Weekly E-News Spring Edition | |  | | |
1) Message from the Conference
2) Latest News
3) Around the Conference
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4) Prayer Concerns
5) Save the Date & Cont. Ed Resources
6) VTCUCC Classifieds
| | DEADLINE for E-Kit News must be received by Tuesday of each week. Please send any and all information please email: admin@vermontucc.org | | Message from the Conference | | |
Greetings, dear members and friends of the Vermont Conference,
Our beloved Conference Minister Rev. Dr. Lynn Bujnak recently shared a photo on Facebook of herself standing at the far-right end of a gloriously diverse lineup of our denomination’s Conference Ministers, who were arranged in order of their length of service in their role of CM. Lynn was farthest to the right because her 17-year tenure makes her currently the longest-serving Conference Minister in the United Church of Christ. That’s an accomplishment worth celebrating, I would say!
Thinking about this fact reminded me of the months I spent serving on the search committee that ultimately called Lynn and brought her into our Conference nearly two decades ago. Part of our task in the early days of that committee was to create a booklet designed to attract worthy candidates to our Conference search process, to ensure that we had good options. (We did!) We had to come up with words and images that would tell a truthful and enticing story about who we
as a Conference had been, about who we were in the process of becoming, and about what we understood to be our call for the future.
In truth, I don’t remember too much about the booklet beyond Bob Eddy’s beautiful photos, but I do recall one scripture passage that we chose as emblematic of our sense of God’s promise — a well-known verse from the prophet Jeremiah, chapter 29: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Over the past year and a bit more, I have had the honor and privilege of speaking with a number of you directly about Ministry21, our Conference’s endeavor (shared with our New Hampshire Conference kin) to address the changing needs and realities of our northern New England church landscape. I have heard so many stories of the strength, creativity, resolve, and grit, along with JOY that exists throughout our Conference. Jeremiah would recognize it: hope! We all know
there are struggles in some of the practicalities of congregational life, but I am heartened by your stories about how the Word still speaks here, and I know that our villages, towns, and cities are hungry for Good News that brings new life. Our churches contain the wisdom of generations, and need and deserve leaders that are “deeply called, deeply equipped, and deeply joyful,” to quote Rev. Paul Sangree, and I’m delighted for Ministry21 to be part of our answer to that need.
We’re in our second semester of Ministry21. Eleven Vermonters (and seven New Hampshirites) participated in the Worship Leadership and Preaching class taught by Rev. Andy Nagy-Benson last Fall, and eleven Vermonters (and eleven New Hampshirites!) are currently engaging in a class taught by Rev. Cindy Bagley of UCC Keene: Dynamic Church: The Art of Ministry in a New Age. If you want to know hope for the church, talk with the participants. I promise you, their enthusiasm is thrilling!
Next year’s courses will focus on Theology in the Public Square (such a critical topic in this current political climate: how can church leaders and parishioners show up in meaningful ways, engaging in work for the common good from a solid theological footing?), and Pastoral Care & Ethics (because our churches and wider communities need healthy, healing support, and deserve pastors who are well versed in pastoral care). Details of those courses are being pinned down,
and more info will be forthcoming, but in the meantime I encourage you to reach out if you have questions, or if you know of someone you think might be being called to explore one form or another of pastoral leadership (volunteer, licensed, or ordained). I’d love to talk with you! “I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” May it be so!
In faith,
Rev. Susie Webster-Toleno
Vermont Conference Dean of Ministry21
vtdean@min21.org
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**************beware scam emails going around again**************
Email scam going around using our conference minister's name asking for gift cards. We will never ask for gift cards.
Scammers often demand payment via gift cards. No legitimate business or government agency will EVER ask you to pay with gift cards. If someone does, it's a scam. Report it immediately to the gift card company and the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
| | Immigration Webinar happening TONIGHT! Register now! | | | |
IMMIGRATION-March 20th 6:30-7:30 PM
The Vermont Conference of the United Church of Christ, through its Justice & Witness Ministries, invites you to an online Zoom discussion on Immigration, featuring insights from Migrant Justice. On Thursday, March 20th, from 6:30 to 7:30 PM, staff from Migrant Justice will share their expertise on how national immigration policies are impacting migrants within Vermont, providing a crucial perspective on the ongoing struggle for economic justice and human rights. This event aims to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by migrant communities and how we can support their fight for a just world for all.
| | Things you need to know about UCC stance on Immigration: | | When the alien resides with you in your land, you shall not oppress the alien. The alien who resides with you shall be to you as the citizen among you; you shall love the alien as yourself, for you were aliens in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.
-Leviticus 19:33-34 | | General Synod Resolutions over the last decades: | | Have you registered for Annual Meeting? | |
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We want YOU to be there! Every church should be represented! Don't forget your Youth Delegates – we want to hear their voices too!
This is where we shape our future! Join us for engaging discussions, important decisions, and opportunities to strengthen our collective ministry.
REGISTER TODAY for May 2nd and 3rd, 2025, at the beautiful Grace Congregational UCC in Rutland, Vermont!
Hotel reservations need to be made by April 1st
| | | | ANOTHER UPCOMING JUSTICE & WITNESS ONLINE SEMINAR | |
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COMMUNITY ORGANIZING - April 3rd 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
The Vermont Conference of the United Church of Christ through its Justice & Witness Ministries, in partnership with Vermont Interfaith Action, invites you to an online community organizing event. On Thursday, April 3rd, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, learn how to effectively organize and resist harmful policies. Presented by Vermont Interfaith Action Executive Director Melissa Battah and other organizers, this session aims to empower individuals and communities to create positive change. Join us to discover how we can work together to transform people and communities towards a just world for all.
| | | | Invitation to Community of Practice for Christian Educators | | | | |
A small cohort of UCC Christian Educators meets monthly on zoom to support one another and share wisdom. We choose the time that suits the most participants. Would you like to join, or do you have questions? If so, email Rev. Hadley Bunting at hadley_abernathy@yahoo.com.
| | PLEASE UPDATE YOUR CHURCH'S INFORMATION CLICK ON START NOW BELOW | | |
UCC Yearbook and Directory
*********Breaking News*********
National has extended the deadline to report/input Church data to April 11, 2025. We realize that there have been some issues with the new UCC Database and Directories (Data Hub) that have prevented some churches from entering data.
In addition to extending the deadline, we are also offering another option. Churches can enter all the data that we ask for via a survey format. To utilize this option, please click here:
DATA ENTRY SURVEY
Entering your Church data directly into the new UCC Database and Directories (DAD) is still an option.
READ MORE HERE
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Church World Service partners gather in Cleveland to collaborate on disaster relief in changing political climate.
Climate disasters like hurricanes, storms, and wildfires are taking place more frequently these days, and often with increased intensity.
Yet in a reality where the demand for disaster response resources is greater, more than 200 employees have been cut from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, which manages the federal response to disasters and emergencies. Within this context, the United Church of Christ hosted meetings of the Church World Service Emergency Preparedness Response and Recovery (EPRR) Covenant Partners on March 13-14. READ MORE
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Blessed Minds: Breaking the Silence about Neurodiversity Mar 20, 2025 | 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Is your church truly welcoming to all of God’s children? Many churches are unintentionally exclusive toward people whose brains work differently. Join Rev. ellie hutchison as she will be in discussion with Rev. Dr. Sarah Lund, advocate, pastor and Author…
Register
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Constitution and Bylaws Changes to be Considered by Synod
In addition to the election of a new officers to the National Church, changes to the UCC’s Constitution and Bylaws will be considered by General Synod 35.
READ MORE
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Re-entering the room at the March 2025 UCC Board Meeting in Cleveland to a standing ovation, smiles, and immense joy, the Rev. Shari Prestemon, current Acting Associate General Minister and Co-executive of Global Ministries was affirmed to continue in her role, permanently.
Read More.
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Politics and the Church
UCC GMP Karen Georgia Thompson writes about knowing the difference between partisan politics and being engaged in politics in her latest blog for On My Mind Today.
READ MORE
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No Road Too Long to Walk
As the war in Ukraine continues, so does the help and hope from Global Ministries and its partners.
READ MORE
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To help congregations prepare for Earth Sunday on April 27th, we will have a webinar on April 9 at 1 pm ET featuring an Earth Sunday resource from Creation Justice Ministries.
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UCC Webinar: Transformative Faith in Toxic Times
Too often, our theology of God’s power has been shaped by images of dominion and control, mirroring human systems of exploitation and extraction. But Scripture reveals a different kind of power—one that flows through relationships, nurtures life, and brings healing to both people and planet. Creation Justice Ministries has released a new resource in time for Earth Sunday that explores life-giving theologies in conversation with those leading at the grassroots of a faith-rooted movement. In this webinar, we will hear from the lead author of the resource along with two of the faith leaders profiled in it. Even if you cannot make the webinar at its scheduled time of 1 pm ET on Wednesday, April 9th, still sign-up, and we will send you a link to a recording of it. Register now to join us!
| | | | *the old link (https://vermontucc.org/open-and-affirming-ona/)is no longer working so please update your links | |
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Share Your Story
Scripture reminds us how love never fails and always hopes. Love is Louder is about “US” and how we as Church love each other and our world well. At the Genesis of our faith, God created us in their image and through Jesus’ wisdom we are reminded of a simple truth: go and love your neighbor as you love yourself.
Will you join us in sharing how you’re embracing loving your neighbor OUT LOUD as a means of hope and spreading love?
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Camp Highlight: Pride on the Mountain (entering grades 7-'25 grads, Aug. 3-6, tiered prices: $285, $255, $225)
Camp Pride is a half-week camp for LGBTQ+ youth and allies to gather and enjoy the beauty of the white mountains in a safe and supportive environment. No matter who you are, or where you are on your life journey, gender journey, sexuality journey, or faith journey you are welcome here! The goal of Camp Pride is to create a safe, loving, and open community where everyone has the space to discover and be their authentic selves!! FAQs, Letter from the Deans
Souper Saturday - A handful of tickets remain! We want YOU to be there!
Warm the body and soul with us at our wintertime get together on March 29th from 12-3 at Tad's Place in Concord, NH on the Havenwood Heritage Heights campus. Click here to sign up for a delicious soup lunch, a chance to connect with fellow camp enthusiasts, games, activities, songs, and MORE: tinyurl.com/soupersaturday2025
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AROUND THE CONFERENCE
(Please let us know what your Congregation is up to by sending an email to VermontConference@gmail.com .
You may just see yourself or someone you love in the eKit or our Facebook page!)
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Last Fall Newfane Church Celebrated Inclusive Love, Reversing Old Ruling
The Newfane Congregational Church in Vermont unanimously overturned the 1826 excommunication of James Lamb, who was deemed a heretic for believing in universal salvation. The church held a series of discussions on Christian universalism before voting to reinstate Lamb, seeing it as an act of justice and healing. The church's pastor connected the event to contemporary issues, emphasizing the importance of inclusive love and challenging doctrines of damnation. Lamb was honored with a service including a song written specifically for the occasion.
READ MORE
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“Contemporary Counterpoint” Concert at First Congregational Church of Berlin
On Sunday March 30 at 4 pm, Christopher McWilliams and friends will present their “Ccontemporary Counterpoint” concert at First Congregational Church of Berlin (1808 Scott Hill Road, Berlin VT 05602) where Christopher is Music Director. Joining Christopher for the concert are Kailea Silvers (cello), Denise Ricker (flute), Lotta Suter (violin and soprano), Stuart Williams (baritone) and Rob Griffin (tenor). The program encompasses works composed after 1900, including the “Passacaille” from the “String Trio in A Minor” by Maurice Ravel and selections from “Hermit Songs” by Samuel Barber. Admission is free, with donations to benefit Capstone Community Action. There will be a reception after the concert and a chance to view the exhibition of new paintings by Gordon Clow.
For more information, see the FCCB website (fccbvt.org) or contact Rob Griffin at griffinsutheirter@hotmail.com
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The Congregational Church of North Bennington Embraces Change!
It is with mixed emotions that we share the news of the closure of The Congregational Church of North Bennington as a worshipping congregation. This difficult decision, reached after much prayer and reflection, paves the way for new possibilities and growth within their community of faith.
A Time of Transition and Hope
Change can be challenging, but it also brings opportunities for transformation. The N. Bennington congregation is embracing this time of transition with hope and a spirit of collaboration.
- Sharing Resources: In the spirit of generosity, N. Bennington Church is offering valuable resources to other churches within the Conference:
- A complete set of "The Interpreter's Bible" (12 volumes)
- A complete set of "The Interpreter's Dictionary of the Bible" (4 volumes)
- A complete set of "The Bible Story" (5 volumes)
- Six large seasonal banners for a sanctuary wall (2 Thanksgiving, 1 Christmas, 1 Easter, 1 Pentecost, 1 Alpha & Omega)
Interested churches are encouraged to reach out and express their interest in these resources contact:
Penny at: loonsbenn@comcast.net
A Message of Hope and Resilience
The closure of N. Bennington Church marks the end of an era, but it also represents a new beginning. The congregation's commitment to sharing resources reflects their resilience and dedication to their faith community. As they navigate this time of change, they do so with hope, knowing that God is guiding them.
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Heat Pumps: Savings or Sacrifice? Vermont Church Data Offers a Cautious Look
Last spring, an appeal went out to Vermont churches using heat pumps, seeking real-world data to assess their cost-effectiveness. Only one church responded, providing a unique glimpse into the financial realities of this increasingly popular heating solution. While the results demonstrate a reduction in carbon footprint, they also reveal that significant cost savings may not be the primary driver for installation.
Read more
| | | | Two Wonderful Events to share WITH YOU ALL! | | Read more from the Northeast Association Joint Service here: | | | FOR MORE INFORMATION ON WHAT'S HAPPENING AROUND THE CONFERENCE GO TO OUR FACEBOOK PAGE HERE: | | |
Prayers for Ukraine, Gaza, Congo and other places in the world with ongoing wars.
Prayers for those caught in natural disasters
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Save the Date & Cont. Ed Resources
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The next UCC History and Polity course begins May 7 and ends on August 19, 2025.
UCC History and Polity explores the history, polity, theologies, and practices of the United Church of Christ and its predecessor denominations. The course will include 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 United Church of Christ in many associations and conferences.
Go to the PATHWAYS website (pathwaystheological.org) to learn more and to apply for UCC History and Polity and other courses.
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Teeny Tiny Church Services: Supporting Smaller Congregations
Looking for ways to enhance your worship services this summer and beyond?
Teeny Tiny Church Services offers a range of resources to meet your congregation's needs, whether you have a full-time pastor, rely on supply preachers, or have lay leaders presiding over worship.
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Welcome, Farewell, and Blessings
Pastoral Transitions since the 2024 Vermont Conference Annual Meeting
| | | | A Memorial Service for The Reverend Roger Brown will take place on Saturday, April 12 at 11:00 am at Centre Congregational Church, UCC. A graveside service will take place on Sunday, April 13 at 1:00pm. | | |
Mission and faith identity support:
Applicants should demonstrate full support of the mission, values, and faith orientation of the First Congregational Church of Essex Junction, UCC and the United Church of Christ as a welcoming, historic, and progressive Christian faith community. The applicant will unreservedly support the church’s identity as an Open and Affirming (i.e. LGBTQ+ affirming) congregation.
For more details regarding the position, please visit our website: https://www.fccej.org/v5/who-we-are/work-with-us/
FCCEJ is an open and affirming church, serving all in the spirit of Christ.
Please send resume and cover letter to: welcome@fccej.org
| | FOR MORE CONFERENCE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES | | |
The United Church of Christ invites you to participate in the Join the Movement Campaign, a three-year initiative that recognizes local churches’ works towards racial justice. Together, we can advocate for all people to live without acts of violence or structures and systems that harm God’s human creation.
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Global Ministries is a joint witness in mission between the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the United Church of Christ. Join us in our mission to receive and share the Good News of Jesus Christ by joining with global and local partners to work for justice, reconciliation and peace
Become a Global Mission Church!
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Thank You for Your Support!
Our Churches Wider Mission Basic Support, Association Dues, and
Friends of the Vermont Conference make this communication possible.
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