Bonnie's Letter

“The next day the great crowd that had come to the festival heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So, they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, shouting, ‘Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord-- the King of Israel!’" (John 12:12-13, NRSV)

Dear Friends,

This Sunday we celebrate Palm Sunday and begin the journey of Holy Week. Palm Sunday is often a joyous occasion with palm branches waving, processions (sometimes of adults and sometimes children), and shouts of “Hosana!” As I reflect on this Sunday and the upcoming week, I wonder what Jesus was feeling, riding on a colt into Jerusalem, proclaimed as the King of Israel. Neither of the gospel selections in the lectionary this week (Mark or John), include the passage from Luke’s gospel where the Pharisees demand that Jesus silence the disciples. And you may remember that in the next set of verses, the Pharisees plot to kill Jesus.

Jesus had engaged with the Pharisees before, and it usually didn’t end well. It won’t this time either. As we celebrate this Sunday, we know the story – we know what is coming - the betrayal, the arrest, the scourging, the crowd turning on Jesus, the walk to the cross, and the crucifixion. I remind us that the celebration of Palm Sunday and the celebration of Easter have a deep journey of trial and challenge between them and to skip from the celebration of Palm Sunday to the celebration of Easter diminishes the resurrection joy.

In the world we all encounter challenges, many of us encounter betrayal, and we have difficult paths and journeys to take as human beings. This doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t celebrate the good times – just as Jesus and the disciples do – but it means that we need to remember and reflect that joy is amplified by our experiences of challenge.

Over the last five weeks, all four Conferences in Pennsylvania have participated in a Lenten Bible Study. Thank you to Becky Sausser for her development of the study and thank you to all those who led sessions: Becky Sausser, Nicole and Zach Jackson, Kevin McLemore, Nora Foust, and the Conference Ministers. These were meaningful sessions and allowed us to get to know each other while we delved into study and Lenten preparation. We concluded the study last night with a discussion about betrayal and how it impacts us. We also remembered the servant leadership of Jesus that some of us celebrate through the act of foot washing on Maundy Thursday and the Holy Meal of Communion.

As we celebrate Palm Sunday, as we move through the remainder of Lent, and as we deepen our faith and explore our own journeys through life, I hope we will remember that Jesus, both fully human and fully divine, experienced much of what we experience, including the betrayal of friends, anger targeting him, pain and loss, and also joy at the presence and glory of God and the joy that we, too, anticipate on Resurrection Day.

Blessings my friends, Bonnie 

2024 Summer Conference Meeting

For the first time, all four Pennsylvania conferences of the UCC will be gathering for a shared Meeting on June 7-9, 2024 at The Penn Stater in State College, PA. We will have shared worship, workshops, meals and meetings as well as each conference's separate business meeting.

Below is a letter from the four PA UCC Conference Ministers

about this year’s Summer Meeting:

The planning committee for the Keystone State UCC Conference Summer Meeting has been working diligently to prepare for our June 7-9 meeting. The Keystone Working Group in collaboration with the Conference Ministers have been seeking grants and additional funding to assist with the costs of the meeting.

We want you to know that YOUR attendance is vitally important to us. We need you to help us plan for the future of our conferences. Our General Minister and President, the Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia Thompson will be with us on Saturday and Sunday, and we hope you will be with us to meet her and worship with her on Sunday.

The costs for this meeting will be significantly higher than our usual conference meetings. For one thing, this is a 3-day meeting and incorporates the extensive use of technology and the Penn Stater multiple room assignments for our gathering. We do not want the cost of the event to prevent anyone from attending.

Therefore, we are increasing our scholarship funds to cover ½ the cost of the registration. The registration materials (which are forthcoming) include some links for additional hotel locations, should you choose to utilize them.

Also, we want you to know that our meetings as a Keystone Conference will likely be shorter and less costly.

Please make plans to join us in State College in June and celebrate the work we are doing together, because we believe “Together We Are Stronger.”

Registration is open. You should have received a separate email regarding registration. (If you have not received that special email...please let Patty Rehrig at the Penn Northeast Conference Office know - pattyr@pnec.org ) In the meantime, please watch this video (click on the link below) featuring all four conference ministers with more information on this event.

Summer Meeting 2024 Announcement Video (youtube.com)

Celebrating Our Churches

(shared by the PNEC Local Congregational Support Working Group)

First UCC in Milford, New Jersey was founded as the Milford Christian Church in 1827 by Abigail Roberts, an itinerant Quaker woman preacher. As a result of her efforts 12 churches were started in the Delaware Valley of New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

"We are members of the Milford Merchant Association contributing with local businesses to keep the Milford Boro vibrant. We let them use our fellowship hall for their monthly meetings. We let them use one of our rooms to store their different signs for their annual events. Two of their flagship events are Milford Alive and Christmas in Milford. An example of how reach out to the community during Christmas in Milford is we open our church up to crafters, offer homemade chili, have a cookie sale and have a live nativity scene – usually with assorted animals and people playing the part of Mary & Joseph just outside the church. This is always a hit."

Faith Formation Leadership Retreat

May 3 - 5, 2024

Spruce Lake Retreat Center, 5389 Route 447, Canadensis, PA

COST: $$195/person (includes all programming and 3 meals on Saturday and Sunday breakfast)

This retreat for adults involved in Faith Formation provides an opportunity for those wishing to collaborate, rejuvenate, and innovate their approach to Faith Formation! This retreat will provide practical education around faith formation and we4lcomes volunteers as well as folks working in the church to participate and learn. Set in the scenic Spruce Lake Retreat Center, this promises to be a relaxing and informative time! Please click here for the flyer and how to register.

You can also register and pay through tithe.ly using this link:

https://tithe.ly/event-registration/#/8424164

Mental Health Sunday

Mental Health Sunday is May 19, 2024. The Mental Health Ministry Team is requesting that you use some of these resources – in your worship planning experience for that day! If you have any questions or concerns and would like support for your worship planning that day – please reach out.

https://www.mhn-ucc.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/MH-Sunday-Worship-Resources.pdf

Rev. Dr. Emily B. Hall, Pastor - Hope UCC, Wind Gap, 610-863-4474

From the Addiction & Recovery Taskforce: Great Resource

(taken from Pennsylvania Southeast Conference) 

For those of us who have families in our congregation and community that are non-parental (which is all of us), there is a great resource online from the state of Pennsylvania. “PA KinConnector provides guidance, advice, and support to grandparents raising grandchildren and other relative and non-relative Kinship Caregivers.” Health, financial and legal as well as other information is available.

The site is www.kinconnector.org/.

A Theology of Protest

The next Theology with a Twist will be held Tuesday, April 2 at 7:00p on the topic "Facing the Abusing God: A Theology of Protest." Join Rev. Kevin McLemore for a deep dive into the book, “Facing the Abusing God: A Theology of Protest” by Dr. David R. Blumenthal. We’ll learn more about Blumenthal’s post-Holocaust theology and his argument that God is certainly merciful and kind, loving and fair, but God is also capable of acts so unjust that they can be considered abusive. We’ll also engage with some of the work of theologian Wendy Farley throughout the text. This session is a unique opportunity to learn the main ideas found in this book, as well as some of the challenges that understanding an unjust God poses to us. For more info, click here

2024 Lehigh Valley Pride

SAVE THE DATE

We are so excited to announce that Lehigh Valley Pride will be held on Sunday, August 18th at the SteelStacks in Bethlehem from 2:00 to 7:00 p.m.

This year's Lehigh Valley Pride will be the most inclusive to date with accessibility features such as FREE entry, ASL interpreters, ADA restrooms, large-print Pride guides, alcohol-free experiences, indoor air conditioned spaces, accessible seating for those with disabilities, indoor sensory-friendly area, spirituality space, and reserved parking near the festival entrances.

To include even more community members and vendors, Lehigh Valley Pride will expand its square footage and encompass more of ArtsQuest’s campus, including an expanded baby & tot spot.

Stay tuned for more information as it becomes available. We can't wait to see you there! 

The Annual Robert K. Campbell Memorial Lecture on Christian Unity Presents

Revisioning Faith For The 21st Century

Thursday, April 11, 2024

3:00 to 8:00PM

DeSales University, (University Center), 2755 Station Ave., Center Valley

$20 Registration Fee

featuring author Sue Pizor Yoder and the members of Co.Lab.Inq.

(This event will count for Authorized Ministers Cultural Competency Training.)

About Event...What will faith communities look like in 2040? What actions can church leaders take to address the new religious context of Gen Xers and Millennials—now representing 40 percent of adults living in America? What do these generations teach us about belonging, adversity, legacy—and faith? Join us for an interactive, multisensory event aimed at seeking a path to revisioning faith for the 21st century.

AGENDA

3:00 – 3:30: Registration

3:30 – 5:00: Lecture and Q&A

5:00 – 6:00: Buffet Dinner

6:00 – 7:30: Interactive Workshop

7:30 – 8:00: Book Signing:

“Hear Us Out: Six Questions on Belonging and Belief.”

Register at: www.lehighchurches.org/events

How to Church Videos 

Over the past several months, the Local Congregational Support Working Group and the Congregational Vitality Team have been working to produce a series of short videos addressing some of the frequently asked questions of our local churches. We’ve been calling them, “How to Church: I Wish I Knew…”. Our object has been to provide our churches with an engaging and insightful means of both educating and inspiring their leaders and larger congregation. Thus far, we have produced videos on being a good Consistory member, the wider church, and community engagement—with many more topics on the way! All of the videos are available on the PNEC YouTube channel at the links below. If you haven’t had a chance to check them out, please do! If you have a question that your church is wrestling with that you think would be a helpful subject for a video, please let us know, because these are meant to help you—our churches!

Being a Good Consistory Member — https://youtu.be/oBqdiVgrMAE?si=5M11Y2QlLYhrBIDN

The Wider Church — https://youtu.be/-AZBbJLBMOQ?si=jsEUEJGelwpOMsHO

Community Engagement — https://youtu.be/USNUXchNJns?si=4y3z8xTebtAnN8Op

Re-affirmation of Ordination Vows

March 28^{th -} 10:00 AM

The Conference Ministers of the four Pennsylvania UCC Conferences will host a Service of the Reaffirmation of Ordination Vows for ordained clergy on Maundy Thursday, March 28, at 10:00a via ZOOM.

It’s a long-standing custom in liturgical traditions for clergy to gather on the same day Jesus offered “a new commandment”– to love and serve one another– for the reaffirmation of their ordination. We hope this will be an experience of spiritual encouragement and connection.

Clergy are encouraged to wear a stole received at their ordination, a red stole, or any other stole that has significant meaning. The service includes the sacrament of virtual communion so please prepare in advance.

https://psec.org/event/reaffirmation-of-ordination-vows/

Registration: https://ordinationvows.eventbrite.com



Understanding the Hopes of Our Donors to Create Change

 On April 24 at 7:30p, Rev. Andrew Warner, Generosity Outreach Officer for the UCC, will lead an online workshop on "A Good Pitch: Understanding the Hopes of Our Donors to Create Change".

Once a upon a time, donors gave out of a sense of obligation and loyalty. Today, most donors care about the impact they make in the world. How do we understand the motivations of our donors? What kind of change do they want to make in the world? Andrew Warner will talk about five basic ways donors look to create change. We will discuss ways to discuss your congregation's impact on your community. For more info and to register, click here

UCCMA National Conference 2024

Conference 2024, the national biennial gathering of the United Church of Christ Musicians Association (UCCMA), will take place July 10-13, 2024 at the First Congregational Church of Greenwich, Connecticut. Designed for church musicians, choral and handbell choir members and worship leaders, the three-day event includes workshops, plenary sessions, worship services, evening entertainment and networking opportunities. The stellar roster of presenters includes:

·       Tom Shelton, associate professor in choral activities at Westminster Choir College

·       Nathanial Gumbs, concert organist and director of chapel music at Yale

·       Ellen Dickinson, director of bell programs at Yale

·       Braxton Shelley, associate professor of music, sacred music and divinity at Yale

·       Janet Yieh, concert organist and specialist in women composers

The conference’s theme, “A place at the table,” inspired the planning for the entire conference experience. Our goal is to send participants home reenergized with lots of new resources and ideas to use in their local congregations.

This conference is open to all. Scholarship help is available for first-time UCCMA conference attendees who wouldn’t be able to attend without some financial assistance.

Complete information is available at https://uccma.wildapricot.org/conference-2024.

The United Church of Christ Musicians Association, Inc. (UCCMA) is a non-profit, national organization of musicians, clergy and interested laity in the United Church of Christ and beyond. We are a grassroots, independent organization run by volunteers and supported by members. Our mission is to inspire, educate and nurture those who minister through music and the arts. Visit us at https://uccma.wildapricot.org/.

Boundary Training

Not-Your-Average Boundaries Training is tailored to focus on strategies to foster clergy emotional resiliency and well-being. 



While we still cover the "requirements" we believe the best prevention involves encouraging leaders to take steps to manage their stress in order to maintain balance and perspective when temptation to violate boundaries arises.

This live online boundaries training is 5 total hours split over 2 consecutive days (2.5 hours each day). Following the first session, participants are asked to engage in a bit of reflection work in preparation for the second session. This online boundaries training will be conducted via secure Zoom video conferencing

Classes will be offered May 7/8 from 1PM-4PM & October 15/16 from 10AM-1PM 2023

Limit is 40 people per class

Zoom link and workbook will be emailed to all participants 1 week prior to the scheduled training.

$50.00 for PCUSA / $65.00 for non-PCUSA participants

CLICK HERE to Register

Clergy Convocation 2024

May 7, 2024 @ 3 pm-May 9, 2024 @ 1:30 pm

Double Tree by Hilton, Lancaster

Clergy Convocation 2024 –

To register, click here.

Pennsylvania Academy of Ministry (PAM) Upcoming Classes and Podcasts

Preaching and Worship through the Year. April 9–May 14, 2024. Tuesdays, 7–8:30pm EST via Zoom. Instructor the Rev. Dr. Ronnette Comfort-Butler.

To preach and preside effectively requires planning and preparation throughout the liturgical year. This class equips ministers with many skills, including use of the lectionary, planning sermon series, music and arts, special services and occasions, and more. 2.5 CEUs. $325.

Practices of Church Leadership. May 21–June 25, 2024. Tuesdays, 7–8:30pm EST via Zoom. Instructor the Rev. Sara Hertzog.

This nuts-and-bolts class covers the basics of leadership and administration, with practical application for everyone on the ministry leadership team. Topics include: covenant and authority; conflict; family and congregational systems; vision and mission; handling administrative tasks; spiritual care and boundaries. Clergy, lay leaders, and MIDs are encouraged to register. 2.5 CEUs. $325.

Innovation and New Models of Leadership. July 9–Aug 13, 2024. Tuesdays, 7–8:30pm EST via Zoom. Instructor: The Rev. Dale Davis.

This challenging class engages an array of exciting leadership models and is supported by a podcast series produced especially for the Pennsylvania Academy of Ministry. 2.5 CEUs. $325.

Each class is six weeks online. Information and registration: https://www.lancasterseminary.edu/programs/pennsylvania-academy-of-ministry/

Congregational Education Day

On Saturday, April 6 from 8:30a-3:00p, PSEC will hold the 2024 Lay Leadership Convocation in Boyertown. This year's theme will be Sharing Leadership. For agenda, workshop descriptions, and registration, click here

The Keystone Project conversation has highlighted a need for more lay leadership learning opportunities as congregations rely more heavily on these volunteers. Pennsylvania Southeast has a long history of offering this learning day and as we continue to explore the possibilities of a Keystone Conference, this is an excellent opportunity for fellowship together with our siblings in Christ. Lay Leaders and Clergy are teaming up to offer workshops on care for older adults, choir spirituality, small Sunday school success, stewardship and so much more!! There’s something for everyone and carpooling with friends from church will help with the early morning drive as things begin at 8:30 with coffee and registration.

The Institute for Youth Ministry’s Princeton Forum on Youth Ministry at Princeton Theological Seminary

This year’s theme is “Craft: The Future of Youth Ministry,” and the event dates are April 30 - May 3, 2024, on the seminary campus. We believe the Forum is a unique opportunity for youth ministry leaders who crave a community of peers seeking to be transformed through theological reflection that meets practical application in ministry with young people.  

Youth ministers are often the ones called upon in the church to cast a vision for how we can build life together with young people in our congregations and communities. Will you please share about this event with those who are doing youth ministry in your congregation? We have also attached a flyer that you can share on social media and in newsletters with the ministry leaders who would find value in our resources. More information can also be found on our Facebook and Instagram platforms.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. Thank you for your help in spreading the word!

Building Ministry Together, Barbara Holland 

Barbara Holland(She/her), ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT, INSTITUTE FOR YOUTH MINISTRY

Princeton Theological Seminary, Office: 609.497.7914, https://iym.ptsem.edu/

Disaster Ministries

Non-profit FEMA grant intro seminars scheduled

FEMA’s Grant Programs Directorate invites interested organizations to attend webinars regarding the Nonprofit Security Grant Program. The NSGP is a competitive grant awarded to nonprofit organizations at high risk of a terrorist or other extremist attack for the purposes of facility hardening and other security enhancements. It is strongly recommended that you review the NSGP resources found here to maximize the benefit of attendance.

·   Friday, March 22, 2:00p. Register.

Following registration, you will receive a calendar invitation via email for the webinar. The link to join the webinar will be contained in that calendar event email. 

Ready PA Monthly - Click Here to Read

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