Message to the Conference | |
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Greetings members and friends of Penn Central Conference,
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” Ecclesiastes 4:9-10a
Yesterday a group of staff and volunteers gathered to nail down some of the final details as we approach our first in person Annual Meeting since 2019. The sense of excitement (and a little nervousness) was palpable!
We will gathering in person on June 9 & 10 at the DoubleTree Resort on Willow Street Pike in Lancaster. Our theme is "Renewing the Covenant We Share" We will have two workshop sessions in person over the weekend as well as worship, plenaries and a vote on a bylaws change. There are also virtual workshops during the week - if you are interested in attending one even if you aren't attending the Annual Meeting, email Paul.
We are proud and delighted to have Rev. Dr. Jane Fisler Hoffman leading a workshop on Saturday and giving a Keynote Address after dinner on Friday night. Jane graduated from Eden Seminary with MDiv and DMin degrees. After serving two local churches, she was called to Conference Ministry—-as Associate Conference Minister in SW Ohio, then Illinois Conference Minister and interim SCal Nevada Conference Minister. In those places she was privileged to work with and learn from hundreds of churches and clergy. She wrote the book Covenant that comes highly recommended by PCC staff. It is available to purchase here and we hope to have a handful of copies to purchase at registration.
Other touchstones of previous Annual Meetings are returning - like display tables from our partners and friends - plus some new additions like Morning Motion and a photo booth. We also have a mission project again this year - collecting period products for The Period Project Harrisburg.
We don't have any more rooms held at the DoubleTree, but there is still time for commuters to register. We also have virtual options available for plenaries.
If you'd like to register, or for more information, visit the registration website: https://penncentralconference.regfox.com/penn-central-conference-annual-meeting-2023
Blessings,
Paul
C. Paul Keller
Office Manager
Penn Central Conference
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Annual Meeting registration is now open!
"Renewing the Covenant We Share"
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” Ecclesiastes 4:9-10a
The 61st Annual Meeting of the Penn Central Conference will return to in person, with virtual options for plenaries. We will gather at the Doubletree Resort by Hilton; 2400 Willow Street Pike, Lancaster, PA 17602 on June 9th & 10th, 2023.
Our special guest is Rev. Dr. Jane Fisler Hoffman, author of Covenant: A Study for the United Church of Christ. She will be our keynote speaker as well as lead a workshop.
We will be voting on two bylaws changes as well as a slate of nominees. You can see more about those bylaws in the full invitation here.
Read all about the tentative schedule, workshops and more on the registration page here.
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Scheduling notes:
May 21 - St. Jacob's UCC, - Rev. Dr. Nora Foust preaching
May 28 - Grace UCC, Lebanon - Rev. Dr. Nora Foust preaching
| Printable eNews are available. Pastors and secretaries, please feel free to share with your congregation members that don't get this weekly email. Download and print this PDF with the weekly message to the conference, prayers for Penn Central and brief list of events. | |
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Prayers for Penn Central Conference
Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. Ephesians 6:18 (NLT)
This week, we pray for each other as we continue to live into God's calling...
Starview UCC, Mt. Wolf
Faith UCC, State College
St. Peters UCC, State College
Trinity UCC, State Line
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National UCC Climate Hope Cards Campaign!
On April 29th, the UCC will be launching an effort to collect as many petition postcards as possible to seek government action for cleaner air and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Such action could both save lives and put our nation on track to meet climate goals. Sign-up to get updates on the Climate Hope Cards campaign and this launch event.
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Webinar: How to Get Energy Efficiency Grants for Congregations
The U.S. Department of Energy has announced an initiative to fund energy-efficiency improvements in the nonprofit sector, including houses of worship. It is expected that in June the grant application process will open. Daniel Bresette from the Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI)and Energy Study Institute (EESI) will walk us through the process in this webinar on June 1 at 5 pm ET. Sign-up now!!
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Congratulations! The United Church of Christ has awarded St. Paul's UCC, Stoverstown in Spring Grove, PA with a $250 matching grant for their fundraising efforts and commitment to assemble 144 Hygiene Kits. These Hygiene kits mean the difference between sickness and health for struggling families facing natural disasters, violence, or poverty. We are so proud of this church's ministry! | |
Is your church looking to sell or donate surplus church chairs? St. Paul's UCC, Milton is looking for some. Please contact Pastor Tim Hogan-Palazzo if you do. | |
St. Paul's UCC, Dallastown has a large quantity of Chalice Hymnals they no longer need. If your church is in need of them, please contact the church via email or phone (717) 244-2090. | |
Himmel's UCC, Dornsife (107 Covered Bridge Rd; Dornsife, PA 17823) is celebrating 250 years with events throughout the year. On Saturday afternoon, May 20, 2023 beginning at 2:00 p.m. in the sanctuary, “A Journey Upstream” will be presented at Himmel’s Church. It will be a walk back in time and a virtual cemetery walk which will include the meeting of interesting personalities from Himmel’s 250 year history. Light refreshments will be served following the “walk.” | |
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Foundations of Worship Planning with PSEC
May 20, 2023 - 9:00AM - 1:00PM via Zoom
This workshop prepares lay leaders and refreshes authorized ministers on the foundational principles of worship with an emphasis on practical application. Participants will gain tools and sharpen skills for planning meaningful worship that facilitates holy encounters. No previous experience with worship planning is necessary.
Participants should bring a recent bulletin or order of service from their context as well as a Bible and music selection resources (i.e. hymnal and/or songbook). Register Here
About the Facilitator: The Rev. Dr. Cheryl A. Lindsay serves as the Minister for Worship and Theology for the National Ministries of the United Church of Christ as well as Pastor and Teacher of First Congregational UCC of Wellington, OH.
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Bethel UCC, Spring Grove will be celebrating 150 years with a Concert and Hymn Sing on June 24m from 2-4PM. Join them for food, fellowship and games! | |
St. Thomas UCC, Harrisburg is having their annual blueberry sale! $34 for a ten pound box, last day to order is Tuesday, June 27 with pickup on July 7. | |
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Association Events
May 21, 2023 2:00PM - Ecclesiastical Council for Joslin Kearse - Heidelberg UCC. York
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Northern Cluster Pig Roast and Concert – June 25
On Sunday, June 25, beginning at 5pm, the Northern Cluster of UCC Churches will host a free pig-roast and concert at MYO Park in Millersburg. Brothers in Grace, a Southern Gospel quartet from the Hershey area, will provide the music. Bring a covered-dish to share, and a lawn chair. A free-will offering will be received. All are welcome – come join us for great food, music, and fellowship!
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Events with our partners at Lutheran Camping Corporation
Summer Camp with Lutheran Camping Corporation - use code PENNCENTRAL2023 to use a 50% campership from PCC's Outdoor Ministries!
Hartman Center Homecoming week
July 31 through August 5, 2023
We will be returning to Hartman Center Campground in Milroy, PA as guests.
Camping experiences for all ages, including intergenerational camps.
2 night camps - Monday, July 31 at 4PM through Wednesday, August 2 at 4PM
Getting Started - Grades 1 and 2 ($125)
Intergenerational Camp ($125)
3 night camps - Wednesday, August 2 at 4PM through Saturday, August 5 at 11AM
Intergenerational Camp ($190)
Camp of the Heart ($250)
5 night camps - Monday, 31 at 4PM through Saturday, August 5 at 11AM
Elementary - Grades 3 - 5 ($300)
Junior High - Grades 6 - 8 ($300)
Senior High - Grades 9 - 12 plus ($300)
Leadership - Grades 9 - 12 plus ($300)
For more information, contact Rev. Alice Rauch alirauch07@gmail.com (director)
or Rev. Amelia Price aashivers@gmail.com (registrar)
Register here and print a brochure here
Summer camp with St. John's UCC, Chambersburg
2023 Summer Camps
Camp Galilee (9-12) June 18-23
Camp Kum Ba Yah (5-8) June 25-30
Camp Noah (K-4) June 26-30
Learn more here.
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Suicide and Moral Injury Clergy Workshop
with Lebanon VA Chaplain Rev. Dean Luther
Full flyer here
Friday May 19th 10-12 on Zoom
Register here
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From our Friends and Partners | |
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Pension Board Webinar
Knowing some of the common or basic principles of good investing will give you the advantage you’ll need to increase your probability of investing both safely and wisely.
Join our next Power-Up Your Finances webinar on Wednesday, May 17 at 3:00 p.m. ET for 12 Investing Mistakes to Avoid.
In this session, learn the 12 most common mistakes made by investors, how timing the market, under-diversifying, and other avoidable errors can threaten your ability to achieve goals; and how your EY financial planner and the resources of your EY financial planning website can help you make informed investment decisions.
Register by May 16 here. Zoom credentials will be available upon registration.
You can view all upcoming Financial Wellness Group Learning events here and register..
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Bethany Children's Home
Celebrating 160 Years
Summer Concert Series
May 20th - Splash Pad for Davy, Vendor and Craft Show - 11:00AM - 6:00PM
July 14th - Flamin' Dick & the Hot Rods - 5:00PM, $5.00 per car
August 19th - Anniversary Day Returns: Raffles, Live Music, Carnival Games, Food & Ride - $5.00 per car & additional costs for activities
Jeff Krick Jr: Elvis Tribute - 12:00PM
The Celtic Martins - 3:00PM
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On June 15, Phoebe will celebrate the 25th Anniversary of our Clinical Pastoral Education program with current students, alumni, staff, generous donors and members of the community. The Reverend Naomi Washington-Leapheart, currently Director of Faith-Based and Interfaith Affairs for the city of Philadelphia will be speaking at the event. She is a graduate of Lancaster Seminary and an ordained UCC minister. The event will take place at the Lehigh Country Club, at 2319 S Cedar Crest Blvd, Allentown, PA 18103.
If your church, business or organization would like to be a sponsor for the event, here is the link to the sponsorship page on our website: https://phoebe.org/cpe-25-years-sponsorship-form/ If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to be in contact with me.
| Are you interested in singing inspirational and fun music for Central Pennsylvania Pride? MCC of the Spirit's choir is welcoming UCC and UU singers to join our rehearsals for Voices United Pride Concert (July 28th, 7:00PM) and the Spirits United Interfaith Pride Service (July 30th, 5:00PM) Rehearsals begin every Thursday from 7:00-9:00PM starting June 1st at MCC of the Spirit, 2973 Jefferson St., Harrisburg, PA 17110, plus additional optional rehearsals Mondays in July at Colonial Park UCC. Ability to read music not required, just have a willingness to learn and make a joyful noise. The choir will be singing religious, inspirational and pop pieces. Contact Rev. Lawrence at revlawrence@mccofthespirit.org for more details or to let him know if you are interested. | |
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"Making All Things New"
General Synod 2023
"Making All Things New” will be the theme of the 34th biennial General Synod of the United Church of Christ, scheduled for June 30–July 4, 2023, in Indianapolis.
Delegates and visitors will meet June 30 through July 4 at the Indianapolis Convention Center.
For the full press release, click here.
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Our Whole Lives training
In addition to an increasing number of in-person trainings across the country, Our Whole Lives trainings will continue to be offered online in 2023 for UCC and UUA members, at a cost of only $250 plus curriculum.
Registration applications will be accepted from July 17-July 31 for a Jr Sr High Level Training in September
Registration applications will be accepted from Aug 21-Sept 5 for an Elementary (Grades K-1 and 4-6) Training in October
Registration applications will be accepted from Sept 11-Sept 25 for an All Adult Levels Training in November
More information about these trainings, in addition to information about upcoming in-person trainings, can be found here.
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From our friends and partners | |
Pennsylvania Academy of Ministry (PAM) | |
BIBLICAL INTERPRETATION 1
May 23 - June 27, 2023
BIBLICAL INTERPRETATION 2
July 11 - August 15, 2023
Tuesday evenings via Zoom.
Clergy and laity are invited to join instructor Kelsey Wallace for an introduction to the art and practice of biblical interpretation. We will consider issues of historical context, translation, literary analysis, and social location and the skills necessary to be a responsible public interpreter of scripture.
For clergy/pastors and lay leaders
$325 for each of the two series of six classes
2.5 CEUs may be earned for each series
Information and Registration: https://www.lancasterseminary.edu/programs/pennsylvania-academy-of-ministry/
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2023 Festival of Biblical Storytelling
AUGUST 2,3, AND 4, 2023
At the Maritime Conference Center near BWI and Baltimore, MD
Learn more and register here.
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Current Openings - UCC National Setting
OPTIC - Philanthropy
Generosity Officer, West Central Region Open until filled
Generosity Officer, New England Region Open until filled
Global H.O.P.E. - Humanitarian. Opportunities. Progress. Empowerment.
Minister for Disaster Response and Recovery Open until filled
Faith Education, Innovation, and Formation (Faith INFO)
Program Assistant Close: 5/21/23
Assistant Project Administrator for Love of Children Close: 5/21/23
Center for Analytics, Research, & Development & Data (CARDD)
CARDD Office Coordinator for Projects and Research Close: 5/11/23
Education and Faithful Action
Ministries Environmental Justice Fellowship Close: 6/5/23
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Hummelstown UCC Seeking Director of Music /Organist/Musician
Are you a musician who values a progressive Christian community? Apply now to the small church with a big heart! Hummelstown United Church of Christ is seeking a flexible and engaging musician to serve as Director of Music and Organist/Musician. Note: The congregation is open to this position being an accompanist only position, rather than a Director of Music with choir direction responsibilities. If interested in one or the other, please note that in your application to the contact below.
This vibrant and inclusive congregation has a deep appreciation for music, and is excited to hire a musician for the following:
· Collaborate with the Pastor, choir, and other team members to select, prepare, and present music for all services
· Assist in integrating music into the life of the church
· Accompany and/or direct choir for rehearsals and performances
· Play the piano and/or organ for hymns and other parts of the worship services
Benefits include paid time off from 4 worship services per year, education and training budget and team based creative atmosphere.
Our beautiful sanctuary has both a Yamaha baby grand piano and an organ built by Gundling, a two- manual pipe organ with foot pedals.
If you have musical passion and would like to join us on our journey, send an application/resume to search@hummelstownucc.org
For details on open positions, see position descriptions posted on our website: Director of Music and Organist/Musican. 3/22/2023
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Directory
Rev. Dr. Carrie Call, Ph.D.
Conference Minister
email: ccall@pccucc.org
Phone: 717-433-3196
Rev. Dr. Nora Driver Foust
Associate Conference Minister
email: nfoust@pccucc.org
Phone: 717-433-2587
Rev. Rick Luciotti
Coordinator of Care to Clergy & Clergy Families
email: rluciotti@gmail.com
Phone: 717-433-6306
C. Paul Keller
Office Manager
email: pkeller@pccucc.org
Phone: 717-652-1560
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