Update September 10, 2025

News Events Resources Groups Congregations About

Upcoming Events

September

15- ARPRJM book study, 7pm, online

20- ARPRJM training, 10am, in St. Louis or online

20 - Threads of Joy, 10:30am-2:00pm, Gower

22- ARPRJM book study, 7pm, online

24 - Applications due for NBA's Mission & Ministry grants

27 - Disciples Women Gathering, 9am, via Zoom

29- ARPRJM book study, 7pm, online

Annie Opens Friday Night!

All are welcome to Theatre North of 60's production of Annie at National Avenue CC in Springfield this weekend and next. The performances are free but they'd love to know ahead of time if you plan to attend. Learn more and RSVP here>

School Support in Butler

The July Outreach Project at FCC in Butler focused on supporting one of their own, Owen Cunningham-Arnold, as he begins his freshman year at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri. As part of this initiative, the congregation collected essential items and provided financial assistance to help Owen secure a computer for his college journey. He is pictured here with Rev. Sharla Hulsey (pastor, on left) and Phyllis McBrayer (outreach chair). The church is proud of Owen and grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside him as he takes this exciting next step.

Robes Available

First Christian Church in Columbia would like to gift some choir robes to any church that could make use of them. There are 16 of the style on the left, and 30 of the style on the right. Please contact Office Manager Erin Perry if interested.

Our ARPRJM team is offering an introductory level training course on Saturday, September 20. This course can be attended either in person at Webster Groves CC in St. Louis, or online via Zoom. Registration for either option is due by this Friday, September 12. If minimum class size is not reached, the session may be switched to online only or cancelled altogether. Learn more and register>

Thanks to those who attended the first ARPRJM book study on Monday evening! The conversation on Baptizing America was engaging. Even if you missed it, you can join in for the next three discussions. Find more information, including an RSVP form and the Zoom link, here>

Rev. La'Vetta Ross Installed at Union Avenue CC

This past Sunday the St. Louis Disciples community gathered to celebrate the Covenant of Ministry between Rev. La'Vetta Ross and Union Avenue Christian Church in St. Louis. She is only the second woman, and the first African American to serve the congregations as pastor in its 120 year history. The celebration was originally planned for May but was delayed by tornado damage. She is pictured here with Rev. Dr. Bob HIll who preached during the service.

Labyrinth Retreat 9/20

All are invited to Rock Bridge CC's annual Labyrinth Retreat on September 20, 9:45 am - 12:00 pm.

We will gather at 9:45 for coffee and snacks, followed by a brief presentation introducing labyrinths and ways to use them as spiritual practice. We will then have time for participants to do a labyrinth walk (indoors in the sanctuary or outdoors on our outdoor labyrinth, weather permitting), and explore various stations that will be set up, including finger labyrinths, labyrinth books, journaling, and a labyrinth craft. Participants will choose which activities they want to participate in. We will gather at the end for a brief closing.

The retreat is free, open to all, and no labyrinth experience is necessary. Please RSVP to Kim Leon by September 17 and contact Kim if you have any questions.

Women Empowering Women

A good time was had by all at August 18th's Women Empowering Women gathering at Lake Ozark CC. Lizzy Wolf shared an Icebreaker that literally connected all participants. Sharae Kelley led a time of self-care reflection that made everyone think. Thanks to LOCC and all who contributed food. The group enjoyed a thought provoking and heartwarming time, sharing and exploring our ministries and partnering women with wisdom and purpose.

The next Women Empowering Women session is scheduled for November 10^th at FCC in Troy.

Mental Health First Aid Training 10/18

Rev. Edvonia Scott is offering a Mental Health First Aid course which is open to all. Particularly important for first responders, hospital staff, and employers, this information can benefit all caring individuals. It will take place at Union Avenue CC in St. Louis and the agenda includes applying the Mental Health First Aid Action Plan. Registration due by October 1. Learn more here>

From the Wider Church

This coming week's Global Ministries prayer request is for Tuvalu.

This week's College of Regional Ministers prayer request is for

The Christian Church Capital Area.

Center for Lived Faith & Organizing

is presenting three seminars this fall.

As a partner supporter, Mid-America has free seats available for each.

Narratives & Storytelling in Faith Organizing

Saturday, September 27

Organizing Directly Impacted Communities

Friday, October 10

White Moral Injury: Organizing White People in the Face of Christian Fascism

Friday, November 21

All can be attended either in person in St. Louis or online.

Learn more here>

As your congregation gets its facilities ready for fall, make sure that they don't let in the cold. If they do, they could be leaking heat, costing you money, and increasing your carbon emissions.

Improve operations that contribute to a more energy-efficient place of worship with Disciples Church Extension Fund’s renovation loans. Receive up to $150,000 to:

- upgrade heaters

- replace or repair inefficient windows

- insulate or weatherproof your sanctuary, fellowship hall, and more

To learn how you can "go green,” contact your regional Building and Capital Services Advisor Jim Michel.