(704) 599-9810 | Worship Sundays @ 10:55 a.m.
(704) 599-9810 | Worship Sundays @ 10:55 a.m.
Keeping Everybody in the Loop!
May 22, 2025
đ Overview: “Faith-in-Flesh”
In Faith in Flesh, the United Church of Christ explores the profound theological truth that our bodiesâevery shape, color, ability, and identityâare sacred reflections of Godâs image. This compelling reflection affirms that honoring the body is an act of faith, particularly for those whose flesh has been marginalized, policed, or ignored. Embracing an incarnational theology, the article challenges harmful ideologies of purity and perfection, celebrating the body as a site of divine wisdom, resistance, and love. Through storytelling, justice work, and radical affirmation, Faith in Flesh invites us to reclaim our bodies as holy ground.
May 15, 2025
May 08, 2025
đ Overview: “Thelma”
The UCC article “THELMA, the Theological Education for Leadership and Ministry Advancement initiative, is a groundbreaking program from the United Church of Christ designed to expand access to high-quality theological education for all. Rooted in the UCCâs commitment to justice, equity, and inclusive leadership, THELMA provides a flexible, accessible, and spiritually enriching curriculum for individuals discerning a call to ministryâwhether lay or ordained. The program nurtures diverse leaders from various backgrounds and life paths, offering contextual, culturally relevant formation that empowers participants to serve faithfully in todayâs ever-changing world.
May 01, 2025
đ Overview: “Labor Day”
In her reflection on International Workerâs Day, Rev. Melanie Oommen of the United Church of Christ highlights the historical significance of the 1886 labor protests in Chicago, which led to the establishment of May 1 as a day to honor workers globally. She draws parallels between the struggles of past laborers and contemporary issues, emphasizing the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized workers, including those affected by unjust immigration laws. Rev. Oommen invokes the Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard (Matthew 20:1â16) to underscore the Christian imperative to value all forms of labor and advocate for justice and dignity for every worker. She calls for the creation of equitable structures that recognize the worth of all laborers, urging collective action to support workers’ rights and well-being worldwide
Apr 24, 2025
Overworked, Overwhelmed, and Underpaid
đ Overview: “Overworked, Overwhelmed, and Underpaid”
The UCC article “Overworked, Overwhelmed, and Underpaid” delves into the increasing challenges faced by clergy and church staff in today’s demanding environment. It highlights the multifaceted pressuresâranging from extended working hours and emotional fatigue to financial constraintsâthat contribute to burnout among religious leaders. The piece underscores the importance of recognizing these struggles and advocates for systemic changes within church communities to provide better support, fair compensation, and sustainable workloads for their leaders. By addressing these issues, the UCC emphasizes the need to foster healthier, more resilient faith communities that can thrive amidst contemporary challenges.
Apr 17, 2025
It’s Time to Get Into Good Trouble
âIn the United Church of Christ’s article “I Am Thirsty,” Dr. Peter Makari reflects on Jesus’ poignant words from the cross, connecting them to the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza. He highlights the parallels between Jesus’ cry and the plight of those enduring famine, siege, and bombardment, emphasizing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region. The article calls for solidarity with the oppressed and a commitment to justice, urging readers to act with hope and love in the face of ongoing suffering.
Apr 10, 2025
It’s Time to Get Into Good Trouble
In “Springing Forward,” the United Church of Christ reflects on the season of spring as a metaphor for spiritual and communal renewal. The article encourages congregations to embrace this time of growth by engaging in acts of justice, compassion, and community building. It highlights the importance of moving forward with hope and purpose, drawing inspiration from the natural world’s rejuvenation to invigorate faith practices and social commitments. The piece serves as a call to action for individuals and communities to align their efforts with the transformative energy of spring, fostering a more just and loving world.
Apr 03, 2025
It’s Time to Get Into Good Trouble
The United Church of Christ’s Witness for Justice article, “It’s Time to Get into Good Trouble,” emphasizes the importance of actively engaging in justice work by showing up for justice, kindness, and love. The article encourages individuals to live their faith out loud and participate in transformative actions that align with these values. It serves as a call to embrace the concept of “good trouble” in the pursuit of social justice.
Mar 27, 2025
Mar 20, 2025
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