Message to the Conference | |
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Greetings members and friends of Penn Central Conference,
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” Ecclesiastes 4:9-10a
The Penn Central Conference was formed in 1962, five years following the mergers that created a new denomination - the United Church of Christ. Our national membership was over 2.2 million at the time. No one had ever created something quite like the UCC, and we drew on the energy of the ecumenical movement and a deep desire to draw Protestant Christians back together. We committed to be United and Uniting into the future.
The creation of four conferences in Pennsylvania reflected the need to effectively manage the 1000+ Pennsylvania churches with a metropolitan center in each conference (Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, Allentown, and Philadelphia). At the time, Pennsylvania had the highest number of UCC churches and still retains that honor.
The Pennsylvania churches now number about 500 and our overall membership has decreased by almost half. Our change mimics that of the national UCC, moving from 2.2 million members nationally in 1957 to less than 740,000 now.
We are all familiar with the "narrative of decline" and at times it leads us to grief and helplessness. Yet in the midst of that statistical reality, a 25-member group of officers and board members from the 4 Pennsylvania conferences has been an unexpected bearer of good news and vital energy.
Many of you are already aware of the Keystone Working Group (KWG). This group of committed lay and clergy leaders has met monthly since last October to explore paths of shared ministry among the 4 conferences. They have also wrestled with the opportunities and challenges of a merger of our four conferences. The gift of this group has been its remarkable optimism about the future and what is possible for us to do together. Make no mistake, this is an enormous and daunting task. Still, the group expresses how good and exciting it feels to take action for the future of the church in PA. Instead of marinating helplessly in the face of decline the KWG has taken the proverbial bull by the horns and leaned into this task with faithful hearts. They are sustained by spiritual reflection and by that precious yet ephemeral gift of hope.
Next week at our Annual Meeting you will have an opportunity to hear more about the Keystone Project. There will be an on-line workshop on Wednesday evening with me, some of our KWG representatives, and Rev. Bill Worley from Penn Southeast. In person on Friday and Saturday we will welcome Bill to join us as our Friday afternoon preacher and we will lead a Keystone discussion for delegates and guests that will include some of our KWG representatives. In the same days, our colleagues from Penn West (Rev. David Ackerman) and Penn Northeast (Rev. Dr. Bonnie Bates) will be together at the annual meeting of Penn West at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. In addition, all four of us will be together this coming weekend at the Penn Southeast meeting.
There is still so much work to do. We know our "why" - Together We are Stronger. We will work on "what" we need to do (functions of a conference) before we will discuss "how" we will make it work (staffings, finances, etc.). We are committed to unity and transparency. In the months to come you will have multiple opportunities to share your ideas, reflections, hopes, fears, and aspirations. I pray you will feel the optimism and hope of what lies ahead for our United and Uniting UCC church in Pennsylvania.
Peace,
Carrie
Rev. Dr. Carrie Call
Conference Minister
Penn Central Conference
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ALUMNI DAY & MECK AND MOSS AWARD RECIPIENTS
It was a great turnout on May 5 as alumni returned to the Lancaster Theological Seminary campus. We worshipped with preacher the Rev. Naomi Washington-Leapheart, MDiv 2016, enjoyed a barbecue lunch, and heard a State of the Seminary update by Dean Heather Vacek. Two PCC clergy were honored - the Rev. J. Kenneth Trauger, Class of 1962, received the Moss Award for specialized ministry and the Rev. Dr. Martha Boyer, Class of 2000, received the Meck Award for pastoral ministry. Look for details and photos in the June 1 LTS Alumni Bulletin.
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Annual Meeting registration is now open!
"Renewing the Covenant We Share"
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” Ecclesiastes 4:9-10a
The 61st Annual Meeting of the Penn Central Conference will return to in person, with virtual options for plenaries. We will gather at the Doubletree Resort by Hilton; 2400 Willow Street Pike, Lancaster, PA 17602 on June 9th & 10th, 2023.
Our special guest is Rev. Dr. Jane Fisler Hoffman, author of Covenant: A Study for the United Church of Christ. She will be our keynote speaker as well as lead a workshop.
We will be voting on two bylaws changes as well as a slate of nominees. You can see more about those bylaws in the full invitation here.
Read all about the tentative schedule, workshops and more on the registration page here.
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Scheduling notes:
June 4 - St. Thomas UCC, Harrisburg - Rev. Rick Luciotti preaching
June 11 - Apostles UCC, Waynesboro - Rev. Dr. Nora Foust preaching
June 11 - St. Paul's UCC, Shrewsbury final service - Rev. Dr. Carrie Call preaching
| Printable eNews are available. Pastors and secretaries, please feel free to share with your congregation members that don't get this weekly email. Download and print this PDF with the weekly message to the conference, prayers for Penn Central and brief list of events. | |
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Prayers for Penn Central Conference
Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. Ephesians 6:18 (NLT)
This week, we pray for each other as we continue to live into God's calling...
Emmanuel Union UCC, Centre Hall
St. John's UCC, Loganton
St. Paul's UCC, Selinsgrove
Trinity UCC, Watsontown
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National UCC Climate Hope Cards Campaign!
On April 29th, the UCC will be launching an effort to collect as many petition postcards as possible to seek government action for cleaner air and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Such action could both save lives and put our nation on track to meet climate goals. Sign-up to get updates on the Climate Hope Cards campaign and this launch event.
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Webinar: How to Get Energy Efficiency Grants for Congregations
The U.S. Department of Energy has announced an initiative to fund energy-efficiency improvements in the nonprofit sector, including houses of worship. It is expected that in June the grant application process will open. Daniel Bresette from the Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI)and Energy Study Institute (EESI) will walk us through the process in this webinar on June 1 at 5 pm ET. Sign-up now!!
🌿🌏🌳🍃
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UCC Webinar—Seizing an Opportunity: Strengthening EPA Protections in 2023
As UCC congregations across the country embark upon collecting thousands of signed postcards for the Environmental Protection Agency as part of the Climate Hope Cards campaign, this webinar will cover how the coming months at the EPA present a significant opportunity to save thousands of lives, address societal inequalities, and put the United States on a path to achieve 100 percent carbon-free electricity by 2035. Even if you cannot make the webinar at its scheduled time on June 14th at 1 pm ET, still sign-up, and we will send you a link to a recording of it. Register now!
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Congratulations! The United Church of Christ has awarded St. Paul's UCC, Stoverstown in Spring Grove, PA with a $250 matching grant for their fundraising efforts and commitment to assemble 144 Hygiene Kits. These Hygiene kits mean the difference between sickness and health for struggling families facing natural disasters, violence, or poverty. We are so proud of this church's ministry! | |
St. Paul's UCC, Dallastown has a large quantity of Chalice Hymnals they no longer need. If your church is in need of them, please contact the church via email or phone (717) 244-2090. | |
Is your church looking for a local mission project? Starview UCC, Mt. Wolf has been partnering with Servants in York County for nearly two decades. Churches can assist with a variety of residential home repairs for people in need, or with meals for volunteers and homeowners. Learn more here. | |
Bethel UCC, Spring Grove will be celebrating 150 years with a Concert and Hymn Sing on June 24m from 2-4PM. Join them for food, fellowship and games! | |
St. Thomas UCC, Harrisburg is having their annual blueberry sale! $34 for a ten pound box, last day to order is Tuesday, June 27 with pickup on July 7. | |
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Northern Cluster Pig Roast and Concert – June 25
On Sunday, June 25, beginning at 5pm, the Northern Cluster of UCC Churches will host a free pig-roast and concert at MYO Park in Millersburg. Brothers in Grace, a Southern Gospel quartet from the Hershey area, will provide the music. Bring a covered-dish to share, and a lawn chair. A free-will offering will be received. All are welcome – come join us for great food, music, and fellowship!
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Events with our partners at Lutheran Camping Corporation
Summer Camp with Lutheran Camping Corporation - use code PENNCENTRAL2023 to use a 50% campership from PCC's Outdoor Ministries!
Hartman Center Homecoming week
July 31 through August 5, 2023
We will be returning to Hartman Center Campground in Milroy, PA as guests.
Camping experiences for all ages, including intergenerational camps.
2 night camps - Monday, July 31 at 4PM through Wednesday, August 2 at 4PM
Getting Started - Grades 1 and 2 ($125)
Intergenerational Camp ($125)
3 night camps - Wednesday, August 2 at 4PM through Saturday, August 5 at 11AM
Intergenerational Camp ($190)
Camp of the Heart ($250)
5 night camps - Monday, 31 at 4PM through Saturday, August 5 at 11AM
Elementary - Grades 3 - 5 ($300)
Junior High - Grades 6 - 8 ($300)
Senior High - Grades 9 - 12 plus ($300)
Leadership - Grades 9 - 12 plus ($300)
For more information, contact Rev. Alice Rauch alirauch07@gmail.com (director)
or Rev. Amelia Price aashivers@gmail.com (registrar)
Register here and print a brochure here
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Summer camp with St. John's UCC, Chambersburg
2023 Summer Camps
Camp Galilee (9-12) June 18-23
Camp Kum Ba Yah (5-8) June 25-30
Camp Noah (K-4) June 26-30
Learn more here.
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Upcoming Trainings sponsored by the National Setting. Please click the Title link to register
Monday, June 12, 9:30pm – 11:00pm PM Eastern Time, 6:30pm-8pm Pacific Time: PPRC to PSC with Rev. Tara Barber and Rev. Stephen Boyd
Pastoral Support Committees - Not your Predecessors PPRC! Pastor/Parish Relations Committees have provided essential leadership in the life of a congregation. And the name has led to some confusion about the focus of their role. Come to this workshop as we explore what it means to become a Pastoral Support Committee - what it is and what it is not. We'll be talking through and naming the priorities and commitments of a well-functioning PSC. Revs Tara and Stephen will share best practices from around the church and be prepared to answer your questions. Open to pastors, lay leaders, and judicatory staff. **Please note the late hour is to accommodate leaders on the West Coast and in the Pacific Islands. Other trainings happen at times geared more for folk in the Eastern and Central time zones.**
Wednesday, June 21, 5:00-8:00 pm: Retired Ministers Boundary Training
Maintaining healthy boundaries is challenging at any stage in ministry and it is particularly tender and difficult attending to boundaries as we transition out of our last call, and while in retirement. "A Sure Foundation", "The Ministerial Code" and Rev. Dr. Bruce Epperly's new book, "The Jubilee Years" along with case studies, will provide the content of this training. Rev. Stephen Boyd and Rev. Tara Barber will offer this focused Boundary Awareness Training for those entering and living in retirement. Note - This training completes individual requirements for boundary training ONLY WHEN authorized by a local Committee on Ministry.
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From our Friends and Partners | |
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Bethany Children's Home
Celebrating 160 Years
Summer Concert Series
July 14th - Flamin' Dick & the Hot Rods - 5:00PM, $5.00 per car
August 19th - Anniversary Day Returns: Raffles, Live Music, Carnival Games, Food & Ride - $5.00 per car & additional costs for activities
Jeff Krick Jr: Elvis Tribute - 12:00PM
The Celtic Martins - 3:00PM
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On June 15, Phoebe will celebrate the 25th Anniversary of our Clinical Pastoral Education program with current students, alumni, staff, generous donors and members of the community. The Reverend Naomi Washington-Leapheart, currently Director of Faith-Based and Interfaith Affairs for the city of Philadelphia will be speaking at the event. She is a graduate of Lancaster Seminary and an ordained UCC minister. The event will take place at the Lehigh Country Club, at 2319 S Cedar Crest Blvd, Allentown, PA 18103.
If your church, business or organization would like to be a sponsor for the event, here is the link to the sponsorship page on our website: https://phoebe.org/cpe-25-years-sponsorship-form/ If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to be in contact with me.
| Are you interested in singing inspirational and fun music for Central Pennsylvania Pride? MCC of the Spirit's choir is welcoming UCC and UU singers to join our rehearsals for Voices United Pride Concert (July 28th, 7:00PM) and the Spirits United Interfaith Pride Service (July 30th, 5:00PM) Rehearsals begin every Thursday from 7:00-9:00PM starting June 1st at MCC of the Spirit, 2973 Jefferson St., Harrisburg, PA 17110, plus additional optional rehearsals Mondays in July at Colonial Park UCC. Ability to read music not required, just have a willingness to learn and make a joyful noise. The choir will be singing religious, inspirational and pop pieces. Contact Rev. Lawrence at revlawrence@mccofthespirit.org for more details or to let him know if you are interested. | |
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"Making All Things New"
General Synod 2023
"Making All Things New” will be the theme of the 34th biennial General Synod of the United Church of Christ, scheduled for June 30–July 4, 2023, in Indianapolis.
Delegates and visitors will meet June 30 through July 4 at the Indianapolis Convention Center.
For the full press release, click here.
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Our Whole Lives training
In addition to an increasing number of in-person trainings across the country, Our Whole Lives trainings will continue to be offered online in 2023 for UCC and UUA members, at a cost of only $250 plus curriculum.
Registration applications will be accepted from July 17-July 31 for a Jr Sr High Level Training in September
Registration applications will be accepted from Aug 21-Sept 5 for an Elementary (Grades K-1 and 4-6) Training in October
Registration applications will be accepted from Sept 11-Sept 25 for an All Adult Levels Training in November
More information about these trainings, in addition to information about upcoming in-person trainings, can be found here.
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From our friends and partners | |
Pennsylvania Academy of Ministry (PAM) | |
BIBLICAL INTERPRETATION 2
July 11 - August 15, 2023
Tuesday evenings via Zoom.
Clergy and laity are invited to join instructor Kelsey Wallace for an introduction to the art and practice of biblical interpretation. We will consider issues of historical context, translation, literary analysis, and social location and the skills necessary to be a responsible public interpreter of scripture.
For clergy/pastors and lay leaders
$325 for each of the two series of six classes
2.5 CEUs may be earned for each series
Information and Registration: https://www.lancasterseminary.edu/programs/pennsylvania-academy-of-ministry/
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2023 Festival of Biblical Storytelling
AUGUST 2,3, AND 4, 2023
At the Maritime Conference Center near BWI and Baltimore, MD
Learn more and register here.
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Directory
Rev. Dr. Carrie Call, Ph.D.
Conference Minister
email: ccall@pccucc.org
Phone: 717-433-3196
Rev. Dr. Nora Driver Foust
Associate Conference Minister
email: nfoust@pccucc.org
Phone: 717-433-2587
Rev. Rick Luciotti
Coordinator of Care to Clergy & Clergy Families
email: rluciotti@gmail.com
Phone: 717-433-6306
C. Paul Keller
Office Manager
email: pkeller@pccucc.org
Phone: 717-652-1560
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