Executive Conference Minister: Giving Thanks for Hope

In a video Thanksgiving message, Rev. Darrell Goodwin said:

"I have thanksgiving because I believe that together we can make sure that no one in this region is living without love and justice ... I know that we have not yet experienced the world that is to come. but I stand on the firm foundation that each and every one of us is a part of the framework to make it happen. We can do this. We can be the hope that allows a world to find thanksgiving."

Read & Watch 4.5 Min Read; 6 Min Watch

ONA Coalition Director Responds to Colorado Shooting

The Rev. Andrew Lang, Executive Director of the Open and Affirming Coalition, in a letter released in response to the Club Q shooting in Colorado Springs, writes:

It is not easy to hope in a time like this. We are overwhelmed with shock, bewilderment, grief and anger. Our emotions now cannot simply dissolve into hope. It will take time to heal. But there will be a time to hope again.

Read 2 Min Read

Related: The Power of Remembrance: Joy in the Midst of Grief

To mark Transgender Day of Remembrance this past Sunday, Queer Justice Advocate Michael Streib released a small collection of comments and perspectives of transgender and non-binary people as they discuss what they love about their trans identities.

"In doing so, they demonstrate their power and resistance, refusing to allow themselves to be defined exclusively by the experiences of violence and trauma that are too present in transgender communities," he said.

Read & View 2 Min Read

Upcoming Series: Engaging Christian Contemplative Practices

The Center for Transformational Leadership has announced a new series on Engaging Christian Contemplative Practices, beginning in January. Led by Rev. Matt Carriker of the Agape Spiritual Community, this 6-part online series will call upon participants to open their minds and hearts so that new revelations may be revealed.

Find out more

2022 Justice Summit Videos Available On Demand

Videos of the morning and afternoon worship and plenary panel discussions at the 2022 Justice Summit are now available on demand. The cost is $20 for a 30 day rental.

The morning sermon, the plenary conversation and liturgical elements from both services invite viewers into deeper conversation about racial justice work in their local congregations and ministry contexts. Some congregations might choose to view some of the worship elements together and follow with a community conversation. Other congregations might choose to reuse some of the liturgical elements in their local contexts. Fees collected will help defray Justice Summit costs and fund other justice initiatives. Attendees who paid to register for the Summit have free access to the videos.

Find out more

Upcoming Events

Financial Literacy and Budgeting
Nov. 29 at 7:00 PM • Online
Explore some of the opportunities embedded in budgets and the budgeting process.

Advent Chapel of the Heart
Weekly on Wednesdays, Nov. 30 to Dec. 21 at 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM • Online
Online devotional time for clergy, faith formation practitioners, and lay leaders.

“Comfort ye, my People”: An Advent Online Retreat
Dec. 3, 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM • Online
In this free morning retreat, we will seek to create a space of prayer big enough to encompass both what disturbs and shakes us, and what brings comfort and hope.

Living Into the Mystery: Worship and Sacraments in the United Church of Christ
Jan. 7, 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM • Online
Students will engage in an overview of the worship traditions of the UCC, tracing its history back to early Christian practices, particularly Baptism and Communion.

Racial Justice for Faith Formation & Youth Ministry Leaders
Jan. 14, 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM • Online
Students will explore how to create a common language around racism, to unmask racism in our lives, and to encourage long-term engagement in racial justice ministry as a spiritual issue.

All Events

www.sneucc.org/events

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