In anticipation of this June’s Annual Meeting and Conference theme, “The Daring Endeavor of Being Church,” we are calling what used to be workshops “Sharing Endeavors.” We look forward to the information that will be presented by our speakers and shared by others who attend.
In addition, at various times in our business meeting, we will also enjoy hearing examples of "Being Church.” In previous years we were
privileged to hear stories from individuals about the importance of the Congregational Church in their lives. This year we look forward to hearing stories of the exciting and perhaps unusual ways in which God’s Spirit in working within the ministries of specific churches. We hope that these stories will inspire listeners to consider similar ways of “being church” when they return from the AMC.
There is much to be excited about this June’s gathering. I hope that you and your church will make plans to attend.
Unexpected Income
Jodee Lord, Vice-Moderator, Chair, Board of Directors
I would like to share a program that our Interim Pastor, The Rev. Nancy Hazzard introduced to our church.
It is called the Unexpected Income Program. Some unexpected income might be, a monetary birthday gift you received, refund from something you weren’t expecting, money found in your coat pocket. You would donate 10% of the surprise money to your church or
association. Our congregation received a sign-up sheet and a daily prayer. The prayer is to thank God for the abundance and prosperity you have received in life and to prayer for good will to all.
During this seven-week program $1,018.00 has been donated to the church though the generosity of its members. We are a small congregation with big hearts, and we are truly blessed.
Budgeting for Today and Tomorrow
Kevin Gromley, Treasurer, Congregational Foundation Board of Governors
We are approaching the March end of the fiscal year for the NACCC and the Congregational Foundation. Accordingly, the Boards of both organizations are working on budgets for the coming year.
The Foundation’s assets are permanent endowments, gifts from donors intended to support the NACCC for the long term. Consequently, when budgeting the Foundation Board balances the NACCC’s current programs and objectives with the requirement of preserving tomorrow’s endowment value. And, of course, all distributions of Foundation funds are done in accordance with donors’ wishes as established in endowment gift instruments.
We are nearing the end of the budgeting process. The Foundation will be helping to fund some exciting initiatives to support member churches – more to come on this from NACCC leadership.
Listening Tour Update
First Congregational Church of Mukwanago, Wisconsin, #30, has a tradition of including “God Moments” during the service. Members share testimonials of God’s influence on their lives and the lives of others. Following worship, I was treated to an abundant potluck meal and lively dialogue about the Congregational Way.
Month’s end carries me to Washington and Oregon, beginning with a stay in Spokane at the hotel that is the site of the 2024 Annual Meeting and Conference.
Our Contact Information
National Association of Congregational Christian Churches
8473 S. Howell Ave
PO Box 288
Oak Creek, WI 53154
(414) 764-1620 https://www.naccc.org
