Weekly E-News Winter Edition | |  |
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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
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Message from the Conference | |
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Dear Friends,
We have now entered the Lenten season, with Ash Wednesday happening this
week. I know that many of our churches had services, and others offered “Ashes
to Go” in various creative ways! We begin this 40 day period with the Church
around the world as we prepare to journey together to Holy Week and Easter.
My favorite Biblical passage is Luke 4:1-13, which tells the story of Jesus’s time
in the wilderness where He was tempted for 40 days. I have a love for the
wilderness in my own life, so I am naturally drawn to this story. I have also
noticed that it is often when I go to the “wilderness”, which can happen in many
different ways, that I get most in touch with who I am and who I am called to be.
I think that was true for Jesus as well. Since there was no one else there in the
wilderness with Him, I always imagine that Jesus told the story of what happened to Him there to His best friends gathered around a campfire at night, wanting them to understand more of who He was and what He was called to be. Amidst the temptations He faced, He also wanted them to understand who He was not called to be, which can be just as important in life and ministry.
As we enter this Lent, we too face many temptations around us. With our country and world in such an upheaval, we also need to get in touch with who we are and who we are called to be. We also need to discern who we are not called
to be. I encourage you to be intentional during this Lenten season in going out to the wilderness in your own life, whatever that may look like for you. Take timeout for it-it could be the most important thing you do.
Faithfully yours,
Paul
Paul
Rev. Paul Sangree
Associate Conference Minister
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Join Us for the 230th Annual Meeting!
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Excitement is building as the Vermont Conference of the United Church of Christ prepares to host its 230th Annual Meeting! Mark your calendars for May 2nd and 3rd, 2025, at the beautiful Grace Congregational UCC in Rutland, Vermont!
We want YOU to be there! Every church should be represented, with delegate numbers based on membership, and don't forget your Youth Delegate – 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. Let's come together and make this Annual Meeting a beacon of hope and a testament to our vibrant future! We can't wait to see you there!
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Equip Your Church!
MORE UPCOMING JUSTICE & WITNESS ONLINE SEMINARS
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Justice and Witness Ministries of the Vermont Conference UCC is sponsoring a series of online social justice seminars to address the challenges of the times we’re living in. These timely webinars will delve into the critical challenges of our era, providing information about the harm being done to vulnerable communities and, most importantly, empowering us as people of faith to resist and act!
To ensure your congregation is aware of these vital learning opportunities, we strongly encourage you to use the bulletin inserts below to announce these seminars. Let's equip our communities with the knowledge and inspiration they need to make a difference!
Help us amplify the message of justice! Please include information about these webinars in your upcoming bulletins.
Thank you for your commitment to justice and your partnership in this vital work.
In solidarity,
Justice & Witness Ministries of the Vermont Conference UCC
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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.
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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.
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Missed the "Response to Project 2025" Webinar? Watch the Recording! | |
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A recent webinar on Project 2025 drew a record number of participants from diverse faiths and regions, highlighting widespread concern about the initiative's potential impact. Project 2025 is seen as a threat to fundamental freedoms and seeks to dismantle federal government structures. The webinar emphasized the detrimental effects of this initiative on various critical areas, including immigration, climate policy, LGBTQ+ rights, economic justice, healthcare, racial justice, and reproductive rights. The United Church of Christ (UCC) is actively resisting these policies by advocating for justice and community service, emphasizing the importance of faith-based activism in protecting vulnerable communities and upholding our core values.
Watch here
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The Rev. Karen Georgia A. Thompson, general minister and president of the United Church of Christ, is calling on the church to “pause, pray, and prepare to live love boldly.” In a time of political division, rising inequality, and social uncertainty, she emphasizes that the church’s role is not only to speak about justice but to actively embody it. Her call to action aligns with the theme of the upcoming General Council of the World Communion of Reformed Churches: “Persevere in Your Witness.”
Read More
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HELP SAVE UNIVERSAL SCHOOL MEALS! | | |
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Governor Scott’s proposed repeal of Vermont’s Universal School Meals Program would cost Vermont kids, families, schools, and farmers.
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As We Worship, So Will We Live | |
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In the same way that the movement for racial justice cannot be separated from faith commitments to do justice and love our neighbors, so too, antiracism is part of the interweaving of our worship, our activism, and our faith formation. How do we cultivate the mutually-informing dynamic interplay between these different aspects of our life in community?
Read more here
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Spiritual Anchors
Lent 2025 resources offer nourishment, challenge, and encouragement to dig deep.
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A Bill requiring churches to certify no political activity is in committee
A bill (H 113) in the Vermont legislature would require churches and non-profits to certify annually that they have not engaged in lobbying or political activity to maintain their property tax-exempt status. The bill, sponsored by Reps. Laura Sibilia and Kelly Pajala, clarifies that organizations engaging in political activity on their property are not eligible for state property tax exemption.
Read more here
Download proposed bill H113 here
Keep watch here
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Compassion in Action
Small but mighty: Congregations flex their mission muscle, assembling kits funded by Global HOPE matching grants.
Read More
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America in Search of a Soul
A March 12 webinar that looks to unpack the threats of societal inequalities, and climate change.
Register
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Palestinian Women in the Struggle
Mira Rizeq of the World YWCA joins UCC’s Rev. Shari Prestemon for a discussion centered around Palestinian women and their quest for rights and liberation.
Register
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UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST stance on Immigration: | |
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On this Ash Wednesday, the Open and Affirming Coalition of the United Church of Christ is proud to stand with the Collective of…
Read More
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Erasing Trans History: The Government’s Quiet Attack on Stonewall’s Legacy
The U.S. government has once again made it clear that they want to erase transgender and queer people from history. This time, they…
Read More here
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Considering Matthew Shepard Concert and Community Engagement Series | | |
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We are honored to partner with Albany Pro Musica on their upcoming Considering Matthew Shepard concert and community engagement series.
Craig Hella Johnson’s Considering Matthew Shepard is a deeply moving work that explores Matthew Shepard’s life, tragic death, and enduring legacy. Through music, it challenges us to reflect on themes of inclusion, resilience, and hope while envisioning a more compassionate world.
Join us in supporting this transformative project and experience how music truly captures the human spirit. Together, we can inspire greater understanding and connection within our community.
LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
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Camp Highlight: Elementary Eco-Explorers (entering grades 3-5, June 29-July 5, tiered prices: $710, $600, $530)
During our week together on the mountain we'll spend lots of time learning about and exploring the great outdoors up on Pine Mt. and in the surrounding mountains and rivers. We'll learn through play, experiments, crafts, and conversation. Come to camp ready to deepen your love for Creation, leave camp ready to be a responsible steward as a certified
White Mountain National Forest Junior Forest Ranger!
Souper Saturday - Tickets still available!
It's not too late to RSVP for our wintertime get together on March 29th from 12-3 at Tad's Place 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
Embroidery Machine Needed! Do you or someone you know own an embroidery machine?
This past fall I had the chance to visit the UCC's first Climate Justice Camp, Camp Fowler, in the Adirondacks for a conference. While I was perusing their camp store I was inspired by one item in particular: a flannel shirt. Oh, but not a fancy brand-new flannel shirt, no! This flannel shirt had been previously owned and was donated to the camp, where the camp logo was embroidered on it, and it was for sale at a reasonable price. What an awesome message of upcycling and minimizing fashion waste! And who doesn't love a good flannel shirt?! We're looking for someone to help us bring this to life at Horton Center for this summer. I've got lots of pre-loved flannel shirts already donated - now we just need someone to help with the embroidering! Please reach out if you have a machine of your own or can put me in touch with someone who does. Thank you!
Shalom, friends!
Tivvi Pare
(she/her/hers)
603-545-9660
TPare@nhcucc.org
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Finding Common Ground at the Border
Samaritans and ranchers: Voices of people who regularly meet migrants at U.S.-Mexico border.
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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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PLEASE UPDATE YOUR CHURCH'S INFORMATION CLICK ON START NOW BELOW | |
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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The Shoreham Congregational Church is celebrating Pi Day again this year! | | |
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Pi Day Publicity -- Shoreham Congregational Church
Pi Day returns to Shoreham!
Celebrate the arrival of spring by coming to Pi Day at the
Shoreham Congregational Church on Friday March 14 from 5 to 7 PM. You can buy a slice of pie for $4, or add a scoop of ice cream for another $1. Beverages (coffee, tea, cocoa, or
water) are free.
There will also be a special raffle -- A Pie a Month for 6 Months. The winner will take home the first pie that night, and then will be able to have one pie a month of their choosing for each of the next 5 months, date and variety of pie to be determined by mutual agreement between the winner and the baker.
This has a value of $120. Raffle tickets are $5 each of 3 tickets for $10.The winner will be drawn that evening, but you do not need to be present to win.
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FOR MORE INFORMATION ON WHAT'S HAPPENING AROUND THE CONFERENCE GO TO OUR FACEBOOK PAGE HERE: | |
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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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From: Centre Congregational Church, UCC:
As a faith community, we deeply mourn the loss of our member, Judith Myrick (1931-2025), died peacefully on February 8 in Pennsylvania. Her health had been declining in the last few months due to heart failure. And then her body began to give out. Her son and daughter were able to be at her bedside the last few days, time for which they are grateful. A service in Judy’s memory will be held at the gravesite at the cemetery where her husband, Allen, is also buried. Her obituary will be published in the March Centre Bells. I have reached out to the daughter, Helen Davis, to express to her the church’s condolences.
See obituary: https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/wfmz/name/judith-myrick-obituary?id=57503074
Judy and Allen were champions of the Wider Church and were long time UCBWM and GM missionaries.
Members of Centre Congregational Church, UCC
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Reverend Ben Thurber , age 92, died peacefully in his home after a long illness of vascular dementia. He received a certificate this past year for 65 years of ordained ministry. He was also a masterful artist (https://www.benthurberart.com/). Bev Thurber's wife, Beverly is one of United Church of Craftsbury's accompanists. Our prayers are with the family.
A celebration of Ben’s life and legacy is planned for Memorial Day weekend (details to be announced later). In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Craftsbury Church on the Common’s Deacons’ Crisis Fund, PO Box 46, Craftsbury Common, VT 05827, or Orleans/Essex VNA Hospice, 46 Lakemont Rd., Newport, VT 05855.
Find his obituary by clicking here
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Rev. Dr. William Ellis Cobb “Bill”, age 87, passed away in the early morning hours of April 12, 2024, at his home in Lexington, TN with his family by his side
Find his obituary by clicking here
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Save the Date & Cont. Ed Resources
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2025 Racial Justice Trainings
This 6-hour training for authorized ministers, uses videos, articles and small-group conversations based on a unique tool that lifts up the need for work in the area of respect and affirmation when looking at the four realms of racism.
- March 18 and 20
- May 12 and 14
- September 9 and 10
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The CERTIFICATE IN FOUNDATIONAL THEOLOGY provides a wonderful way to explore and deepen one's faith through a broad spectrum of courses that combine practical applications with open-minded, inclusive theology, bible, ethics, and spiritual care. Sign up for a course in this program where you will find your questions welcome and online conversations with peers and the facilitator transformative. Of the 8-courses, three are required: Making Sense of Theology, Understanding the Bible as a Progressive Christian, and The Living Heart of Progressive Christian Theology.
Other Certificate courses this Spring include:
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Prophetic Preaching on Christian Nationalism (Part of Project Proclaim) begins March 5, 2025
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THE BIBLE AS GUIDE: Biomes and Landforms in Scripture (Environmental Justice Certificate course) - Level 1 - begins March 19, 2025
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Applied: Faith Formation and Spiritual Practices for Children, Youth, and Adults (Faith Formation Certificate course) - Level 2 - begins May 7, 2025
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Preaching Liberation Theology (Part of Project Proclaim) begins May 7, 2025
Go to the PATHWAYS website (pathwaystheological.org) to learn more and to apply for these 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
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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. | |
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Rev. Marjorie McNeil
rings the bell on the end of her cancer treatments!
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Please note and change your information:
that Rev. Matthew Deen is now:
Rev. Thew Deen(they/them/theirs)
"Blessings, Thew! Thank you for your honesty, courage and clear naming of who you know yourself to be. We continue to welcome, love and accept you and the many gifts you share with your church, Association, Conference and this world." -Lynn
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Rev. Ken White concludes his ministry at College Street Congregational UCC | | |
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Ken White and his wife Lucia receiving prayer shawls, Ken playing in the band. | |
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Rev. Katherine Buechner Arthaurd retires from United Church in Fairfax | | |
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Congratulations to Josh Sharp
from First Congregational Church of Essex Junction was
approved for ordination pending call
by the Champlain Association
on January 12, 2025
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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
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FOR MORE CONFERENCE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES | |
Click here to Sign up to stay connected, be nourished and keep updated on racial justice work happening around the world. | | |
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Become a Global Mission Church!
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