Dear Members and Friends of Penn Central Conference,

“Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John.” Matthew 3:13

Star words are all the buzz this time of year. (Lots of pastors write about them if you google star words.) Pastors and Congregation leaders all over are printing or writing intention words on star-shaped paper or sharing a star word generator so that each person will have a new word for 2023 to inspire them in Christian living, or new prayer practices, or in reflection on God through that word. One church I read about will draw a new star word each week of the Epiphany season and the whole congregation will use that word to guide their prayers, their thoughts, in a new way for that week. Another is combining it with Baptism of Jesus and putting words on cut out water-droplet shaped paper and creating a little pond in the sanctuary.

During Epiphany in 2021, Pastor Dani at Mount Zion in York sent me a gold star in a stark white envelope that said "motivation." I have returned to that star word a lot in the last 2 years. I think about the ways that I am called to be a motivator and to be motivation for others. This year I am seeking that star again in another way, motivation from within or beyond me to move myself out of the doldrums of post-Christmas.

This Sunday I will be at Mount Zion and will be preaching on this text about the baptism of Jesus. As I seek the gold star "motivation" and sit with this text this week, I wonder how I might hear Christ calling me today, in this season, and just how motivated I am to respond to Christ's call? What about you? How do the waters of baptism call out to you today?

I know that as the star word tradition teaches I should be at least two words past my gold star "motivation," but that word - that star - doesn't seem to be finished with me yet.

I remember my own baptism each year when we celebrate Christ's baptism on the liturgical calendar and something about preaching this text in the church that sent me my gold star "motivation" has me looking in new directions for how the waters of baptism call me anew to live and be part of the family of God today.

How about you? Reflect on your own baptism this week and be motivated to live and love as beloved of God. Get your own star or water droplet word from Jen Fulwiler here.

May the Christ’s light of this season shine brightly in your life and bring you peace.

Shalom,

Nora

Rev. Dr. Nora Foust

Associate Conference Minister

Penn Central Conference

Photo credit: Oak Hill Presbyterian, St. Louis

Scheduling notes:

January 15 - Mt. Zion UCC, York - Rev. Dr. Nora Foust preaching

January 29 - St. John UCC, Red Lion - Rev. Dr. Carrie Call preaching

January 29 - Trinity UCC, Lewistown - 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.

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...

St. John's UCC, Lewisburg

Trinity UCC, Lewistown

St. Luke's UCC, Lititz

Faith UCC, Littlestown

Winter/Spring 2023 MEFs (10AM hybrid, 6PM Zoom)

January 17 - "Grief and Loss" with Rev. Dr. Joel Hummel

10:00AM hybrid - register here

6:00PM Zoom Only - register here

Monday, February 6, 6:00 – 9:00pm ET, Specialized Minister Boundary Training with the Rev. Tara Barber and the Rev. Stephen Boyd

This training, hosted by Revs. Tara Barber and Stephen Boyd, is open to ministers serving in specialized settings throughout the United Church of Christ. Serving in specialized setting requires particular attention to boundaries within the ministry setting and home church that are challenging and different from those serving as local church pastors. This training will focus on matters that relate specifically to issues that these ministers face, providing opportunities for clergy to reflect on best practices and growth in their practice of ministry. *Note - This training completes individual requirements for boundary training ONLY WHEN authorized by a local Committee on Ministry. Register here

February 21 - "Diversity, Equality & Inclusion" with Rev. Alice Rauch

10:00AM hybrid - register here

6:00PM Zoom Only - register here

March 21 - "Just Peace, Just War: Part 2" with Rev. Dr. Carrie Call

10:00AM hybrid - register here

6:00PM Zoom Only - register here

No April MEF, staff will be on retreat

May 16 - "Starting Justice Conversations: Part 1" with Rev. Carla Christopher

10:00AM hybrid - register here

6:00PM Zoom Only - register here

JOURNEY INTO AND THROUGH RETIREMENT 

A convocation for Retired Clergy and Spouses 

MAY 9, 10, 11 at the Doubletree Convention Center, Willow Street, PA 

Brought to you by Penn Central Conference

and the United Church of Christ Pension Boards 

The above announced convocation is for all retired clergy within the Penn Central Conference. It will be a time of renewing friendships and presentations on a wide range of topics of interest and concern during the retirement years. The Pension Boards will have personnel on hand to cover issues of finance, health care and general support services, such as the Annuitant Visitor program. There will be representatives from The UCC Homes and Phoebe Homes to share information on various levels of care available. We will also have persons representing the Area Agency on Aging, AAA and AARP available to assist with questions and interests you may have concerning services and opportunities available for retirees. 

We have reserved space for 150 registrants and so we are sending this information now and ask that you indicate your interest in this program. There will be both registration for staying at the convention center and also a commuter option. Finals details regarding cost have not yet been finalized and so we are only asking interest lever for our planning purposes.   

Please indicate your interest in participating by contacting:

Rev Rick Luciotti, Facilitator for Clergy Care 

Penn Central Conference 

PO Box 6625 

Harrisburg. PA 

Or by email: rluciotti@pccucc.org 

UCC National Setting

UCC Webinars

These webinars are designed to help you enhance your local church ministries. Most are free to attend. Check out the calendar here.

UCC Ethnic and Congregations of Color in Rural Communities

JAN 12, 2023 | 3:30PM - 4:30PM

UCC Ethnic and Congregations of Color in Rural Communities

JAN 12, 2023 | 3:30PM - 4:30PM

The Virtual National Gathering of UCC Rural/Small Town Churches and Ministries

Theme: Nourishing the Seeds of Faith (Isaiah 55:10-11)

Presented by the Coalition for UCC Rural Ministries

Hosted by the UCC National Faith INFO Ministry Team of the Justice and Local Church Ministries

February 9-11, 2023 - 4:00-7:00 pm EST



Registration Now Open: https://cvent.me/rQ8RQo

Contact: Rev Roberto Ochoa, UCC Minister for Ethnic Inclusion, Rural and Small Churches – ochoar@ucc.org

Engaging Christian Contemplative Practices

What does “contemplation” mean? When we “contemplate” an idea, contemplation implies something deeper than thinking only. In contemplation, we start from a place of mystery and an acceptance of not knowing. This is often called the “mystical” dimension of faith, which shares a root with the word “mystery”. Spiritual truths often begin as a mystery because there is much we must spiritually unlearn, including many beliefs that no longer serve us. As we release fear’s grip and open our minds and hearts, new revelations are revealed to us. We shall talk more about these foundations over the course of our “Engaging Christian Contemplative Practices” gatherings

Six virtual 90-minute evening sessions on these 2023 dates (with one optional in-person meeting in Mass.): January 18, February 1, February 15, March 1, March 15, March 29

https://sneucc-reg.brtapp.com/ChristianContemplation

"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.

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 Jan 17-30 for an All Adult Levels Training in March

Registration applications will be accepted from Feb 21-Mar 6 for a Jr Sr High Level Training in April

Registration applications will be accepted from March 13 through March 27 for an Elementary (Grades K-1 and 4-6) Training in May

Registration applications will be accepted from April 17 through May 1 for a Jr Sr High Level Training in June

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.

From Pheobe Ministries:

Pennsylvania Academy of Ministry (PAM) NEW CLASS DATES

Jews and the American Civil Rights Movement, Feb. 8 and 15, March 1, 8, 15, and 22, 2023. Wednesdays, 7–8:30pm via Zoom. Instructor, Jack Paskoff. The American Jewish community played a meaningful role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. This class opens a window into this complex and multi-faceted era in Black-Jewish relations. 2.5 CEUs. $325.

Church History 1, Beginnings to Reformation Rumblings, four Tuesdays and two Thursdays, Feb. 23 and 28, March 7, 14, 23, 28. 7–8:30pm EST, via Zoom. Instructor, the Rev. Matt Deal. Exploring how the church sorted out key paradoxes from the first century up to the Reformation. 2.5 CEUs. $325.

Information and Registration: https://www.lancasterseminary.edu/programs/pennsylvania-academy-of-ministry/

The Pension Boards is pleased to invite you to join our inaugural quarterly investment webinar series, entitled Investment Watch, beginning on Thursday, January 19 at 3:00PM (ET)

In preparation for the webinar, we ask that you provide any advance questions that you may have concerning your investments or retirement plan account by no later than January 13 here.

Members may register for the Investment Watch webinar here by January 18

We also encourage you to save the dates below for upcoming Investment Watch events.

• Thursday, April 20 (First Quarter 2023)

• Thursday, July 20 (Second Quarter 2023)

• October 19 (Third Quarter 2023)

• January 18, 2024 (Fourth Quarter 2024)

Learn more here.

If you are an actively-contributing Pension Boards member, 45 years of age or older, we invite you to join a Pensions Boards' Financial Wellness Seminar themed “Planning for the Transition to Retirement. 

Date: Wednesday, January 25, 2023 

Time: 12:00PM. to 4:00PM on EST 

Whether you are planning to retire soon or are in the middle of your career, clergy or lay, this seminar is designed to help you transition to retirement.

Register here by January 24, 2022. Zoom credentials will be available upon registration 

In this session, we will discuss the following:   

·       The retirement planning process and assessing if you are on track 

·       Social Security planning including common questions 

·       Decisions you'll need to make when starting your PBUCC retirement benefits 

·       Medicare and other insurance considerations 

·       Investing planning as you approach retirement  

·       Common estate planning documents 

·       Planning for a fulfilling life after retirement 

We hope you will join us! 

Music Ministry Positions at Emmanuel UCC, Hanover PA

Emmanuel United Church of Christ is a forward-looking, Open and Affirming faith environment. These part-time positions offer competitive salary and vacation packages. For details, visit www.emmanuelucc.org. Submit your cover letter and resume to pastor@eucchanover.org.

Organist/Accompanist Needed

EUCC is excited to be searching for an Organist/Keyboardist for Sunday worship and special occasions. We’re open to you leading our Choirs and Handbells as well if you have the experience and savvy. Contact us soon before someone else slides into the bench before you! 

Choir/Handbell Director

EUCC is excited to be searching for a Choir and Handbell Director for Sunday worship and special occasions. We’re open to you playing our organ/keyboards as well if you have the experience and savvy. Contact us soon before someone else slides into the lead before you! 

Bookkeeper Position

Penn Central Conference of the United Church of Christ, located in Harrisburg, PA, is seeking a part time bookkeeper (averaging 10 hours a week.) A working knowledge of financial systems and processes, computer skills (including Microsoft Office and Servant Keeper) and a willingness to learn new skills as necessary are essential. Responsibilities include preparing payables; tracking receipts and payments of conduits; assisting in preparation of materials requested by auditors; working closely with accounting firm, bankers, auditors, and other financial partners; generating reports; preparing and generating year end giving statements. Hourly pay, compensation commensurate with experience. This position will report to the Office Manager. Interested parties may send a resume to Paul at pkeller@pccucc.org by February 1, 2023

Now Accepting Applications or Referrals for

FT STAFF CHAPLAIN AT PHOEBE RICHLAND

General Responsibilities 

Conducts variety of religious activities and provides for the spiritual needs of residents and families and ministry with staff. Provides clinical oversight and mentoring for CPE intern chaplains, per diem chaplain and volunteers. Works closely with inter-disciplinary staff to meet the needs of residents. Conducts outreach to churches and community. Works collaboratively with other chaplains in the department. Will help establish pastoral care at our new Chestnut Ridge at Rodale campus in Emmaus, PA.

Requirements

• Master of Divinity; ordination in the United Church of Christ or a denomination closely related or dual standing in the UCC.
• Minimum of 4 units of CPE; Eligible for APC Board Certification or working toward this certification
• 2-3 years of ministry experience in a parish or chaplaincy setting

Part time music director

Dreisbach UCC, Lewisburg, is looking for a music director beginning in January 2023. Dreisbach enjoys a diverse collection of music in its services including both contemporary and traditional. We have a small adult choir, a bell choir, and a praise band. We are looking for someone who can work approximately 3-6 hours per week. Position responsibilities include leading and directing the adult choir in rehearsal and worship, leading the praise band, directing the bell choir, and picking music for all ensembles.

Appropriate clearances are required. Qualified applicants should send their resume, cover letter, and references to: Dreisbach United Church of Christ, 875 Dreisbach Church Road, Lewisburg, PA. 17837, or email to pam_adminsec@dreisbachucc.org.

Organist and piano accompanist

Dreisbach UCC, Lewisburg, is looking for an organist and piano accompanist beginning in January 2023. Dreisbach enjoys a diverse collection of music in its services including both contemporary and traditional. Dreisbach has an Allen digital organ that was installed in 1997. The organ has 2 manuals, a midi system, and a recording system. We are looking for someone who can work approximately 3-6 hours per week. Position responsibilities include accompanying the worship service and the choir, working with the pastor to choose music for the worship services, and reporting organ and piano repair and tuning needs to the consistory.

Appropriate clearances are required. Qualified applicants should send their resume, cover letter, and references to: Dreisbach United Church of Christ, 875 Dreisbach Church Road, Lewisurg, PA. 17837, or email to pam_adminsec@dreisbachucc.org.

Starview United Church of Christ has a Director of Music position open. This position involves 1 Sunday morning worship service, special liturgical services throughout the year, and direction of the church choirs. The estimated time per week is a 6 hours, which naturally, will vary depending on the church season and number of services planned. Compensation is negotiable. Resumes may be emailed to: starviewucc@comcast.net or mailed to 4832 N. Sherman St. Ext., Mount Wolf, PA 17347.

For additional contact information to address specific questions with the Worship Committee Chairperson or the pastor, please call 717-266-4248.

Starview United Church of Christ is located approximately 6 miles off of I-83 at Exit 24 and 6 miles north of the Galleria Mall on Rt. 24 (Mt. Zion Exit off of Rt. 30).

UCC National Positions:

Global Ministries

Area Executive, Southern Asia Office Extended Search: Open Until Filled