Wisconsin Conference Life Newsletter
July 21, 2021
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The national office of the UCC has written a summary article about all things General Synod, which you can read here. Included in the article are links to information about the three worship services and news about the business of Synod.
Synod delegates approved a resolution decrying oppression of Palestinian people as a matter of faith, but not before a debate over whether calling that oppression “apartheid” and naming it a “sin” was too inflammatory. Read more about this resolution here.
Image: Moderator Rev. Penny Lowes gavels General Synod 33 to a close on Sunday, July 18
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In This Issue: scroll down to find these articles |
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Wisconsin Conference Immigration Working Group Urges Congregations to Sign and Circulate This Petition to Make COVID-19 Vaccines Available in Haiti |
The country of Haiti is now experiencing an alarming spike in COVID-19 cases, and there are no vaccines currently available in Haiti.* In addition to the widespread political violence and turmoil in this ravaged nation, there is now great concern that Haiti could be devastated by COVID-19.
The Wisconsin Conference Immigration Working group urges members of our congregations to sign and circulate this petition initiated by Catholiccares.org and Faith In Action International calling upon the Biden administration to send surplus doses of vaccines to Haiti immediately. This will both reduce the chances of additional suffering and loss of life in Haiti, and also make it less likely that Haitian immigrants carrying the virus will bring more cases into the U.S.
Thank you!
~The Wisconsin Conference Immigration Working Group
*Since this article was written, doses for 2% of the Haitian population have been sent to Haiti. Many more doses are needed.
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Conference Plans Work Trip to Back Bay Mission
Feb. 27 – March 5 in Biloxi, Mississippi
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Are you interested in in a weeklong mission trip to serve at one of our beloved UCC partners through the Council for Health and Human Services Ministries? Conference Minister Franz Rigert will lead a delegation of up to 20 to join in the ministry of Back Bay Mission – strengthening neighborhoods, seeking justice and transforming lives. Among its many initiatives, Back Bay Mission meets urgent and essential needs in the wider Biloxi community, working alongside those in the journey out of poverty.
During our time on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, we will have the opportunity to serve in three of the Mission’s ministries: housing rehabilitation, the food pantry, and the Micah Day Center. Here is the link to the Back Bay Mission website. You can also learn more about Back Bay Mission in this video.
Participants will pay a $250 donation to cover costs of materials and lodging, and as a contribution to the mission. Additional costs include travel and meal expenses (we will share in preparing meals).
Please email Franz Rigert with questions or to express interest.
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What a gift these last few weeks have been. It has been wonderful to welcome so many guests to Cedar Valley, Moon Beach, and Pilgrim Center. The UCCI July newsletter is full of your smiling faces, and we love to hear how Outdoor Ministry makes a difference. Just a few comments you have shared:
“Our first time having a completely judgment-free experience.”
“Felt like coming home.”
“Inspiring”
“So good to be together”
“SO. MUCH. FUN.”
The invitation to come is always open and money is not a barrier (follow the scholarship link below). You can still register for summer events! AND check out some great things coming up this fall.
There are still opportunities for volunteer roles, seasonal staff, and other positions. It’s fun and flexible, so even if you have limited time, please inquire. Thank you!
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Thank you, General Synod Delegates |
Heartfelt thanks goes to our 2021 General Synod delegates. These individuals, from across the Wisconsin Conference UCC, came together virtually for the Special Edition 2021 General Synod from July 11 to 18. They navigated some technology glitches, found ways to build community online, and worked together to make sure that peoples’ voices were heard. They served faithfully and represented the Wisconsin Conference well. Over the coming weeks and months, you will learn more about their experiences as some of the delegates share reflections with us.
Please join us in thanking our 2021 General Synod delegates:
Ms. Cathy Benjamin | Ms. Kythie Boyd | Ms. Carmen Danz | Rev. Jeffrey Dodson | Rev. Ted Drewsen | Rev. Julie Eklund | Rev. Elizabeth Hazel | Rev. Linda Forray | Ms. Casey Gott | Rev. Sonny Graves | Ms. Sue Kaiser | Mr. Paul Karch | Mr. Tom Kolb | Ms. Olivia Metz | Rev. Phil Milam | Rev. Franz Rigert | Mr. Ron Roloff | Rev. Tanya Sadagopan | Ms. Laura Stalder | Ms. Patti Steevens | Ms. Sandy Stuttgen | Rev. Nancy Taylor | Rev. Zayna Thomley | Mr. Alan Timm
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The General Fund of the Wisconsin Conference helps us connect, support, and resource pastors, leaders, and congregations. Your gift allows the Conference to provide relevant and timely help during the pandemic and beyond. Donate to the General Fund
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Searching Churches
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Trinity UCC in LaCrosse is searching for a pastor. Details
Installations and Ordinations
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Rev. Delisa Buckingham-Taylor was ordained July 17 at Grace UCC in Fort Atkinson
In Memoriam
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Jane Suddendorf, wife of Rev. Jeff Suddendorf, passed away on July 4. Obituary (click on "Obituary and Events" after the link opens).
The Conference Transitions feature appears monthly in the Wisconsin Conference Life. Please share your transition information, including church anniversaries, with the newsletter editor by emailing Nola.
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The Kairos Call to Action Newsletter was created to support the efforts of congregations, families and individuals who want to be a part of the UCC’s Kairos Call to Action. Through this newsletter the Conference Creation Care Team will provide resources for study and worship, encourage advocacy on behalf of climate justice, and help congregations find and connect with partners who share this common concern and commitment.
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Tending the Soul of the Beloved Community is a monthly communication dedicated to sharing resources and tools, wisdom and insight for congregations and individuals navigating these challenging days. Created by the Conference Supportive Ministries Team, this publication will highlight resources to aid in steering your path forward.
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Join the Conference-wide Creation Care Team!
Are you passionate about Creation Care? Want to connect with others who are taking action to care for the earth? The Creation Care Team's primary focus is to encourage, support and provide resources to congregations in the Wisconsin Conference as they do what they can to care for creation. If you would like to be a part of this team, or for more information on the Creation Care Team, contact John Helt. You can also go to the Creation Care webpage to learn more.
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Is your church considering an Open and Affirming Process? The Wisconsin Conference has a committee to help! Please feel free to use us as resources for your discussions and preparations. Contact Laura McLeod of the Wisconsin Conference UCC Committee on Ministry with LGBTQ Persons.
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Get Involved! A Conference-wide Racial Justice Task Force gathers resources and encourages congregations to engage in conversations around race. If you and your congregation are interested in participating in this group, you are welcome. Contact Lisa Hart get involved.
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This newsletter is made possible by contributions to Our Church's Wider Mission Basic Support.
Wisconsin Conference United Church of Christ
4459 Gray Road | DeForest, WI 53532
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