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Archived Events and News Previously Posted on the CMA Website
in, for or through OCTOBER 2005
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30: WORSHIP ALIVE WORKSHOP
The first workshop for the coming year will be held on Sunday afternoon from
2:30 to 5:00 PM at the United Church of Rogers Park, 1545 W. Morse Avenue, Chicago.
with Dr. James Abbington as trainer.
Worship Alive is an interactive workshop for worship planners and leaders with
renowned worship practitioners and trainers. These workshops are for clergy,
musicians, seminarians, and lay persons of all denominations involved in planning
and leading worship.
The workshops model worship experiences that:
are multisensory, participatory and inspiring;
celebrate multicultural diversity;
embody God’s all-embracing love in Jesus Christ; and
move persons and communities to acts of justice and liberation.
Future workshops and trainers will be:
January 15, 2006: Dr. John L. Bell
March 5, 2006: Dr. Marcia McFee
April 30, 2006: Mark Bowman
To find out more and to register, go to the:
Worship Alive Web Site.
CEUs for clergy and ministry professionals are available through
Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary for participation in all four workshops.
For additional information contact Mark Bowman at 773-728-8274 or at:
worshipalive@comcast.net
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29: WELLINGTON AVENUE UCC AWARDS BENEFIT
Wellington Avenue United Church of Christ presents their 2nd Annual Elizabeth I.
Benson Awards Benefit on Saturday, October 29, 2005 at 6:00 PM at the church,
615 W. Wellington Avenue, Chicago.
This year's benefit will honor Kathy Kelly of Voices in the Wilderness and
Rev. Dr. Sid L. Mohn of the Heartland Alliance for Human Needs & Human Rights
6:00 PM Wine & Hors d'oeuvre Reception and Silent Auction
7:00 PM Awards Presentations by Studs Terkel and the Honorable Jan Schakowsky,
U.S. Representative
8:30 PM Screening In a Time of Siege: Voices in the Wilderness Defying Sanctions
and War in Iraq, a documentary about Voices in the Wilderness by Jackie
Rivet-River, Peace Productions
Master of Ceremonies, Jerome McDonnell
Each day we hear another tragic story of torture or life lost in Iraq as a result
of the U.S. occupation of Iraq. What we don’t hear about is the work that is being
carried out by people and organizations here in Chicago, who work courageously,
and tirelessly to end the occupation and provide help for victims of violence and torture.
This event will provide an opportunity for Chicago-area human rights activists
to gather together to celebrate the vital work carried out by these organizations on
behalf of our sisters and brothers in Iraq. It also will raise funds to support the
ongoing social justice work by Wellington Avenue United Church of Christ, which
includes sanctuary for human rights activists. In times such as these, when we
often feel despair and discouragement, we want to celebrate and lift up those who
work to bring about healing to those who have been, and continue to be, victims of violence.
To purchase tickets or ads visit
www.wellingtonaveucc.org
or Call Barbara England at 773-848-0470.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29: SPIRIT SATURDAYS AT BETHANY UCC
Bethany United Church of Christ in Chicago invites you to
SPIRIT SATURDAYS
a new experience in worship and community that began Saturday, October 1, 2005
To see an original work of art created for Spirit Saturdays by Chicago artist Nicole
Macaluso, click here
WEEKLY WORSHIP AT 5 PM:
Music * Silence * Scripture * Non-Scripture Readings * Weekly Communion
Rooted in the Taize tradition, incorporating world music and jazz
Creative contributions in music and the arts welcome
Monthly services for peace/justice and healing
Upcoming Service Theme for October 29: Service of Remembrance
WEEKLY COMMUNITY BUILDING ACTIVITIES FOLLOWING WORSHIP
Book Group every First Saturday - Upcoming Book Group Titles:
- November 5: Rescuing the Bible from Fundamentalism by John Shelby Spong
- December 3: The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom
Game Night every Second Saturday
Option for a Dinner Group as interest dictates
Movie Groups, Social Justice Speakers, and other activities as interest indicates
Perfect for singles, students, and families
For directions and more information, visit our website
WWW.BETHANYCHICAGO.COM
Bethany United Church of Christ
4250 N. Paulina St.
Chicago, IL 60613
Phone: 773-472-0729; Fax: 773-472-1096
bethanychicago@sbcglobal.net
Beau Surratt, Office Secretary and Spirit Saturdays Musician
Donna Goodnow, Seminarian - Stephen Hargreaves, Director of Music
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27: ADVENT-CHRISTMAS PREACHING WORKSHOP
Who is this Christ for whom we look?
Dr. Laurel Schneider, Associate Professor of Theology, Ethics and Culture,
Chicago Theological Seminary
Why are people coming to church at this time?
Dr. Michael H. Montgomery, Fellow, Ph.D. Center, Chicago Theological Seminary
How can I use music to enrich our worship in December?
Mr. Robert E. Wooten, Jr. Music Director, Trinity United Church of Christ
This workshop will explore the intersections of meaning and human need in which our
preaching and worship are rooted. We will explore, reflect and appropriate ways in
which we may celebrate the birth of Jesus as good news to real people.
Thursday, October 27, 2005; 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Plymouth Place, 315 N. LaGrange Rd, LaGrange Park, IL 60526; 708-354-0340;
www.plymouthplace.org
Directions: From I-294 (Tri-State): Exit east on Ogden Avenue. Continue east to LaGrange
Road (Route 45). Travel north on LaGrange Road 1-1/2 blocks to Plymouth Place.
Parking: Available in the Jewel Grocery Store parking lot located north of Plymouth Place.
A shuttle bus will take guests to Plymouth Place.
For more information, contact the CTS Events Line at 773-322-0275 or send an email to
Michael Montgomery at
mmontgomery1@ctschicago.edu.
Cancellation: Refunds will be given only if requested 72 hours in advance. In case of inclement weather, the event will start one hour later.
Lunch will be provided
To register, download the registration form
and send it with your payment of $30 by October 18, 2005 to the Office of Development and
External Affairs, Chicago Theological Seminary, 5757 S. University Ave., Chicago, IL 60637.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27: ADVOCATE'S PASTORAL CARE WEEK PROGRAM
Pastoral Care Week Recognition and Seminar: Healing Wisdom
Thursday, October 27, 2005; 8:30 am - 1:00 pm
Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center - Olson Auditorium, 836 W.
Wellington Av, Chicago, IL 60657
Join us for our Pastoral Care Week Recognition and Seminar. We are so
excited to invite you to join us for recognition of all that you do
in providing spiritual care in our community!
Pastoral Care Week 2005 will be held from October 23rd through the
29th across the United States. We would like to celebrate this special
week with you as our partner in providing pastoral and spiritual care.
Our patients, their families and the staff benefit greatly from the
care you provide. Your role is so critical in the healing process
of the patients you visit. We invite you to this day in recognition
of the pivotal work you do, as well as an opportunity to gather and
learn with the whole community of spiritual care providers.
Presentations:
Ministry in Trauma and Disaster:
This seminar will explore the unique role of clergy and pastoral
visitors in providing ministry to people suffering traumatic loss and
disaster. Participants will probe the theological foundations of
providing a comforting presence to people in disaster. Attention will
be paid to the mass casualty preparedness in Chicago. Facilitated by
Rev. Kevin Massey, BCC, Coordinator, Mission and Spiritual Care.
Clergy Self-Care:
This workshop will assist participants in examining their health
and wellness as clergy from a comprehensive perspective. In addition
to an examination of the signs and symptoms of clergy health imbalance,
participants will look at the preventive spiritual disciplines for
on-going clergy health and healing. Facilitated by Rev. Dr. Homer Ashby,
Ph.D., AAPC Fellow, W. Clement and Jessie V. Stone Professor of Pastoral
Care, McCormick Theological Seminary
Program:
8:30 - 9:00 am Coffee, Registration, and Welcome
9:00 - 10:15 am Ministry in Trauma and Disaster
10:15 - 10:30 am Break
10:30 - 11:45 am Clergy Self-Care
11:45 - 12:05 Tour of Mission & Spiritual Care
12:15 pm Luncheon and Recognition in the Back Area of the Rendezvous
Café at Illinois Masonic Medical Center
History of Pastoral Care Week:
The first Pastoral Care Week was held in October 1985. Since then it
has grown beyond national to international proportions. The celebration
of Pastoral Care Week provides an opportunity for clergy, lay professionals,
chaplains and pastoral care counselors, educators and providers to share
their story and to celebrate various ministries. More specifically, the
established objectives of the National Pastoral Care Week Committee
outline the scope of Pastoral Care Week observance to:
Celebrate the education for and practice of spiritual care through professional chaplaincy and pastoral counseling.
Interpret and promote pastoral care.
Honor and celebrate all practitioners of pastoral care.
Express appreciation to institutions and their staff who support pastoral care ministries.
Promote continuing education for clergy, laity, and institutional employees regarding the value of pastoral care.
To register by mail, return the completed form to:
Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center
c/o Brandi Rose
Office of Mission and Spiritual Care
836 West Wellington Av
Chicago, IL 60657
Or fax to: 773-296-5010
Or email: Brandi.Rose@advocatehealth.com
Or to Register by Phone: 773-296-5005
A free lunch will be provided for those who register and validated parking
is available in the parking garage.
Download REGISTRATION FORM
Download Flyer (PDF)
Download Flyer in Spanish (PDF)
Download Flyer Text
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 26: CRLN LUNCHEON MEETING ON AFRO-COLUMBIAN HUMAN RIGHTS
The Chicago Religious Leadership Network on Latin America (CRLN) will host a luncheon meeting
featuring Afro-Columbian Human Rights Advocate Zulia Mena.
The meeting will be held at the Episcopal Church Center, 65 East Huron in Chicago on
Wednesday, October 26, 2005 from 12 noon to 2pm. Cost is $40 per person (as a fund raiser
for CRLN and Afro-Columbian women's organizations in Columbia.
RSVP by Thursday, Oct 20 to 773-293-2964
CHICAGO PEACE ALERT
The 2,000th U.S. military casualty in Iraq was reported on
October 25, 2005.
On Wednesday, October 26, 2005 at 5pm the American Friends Service Committee
(AFSC) will hold an event to commemorate this tragic milestone at the
Federal Plaza by the Kluczynski Federal Building, 230 S. Dearborn St
(between Jackson and Adams) in Chicago.
Please Join Us! Bring yourself and or your group to help carry a large scale,
lightweight memorial to the US and Iraqi casualties of the war. Please see
the AFSC website (www.afsc.org) for
more Chicago and other national locations.
For information on the Federal Plaza event call 312-427-2533.
Not One More Death. Not One More Dollar
On October 26 people will gather in communities across the U.S.
to say that the country’s pro-peace majority wants Congress
to stop the deaths by stopping the dollars that are funding the war.
AFSC, Military Families Speak Out, and Gold Star Families for Peace are calling
for people across the U.S. to stand up and say that the needless killing of U.S.
troops and Iraqis must stop and that the resources funding this war are
needed for other things.
Events to mark the 2,000th U.S. military casualty will range from candlelight
vigils to public actions that illustrate the size of the death toll. On AFSC’s
No More Deaths, No More Dollars campaign center at
www.afsc.org, you will find supporting
materials and suggestions for events that meet the needs of your community.
We’re asking that you think along these two lines:
The Iraq War has already committed us to aiding a generation of veterans and their
families and to rebuilding Iraq.
We need to meet these just obligations and stop the funding for further destruction so
that our resources can be used to strengthen our communities and help those in need.
These are two types of actions we suggest:
1. Public actions at congressional offices, federal buildings and other appropriate spaces
with 2,000 representations of the lives lost.
This could be 2,000 candles, 2,000 gold stars, or 2,000 placards with the name, rank,
age and home state of each casualty with a photo of a pair of boots. We also ask that you
find ways to recognize the tens of thousands Iraqi deaths. (Boot placards, star patterns,
signs, and other materials are available at www.afsc.org)
2. Sign the call to Congress to end funding for the war and work with other organizers in
your state to carry the message to your legislators in the month after the 2,000th reported
casualty. (Further legislative information will be forthcoming.)
From AFSC:
The American Friends Service Committee believes that there is no military solution to the
Iraq war. Continued fighting and occupation promises only further deaths and injuries,
more widows and orphans, more separated families.
The U.S. is spending over $5.6 billion a month to fight this war - over $200 billion total
to date. The devastation of Hurricane Katrina and the hard truths it brought home about
who does and doesn’t have access to the American Dream tells us all how desperately these
resources are needed in other areas.
The U.S. Constitution gives the Congress financial oversight. The time has come for our
elected representatives to listen to the country’s pro-peace majority and end funding for
this war.
Working solutions for Iraq will be political solutions. Diplomacy and dialogue in close
cooperation with the Iraqi government and broad sectors of Iraqi society are the way forward
to peace and to rebuilding the U.S.’s strained relationship with the international community.
Working together, we will end this war.
American Friends Service Committee
www.afsc.org
Great Lakes Region - Chicago Office
Michael McConnell
Regional Director
637 S. Dearborn, 3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60605
Phone: 312-427-2533
Fax: 312-427-4171
Email: afscchicago@igc.org
Tues, Oct 25, 7p — CLUSTER FIVE Meeting at Covenant UCC, 1130
East 154th Street, South Holland, IL 60473 (708-333-5955); topic is youth
ministry; we will not have a dinner this month but Covenant would
appreciate a call if you are attending so they know how many to prepare for.
Tues, Oct 25, 6p — Cluster 4 Meeting; Dinner @ 6pm, Meeting @ 7pm;
Speaker: Ben Guess, Editor of UCNews; topic: The Future of the UCC.
At St. John's UCC, 4500 Prescott Ave, Lyons, IL 60534; $8 donation for
the meal; RSVP to 708-447-0309
MONDAY, OCTOBER 24: Enlivening Congregational Singing
A Series of five hands-on training sessions for church musicians, worship leaders
and clergy that builds skills in leading and strengthening congregational singing.
Monday evenings--October 17, 24, 31, November 7 plus 5th session to be determined.
Exact time and location to be determined for convenience of participants.
Each three-hour session includes presentation and discussion of topics such as:
role of music and singing in worship
skills for effective song leading
creating environment that enhances singing
selecting sacred repertoire
tips for introducing new songs
teaching groups to sing in harmony
using choir to enable congregational singing
PLUS opportunity for all participants to practice leading singing.
COST: $150
Facilitated by Mark Bowman, minister of music at the United Church of Rogers Park
in Chicago. Over the past five years Mark has enlivened congregational singing and
crafted a new repertoire of spirited song in this multi-cultural congregation. He
has studied congregational singing and worship song with John Bell, Ruth Duck,
Marty Haugen, Michael Hawn, Jorge Lockward, Marcia McFee, Brian Wren and others.
He also brings his passion for worship renewal and spirited congregational singing
to Chicago area churches through the Worship Alive! workshop series.
What past seminar participants have said:
"This seminar affirmed my belief in the importance of song-leading....The song-leading
practice was very worthwhile."
"Leading the congregation in song is a challenge in our churches because we are no longer
a culture of group singing. The skills for song-leading are easily learned and add
substantially to the full participation of the congregation in worshiping and experiencing God."
"I recommend this class to anyone who wants to use music more effectively in worship...
and increase participation of the congregation in singing songs and hymns."
For additional information contact Mark Bowman at 773-728-8274 or at:
worshipalive@comcast.net
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23: CHICAGO CROP WALK
The 23rd Annual Chicago CROP WALK Against Hunger will Raise Funds for Katrina Victims.
This year's walk will be on Sunday, October 23, 2005 -
1:00 pm: Registration and music concert by Last Minute Music at University
of Illinois at Chicago, Student Center East, 750 S. Halsted, Chicago
2:00 pm: Step off from the UIC Lecture Center
It is hoped that more than 1000 people can raise $80,000 to help local hunger programs
and overseas relief. Donations will be raised through cash sponsorships solicited by the
walkers themselves, based upon their participation in the 6.2 mile walk. There will also
be a "golden mile" route. Volunteer walkers can call 888-297-2767 for sponsor sheets,
or contact one of over 50 congregations, schools and businesses that are walking.
Local food banks and pantries will receive 25 percent of the money raised to help
feed hungry people. The remaining 75 percent will go through Church World Service
(CWS) and other international relief agencies to provide food and disaster relief
in more than 80 countries, including the USA
Church World Service was among the first agencies to respond to Hurricane Katrina
victims - with blankets, health kits, medicine boxes and other desperately needed
supplies. And CWS will be there, long after the story is off the front pages of
the news, helping to rebuild shattered lives and homes. CWS is still active in
Florida, working with survivors from 2004 hurricanes that left many people homeless.
The main reason CWS is able to make swift and effective response to disasters such
as the Tsunami and, currently, Hurricane Katrina, is, in large part because of
the on-going support from CROP WALKS. The Chicago CROP WALK is one of nearly
2000 annual WALKS held in communities across the nation. The Chicago CROP WALK
is the "signature" CROP WALK for more than 50 WALKS to be held this fall in
Northern Illinois. More than 15,000 walkers are expected to put their 'soles'
to the concrete and help stomp out hunger by raising over $1 Million from hundreds of donors.
For more information about the Chicago CROP WALK and how to obtain a CROPWALKER
Envelope (sponsor form) please call 1-888-297-2767 or visit
www.chicagocropwalk.org.
To learn more about CWS and Hurricane Katrina relief go to
www.churchworldservice.org.
To get information on any of the other CROP WALKS in the area, call 1-888-297-2767.
(Posted 08/03/05 - 10/18/05)
SUNDAY SCHOOL YOUTH MINISTER CHRIST CHURCH UCC, DES PLAINES
Christ Church, United Church of Christ, in Des Plaines, IL is seeking a Youth
Minister to lead our Sunday School. This is a part-time position, approximately
10-12 hours per week, that pays $10-$12 per hour.
The Youth Minister will plan and oversee our children’s Christian Education
Program, working under the Church’s guidelines. Responsibilities include
evaluating, selecting (with the consent of the Pastors) and implementing the
curriculum, guiding and training teachers, internal & external communications,
maintaining appropriate records, planning (with the help of others) periodic
youth activities, etc. Knowledge and understanding of the theology of the
United Church of Christ is important.
Please send a resume or letter to Christ Church, 1492 Henry, Des Plaines, IL
60016, or fax to Christ Church at 847-297-4231, or e-mail to
smith2001@wideopenwest.com.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16: ST PAULS HOUSE WINE TASTING & FUNDRAISER
St. Pauls House & Health Care Center announces its first annual wine tasting and
fundraiser in support of its Charity Care Foundation to be held on Sunday, October 16,
2005, from 1:00 - 4:00 pm. The donation is $25.00 per person.
St. Pauls House & Health Care Center is an assisted living and skilled nursing facility
located on the north side of Chicago whose mission is to provide housing and care to
the elderly in a spiritual environment. As part of that mission, St. Pauls House
Charity Care Foundation subsidizes the living expenses for those residents whose
funds have been exhausted.
St. Pauls House & Health Care Center cordially invites its friends from the United
Church of Christ and other surrounding churches to visit our community, meet the
staff and Board of Directors as you enjoy fine wine and appetizers and listen to
blues played by Keith Scott.
Petersons Wine Cellars of Naperville will offer many wines for your tasting pleasure
and purchase. A portion of the proceeds from all wine sales will be donated to the St.
Pauls House Charity Care Foundation.
In addition to wine sales, a selection of items will be available for purchase
through a silent auction. St. Pauls will happily accept any donations to the
silent auction. If you or your group is interested in donating an item or gift
basket, please contact Kathy Groth at (773) 205-0477.
Please join us for A Taste for the House and enjoy a pleasant afternoon of good wine,
good food, good music and good company.
To purchase advance tickets or obtain further information, please contact:
Kathy Groth at (773) 205-0477.
St. Pauls House & Health Care Center
3800 N. California Avenue
Chicago, IL 60618
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15: CMA ANNUAL FALL MEETING
First United Church of Oak Park
848 Lake Street, Oak Park, IL 60301
Saturday, October 15, 2005
7:45 AM - 1:30 PM
Theme: CMA IN THE 21st CENTURY:
How do we exist as an Association?
Guest Preacher: The Rev. Duayne Meyer
Pastor of Northfield Community Church
Greetings to all CMA Laity and Clergy, Congregations, and affiliated social, health and
educational agencies & institutions. We are called to gather on October 15, 2005 at
First United Church of Oak Park for worship, reflection and fellowship in our Fall Meeting.
This meeting will feature three 90 minute workshops. You can choose which
workshop to attend:
1. Strengths and stresses in the covenant between the local church, CMA, the Illinois
Conference, and the United Church of Christ in its national setting. Tom Heuss, convener.
2. General Synod XXV impact on the local church and CMA.
3. Conflict within the local churches and CMA. Illinois Conference Conflict Mediation
Team. Dorothy Auw, convener.
Our worship service will also feature the choir from Harvard Family UCC of Oak Park.
Our meeting begins with registration and continental breakfast at 7:45 am and ends at
1:30 pm after lunch.
We urge every clergy person working in the Association to be present and each CMA church
to be represented. All local church members, representatives from our affiliated agencies
and all friends of CMA are also encouraged to attend.
The registration fee of $15 ($5 for those In Care with CMA) includes continental breakfast
and lunch. A registration form may be downloaded here in
WORD Format or
PDF Format.
A separate form should be filled out for each person who will attend.
Please mail or fax your registration form and mail your registration fee (payable to CMA)
to us by the registration deadline of October 7. Mail to CMA, 332 S Michigan Ave
#510, Chicago, IL 60604; or fax to 312-939-1116.
MEETING SCHEDULE:
7:45 am - Registration and Continental Breakfast
8:30 am - Welcome and Worship
9:30 am - Announcements
9:45 am - Break
10:00 a - Workshops: select one of the three workshops to attend
11:30 a - Plenary Session
12:00 n - CTS 150th Anniversary Celebration
12:30 p - Lunch
1:30 pm - Adjourn
You can download the meeting Call Letter in
WORD Format or
PDF Format.
You can download Directions to the meeting in
WORD Format or
PDF Format.
Disaster Housing Meeting
The Disaster Ministries of the Chicago Metropolitan Association is sponsoring a meeting
to share information and discuss issues related to housing ministry for disaster victims.
This meeting will explore whether there is unmet need from recent disasters, and explore
how we can prepare for a housing ministry in the event of future disasters.
This gathering will be held at St. John’s UCC, 4500 Prescott Avenue in Lyons, Illinois,
on Wednesday, October 12 at 7:30 PM.
If your congregation, related organization or institution is now providing housing for
disaster victims, or if you are considering providing short-term or longer term resettlement
for disaster victims in the future, you are invited and encouraged to attend this gathering.
Representatives from the American Red Cross and FEMA are being invited to attend. We
will also hear from the Interfaith Refugee and Immigration Ministries, whose congregational
model for housing of disaster victims is being considered.
You are encouraged to RSVP to aandbmc@msn.com
or call the church at 708-447-0309. If you have questions or concerns prior to the
gathering you may call Andrea and Bennett McNeal at 708-447-4029.
Upcoming Events:
- Illinois Assn of Trained Intentional Interim Ministers Conference: October 5-6, 2005
- UCC Midwest Seminarians Conference in Cleveland: October 7-9, 2005
(Posted 02/28/05 - 10/06/05)
ASSOCIATE PASTOR: FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, Western Springs, Illinois
The First Congregational Church United Church of Christ of Western Springs, Illinois,
with a membership of 1430, is seeking an associate pastor, who is a compassionate and
caring person of faith. This person will help to develop and lead the spiritual life of
the children, youth and families within the church and surrounding communities. This
person should be skilled in leading and developing programs that take into account the
issues facing today's youth and families. The candidate will also help address the church's
mission and supplement existing programs through their gifts and personal faith,
including creating a sense of fellowship and inclusion for all involved. He/she will
be comfortable sharing their faith in an open way and model a Christian approach in all
aspects of life. If ordained, this person will also take part in all aspects of the
church's mission, worship leadership and congregational pastoral care.
If you would like to have your profile forwarded to this congregation, please contact
Rev. Michael Denton at CMA by email
or by phone at 312-939-5918.
2006 LEEAP Grant Applications due October 1
Announcing the year 2006 Funding Cycle for Local Evangelism, Envisioning And
Planting/LEEAP grants from the Illinois Conference, United Church of Christ:
Each year the Illinois Conference extends to its churches and associations
an opportunity to request funding in the form of loans and grants for new
church starts and the revitalization of existing congregations.
If you and/or your church wish to submit a request, please contact the
Illinois Conference at 708-344-4470 or by email to illconfjorge@aol.com and
request an application form.
The deadline for applying for grants for calendar year 2006 is October 1,
2005.
A revitalization project must originate from the congregation and have broad
congregational support. It must provide a clear and compelling vision of how
the project will aid the church in discerning and or implementing what God
is calling the church to be and to do that is new.
LEEAP does the evangelistic mission of the church through new church
development and the revitalization of existing churches.
LEEAP does not fund:
Existing budgets and programs
Building accessibility
Computers and equipment
In place staff (except church planter)
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1: GOOD NEWS COMMUNITY KITCHEN BANQUET & BENEFIT
The 2nd Annual Good News Community Kitchen Celebrating Good Works Award Banquet
and Benefit will be held this year on Saturday, October 1 - beginning at 5:30 PM -
at the White Eagle in Niles. Tickets are $50. Download a flyer and registration form
HERE.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1: UCC CONFIRMATION DAY AT ELMHURST COLLEGE
Each year Elmhurst College hosts this event for UCC Junior high and Senior
high youth who have recently been or are soon to be confirmed.
Typically this is a half-day event, beginning with breakfast at the college
at 8:00 or 8:30 a.m., followed by small group activities (such as crafts,
games, music) and usually includes a gueat speaker and/or worship. The day
usually ends by around noon.
Save the Date cards have recently been sent to UCC congregations in
Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Indiana and Missouri. This year's event is
sponsored by the DEPTH Program at Chicago Theological Seminary. More
specific details will be available soon!
For more information contact the Chaplain's Office at Elmhurst College at
630-617-3462
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1: FALL STEWARDSHIP EVENT
God is Still Speaking about Stewardship
The Illinois Conference fall stewardship event will be held at Peace
Memorial Church UCC, Palos Park on October 1, 2005 from 9:30 am to 3:00 pm.
The main speaker will be the Rev. Stephen C. Gray, Indiana-Kentucky
Conference Minister and author of Mission Giving in the United Church of
Christ. Rev. Gray is a long-time stewardship consultant and trainer.
There will also be four workshops on the "Still Speaking God" and Covenant, Generosity,
Mission and Abundance:
Workshop #1
God is Still Speaking about COVENANT
Led by: Constance King, Financial Consultant and member of Trinity United
Church of Christ, Chicago.
Workshop #2
God is Still Speaking about GENEROSITY
Led by: Migdalia Morales, a Consecrated Steward and member of La Primera
Iglesia Congregacional de Chicago.
Workshop #3
God is Still Speaking about ABUNDANCE
Led by: Larry McCure and the Rev. Pamela G. Smith.
Larry is a Consecrated Steward and member of the First Congregational
Church, Lockport. Pamela is pastor in Wyoming, Ill., who served as
Associate Steward for our Conference in partnership with the Stewardship and
Church Finance Ministry of the national church.
Workshop #4
God is Still Speaking about MISSION
Led by: Barbara and Rev. Donald Schmidt
Barbara has for more than fifteen years served as a passionate member of our
Conference Stewardship Team. She and Don a retired UCC pastor host
missionaries, do stewardship training and promote the wider mission of the
church in Illinois and beyond.
The cost of registration for the event and lunch is $10.00 per church for
the first person registered and $5.00 for each additional participant from
the same church. The participation of two or more members from each
congregation is encouraged.
For more information go to www.ilucc.org and
download the brochure/registration form. You can also register by calling the
Conference office or by sending an e-mail to:
illconfcarmen@aol.com
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1: HURRICANE BENEFIT BAND CONCERT
Hurricane Benefit Band Concert in Berwyn, Saturday, October 1st from 3 PM to 5 PM
Everyone is invited! Join us on the lawn of Trinity Community Church UCC,
7022 Riverside Drive, 26th Street & Riverside Drive, Berwyn.
The special Hurricane Benefit Band Concert features the Baby Boomer Sounds of the
Boom Tones. Free parking all along Riverside Drive. Bring your dancing
shoes, lawn chair, and a friend!
Freewill donation will be taken for Church World Service (checks, cash, and money
orders accepted). Church World Service is a cooperative humanitarian ministry of
36 Protestant, Orthodox, and Anglican denominations. Refreshments will also be
available (refreshment proceeds support Trinity’s Christian Education activities).
For more information and map visit our website:
www.TCCUCC.com
Rev. Bill Ressl
Trinity Community Church, UCC
7022 Riverside Drive, Berwyn, IL
Phone: 708-484-1818
email: BillRessl@yahoo.com
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 - SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1: IN CARE BOUNDARY TRAINING
A Boundary Training Workshop for those In Care with CMA has been scheduled for
September 30 - October 1, 2005. The program will begin on Friday at 12:30 pm and run
through 8:30 pm that night. The Saturday program will begin at 9:30 am and end at 4:30
pm. The cost for In Care boundary training will be $10. The training will take place
at the CMA office in downtown Chicago.
If you wish to reserve a place for this training, please call Bertha at CMA
to have your name put on the reservation list.
The next In Care boundary training after this will be Friday and Saturday, March
17 and 18, 2006.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 - SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1: ILLINOIS CONFERENCE WOMEN'S RETREAT
The annual UCC Illinois Conference Women's Retreat will be held September 30 and October 1,
2005 at Pilgrim Park. This year's retreat, entitled "And Sarah Laughed!" will be led by
Rev. Dr. Keran Olm-Stoelting.
God will fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy! --- Job 8:21.
Come laugh, play, dance, sing and explore the seasons of your life thru humor.
Sponsored by Illinois Conference Women in Church and Society. Call Linda for more
information at 815-478-4900.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 - SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2: CTS PRESENTS COLORING OUTSIDE THE LINES
Chicago Theological Seminary in Chicago presents COLORING OUTSIDE THE LINES, a weekend
program of arts-ministry-justice-theology on Friday, Saturday & Sunday, September 30,
October 1 & October 2, 2005
On-line registration is NOW AVAILABLE at:
www.ctschicago.edu/coloring
Come:
Sculpt a new future for CTS
paint a just and vital community
draw bridges across difference
sing a new humanity
Share:
a night of open mic performance & exhibition
a day of retreat and renewal
a morning envisioning next steps
With:
Rev. Bliss Browne
Ken Medema
Valerie Tutson
CTS artists and friends
Friday, September 30, 7-10 pm: Celebrating the Artists Among Us
Come at 7pm for a gallery opening and reception featuring local artists who work
at the intersections of community, spirituality, and activism.
At 8pm we'll gather for open mic music, poetry, and performance. Reserve a seat
or a performance slot by registering online.
Saturday, October 1, 9am to 9pm: The Art of Community All Day Retreat
Registration Required
On this day of retreat and renewal we will build community through the arts and
create art in collaboration with one another. Facilitators Bliss Browne and Valerie
Tutson will guide us in story gathering and ritual, joined by visual and performing
artists committed to transforming community through vision, imagination and action.
Participants will work in large and small groups, exploring a wide range of artistic
and facilitative processes. The stories we bring will activate the vital links among
creativity, social action, and belonging. We will practice deeper forms of communication,
forge new connections, and find spiritual practices that sustain and challenge us.
Our meals will feature international cuisine prepared by communities connected to CTS
through our student body. We'll enjoy a lunchtime concert by renowned social justice
story telling musician Ken Medema. MDiv students Rachel Bahr Attanasie and Tiffany Trent
will help us rehearse our future with the revolutionary process of Forum Theater.
In the evening we'll offer up the labors of our day in vespers worship.
Sunday morning, we'll prayerfully name next steps. Our work will be our play.
The student and alum planning team offers this event as a faithful attempt to engage
the gifts and needs of our beloved communities. For this reason, we seek to strengthen
the community that gathers while exploring ways that the arts can help us confront and
undo racism, homophobia and related social injustices.
To help us with this charge, we invoke the question of Augusto Boal in his literacy
experiment with People's Theater of Peru, as described in Theatre of the Oppressed (1979):
Where do you live?
Boal's question calls forth images, memories, sounds, tastes and smells that are at
once intimate, communal, economic, racial, environmental, bodily, and deeply spiritual.
We will ask this question of one another and dare to hear, see, and touch the answers.
Sample activities:
The storytelling game
Rehearsing Against Racism
Psalm Writing
Painting meditation
Registrants are encouraged to submit any activities, skills, or interests you would
like to share in the space available on the online registration form.
Sunday, October 2, 9am to 12pm: Creating Our Future: What's Next?
This time is set aside for those who wish to continue the work of Saturday forward
to the next levels in the places where we live and work. We'll worship, envision,
and plan next steps. Specific attention will be given to the life of the CTS community,
and our hopes for the next 150 years.
ALL ARE WELCOME!
For more information, contact Lydia York at CTS at 773-322-0274 or at:
coloring@ctschicago.edu
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