November 15, 2023 – The Messenger
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Making Congregationalism Hum!
Rev. Dr. Ashley Cleere, Executive Director
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In our Oak Creek mailbox, we received announcements for five ordinations and installations in September and October. Earlier this month, I preached at the installation of the Rev. Chris Kurtz at the First Congregational Church of Royal Oak, Michigan. Last winter, when Pilgrim Congregational Church in Green Bay, Wisconsin, realized they would ordain two individuals in the same year, the church leaders decided that each ordinand should have their own day.
Years ago, a friend not in the ministry asked me why clergy often travel several hours to attend an event recognizing an acquaintance. “Because our churches are important to one another!” I replied. Voluntary fellowship makes Congregationalism hum. Vicinage councils, installations, and ordinations are a transformative moment in an individual’s vocational journey that embodies our collective commitment to the body of Christ. Thanks be to God!
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Pilgrim Center for Reconciliation
Julie Robie, Missions Coordinator
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We thank God for a successful two-day retreat of displaced pastors in the camp of Rushagara near Goma (capital of North Kivu province in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo). Participants, representing six tribes and eight denominations, were restored and encouraged, and their hearts were rejoicing at the end of the retreat as they confessed the hope of going back to their villages soon. We thank God for the commitment of the Servant Leadership in Team Goma, working together and practicing faithfully the fundamental principles of PCR. They show great expectation of a sustainable ministry in the future, adopting the motto of PCR Congo “One nation, One God, One Faith”. For the first time, pastors from different churches shared the holy communion after washing each other’s feet. It was an amazing experience. Glory be to God!!! Visit the site for more information: www.pilgrimcenter.org
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The NACCC is looking for a full-time Communications Manager to work out of the
Oak Creek, Wisconsin office. In this newly-created position, the Communications Manager will oversee all communications generated by the NACCC and the Congregational Foundation including collaboration with staff and volunteer leadership to plan and implement effective branding strategies, social media/digital presence, fundraising initiatives, and any other type of communication involving member churches of the NACCC and other stakeholders, ministry partners, affiliated organizations, and community outreach efforts.
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November 29, 2023, 3:00-4:00pm CDT
Webinar: A Sacred Trust – Healthy Boundaries; One doesn’t have to be in ministry very long to recognize there are many pit falls that tempt a pastor and leader. We are welcomed into the most sensitive moments of our congregants’ lives. How do we as clergy maintain respect and love for our people without violating trust? This webinar will include a 24-minute video produced by FaithTrust Institute followed by a conversation with participants about their own experiences, and challenges. There is no cost to attend. Please RSVP on our website. Questions? Contact Rev. Gerry Brannon Krupp, Director of Programs
June 22 – 25, 2024
Mark your calendar! The 70th Annual Meeting & Conference of the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches takes place in Spokane, Washington from June 22-25, 2024, hosted by the Pacific Northwest Association. Details to follow!
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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
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