August 1, 2022
NACCC NEWS
Community Connections
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A Timely Theme
Rev. Arthur Ritter, Moderator
Like many of you, I am still processing the Annual Meeting and Conference In Wichita. It was wonderful seeing friends and colleagues in person. I am grateful for the technology that allowed many to be part of our business meeting virtually. 
 
During the meeting there was much discussion about the problems our churches face. There is uncertainty that might make us uncomfortable and discouraged. Yet in the workshops and presentations, and even in the business meeting, I heard words and conversations that offer hope. Our minds are open to new ways of thinking. Our hearts are open to new ways of being. We see the challenges clearly but through God’s help we seek to turn them into possibilities.
 
I look forward to next year’s meeting in Milwaukee, whose theme is "The Daring Endeavor of Being Church.” Let us lift one another in prayer as we dream of possibilities in the midst of real ministry.
Vision
Jodee Lord, Vice Moderator
It is an honor for me to serve as the Vice-Moderator of the NACCC. I look forward to working with those on the Board of Directors, Leadership Council and NACCC staff.

As I reflected on the Annual Meeting and Conference in Wichita, the word “vision” keeps coming to my mind. Vision defined from the Cambridge Dictionary is the ability to think about or plan for the future with imagination or wisdom. The conversations I had the privilege of being a part of echoed a great hope for the future of the NACCC. I encourage you to jump on board and be a part of the excitement and enthusiasm within the NACCC. By working together, much can be done.
Renewed Enthusiasm for Giving
Sandra Leonard, Congregational Foundation Board of Governors
What a joy it was to attend my first Annual Meeting and Conference (AMC) as a member of the Board of Governors of the Congregational Foundation. The welcoming fellowship – the smiles – the energy – and the knowledge gained were so much more than anticipated. 
 
I returned home to Rhode Island with a fresh understanding and renewed enthusiasm for giving to the Shared Ministries Fund (SMF) as churches and individuals. Did you conduct a pastoral search? Donate to a mission which was vetted by the NACCC? Enroll a congregant in the Lay Ministry Training Program? Attend the AMC? The monies contributed to the SMF are used to provide financial support to these and other programs as well as the overall operations. Please consider your giving and commitment to Congregationalism by donating to the Shared Ministries Fund. 
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Some current topics:
~Sunday School
curriculum
~ Using different voices
in worship
Listening Tour Update
Rev. Dr. Ashley Cleere, Executive Director
Between July 8 and 18, I set foot in seven church buildings and visited with members of 20 NACCC congregations in Maine and Massachusetts. Some gatherings included members of multiple churches. Other stops involved spending several hours with one community. I heard prayer requests for church growth, pastoral leadership, our nation, and Ukraine. During Sunday worship, we grieved two baby eagles who died while learning to fly. Campers of all ages learned new songs and cherished familiar hymns. Many congregations provide food for neighbors in distinctive ways. These stories of faithful commitment nourish hope for the NACCC. Photos and details can be found here.
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Submissions for the September issue are due by August 20, 2022
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