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E-Connections
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1. Holiday Drum Circle
and Campfire
December 1, 2008
“HOLIDAY DRUM CIRCLE AND CAMPFIRE”: Zion United Church of Christ
(5710 North Highway 67, 1/4 mile west of Jamestown Mall) will host a
“Holiday Drum Circle and Campfire” at their labyrinth on Saturday,
December 27th from 6-8 p.m. Come walk the labyrinth, gather around a
bonfire and drum in the New Year. Refreshment will be served. Bring
a drum, or any percussion instrument, and a lawn chair. Free.
Accessible. 314-741-1590. www.zionucc1.org
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2. Death of
Edward George Wulfekuehler, Jr.
December 1, 2008
We are saddened to share with you the death of Rev. Dr. Chaplain
Edward George Wulfekuehler, Jr. age 80, who died in Wailea, Maui,
Hawaii on Wednesday, November 26, 2008. He was under Hospice care
for several months and passed away peacefully at home with his wife
Carol at his side.
Born April 28, 1928 in St. Louis Missouri, the only child of parents
Mildred and Edward G. Wulfekuehler, Sr. Edward graduated with honors
from a St Louis high school in 1947, presenting the Valedictorian
address. Following graduation from Drury College, in Springfield,
Missouri in 1950, Edward continued his education at Pacific School
of Religion located in Berkley, California receiving his Master of
Divinity degree in 1953.
On June 10, 1953 he was ordained at the Independent Congregational
Church in St. Louis, Missouri. Ed provided pastoral services to
churches in the St. Louis area until 1955 when he was called as a
chaplain to active duty in the United States Air Force Reserve. From
1955 to 1958 Chaplain Wulfekuehler served at Foster AFB in Texas,
the 10th Air Division in Alaska and Donaldson AFB in South Carolina.
He remained in the United States Army Reserve while serving as
Co-Minister of Brentwood Missouri United Church of Christ.
From 1962 to 1965 Chaplain Wulfekuehler was once again pressed into
active duty serving at the Presidio in San Francisco, Korea and Ft.
Carson, Colorado. Remaining in the United States Army Reserve from
1965 to 1970, Rev. Wulfekuehler served a church in Medford, Oregon
as well as teaching at Southern University of Oregon in Ashland.
In 1970 Rev. Wulfekuehler accepted the call to serve as Senior
Pastor of Congregational Church of Bakersfield, California. During
his ten years in Bakersfield he remained in the United States Army
Reserve and also attended Pacific School of Religion earning his
doctoral degree. It was also during this time that he sponsored a
family of five from Korea. The parents, Chungsam and Sunae Doh acted
as his musical director and vocalist during his year in Korea. The
Doh family settled in Bakersfield and again led the musical choir
and program at Ed’s church.
In 1980 the Rev. Dr. Chaplain COL Edward Wulfekuehler once again
entered active duty serving as Reserve Affairs Advisor to the Army
Chief of Chaplains at the United States Pentagon in Washington, D.C.
After four years of active duty at the Pentagon Edward returned to
reserve duty and moved to Springfield, Missouri.
From 1984 to1988 Rev. Wulfekuehler served as minister of Evangelical
Church in Boonville, Missouri. During this time he conducted a
second tour to Israel, having led the first tour during his ministry
in Bakersfield, California.
He retired from the United States Army Reserve in 1988. After
military retirement, Rev. Wulfekuehler studied interim ministry and
was then called to many churches to serve as an interim minister
until a permanent minister was called. Many of those churches were
in the Springfield, Missouri area. In 1991 he was called to serve
St. John’s Church in Wellington, New Zealand. The call was to serve
as an interim minister for six months, but he was asked to stay for
two years. Ed loved New Zealand and its people and has maintained a
warm relationship with many of the New Zealanders.
In 1995, Rev. Wulfekuehler was called to serve as interim minister
at Makawao Union Church on Maui, staying with the church until
January 1, 1997. He became a member of Keawala’i’ Congregational
Church in January of 1997.
In June of 2003 a celebration of the fiftieth year of Rev.
Wulfekueher’s ministry was held at Keawala’i Church. On November 27,
2005 Rev. Wulfekuehler was installed as Pastor Emeritus of Makawao
Union Church.
Since moving to Maui in 1995, Rev. Wulfekuehler has served as supply
Pastor to many different churches all over the State of Hawaii as
well as teaching at Maui Community College.
Rev. Wulfekuehler is survived by his wife, Carol Burdick of Maui;
daughter Deborah King of Colorado Springs, Colorado; son David
Wulfekuehler and son Christopher Wulfekuehler of Bakersfield,
California; step-children Samuel Bumgarner of San Diego, and Lisa
Sherburne of New Hampton, Iowa; seven grandchildren and one great
grand-child. Ed was predeceased by a newborn infant son named Steven
Wulfekuehler.
Rev. Wulfekuehler’s humor and smile was legendary through out his
life and appeared in sermons, social settings, and through his
illness.
A celebration of Rev. Wulfekuehler’s life will be held at Keawala’i
Congregational Church in Makena, Maui, Hawaii on Saturday, December
13, 2008 at Keawala’i Congregational Church in Makena, Hawaii.
A second memorial service and internment will be at Chaplain’s Hill
in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia at a future
date.
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3. Clergy
Leadership in Health and Wholeness
December 2, 2008
Christian churches have been called to “preach, teach, and heal” and
much of most clergypersons’ work is health-related. Clergy
ultimately are accountable for all the ministries of a congregation,
including ministries of healing and wholeness. They do so at a time
when congregations are increasingly stretched by the realities of
our economy, the demographics of aging, a fragmented health system
which leaves many vulnerable, and a culture that emphasizes “cure”
over “care” at any cost. In addition, work-related isolation, long
hours, and the intensive nature of ministry contribute to clergy
stress and poor personal health practices.
A new course at Eden, “Clergy Leadership in Health and Wholeness,”
to be offered February 2-May 11 on Mondays from 2:00-5:00 pm,
examines the role of wellness promotion and self-care for clergy and
congregations through the lens of history and best practices. The
course instructor is Rev. Dr. Deborah Patterson, Executive Director
of Deaconess Parish Nurse Ministries. For more information about
this and other course offerings, visit the website of Eden
Theological Seminary at
www.eden.edu
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4. Salem
Higginsville to host Advent Chorale
December 2, 2008
Salem United Church of Christ to Host 30th Annual Advent Chorale
The 30th annual Advent Chorale sponsored by the eight congregations
of the United Church of Christ of the Lafayette county area will be
at Salem United Church of Christ, 15th and Main Street in
Higginsville, on Sunday, December 7, 2008 at 6:00 p.m. The choir for
the Chorale is composed of approximately 30 voices from the eight
churches. The director will be Jamie smith, director at Salem United
Church of Christ. The organist will be Doris Jane Stoner.
Instrumentalists will be: Sarah Catts, flute; Mark Nolte, trumpet;
and Scott Lichte, cello. Gladys Lichte will accompany Scott Lichte
on the piano. The Salem Handbell Choir will play Christmas
selections prior to the service. Members of the Advent Choral are
from the UCC churches in Higginsville, Lexington, Mayview,
Concordia, Emma, Blackburn, Grand Pass and Levasy. They are as
follows: Grace Thilking, Karen Homfeld, Linda Burkhardt, Karen
Redman, Diane Wagner, Mary Dickmeier, Mary Homfeld, Betty Windmeyer,
Emily Bergsieker, Angie Green, Andy Mockridge, Myra Steffens, Janice
Hoefer, Juanita Wright, Mike Mockridge, Michelle West, Sandy Zeller,
Virginia Beckemeyer, June Thaller, Dennis Zeller, Melvin Beckemeyer,
David Windmeyer, Arthur Thaller, Sevier Hoefer, Steve Redman, Bob
Atkinson, David Salyer, Stanton Thompson, and Eric Schloman. The
public is invited to attend and enjoy the Advent and Christmas music
that will be shared. There will be fellowship time with refreshments
following the chorale. For additional information contact Salem UCC
at salemucc@ctcis.net
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5. UCC Divorce
Support Group Needed
December 2, 2008
If you know of a UCC congregation in the Metro St. Louis area that
has a divorce support group please contact Kirkwood UCC. Church
Secretary (314) 822-2240.
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6. Auction to
support Jamaican Partnership has begun
December 2. 2008
The Jamaica Missouri Partnership Group invites you to bid on a
• voucher for one night’s stay at the Hilton Garden Inn in
Independence Missouri. It can be used for the Conference Business
Meeting Halloween 2009
• Or, you may bid on one 8 ounce bag of Jamaica Mountain Choice
medium roasted ground coffee.
The bidding started December 1 and lasts 4 weeks, ending on Dec. 29.
We will keep you posted on the leading bids weekly. At ten pm, 29
Dec. bidding will close. All proceeds go to the Jamaica Missouri
Partnership account.
Please send your bids to Chuck Adams
ca6853@fidnet.com Thank
you for bidding.
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7.
Congregational Transformation Event in St. Joseph, MO
December 2, 2008
Heartland Cluster Congregational Transformation Event
March 6-7, 2009 at the Ramada St. Joseph in St. Joseph, Missouri
Purpose – congregational transformation, the unique journey for your
church. Gain the resources and insights. This event promises
meaningful and measurable outcomes!
Keynote Speaker – Sally Morgenthaler, best known perhaps for her
book, Worship Evangelism, brings a great spiritual journey and
clear, inspiring leadership for transformation.
The Process for your church – before, during and after the event
• Before – preparation – study, be clear about outcomes, bring your
team
• During the event – listen and learn from speakers and other
leaders, work with your team at the event, get help on the path of
being even more faithful and effective in your church
• After the event – coaching provided for each church for the next
year (at no extra charge) to continue your work and support and
connection with other churches
Costs – Early Bird Discount: Registration fee for one or two persons
is $100 each, 3 or more people from one congregation is $80 per
person. After February 1, fees increase to $120 and $100
Coming soon – watch for registration info at
www.heartlandtransformation.org
Contact for additional information is Bill or Donna Rose-Heim,
816-632-2237 or
nwareacc@nwareacc.org Sponsored by Disciples of Christ
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8. Help Needed
at Camp Mo-Val on Line Cabins
December 2, 2008
TRUMPETS!! BUGLES!! CYMBALS!!
The much anticipated renovation of the three line cabins at Camp
Mo-Val kicks off next Monday! Contracts have been signed and permits
are in process. Watch the web site and future E-Connections for
updates.
This is short notice, BUT if you have some time free this week
Wednesday – Saturday, December 3-6 – bring your cordless drill (or
not) and come on out to Mo-Val to help dismantle the cabins. The
heavy work will be done by the contractors, our focus is salvaging
wood, mirrors, grab bars, and other items that could be used
elsewhere in camp.
Bring a sack lunch; we’ll provide the coffee, tea and hot chocolate
as well as yummy cookies.
RSVP so we know who to expect, and just in case we finish all the
work before Saturday. Camp Office: 636-583-2730 or
moval2@mmsucc.org
P.S. Sorry for the short notice, but a critical funding piece moved
into place yesterday. Now work can officially begin.
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9. A Message
from Jeff Whitman, Conference Minister
December 3, 2008
Dear partners in ministry:
The season of Advent is upon us and you are all in my prayers as you
prepare to celebrate the birth of the Messiah. During a time of
great uncertainty and fear about future we have an opportunity to
proclaim a message of hope. I pray that this Christmas season will
be one of joy and spiritual renewal for you and the members of your
congregation.
I am writing to extend an invitation and to ask your help in
extending this invitation to members of your congregation. A few
weeks ago Charles Adams, the chair of our Jamaican partnership
committee, and I participated in a Global Ministries event in
Cleveland where we celebrated the Global mission work of our United
Church of Christ with partners all over the world. We met people who
are engaged in Global ministry and heard stories of global
partnerships between conferences of the UCC and partners in Latin
America, the Middle East, the Pacific Islands, Germany, and Asia.
Here in Missouri Mid-South we continue to celebrate our continued
partnership with the North Middlesex Council in Jamaica and we will
continue to work on ways to strengthen that partnership. At the same
time I would like to invite you to consider with me starting a
second partnership – this one with the Democratic Republic of the
Congo.
Why the Congo? The Congo is a county about one fourth the size of
the US with a population of more than 66 million people. It is a
county that is rich in natural resources. It is also a county that
has been and continues to be torn apart by warfare and violence.
Conflict and humanitarian crisis in the Congo have taken the lives
of almost 6 million people since 1998 – the largest genocide in the
world since WWII. The continuing violence claims the lives of as
many as 45,000 people every month. Sexual violence against women and
girls as young as 11 continues at an alarming rate. Although the
violence is in eastern Congo, our partners in the western part of
the country have not escaped. Hospitals, schools, roads, and other
infrastructure have all suffered from the conflict. During our
meeting in Cleveland Charles and I were told that one of the goals
of a global partnership is to meet our partners at the point of
deepest need. Our sisters and brothers in the Congo are engaged in
ministry in places where hope is in short supply and the people have
known far too much pain, loss, and suffering. How can we be partners
in ministry with those in the Congo who minister in situations that
appear to be hopeless? What can we learn from them about faithful
ministry during times of crisis? How do we work together to provide
comfort, and to speak and act for justice in a place that has known
so much suffering?
I would like to invite you to join me in exploring the possibility
of a partnership in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The first
step is to gather a group of people to meet with our executive for
Global Ministries in Africa – Sandra Gourdet. The purpose of this
meeting would be to learn about the joys and benefits of a
partnership, to get some help and direction in establishing a
partnership, and to explore the possibilities of a partnership in
the Congo. We would then establish a partnership committee to guide
and direct our work. My vision is that this will be a conference
partnership so I hope we will have representatives from all three of
our associations. If you would like to join me in exploring this new
ministry please send me an e-mail at
jeff@mmsucc.org or give
me a call at the conference office 314-962-8740 ext 77604. I would
also invite you to place the following bulletin announcement in your
Sunday bulletin, newsletter, or electronic communication:
The Missouri Mid-South Conference is exploring the possibility of
establishing a second global partnership with our partners in the
Democratic Republic of the Congo, a county about one fourth the size
of the US. Violence in this country has claimed the lives of almost
6 million people since 1998, the largest genocide in the world since
WWII. The first step in the process is to gather a group of
interested people for a meeting with our executive for Global
Ministries in Africa sometime in January or February. If you would
like to join us in exploring the joys and challenges of a new
partnership please speak with the pastor or contact our conference
minister Rev. Jeffrey Whitman by e-mail at
jeff@mmsucc.org or by
calling the conference office at 314-962-8740 ext 77604.
Thank you for your help in launching this new ministry. I look
forward to hearing from you
Peace
Jeffrey A. Whitman, Conference Minister
Missouri Mid-South Conference UCC
314-962-8740 ext 77604
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10. Farewell Service for
Richard Brueseke
December 3, 2008
Rev. Richard Brueseke will retire at the end of this month. There
will be a special Farewell Service for him Sunday, Dec. 28 during
the regular church service at 9:30 A.M. At Ebenezer "Stone" Church,
located at 6162 Stone Church Road, in rural Gerald Missouri. For
additional information call the church office at 573.437.5639.
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11. Madrigal Performance at
1st Congregational, Bonne Terre
December 3, 2008
The madrigal group TAPESTRY will bring to the area it's Christmas
gift of a performance of the traditional King’s College Christmas
Lessons and Carols. On SUNDAY, December 14 at 7pm. All are invited
to gather at the First Congregational United Church Christ in Bonne
Terre to hear this glorious Christmas presentation.
TAPESTRY, known through out the Midwest for it's musical excellence,
draws from the King's College, Cambridge service for this night of
Christmas celebration. The service is held in the impressive
sanctuary of this 3/5 replica of a British Christopher Wren church.
The public is invited, as well, to a reception following the
service. First Congregational Church is located at 20 Church Street,
Bonne Terre. Handicapped parking is available in the parking lot,
accessed by Elm Street. The evening is free and open to all. For
additional information contact Pastor Sally Ketterer at 573-358-1677
or revsally@sbcglobal.net
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12. BIG YOUTH MAILING
December 3, 2008
Planning for 2009?
The BIG Youth Mailing was delivered to the post office on Wednesday,
Nov 19th. It was sent via bulk mail which often takes 1, 2 or even 3
weeks for delivery of large items. However, many churches received
theirs within days.
Have you seen your church’s copy of the BIG Youth Mailing?
If not, check around the office, then wait a couple more days. If
your church still has not received the mailing, contact Stephanie in
the Conference office at
stephanie@mmsucc.org or the Youth Event Registrar at
moval@mmsucc.org to
receive a copy.
If you don’t need a hard copy, check on-line at
www.mmsucc.org The entire
packet is available for download.
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13. CYE 2009 - The Annual
Conference Youth Event
December 3, 2008
CYE 2009 = Fun, New Friends, Faith Building, Laughter, Singing,
Praise & Celebration and Good Food
Rev. Steve Miller, the retreat leader, is back by VERY popular
demand. During previous CYEs, Steve has challenged and inspired both
youth and adult participants. This year, he will weave together a
weekend of music, prayer, laughter, small group discussion, large
group presentations, and much more. The event will focus around a
pivotal verse of the Lord’s Prayer, Matthew 6:10 which provides a
brilliant vision of the kingdom of God.
This year a full house is expected. Plan now to attend so your youth
don’t miss out.
The Space Reservation system has been re-established this year in
anticipation of a sell-out crowd. (Full information about this is
available in the BIG Youth Mailing and on-line.)
The Postmark Deadline for Space Reservations and Deposits is
Wednesday, Dec. 31. At that time, the names of the actual
participants are NOT required – just the number of spaces your
church would like to reserve and a $20 non-refundable deposit per
space.
If space is available, additional participants will be accepted
after this date.
Registration for this event is by church group, not individual.
The full CYE packet was included in the BIG Youth Mailing that was
sent to churches in mid-November via bulk mail. It is also available
for download on the Conference web site at
www.mmsucc.org
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14. Candle light Vesper
service at 1st Congregational, Bonne Terre
December 4, 2008
Christmas Eve at First Congregational United Church of Christ in
Bonne Terre. Gather at 4pm for a candle light vesper service of
carols and hear again the wonderful story about the savior’s birth.
In the quiet beauty of this lovely sanctuary may the simple story
and the beautiful music of the season touch your heart. No matter
who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are always
welcome at First Congregational UCC, 20 Church Street in Bonne
Terre. For more information contact Rev. Sally Ketterer, pastor at
573 358 1677 or
revsally@sbcglobal.net
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15. Blue Christmas Service
offered at Hope UCC, St. Louis
December 8, 2008
Hope UCC in St. Louis, with the St. Louis Hills Clergy and Laity
Association, will be offering a Blue Christmas Service on Friday,
December 19 at 7 p.m. It is a service of light and hope for people
living with grief and loss during the Christmas season. A bulletin
insert is available via e-mail. For that or any questions, contact
Karen Knodt at
kknodthope@aol.com
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16. Bidding up-date on
Jamaican Auction
December 8, 2008
The Jamaica Missouri Partnership Group invites you to bid on a
• voucher for one night’s stay at the Hilton Garden Inn in
Independence Missouri. It can be used for the Conference Business
Meeting Halloween 2009 – CURRENT BID IS $25 – What a steal!
• Or, you may bid on one 8 ounce bag of Jamaica Mountain Choice
medium roasted ground coffee. – CURRENT BID IS $20.
The bidding started December 1 and lasts 4 weeks, ending on Dec. 29.
This is your weekly up-date. What bargains! You have to take a
chance and bid on these items!!!! At ten pm, 29 Dec. bidding will
close. All proceeds go to the Jamaica Missouri Partnership account.
Please send your bids to Chuck Adams
ca6853@fidnet.com Thank
you for bidding.
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17. December Parish Paper
December 8, 2008
Attached is the
December issue of The Parish Paper, a two page newsletter edited
by Herb Miller, Lyle Schaller, and Cynthia Woolever. Each edition
will discuss issues, share ideas, or offer insights on an area of
parish ministry. The December issue discusses: “How Effective Is Our
Financial Communication?”
Didn’t get the previous issues? Don’t know what The Parish Paper is?
A statement from Jeff Whitman, Conference Minister can be found at
www.mmsucc.org/resources/parishpaper.asp as well as past
issues.
How you will receive the Parish Paper: The December issue is
attached to this email as a PDF. Some of you will get it, and some
will not have anything attached because your Internet Service
Provider (ISP) has blocked this attachment. Therefore, the Parish
Paper is also available for you on the Conference Website
www.mmsucc.org Just look
for the link to Resources, and the drop down menu will offer Parish
Paper as an option. We will post future editions of the Parish Paper
on the website as we get them.
Below are some additional instructions on the use of The Parish
Paper:
Our organization's purchase of photocopy rights for The Parish Paper
INCLUDES:
1. Permission to provide copies to our staff and the congregations
within our constituency in any of the following ways: E-mail, U.S.
Mail, newspaper, meetings, training events, and our Website.
2. Permission for each congregation within our constituency to (a)
photocopy or electronically distribute for local use as many copies
as it needs, (b) post them on its Website, and (c) quote sentences
and paragraphs.
Your Congregation does NOT have permission (a) to delete the
copyright notice on page 2; (b) to re-write, paraphrase, or change
the wording of sentences and paragraphs; or (c) to give ANY THIRD
PARTY - other than your staff and constituents - permission to
photocopy or reprint (in any quantity, no matter how small, whether
for free distribution or for sale).
If your congregation uses a U.S. Post Office Nonprofit Mailing
Permit to distribute photocopies with its newsletter or other
mailings, most local Post Offices require that every item carry your
congregation's name and address. Above The Parish Paper masthead,
type your congregation's name, address, and "Photocopied by
Permission."
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18. "Longest Night of the
Year" Service at Christ UCC Maplewood
December 8, 2008
Church UCC in Maplewood will be hosting a "Longest Night of the
Year" Advent worship service on Sunday evening, December 21st at
7:00 p.m. This liturgy is designed to help those who may be
discouraged or sad during the season of hope and joy. Through
scriptures, carols and candles we will acknowledge those challenges
of our lives and yet will be reminded that the story of the
incarnation holds strength and hope for each of us. Rev. Frank
Proctor serves as the interim pastor for Christ Church UCC which is
located at the intersection of Bellevue Avenue and Bruno in
Maplewood. For more information call the church office at
314-644-3033.
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19. Church Leader's Winter
Workshop
December 10, 2008
ATTENTION Church Moderators, Presidents, Vice-Presidents,
Treasurers, Financial Secretaries and Clergy:
The St. Louis Association in cooperation with the Association Church
and Ministry Committee will hold a CHURCH LEADER'S WINTER WORKSHOP
for Church Council/Consistory Presidents, Vice-Presidents,
Moderators, Treasurers, Financial Secretaries, and Clergy newly
called, installed, or ordained.
Date: Sunday, February 22, 2009
Place: Parkway UCC
Time: 3:00 p.m.--5:00p.m.
The purpose of the workshop is to exchange information, resources,
and advice that may be pertinent to your role as church leader.
You will have a chance to ask questions of and share ideas with
church leaders in similar positions.
You will have the opportunity to meet our Interim Associate
Conference Minister Rev. Dr. Jack Seville.
As a part of this event, the Association Church and Ministry
Committee will hold a clergy orientation for those clergy new to the
area or new to their position.
Please put this event on your church calendar. Registration
information will follow in January.
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20. Prayers needed for Rev.
Harry Sam and Family
December 10, 2008
We are saddened to learn of the death of Solomon Sam, son of the
Rev. Harry Sam, pastor of one of our Marshallese congregations in
Springdale Arkansas. Solomon was killed in action in Iraq on
December 4. A Memorial Service will be announced at a later date.
Our prayers accompany Rev. Sam and all in their family during this
difficult time. You may wish to send notes of sympathy to them at:
PO Box 301, Springdale, AR 72764
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21. Prayers needed for
Sonia Louden Walker
December 10, 2008
Our prayers are with Sonia Louden Walker, who is currently serving
as Associate Pastor at First Congregational UCC in Memphis
Tennessee, on the death of her husband on November 11. Sonia most
recently also lost her mother. Please include her in your prayers as
she deals with this time of great sadness. Expressions of sympathy
may be sent to Sonia at 5050 Cole Road, Memphis, TN 38117.
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22. A Message from Jack
Batten
December 11, 2008
A Message from Jack Batten:
“To fellow members of the Missouri Mid-South Conference:
Thank you all so very much for all the prayers you offered and all
the cards you sent during Margaret's illness and following her
death. I deeply appreciate all the support you have given me and my
family.
In Christ's’ Name, Jack Batten”
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23. Youth and General Synod
2009
December 11, 2008
Registration for the Youth @ General Synod 2009 program has opened,
and we invite all senior high youth groups to participate in this
enriching faith experience!
What: Youth @ General Synod will combine General Synod events with
three days of service projects, evening programs, social
opportunities and after hours activities. It will be a great
opportunity for youth to learn about and participate in the wider
church and to grow in faith, service and friendship with peers in
the United Church of Christ.
Who: Youth @ General Synod is a youth program for high school youth
groups (ages 14-18/grades 9 - 12). Youth groups may register with a
minimum of 2 adults and 2 youth, with adult genders matching the
gender of the youth. Individuals may not register on their own, but
must be with a group meeting this minimum; youth group leaders and
their adult chaperones will be responsible for the supervision of
their youth during the event.
When and Where: General Synod is in Grand Rapids, Michigan; the
youth program will run from June 24 - June 30, 2009 (with July 1st
serving as a travel day).
Why: Since financial and transportation considerations force many
youth groups to choose between a mission/service trip and wider
church gathering each summer, we are offering a General Synod
program that includes mission/service experience.
Cost: $465 for Youth and $515 for Adults. The price difference
reflects a $50.00 General Synod registration discount for youth.
For more information go to
www.ucc.org/youth
The documents on the UCC youth page will provide an overview of the
program and registration process, as well as a link to the group
registration site. You can also go to the Conference website (www.mmsucc.org)
and at the top left you will find a link for General Synod 2009
Youth Participation.
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24. Information from the
UCC Pension Boards
December 11, 2008
Information concerning Basic and Participating Annuity payments for
2009 is available at:
www.pbucc.org Individual letters to annuitants receiving their
pension income from the Basic and Participating Annuities were
mailed out on December 9.
Mike Downs will host the third in the monthly series of conference
calls on financial markets on Tuesday, December 16, at Noon (EST).
To participate, dial 1.800.260.0712, and enter Access Code 968418 at
the prompt. Calls will also be held at Noon on Tuesday, January 13,
2009 and Tuesday, February 10, 2009. An e-blast reminder will be
sent in advance of each month’s call.
Members of MMSUCC who wish to learn more about opportunities to
purchase Long-Term Care Insurance may find information on LTC
Partners' dedicated web site for UCC employees:
www.ltcpbucc.com
or by calling 1.866.471.4072, ext. 2305 (please note the revised
extension) to speak with a long-term care insurance specialist.
Long-term care insurance is purchased directly from John Hancock and
Prudential, with a discount for UCC employees. Beginning January 15,
2009 and ending April 14, 2009, there will be a limited opportunity
for active employees under age 65 to qualify for coverage under
relaxed underwriting. After April 14, the discounts will still be
available but more stringent health underwriting will be required.
Information on the new IRS regulations governing 403(b) retirement
plans has been updated and may be found at:
http://www.pbucc.org/interior_art.asp?id=Retirement_Plan_News_Bulletin
This is especially important information for church employers.
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25. Clergy New to Eastern
Association
December 12, 2008
After many months of searching four congregations in the Eastern
Association have called new pastors that will begin serving the
congregations in December or January. We invite you to welcome them
into the covenantal family of our Association and Conference.
Rev. Michael Kasevich began November 24 as pastor of St. Paul United
Church of Christ, Old Monroe. Michael is a recent graduate of Bangor
Theological Seminary and comes to us from serving a congregation in
northern Maine as a licensed pastor. He was ordained into the
Christian ministry in November 2008 by the Hartford East Association
of the Connecticut Conference. Michael and his wife have begun to
settle into life in the parsonage at Old Monroe.
Ms. Leah Atkinson began December 1 as the Associate Pastor at St.
Peter’s United Church of Christ, Washington. Leah has been in-care
with the Eastern Association and is approved for ordination. She
will be ordained into the Christian ministry in the new year at her
home church of St. John United Church of Christ in St. Charles. Leah
was recently married in October as well.
Rev. Rick Riedel begins December 22 as pastor at St. Paul United
Church of Christ, Hermann. The first worship services he leads in
Hermann will be on Christmas Eve—where we know there will be a great
turn-out to meet to the new pastor as well as bring praise to God
for the birth of the Christ child. Rick comes to us from most
recently serving a church in South Dakota. He has been a United
Church of Christ pastor since 2002. Rick, his wife, and children
will make their home in the Hermann area.
Rev. John Attaway begins to serve Good Shepherd United Church of
Christ, St. Charles as pastor on January 15. John comes to us most
recently from Iowa, but also served congregations in Kansas and
Wisconsin. John and his wife will make their home in the St. Charles
area.
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26. Prayers needed
December 17, 2008
Your prayers are requested for the 18 year old daughter of Debby
Harness, Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries at St. Johns
UCC – Mehlville. Debby’s daughter is in the hospital with MRSA - a
very strong staph infection. She is in isolation and has already had
one surgery. She may have to have a second surgery based on test
results this Thursday. Please keep her and her family in your
prayers. Expressions of concern can be sent to the family at Debby
Harness, 2432 Whitshire, St. Louis, MO 63129-3631.
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27. Deal of the Season!
December 17, 2008
The Jamaica Missouri Partnership Group invites you to bid on a
• voucher for one night’s stay at the Hilton Garden Inn in
Independence Missouri. It can be used for the Conference Business
Meeting Halloween 2009 or a week-end get-away for you and your best
friend – CURRENT BID IS $25 – Folks, this is a REAL bargain!
• Or, you may bid on one 8 ounce bag of Jamaica Mountain Choice
medium roasted ground coffee. – CURRENT BID IS $20.
The bidding started December 1 and lasts 4 weeks, ending on Dec. 29.
This is your weekly up-date. What bargains! You have to take a
chance and bid on these items!!!! At ten pm, 29 Dec. bidding will
close. All proceeds go to the Jamaica Missouri Partnership account.
Please send your bids to Chuck Adams
ca6853@fidnet.com Thank
you for bidding.
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28. Give a Gift to your
church's Youth Leaders
December 17, 2008
It's not too late to give a Christmas present--to your church's
Youth Leaders! Mark Yaconelli, the author of Contemplative Youth
Ministry: Practicing the Presence of Jesus will be giving a workshop
for youth leaders on February 5-7, 2009 at Broadway Christian Church
(DOC) in Columbia, MO. Helping to send members of your youth
ministry team to this inspiring and transformative event would be a
wonderful way to say "Thank you for all you do."
Details and registration forms can be found on the Missouri
Mid-South Conference website (www.mmsucc.org) (go to "Youth and
Young Adults"/"Youth Leader Resources.")
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29. Important Update on New
403(b) Plan Regulations
December 17, 2008
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced a delay in the date
by which some churches and ministries that contribute to more than
one 403(b) retirement plan must have new retirement plan documents
written and adopted.
More importantly, the IRS has not announced any delay in the January
1, 2009 effective date for compliance by these churches and
ministries that support multiple plans. These new rules will place
onerous responsibilities on UCC churches and church-related
employers that sponsor 403(b) retirement plans other than the
Pension Boards' Annuity Fund. By January 1, these employers must
accept the added burdens of federal rules that require:
• beginning the process of creating completely rewritten plan
documents
• administrative responsibilities for coordination of benefits
• limitations on the freedom to transfer money among retirement
plans
If contributions to more than one retirement plan are made after
January 1, 2009, the employer becomes obligated to fully conform to
the administrative and operational provisions of the new
regulations. Only the obligation to immediately have a new,
comprehensive plan document has been relieved.
Although we have helped many churches and ministries resolve the
burdens that created that can come on January 1, we are concerned
that all who are affected have not taken the opportunity to discuss
their options with us. For a compliance review, please contact Jim
Herod at 1.800.642.6543, ext. 2830 or Don Barnes at 1.800.642.6543,
ext. 2720 as soon as possible.
Click HERE to listen to an audio Q&A presentation on the new 403(b)
regulations and to learn about the options available to employees
and employers through the Pension Boards.
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Because the Annuity Fund is recognized by the IRS as a "church
plan," the Pension Boards can provide a 403(b) solution that will
save employers money while offering employees a number of
professionally managed investment options.
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30. Death of Edgar Moeller
December 18, 2009
We extend our Christian sympathy to the family of Edgar Moeller who
passed away on Wednesday morning, December 17. Edgar is survived by
his son, Rev. Bruce Moeller of Femme Osage United Church of Christ,
near Augusta; by his granddaughter Miranda Moeller, the Director of
Youth Ministry at St. Martins United Church of Christ in Dittmer;
and by his grandson Eric Moeller, one of the staff at UCC Camp
Mo-Val near Union. Visitation is scheduled at the Styninger Krupp
Funeral Home in Nashville, Illinois on Thursday, December 18 from
4pm until 8pm. The funeral is Friday, December 19 at 11am at St.
John's United Church of Christ, Plum Hill (near Nashville, Il).
Cards can be sent to:
Rev. Bruce and Eric Moeller, 4360 Cappeln Osage Road, Augusta, MO.
63332
Miranda Moeller, 11327 LeMonaco Court Apt 21A, St. Louis, MO 63126
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31. Lay Pastoral Care
Workshop to be held in Belleville
December 18, 2008
Lay Pastoral Care Workshop to be held in Belleville
A “Foundations for BeFriender Ministry” workshop is scheduled for
March 9-12, 2009, in Belleville, IL.. The workshop is for leaders
who want to implement and maintain a listening ministry of lay
pastoral care in their churches. A team of 2 to 5 leaders from a
church should attend – the team would include clergy and/or at least
one paid staff person as well as one or more lay volunteers.
The workshop will start at 8:30 am and go to 5 pm each of the four
days. It will be hosted by St. Paul UCC, 115 West “B” Street,
Belleville, IL 62221. To register or for more information call toll
free 1-866-468-8708 or email
info@befrienderministry.org or check their website at
www.befrienderministry.org
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32. Death of Catherine
Wetzel Noonan
December 18, 2008
Our prayers are with Rev. John Noonan whose wife Carolyn Wetzel
Noonan died during open heart surgery on Dec. 17th. The funeral will
be held in Pekin, IL at a date and time to be determined. Rev.
Noonan served as pastor at St. Mark’s UCC in Arnold from 1967 – 1975
and at St. Peter’s UCC in Owensville from 1975 – 1984. His late
brother was Pastor Larry Noonan who served at Faith UCC in
Wentzville. Condolences may be sent to Rev. Noonan at 1705 Crescent
Dr., Pekin, IL 61554.
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33. Midwest Region UCC
Young Clergy Event
December 18, 2008
2030 Clergy
The Midwest Region of the UCC Young Clergy Event: Imagining Church
with Doug Pagitt.
When: 3:00 pm April 27 through Noon April 30, 2009
How much? $285—single room includes meals; $225— double room (need a
roommate) includes meals; $110—for commuters includes meals.
Where: The Cenacle Retreat & Conference Center, 513 W
Fullerton Parkway, Chicago, IL 60614
www.cenaclesisters.org/chicago-retreat-conference-center/
Continuing Ed budget kinda wimpy? Ask about scholarship help. We
want you to come! Some free parking is available at Cenacle, offsite
parking available for $6 per day with a Cenacle voucher. It’s a
deal.
Who is Doug Pagitt? Doug is the founder of Solomon’s Porch in
the Twin Cities and co-founder of EmergentVilliage.
Look up:
www.dougpagitt.com Is he cool? Yes
What is 2030 Clergy? Clergy in their 20s, 30s, early 40s. If
you are clergy and you have a glimmer of hope that the stock market
can rebound before you need to retire, come on down! Can I invite my
clergy friends, even non-UCC friends? This is mandatory. Will we see
visions and dream dreams about the future of the church? It’s on the
agenda. Will we talk about how we get to the promised land when we
aren’t starting from scratch, but are starting from the Egypt's of
old buildings and aging congregations? Betcha a dollar it will come
up. Will we have time to have fun, time to hang out, time to explore
Chicago? We are clergy—we are party animals.
Questions? Rev. Tisha Brown (608) 836-1455 (p) (608) 836-7658
(f)
hope@madisonchristiancommunity.org
Or Rev. Todd Smith-Lippert
plymouth@mhtc.net
tslippert@mhtc.net (608)935-5727
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34. Choir Director/Organist
Needed
December 18, 2008
Pilgrim Congregational United Church of Christ, St. Louis, is
looking for an interim part-time choir director/organist for Sunday
morning worship service and possibly one weeknight choir rehearsal
per week. As Pilgrim is a multiracial Open and Affirming
congregation, an applicant should have the ability to play and
direct diverse musical styles. This position is available beginning
December 28, 2008. For more information, contact Rev. Cindy Bumb,
(314) 367-8173,
revbumb@sbcglobal.net Pilgrim Church is located at 826
Union Boulevard, just north of Delmar in the West End of St. Louis
City.
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35. Last Day for Jamaican
Partnership Auction
December 29, 2008
The Jamaica Missouri Partnership Group invites you to bid on a
• voucher for one night’s stay at the Hilton Garden Inn in
Independence Missouri. It can be used for the Conference Business
Meeting Halloween 2009 or a week-end get-away for you and your best
friend – CURRENT BID IS $80.
• Or, you may bid on one 8 ounce bag of Jamaica Mountain Choice
medium roasted ground coffee. – CURRENT BID IS $20.
The bidding started December 1 and ends at 10pm TODAY (Dec. 29).
This is your last chance. What bargains! You have to take a chance
and bid on these items!!!! All proceeds go to the Jamaica Missouri
Partnership account. Please send your bids to Chuck Adams
ca6853@fidnet.com Thank
you for bidding.
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36. Still time to join the
Philippine Immersion Trip
December 29, 2008
The Philippine Immersion Trip
There is still time to be a part of this transforming experience. If
you did not send in your first payment of $150 in December just add
that to the suggested Jan. 30 payment of $700. The end of February
$950, and the end of March $999. The group would appreciate payments
on this schedule but understand you may have to go into April.
However, if you can get a significant payment in by the end of
February so they can count participants, they will accept payments
through April 10. Send payments to: United Theological Seminary of
the Twin Cities, 3000 Fifth Street NW, New Brighton, MN 55112
Attention: Dr. Eleazar Fernandez. Make your payment to UTS and write
Philippine Immersion trip on memo line.
If you would like more info please e-mail or call: Dr. Eleazar
Fernandez e-mail
efernandez@unitedseminary.ed phone 651-255-6131 or Rev.
Karen Aitkens e-mail
pk@bethelucckc.org phone 816-453-2628
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