more open and aware. We have laid the foundation for a new, vibrant, and long-term pastorate.

    St. Peter's is renewing its spiritual strength, seeking to build on our sense of community, enhancing further our Christian transformation programs (especially with adults) and making progress in revitalizing our long-standing focus as a "mission church."

    The Senior Pastor will enjoy a strong support system from excellent lay leadership and from a loving congregation. We are looking for a Senior Pastor to combine his or her strengths with the energy of the membership to enable our beloved church to serve God better.

    Confident that God is guiding us, St. Peter's invites candidates to consider the call of joining a strong and hopeful congregation of believers in ministry.

    Contact CMA (312-939-5918) to have your profile sent to St Peter's.

    SUNDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2007: REV. CALVIN MORRIS AT PARK MANOR

    The Rev. Dr. Calvin Morris, Executive Director of the Community Renewal Society, will be the guest preacher for Trustee Sunday at The Congregational Church of Park Manor, 7000 South King Drive, Chicago 60637 (773-224-4700) on Sunday, December 16, 2007 at the 10:30 am worship service. All are invited to attend.

    WORLD AIDS DAY

    Many CMA churches observed World AIDS Day on December 1st. Since 1988, World AIDS Day has been commemorated on December 1st as a joint campaign of many organizations and faiths involved in the fight against AIDS. The campaign focuses on generating greater public awareness of AIDS and the prevention of the spread of the HIV virus. The World AIDS Campaign also hopes to encourage leaders in government to keep their promises of assistance to provide universal access to treatment, care and prevention.

    For more information visit the World AIDS Day website at www.worldvision.org.

    Anthony Hollins
    1965 - 2007

    It is with great sadness that we tell you that Anthony Hollins, a member of Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago and a student In Care with CMA, passed away Sunday morning, November 25, 2007. Services were held on December 1 at Trinity UCC in Chicago.

    Please keep Anthony's family and friends and community in your prayers. Letters and notes of condolence to the parents of Anthony Hollins may be sent to:
    Arthur and Bertha Hollins
    % 18533 S. Meadow Lane
    Hazel Crest, IL 60429

    You can read the Chicago Tribune article about Anthony HERE

    The Rev. Landis McAlpin
    1929 - 2007

    The Rev. Landis McAlpin, former Firefighter and Chaplain for the Chicago Fire Department and Associate Pastor for South Shore Community Church died on November 20, 2007. Rev. Mr. McAlpin was a graduate of the Chicago Theological Seminary and served in a number of Chicago churches either as a member of the pastoral staff or as an esteemed guest preacher. Service were held on November 30 at Bryn Mawr Community Church in Chicago. Please keep The McAlpin family and friends in your prayers.
    SUNDAY, DECEMBER 9: CRS CHORUS CHRISTMAS CONCERT

    The Community Renewal Chorus and All God's Children are presenting A Christmas Concert at Eden United Church of Christ on Sunday, December 9 at 4pm. The combined choirs' 100 voices will present a diverse musical program of holiday traditions from many cultures. The address for Eden United Church of Christ is 5051 Gunnison Street, Chicago, 60630-2310.

    SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8: HIV/AIDS HEALTH SYMPOSIUM

    The Congregational Church of Park Manor is sponsoring its first Health Symposium focusing on HIV/AIDS in the 65 year+ age group and on the health care crisis in the State of Illinois on Saturday, December 8, 2007 from 10am - 2pm at the church at 7000 S. King Drive, Chicago 60637. Lunch is provided. Everyone is Welcome. For additional information contact Harlette Washington at 773-336-4251.

    WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5: CLUSTER FIVE CONCERT AND CAROLING

    On Wednesday, December 5, 2007, at 7:30 PM, Cluster 5 and Peace Memorial UCC are hosting a "Gifts of the Spirit" Concert in the sanctuary at Peace Memorial UCC, 10300 W. 131st St., Palos Park.

    Guest artists will be Sarah Van Drunen, soprano, and Joseph Felice, organist. We will also be Christmas caroling at Peace Village, 10300 Peace Village Dr., Palos Park at 5:30pm, followed at 6pm by a light supper and Cluster 5 business meeting in the Fireside Lounge of Peace Memorial.

    MONDAY, DECEMBER 3: REGINALD WILLIAMS ECCLESIASTICAL COUNCIL

    Cluster Six will host an Ecclesiastical Council for Reginald W. Williams, Jr, during the regular monthly cluster meeting on December 3, 2007 at Kenwood UCC, 4608 S Greenwood, Chicago, IL 60653 (773-373-2861). The meeting begins at 6:30 pm.

    Mr. Williams is a member of Trinity UCC in Chicago, and a member of their pastoral staff. His ordination paper can be downloaded HERE.

    Please encourage all CMA clergy and church delegates to attend

    WORLD AIDS DAY - December 1

    Many CMA churches will be observing World AIDS Day on Saturday, December 1, 2007.

    Bethany United Church of Christ, 4250 N. Paulina Street, Chicago, is hosting a 5 p.m. service of hope and remembrance on World AIDS Day, December 1st. The service will be led by Michael G.Miller, the music director for Bethany's weekly Saturday service, and by Bethany's seminary intern, Danielle Neff. For additional information, please call the church office at 773-472-0729.

    Bethel United Church of Christ of Elmhurst and the Elmhurst Ministerium will hold a service of remembrance on Friday, November 30th at 7:00 pm, on the eve of World AIDS Day 2007. The service will honor and remember all who have been affected by AIDS.

    Rev. Steve Schuette of Bethel UCC, Rev. Richard Mangnall of First Congregational UCC, Rev. Joan Patton-Seaton of Christ United Methodist Church and Rev. Scott Matheney, Chaplain of Elmhurst College, will be participating. The Elmhurst Ministerium welcomes all members of the community to attend the service. Candles will be lighted in memory of loved ones and in honor of those suffering with the disease. Also, personal stories will be shared at the service and a personal blessing will be offered to all in attendance. For more information, please call (630) 279-4040. Bethel UCC is located at 315 E. St. Charles Road in Elmhurst.

    Since 1988, World AIDS Day has been commemorated on December 1st as a joint campaign of many organizations and faiths involved in the fight against AIDS. The campaign focuses on generating greater public awareness of AIDS and the prevention of the spread of the HIV virus. The World AIDS Campaign also hopes to encourage leaders in government to keep their promises of assistance to provide universal access to treatment, care and prevention.

    For more information visit the World AIDS Day website at www.worldvision.org.

    The Rev. Landis McAlpin
    1929 - 2007

    The Rev. Landis McAlpin, former Firefighter and Chaplain for the Chicago Fire Department and Associate Pastor for South Shore Community Church died on November 20, 2007. Rev. Mr. McAlpin was a graduate of the Chicago Theological Seminary and served in a number of Chicago churches either as a member of the pastoral staff or as an esteemed guest preacher.

    The Homegoing is to be on Friday, November 30 at Bryn Mawr Community Church, 7000 S. Jeffrey Blvd, Chicago.
  • Visitation at 10 am
  • Funeral at 11am

    Please keep The McAlpin family and friends in your prayers.

    Anthony Hollins
    1965 - 2007

    It is with great sadness that we tell you that Anthony Hollins, a member of Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago and a student In Care with CMA, passed away Sunday morning, November 25, 2007.

    Services will be on Saturday, December 1, 2007, at Trinity UCC, 400 West 95th Street, Chicago, IL 60628 (773-962-5650)
  • 10:00 am - Family Hour
  • 11:00 am - Homegoing Service

    Please keep Anthony's family and friends and community in your prayers. Letters and notes of condolence to the parents of Anthony Hollins may be sent to:
    Arthur and Bertha Hollins
    % 18533 S. Meadow Lane
    Hazel Crest, IL 60429

    You can read the Chicago Tribune article about Anthony HERE
    (Posted 04/24/07 - 11/28/07)
    PASTOR: FAITH UNITED PROTESTANT CHURCH, PARK FOREST, IL

    Faith United Protestant Church, a 511 member church in the Chicago suburb of Park Forest, IL, seeks a pastor for its multi-racial & multi-cultural congregation. The church's dynamic lay leadership provides 30 programs from handbells to housing for the homeless. Compensation: 38,000 + 18,000 housing + benefits.

    If interested in this position, please contact CMA Association Co-Minister The Rev. Edward Goode at CMA at 312-939-5918 or by email at: edwardgoode@cmaucc.org

    TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 20: CAMPAIGN FOR BETTER HEALTH CARE ANNUAL MEETING

    You are invited to attend the Campaign for Better Health Care's Annual Meeting on Tuesday, November 20, 8:30 am - 1:30 pm at the Holiday Inn Mart Plaza, 350 N Orleans St, Chicago.

    Whether you are working for health care reform full time or you are new to the issue and just want to learn more, CBHC's 11th Annual Meeting is the place to be. More than 300 people - including national and state leaders - will come together to hear prominent speakers and in-depth panel discussions. This is a unique opportunity for you to network with health care reform leaders and learn more about how you can help advance health care justice in Illinois.

    It will be a half-day filled with celebration, information on health care policy and action, and a great lunch with other patrons of health care justice. Enjoy speakers, panels, networking, food and fun.

    Planned events include:
  • Panel discussions moderated by Elizabeth Brackett, MacNeil/Lehrer News Hour
  • Speakers from faith and grassroots community organizations
  • Business and health care round table
  • Discussions with providers, labor, children's advocates and more
  • Keynote address by a national political leader
  • Awards luncheon
  • Board elections

    RSVP today. For tickets, sponsorship and more information, please contact Kathleen Duffy at CBHC at 312-913-9449 or at kduffy@cbhconline.org. You can also use the online registration form: CLICK HERE.

    Discounted and donated tickets are available. Sponsorship opportunities will give your organization exposure. For details, download our sponsorship form and ad book size sheet.

    (Posted 07/02/07-11/20/07)
    SENIOR MINISTER, FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF LAGRANGE, Illinois

    The members of The First Congregational Church of LaGrange are seeking a Senior Pastor.

    Founded in 1881, we are an ONA congregation of approximately 700 located in LaGrange, Illinois, a western suburb of Chicago. The LaGrange area is a well established, thriving community with excellent schools and is closely situated to public transportation which services the western suburbs and Chicago.

    We seek a long-term relationship with a senior pastor who will lead us in spiritual renewal as we grow to love, worship and serve God more fully.

    Our congregation is a theologically diverse group that supports a wide range of ministries. We support an active Rotation Workshop type children's Sunday School program. We have a strong music ministry that not only supports weekly worship, but reaches out to the community in the form of the First Conservatory. We are blessed with a wonderful church facility that is used by many local community groups.

    We are also supportive of many programs within and outside the church that promote social responsibility. A weekly Saturday lunch program for the homeless and needy in the area is sponsored by and housed in our church. An active youth ministry is an important part of our church. We also support continued Christian education not only for our children, but also for our adults through an active adult education program.

    We have currently contracted an Interim Minister to transition us to a point where we will hire a full-time Senior Minister. As a congregation, we are seeking to continue the excellent ministries that we have in place while also being open to new possibilities.

    Some of the adjectives we'd like to be able to use in describing our next Senior Minister include the following: open-minded, flexible, supportive, visible, dynamic, charismatic, responsible, skilled, compassionate, comforting, approachable, friendly, intelligent, and full of integrity. Must he or she have all of these blessings? In effect, must he or she be able to walk on water too? No, we realize that the Senior Minister we're looking for is a human being with strengths as well as areas that aren't quite as strong. Our prayer is to find that "match" whereby both minister and congregation feel blessed by each others' gifts and strengths.

    If you are interested in exploring a relationship with us, please submit your profile to Rev. Michael Denton at the Chicago Metropolitan Association of the United Church of Christ. For more information on who we are, visit our website at www.fcclg.org.

    We adhere to Conference salary and benefits guidelines.

    Farewell Service for Mike Denton
    November 19 in Oak Park

    CMA will hold a farewell service and reception for Rev Michael Denton at Pilgrim Congregational Church in Oak Park on Monday, November 19, 2007 at 7:30 pm. All CMA clergy and lay persons are invited to attend.

    The Pacific Northwest Conference (PNC) of the United Church of Christ has called Mike to be their new Conference Minister. Accordingly, Mike will be moving to Seattle in January of 2008. His last day with CMA will be December 21, 2007.

    Mike Denton to be Pacific NW Conference Minister

    The Pacific Northwest Conference (PNC) of the United Church of Christ has called Rev Michael Denton to be their new Conference Minister. Accordingly, Mike will be moving to Seattle in January of 2008. His last day with CMA will be December 21, 2007.

    CMA is planning a farewell service for Mike at Pilgrim Congregational Church in Oak Park on Monday, November 19, 2007 at 7:30 pm. Please RSVP to CMA if you can attend,

    Matthew Smucker Installation

    The Rev. Matthew J. Smucker will be installed by CMA as Chaplain at St. Pauls House on Sunday, November 18, 2007 at 3 pm. The service will be in the Chapel at St. Pauls House, 3800 N. California, Chicago, IL 60618. A reception will follow.

    The Rev. Matthew J. Smucker, Director of Pastoral Services and Volunteers, St. Pauls House, A Lutheran Life Community; phone: 773-478-4222, ext. 346; www.stpaulshouse.org; msmucker@lutheranlifecommunities.org

    Day Away Retreat
    with Rev. John Bell

    November 13-14, 2007
    Pilgrim Park

    Mark your calendar now for the next Day Away Retreat with Rev. John Bell of the Iona Community.

    Come for the day retreat on Wednesday, November 14 from 10a - 3pm, or arrive the day before on Tuesday, November 13, at 1pm for some quiet time and/or workshop opportunities. The evening of the 13th will hold a worship service coordinated by Rev Bell.

    Download the registration form and flyer HERE.

    For more information contact Rev. Mike Denton at CMA at revdenton@yahoo.com

    Janice Buchanan Ordination

    Janice Buchanan will be ordained by CMA on Sunday, November 11, 2007 at 3:00 pm at Epiphany United Church of Christ, 2008 W. Bradley Place, Chicago.

    Janice has been called as Chaplain of Black Mountain Center in Black Mountain, North Carolina (near Asheville) and has been serving there for three years.

    (Posted 6/19/07 - 11/9/07)
    Senior Minister First Congregational Church of Evanston

    First Congregational Church of Evanston, a 140-year-old church, seeks an outstanding leader to serve as senior minister. With a strong heritage and interest in contemporary issues, FCCE is looking for an experienced minister who is a thoughtful and thought-provoking preacher and spiritual leader with strong management skills.

    First Congregational has approximately 220 members, a tradition of outstanding music, and a thriving Christian education program. The church is located in Evanston, IL, a diverse suburban community just north of Chicago on Lake Michigan that is home to Northwestern University.

    Our Church profile is available at www.firstchurchevanston.org.

    Please e-mail your resume to fcce_search@ameritech.net or mail to Alan Cubbage, search committee chair, First Congregational Church of Evanston, 1417 Hinman Av, Evanston, IL 60201.

    TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2007: CRLN ANNUAL LUNCHEON

    The Chicago Religious Leadership Network on Latin America (CRLN) cordially invites you to their 2007 Annual Luncheon, which will focus on the political and social changes that have been taking place in Venezuela from the perspectives of two Catholic women: Venezuelan Sr. Eugenia (Jenny) Russián and American Maryknoll lay missioner Lisa Sullivan.

    This year’s Luncheon will be held on Tuesday, November 6, from 12 noon until 2 pm at a new location: Old St. Patrick's Catholic Church. We hope you will reserve the date on your calendar now!

    Sr. Jenny has been a religious woman for 15 years with the Congregation of the Institute of Missionary Catholic Sisters of Christ Jesús. She currently serves as Vice-president of the ecumenical Latin American Foundation for Human Rights and Social Development, which received a UN Peace award in the 1980's for its work with the disappeared of the Southern Cone. She is also Director of the Institute of Human Development and Social Economy, functioning in various areas of Caracas and the interior of the country to promote economic and social development, as well as working with poor families, adolescents, and children in her local parish. A dynamic speaker with a sophisticated understanding of the Venezuelan context and the church's role within it, Sr. Jenny's address is sure to be informative and stimulating.

    Lisa Sullivan is the Latin America Coordinator for the School of the Americas Watch (SOAW) and currently lives in Venezuela. Last year, she accompanied Fr. Roy Bourgeois and others from SOAW on a tour of Latin American countries to meet with government leaders and seek their pledges not to send military personnel from their countries to train at the School of the Americas (SOA). In response to their appeal, the presidents of Venezuela, Argentina, and Uruguay agreed to immediately withdraw their troops from the SOA, and Bolivian President Evo Morales agreed to gradually withdraw troops from the school! Lisa will translate for Sr. Jenny and add her own observations on current trends in Venezuela.

    This is an opportunity to hear first hand from both ecumenical & Catholic leaders working to empower the poor majority for inclusion in Venezuelan society. Sr. Jenny and Lisa Sullivan will speak to the most pressing issues confronting religious communities in Venezuela and how we, as religious leaders and U.S. citizens, can engage in meaningful relationship and dialogue with communities working for peace, justice and human rights in Venezuela.

    Chicago Religious Leadership Network on Latin America (CRLN)
    4750 N Sheridan Rd, Ste 429, Chicago IL 60640
    Tel: 773/293-2964, Fax: 773/293-3677

    TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2007: ADVOCATE HEALTH CARE TOWN HALL MEETING

    An Advocate Health Care Town Hall Meeting is scheduled for November 6, 2007, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Advocate Christ Medical Center, Room 629. The hospital is located at 4440 West 95th Street in Oak Lawn, Illinois. Complementary parking is available in the "East Parking Tower" located on South Kostner Avenue. When exiting the parking garage, please go to the main entrance of Hope Children's Hospital and sign in with the receptionist. Please remember to bring your parking ticket with you as the receptionist will validate it to ensure complementary parking. You will then be directed to Room 629 located in the connecting conference center building.

    Advocate Town Hall meeting attendees are also invited to arrive early for a complementary tour of Advocate Christ Medical Center. Tour participants are asked to gather in front of Room 629 promptly at 5:30 p.m. where the tour guide will greet you. Please follow the instructions above for parking and locating the meeting room.

    The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's (ELCA) clergy, congregation members and Metropolitan Chicago Synod Council/ELCA, as well as United Church of Christ's (UCC) clergy, congregation members and the Chicago Metropolitan, Eastern, Prairie and Fox Valley Association Councils/UCC are invited to attend. Advocate management representatives will review various topics impacting Advocate and the organization's ongoing activities, with ample time available for questions and answers.

    Please inform Lynn Rolseth if you plan to attend the meeting either via e-mail at lynn.rolseth@advocatehealth.com or by phone at 630-990-5391. If you wish to participate in the tour, please also inform Lynn of your desire to do so.

    SATURDAY & SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 3 & 4: WORSHIP ALIVE! WORKSHOP

    An outstanding series of workshops are planned for Worship Alive! again this coming year. Here are the workshop titles and leaders:

  • November 3-4, 2007: The Church in Africa Sings with Dr. Patrick Matsikenyiri

  • January 12-13, 2008: The Lively Word: Worship that Rattles the Teacups with Dr. Jana Childers

  • February 23-24, 2008: Reclaiming Sacramental Practices with Rev. Chip Andrus

  • April 19-20, 2008: Roots and Wings for Transformative Worship with Elise Eslinger

    Download the brochure with complete information on these workshops. Copies will be mailed soon.

    Note that once again this year each workshop will be offered twice: on Saturday afternoon at the Presbyterian Church of Western Springs and on Sunday afternoon at the United Church of Rogers Park. In response to feedback received, we have lengthened each workshop by 30 minutes--they will now start at 2:00 p.m. and end at 5:00 p.m. The costs remain the same as previous years.

    If you have any questions or need additional information or brochures, please contact Mark Bowman, Worship Alive! coordinator, at: worshipalive@comcast.net

    We look forward to seeing you at this year's workshops. Together we can enable and empower our churches to reclaim and reinvigorate their worship lives.

    FRIDAY - SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2-4: HEALTH CARE SABBATH

    The 2007 Health Care Sabbath is November 2-4.

    Download the Flyer Here.

    The Congregational Advocacy Toolkit is now ready for 2007.