BCUCC News for Sunday, November 4, 2018

News and Upcoming Events

  • Saturday November 3: YAYA’s Movie Night 6-10pm. Dinner (in the hall with shelter guests) and child care provided.  Movie in the Sanctuary.  Bring a comfortable chair, costume if you have it, and enjoy costume and trivia contests.  Thanks Bryan Wake for organizing this! (What are YAYAs?  Youth and young adults.  It’s their thing but they invite everyone.)

    This Sunday Nov. 4:

  • TIME CHANGE!! Daylight savings time ends, sleep in an hour… or join the choir if you come an hour early!

 

  • First Food Sunday: Potluck and Food Shelf donations. Bring a favorite dish to share for a potluck lunch together after worship. 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.

 

  • Sunday November 4: 10am Worship. Reading: An adaptation of Luke 15:11-21, “The Prodigal Species.” Theme: The Cry of the Earth. Second Sunday of the Season of Creation (By creation we mean God’s ongoing relationship with the world, in harmony with evolution.)
  • Sunday November 11: Blessing of Animals in worship.
  • November 14, 2-4pm: Art and Soul.  Thanks to Janine for offering our featured craft, polymer clay.  Co-create some arts and crafts with us in the Hall with her guidance.  You can also your favorite project, and/or supplies to share.
  • 27-November 10: 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.

 

  • 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.

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!
  • The BCUCC Theological Book Club will be reading, Where Do We Go From Here—Chaos or Community, by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In this prophetic work, Dr. King lays out his thoughts, plans, and dreams for America’s future. It’s a universal message of hope that continues to resonate.  We’ll meet at the Hill’s home on Wednesday, November 7th at 7:00p.m.  Come enjoy the company and the discussion.  For directions please call the Hills at 714-693-0261 or email jandkhill@mac.com.
  • 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.

 

Voting Resources:

  • Early voting is at the Fullerton Community Center- including drive-thru ballot drop-off. 340 W. Commonwealth Avenue Located in Boardroom. Parking is located behind the
    Community Center.  Nov 3 – Nov 5, 7:00am–8:00pm.
  • Did you misplace your mail-in ballot: request an in-person ballot at early voting or your regular voting place. You can always submit a provisional ballot.
  • Can you mentor a new voter? Drive someone to the polls?  Help someone understand propositions or local candidates?  Talk someone into voting who doesn’t usually vote in off years?  Ask everyone you know to vote? These are all ways to strengthen our democracy and serve our community. For more info: org, ballotpedia.org, candidate websites.

 

Lift us from despair.

Lord, too often we are blind to the miracles of creation,

and deaf to the cries of injustice.

Open our eyes, Lord, to see the beauty of your world.

Open our ears to hear the cry of the earth.

Open our hearts to care for all living things.

Lift us from despair to hope, from apathy to action,

from indifference to compassion.

Lift us and heal us, for your love’s sake. Amen.

BCUCC News for Sunday, October 28, 2018

News and Upcoming Events

  • Sunday October 28: 10am Worship. Bible Reading: Psalm 148. Theme: Original Blessing. For this season of creation, we will add some different elements to worship. This week: a short drama “The Sun Dances” presented by Dennis Arp and Francie Quaas-Berryman.
  • Tuesday Oct. 30: 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. Focus: Wrapping a Conflict in Empathy.  In the church office (enter through the gate on Flower Street.)
  • Saturday November 3: YAYA’s Movie Night 6-10pm. Dinner (in the hall with shelter guests) and child care provided.  Movie in the Sanctuary.  Bring a comfortable chair, costume if you have it, and enjoy costume and trivia contests.  Thanks Bryan Wake for organizing this! (What are YAYAs?  Youth and young adults.  It’s their thing but they invite everyone.)
  • Sunday Nov. 4: First Food Sunday: Potluck and Food Shelf donations. Bring a favorite dish to share for lunch together. (Sandwich fillings for our Breads of the World would be appreciated.) 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.
  • 27-November 10: Interfaith Shelter Network in the Hall. Sign up with Sharon Everley to cook and serve a meal for ~10 people: meals still needed on 10/28 and 10/31.

 

Save the Dates:

  • 28- Nov. 18: Season of Creation: honoring the earth and all life as sacred.
    (By creation we mean God’s ongoing relationship with the world, in harmony with evolution.)
  • Sunday November 11: Blessing of Animals in worship.
  • Sunday November 18: Neighbors in Need special UCC offering for justice ministries. This UCC 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.

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!
  • The BCUCC Theological Book Club will be reading, Where Do We Go From Here—Chaos or Community, by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In this prophetic work, Dr. King lays out his thoughts, plans, and dreams for America’s future. It’s a universal message of hope that continues to resonate.  We’ll meet at the Hill’s home on Wednesday, November 7th at 7:00p.m.  Come enjoy the company and the discussion.  For directions please call or email at 714-693-0261 or jandkhill@mac.com.
  • 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:

Documenting Hate: Charlottesville and Orange County at Chapman University’s Memorial Hall, Monday Oct. 29, 7-9 pm.  Screening of the documentary “Documenting Hate Charlottesville,” followed by a panel discussion.

 

      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.

 

 

Thanks to all of you long-timers, newer participants, and friends who helped make Oktoberfest wonderful last Sunday.  Special thanks to Sharon Everley and Lorie Goetsch for some serious from-scratch cooking, and Sharone Bölle and friends for fun decorations. People are the church!

Grace-filled God, share with us your heart for creation;
That we may cherish all life,
working together to heal the damage we have done,
Knowing that in all our struggles you are beside us,
to inspire, strengthen and transform us.
Amen

BCUCC News for Sunday, October 21, 2018

News and Upcoming Events

  •  TOMORROW: Saturday October 20, 1-3pm, Manzanita.  AB329 Outreach & Queer & Transgender Equality training by Liz Sanchez.  If you have questions about how to be better advocates and allies for the transgender community, this will be a great class to attend!
  • Sunday October 21: 10am Worship. Bible reading: John 4:5-26.  Theme: Refreshed and Renewed. Guest preacher Lynne Prechel. Lynne is a Minister of Word and Service (Deacon) in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). She holds certificates in spiritual direction and supervision of spiritual directors, and has been in practice as a spiritual director for over fifteen years. Lynne has been teaching and leading spiritual formation practices for more than two decades.
  • Sunday October 21: Oktoberfest after worship. All are welcome.  Bratwurst the Goetsch way.  Come ready to share a favorite picture or memory of our beloved Bill. Contact Sharon Everley to sign up to help with food.
  • Wednesday October 24, 2-4 pm. Art and Soul In the hall, adults and teens, members and friends, all are welcome.  Bring your favorite art or craft project, get a little soul-spiration, and create!  Janine Arp will bring metal stamping supplies for us to learn to create jewelry or tags.  Thanks Janine!
  • 27-November 10: Interfaith Shelter Network in the Hall. Our ISN program is now being headed by OC United and City Net. Jay Williams with OC United is organizing a year round program and funding our friend Shelly for opening and overnight stays. City Net is providing case management. Our first turn with the program will be from October 27.  Sign up with Sharon Everley to cook and serve a meal for ~10-12 people.
  • 30: 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: Wrapping a Conflict in Empathy.  In the church office (Enter through the gate on Flower Street.)

 Save the Dates:

  • 28- Nov. 18: Season of Creation: honoring the earth and all life as sacred.
    (By creation we mean God’s ongoing relationship with the world, in harmony with evolution.)
  • Saturday November 3: YAYA’s Movie Night
  • Sunday November 11: Blessing of Animals in worship.
  • Sunday November 18: Neighbors in Need special UCC offering for justice ministries.

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!
  • The BCUCC Theological Book Club will be reading, Where Do We Go From Here—Chaos or Community, by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In this prophetic work, Dr. King lays out his thoughts, plans, and dreams for America’s future. It’s a universal message of hope that continues to resonate.  We’ll meet at the Hill’s home on Wednesday, November 7th at 7:00p.m.  Come enjoy the company and the discussion.  For directions please call or email at 714-693-0261 or jandkhill@mac.com.
  • 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. Continues through October.

  • 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 event: Documenting Hate: Charlottesville and Orange County at Chapman University, Monday Oct. 29, 7-9 pm.  Screening of the documentary “Documenting Hate Charlottesville,” followed by a panel discussion.

 

Voting resources

You can vote early Oct. 27-Nov. 2, 8am-5pm, Nov. 3-Nov. 5, 7am-8pm. at:

Anaheim City Hall, 200 S. Anaheim Blvd.

  • Fullerton Community Center, (drive-through ballot drop-off), 340 W. Commonwealth Ave.
    You can always bring a mail-in ballot to the polls, or request a provisional ballot if something goes awry.

    When you let go of who you are, you become who you might be.

    -Rumi

    Creation Care Tip: How can you pack or buy a lunch that leaves as little waste as possible?  Move toward a waste-free lunch.  Pack reusable food containers in reusable bags, or buy lunch at restaurants that provide washable tableware… Can we make it a habit?

BCUCC News for Sunday, October 14, 2018

News and Upcoming Events

  • Sunday October 14: 10am Worship. Bible reading: Romans 8:35-39. Theme: Freedom. Guest preacher Rev. Ken Wyant. Ken is originally from Lansing, Michigan. He attended seminary at Vanderbilt. He has served churches in Pittsburgh, PA; Hamilton, OH; and Los Alamitos, CA. He also taught tennis and managed Affordable Housing before retiring. Every Tuesday he leads Bible Study at Irvine UCC.
  • Sunday October 14: Creation Justice planning continues. In the hall after worship, in addition to snacks and drinks, read the display and contribute your ideas (if you haven’t already) about Creation Justice ministry at our church and how you can help.
  • Sunday October 21: Oktoberfest after worship. All are welcome.  Bratwurst the Goetsch way.  Come ready to share a favorite picture or memory of our beloved Bill. Contact Sharon Everley to sign up to help with food.
  • Wednesday October 24, 2-4 pm. Art and Soul In the hall, adults and teens, members and friends, all are welcome.  Bring your favorite art or craft project, get a little soul-spiration, and create!  Janine Arp will bring metal stamping supplies for us to learn to create jewelry or tags.  Thanks Janine!
  • 27-November 10: Interfaith Shelter Network in the Hall. Our ISN program is now being headed by OC United and City Net. Jay Williams with OC United is organizing a year round program and funding our friend Shelly for opening and overnight stays. City Net is providing case management. Our first turn with the program will be from October 27.  Sign up with Sharon Everley to cook and serve a meal for ~10-12 people.
  • 30: 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: Wrapping a Conflict in Empathy.  In the church office (Enter through the gate on Flower Street.)

Save the Dates:

  • 28- Nov. 18: Season of Creation*: honoring the earth and all life as sacred.
    (By creation we mean God’s ongoing relationship with the world, in harmony with evolution.)
  • Saturday November 3: YAYA’s Movie Night
  • Sunday November 11: Blessing of Animals in worship.

Ongoing

  • TheBCUCC Theological Book Club will be reading, Days of Awe and Wonder: How to be a Christian in the 21st Century, by Marcus J. Borg.  “God, the sacred, pervades all that is, even though we do not often see it.  But there are moments in which our eyes are opened, and we see the glory.”  Come join us in discovery.  We will meet on October 17th to discuss Chapters 9-16.  Light refreshments are served, and fun and discovery are enjoyed by all.  For more information, call Jim or Karen Hill at 714-693-0261 or email to jandkhill@mac.com.
  • 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! (No meeting October 18.)

  • 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. Continues through October.

  • 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!

Faithful action: vote the whole ticket and invite your friends to vote.

The Kingdom of God is not a political party or policy.  But our elected officials daily take actions that affect peoples’ lives and our environment.  We have the power to affect those decisions by our votes.  Research the whole ballot and vote your conscience.  Aid and encourage others to do the same.  Voter turnout for non-presidential elections determines results.  If you care about public policy, show up.  Research the whole ballot.  Support, mentor, and hold accountable people who have not yet developed the habit.

 

Voter’s edge is a comprehensive nonpartisan guide to elections.  Print yourself a sample ballot, access candidate statements, websites, endorsements, news articles and funding sources.

https://votersedge.org/ca

 

For new voters or those wanting a simple guide to statewide offices and propositions:

http://www.easyvoterguide.org

 

For candidate forums and proposition forums schedules: http://lwvnoc.org

 

To be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains,

but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.

– Nelson Mandela

Creation Care Tip:  Hope is different from optimism.  In the face of dire news about the environment, optimism may elude us, but hope is always available. Hope is a gift of our faith that empowers us to compassionate action in any situation.

BCUCC News for Sunday, October 7, 2018

News and Upcoming Events

  • Open Mosque Day Saturday Oct. 6 Our friends at Islamic Institute of Orange County (1220 N. State College Blvd., Anaheim) are holding their annual open house from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm on Saturday, October 6th.  They’ll offer tours of the mosque, answer questions about Islam, and, of course, fantastic food will be served! Please RSVP to Dave This (davidthis@gmail.com) so we can let them know who’s coming. Carpools from our church will be coordinated.
  • Saturday October 6: Apple Pie Day at Pilgrim Pines! Carpool from the church at 8:30am. Begins at 9:30am and ends at 3:00pm. Lunch and activities are included. Cost is $16 for adults and $12 for children 13 and under. Let’s carpool—call Terry at 949-400-3379.
  • Sunday October 7: 10am. World Communion Sunday Worship. Breads of the world will be shared for communion.
  • Sunday October 7: First Food Sunday: Potluck and Food Shelf donations. Bring a favorite dish to share for lunch together.  (Sandwich fillings for our Breads of the World would be appreciated.) 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.  Becoming a Creation Justice Church.  As part of our potluck lunch, we will have a short simple program to review our current Creation Justice efforts, share ideas, and begin to craft a Creation Justice Covenant and form a Green Team.  Please join us!
  • Wednesday October 10: Memorial service for Bill Goetsch, 10 am, Nixon Library, Yorba Linda. Reception follows.
  • Thursday October 11, 3pm: Join us to visit the Brea Museum special exhibit “A Class Action: Mendez v. Westminster, The Grass Roots Struggle for School Desegregation in California.” If you can’t join us, museum hours are Wed. – Fri. 2-8pm and Sat. 10-5pm.  This award-winning exhibit is only on display through Oct. 20.
  • Sunday October 21: Oktoberfest after worship. All are welcome.  Bratwurst the Goetsch way.  Come ready to share a favorite picture or memory of our beloved Bill. Contact Sharon Everley to sign up to help with food.

Save the Dates:

  • Art and Soul *Date Change*: Wednesday October 24, 2-4 pm
  • 27-November 10: Interfaith Shelter Network in the Hall.
  • 28- Nov. 18: Season of Creation: honoring the earth and all life as sacred.
  • 30: Everyday Peacemaking: Compassionate Communication at 10 am and 7 pm.
  • Saturday November 3: YAYA’s Movie Night
  • Sunday November 11: Blessing of Animals in worship.

Ongoing

  • TheBCUCC Theological Book Club will be reading, Days of Awe and Wonder: How to be a Christian in the 21st Century, by Marcus J. Borg.  “God, the sacred, pervades all that is, even though we do not often see it.  But there are moments in which our eyes are opened, and we see the glory.”  Come join us in discovery.  We will meet on October 17th to discuss Chapters 9-16.  Light refreshments are served, and fun and discovery are enjoyed by all.  For more information, call Jim or Karen Hill at 714-693-0261 or email to jandkhill@mac.com.
  • 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 with Karen Hill re-starts Oct. 17. 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.

  • 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!

UCC Creation Justice resources:

 

“The Pollinator” is a blog of the UCC for the sharing of ideas and inspiration. Its focus is the building of a faith-filled and faith-rooted movement for the care of creation.

Sign up to recieve the Pollinator newsletter (http://www.ucc.org/pollinator_sign_up) to get regular updates from our UCC Minister for Environmental Justice, Rev. Brooks Berndt.

 

Congregations are sharing green ideas and forming green teams to make a difference for the environment.  Efforts include plastic-free challenges, personal energy audits and reduction challenges, park and waterway cleanups, and more.  We are excited to formalize our efforts in this area.

 

Check out more UCC resources at: http://www.ucc.org/environmental-ministries.

 

BCUCC News for Sunday, September 30, 2018

News and Upcoming Events

  • Sunday Sept. 30: 10am Worship. Theme: Belonging: Beacons and Fences. Bible Reading: Mark 9:38-41.
  • Oct. 3: Candlelight Taizé Service at 7pm in the Hall. Theme: “The Way.” Song, scripture, prayer and silence.  Invite a friend!
  • Oct. 4: Bible Study is changing to afternoons! 2-3pm.  Join us to explore the Gospel of John. All are welcome. No homework!
  • No Tai Chi the first two weeks of October.
  • Saturday October 6: Apple Pie Day at Pilgrim Pines! Carpool from the church at 8:30am. Begins at 9:30am and ends at 3:00pm. Lunch and activities are included. Cost is $16 for adults and $12 for children 13 and under. Talk to Shannon Clay to register.  Let’s carpool.  You can pre-register at www.pilgrimpinescamp.org.
  • Sunday October 7: Becoming a Creation Justice Church.  Potluck lunch and program making plans to formalize and strengthen our commitment to care for God’s earth and advocate for environmental justice.

Save the Dates:

 

  • Wednesday October 10, 2-4pm: Art and Soul in the Hall.
  • Sunday October 21: Oktoberfest after worship. Beer and Brats!
  • 27-November 10: Interfaith Shelter Network in the Hall.
  • 28- Nov. 18: Season of Creation: honoring the earth and all life as sacred.
  • 30: Everyday Peacemaking: Compassionate Communication at 10 am and 7 pm.
  • Saturday November 3: YAYA’s Movie Night
  • Sunday November 11: Blessing of Animals in worship.

Ongoing

  • TheBCUCC Theological Book Club will be reading, Days of Awe and Wonder: How to be a Christian in the 21st Century, by Marcus J. Borg.  “God, the sacred, pervades all that is, even though we do not often see it.  But there are moments in which our eyes are opened, and we see the glory.”  Come join us in discovery.  We will meet on October 17th to discuss Chapters 9-16.  Light refreshments are served, and fun and discovery are enjoyed by all.  For more information, call Jim or Karen Hill at 714-693-0261 or email to jandkhill@mac.com.

  • Thursdays 6:30- Tai Chi with Karen Hill re-starts Oct. 17. 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.

  • 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!

 

Unvarnished: Studying Defacto Segregation in the Northern and Western United States

The Brea Museum and Historical Society is part of this grant to study the history of local segregation, in response to recent concerns about racism in Brea’s history.  Our church is a part of that history. https://breamuseum.org/unvarnished-studying-defacto-segregation-in-the-northern-and-western-united-states/

 

  1. This week, in partnership with the International Sites of Conscience (www.sitesofconscience.org), the Brea Museum will be facilitating several community open forums to allow residents to express their concerns. Evening groups are at 6:30-8pm Wednesday 10/3 and Thursday 10/4.  A group of BCUCC members will attend the Thursday meeting.  Identical, but smaller, meetings will be held during the day at 11am,12:30 and 3 both days (more chance for questions!)  Pastor Terry will attend the 3pm meeting 10/4.  All meetings are at the museum, 495 S. Brea Blvd.  RSVP for daytime meetings at info@breamuseum.org.

 

  1. Through Oct. 20, the Brea Museum hosts “A Class Action: The Grass Roots Struggle for School Desegregation in California,” an excellent exhibit documenting the landmark victory for school desegregation in Orange County that predates Brown v. Board of Education. Check the museum website for hours.  https://breamuseum.org/a-class-action-exhibit-mendez-v-westminster/

 

  1. Our church is committed to welcoming all, and racial and ethnic justice is a part of that. A Welcoming Diversity Working Group is currently examining what we are doing and how we can improve.  Thanks to Bryan Wake and Kimly Hoang for taking the lead in this effort.  Stay tuned for possible activities to strengthen our welcome.

 

There is no them and us.  There is only us.

– Greg Boyle

Creation Care Note:  Avoid recycling contamination!  Recycling contamination occurs when non-recyclables are placed in the recycle cart.  These items include trash, food waste and liguids.  Much of our recycling is shipped to China!  (Reminding us that recycling is second-best to not generating waste in the first place…)  China has implemented new regulations which reject as trash batches of recyclables containing more than 0.5% contamination.  Avoid all traces of food, liquids, medicines, sharps, or other non-recyclables in your recycling bin!

BCUCC News for Sunday, September 23, 2018

News and Upcoming Events

  • Sunday Sept. 23: 10am Worship. Theme: Power For. Bible Reading: Mark 9:30-37.
  • Tuesday Sept. 25: Everyday Peacemaking: Compassionate Communication. 10-11:30am in the office, or 7-8:30 pm in the hall. This month’s focus: From Anger to Empathy. Concrete steps you can use to transform judgment and build relationship.  Real life examples; beginners and community members welcome.
  • Oct. 3: Candlelight Taizé Service at 7pm in the Hall. Theme: “The Way.” Song, scripture, prayer and silence.  Invite a friend!
  • Sept. 27: Tai Chi in Sanctuary 6:30-7:15pm
  • Saturday October 6: Apple Pie Day at Pilgrim Pines! Carpool from the church at 8:30am. Begins at 9:30am and ends at 3:00pm. Lunch and activities are included. Cost is $16 for adults and $12 for children 13 and under. Talk to Shannon Clay for carpool.  Pre-register at www.pilgrimpinescamp.org.
  • Sunday October 7: Becoming a Creation Justice Church.  Potluck lunch and program exploring how we can formalize and strengthen our commitment to care for God’s earth and advocate for environmental justice.

Save the Dates:

 

  • Wednesday October 9, 2-4pm: Art and Soul in the Hall.
  • Sunday October 21: Oktoberfest after worship.
  • October 27-November 10: Interfaith Shelter Network in the Hall.
  • Saturday November 3: YAYA’s Movie Night
  • Sunday November 11: Blessing of Animals in worship.

Ongoing

  • Bible Study is Thursdays 9:15-10:15 am in the church office. We are beginning the Gospel of John. All are welcome, to discover the intersection of sacred story and modern life with an open mind. No homework.
  • TheBCUCC Theological Book Club will be reading, Days of Awe and Wonder: How to be a Christian in the 21st Century, by Marcus J. Borg.  “God, the sacred, pervades all that is, even though we do not often see it.  But there are moments in which our eyes are opened, and we see the glory.”  Come join us in discovery.  We will meet on October 17th to discuss Chapters 9-16.  Light refreshments are served, and fun and discovery are enjoyed by all.  For more information, call Jim or Karen Hill at 714-693-0261 or email to jandkhill@mac.com.

  • Thursdays 6:30- Tai Chi with Karen Hill continues through September, and re-starts Oct. 17. 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.

  • 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!

HURRICANE RELIEF EFFORTS

The Southern Conference of the United Church of Christ is partnering with other regional churches for hurricane relief.  “We are now compiling all of our inventory within the Conference such as those churches that will provide shelter for displaced victims, distribution centers for collected items, and clergy and laity who will serve as volunteers,” said Conference Minister Ed Davis. ” The First Responders are in place. I continue to keep all of you in my prayers.”

UCC Disaster Ministries, which is also encouraging continued prayer for all the families, individuals, first responders and emergency management staff in the region, has already established a 2018 Hurricane Relief response to expand current capacities and assist through established relief networks and partners in the impacted areas.

“UCC Disaster Ministries for its part continues to collaborate with the conference, offering up financial resources, guidance and expertise,” said Zach Wolgemuth, executive, UCC Disaster Ministries. “Right now the best thing people can do is to continue to be in prayer and give financially. We know the recovery from this storm will be long-term and we are committed to being in it for the long haul.”

“The United Church of Christ’s motto, ‘that they may all be one’ describes the tempo of Florence response in North Carolina just now,” Wallace said. “Neighbor helping neighbor, neighbor praying for neighbor, neighbor rescuing neighbor, neighbor being Jesus to neighbor. May it be so for the long period of recovery. Lord, hear our prayers.”

There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children.

– Nelson Mandela

 

Creation Care Note: Report broken sprinklers when you see them in your neighborhood.  Broken sprinklers often waste thousands of gallons of water for weeks or months before they are noticed by the persons responsible for repair.

 

BCUCC News for Sunday, September 16, 2018

  • Saturday September 15: Please join us for Inner-Coastal Cleanup, 8-10am.
    KEEPING OUR WATERWAYS CLEAN: When the rainy season begins, much of the plastic and other debris in and around our drain channels gets washed out to sea. We can help prevent this. We’ll join others in Brea to help clear trash from the area next to the westernmost parking structure on Birch Street in Downtown Brea. For more information, contact Dennis Arp.
  • Sunday September 16: 10am Worship. Theme: Opening to God’s Possibilities.  Bible Reading: Mark 7:31-37.
  • Monday September 17: Low Impact Cardio 6:45 pm & Martial Arts 7:30 pm in the Hall – free to church members.
  • Tuesday Sept. 18: Church Council meets at 7pm in the Joshua Tree Room.
  • Tuesday Sept. 25: Everyday Peacemaking: Compassionate Communication.10-11:30 am in the office, or 7-8:30 pm in the hall.  This month’s focus: From Anger to EmpathyJesus said “do not judge” and “Love Your Neighbor”; here are concrete steps you can use to transform judgment and build relationship.  Real life examples; beginners and community members welcome.
  • Wed. Oct. 3: Candlelight Taizé Serviceat 7 pm in the Hall. Theme: “The Way.”  Song, scripture, prayer and silence.  Invite a friend!
  • Saturday October 6: Apple Pie Day at Pilgrim Pines Camp! Carpool from the church at 8:30. Begins at 9:30 and ends at 3:00 pm. Lunch and activities are included. Cost is $16 for adults and $12 for children 13 and under. Kids 3 and under are free. Pre-register at www.pilgrimpinescamp.org.
  • Favorite Worship Songs and Hymns: what are yours? Take a sheet fron the basket in the church entry and return it with your favorites.

Ongoing

  • Bible Study is Thursdays 9:15-10:15 am in the church office. We are beginning the Gospel of John. All are welcome, to discover the intersection of sacred story and modern life with an open mind. No homework.
  • The BCUCC Theological Book Club will be reading, Days of Awe and Wonder: How to be a Christian in the 21st Century,by Marcus J. Borg.  “God, the sacred, pervades all that is, even though we do not often see it.  But there are moments in which our eyes are opened, and we see the glory.”  Come join us in discovery.  We will meet Wednesday, Sept. 12th, at 7pm to discuss Chapters 1-8, and on October 17th to discuss Chapters 9-16.  Light refreshments are served, and fun and discovery are enjoyed by all.
  • Thursdays 6:30- Tai Chi with Karen Hill continues through September.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.
  • 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 right side of the church entry.
  • A directory of church members and friends is available by request on paper or as a PDF file. For privacy of participants, we do not leave it in the church entry; sorry for that inconvenience!

When you have exhausted all possibilities, remember this: you haven’t.

– Thomas Edison 

Creation Care Note: How can we protect people from the effects of environmental damage: fires, floods, storms, and pollution-induced illness?  Political advocacy, to mitigate and share the cost of environmental harm, is part of environmental justice.  Low-income people, who may lack safe shelter, savings, insurance, or support networks, are disproportionally affected. They need all our voices to advocate for environmental preservation and disaster relief.

 

BCUCC News for Sunday, September 9, 2018

News and Upcoming Events

  • Sunday September 9: 10am Worship. Theme: (Extra)Ordinary Service.
  • Favorite Worship Songs and Hymns: what are yours? Note them on the sheet provided in your bulletin or in the church entry and put it in the offering basket or in the basket on the entry table.
  • Congratulations to Michelle Serna the preschool director for her new baby boy: Matix Dash Serna, born on 8/30/2018.
  • Monday September 10: NO Low Impact Cardio & Martial Arts class this week.
  • Thursday Sept. 13: Bible Study 9:15am-10:15 am in the Office. NO Tai Chi this week. Worship Committee 6:30 pm in the office; Choir Practice at 7:30.
  • Saturday September 15: Please join us for Inner-Coastal Cleanup, 8-10am.
    KEEPING OUR WATERWAYS CLEAN: When the rainy season begins, much of the plastic and other debris in and around our drain channels gets washed out to sea. We can help prevent this. We’ll join others in Brea to help clear trash from the area next to the westernmost parking structure on Birch Street in Downtown Brea. For more information, contact Dennis Arp: dennisansellarp@gmail.comor 714-747-0206.
  • Oct. 3: Taizé Service at 7pm in the Hall.

Ongoing

  • Bible Study is Thursdays 9:15-10:15 am in the church office. We are beginning the Gospel of John. All are welcome, to discover the intersection of sacred story and modern life with an open mind. No homework.
  • TheBCUCC Theological Book Club will be reading, Days of Awe and Wonder: How to be a Christian in the 21st Century, by Marcus J. Borg.  “God, the sacred, pervades all that is, even though we do not often see it.  But there are moments in which our eyes are opened, and we see the glory.”  Come join us in discovery.  We will meet Wednesday, Sept. 12th, at 7pm to discuss Chapters 1-8, and on October 17th to discuss Chapters 9-16.  Light refreshments are served, and fun and discovery are enjoyed by all.  For more information, call Jim or Karen Hill at 714-693-0261 or email to jandkhill@mac.com.

  • Thursdays 6:30- Tai Chi with Karen Hill – a gentle and meditative movement. We meet in the sanctuary.  Continues through September, except September 13.

  • 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!

 

We are seeking formal recognition as a Creation Justice Church!

Whether it is taking on climate change or addressing the lead poisoning of children, environmental justice ministries could not have a higher purpose or calling than they do now. If the followers of Jesus today care about the air we breathe, the water we drink, or the world in which we live, then environmental justice ministry should undoubtedly be an integral strand in any church’s DNA. The UCC’s Creation Justice Church program aims to help us do just that. Here are some of the tremendous features and benefits of doing the program:

       Congregations collectively discern their high calling to care for creation and seek justice for the oppressed.

       Congregations make a commitment so serious and so sacred that it necessitates talking about God’s covenant with us and with all of creation.

       Congregations not only become recognized as “green.” They become a part of a larger network of churches and a larger movement to change the world.

       Congregations engage in critical thinking about the socioeconomic dimensions of environmental justice such as race, class, and global inequality.

       Congregations foster a deeper sense of connection: connection to God, to each other, and to the world in which we live.

       Congregations unleash their imagination and creativity as a sense of purpose propels them to make a difference

Do ordinary things with extraordinary love.

– Mother Teresa

Creation Care Celebration: Because of our solar panels on the sanctuary roof, BCUCC is a net electricity generator!

BCUCC News for Sunday, September 2, 2018

News and Upcoming Events

  • Saturday Sept. 1: YAYA’s Bubble Run. Some crazy fun! Talk to Bryan Wake for details.
  • Sunday September 2: Potluck after worship. Bring a dish to share and enjoy the company.  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. 

  • Sunday September 2: Theme: Ethics: Fences and Beacons.  Scripture: Mark 10:2-16.
  • Low Impact Cardio class 6:45pm-7:15pm; Martial Arts class 7:30pm-9pm. Wear tennis shoes and comfortable workout clothes! Free to church members!
  • Thursday Sept. 6: Bible Study is Thursdays 9:15-10:15am in the church office. Starting the Gospel of John 6 – a great time to join! All are welcome, to discover the intersection of sacred story and modern life with an open mind
  • Thursday Sept. 6: Tai Chi, 6:30-7:15pm pm in the sanctuary.
  • Thursday Sept. 6: “Art and Soul” 2-4pm in the Hall. Back by popular demand!  A little spirituality, a little conversation, and a lot of space to create; no skill necessary.  Bring your favorite art or craft project, extra supplies if you want to share, or borrow ours.  We will have coloring and doodling as prayer.  Last time we also had origami and collage… join us!
  • Saturday September 15: Please join us for Inner-Coastal Cleanup, 8-10am. KEEPING OUR WATERWAYS CLEAN: When the rainy season begins, much of the plastic and other debris in and around our drain channels gets washed out to sea. We can help prevent this. We’ll join others in Brea to help clear trash from the area next to the westernmost parking structure on Birch Street in Downtown Brea. For more information, contact Dennis Arp: dennisansellarp@gmail.comor 714-747-0206.

Ongoing

  • TheBCUCC Theological Book Club will be reading, Days of Awe and Wonder: How to be a Christian in the 21st Century, by Marcus J. Borg.  “God, the sacred, pervades all that is, even though we do not often see it.  But there are moments in which our eyes are opened, and we see the glory.”  Come join us in discovery.  We will meet Wednesday, Sept. 12th, at 7pm to discuss Chapters 1-8, and on October 17th to discuss Chapters 9-16.  Light refreshments are served, and fun and discovery are enjoyed by all.  For more information, call Jim or Karen Hill at 714-693-0261 or email to jandkhill@mac.com.

  • Thursdays 6:30- Tai Chi with Karen Hill – a gentle and meditative movement. We meet in the sanctuary.  Continues through September, except September 13. 

 

Care Note:  Bill Goetsch has returned home on hospice care.  Please keep him and his daughters in your prayers.

 

Search Committee Progress and Plans

Your search committee has met with conference Pastor Felix Villanueva again regarding the process of reviewing resumes, interviewing potential candidates, and selecting a candidate for church approval. This week we will review 11 potential candidates.  Although confidentiality of these candidates prevents us from revealing any details about them, we do intend to let you know where we are in the process, and the number of candidates under consideration.  For candidates that we believe are a good fit for our church, the process involves a first interview, a second interview, and perhaps a third.  We will then conduct a confidential neutral pulpit visit.  After a successful neutral pulpit visit, we will negotiate a contract and host a candidate weekend where you will have chances to meet, greet, hear preaching, and ask questions with the selected candidate.  Then we will have a congregational meeting without the candidate where you can ask questions of the search committee and vote on our proposed candidate and contract.  As always during this process, we appreciate your prayers for God’s guidance throughout this search.

 

Members of the Search Committee are:

Shannon Clay                Kathryn Kadletz

Randy Fowler                Russell Nowell

Karen Hill                     David This

Georlyn Igma