Rural Ministry Network Events

Nine Disciples gathered for the first training of our Rural Ministry Ambassadors on Oct. 12^th at Community

Christian Church in Jefferson City. These volunteers will work with congregations close in proximity to where they live to serve as a 'ministry in the flesh' to help connect, resource, and encourage our rural communities. We are grateful for all those folks who are passionate about the rural context and want to strengthen our walk with Christ.

Our Rural Ministry Network event "Threads of Joy" celebrated 50 folks gathering at First Christian Church in Eldon for a time of fellowship, food, and workshops on October 19. Workshop presenters were: Jacque Foster "Disciples History and identity"; Chance McMullin "Growing Engaging Disciples"; Jan Aerie and William Brown "Intergenerational Collaboration"; Willinda Charumuka and Teresa Spear "Civil Conversations around the Table"; and Colleen Carroll and Mike Kateman "Transitions with our Buildings." These workshops were recorded and will be up on our RMN website in the near future:

A big thank you to our presenters, the RMN Task Force, Rural Ambassadors, and our host Pastor, Bill Foglesong for a wonderful day of connecting, resourcing, and encouraging!

Pastor Jay Self Retires

The First Christian Church in Moberly is such a fine congregation that stands out to provide an incredible witness to grace, inclusion, open table, and love for the community. On Sunday, these dedicated Disciples honored their pastor, Jay Self and his wife Debbie who co-labored with the church for 27 years (pictured on left and in center). Happy Retirement!! Regional Minister Paul Koch (on right) was honored to preach and present the Honored Minister’s Pin and Honored Spouse Certificate from the Pension Fund. A scrumptious celebration lunch, many tables long, followed.

Nixa Christian Church Closes

The Nixa Christian Church--established in 1870 and moved to its newer location in 1985—celebrated its final service on Sunday, Oct. 20. Rev. Cecil Cox and Rev. George Lattimer brought the message and Rev. Ron Routledge presided over the Litany of Celebration and Deconsecration. Everyone gathered in a large circle to share the sweet fellowship and memories of God's faithfulness through the years. A fellowship meal followed and all were encouraged to take with them a Chalice Hymnal and Bible. We pray these Disciples are led to continue to worship in new locations, and remember them as they grieve this loss.

You Can Help Hurricane Victims

Week of Compassion is working to help those affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Please continue to pray for everyone involved and give to the effort as you are able.

Virtual volunteers are urgently needed right now through their partner Crisis CleanUp. Help respond to survivor help lines, serving from home, with simple training and phone/computer access. Contact volunteer@weekofcompassion.org.

Read the latest update including information about Christmount Assembly here>

Last Monday Meditation

Don't miss our monthly Last Monday Meditation on October 28 at 11:00 am. All are welcome to join Associate Regional Ministers Jennifer Long and David Woodard via Zoom as we pray the scriptures and find meaning in the deeper well of life.

Disciples Men Gathering Series

47 - Navigating the Mid-Life Passage, a journey for Mid-America Men & Friends starts next week and we couldn’t be happier. The crew is looking forward to meeting you.

The Gatherings will be held on Tuesday evenings from 7:30pm - 8:30ish CT starting on Tuesday October 29th ending on December 17th (excluding election night).

The age of 47 has been determined to be the average age among American men when we pivot to a new understanding of identity, legacy, and faith - beginning after navigating troubled waters. What used to be called "the mid-life crisis" is now regarded as God's given opportunity to release and embrace Christ's teachings and New Life.  

Contact Regional Minister Paul Koch for more information on how to enroll. No charge but lots of change.