BCUCC News for Sunday, January 13, 2019

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News and Upcoming Events

  • Saturday January 12: Citizens Climate Lobby meets in Manzanita Hall, 9:30 am.

  • Worship Sunday January 13: Topic: “Gift of Water and Spirit.” Scripture: Acts 8:9-24.
  • Tuesday, January 15, Church Council, 7 pm in Joshua Tree Room:
  • Tuesday, January 22: Everyday Peacemaking: Compassionate Communication.  Two sessions, at 10-11:30am or 7-8:30pm.  Both in the Church Office.  RSVP requested to Pastor Terry.  Topic: “Care-full conversations”- showing you care even when you’re tense!

  • Thursday, January 31: Taizé service at 6:30 pm in Sequoia Hall.

Save the dates:

  • Saturday February 2, 10am to noon: Teach-in on Racism, led by Mike Rodriguez
  • February 15-18: Common Good Film Festival at Claremont School of Theology.  View film from a process relational theology perspective.  See http://whiteheadfilmfestival.org for details.
  • Saturday March 9: Chapman University Founder’s Day.  A day of celebration and learning for UCC and Disciples.  Learn about the St. John’s Bible.  Written on vellum using medieval calligraphic techniques with luminous illustrations, the St. John’s Bible seeks to awaken a biblical passion for social justice and appreciation for art, science, and discovery.  Complete information at http://www.chapman.edu/founders-day.

 


Ongoing

  • Tai Chi is Thursdays at 6:30pm in the Sanctuary, January 17 and 24.
  • Bible Study is on Thursdays at 2-3pm.  We will resume after the holidays January 10.  Join us in the pastor’s office; you are always welcome.  We are studying the Gospel of John.  Lively discussion about what scripture means to us today. No homework! 

  • Choir practice Thursdays at 7:30pm.  Like to sing but not sure you’re ready for prime time?  Jessica Cosley is a fabulous teacher and our choir is a great place to grow musically. Join us!

 

  •    The BCUCC Theological Book Club will begin reading a new book, In the Shelter, by Padraig O Tuama.  There’s an old Irish proverb: ‘It is in the shelter of each other that the people live.’  Interweaving everyday stories with analysis, gospel reflections with mindfulness and Celtic spirituality with poetry, this book explores the practice of welcoming as a spiritual discipline.  It is comforting and inspiring.  Come join the fun and discussions at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesdays, January 9th for chapters 1-3, January 23rd for chapters 4-6, and February 6th for chapters 7-10.  We’ll meet at the Hill household.  Please email at jandkhill@mac.com or call 714-693-0261 for directions.  See you then!

 

 

UCC’s ONA movement celebrates milestone – 1,500 churches

A small New Hampshire congregation, along with the Open and Affirming Coalition United Church of Christ, marked an important milestone on New Year’s Eve — by becoming the 1,500th ONA church in the denomination.

“It was very exciting to find out we were the 1,500th UCC church to become ONA,” said the Rev. Sharon van der Laan, pastor of Lancaster Congregational United Church of Christ, Lancaster, N.H. “I think I yelled it out! And we announced it on Sunday of course.”

The milestone was hailed by the Open and Affirming Coalition. “We’re the largest and fastest-growing LGBTQ-affirming church movement in the world, and our growth has accelerated over the past several years,” said the Coalition’s executive director, Andy Lang. “Almost all churches in the UCC that identify as ‘progressive’ have already taken this step, but increasingly we’re seeing accelerated growth among more traditional and rural churches. These are churches that 10 years ago would never have dreamed that ONA was right for them. We’re now learning that ONA is a good fit for any congregation, wherever they may fall on the theological spectrum.”

BCC News for January 6, 2019

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  • Worship Sunday January 6. Topic: “One Light” (An interfaith reflection for Epiphany) Scripture: Matthew 2:1-12. Please join us for a brief Congregational Meeting 11 am (after worship.)  First Food Sunday (bring food items for the Brea Food Shelf) and Potluck after Worship too!  Lastly, your Christmas Undecorating help is appreciated.
  • Wednesday January 9, 2-4 pm:  Art and Soul.Janine Arp will have another fun craft activity for us: stay tuned! 

  • Thursday January 10, 6:30 pm: Worship Team meets in Church office.

Ongoing

  • Tai Chi is Thursdays at 6:30pm in the Sanctuary, January 17 and 24.
  • Bible Study is on Thursdays at 2-3pm. We will resume after the holidays January 10.  Join us in the pastor’s office; you are always welcome.  We are studying the Gospel of John.  Lively discussion about what scripture means to us today. No homework! 

  • Choir practice Thursdays at 7:30pm.  Like to sing but not sure you’re ready for prime time?  Jessica Cosley is a fabulous teacher and our choir is a great place to grow musically. Join us!
  • The BCUCC Theological Book Club will begin reading a new book, In the Shelter, by Padraig O Tuama.  There’s an old Irish proverb: ‘It is in the shelter of each other that the people live.’  Interweaving everyday stories with analysis, gospel reflections with mindfulness and Celtic spirituality with poetry, this book explores the practice of welcoming as a spiritual discipline.  It is comforting and inspiring.  Come join the fun and discussions at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesdays, January 9th for chapters 1-3, January 23rd for chapters 4-6, and February 6th for chapters 7-10.  We’ll meet at the Hill household.  Please email at jandkhill@mac.com or call 714-693-0261 for directions.  See you then!

At the Jan. 6 Congregational meeting,we will vote to become a UCC Creation Justice Church.  Your Church Council proposes we adopt this Creation Justice Covenant:

We, the members of Brea Congregational United Church of Christ

  • Embrace our responsibility to be good stewards of God’s earth
  • We feel God’s presence in nature
  • We strive to treat the environment with respect; to preserve it for generations to come.
  • We believe this is fundamentally Christian, and that we are called to care for one another and for all of Gods creation.
  • We recognize that those negatively affected by environmental degradation and an unstable climate are often those least able to cope and who need support.
  • We will work to do our part, with God’s help.

 

Making Justice Connections: by Rev. Dr. Brooks Berndt,  Environmental Justice Minister for the United Church of Christ.  In an article entitled “How Gay Marriage Suggests a Strategy for Climate Change,” Jeff McMahon recounts how marriage equality seemed to be nowhere near the horizon of possibility in 2004, but then something started to happen. It became adopted state by state. Momentum gathered, and now it is the law of the land for the entire nation.

So what is to be learned from this? David Hochschild, the environmental commissioner for the California Energy Commission, contends, “I think there’s actually some lessons for the climate movement in what happened with marriage equality, because they framed the movement in terms of love: Government has no place to get between two people who love each other.” He adds, “I actually think climate change is the same thing. It’s about loving the next generation.”

As Christians, we frequently root our sense of calling in love, and I have observed that the strongest motivator for many who engage in the work of addressing the damage done to our climate is a love of children. We care about the environment they inhabit, and we care about the future they will inherit from our actions today.

Churches know how to speak of love. It is the grounds of our theology, purpose, and passion. We have an immense potential to lead on climate because of our ability to articulate what fundamentally drives so many of us to action. In truth, we should be at the forefront of the climate movement.

In this struggle, time is of the essence. Rapid change is needed. Let’s rise to the occasion.

Though we cannot think alike, may we not love alike?

-John Wesley

BCUCC News and Reminders

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BCUCC News for Sunday, Dec 30, 2018

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News and Upcoming Events

  •        The Reverend Michael Lewis is planning a special family worship and communion service for this Sunday in the Fellowship Hall based on the theme “Turn, Turn, Turn.” During this time of the year around the winter solstice, we are in the thin, liminal space between light and dark, which coincides with our observance of Jesus’s coming into the world, bringing new light and new things into our lives. We are in the process of reinventing ourselves, our congregation, and the institutions of our nation. Our worship on Sunday will be centered on the symbol of bowls, as they represent the place where turning and mixing and reinventing can happen. In some ways, our church life and our relationship with God can serve as these vessels for reinvention and transformation. Congregants are invited to bring bowls to church that are special to them in any way to be added to Sunday’s worship center. Anyone who likes may make a short statement on why this symbol or artifact is meaningful to them. We’re looking forward to seeing you on Sunday as we reflect on our journey together to turn, turn, turn.
  • The office will be closed from Dec. 25 through Jan. 2.   We will periodically check messages—anything urgent please text or phone Pastor Terry.

  • Tai Chi is Thursdays at 6:30pm in the Sanctuary, January 3, 17 and 24.
  • Sunday January 6: Brief Congregational Meeting 11 am (after worship.)  First Food Sunday and Potluck.
  • Wednesday January 9, 2-4 pm:  Art and Soul.  Janine Arp will have another fun craft activity for us: stay tuned!  

 

Ongoing

  • Bible Study is on Thursdays at 2-3pm.  We will resume after the holidays January 3.  Join us in the pastor’s office; you are always welcome.  We are studying the Gospel of John.  Lively discussion about what scripture means to us today. No homework! 

  • Choir practice Thursdays at 7:30pm.  Like to sing but not sure you’re ready for prime time?  Jessica Cosley is a fabulous teacher and our choir is a great place to grow musically. Join us!

  •  The BCUCC Theological Book Club will begin reading a new book, In the Shelter, by Padraig O Tuama.  There’s an old Irish proverb: ‘It is in the shelter of each other that the people live.’  Interweaving everyday stories with analysis, gospel reflections with mindfulness and Celtic spirituality with poetry, this book explores the practice of welcoming as a spiritual discipline.  It is comforting and inspiring.  Come join the fun and discussions at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesdays, January 9th for chapters 1-3, January 23rd for chapters 4-6, and February 6th for chapters 7-10.  We’ll meet at the Hill household.  Please email at jandkhill@mac.com or call 714-693-0261 for directions.  See you then!

BCUCC News for Sunday, Dec 23, 2018

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News and Upcoming Events

  • Sunday Dec. 23.  Worship 10am. Fourth Sunday of Advent. Theme: “Leap of Faith” Bible Reading: Luke 3:7-18.
  • Sunday Dec. 23, after worship:  Christmas Cookie Exchange!  Bring a dozen or more of your specialty and take a dozen of other varieties home with you. Bring a container!
  • Sunday Dec. 23, 4-6 pm The YAYA’s invite you to go caroling, followed by cocoa and treats at the church. We will carpool to some nearby locations.  If you can’t sing, just smile and bring good cheer.
  • Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 7:30pm.  Singing carols and lighting candles… what a great time to invite family and friends!  See you there.
  • The office will be closed from Dec. 25 through Jan. 2.   We will periodically check messages—anything urgent please text or phone Pastor Terry.

  • Sunday Dec. 30, 10am: Special Worship Service in the Hall led by Michael Lewis.
  • Tai Chi is Thursdays at 6:30pm in the Sanctuary, January 3, 17 and 24.
  • Sunday January 6: Brief Congregational Meeting 11 am (after worship.)  First Food Sunday and Potluck.
  • Wednesday January 9, 2-4 pm:  Art and Soul.  Janine Arp will have another fun craft activity for us: stay tuned! 

 

Ongoing

  • Bible Study is on Thursdays at 2-3pm.  We will resume after the holidays January 3.  Join us in the pastor’s office; you are always welcome.  We are studying the Gospel of John.  Lively discussion about what scripture means to us today. No homework! 

  • Choir practice Thursdays at 7:30pm.  Like to sing but not sure you’re ready for prime time?  Jessica Cosley is a fabulous teacher and our choir is a great place to grow musically. Join us!
  • The BCUCC Theological Book Club will begin reading a new book, In the Shelter, by Padraig O Tuama.  There’s an old Irish proverb: ‘It is in the shelter of each other that the people live.’  Interweaving everyday stories with analysis, gospel reflections with mindfulness and Celtic spirituality with poetry, this book explores the practice of welcoming as a spiritual discipline.  It is comforting and inspiring.  Come join the fun and discussions at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesdays, January 9th for chapters 1-3, January 23rd for chapters 4-6, and February 6th for chapters 7-10.  We’ll meet at the Hill household.  Please email at jandkhill@mac.com or call 714-693-0261 for directions.  See you then!

 

An update from our Pastor Search Committee:

       As you know, the group has been actively reviewing candidates for several months. Many applicant profiles have been carefully considered and several candidates have been interviewed, a few multiple times. We are pleased to announce that our search has been narrowed to one preferred candidate. A few final evaluation steps are now underway, and we hope to complete the process in January. At the end of this thoughtful journey, the candidate will visit our church, will be introduced to the congregation through a sermon, and members will be asked to provide final approval.  Between now and then, we ask for your continued prayers for wisdom and discernment within our Search Committee.

At the Jan. 6 Congregational meeting, we will vote to become a UCC Creation Justice Church.  Your Church Council proposes we adopt this Creation Justice Covenant:

We, the members of Brea Congregational United Church of Christ

  • Embrace our responsibility to be good stewards of God’s earth
  • We feel God’s presence in nature
  • We strive to treat the environment with respect; to preserve it for generations to come.
  • We believe this is fundamentally Christian, and that we are called to care for one another and for all of Gods creation.
  • We recognize that those negatively affected by environmental degradation and an unstable climate are often those least able to cope and who need support.
  • We will work to do our part, with God’s help.

We don’t see things the way they are, we see things the way we are.

-Anaïs Nin

BCUCC News for Sunday, Dec 16, 2018

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News and Upcoming Events

  • Saturday December 15, 10-12pm: Allies to Jews.  Kate Potter (sister of Kris Percy) will lead this “teach-in” event in our church hall.  Learn how to support our Jewish neighbors in the face of recent anti-Jewish crimes in Orange County.
  • Sunday Dec. 16.  Worship 10am. Third Sunday of Advent. Theme: “What Should We Do?” Bible Reading: Luke 3:7-18.
  • Tuesday December 18: Everyday Peacemaking: Compassionate Communication.  Two opportunities. Morning session 10-11:30am; Evening session 7-8:30pm in the church office (ring bell at gate on Flower Street).  Topic: Self-empathy. Beginners welcome.
  • Sunday Dec. 23, after worship:  Christmas Cookie Exchange!  Bring a dozen or more of your specialty and take a dozen of other varieties home with you. Bring a container!
  • Sunday Dec. 23, 4-6 pm The YAYA’s invite you to go caroling, followed by cocoa and treats at the church. We will carpool to some nearby locations.  If you can’t sing, just smile and bring good cheer.
  • Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 7:30pm.  Singing carols and lighting candles… what a great time to invite family and friends!  See you there.
  • Sunday Dec. 30, 10am: Special Worship Service in the Hall led by Michael Lewis.

 

  • Sunday January 6: Brief Congregational Meeting 11 am (after worship.)  First Food Sunday and Potluck.

 

 

Ongoing

  • The BCUCC Theological Book Club will be reading, The Heart is a Little to the Left, by William Sloane Coffin.  The preface of this book reads, “If we are to be equal to the times we live in and to the greater problems the future will bring, we had better learn to scorn trifles and strive to be far more imaginative and more generous in spirit.  Above all, I believe we need to claim the kinship of all people, to recover the prophetic insight that we belong one to another, every one of us.”  You are welcome to join us in the discussion on Wednesday, December 19th at 7:00p.m. at the home of the Hills.  Please call or email us at 714-693-0261 or jandkhill@mac.com for directions.
  • Bible Study is on Thursdays at 2-3pm.  We will resume after the holdiays January 3.  Join us in the pastor’s office; you are always welcome.  We are studying the Gospel of John.  Lively discussion about what scripture means to us today. No homework! 

  • Choir practice Thursdays at 7:30pm. Like to sing but not sure you’re ready for prime time?  Jessica Cosley is a fabulous teacher and our choir is a great place to grow musically. Join us!
  • Tai Chi will take a hiatus for the month of December, returning on Thursday January 3.

 

Donations in December:  Our Council has decided to offer you two ways to give holiday gifts to those in need. Look for containers in the church entry coming soon.

  1. The Preschool invited us to participate ingift giving for teenswho are clients at Children and Youth Behavioral Health.  Gifts due this Sunday the 16th!

  1. Gifts for a homeless family who attend Bryan Wake’s school. Gift cards to Walmart, JCPenney or Target are most helpful.

  1. To asylum seekers just released from detention in OC and on their way to host families around the country.  From Sheryl at Friends of Orange County Detainees:

 “We are always in need of men’s clothing, specifically:  Slim fitting jeans.  The sizes most in demand are 29 to 34, although we occasionally have a 36, smaller sizes are most needed. Cotton casual slim fitting pants, same sizes as above. T-shirts, small through large, small and medium most in demand. Jackets coats and cold weather gear, all sizes; sweat shirts and hoodies all sizes; athletic and casual shoes all sizes, we are very short on 7.5 to 9; new underwear (not white), boxers and boxer briefs preferred; new socks; small (carryon) suitcases and duffel bags. It is a great experience when people who have been detained for months or years have a chance to select their own clothing. I tell them all of these items are available because people care about them and welcome them to our country.”

Don‘t ask yourself what the world needs.

Ask yourself what makes you come alive, and go do that,

because what the world needs is people who have come alive.

-Howard Thurman

BCUCC News for Sunday, Dec 9, 2018

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News and Upcoming Events

  • Bring Christmas photos and wall hangings… We have room along the side walls of the sanctuary for your hangable Christmas decorations and framed photos.  Our Tree of Remembrance (front right, decorated in blue) welcomes photos or mementos of loved ones whom you are missing.
  • Sunday Dec. 9.  Worship 10am. Second Sunday of Advent. Theme: “Expecting God in Unexpected Places” Bible Reading: Luke 3:1-6.
  • Thursday Dec.13, 2:30-4:30pm: Art and Soul.  More (and continuing) Polymer Clay Art with Janine Arp in the Hall.  All are welcome.
  • Saturday December 15, 10-12pm: Allies to Jews.  Kate Potter (sister of Kris Percy) will lead this “teach-in” event in our church hall.  Learn how to support our Jewish neighbors in the face of recent anti-Jewish crimes in Orange County.
  • Tuesday December 18: Everyday Peacemaking: Compassionate Communication.  Two opportunities. Morning session 10-11:30am; Evening session 7-8:30pm in the church office (ring bell at gate on Flower Street).  Topic: Self-empathy. Beginners welcome.
  • Sunday Dec. 23, 4-6 pm (note time change): The YAYA’s invite you to go caroling, followed by cocoa and treats at the church. We will carpool to some nearby locations.  If you can’t sing, just smile and bring good cheer.
  • Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 7:30pm.  Singing carols and lighting candles… what a great time to invite family and friends!  See you there.
  • Sunday Dec. 30, 10am: Special Worship Service in the Hall led by Michael Lewis.

 

  • Sunday January 6:  Congregational Meeting 11 am (after worship.)

Ongoing

  • The BCUCC Theological Book Club will be reading, The Heart is a Little to the Left, by William Sloane Coffin.  The preface of this book reads, “If we are to be equal to the times we live in and to the greater problems the future will bring, we had better learn to scorn trifles and strive to be far more imaginative and more generous in spirit.  Above all, I believe we need to claim the kinship of all people, to recover the prophetic insight that we belong one to another, every one of us.”  You are welcome to join us in the discussion on Wednesday, December 19th at 7:00p.m. at the home of the Hills.  Please call or email us at 714-693-0261 or jandkhill@mac.com for directions.
  • Bible Study is on Thursdays at 2-3pm.  Join us in the pastor’s office; you are always welcome.  We are studying the Gospel of John.  Lively discussion about what scripture means to us today. No homework! 

  • Choir practice Thursdays at 7:30pm. Like to sing but not sure you’re ready for prime time?  Jessica Cosley is a fabulous teacher and our choir is a great place to grow musically. Join us!
  • Tai Chi will take a hiatus for the month of December, returning on Thursday January 3.

 

Donations in December:  Our Council has decided to offer you two ways to give holiday gifts to those in need. Look for containers in the church entry coming soon.

  1. Breaking news:  The Preschool invites us to participate in gift giving for teens who are clients at Children and Youth Behavioral Health.  Pick up a wish this Sunday, and return the gift by next Sunday.

  1. Gfits for a homeless family who attend Bryan Wake’s school. Gift cards to Walmart, JCPenney or Target are most helpful.

  1. To asylum seekers just released from detention in OC and on their way to host families around the country.  From Sheryl at Friends of Orange County Detainees:

 “We are always in need of men’s clothing, specifically:  Slim fitting jeans.  The sizes most in demand are 29 to 34, although we occasionally have a 36, smaller sizes are most needed. Cotton casual slim fitting pants, same sizes as above. T-shirts, small through large, small and medium most in demand. Jackets coats and cold weather gear, all sizes; sweat shirts and hoodies all sizes; athletic and casual shoes all sizes, we are very short on 7.5 to 9; new underwear (not white), boxers and boxer briefs preferred; new socks; small (carryon) suitcases and duffel bags. It is a great experience when people who have been detained for months or years have a chance to select their own clothing. I tell them all of these items are available because people care about them and welcome them to our country.”

Lord, oil the hinges of our hearts’ doors

that they may swing gently and easily to welcome your coming.

BCUCC News for Sunday, Dec 2, 2018

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News and Upcoming Events

  • Saturday Dec. 1, 9am: Hanging of the Greens part 1. Help us decorate the sanctuary and hall!  Bring your old clothes and your creativity.
  • Saturday Dec. 1 following Hanging of the Greens: Photo Ark.  Carpool from the church to see this free photo exhibit of the world’s animals at the Annenberg Space for Photography in L.A. Bring a picnic lunch (or pick something up at the food court two blocks away.
  • Bring Christmas photos and wall hangings… We have room along the side walls of the sanctuary for your hangable Christmas decorations and framed photos.
  • Sunday Dec. 2.  Hanging of the Greens part 2: worship service at 10am.  Potluck after worship!  All are welcome.  Bring a dish to share.  First Food Sunday.  Bring food to worship for Brea residents in need. Typically needed to supplement bulk food supplies: canned fruit, healthy lunch snacks, jams and jellies, oatmeal, easy-open foods for people without kitchen access.
  • Thursday Dec.6, 6:30pm: Worship Team Meeting.
  • Saturday December 15, 10-12pm: Allies to Jews.  Kate Potter (sister of Kris Percy) will lead this “teach-in” event in our church hall.  Learn how to support our Jewish neighbors in the face of recent anti-Jewish crimes in Orange County.
  • Tuesday December 18: Everyday Peacemaking: Compassionate Communication.  Two opportunities. Morning session 10-11:30am; Evening session 7-8:30pm in the church office (ring bell at gate on Flower Street).  Topic: Self-empathy. Beginners welcome.
  • Sunday Dec. 23, 4-6 pm (note time change): The YAYA’s invite you to go caroling, followed by cocoa and treats at the church. We will carpool to some nearby locations.  If you can’t sing, just smile and bring good cheer.
  • Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 7:30pm.  Singing carols and lighting candles… what a great time to invite family and friends!  See you there.

 

Ongoing

  • The BCUCC Theological Book Club will be reading, The Heart is a Little to the Left, by William Sloane Coffin.  The preface of this book reads, “If we are to be equal to the times we live in and to the greater problems the future will bring, we had better learn to scorn trifles and strive to be far more imaginative and more generous in spirit.  Above all, I believe we need to claim the kinship of all people, to recover the prophetic insight that we belong one to another, every one of us.”  You are welcome to join us in the discussion on Wednesday, December 19th at 7:00p.m. at the home of the Hills.  Please call or email us at 714-693-0261 or jandkhill@mac.com for directions.
  • Bible Study is on Thursdays at 2-3pm.  Join us in the pastor’s office; you are always welcome.  We are studying the Gospel of John.  Lively discussion about what scripture means to us today. No homework! 

  • Choir practice Thursdays at 7:30. Like to sing but not sure you’re ready for prime time?  Jessica Cosley is a fabulous teacher and our choir is a great place to grow musically. Join us!
  •  Share the message!  Sermons are online in both video and print form on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/56642580963/. Print copies are available on the table in the church entry, and the blog justshine1.blogspot.com.

 

Donations in December:  Our Council has decided to offer you two ways to give holiday gifts to those in need. Look for containers in the church entry coming soon.

  1. To a homeless family who attend Bryan Wake’s school. Stay tuned for specific gifts sought.

  1. To asylum seekers just released from detention in OC and on their way to host families around the country.  From Sheryl at Friends of Orange County Detainees:

 “We are always in need of men’s clothing, specifically:  Slim fitting jeans.  The sizes most in demand are 29 to 34, although we occasionally have a 36, smaller sizes are most needed. Cotton casual slim fitting pants, same sizes as above. T-shirts, small through large, small and medium most in demand. Jackets coats and cold weather gear, all sizes; sweat shirts and hoodies all sizes; athletic and casual shoes all sizes, we are very short on 7.5 to 9; new underwear (not white), boxers and boxer briefs preferred; new socks; small (carryon) suitcases and duffel bags. It is a great experience when people who have been detained for months or years have a chance to select their own clothing. I tell them all of these items are available because people care about them and welcome them to our country.”

BCUCC News for Sunday, November 25, 2018

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News and Upcoming Events

  •       Thursday November 22: Happy Thanksgiving!!
  •     Sunday November 25:10am Worship.  Bible reading: Mark 10:17-31. Theme: “Persistent Love.”
  • Tues. Nov. 27: Everyday Peacemaking – Compassionate Communication at 10-11:30am and 7-8:30pm. Using real-world situations, learn to speak your truth in a way that respects others and builds trust. Topic:  Principles of Effective Communication.  In the church office (Enter through the gate on Flower Street.)

 

  • Saturday Dec. 1 at 9 am: Hanging of the Greens.  (Part 1) Help us decorate the sanctuary and hall!  Bring your old clothes and your creativity.
  • Sunday Dec. 2.  Hanging of the Greens special worship service.  Potluck after worship!  All are welcome.  Bring a dish to share.  First Food Sunday.  Bring food to worship for Brea residents in need. Typically needed to supplement bulk food supplies: canned fruit, healthy lunch snacks, jams and jellies, oatmeal, easy-open foods for people without kitchen access.
  • Thanks to all who participated in our Interfaith Shelter Network Fall 4-week stay, which finishes Saturday.  Special thanks to Ann Marshall and Carol This who coordinated food and logistics.  This special ministry gives a small group of people private and friendly room and board while they put their lives together. Churches much larger than ours are in awe of what we accomplish.  You make a difference!

  • Holiday events upcoming:  We are scheming fun events… stay tuned!

 

 

Ongoing

  • Bible Study is on Thursdays at 2-3pm.  Join us in the pastor’s office; you are always welcome.  We are studying the Gospel of John.  Lively discussion about what scripture means to us today. No homework!
  • Thursdays 6:30: Tai Chi. Karen will guide us in this gentle meditative movement: restorative for body and soul. All ages welcome. Wear comfortable stretchable clothing; layers so you can be a comfortable temperature. Scheduled Nov. 1, 15, 29. 

  • Choir practice Thursdays at 7:30. Like to sing but not sure you’re ready for prime time?  Jessica Cosley is a fabulous teacher and our choir is a great place to grow musically. Join us!

Reminder: Has your Ralphs community card been updated? If not, Brian Wake can help you!

Neighbors in Need Special Mission Offering (NIN) of the United Church of Christ supports ministries of justice and compassion throughout the United States. We raised $763 last Sunday.  An additional matching amount will be donated from memorial mission funds to Friends of Orange County Detainees.  You may contribute today, too. (Make checks to BCUCC, put “NIN in the memo.) Thanks for your generosity!

 

California Wildfires:  How can we help?  Monetary donations to https://www.calfund.org/wildfire-relief-fund/ go 100% to fire victims.

 

Gift Giving to those in need:  Our Council has decided to offer you two ways to give holiday gifts to those in need. Look for containers in the church entry coming soon.

  1. To a homeless family who attend Bryan Wake’s school. Stay tuned for specific gifts sought.

  1. To asylum seekers just released from detention in OC and on their way to host families around the country.  From Sheryl at Friends of Orange County Detainees:

“We are always in need of men’s clothing, specifically:  Slim fitting jeans.  The sizes most in demand are 29 to 34, although we occasionally have a 36, smaller sizes are most needed. Cotton casual slim fitting pants, same sizes as above. T-shirts, small through large, small and medium most in demand. Jackets coats and cold weather gear, all sizes; sweat shirts and hoodies all sizes; athletic and casual shoes all sizes, we are very short on 7.5 to 9; new underwear (not white), boxers and boxer briefs preferred; new socks; small (carryon) suitcases and duffel bags.

It is a great experience when people who have been detained for months or years have a chance to select their own clothing. I tell them all of these items are available because people care about them and welcome them to our country.”

Give us courage, gentle one, to be marked as one of yours.

Give us Wisdom to see through the pretensions to power which human structures parade –

the glamour and the misspent wealth, leaders who will not serve.

Give us clarity of purpose, simplicity and truth,

that the healing and joy of infinite love may come through us to earth. Amen

BCUCC News for Sunday, November 18, 2018

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News and Upcoming Events

  •      We have a new guest in the shelter program who lost all of her clothes. She is in need of size 8 clothing. Please bring your gently used or new clothes to the Fellowship hall.
  •    Sunday November 18:10am Worship Bible reading: Mark 11:12-25. Theme: “Good News for the Earth.”  Fourth Sunday of the Season of Creation. (By creation we mean God’s ongoing relationship with the world, in harmony with evolution.)
  • Sunday November 18: Neighbors in Need special UCC offering.  This offering provides grants to church-related ministries for mercy and social justice.  Matching funds will be given to OC’s own Neighbors in Need recipient, the Friends of OC Detainees, who coordinate volunteer visits and aid to immigrant detainees in OC jails, and to clothe them when they are finally released.
  • Oct. 27-November 24: Interfaith Shelter Network in the Hall. Thanks to all who are cooking and sharing mealtimes with our guests.  They appreciate our welcome. Thanks to Ann Marshall and Carol This for coordinating this important ministry. Please see Ann to sign up to buy perishable groceries when needed. Note: The shelter stay was extended two weeks.

 

  • Saturday Dec. 1 at 9 am: Hanging of the Greens.  Help us decorate the sanctuary and hall!  Bring your old clothes and your creativity.

 

Ongoing

  • Bible Study is now Thursdays at 2-3pm.  Join us in the pastor’s office; you are always welcome.  We are studying the Gospel of John.  Lively discussion about what scripture means to us today. No homework!
  • Thursdays 6:30: Tai Chi. Karen will guide us in this gentle meditative movement: restorative for body and soul. All ages welcome. Wear comfortable stretchable clothing; layers so you can be a comfortable temperature. Scheduled Nov. 1, 15, 29. 

  • Choir practice Thursdays at 7:30. Like to sing but not sure you’re ready for prime time?  Jessica Cosley is a fabulous teacher and our choir is a great place to grow musically. Join us!
  • Fellowship Time Refreshments needed!  Sign up at the Kiosk. Great way to do your holiday baking without eating it all!

Reminder: Has your Ralphs community card been updated? If not, Brian Wake can help you!

Neighbors in Need Special Mission Offering (NIN)  of the United Church of Christ that supports ministries of justice and compassion throughout the United States. One-third of NIN funds support the Council for American Indian Ministry (CAIM). Two-thirds of this offering is used by the UCC’s Justice and Witness Ministries (JWM) to support a variety of justice initiatives, advocacy efforts, and direct service projects through grants. Neighbors in Need grants are awarded to UCC churches and organizations doing justice work in their communities. These grants fund projects whose work ranges from direct service to community organizing and advocacy to address systemic injustice. This year, special consideration will be given to projects focusing on serving our immigrant neighbors and communities. Projects receiving grants have included food pantries and homeless shelters, a prison to community re-entry program, interfaith groups that advocate for worker justice, microbanking, and community organizer training.

Why “Creation Justice”? Using the term “creation” instead of “eco” or “environment” demonstrates our humble self-awareness that we are part of the created order our Creator constantly is at work with us to redeem and sustain. Using the term “justice” rather than “care” indicates our commitment to not only heal, tend, and restore God’s creation, but to ensure the protection of God’s planet and God’s people from exploitation, as well as provision for the remediation of the damage that has been done. Because of the connotations and meanings of the phrase creation justice, it was adopted in the naming of Creation Justice Ministries. More recently, the United Church of Christ has named their green church recognition program “Creation Justice Churches,” while the American Baptists have developed a “Creation Justice Network.”

 

UCC Creation Justice Resources: 

      http://www.ucc.org/creation_justice_churches

      http://www.ucc.org/creation_justice_webinar_series

      http://www.ucc.org/your_one_stop_shop_for_research_resources

Creator God, your love calls forth beetles and butterflies.

You speak in tendrils of green growth and the stark beauty of scree slopes.

Help us to see ourselves as precious and vulnerable,

held in relationship with all creation

by the Divine breath of love. Amen 

BCUCC News for Sunday, November 11, 2018

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News and Upcoming Events

  • Sunday November 11: 10am Worship, Blessing of Animals. Bible reading: Matthew 6:24-33. Theme: “All My Relations.” Third Sunday of the Season of Creation. (By creation we mean God’s ongoing relationship with the world, in harmony with evolution.) Pets who will be comfortable in worship (with perhaps a blanket or towel if they want pew space) are welcome.  If your pet is happier or safer at home, you may bring a photo and we will “bless remotely.”
  • November 14, 2-4pm: Art and Soul.  Thanks to Janine Arp for offering our featured craft, polymer clay, and some ideas for holiday décor.  Co-create some arts and crafts with us in the Hall with her guidance.  You can also bring your favorite project, and/or supplies to share.
  • 27-November 24: Interfaith Shelter Network in the Hall. Thanks to all who are cooking and sharing mealtimes with our guests. They appreciate our welcome. Thanks to Ann Marshall and Carol This for coordinating this important ministry. Please see Ann to sign up to buy perishable groceries when needed. Note: The shelter stay has been extended two weeks.

 

  • Sunday November 18: Neighbors in Need special UCC offering. This offering provides grants to church-related ministries for mercy and social justice.  Matching funds will be given to OC’s own Neighbors in Need recipient, the Friends of OC Detainees, who coordinate volunteer visits and aid to immigrant detainees in OC jails, and to clothe them when they are finally released.
  • Saturday Dec. 1 at 9 am: Hanging of the Greens. Help us decorate the sanctuary and hall!  Bring your old clothes and your creativity.

 

Ongoing

  • Bible Study is now Thursdays at 2-3pm. Join us in the pastor’s office; you are always welcome.  We are studying the Gospel of John.  Lively discussion about what scripture means to us today. No homework!
  • Thursdays 6:30: Tai Chi. Karen will guide us in this gentle meditative movement: restorative for body and soul. All ages welcome. Wear comfortable stretchable clothing; layers so you can be a comfortable temperature. Scheduled Nov. 1, 15, 29.

  • Choir practice Thursdays at 7:30. Like to sing but not sure you’re ready for prime time? Jessica Cosley is a fabulous teacher and our choir is a great place to grow musically. Join us!

Community events:

      Corpus Christi: a play by Terrence McNally: What if Jesus was gay?  Joshua, different from other boys because of his homosexuality, grows up in isolation and torment.  Fleeing his home, he gathers a group of disciples who are drawn to his radical message of love and tolerance.  Despite his message of equality, he will suffer the same fate as Jesus who also sought to change a wayward community—its arrogance, its ignorance, and its complacency.  November 9-18 in Santa Ana. Tickets at TheWaywardArtist.org.

 

“A more inclusive history of Brea” – The Brea Historical Society is part of a nationwide research program to document the history of de facto segregation. Let Pastor Terry know if you would like to participate in this project as part of a community conversation.

 

Reminder: Has your Ralphs community card been updated: If not, Brian Wake can help you!

 

Pastor Search Committee Update:  The diligent members of our Search Committee have reviewed at least 20 profiles and are conducting second interviews for six promising candidates.  They are Shannon Clay, Karen Hill, Randy Fowler, Russell Nowell, Kathryn Kadletz, Georlyn Igma, and Dave This.  Sharon Bölle and Ann Marshall are observers.

 

Neighbors in Need (NIN) is a special mission offering of the United Church of Christ that supports ministries of justice and compassion throughout the United States. One-third of NIN funds support the Council for American Indian Ministry (CAIM). Two-thirds of this offering is used by the UCC’s Justice and Witness Ministries (JWM) to support a variety of justice initiatives, advocacy efforts, and direct service projects through grants. Neighbors in Need grants are awarded to UCC churches and organizations doing justice work in their communities. These grants fund projects whose work ranges from direct service to community organizing and advocacy to address systemic injustice. This year, special consideration will be given to projects focusing on serving our immigrant neighbors and communities. Projects receiving grants include food pantries and homeless shelters, a prison to community re-entry program, interfaith groups that advocate for worker justice, microbanking, and community organizer training.

When we try to pick out anything by itself,

we find it hitched to everything else in the Universe.

-John Muir