From the Pastor: September 2018

PastorPastor's Blog

Notes from the Pastor

Neighbors in Need

The Bible tells us that when we show empathy or compassion to strangers in our communities, we are representing Christ (Matthew 25:43-45). The Neighbors in Need offering, which we will receive on October 7, 2018, supports projects in United Church of Christ congregations and helping organizations throughout the United States, including the national Justice and Witness Ministries office.

Neighbors in Need also supports our American Indian neighbors in the UCC. One-third of the offering supports the UCC’s Council for American Indian Ministries (CAIM). Historically, forebears of the UCC established churches and worked with Lakota, Dakota, Nakota, Mandan, Hidatsa, Arickara, and Hocak in North and South Dakota, Wisconsin, and northern Nebraska. Today, there are 20 UCC congregations on reservations and one urban, multi-tribal UCC congregation in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

The Neighbors in Need offering is one of the 5 for 5 offerings we participate in each year. St. Philip’s Church is a leader congregation in our church, supporting:

  1. Our Church’s Wider Mission
  2. One Great Hour of Sharing
  3. Strengthen The Church
  4. Neighbors In Need
  5. The Christmas Fund

The success and sustainability of our United Church of Christ relies on these important offering moments. Please give generously.

Please put our next pictorial directory photography sessions on your calendar and plan to participate! On Tuesday and Wednesday, October 9 & 10, 2018, from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., you will have the opportunity to schedule a professional photography session. Each one will be followed by a no-pressure selection process for your free family portrait. Then, a few weeks later, those photographed will receive a free all church photo directory. This will be a helpful resource for members and friends.

Several people have expressed interest in becoming members. A Member Orientation Session will be held after worship one Sunday soon to answer your questions. Attending this session will qualify you, but not obligate you, to join. Sign up by giving your name to Pastor Mike. As always, whether you are a member or not, we are happy for you to be here. Membership is not required. Church activities are open to members and non members.

Rev. Mike