Pastor continues father's storytelling legacy: Pilgrim Press publishes "The Salamander at the Manger" - United Church of Christ | Saint Francis of Assisi might have introduced to the world the first Christmas nativity - presenting the birth of Christ tableau in Greccio, Italy in 1223 | | | | |
Support the Christmas Fund
United Church Board for Ministerial Assistance (UCBMA)
Just as the light filled the world with joy in Matthew 2:10, our Christmas Fund Community fills both our givers and receivers with the happiness of knowing we are connected through generosity.
Last year, your generosity touched the lives of 766 individuals who received grants that provided new hearing aids, supported a family to escape a war-torn country, and eased the burden of mounting medical bills. These aren’t just numbers; they’re stories of hope made possible by you.
If you have any questions about giving to The Christmas Fund or receiving its loving support—for you or someone you know—feel free to reach out to me at 212.729.2738 or pramsey@pbucc.org. Thank you again for your generosity.
Rev. Dr. Paul Leon Ramsey
Director, Church Relations & Philanthropy
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Got Holiday Stress? Self-Care Can Help | Protect your mental health during the holiday season with these 9 self-care tips that include learning to say no and taking the time to write down your feelings. | | | | |
2026 UCC Climate Action Commissioning Service
with Rev. Jim Antal
Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at noon CT
As we enter a year of critical importance in the struggle for climate justice, the UCC is holding a Climate Action Commissioning Service.
Gather with us as we faithfully prepare ourselves to take action in the coming year. Our preacher will be the Rev. Jim Antal, author of "Climate Church, Climate World." Rev. Antal currently serves as the Special Advisor on Climate Justice to UCC General Minister and President.
Even if you cannot make the live event on Wednesday, January 14th at 12 pm CT, still register, and we will send you a recording. Register today!
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Ecumenical Prayer Service and
Signing Ceremony
Ecumenism Metro Chicago
Saturday, January 24, 2025 from 2 - 4 pm
Growing in Christian unity and the care for God’s creation, we will gather in prayer and action for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (WPCU) at St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Apostolic Church, 6700 W. Diversey Ave., Chicago, IL 60707 on Saturday, January 24, 2 - 4 pm.
This ecumenical prayer service will be grounded in the WPCU theme “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling” (Ephesians 4:4). This reflects the mission of EMC that “seeks to engage all the baptized, their communions and extended ministries in Chicagoland in living together with prayer, action and a coordinated voice that respects distinctions among traditions and extends God’s love through Christ and the Holy Spirit, for all the world.”
EMC judicatories (including the Illinois Conference) will sign joint statements of actions at the end of the service, which are grounded in EMC’s Declaration to care, protect and preserve God’s gift of creation, for all of the earth is the Lord’s. (Psalm 24:1). The two statements proclaim our Christian resolve to
These statements are a clear public witness of EMC’s Declaration that “taking decisive restorative action is a moral and religious imperative.”
The mission of Ecumenism Metro Chicago (EMC) seeks to engage all the baptized, their communions and extended ministries in Chicagoland in living together with prayer, action and a coordinated voice that respects distinctions among traditions and extends God’s love through Christ and the Holy Spirit, for all the world.
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Applications Open for Global HOPE: Migration, Immigration, Refugee and Asylee (MIRA) Unified Grant
UCC Justice and Peace Action Network
The Global HOPE Office offers three grants through its Refugee and Migration Services ministry to encourage local UCC congregations, associations, conferences, and covenanted ministries to engage in ministry to migrants, immigrants, refugees, and asylees in their midst.
Applications are open! Contact Megan Bergert at bergertm@ucc.org with any questions.
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Holiday gift guide: 12 meaningful gift ideas that make a difference from the UCC - United Church of Christ | As Christmas draws near, this gift guide from the United Church of Christ offers suggestions for sharing holiday cheer in a way that supports meaningful | | | | |
End of Year Fundraising
Tower Hill and
Pilgrim Park Camps
Whether it is high school and college students giving back to the local community, children and youth fostering connections during summer camp, clergy taking moments of rest, families spending quality time together, or congregations deepening their bonds, moving beyond the everyday and into the sacred is transformative. Please visit: https://outdoorministries.campbraingiving.com to contribute to another year of life-changing experiences.
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First Congregational Church of Naperville's Pursuit of Historic Landmark Status
Naperville’s Historic Preservation Commission voted unanimously to recommend landmark status for the First Congregational Church of Naperville.
Founded in 1833, two years after Naperville was established, First Congregational is the oldest church in DuPage County, the oldest Congregational church in northern Illinois, and the first church in Naperville to seek landmark status for its historic building. Its past and current members include people who have made significant contributions to the city and have been active in social justice causes.
It is situated at the intersection of Benton Avenue and Center Street in downtown Naperville, on land donated by Captain Morris Sleight in 1845. The original frame structure was replaced in 1906 by the limestone sanctuary.
The sanctuary building offers a distinguished example of Gothic Revival with limestone and 27 stained-glass windows crafted by local artisans. Over the 119 years, it has been more than a place of worship — it has served as a cornerstone for civic engagement, compassion, and community in downtown Naperville.
The decision to seek landmark status reflects the congregation’s commitment to preserve its heritage and honor its architectural beauty, rich history, and ongoing mission as a love and justice congregation. The church remains an active and welcoming faith community, offering outreach, education, and support to Naperville residents and beyond.
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Join us at the Retirement Reception for
Reverend Robert Wang
The Congregational Church of Algonquin
109 Washington Street
Algonquin, IL 60102
Sunday, December 28, 2025, at 11 am
Please join us for a special retirement reception immediately following the 10 am worship service on Sunday, December 28, 2025.
Come share a memory, offer a blessing, and celebrate the incredible impact Pastor Bob has had since his ordination in 1989. We look forward to gathering to thank him for his faithful service.
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Honoring Rev. Edward Goode’s Memory – One Year Later
It’s hard to believe that a year has passed since we gathered to celebrate the life and memory of our beloved Edward.
As we reflect on this past year, we’re grateful to share the full-length memorial video—a beautiful collection made possible through your words, photos, and videos. Your contributions helped us create something that truly captures his warmth, humor, and love for all of us.
In many ways, this moment feels like gathering once again at Edward’s table—sharing stories, laughter, and fellowship, just as he would have wanted. We hope this video gives you a chance to pause, remember, and feel his presence with us once more.
Video Link
View/submit tributes on the memorial website
Edward Goode Memorial
Thank you for being part of this journey and for helping us keep his light shining brightly.
With love and gratitude,
A few of Ed's Kids!
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Anti-Racism Resources for Families, Youth Leaders, and People Who Work with Youth and Children - United Church of Christ | What OWL is doing: While anti-bias has been an intentional part of Our Whole Lives from its inception, we are aware that there are many places where we | | | |
The Art of Wilding is a 5-Day Expedition for Women Leaders
Convergence and FutureWomenX
July 19-24, 2026
Wind River Range in Lander, Wyoming
Join Victoria Foster of FutureWomenX & Cameron Trimble of Convergence on retreat in the backcountry of beautiful Wyoming. The Art of Wilding is a 5-Day Expedition for Women Leaders. We will spend the week reconnecting to nature, exploring our inner landscapes for change, and engaging the wisdom of spiritual teachings. Click here to learn more.
We invite you to go off the grid and into our hearts on our Art of Wilding Expedition, July 19-24, 2026, on a private woman-owned and operated ranch in Wind River Range in Lander, Wyoming.
This 5-day Expedition is a partnership between Convergence and FutureWomenX. Together, we will gather eight leaders from across industries and sectors in the backcountry of Wyoming as a radical act of renewal and wayfinding. We will reconnect to nature, explore our landscapes for change, and leverage the wisdom and sisterhood of peers.
We believe in the power of women to change the world. Will you answer the call?
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Roots of Resilience: Black History Through the Eyes of Faith
Preorder from Friendship Press
Ships January 6, 2026
Roots of Resilience: Black History Through the Eyes of Faith is a transformative guide designed to empower churches and communities to teach Black History with confidence and conviction. At a time when public education faces challenges in preserving these vital narratives, this resource places the stories of Black Americans within the context of faith, resilience, and justice.
Grounded in biblical principles, Roots of Resilience connects historical struggles and triumphs to the ongoing call for equity and love in action. Readers, congregations, and small groups alike will discover how understanding the past can illuminate the path toward a better future.
Preorder here
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PATHWAYS Theological Education Courses
for Colectivo Community
El Colectivo y PATHWAYS Educación Teológica: En Espanol
The Colectivo and PATHWAYS Theological Education are excited to present an easy way for the Colectivo community to register for courses relevant to our work. PATHWAYS has identified the following courses for Colectivo folks:
Latinx Context and Spanish language resources:
MP30605 - CRITICAL THINKING: Preaching Social Justice and Liberation Theology (Proclaim)
Apr 15, 2026 - May 26, 2026
Facilitator/Course writer: Diego Salazar Galvis
Description: In this course, participants will explore how Liberation Theology from the Latin American context becomes a tool to engage with critical thinking and aligns with preaching practices. In an early stage, we map a broad introduction to the critical thinking skill and a general introduction to Liberation Theology. We will also address the definition given to the trajectory of history, development, and the contextual differentiation between the Liberation Theology in Latin America and the United States of America. In a following phase, we will analyze the principal theological practical thinking that emerged due to Liberation Theology, such as the Mystery of God, the image of Jesus/Christ, Biblical Exegesis and Hermeneutics from underrepresented communities, ecclesial structure (including doctrines/official documents), and pastoral implications.
Courses with Latinx facilitators:
MP10607: Faith Formation (Children, Youth, Adults)
Jan 7, 2026 - Feb 17, 2026 Valerie Coe-Lowder
TH10610: Living the Heart of Progressive Christian Theology
Apr 8, 2026 - May 19, 2026 Marilyn Pagán-Banks
If you are interested in these courses, register at this link so the Pathways team knows you're from Colectivo!
PATHWAYS courses range in price beginning at $150. Learn more at https://www.pathwaystheological.org/.
| Building a Culture of Leadership Within Congregations | A two-session course for ministers and faith leaders ready to strengthen how their congregations and ministries identify, develop, and support leaders. Drawing from faith-rooted organizing, organizational development, and leadership formation, participants will: assess their current leadership culture, uncover untapped potential, and design practical strategies and structures for sustainable leader development. The course includes a pre-course diagnostic, an Application Laboratory, and a post-course 1:1 debrief for action and accountability. Convergence | | | | |
Wednesday Gatherings
Chicago Theological Seminary
First Wednesday of the month. 5:00 pm (CT)
Join Us Virtually!
January 7, 2026 | 5:00 pm CT
Dismantling Christian Hegemony in Higher Education
A conversation with CTS alum and Associate Dean of Religious Life at the University of Southern California, Vanessa Gomez Brake, on confronting Christian hegemony and reshaping religious life in higher education.
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PROTEST & ACTION CHAPLAINCY TRAINING
Convergence
January 6, 2026, 11 - 11:30 am CT - Zoom
January 13, 2026, 12 - 1 pm CT - Zoom
January 20, 2026, 12 - 1 pm CT - Zoom
This online course will guide you—and your leadership teams—in the practice of protest chaplaincy.
It offers a framework for providing compassionate, grounded spiritual care during protests, advocacy gatherings, and social movements. Drawing from a variety of faith traditions and critical social justice theory, it equips chaplains, pastors, and spiritual leaders to respond with integrity, purpose, and preparedness.
Across the United States, communities are protesting policies, challenging systemic injustice, and demanding change from local, state, and federal institutions. As spiritual leaders, our calling compels us not just to show up, but to show up well. Presence matters—but so do action, preparedness, and a deep sense of pastoral responsibility.
Register now
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When the Internet Hurts: The Hidden Online Dangers Facing Our Teens and How Faith Communities Can Respond
FREE online webinar
January 15, 2026, 6 - 7 pm CST
Join Rev. Cameron Trimble in conversation with Sharon Winkler, survivor parent and nationally respected youth online-safety advocate. Sharon’s son, Alex, died at age 17 after experiencing cyberbullying and algorithmically targeted pro-suicide content. Since then, Sharon has dedicated her life to helping parents, educators, and faith leaders recognize online dangers and build safer communities for young people.
Register now
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Stories of Christian Saints and Sinners
This Level One course provides an overview of the 2000 plus year history of the Christian church in chronological order and in themes or patterns within the history. The course seeks to balance the “grand narrative” approach to history with a nuanced approach taking into account the various voices and narratives that come together to create a stronger, broader, and bolder understanding of the Christian faith across time, culture, and space.
Register here Begins on January 7, 2026
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Theology of Gender and Sexuality
Explores a wide range of theological dimensions of and approaches to human sexuality, including gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, sexual activity, sexual health and well-being, reproductive justice, family systems and arrangements, and systems, including ecclesial systems that assign meaning, power, and hierarchies to different aspects of sexuality.
Register here Begins on January 7, 2026
Other six-week courses beginning on January 7, 2026
Introducing the Old Testament
Environmental Literacy in God's Creation
Art of Preaching
Supervised Ministry IV
Making Sense of Theology
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UCC History and Polity
Explore the history, polity, theologies, and practices of the United Church of Christ and its predecessor denominations. The course includes an exploration of denominational identity, hidden histories within the denomination, case studies around current issues of polity and structure, current ecumenical conversations, emerging trends within the United Church of Christ, and more. Successful completion of this course will fulfill the history and polity requirement for authorized ministry in the UCC and in many associations.
Register here Begins on January 7, 2026 - ends March 31, 2026
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Faith Formation (Children, Youth Adults)
This Level One course is the first of four core courses. Each six-week course builds understanding of spirituality in children, youth, and adults; curriculum evaluation, development, and design; and diversity of learning styles as well as intergenerational learning experiences.
Register here Begins on January 7, 2026
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Environmental Ethics
Environmental ethics, a Level Three course, is the study of moral principles that guide our actions in the ecological world we inhabit, including our fellow humans as well as all biotic life. This class focuses specifically on Christian environmental ethics and the role of Scripture and Christian theology in guiding right action with respect to the environment.
Register here Begins on January 7, 2026
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Cohort Training for Effective Church Leadership
Church Training Center
All three cohorts begin the week of January 25, 2026
Each of these three cohorts is a guided, nine-week journey designed to strengthen lay leaders in both practical skill and spiritual grounding. Participants engage weekly with a community of peers across the country that combines centering prayer, dialogue, and discernment. Each nine-week Cohort is led by Keith Clark-Hoyos, Founder of Church Training Center, a former Associate Conference Minister, and graduate of Claremont School of Theology.
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Embracing Our Call A Spiritual Framework for Church Leadership
Begins Monday, January 26, 2026 | 6:00 pm CST
Syllabus
Embracing Our Call helps leaders align their Calling, Energy, and Resources with God’s purpose for their congregation. Through shared dialogue and reflection, participants learn to transform board meetings into spaces of discernment and renewal.
Register Here: Special IL Conference Rate: $149.99 (Regular $399.99) for registrations received by January 15, 2026.
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The Ministry of Money A Treasurer’s Role in the Mission of the Church
Begins Tuesday, January 27, 2026 | 6:00 pm CST
Syllabus
The Ministry of Money equips treasurers, finance leaders, and pastors to interpret financial reports, align budgets with mission, and communicate transparency with grace.
Register Here: Special Conference Rate: $149.99 (Regular $399.99) for registrations received by January 15, 2026.
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Rooted in the Call
A Chairperson’s Guide to Spirit-Led Leadership and Discernment
Begins Thursday, January 29, 2026 | 6:00 pm CST
Syllabus
Rooted in the Call invites leaders to guide their boards through seasons of change with prayer, clarity, and Spirit-led steadiness. Each week blends centering prayer, dialogue, and reflection within a national learning community.
Register Here: Special Conference Rate: $149.99 (Regular $399.99) for registrations received by January 15, 2026.
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Supercharge Your Congregations’ Communications: Media Training for Church Leaders
The Damascus Project
Zoom on Tuesdays, February 3, 10, 17, 24, and March 3, 2026, 6:30-8 pm CT
We live in an “attention” economy in which media communication deeply matters. Yet our UCC congregations often lack basic education and training in how to meaningfully engage 21st-century media tools for communication.
This Media Training Course will equip church leaders, staff, and volunteers with the tools and confidence they need to share the church’s message of faith and hope effectively. The course covers topics such as media messaging, maximizing electronic and print communication, social media content creation, websites and digital storytelling, and online safety.
The course meets via Zoom on Tuesdays February 3, 10, 17, 24 and March 3, 2026, 6:30-8:00 pm CT. Thanks to grant funding, the Damascus Project can offer the course to lay people and clergy leaders at $50 per registrant, an incredible value.
Learn more and register here
The Damascus Project is the regional theological education ministry of the Minnesota and Wisconsin Conferences, United Church of Christ.
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Meetings
Dec 22: FVA Council Meeting, 6:30 pm via Zoom.
Dec 25: Conference office closed. Merry Christmas!
Jan 1: Conference office closed. Happy New Year!
Jan 8: FVA Committee on Ministry Meeting. 9:00 am via Zoom.
Jan 8: CMA Committee on Ministry Meeting. 12:00 pm via Zoom.
Jan 8: Annual Celebration Planning Committee. 5:00 pm via Zoom.
Jan 10: Conference HR Meeting. 9:30 am via Zoom.
Jan 14: Outdoor Ministries Committee Meeting. 9:30 am via Zoom.
Jan 15: EA Council Meeting. 6:30 pm via Zoom.
Jan 18: WA Council Meeting. 3:30 pm via Zoom.
Jan 19: EA Committee on Ministry Meeting. 9:30 am via Zoom.
Jan 20: Finance Committee Meeting. 9:00 am via Zoom.
Jan 20: WA Committee on Ministry Meeting. 9:00 am via Zoom.
Jan 20: CMA Council Meeting. 6:30 pm via Zoom.
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Please let us know if you have a job opening you would like to share,
and also update us once the position is filled. Contact Sarah Lohrbach.
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Contact Us
Mon-Fri 8:30 - 4:30
708-344-4470
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This communication is made possible by your contributions to
Our Church's Wider Mission (OCWM)
This NEWSLETTER is published by the Illinois Conference of the United Church of Christ, 1840 Westchester Blvd, Suite 200, Westchester, IL 60154. The Rev. Dr. Terrill Murff, Interim Conference Minister; the Rev. Sarah Lohrbach, Editor. Copy may be sent to: sarahlohrbach@ilucc.org.
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