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Archived Events and News Previously Posted on the CMA Website
in, for or through OCTOBER 2006
(Posted 08/18/06 thru 10/31/06)
Part-time Youth Pastor First Congregational Church of LaGrange
First Congregational Church of LaGrange is looking for a part time youth minister.
Responsibilities include working with high school age youth, organizing and
facilitating weekly gatherings, outreach projects, social activities, retreats
and work trips. The candidate would have a desire to relate to and nurture
continued spiritual growth among teens. Available minimum 15 hours per week.
September 06 - September 07. Compensation is negotiable. To learn more about
our church, visit our website: www.fcclg.org
If interested, please contact Rev. Steve Lucas at 708-352-0800.
(Posted 08/18/06 thru 10/31/06)
Part-time Director for Family Ministries Christ Church of Chicago
Christ Church of Chicago, an urban, dynamic and ethnically diverse congregation
with Japanese-American roots, is seeking a part-time Director for Family Ministries.
Primary responsibilities will be to develop and provide leadership and/or support
for the church’s programs in the areas of: children, youth and family ministries
and outreach to the community.
Specific responsibilities include:
Provide leadership, supervision and guidance to strengthen church events and
programs that will bring families together for fellowship and mission
Development of new educational experiences for children and youth
Evaluate current Sunday School curriculum and then modify, develop and oversee
new Sunday School models, including the rotational Sunday School model
Lead recreational and mission activities for youth and families
Help church volunteers develop, promote and lead Vacation Bible School
Plan Easter Sunrise Service along with Christ Church’s minister and Youth Advisors
We hope to find a Director for Family Ministries who has an energetic and engaging
personality to develop personal relationships with individuals, families and the
youth in our congregation. We also hope this person will be able to work effectively
with members of the Christian Education Board and the church staff.
Other personal characteristics include: a contagious love for the message of
Jesus Christ, an enthusiasm for family and youth ministries, an ability to
establish and sustain enduring relationships with people of diverse age groups
and life stages, and good communication skills.
Finally, we seek a confident, open and approachable individual who is comfortable
with the theological views of Christ Church, who has a good sense of humor and
who wants to be part of a loving, caring, dynamic and growing congregation.
Work Hours: 12 hours/week including Sunday mornings.
Contact: Rev. Paulo Gustavo França, 6047 N Rockwell Street, Chicago, IL 60659;
773-338-8170 (Monday-Thursday from 9 AM to 5 PM).
(Posted 08/17/06 thru 10/31/06)
Secretary for National Church Associates Program Elmhurst College
The Secretary for the National Church Associates Program is a Full-Time position
in the Chaplain’s Office at Elmhurst College in Elmhurst, Illinois.
The secretary serves as primary staff for the National Church Associates of
Elmhurst College, building a national movement of primarily UCC clergy of the
United Church of Christ. This position will also provide general secretarial
support as needed with the secretary of the Chaplain and staff of the Chaplaincy.
The NCA secretary maintains liaison with the members of the NCA, works closely
with the executive committee of the NCA, coordinates the annual NCA Conference
and regional gatherings and assists in the conduct of event planning, completion
of programs and strategy development for Elmhurst College and the NCA; nurtures
and supports UCC relations and students for on-campus community work with the
Admissions Office, Theology Dept. and the Niebuhr Center; maintains all records
and budget oversight of the NCA, working with the College and nurturing relations
with the local, regional and national UCC staff offices; other duties as assigned.
Schedule: this position is full time at 32½ hours per week.
Qualifications: some functions require presence at evening/weekend events;
proficient in Microsoft Office including spreadsheet knowledge; good interpersonal,
organizational and telephone skills; ability to prioritize and complete multiple
tasks; and willingness to learn advanced computer skills. Prior event planning
experience is helpful.
To apply: send resume to Human Resources, Elmhurst College, 190 Prospect Ave.,
Elmhurst, IL 60126 or email to hr@elmhurst.edu
Elmhurst College is an equal opportunity employer fully committed to achieving
a diverse workforce.
(Posted 07/19/06 thru 10/31/06)
Christian Development Minister/Director University Church, Chicago
University Church, a multi-racial, Open and Affirming congregation seeking to be
anti-racist, is searching for a part-time Christian Development Minister/Director.
The position is 8 to 10 hours a week, 10 months of the year, with a salary of $10,000.
The position includes:
Coordinating all aspects of the Church School Program, including teacher support
Intrepreting the importance of Christian Development through articles and sermons
Participating in staff and Christian Development Ministry meetings
Because we are a multi-racial congregation, we are especially seeking persons of color
for this position.
Please send your dossier to Rev Ann Marie Coleman at the Church by August 25, 2006.
University Church
5655 S. University
Chicago, IL 60637
773-363-8142
www.universitychurchchicago.org
(Posted 07/10/06 thru 10/31/06)
Experienced church pianist/organist (M.M.) available for full-time,
part-time, & substitute work. Call Anita (312) 981-2815.
(Posted 09/01/06 thru 10/31/06)
Director of Christian Education First Congregational Church of Glen Ellyn
First Congregational Church, UCC, of Glen Ellyn is seeking a Director of Christian
Education for 35 hours a week. We have two full thriving rotation model Sunday
Schools that run during both Sunday morning services with a total of over 300 students.
You will also be responsible for our Wednesday night K - 8th grade youth and family
programming. Our CE Director works with a part time education assistant familiar
with the programs, our full time Associate Minister responsible for senior high
youth and adult education, and a large group of dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers.
Open to lay or ordained persons, this position is family/student friendly and flexible.
We will also consider splitting this position into two part time positions, divided
between the Sunday morning church school responsibilities, and the weekday night
youth and family programming.
Come join this vital and growing 1000 member church with a great staff team.
Send questions and/or resumes to:
Stephanie Harman, Chair
Christian Education Search
First Congregational Church of Glen Ellyn
300 Taylor Ave
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
630-469-5978
www.firstconge.org
stedharm@sbcglobal.net
(Posted 03/24/06 thru 10/31/06)
PASTOR: SALEM UNITED CHURCH OF OAK LAWN, Illinois
This church currently has a hold on receiving additional profiles.
Salem United Church of Oak Lawn, Illinois seeks a pastor. The person we are
looking for should be young thinking and Biblically based to be our
spiritual leader and teacher. The person should be Ordained in the UCC.
We are a multigenerational congregation and the person should work well
with all age groups. Our special needs are in the area of Youth and
Evangelism. Visit our website at
www.salemoaklawn.com
Mon, Oct 30, 6p — CLUSTER 4 MEETING: 6pm Dinner - 7pm Meeting, at
Trinity Community Church of Berwyn, 7022 Riverside Road in Berwyn. (This is
at the Corner of Riverside Drive and 26th Street, just one block East of
Harlem Avenue on 26th Street)
Our featured speaker will be Jason Byassee, Editor of the Christian Century,
who will discuss Theology for Today’s Congregations, and what that means to us
in each of our churches.
Our host Church is planning a dinner for us that will start at 6:00 p.m. We each
chip in $8.00 to help defray the cost of the meal. The meeting starts at 7:00 p.m.
which makes it possible to get home at a decent hour.
Please RSVP to Rev. William G. Ressl or Rev. Penny L. Taylor at 708-484-1818
if you are coming for dinner.
Sun, Oct 29, 11a — Church of the Three Crosses 40th Anniversary
Celebration & Homecoming beings with Worship at 11:00 am followed
by a congregational luncheon at the Church, 333 W Wisconsin St, Chicago, IL 60614;
312-951-7916; more information at:
www.churchofthethreecrosses.org;
Rev John D. Hobbs, Pastor;
john@churchofthethreecrosses.org.
Sun, Oct 29, 1p — Pastor Mark Jargstorf's Tenth Anniversary Communion
Service at The Village Church of LaGrange Park, 1150 Meadowcrest Road, LaGrange
Park, IL 60526 (708-354-0900); Luncheon Buffet follows the service.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28: CBHC HEALTHCARE GRASSROOTS LEADER TRAINING
A HealthCare Grassroots Leader Training for clergy, lay leaders and community leaders
will take place Saturday, October 28, 2006 from 9 am to 3 pm at the Union Church
of Hinsdale, 137 S Garfield, Hinsdale, IL (lunch included).
The program is sponsored by the Suburban Health Care Justice Committee, the Social Justice
Ministry of Union Church of Hinsdale and the Campaign for Better Health Care’s
Suburban Committee.
The United States is among the world’s wealthiest, yet 45 million of its
citizens lack health insurance. Many of us make hard choices between paying
for health care or for housing, food, and school...
But it doesn’t have to be this way!
NOW is the time to take action for health care reform in Illinois.
This training is for any one who wants to:
learn more about Health Care Solutions in Illinois,
learn how to become an advocate for change at the community and state level,
develop skills in educating others about the Health Care crisis and reform
initiatives, and
take action to effect change now.
It is our expectation that participants will share what they learn with others
and upon completion of the training we will be calling on participants to help
give presentations in their own communities.
To register contact:
Thom Parrott-Sheffer
Union Church of Hinsdale
137 S. Garfield Ave
Hinsdale, IL 60521
630 323-4303, ext. 18
tparrott-sheffer@uchinsdale.org
OR
Jessica Palys
Campaign for Better Health Care
1325 S. Wabash # 305
Chicago, IL 60605
312 913-9449
jpalys@cbhconline.org
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28: AFSC INQUEST IRAQ
Inquest Iraq: Accountability and the War
On October 28, 2006 a public hearing to increase understanding and
awareness of the Iraq War will be held at Northwestern University School of
Law, Thorne Auditorium, 375 East Chicago Ave, Chicago.
Sponsored by the American Friends Service Committee.
Please join AFSC and concerned citizens as we hear testimony regarding the
war in Iraq, U. S. foreign policy and the reality of war for the Iraqi people
and U. S. military personnel.
Inquest Iraq will include:
First hand testimony from current and former government and military
personnel, Iraqi citizens and Iraq war veterans
Illinois Eyes Wide Open Memorial
Opportunity to contact your congressional representatives
This will be an all day program. Details at:
www.afsc.org.
For more information contact Jarred Butto at 312-427-2533 or at:
jbutto@afsc.org
American Friends Service Committee
637 S. Dearborn, Suite 3
Chicago, IL 60605
www.afsc.org
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28 and SUNDAY, OCTOBER 29: WORSHIP ALIVE! SERIES BEGINS
Download the new PDF Flyer here.
Worship Alive! Series 2006-07 begins Saturday, October 28 and Sunday, October 29.
Mark the dates below on your calendar now for the outstanding lineup of Worship Alive!
workshops and leaders for the coming year.
But first note a big change to accommodate those of you who've said the day or
location made it difficult for you to attend. Now each Worship Alive! workshop will
be offered in two different locations in metro Chicago. You have the choice of
attending either on Saturday afternoon at The Presbyterian Church of Western Springs
OR on Sunday afternoon at the United Church of Rogers Park. The workshops run from
2:30 to 5:00 pm each day.
Registration fees will not change from last year. A full promotional brochure with
registration information will be mailed out in mid-August. If you have questions in
the meantime, contact Mark Bowman, coordinator
Here are the workshops for this next year:
October 28 & 29, 2006
Vital Encounter: Artful Worship Space; Caterine Kapikian
This workshop will offer practical suggestions for enlivened adaptation, design and
development of worship space and environment. Group reflection on the nature and
theology of worship as well as the contemporary art scene will provide theory and
guidelines for "artful" worship space. Images of work that Kapikian has done in
developing worship environments (before and after pictures) will demonstrate how
congregations can enhance their worship setting and experience.
Catherine Kapikian directs the Henry Luce III Center for Arts and Religion at Wesley
Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C., and is a member of the faculty in the
interdisciplinary field of art and theology. An acclaimed artist, her work, including
paraments, vestments, banner, tapestries, and fiber with wood installations, can be
seen in a variety of worship spaces in all major Christian traditions, as well as
synagogues and interfaith chapels. Many of her large-format works are designed by her
and fabricated by members of the community through a process of "participatory
aesthetics." She recently released Art in Service of the Sacred (Abingdon Press, 2006).
January 20 & 21, 2007
The Formational Power of Sung Prayer; David Hess
Music in the context of communal worship serves many ministerial functions: it
offers an opportunity and voice for the people of God to express their praise; it
forms them in their theology and belief; it nurtures the spiritual life; and it
helps to celebrate, intensify and clarify our symbols and ritual actions. This
session will explore all of these avenues, featuring music from many composers,
styles and sources. Come ready to sing and experience the possibilities!
David Haas, renowned liturgical music composer, is director of the Emmaus Center
for Music, Prayer and Ministry in Eagan, Minnesota. Haas studied music performance,
liturgy and theology at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota, and
has served as director of music & liturgy as well as composer-in residence with
a number of congregations and schools. For over 25 years, he has been a workshop
and keynote speaker, author, retreat leader, liturgical musician, concert performer
and recording artists at conventions, workshops and conferences throughout North
America, Europe and Australia. Haas has produced over 40 original collections and
recordings of liturgical music that are sung and prayed through the world.
March 3 & 4, 2007
Worship God: Heart and Soul, Mind and Body; Alison Adam
If the Bible tells us to love God with heart, mind, soul and strength, how does
this affect how we worship? Alison Adam of the Iona Community will lead an exploration
of issues of participation in worship, focusing particularly on resources that
engage worshipers on more than a ‘head’ level. The workshop will look at the use
of words and symbol, song and movement as tools for the broader participation of
the people of God.
Alison Adam, from the Iona Community in Scotland, enables churches and groups to
develop a more participatory and engaging style of worship which is relevant to
today's world and yet maintains a strong liturgical basis. Alison has been a
member of the Wild Goose Worship Group from its inception in 1984, and worked
with John Bell and the Wild Goose Resource Group for 7 years. She moved to London
in 2002 and now works freelance as Worship Works. Alison is a regular visitor
to North America and has facilitated retreats, youth & young adult workshops,
Big Sings, worship workshops and presented at conferences in Canada and the U.S.
April 28 & 29, 2007
Praise & Prayer in Song & Percussion from the Rooms of the World House; Dr. Abe Caceres
Energize and refresh your worship experience with Christ-centered music from around
the world. Participants will learn songs and simplified but authentic percussion
rhythms from West Africa, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East. Participants
will leave with new materials that can be incorporated into worship, choral numbers,
as well as youth and children's activities. Designed for persons of all musical abilities.
Dr. Abe Caceres teaches, demonstrates, performs, and involves audiences and workshop
participants in world music and rhythms at schools, museums, colleges, universities,
churches and seminaries throughout the U.S., South America, Mexico and the Philippines.
Caceres holds a Ph.D. in ethnomusicology from Indiana University and has been a
Fulbright-Hays Scholar as well as a Fellow of the Ford Foundation. He is Minister of
Music and Director of Music Ministries at Trinity Lutheran Church in Cedarburg,
Wisconsin, where his responsibilities include playing the organ and piano, as well
as directing several choirs and percussion ensembles.
A Service Celebrating the life of Norma Jean Sanders will be held on
Friday, October 27 at 7:00pm at Kenwood United Church of Christ, 4608
S. Greenwood Avenue, Chicago, 60653. The wake will be held at 6:00pm.
We ask your prayers for the Sanders Family and solicit your presence.
Is there room in the inn for worker justice?
(posted August thru October 2006)
From Rev. Mike Denton:
As those of you who attended the Illinois Conference meeting were made aware
by the Illinois Conference's Justice and Witness Team, hotel workers throughout
the country are going through a difficult time.
Just before 9/11, hotel workers had a negotiated a contract with several hotels
that named the number of rooms workers were supposed to clean, the amount of
money they would be paid to do this work, benefits, as well as other expectations
of both the employees and the employer.
After the attacks on 9/11, the hotel industry went through a serious slump. Some
hotels had to lay off workers. In order to bring customers back, hotel chains
increased the number of amenities that guests receive. Different chains did
different things but some of the things you may have noticed are more pillows
on the beds, as well as thicker comforters and sheets. In many hotels, they
added thicker, plusher mattresses. You may have noticed that it's relatively
normal for most rooms to have tea and coffee service, more and thicker towels
and other amenities that vary from chain to chain or hotel to hotel. The hotel
industry has rebounded and it's profits are now higher than pre-9/11 levels.
Although this may have had some benefits for guests, these amenities are causing
physical harm to the workers. All of these things add collective weight (some of
the mattresses are as much as 40 pounds heavier than previous mattresses and
they have to lift several to make the beds). The added amenities mean that there
is simply more to do.
However, the workers are expected to clean the same number
of rooms in a shift as they did before the added amenities.
Those who clean our hotel rooms are experiencing an injury rate that, by some
numbers, is as much as 25% higher than anyone else in the service industry.
In addition to that, there are other compensation and benefits issues to be
addressed. Many of these issues are going to be considered as workers negotiate
their new contract at the end of August.
I'd encourage you to learn more about these issues. The unionized hotel worker's
website goes in to a lot more depth around these questions at:
www.hotelworkersrising.org.
We serve a Christ who's family was told that the inn held no room for them.
As we continue to serve this same Christ, shouldn't we make sure that there's
room in the inn for worker justice?
Rev. Michael Denton
Association Co-Minister of
The Chicago Metropolitan Association of
The Illinois Conference of
The United Church of Christ
Wed, Oct 25, 6:30p — Cluster Five Meeting at Immanuel UCC, 9815 S. Campbell,
Evergreen Park; Topic: How do we do mission in our church?
OCTOBER 24-27: BLACK CHURCH INSTITUTE ON HIV/AIDS
The 2006 Black Church Institute on HIV/AIDS and Other Health Disparities will be
held this year from October 24 to October 27, 2006 at The Charleston Riverview Hotel,
170 Lockwood Blvd, Charleston, SC 29403
The Black Church Training Institute is designed to convene pastors, deacons,
missionaries, church school educators, youth ministry leaders, church nurses
and other auxiliary leaders of The Black Church to examine, discuss and seek
solutions to effectively address the continuing impact of HIV/AIDS on Black people.
At the Black Church Training Institute for HIV/AIDS and Other Health Disparities,
we invite all church ministries to re-dedicate themselves to the critical role
of leader as we seek God’s guidance in living through this sad hour of history,
when over 25 million people living with HIV/AIDS in the world today are of
African ancestry.
Over the past 17 years, The Balm In Gilead has been providing technical assistance
to Black churches who desire to develop effective AIDS ministries in response
to the AIDS epidemic in their local community.
Today throughout our nation, many Black churches have AIDS ministries and are
making a difference in the lives of people and families living with HIV here at
home and abroad. We invite these churches to come and share their knowledge,
triumphs, innovations, motivations as well as the challenges to providing
HIV/AIDS education and services in their communities.
The Balm In Gilead works toward creating an environment of knowledge, support,
care, compassion and unconditional love to overcome the barriers of addressing
HIV/AIDS in our communities, which includes, ignorance, stigma, denial,
homophobia, myths and lack of education and resources.
May the Holy Spirit embrace us as we come together to study to show ourselves
approved unto God. May the knowledge and messages exchanged at The Black
Church HIV/AIDS Institute echo throughout our communities to bring us steps
closer to conquering HIV/AIDS.
For more information and to register
CLICK HERE.
Crop Walk 2006
Does your church participate in a Church World Service
CROP WALK to fight hunger?
Crop Walks are a wonderful way to help others
and build church spirit for young and old alike!
The United Church of Christ is a major participant in and supporter of Church
World Service for much of our world wide relief effort.
Download information
on the CWS Chicago Crop Walk on October 15, 2006 together with
a list of Suburban Crop Walks.
Download the 2006 Crop Walk Flyer.
Download a Church World Service briefing paper on
Hunger.
For more information on Illinois Crop Walks, visit
the Crop Walk Website.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 22: ECCLESIASTICAL COUNCIL FOR GRETCHEN STEFFENSON
To All CMA Member Clergy and Churches:
You are invited and urged to send representatives to an Ecclesiastical Council
for the purpose of examining Gretchen Steffenson as a candidate for ordination
which will be held Sunday, October 22 at 4:00 PM at St. Pauls United Church of
Christ, 2335 N Orchard, Chicago.
Gretchen is on the chaplaincy staff of Children’s Memorial Hospital. She has
been an active member of St. Pauls for several years and is the chair of our
adult education committee and serves on the church council. Gretchen has been
unanimously approved and referred to Cluster 2 for an Ecclesiastical Council
by St. Pauls In-Care Committee and the Church and Ministry Committee of the
Chicago Metropolitan Association.
Please let our Cluster Dean Wayne MacPherson know if you will be able to attend
the Ecclesiastical Council by sending him an email at
revwayne@bucc-chicago.org
or by calling him at 773.281.6480.
You may download and read Gretchen's Ordination Paper
HERE.
Faithfully yours,
St. Pauls Pastors:
Thomas R. Henry
Avena A. Ward
Jeffrey P. Carlson
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21: STAINED GLASS COFFEE HOUSE AT
CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH IN DEERFIELD
From: Rev. Blair Hull, Pastor of the Congregational Church in Deerfield
(revhull@comcast.net)
We would like to invite you and your congregants to come to our new Stained
Glass Coffeehouse starting Saturday, September 16, at the Congregational Church
in Deerfield, 225 Wilmot Road, Deerfield, IL 60015; Doors open at 6:30 PM.
Music starts at 7 PM; $15.00 Suggested Donation; Advanced purchase advised:
847-945-0176.
Those familiar with the coffeehouse experience need no explanation.
The purpose of The Stained Glass Coffeehouse is to offer extraordinary
entertainment and to raise money for Heifer International - Ecuador, a
non-profit organization whose goal is to help end world hunger and poverty
through self-reliance and sustainability.
We offer an informal environment, and serve coffee and snacks. No alcohol or
meals are served. No smoking. All ages are welcome.
The coffee house will be open on the third Saturday of every month. We
already have performers scheduled every month from September through May.
Visit our website at:
www.stainedglasscoffeehouse.com
Download Flyer with dates and performers
HERE
Download Brochure
HERE
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21: CMA ANNUAL FALL MEETING
The Chicago Metropolitan Association's Annual Fall Meeting will be held on Saturday,
October 21, 2006 beginning at 8am at Pilgrim Faith United Church of Christ, 9411
South 51st Avenue in Oak Lawn. The Rev. Peggy S. McClanahan is our host Pastor.
This year's theme is: The Church Fully Alive -- Answering God's Call --
Doing Risky Mission
To all CMA Laity and Clergy, Congregations, and affiliated social, health and
educational agencies & institutions: We are called to gather on October 21, 2006
at Pilgrim Faith United Church of Christ in Oak Lawn for worship, inspiration and
fellowship in our Fall Meeting.
This meeting will feature a presentation by the Stillpoint Theatre Company
called Strong Women. that focuses on the lives and experiences of
incarcerated women. The plight of these women recalls Jesus' challenge that whatever
we do for the least of our brothers and sisters, we do for him.
Workshops will feature stories of UCC congregations involved in mission to
their communities and offer suggestions for churches who desire to serve the
high risk populations in their congregations and communities.
Workshops will include sessions, among others, on ministry with:
1. Alcoholics and substance abusers.
2. The current and formerly incarcerated.
3. The homeless and mentally ill.
4. Victims of domestic violence.
5. Those called to work for social justice through advocacy and social action.
The meeting begins with registration and continental breakfast at 8:00 am and
ends after lunch. We urge every clergy person working in the Association to be
present. This will be especially informative for Outreach and Mission committee
members. 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 can be downloaded below and may then be
photocopied. 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 to us by
the registration deadline of October 12.
Those organizations that would like to have a display table at the meeting should
phone the CMA office at 312-939-5918. Tables are reserved on a first come -
first served basis.
MEETING SCHEDULE
8:00 am - Registration and Continental Breakfast
8:30 am - Welcome and Worship
9:00 am - Strong Women, a presentation of the Stillpoint Theatre Company
9:30 am - Break
9:45 am - Workshop I: select one of the workshops to attend
11:00 am - Workshop II: select one of the workshops to attend
12:15 noon - Gathering for Announcements
12:30 pm - Lunch
More information and a Registration Form can be downloaded here:
Call Letter
Registration Form
Directions
Call for Mission Stories
Still Point Theatre Collective
Workshop Descriptions
OCTOBER 18 - OCTOBER 22: COALITION OF IMMOKALEE WORKERS VISIT CHICAGO
A delegation from the Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW) will be coming to
the broader Chicago area in October to continue to educate about the
conditions that farm workers face and the opportunity that McDonald's has to
improve fair wages and human rights in its tomato supply chain.
In March of 2005, the CIW reached an historic agreement with Yum Brand's,
Taco Bell's parent company, that set several precedents for improvements in
farmworker wages and conditions. Members of the United Church of Christ
and other people of faith were crucial to the success of this agreement,
and now we have the opportunity to call on McDonald's, headquartered in Oak
Brook, to ensure dignity for farmworkers.
What you can do:
Invite a CIW farmworker to speak to your church or group. Francisca
Cortes will be in Chicago from Oct 2-15 and joined by a larger delegation
of farmworkers in the area from Oct 18-22.
Provide educational Bulletin Inserts and postcards to McDonald's in your church.
Come join the Coalition of Immokalee Workers at UIC in Chicago on Wednesday,
October 18 from 3:30 to 5:30 pm. Agape House, a Campus Ministry of the
United Church Christ at the University of Illinois at Chicago, is
hosting the CIW workers at The Latino Cultural Center at UIC.
Parking is available at Agape House (1046 W Polk St)
The Latino Cultural Center is in Lecture Center B2, which is just north of
the Campus Quad. Or, join us at Agape House at 3:15and walk over.
This event is co-hosted by Agape House Campus Ministry and the Mexican
Students de Aztlan, a student group at UIC.
Come hear from farmworkers about the sweatshop conditions and modern-day
slavery they face in the fields, their Campaign for Fair Food, and what YOU
can do to support their struggle!
For over a year, the farmworkers of the Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW)
and allies in the religious, student and human rights communities have
called upon McDonald’s to follow Taco Bell’s lead and work with the CIW
to improve sub-poverty wages and exploitative conditions in McDonald’s
tomato supply chain.
Join the CIW Protest at McDonalds HQ on Friday, October 20, 3:30-5:30pm.
CIW is calling on McDonald's to ensure real rights for farmworkers in
McDonald's supply chain! Location: McDonald's HQ, 2111 McDonald's Dr,
Oak Brook, IL.
To learn more, visit
www.sfalliance.org or
www.ciw-online.org
You may also contact Brigitte Gynther at 239-986-0688 or at:
brigitte@interfaithact.org
OCTOBER 2006: NEIGHBORS IN NEED SPECIAL MISSION OFFERING
Most congregations receive the Neighbors in Need Special Mission Offering on
the first Sunday of October, World Communion Sunday, which this year is
October 1st; but many churches receive this offering on other Sundays in October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Neighbors in Need
1. What is Neighbors in Need?
Through the Neighbors in Need offering, the church expresses a common commitment to justice and compassion throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. One-third of the offering undergirds the work of the Council for American Indian Ministry (CAIM), including much-needed financial support for 20 American Indian congregations in the UCC. Two-thirds of the offering supports justice advocacy and direct service projects such as just-peace programs and community grants.
Most congregations receive Neighbors in Need on the first Sunday of October, World Communion Sunday. A countdown calendar helps congregations plan for the Neighbors in Need offering.
2. How are Neighbors in Need funds shared with others?
Two-thirds of Neighbors in Need supports program initiatives and direct grants offered by the UCC's Justice and Witness Ministries. Small but essential grants are made throughout the year to congregations and organizations engaged in community organizing, public policy advocacy, and direct service. Although grants are made to address a wide range of justice priorities, a significant portion of these grants are made to address issues of hunger and poverty.
One-third of Neighbors in Need supports the work of the UCC's Council for American Indian Ministry (CAIM), which is the voice for American Indians in the United Church of Christ. CAIM supports the work of local churches and their pastors; encourages youth and young adults; supports persons preparing for Christian ministry; empowers American Indians who are members of non-Indian congregations; and advocates for justice on issues affecting American Indian life.
3. How are Neighbors in Need grants allocated?
Justice and Witness Ministries uses its portion of Neighbors in Need for program initiatives and grant-making, so that funds are directly supporting grassroots advocacy and outreach efforts. Read the list of 2003 grant recipients.
Grant applications are reviewed regularly by ministry teams and decisions are made in keeping with funding guidelines and the availability of funds. Most grants are small and non-repeating but are allocated to congregations and organizations where the larger UCC's solidarity can be used to enhance and strengthen the project's overall effectiveness. All applications must include the endorsement of the UCC conference minister.
Although the number and amount of requests far exceed the amount of dollars available, allocated funds are used to plant seeds in congregations and organizations for programs that creatively address systemic issues of injustice on the local, regional, national, or international level. Careful attention is given to make sure that every Neighbors in Need grant recipient reflects the UCC's vision of being a church of Jesus Christ that is multi-racial, multi-cultural, open and affirming, and accessible to all.
4. What American Indian tribes or nations are supported by Neighbors in Need?
Historically, the forebears of the UCC established churches with the Lakota, Dakota, Nakota, Mandan, Hidatsa, Arickara, and Ho-Cak in North and South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Northern Nebraska. Today, there are 19 UCC congregations on reservations and one urban inter-tribal congregation in Minneapolis. In addition, there are more than 1,000 individuals from dozens of other tribes and nations scattered in nearly every conference in the UCC. Your contributions to Neighbors in Need directly impact the UCC's ability to support American Indian ministries and congregations.
5. What happened to the "Just Peace Appeal?"
The Just-Peace Appeal is now part of Neighbors in Need. Through Neighbors in Need, the UCC remains strongly committed to ministries of peacemaking, violence reduction, conflict resolution, federal budget priorities, and global solidarity. For more information on Just Peace/Peace With Justice ministries, contact the Rev. Loey Powell, Justice and Witness Ministries, at 216-736-3715 or by e-mail at powelll@ucc.org.
Individuals and congregations with long-standing commitments to the Just Peace Appeal are encouraged to continue their support for this vital ministry by strengthening their support for Neighbors in Need.
6. Can any portion of Neighbors in Need be retained?
Since the former Just Peace Appeal included a congregation-conference-national sharing of proceeds, some have inquired about continuing this practice with Neighbors in Need. Per instructions set forth by the UCC General Synod, all offerings received are used to support the ministries outlined above. A separate national offering, Strengthen the Church, does utilize a funding formula whereby 50 percent of receipts are retained by your respective conference.
Neighbors in Need does support local mission efforts around the UCC through grants allocated by Justice and Witness Ministries. This, in effect, brings Neighbors in Need funds back to local churches and conferences for specific mission projects.
7. Additional Questions?
For information on Neighbors in Need promotional materials and suggestions on strengthening your congregation's support for the offering, contact Diane Ford Jones in Justice and Witness Ministries, at fordjond@ucc.org or 216-736-3704.
To learn more about ministries supported by Neighbors in Need, contact
Diane Ford Jones in Justice and Witness Ministries, at fordjond@ucc.org or 216-736-3704.
Through our generous gifts to Neighbors In Need, the United Church of Christ is
offering hope to millions of people; we are transforming lives, the nation, and our world.
Neighbors In Need grants support:
Those who are speaking on behalf of our nation's public school students and their teachers, from working to free children from test-oriented curricula to advocating for higher compensation for public school teachers. In this year, our support has helped to stop extremely poor rural children from being bullied, fund parent involvement programs, and organize parents and students to demand better schools and a better way to finance education.
Programs that teach youth and young adults how to be social justice advocates, teaching others to live in a multicultural, multiracial world in just, anti-racist, peaceful, and compassionate ways.
Universal health care so that everyone who needs health care gets it.
Those who help people in and beyond our churches to live healthy lifestyles through programs like the Parish Nurse ministry and the UCC Physicians' Network and by advocating on behalf of persons with disabilities and those facing serious illness.
The Coalition of Immokalee Workers in their pursuit of justice for Florida farm workers picking tomatoes. These workers are paid just one-third of what they received 25 years ago and face harsh conditions; these farm workers lack drinking water and sanitary facilities and face verbal harassment.
The many justice-seekers who advocate for social responsibility across the environmental spectrum, from advocating and organizing family farmers to working with environmental justice advocates across the nation.
Groups who work to ensure that the civil rights and civil liberties of all God's children are protected and cherished. Some fight hate crimes and discrimination through peaceful means. Others speak out so that no one and nothing, including our leaders and government, can deny everyone's right to live private lives. And some grantees help see to it that every person is ensured the God-given right to dignity.
Those who work with inmates to assure their constitutional right to worship, organizations and individuals who work with death row prisoners, and those who seek to reform a broken penal system so that inmates can rebuild and rehabilitate their lives.
Groups, including those that are part of our own Justice and Peace Action Network, that advocate for not just the laying down of arms but for peace with justice, by building and providing resources to a network of pastors and lay leaders who are working for peace in a world torn by war.
Ministries that shape our nation's public policies in ways that promote genuine domestic and global harmony.
The people of Vieques, Puerto Rico, who celebrated this year on a land that for the first time in 62 years was not occupied by U.S. naval forces. The lands there remain filled with explosives and toxic wastes.
The training of educators who teach children, youth and adults self and divine love, through the honoring of their spirituality and its relationship to their sexuality in healthy, life-affirming, and life-saving ways.
Through our generous gifts to Neighbors In Need, the United Church of Christ is offering hope to millions of people; we are transforming lives, the nation, and our world.
Visit the UCC Website Link for Neighbors in Need Special Offering at:
www.ucc.org/nin/.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15: PROTESTANTS FOR THE COMMON GOOD TENTH ANNIVERSARY
Help celebrate the Tenth Anniversary of Protestants for the Common Good with
a Rally and Dinner on Sunday, October 15, 2006.
The celebration begins with a Rally from 4:30 - 6:00 pm at First United Methodist
Church/Chicago Temple, 77 W Washington in Chicago that will honor our keynote speaker
Congressman John Lewis with the William Sloane Coffin Award for Justice
and Peace. The program will also include the North Lawndale Community Church Choir.
Tbe Rally is free and open to the public, but space is limited and tickets are required.
The Rally will be followed by a benefit dinner beginning at 6:15 pm at Hotel Allegro,
171 W Randolph in Chicago, with distinguished guest Studs Terkel and Congressman
Lewis; reception at 6:15 pm; dinner and program at 7:00 pm; RSVP by October 6th;
$150 per person.
For more information,
download the event flyer here.
Contact:
Protestants for the Common Good
77 W Washington St - Suite 1124
Chicago, IL 60602
312-223-9544
www.thecommongood.org.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14: WELLINGTON UCC ANNUAL AWARDS BENEFIT
Wellington Avenue UCC will hold its 3rd Annual Elizabeth I. Benson Awards Benefit
on Saturday, October 14, 2006 at 6 pm at the Church at 615 W. Wellington Av. in Chicago.
This year's event will honor The Rev. Michael McConnell, Midwest Director of the
American Friends Service Committee.
The Rev. Calvin Morris, Executive Director of the Community Renewal Society of
Chicago, will preside.
For more information contact the Church at 773-935-0642 or visit their website at:
www.wellingtonaveucc.org.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14: UCC PROFILE WORKSHOP AT CTS
CMA Association Co-Ministers Michael Denton and Edward Goode are leading a UCC
Ministerial Profile writing workshop at Chicago Theological Seminary on Saturday,
October 14 beginning at 9:00 am and ending by 12 noon.
CTS students can register by contacting Rev. Alison Buttrick Patton, CTS
Director of Admissions (773-322-0229)
Non-CTS students can register by contacting Russell Barefield at CMA at
russ@cmaucc.org.
This workshop is intended for those seeking ordination in the United Church
of Christ; participants are expected to be Students In-Care.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12: CAMPAIGN FOR BETTER HEALTH CARE'S 10TH ANNUAL MEETING
Save the date for the 10th Annual Meeting of the Campaign for Better Health Care
on Thursday, October 12, 2006 from 9am to 2pm at the Holiday Inn Mart Plaza in Chicago.
Visit www.cbhconline.org
for information about the annual meeting and other upcoming events or
contact Jess Lynch at 312-913-9449 or at:
jlynch@cbhconline.org.
OCTOBER 10-13: HARVEST COLORS: SENIOR ADULT EVENT AT PILGRIM PARK
Led by Rev. Pat Kitner, this Senior Adult Event offered by Outdoor Ministries is a
wonderful opportunity for adults at least 55 years of age to participate in specially
designed programming. Each event is a time to be together with peers to relax and grow,
worship and explore, renew friendships and meet new people, all in the beauty of our
unique surroundings at Pilgrim Park Camp and Conference Center.
Accommodations in the Upper Conference Center are comfortable, with private baths
en suite, and meals are satisfying and delicious, with a wide range of choices.
The programs are varied, with the rich mixture of activity and rest, quiet
conversation, and enjoyable side trips to nearby areas of interest. Evening
vespers and morning worship will be offered to help enrich our lives.
The cost for this event is $175.00 per person. Call Rev. Pat Kitner at 630-584-1205
if you need scholarship assistance. You will receive additional information
about your event after you register.
If you have questions about Pilgrim Park Camp and Conference Center, or about
our Senior Adult Event, we encourage you to call the Outdoor Ministries Office
at 815-447-2390.
Please mail registration form by September 20, 2006 with a $50.00 deposit per
person to: Outdoor Ministries, 26449 1340 N Ave, Princeton IL 61356.
Download Flyer/Registration Form here
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2006: UCC CONFIRMATION DAY AT ELMHURST COLLEGE
Elmhurst College hosts UCC confirmation classes on campus for a program called
Sharing your Faith Journey through Storytelling. Confirmands engage
in discussions of UCC church history through storytelling with Niebuhr Center UCC
students, followed by a music and spirit filled worship service interspersed with
faith journey stories; includes tours of campus and lunch; $7.00 per person.
Download Flyer/Registration Form here.
For more information, contact Rev. Scott Matheney, College Chaplain, at 630-617-3025 or
hscottm@elmhurst.edu.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2006: SCUPE'S 30th ANNIVERSARY EVENT
An entertaining evening of spirited music followed by a reception in celebration of
SCUPE and its 30 years of service to the city; at St James Cathedral, 65 E Huron St
in Chicago; featuring renowned jazz pianist Willie Pickens and other performers;
music begins at 6:30 pm followed by reception at 7:30 pm; $20 per ticket;
contact SCUPE office at 312-726-1200; Seminary Consortium for Urban Pastoral Education:
www.scupe.com.
WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY, OCTOBER 4 & 5: ATiiM ANNUAL CONFERENCE
The ATiiM (Association of Trained Intentional Interim Ministers) of the Illinois
Conference will hold its 15th Annual Conference on October 4-5, 2006 at
Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center in Starved Rock State Park in
Utica, Illinois (near the junction of I-80 & I-39).
The program is entitled: Worship in Times of Transition and will be led
by The Rev. Maren Tirabassi, a well known author of worship and spiritual development
resources, a worship planner & workshop leader.
Maren has planned and led worship for national Church meetings, for the Interim
Ministry Annual Conference and has collaborated with a number of authors, poets
and story writers in producing books of worship, resources and writings to nurture
the human spirit. Her writings are theologically and liturgically sensitive.
They encourage creativity and theological integrity. Her writings address God
in a rich variety of scriptural images so that worship is inclusive and vital,
excluding no one and honoring all.
Among the volumes she has written is Touch Holiness: Resources for Worship
with Ruth C. Duck, Professor of Worship at Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary.
She has collaborated with her daughter Maria in Daybook for New Voices, a book
of prayers and reflections for and by youth.
Those who are actively involved in intentional interim ministry or are interested
in exploring interim ministry will want to attend. For pastors in a called position,
this is an unusual opportunity to explore worship in times of transition and to
develop worship resources for Advent & Christmas 2006. This will be an excellent
time of personal and professional renewal.
The conference begins on Wednesday, October 4, 2006 with Registration at 11 am and
concludes at 4 pm on Thursday, October 5th. There will be four sequential workshops
with Rev. Tirabassi and a fifth workshop with Maren on Writing for Advent & Christmas.
The program includes the ATiiM annual meeting, and a Hawaiian Luau and movie on
Wednesday night.
When the program concludes on Thursday, participants may stay on another night
if they wish and enjoy Starved Rock State Park & Lodge.
Registration Fee is $110.00 ($100.00 if paid before September 15th) and includes
materials, break, Wednesday lunch & dinner & Thursday lunch; meal charge for
guest/spouse: Dinner - $19.00, Lunch - $14.00
ATiiM Dues are $25.00 per calendar year. If 2007 dues are paid with Conference
Registration you will receive a copy of Tirabassi's book The Depth of Wells.
The Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center offers excellent dining, pool, whirlpool
and other amenities. The State Park in which it is located offers hiking trails and a
visitor center. Nearby shops and historical sites are located in Utica and along the
Illinois River. Come early and enjoy the park. The web addresses for more information are:
Starved Rock Lodge
Starved Rock Park
Download the complete flyer and registration form
HERE.
LEEAP Grants for 2007
Application Deadline October 1
Each year the Local Evangelism, Envisioning And Planting (LEEAP) Committee of
the Illinois Conference of the United Church of Christ extends to our
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 or your church wish to submit a request for funds, please call
the Illinois Conference at 708-344-4470 or send an e-mail to:
illconfcarmen@aol.com
and request a LEEAP application form. The application may also be
downloaded from the Illinois Conference website at:
www.ilucc.org.
A revitalization project must originate from the congregation and have broad
congregational support. The project must provide a clear and compelling vision
of how it 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 or in-place staff (except church planter).
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 1: PEDAL FOR PEACE BIKE-A-THON
Chicago Metropolitan Sanctuary Alliance with hold its nineteenth annual Pedal
for Peace Bike-a-thon to support Peace and Justice in Latin America on Sunday,
October 1, 2006 beginning at 12:30 PM.
Funds raised will support the following projects:
Chicago Metropolitan Sanctuary Alliance
Chicago Columbia Sanctuary Project
Nueva Esperanza (Chaculá), Guatemala
Chicago-Guatemala Paretnership
Chicago-Cinquera Sister Cities
Concern America
Starting Location: Waveland Clock Tower at Lake Shore Drive & Addison.
Chose a 12 mile or 24 mile loop along the Chicago lakeshore.
12:30 - 1:30: Registration at Clock Tower
1:00 - 2:00: Start Riding
4:30: Fiesta: relax, rest and enjoy some gfreat food and music from Latin America
Download flyer with more information and forms
HERE.
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