Greetings!
In the sermon talkback gathering last Sunday at 12 noon, a couple of participants shared how they want to be open and inclusive about gender identity and sexual orientation, but they felt a bit overwhelmed with new information.

I am so glad these people were there and said what they did.

Last week in adult education zoom, guest speakers from Outreach Madison helped us understand gender identity, sexual orientation, and more. And they introduced us to "genderbread person"-who helps us keep learning.
Most kids these days are familiar and comfortable with these terms and categories. But the older we are, the more challenging it may be. Even well-intentioned people may feel overwhelmed.

My encouragement to you is to keep learning and listening.

We have access to plenty of information. John Hopkins has a helpful website with info on Transgender and Gender Fluid Resources for kids, teens and adults.

As we learn, we need to listen, especially for "the voices of people long silenced," as "A Brief Statement of Faith" guides us, and as Jesus shows us by example.

We are all beloved children of God, and we're called to love our neighbors--all of them.

Grace and peace,
Charlie
PS--After decades serving God through Covenant as our Church Administrator, Mary Kieta has announced her retirement. Her message is below. The Personnel Committee will have to work extra hard to fill Mary's shoes!
Dear Covenant Friends,
I wish to share with you my decision to enter retirement after Easter this Spring. And I want you to know it has been both a great joy and privilege to serve you as Church Administrator; due in great part to the many words of appreciation and support you have showered me with these many years. 

Though I’m leaving this path of service, I’m continuing my journey of faith beside you as we continue learning and living God’s love. My deepest thanks and God’s grace and peace to you all,
--Mary
Worship
  • Livestream services at 9:00 & 11:00am
  • NEW! Visit our Worship Headquarters website for everything you need to worship with us online!
  • Let's Talk About Sex Sermon/Adult Ed: Week 4
  • Rev. Lisa Hart preaching: "Bringing our Whole Selves to God" (Genesis 1:26-31)
  • Children's Time with Cindy Lovell
  • Sermon Talk-Back Opportunity at 12:00pm on Zoom
  • Children's At-Home Sunday School Lessons available HERE!
Adult Education
Join us Sunday at 10:00am on Zoom for Week 4 of a 6-week series Let’s Talk About Sex: Theological Reflection on Sex, Sexuality, Gender Identity and More. This week, our guest preacher Rev. Lisa Hart leads us with "Talking with Children and Youth About Sex & Sexuality". Lisa is a minister in the United Church of Christ and serves as Associate Conference Minister for Faith Formation and Justice Ministries for the Wisconsin Conference UCC. Sexual violence and LGBTQ+ issues are a big part of her ministry focus, among many other. Lisa is a trained facilitator for "Our Whole Lives" curriculum, a comprehensive sexuality education program of the UCC. Here's what she has to say about this Adult Ed class:
 
Talking with Children and Youth About Sex & Sexuality - We aren’t always comfortable talking about sex & sexuality, especially in the church. Lisa will share the guiding values and principles of the Our Whole Lives program, which provide a framework for talking with children and youth about sex and sexuality. We will talk about why it is important for faith communities to engage in these conversations and the ways in which individuals, families and the faith community benefit.
 
Click on the image for the Facebook event and INVITE your friends! For more info on this series or Adult Ed at Covenant, visit covenantmadison.org/adult-ed-classes. All Adult Ed classes will be recorded and shared on our website and YouTube page.
"I AM" Lenten Devotional Sign-Up
This Lent, we will have a Devotional called I AM, based on the gospel according to John and Jesus' "I AM" statements. Would you consider offering a daily reflection to this devotional?
It doesn't need to be individuals, it could be the whole family. If you have children, they could write it. This is a chance to have fun and get creative! Don't feel like you need to cover the whole passage, just write about what part of your chosen passage speaks to you. Contact Pastor Jeff with any questions.