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Cathedral of Hope Advent ads extend extravagant welcome
Written by Anthony Moujaes
December 12, 2013
?
The Our Lady of Guadalupe celebration at Cathedral of Hope UCC in Dallas.
During the season of Advent, television commercials usually advertise Coke, new cars, and the latest gift ideas and where to buy them. You don't often see advertisements for church, though, so the Cathedral of Hope in Dallas, Texas, is changing that this Christmas season.
The Cathedral of Hope is airing three TV ads that extend an extravagant welcome to all people in the Dallas region, inviting them to worship during the holidays.
"We're making a special effort this Advent season to reach as many people as we can in the Dallas-Fort Worth community with a special invitation to join us at Cathedral of Hope for our best Christmas ever," said the Rev. Jim Mituski, interim senior minister of Cathedral of Hope.
Each of the spots is 30 seconds long, with one in Spanish to promote the multicultural celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe on Dec. 11. The 'Our Lady of Guadalupe' ad aired on Galavision — a Spanish television network — while the two other commercials for Cathedral of Hope appear on Lifetime and Logo TV, a network with programming aimed at LGBT people.
"These television spots are targeted to a general audience who speak both Spanish and English and who might not know about Cathedral of Hope," Mituski said. "We strive to be a church who welcomes all, no matter who you are or where you are on life's journey — you are welcome at Cathedral of Hope. To make sure people know about this invitation, we need to meet them where they're at — and that means we must be on television."
So far, the ads are producing results. There were 460 people in attendance, which is twice the number of people compared to last year, on Thursday night for the Lady of Guadalupe service — half of whom were Latino.
"We are so grateful for all those who came to our service on a cold night," the Rev. Alberto Magana, pastor of Congregación Latina, which is part of Cathedral of Hope and performs worship services in Spanish. "We praise God and give [God] the credit. We saw all [God's] people gather in a spirit of unity and purpose -- Latino, Anglo, gay, straight, male, female, young, old in one family — even as we hail from diverse backgrounds."
Jerry King, Cathedral of Hope's director of television and media ministries, said this is the first time the church worked to produce its own television advertisements.
"We decided to try something new with advertising this year," said King. "We've not had the opportunity to promote the growing part of congregation -- the Latino members. Our Lady of Guadalupe has always been a large cross-cultural and multi-cultural celebration."
The congregation previously aired its worship services on a local ABC affiliate until three years ago, but selecting the networks for its commercials offers a larger viewership.
King and the Cathedral's television department filmed their own footage for each of the spots, and edited them down to 30 seconds each – all within a 48-hour window, which is a short window to turn around one 30-second commercial, let alone three.
The commercials, which Cathedral of Hope posted online, began airing Monday, Dec. 9. In the upcoming weeks the congregation hopes to learn how the other messages were received as they are ready to welcome new faces at worship services during the Advent season.
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Nann • a year ago
I appreciate what this church is doing, but: a cathedral is the principal church of a diocese, where the bishop of the diocese is 'seated.' When did the UCC create the office of bishop and begin ordaining them? [That is a rhetorical question. I'm pointing it out because neither cathedral churches nor bishops are in the Reformed tradition of the UCC.]
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Mike Stroud > Nann • a year ago
Technically, the Cathedral is a stand-alone congregation just like all the others in the UCC. "Cathedral" is quite widely used outside Anglican, Catholic, and Orthodox circles these days, often in African-American congregations of Pentecostal persuasion. The Dallas church's use of the word has nothing to do whatsoever with UCC polity; it is no different from a congregation continuing to use "Congregational," for example, in its name. Whether or not it is appropriate is, as you say, a "rhetorical question," one better not explored in a place like this, I think.
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Mendle Adams > Nann • a year ago
actually when the UCC was formed we accepted the bishops of the Hungarian Reform Church into the Calvin Synod, I believe. We have other 'bishops' who have affiliated with us as well.
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Stan Theman • a year ago
Who is the portly woman in the pink mumu in the middle of the picture?
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Yinessa Romero • a year ago
This is so transforming and wonderful, many thanks to Cathedral of Hope for embrancing challenges and bring hope to so many people!!!
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Home > News and Events
Cathedral of Hope Advent ads extend extravagant welcome
Written by Anthony Moujaes
December 12, 2013
?
The Our Lady of Guadalupe celebration at Cathedral of Hope UCC in Dallas.
During the season of Advent, television commercials usually advertise Coke, new cars, and the latest gift ideas and where to buy them. You don't often see advertisements for church, though, so the Cathedral of Hope in Dallas, Texas, is changing that this Christmas season.
The Cathedral of Hope is airing three TV ads that extend an extravagant welcome to all people in the Dallas region, inviting them to worship during the holidays.
"We're making a special effort this Advent season to reach as many people as we can in the Dallas-Fort Worth community with a special invitation to join us at Cathedral of Hope for our best Christmas ever," said the Rev. Jim Mituski, interim senior minister of Cathedral of Hope.
Each of the spots is 30 seconds long, with one in Spanish to promote the multicultural celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe on Dec. 11. The 'Our Lady of Guadalupe' ad aired on Galavision — a Spanish television network — while the two other commercials for Cathedral of Hope appear on Lifetime and Logo TV, a network with programming aimed at LGBT people.
"These television spots are targeted to a general audience who speak both Spanish and English and who might not know about Cathedral of Hope," Mituski said. "We strive to be a church who welcomes all, no matter who you are or where you are on life's journey — you are welcome at Cathedral of Hope. To make sure people know about this invitation, we need to meet them where they're at — and that means we must be on television."
So far, the ads are producing results. There were 460 people in attendance, which is twice the number of people compared to last year, on Thursday night for the Lady of Guadalupe service — half of whom were Latino.
"We are so grateful for all those who came to our service on a cold night," the Rev. Alberto Magana, pastor of Congregación Latina, which is part of Cathedral of Hope and performs worship services in Spanish. "We praise God and give [God] the credit. We saw all [God's] people gather in a spirit of unity and purpose -- Latino, Anglo, gay, straight, male, female, young, old in one family — even as we hail from diverse backgrounds."
Jerry King, Cathedral of Hope's director of television and media ministries, said this is the first time the church worked to produce its own television advertisements.
"We decided to try something new with advertising this year," said King. "We've not had the opportunity to promote the growing part of congregation -- the Latino members. Our Lady of Guadalupe has always been a large cross-cultural and multi-cultural celebration."
The congregation previously aired its worship services on a local ABC affiliate until three years ago, but selecting the networks for its commercials offers a larger viewership.
King and the Cathedral's television department filmed their own footage for each of the spots, and edited them down to 30 seconds each – all within a 48-hour window, which is a short window to turn around one 30-second commercial, let alone three.
The commercials, which Cathedral of Hope posted online, began airing Monday, Dec. 9. In the upcoming weeks the congregation hopes to learn how the other messages were received as they are ready to welcome new faces at worship services during the Advent season.
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UC News Coordinator
700 Prospect Ave.
Cleveland,Ohio 44115
216-736-2211
moujaesa@ucc.org
Ms. Connie N. Larkman
Managing Editor & News Director
700 Prospect Ave.
Cleveland,Ohio 44115
216-736-2196
larkmanc@ucc.org
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Nann • a year ago
I appreciate what this church is doing, but: a cathedral is the principal church of a diocese, where the bishop of the diocese is 'seated.' When did the UCC create the office of bishop and begin ordaining them? [That is a rhetorical question. I'm pointing it out because neither cathedral churches nor bishops are in the Reformed tradition of the UCC.]
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Mike Stroud > Nann • a year ago
Technically, the Cathedral is a stand-alone congregation just like all the others in the UCC. "Cathedral" is quite widely used outside Anglican, Catholic, and Orthodox circles these days, often in African-American congregations of Pentecostal persuasion. The Dallas church's use of the word has nothing to do whatsoever with UCC polity; it is no different from a congregation continuing to use "Congregational," for example, in its name. Whether or not it is appropriate is, as you say, a "rhetorical question," one better not explored in a place like this, I think.
△ ▽
•
Reply
•
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Mendle Adams > Nann • a year ago
actually when the UCC was formed we accepted the bishops of the Hungarian Reform Church into the Calvin Synod, I believe. We have other 'bishops' who have affiliated with us as well.
1 △ ▽
•
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•
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Avatar
Stan Theman • a year ago
Who is the portly woman in the pink mumu in the middle of the picture?
△ ▽
•
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•
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Yinessa Romero • a year ago
This is so transforming and wonderful, many thanks to Cathedral of Hope for embrancing challenges and bring hope to so many people!!!
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•
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•
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Also on The United Church of Christ
Keystone Pipeline decision likely on hold until 2015
1 comment •
20 days ago
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Jeff Fairchild — I am missing how opposing Keystone XL is good stewardship of the land. Based on the extensive 14 volume study produced by President Obama's State …
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6 comments •
13 hours ago
Avatar
llokken — Jay,It is obvious that you are white (privileged) and will never empathize with people who have been unfairly treated for centuries. These are real injustices! While there …
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1 comment •
a month ago
Avatar
greenman615 — Perhaps in addition to sports teams we need a renaming of numerous public iconic sites. For instance, the Fourteen Thousand foot mountain directly west of Denver …
Commentary: First Give Thanks, Then Let’s Change the World
1 comment •
19 days ago
Avatar
Sarah LeBrell — HI! This is Sarah LeBrell from Dearborn, MI - a suburb of Detroit. We are celebrating and thanking God tomorrow. But on a more sombre note. Let's talk about the …
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Senior pastor at Cathedral of Hope stepping down
Written by Anthony Moujaes
April 22, 2013
The senior pastor of one of the United Church of Christ's largest congregations is stepping away from her position of leadership after nearly a decade of service to those who joined her in worship. The Rev. Jo Hudson, grateful for the opportunity to minister at the Cathedral of Hope in Dallas, a congregation of more than 4,200 members with a primary outreach to LGBT persons, has decided the time has arrived for her to move on.
"After prayerful consideration and conversations with colleagues and friends, some of whom are here today, and visiting with my soon-to-be 91-year-old dad, I am announcing today my resignation as senior pastor of the Cathedral of Hope," Hudson announced on Sunday. "I am asking that you, the people of Cathedral of Hope who have elected me, will accept my resignation to be effective on or before Pentecost Sunday, May 19."
A native Texan, Hudson was called by the Cathedral of Hope after pastoring Friends Congregational Church UCC in College Station, Texas, and elected to serve as senior pastor in February 2005. The congregation, in searching for a denomination that aligned with its ideals, joined the UCC in 2006.
"I have prayed for this church just about every day since I became pastor here, but I have prayed for this church for its health, for its life, for its leaders and I will continue to pray as I make this transition," Hudson added. "If you are able, I humbly request your prayers for me, for Stephanie, for Sydney as we transition, too, to a new place in our lives."
This past Sunday – the third in April – was Hudson's final day in the pulpit as she plans to work with the staff and board members of Cathedral of Hope to begin the transition to a new senior pastor. Somewhat fittingly, Hudson delivered her first sermon to the congregation nine years ago – on the third Sunday of April in 2004.
"In these nine years with you, I have sought to serve God and this church faithfully," she told congregation members. "This is all about an opportunity to move forward and into the future both for this church and for me and my family. I love you. I will always love this church."
The Rev. J. Bennett Guess, the UCC's executive minster of Local Church Ministries, who refers to Hudson as both friend and colleague, wishes her well in the future.
"Jo Hudson is not only my good friend, but one of the finest, most gifted pastors I know," he said. "On several occasions over the past nine years, I have had the opportunity to visit the Cathedral of Hope and witness her excellent preaching and pastoral leadership, and her exuberant, warm, out-going personality. Her influence has extended far beyond Dallas, but nationally and globally as well, as a respected leader in both the LGBT and faith communities."
Hudson has helped plant two new parish churches, Cathedral of Hope-Houston and Cathedral of Hope-MidCities. Cathedral of Hope-Houston was recently welcomed as a new congregation in the South Central Conference.
"Certainly, being the senior pastor of the Cathedral of Hope is demanding and exhausting work," Guess added. "I wish Jo all the best, and lots of rest, as she discerns next steps in her ministry."
A native Texan, Hudson was ordained into the UCC in 1997, and has since served the church in numerous settings. She has been the president of the South Central Conference, a member of the board of UCC's Justice and Witness Ministries and the Pension Boards. She also serves on the board of Eden Theological Seminary in St. Louis. This summer, Hudson will be one of the featured preachers at the UCC General Synod 2013 in Long Beach, Calif.
Hudson had a few outgoing words for her congregations on Sunday as she urged them to be present next week at worship, since that is the best way to honor her and God. "Keep being this church," she said. "Keep being a church that changes the lives of people who need hope more than anything else."
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700 Prospect Ave.
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Rev JF Hudson • 2 years ago
Great job Rev. Hudson but I wish all UCC pastors would garner such publicity upon their retirement.
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Stephen Wayles • 2 years ago
All the Very Best to you, Jo. I loved the ministry, too... and just want you to know that Retirement Rocks, too!!
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Michael Hilliard • 2 years ago
Go with God. May he bless and protect you and your family.
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Kelly Brill, Avon Lake UCC • 2 years ago
Jo, may God bless you in this time of transition.
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Home > News and Events
Senior pastor at Cathedral of Hope stepping down
Written by Anthony Moujaes
April 22, 2013
The senior pastor of one of the United Church of Christ's largest congregations is stepping away from her position of leadership after nearly a decade of service to those who joined her in worship. The Rev. Jo Hudson, grateful for the opportunity to minister at the Cathedral of Hope in Dallas, a congregation of more than 4,200 members with a primary outreach to LGBT persons, has decided the time has arrived for her to move on.
"After prayerful consideration and conversations with colleagues and friends, some of whom are here today, and visiting with my soon-to-be 91-year-old dad, I am announcing today my resignation as senior pastor of the Cathedral of Hope," Hudson announced on Sunday. "I am asking that you, the people of Cathedral of Hope who have elected me, will accept my resignation to be effective on or before Pentecost Sunday, May 19."
A native Texan, Hudson was called by the Cathedral of Hope after pastoring Friends Congregational Church UCC in College Station, Texas, and elected to serve as senior pastor in February 2005. The congregation, in searching for a denomination that aligned with its ideals, joined the UCC in 2006.
"I have prayed for this church just about every day since I became pastor here, but I have prayed for this church for its health, for its life, for its leaders and I will continue to pray as I make this transition," Hudson added. "If you are able, I humbly request your prayers for me, for Stephanie, for Sydney as we transition, too, to a new place in our lives."
This past Sunday – the third in April – was Hudson's final day in the pulpit as she plans to work with the staff and board members of Cathedral of Hope to begin the transition to a new senior pastor. Somewhat fittingly, Hudson delivered her first sermon to the congregation nine years ago – on the third Sunday of April in 2004.
"In these nine years with you, I have sought to serve God and this church faithfully," she told congregation members. "This is all about an opportunity to move forward and into the future both for this church and for me and my family. I love you. I will always love this church."
The Rev. J. Bennett Guess, the UCC's executive minster of Local Church Ministries, who refers to Hudson as both friend and colleague, wishes her well in the future.
"Jo Hudson is not only my good friend, but one of the finest, most gifted pastors I know," he said. "On several occasions over the past nine years, I have had the opportunity to visit the Cathedral of Hope and witness her excellent preaching and pastoral leadership, and her exuberant, warm, out-going personality. Her influence has extended far beyond Dallas, but nationally and globally as well, as a respected leader in both the LGBT and faith communities."
Hudson has helped plant two new parish churches, Cathedral of Hope-Houston and Cathedral of Hope-MidCities. Cathedral of Hope-Houston was recently welcomed as a new congregation in the South Central Conference.
"Certainly, being the senior pastor of the Cathedral of Hope is demanding and exhausting work," Guess added. "I wish Jo all the best, and lots of rest, as she discerns next steps in her ministry."
A native Texan, Hudson was ordained into the UCC in 1997, and has since served the church in numerous settings. She has been the president of the South Central Conference, a member of the board of UCC's Justice and Witness Ministries and the Pension Boards. She also serves on the board of Eden Theological Seminary in St. Louis. This summer, Hudson will be one of the featured preachers at the UCC General Synod 2013 in Long Beach, Calif.
Hudson had a few outgoing words for her congregations on Sunday as she urged them to be present next week at worship, since that is the best way to honor her and God. "Keep being this church," she said. "Keep being a church that changes the lives of people who need hope more than anything else."
SECTION MENU
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Mr. Anthony Moujaes
UC News Coordinator
700 Prospect Ave.
Cleveland,Ohio 44115
216-736-2211
moujaesa@ucc.org
Ms. Connie N. Larkman
Managing Editor & News Director
700 Prospect Ave.
Cleveland,Ohio 44115
216-736-2196
larkmanc@ucc.org
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Rev JF Hudson • 2 years ago
Great job Rev. Hudson but I wish all UCC pastors would garner such publicity upon their retirement.
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Stephen Wayles • 2 years ago
All the Very Best to you, Jo. I loved the ministry, too... and just want you to know that Retirement Rocks, too!!
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Michael Hilliard • 2 years ago
Go with God. May he bless and protect you and your family.
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Kelly Brill, Avon Lake UCC • 2 years ago
Jo, may God bless you in this time of transition.
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Commentary: Light a Candle for Justice
2 comments •
13 days ago
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Rev. Churchmouse — Light candle for environmental justice?!! Good Grief!I guess it's safer than lighting up a town for racial justice, but still...ABC 15 Reports"According to the …
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13 hours ago
Avatar
llokken — Jay,It is obvious that you are white (privileged) and will never empathize with people who have been unfairly treated for centuries. These are real injustices! While there …
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UCC regional association recommends standing for Cathedral of Hope-Houston
Written by Anthony Moujaes
February 20, 2013
?
The Rev. Lynette Ross, preaching at Cathedral of Hope-Houston.
Cathedral of Hope-Houston (CoHH) started as a satellite congregation of one of the world's largest inclusive congregations.But in the nearly five years since it was planted by Cathedral of Hope in Dallas, CoHH has grown into its own, fueled by a passion for community and diversity. That is the reason the Houston Association of the UCC's South Central Conference is recommending full standing for Cathedral of Hope UCC-Houston. A decision is expected at the April meeting.
"Their pastor, Lynette Ross, is a good, strong and faithful pastor," said the Rev. Douglas Anders, South Central Conference Minister. "She is one of the reasons why this church is so ready to become UCC, because she has made UCC identity, awareness and connection a priority for this church.
"I am convinced with this confirmation that we in this Conference are headed in the right direction, even if it feels like at times small steps."
The Rev. Lynette Ross, a second-career pastor, spent more than 30 years in corporate management in the home health care, systems implementation, and training development industries. She has been a Houston resident for the last 20 years.
"I have been blessed to be a part of CoHH since its beginning; as a member of the congregation, seminarian, student intern, and now as pastor," Ross writes on the congregation's website. The first worship service was in January 2009.
The Rev. Jo Hudson, who has pastored Cathedral of Hope since 2004 and helped plant the new church start in Houston in 2008, said she felt like Houston was a city that was welcoming of LGBT people, and was ready for a space that embraced a wide welcome for all.
"Lots of churches welcomed LGBT people [in Houston], but there wasn't one that was predominantly gay and lesbian people," Hudson said.
Getting a foothold in Houston began when some members of Cathedral of Hope-Dallas relocated to the area. Hudson felt because of the large membership in Dallas, the congregation had an obligation to start a sister church in the Houston area.
"I wasn't surprised [by the news]. I have calls with the pastor there about every other week and we stay in constant contact," Hudson said. "I was a little surprised with how quickly the vote took place to receive them into standing, and I'm very pleased the Association saw the value of that congregation."
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eriknokc • 2 years ago
As a member of Cathedral of Hope OKC, I congratulate CoH-Houston. Thirty is a great number. Many people compare us to our mother church, but they forget that they have been around for 42 years and we are in our infancy. We have a wonderful heritage to build from and to carry on. Keep on spreading that message of extravagant grace, radical inclusion and relentless compassion!
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Gene • 2 years ago
This so called church has an average weekly attendance of a whopping 30 people. Wow! Five years and they have 30 in attendance on Sunday. Are you kidding? The United Church of Christ is a dying denomination as is the Cathedral of Hope. Rev. Anders is a spineless weasel who does what Jo Hudson tell him to.
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Pam > Gene • 2 years ago
Thirty sounds great to me in a place like Houston. Remember Jesus
started with 12 plus some women. Congratulations to COH and blessings
on your important ministry in that City. Rev. Pam Webb, Retired Transitional Interim
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UCCSteve • 2 years ago
Excellent News...and WELCOME to the UCC!
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Home > News and Events
UCC regional association recommends standing for Cathedral of Hope-Houston
Written by Anthony Moujaes
February 20, 2013
?
The Rev. Lynette Ross, preaching at Cathedral of Hope-Houston.
Cathedral of Hope-Houston (CoHH) started as a satellite congregation of one of the world's largest inclusive congregations.But in the nearly five years since it was planted by Cathedral of Hope in Dallas, CoHH has grown into its own, fueled by a passion for community and diversity. That is the reason the Houston Association of the UCC's South Central Conference is recommending full standing for Cathedral of Hope UCC-Houston. A decision is expected at the April meeting.
"Their pastor, Lynette Ross, is a good, strong and faithful pastor," said the Rev. Douglas Anders, South Central Conference Minister. "She is one of the reasons why this church is so ready to become UCC, because she has made UCC identity, awareness and connection a priority for this church.
"I am convinced with this confirmation that we in this Conference are headed in the right direction, even if it feels like at times small steps."
The Rev. Lynette Ross, a second-career pastor, spent more than 30 years in corporate management in the home health care, systems implementation, and training development industries. She has been a Houston resident for the last 20 years.
"I have been blessed to be a part of CoHH since its beginning; as a member of the congregation, seminarian, student intern, and now as pastor," Ross writes on the congregation's website. The first worship service was in January 2009.
The Rev. Jo Hudson, who has pastored Cathedral of Hope since 2004 and helped plant the new church start in Houston in 2008, said she felt like Houston was a city that was welcoming of LGBT people, and was ready for a space that embraced a wide welcome for all.
"Lots of churches welcomed LGBT people [in Houston], but there wasn't one that was predominantly gay and lesbian people," Hudson said.
Getting a foothold in Houston began when some members of Cathedral of Hope-Dallas relocated to the area. Hudson felt because of the large membership in Dallas, the congregation had an obligation to start a sister church in the Houston area.
"I wasn't surprised [by the news]. I have calls with the pastor there about every other week and we stay in constant contact," Hudson said. "I was a little surprised with how quickly the vote took place to receive them into standing, and I'm very pleased the Association saw the value of that congregation."
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Ms. Connie N. Larkman
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Cleveland,Ohio 44115
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larkmanc@ucc.org
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eriknokc • 2 years ago
As a member of Cathedral of Hope OKC, I congratulate CoH-Houston. Thirty is a great number. Many people compare us to our mother church, but they forget that they have been around for 42 years and we are in our infancy. We have a wonderful heritage to build from and to carry on. Keep on spreading that message of extravagant grace, radical inclusion and relentless compassion!
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Gene • 2 years ago
This so called church has an average weekly attendance of a whopping 30 people. Wow! Five years and they have 30 in attendance on Sunday. Are you kidding? The United Church of Christ is a dying denomination as is the Cathedral of Hope. Rev. Anders is a spineless weasel who does what Jo Hudson tell him to.
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Pam > Gene • 2 years ago
Thirty sounds great to me in a place like Houston. Remember Jesus
started with 12 plus some women. Congratulations to COH and blessings
on your important ministry in that City. Rev. Pam Webb, Retired Transitional Interim
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UCCSteve • 2 years ago
Excellent News...and WELCOME to the UCC!
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Home > 50 > Resources
Responses
UCC congregations shine!
Discover the vital ministries and prayerful hopes of United Church of Christ congregations across the denomination. How are UCC churches living out our historic commitments? What are the hopes and prayers of congregations for the broader UCC's future? Please click below to view responses.
We are a united and uniting church
What UCC congregations are doing
What UCC congregations hope for the future
We are a multiracial and multicultural church
What UCC congregations are doing
What UCC congregations hope for the future
We are a church accessible to all
What UCC congregations are doing
What UCC congregations hope for the future
We are an open and affirming church
What UCC congregations are doing
What UCC congregations hope for the future
We are a peace with justice church
What UCC congregations are doing
What UCC congregations hope for the future
Responses
We are a united and uniting church
What UCC congregations are doing
La Mesa, CA: United Church of Christ of La Mesa
United Church of Christ of La Mesa is active in the San Diego Ecumenical Council and in planning joint programs with other churches (an example is the 2007 Lenten Series conducted in conjunction with "East County Progressive Clergy Network," an inter-denominational group). The church also sponsors and supports other long term interfaith projects, among them the East County Interfaith Shelter for the homeless and the Crisis House, a service which offers counseling services to abused children. We see a special need to reach out and "to unite" youth and young families, especially those currently unchurched. Desiring to be the same loving, accepting congregation that we are for years to come, we want to share the love and justice that we live with our children and grandchildren and with the wider community. UCCLM has so much to offer to those who do not have a church home and we believe they have much to offer us in continuity, in sharing, in "Doing together what we can not do alone." Working toward this goal, we are currently planning a contemporary worship service and taking steps to implement those plans in the near future.
Norton, OH: Grace UCC of Loyal Oak
Our church reaches out to the community and opens its doors to all.
San Diego, CA: Mission Hills UCC
We formally adopted "United Church of Christ" as the official name of our church several years ago and have worked diligently to embrace our UCC identity through campaigns like "God is Still Speaking," becoming a "5 for 5" church, and using the UCC logo on all print media and on our website. While honoring our Congregational heritage, we are unashamedly a congregation of the United Church of Christ.
Kirkland, WA: Kirkland Congregational UCC
We have four congregations of various denominations worshiping in our church every week. We have several local service agencies meeting in our church evenings in our church. Our church sponsored "Tent City" finding space for the homeless.
Dallas, TX: Central Congregational UCC
Everyone was invited to participate in writing our vision statement and a majority of the congregation responded.
Exeter, NH: Congregational Church of Exeter UCC
Our church is Open and Affirming, became so in 1995. We have a sister church in Zimbabwe and bring members from the church here each year. Twice, people from our church have gone there. Our church mission trip this year is to Biloxi MS. We have had a six week worship series on other faiths that included music and hymns, sermons, bulletin inserts with take-home information. We are fully accessible with ramp, elevator, special bathroom, hearing devices, and large-print bulletins. We've had jazz, guitar, drums, and gospel in worship, have a praise choir and a classical choir.
Vernon, CT: First Congregational Church of Vernon
First Congregational Church of Vernon lives out the commitment to be a united and united church. We are an active and vital part of our diverse faith community in Vernon and we participate in numerous interfaith, ecumenical and community worship and program experiences which draw people together around our common belief in God, our desire to strengthen the community and to be in support of one another.
We team up with 3 other churches to run the town-wide week-long Vacation Bible School program which serves more than 110 children. The clergy, volunteers, aids and families come from the UCC, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the United Methodist Church and the Roman Catholic Church. We participate in the Interfaith Thanksgiving Eve Service, the Ecumenical Holy Thursday Service and the Interfaith Service of Remembrance, as well. The Interfaith services include those from Episcopal, Jewish, Sikh and Muslim traditions as well as those from neighboring towns. At each of these services our unity and our diversity are lifted up as gifts to be embraced.
Additionally, when our pastors hold New Member orientation sessions, the history of our local church and of our denomination are shared, and each new member is given the opportunity to tell where they’ve come from on the faith journey and what’s brought them to FCCV. As a congregation we value the importance of sharing our stories, gleaning wisdom from one another’s experiences, and gaining strength from each one’s presence at the table. As a local congregation we mirror what we value as a denomination – our united and uniting way.
Albuquerque, NM: Church of the Good Shepherd UCC
We are an Open and Affirming congregation with plans beginning to develop to become accessible to all. We tell the story again and again and use the image of a circle of belonging with an open door. Our pastor chairs the NM Council of Churches, and we participate in many hunger action projects. Last year we collected 7500 cans of tomatoes in one month for the local food bank. This year the goal will be 10,000. In New Mexico, tomatoes are a staple!
College Station, TX: Friends Congregational UCC
We are an oasis to our community, as we reside in a highly conservative, relatively uniform town. We are an open and affirming congregation that is devoted to the progressive authenticity of Jesus' teachings. Our vision is to offer God's extravagant welcome to all, and our mission is to seek a deeper spirituality, and to transform God's world one act of love at a time.
Dallas, TX: Cathedral of Hope
Cathedral of Hope is an ecumenical body under one roof. Individuals from the Roman Catholic, Buddhist, Protestant, and other faith traditions gather to lift one another up in the spirit of community and the spirit of God's divine love. It is clear that ours is a church of extravagant welcome to all people, no matter where they are on life's journey.
The Dalles, OR: United Church of Christ Congregational
We have a potluck and movie the first Friday of the month that is about an issue that affects the whole community. This is open to the public. We unite with people who are not members but come to the services and Sunday School. We participate in open exchanges with other local churches. We also express being united by being open and affirming, allowing groups to use our building and not pressuring them to join our church. We make a special effort for our Lenten studies to be open to the public.
Philadelphia, PA: Old First Reformed UCC
Our congregation actively participates in the functions of the Philadelphia Association and the Pennsylvania Southeast Conference of the United Church of Christ, and members of our congregation have attended General Synod. In addition, we are active in the Old Philadelphia Congregations, an interdenominational, interfaith ministerium composed of the clergy of the churches in Old City Philadelphia. We provide financial support to the Metropolitan Christian Council of Philadelphia, and one of our clergy members had served until his retirement as Executive Director of that body.
We have a partner church relationship with an EKU congregation in Bielefeld, Germany, and through the efforts of one of our clergy members, are in the process of forming a partnership with two congregations in Cuba. On a day-to-day basis, perhaps the most tangible way in which we live out this commitment is through our community ministries.
We partner, on an interdenominational, interfaith basis with numerous city and suburban congregations in providing direct assistance and social justice advocacy for the poor and vulnerable of Philadelphia. Opportunities for future growth would include expanding our partnership network and seeking opportunities to share worship facilities when desirable. In the Philadelphia area, such a network could cooperate to provide for greater efficiency of food distribution, so that donated food is not wasted, but reaches those in need.
Arlington Heights, IL: Congregational UCC
Our congregation is involved in united and uniting in the following ways:
• Discussion of becoming ONA
• Participation in ecumenical studies since the Ecumenical Institute in 1965
• Field trips to churches we supported in inner city of Chicago
• Our congregation’s membership is made up of persons from all kinds of faith background
• The work of our social action committee which includes: an inter-racial pulpit exchange; sponsorship of Cuban and Vietnamese refugees; summer vacation Bible camp open to everyone (had 26 different churches represented last year)
• Our OCWM budget includes diverse social ministries as well as UCC
• Our youth group is made of several churches together from the northwest suburbs of Chicago
San Diego, CA: Mission Hills UCC
We hope to participate in ecumenical efforts for justice and peace particularly regarding the war in Iraq, immigration issues, affordable housing and health care for all. We will continue to participate in ecumenical worship in our community.
Kirkland, WA: Kirkland Congregational UCC
For the past 12 years, we have been a part of an ecumenical sharing of services and meetings.
Dallas, TX: Central Congregational UCC
We believe the UCC looks at what binds us as human beings and as people of God. These qualities that religions have in common include: forgiveness, justice, peace. We can be a shining example.
Exeter, NH: Congregational Church of Exeter UCC
We hope the UCC will work out with Episcopalians the mutual regard the UCC has with Lutherans. Our good neighbors here are Episcopalians, who join us in social commitments, etc. But we are separated by the lack of ability to join in liturgies. In New England there aren't a lot of Lutherans, and for Congregationalists, the cradle was Episcopalian, so this re-uniting means much more than with Lutherans. The bent is so very far towards E&R traditions, and ignores Congregational roots. Fervent wish that you correct this. Congregationalists also come from same cradle as Quakers, how about movement there? We have a shared history of abolition, and at times, peace.
Vernon, CT: First Congregational Church of Vernon
It is our hope that there is a future for ecumenical and interfaith relations. We hope that there remains a middle ground, a meeting place, a welcoming forum for people, denominations, traditions and religions to meet and share what we hold in common – and to learn about what is unique for each of us. Can we do this without rigid walls, name calling, going to war? As Christians, is it possible to still remain faithful to our call, and yet celebrate how the Divine One moves among all the peoples of the earth in differing ways? In our own community we find great inspiration and hope when we get together ecumenically and on an interfaith basis; our hope is for renewed energy and focus for this kind of work and worship at the national setting.
Seattle, WA: Fauntleroy Church UCC
We hope that the national church can continue to work ecumenically with others through Church World Service (CSW) and perhaps other venues. Ecumenical conversations need to continue and we need to be sensitive listeners to the needs of others – as well as to witness to our own strengths. We believe denominational alignments are shifting these days and we need to be open to new possible configurations.
West Point, NE: Trinity UCC
We have opened our door to a Hispanic congregation to share use our building.
North Fork, CA: Grace Community UCC
We engage in outreach to the American Indian population in our community. We also welcome people of all religious backgrounds. Our congregation is composed of many religious faiths.
What UCC congregations hope for the future
La Mesa, CA: United Church of Christ of La Mesa
With our commitment to being united and uniting, we believe we need, to quote Romans, to "be inventive in hospitality." When people visit us, they like us. Many stay. We have talked about the need for growth for a long time and have started down that path with our new Director of Youth, Young Families Christian Education, but lots more needs to be done. We need to think "outside the box," strategically, to let the people of our community know we are here and that they are welcome and needed. This same "outside the box" thinking will, we believe, guide us in establishing and participating in additional ecumenical programs.
Norton, OH: Grace UCC of Loyal Oak
That our society would become more open and affirming and less sanctimonious and judgmental.
College Station, TX: Friends Congregational UCC
We have a relationship with the Institute for Interfaith Dialog in College Station, which is primarily founded on the intent to remove hateful stereotypes of Muslim people post-9/11 in our culture. This is one example of the intentional hope that our congregation lives into, as we seek to learn more about ourselves by learning more about others in the richness of God's diverse world. We stand by the African Proverb, in this respect, that boasts, "If you want to go quick, go alone. If you want to go far, go together."
Dallas, TX: Cathedral of Hope
We hope the world will come and see that it is possible to be ecumenical and still honor the teachings of Jesus and the Word of God. For the world to see that it is possible for us to truly live as one.
The Dalles, OR: United Church of Christ Congregational
We hope the denomination will continue discussions about “united and uniting.” We desire opportunities to hear from missionaries and participate in the Heifer Project. We encourage members of our church to visit other churches and report back. Let’s stay involved.
Philadelphia, PA: Old First Reformed UCC
By partnering with other settings of the UCC, and with congregations of other denominations and other faiths, we can serve God and our neighbor in acts of community service and social justice advocacy, in ways far beyond what any one congregation can accomplish. Together we testify that we can cooperate across the boundaries of divergent faith traditions and understandings of God.
Arlington Heights, IL: Congregational UCC
Our congregation hopes that the wider UCC will:
• Reach a spirit of one-ness (Our own church should take a lead among others in our own community in joining together in such a spirit.)
• Reach out to 20-something
• Start a U-2 ministry on a website aimed at young adults in their 20's
West Point, NE: Trinity UCC
We continue to emphasize the oneness in Christ. We lift up the denomination by putting Christ and the people of the church first.
North Fork, CA: Grace Community UCC
We would like to be able to work with the other churches in our town so that we could help more. Our denominational stance on some issues makes us seem untouchable to them.
We are a multiracial and multicultural church
What UCC congregations are doing
La Mesa, CA: United Church of Christ of La Mesa
Although La Mesa's congregation reflects the basically Caucasian demographics of its location, its membership and its leadership include people of various ethnicities. Perhaps the best expression of that inclusiveness is its Puerto Rican pastor. Recent months have seen a steady move toward increased diversity, perhaps most noticeably in the Sunday school. Both our pastor and our Director of Youth, Young Families and Christian Education speak Spanish, as do many of our members – an ability especially valuable in our work with and support of Casa Hogar 29, an orphanage in San Antonio de las Minas, Baja California. Another special event along these lines is our youth group's upcoming mission trip to Puerto Rico.
San Diego, CA: Mission Hills UCC
We sponsor creative multicultural programs including singing groups from the Dominican Republic. Mission Hills experiments with worship that embraces cultures other than our majority Anglo culture.
Kirkland, WA: Kirkland Congregational UCC
We have been an Open and Affirming church for several years and have followed through with our commitment by inviting minorities to come to our church.
Dallas, TX: Central Congregational UCC
We welcome all races into our church. Our Youth Mission trips to Appalachia last summer and God's Katrina Kitchen this summer is supported by members both financially and physically.
Exeter, NH: Congregational Church of Exeter UCC
NH is pretty much a white state, so becoming multi-racial is tough. But there are Buddhist, Jewish, and Hindu temples near us. We take our confirmands to visit the temples. And we are, as a congregation, learning more about other faiths. Already there have been a couple of weddings between someone who grew up in our church and a Hindu or Buddhist from another nation. Also, our Mission Committee is a sponsor for Fresh Air, a program in which families take an inner city New York City child for a few weeks in the summer.
Seattle, WA: Fauntleroy Church UCC
We have developed partnership relations with congregations in Seoul, South Korea (actively participating in annual exchanges), and with a little community in the Oaxaca province of Mexico (where we will be sending a second mission group this summer).
Albuquerque, NM: Church of the Good Shepherd UCC
New Mexico is a growing and changing landscape of opportunities. We are a third Anglo, a third Native American, and a third Hispanic/Mexican American. Our congregation is reflective of our community so much that we hardly notice.
Norton, OH: Grace UCC of Loyal Oak
Our location has impeded our ability to draw people of other races and cultures due to its largely homogenized condition. However, we have often had visitors from other areas and have always welcomed them warmly.
College Station, TX: Friends Congregational UCC
We share a diverse mix of families in our flock that come together because of the love that is evident within our church walls. That same love resonates throughout our community. The word is out there that people can be family with and for one another in our church. We are delighted to have a group of families who have adopted Korean and Chinese children, single-parent families, same-sex parent families, interracial families and our intergenerational family of Friends.
Dallas, TX: Cathedral of Hope
Cathedral of Hope has outreach ministries to African American and Hispanic communities. ALL are welcome. With great vision for its future, those who helped to create the Cathedral in its present form included stained glass windows that incorporate "Hope" in English and Spanish. This past Sunday, the Hispanic ministry added a native Spanish-speaking minister. We also have a deaf ministry.
The Dalles, OR: United Church of Christ Congregational
We express our multiracial and multicultural through being open and affirming, supporting members of other races, our Taize services, and our Sunday school for children.
Philadelphia, PA: Old First Reformed UCC
As a downtown urban congregation, our congregation's membership and lay leadership is multiracial and multicultural. In particular, in recent years we have welcomed immigrants from Liberia and Nigeria, who have gone on to take leadership roles in our congregation. In worship, we have attempted to incorporate music reflecting the racial and cultural diversity of our congregation. We hope our congregation's membership will continue to become more reflective of our city's demographics. One "growing edge" for our congregation would be greater inclusion in worship across economic lines; for example, greater opportunities for those served by our homeless shelter and cupboard ministries to participate in leading worship. Another area for future growth would be new opportunities for worship participation of children of all races and cultures.
West Point, NE: Trinity UCC
Although we share our building with a Hispanic congregation, at this time we do not actually have multiracial or multiracial members.
North Fork, CA: Grace Community UCC
Through Christian Education, our mission focuses on American Indian children. We transport the children to church on Sunday and provide Sunday School as well as meals. We also have a Vacation Bible School in the summer and field trips through out the year.
What UCC congregations hope for the future
La Mesa, CA: United Church of Christ of La Mesa
Outreach plans include translating our visitors' brochures and information packets into Spanish (other languages to follow) and submitting information about our activities to Spanish language publications. Flyers and posters in Spanish are also in the planning stage.
San Diego, CA: Mission Hills UCC
We hope that we might be more involved in the Hispanic community in our area and be more welcoming in our worship to other cultures.
Kirkland, WA: Kirkland Congregational UCC
I think we have made some progress, but could do better.
Dallas, TX: Central Congregational UCC
The youth are an important and vital part of our future. They are living in a multicultural world and adults can learn from them to look beyond race.
Exeter, NH: Congregational Church of Exeter UCC
Our main hope is that the UCC will grow to be more spiritually Christian, more interested in and educated about the traditions of prayer and peacefulness that exist in Christianity. We pray that the UCC will alter its model of being multiracial and justice-seeking from a confrontational model to a model of inner strength and clarity of soul – born of prayer and light and love. This means moving from demanding justice to becoming in ourselves the justice that we seek.
Norton, OH: Grace UCC of Loyal Oak
We hope that our denomination may grow stronger and have influence over the present day's trend toward inhibition and repression.
College Station, TX: Friends Congregational UCC
Our church is a pretty accurate microcosm of the nature of religion in our country at the turn of the century: less denominationalism and more ecumenism. To that degree, I pray that the diversity that we relish at Friends would be embraced in our congregations nationwide for the sake of so many coming together in ways that do not uplift only one group of people or one sect of society in thankful response to what God is doing in our churches and in our world in the name of that Divine love.
Dallas, TX: Cathedral of Hope
We hope the UCC will reach out to the various cultures and peoples within our community and our world to say there is a place for you in our family and in the family of God.
The Dalles, OR: United Church of Christ Congregational
We hope our denomination will continue to support issues that are multiracial and multicultural.
Philadelphia, PA: Old First Reformed UCC
Our diverse membership can testify as to how we've experienced God's love and grace – along with the challenges of Christian discipleship – in a wide variety of settings and circumstances, far beyond what could be experienced in a less diverse congregation. We have been blessed by our experiencing a wide range of worship styles. We are constantly challenged to rethink our faith journeys in light of the varied life experiences of fellow congregants.
West Point, NE: Trinity UCC
Our town is multicultural and multiracial and will continue to reach out and hope for greater diversity in our congregation.
North Fork, CA: Grace Community UCC
Our area is primarily made up of Caucasian people and a large number are retired. We also have a large American Indian population. We have some lesbian women in our church, but not aware of any other racial or cultural people.
We are a church accessible to all
What UCC congregations are doing
La Mesa, CA: United Church of Christ of La Mesa
Access to almost all areas of the church is easy for those in wheelchairs or requiring walkers and our people are ever ready to offer assistance, where needed. The entries to the church, sanctuary, fellowship hall, and restrooms are level and ramps lead to the Christian Education rooms, AA Meeting Room, Youth Room and kitchen. Designated space for wheelchairs and chairs for those with wheelchair-bound worshipers is provided at all services. Special earphones (part of our new sound system) for the hard of hearing are available and we have a member who knows Sign Language and is available to translate the service upon request. The men's women's and "family" restrooms are equipped with infant changing tables.
San Diego, CA: Mission Hills UCC
We made our restrooms accessible and the entire first floor - including the chancel accessible. All areas of our sanctuary are accessible. We have sponsored a variety of forums on this topic.
Kirkland, WA: Kirkland Congregational UCC
We try to make all visitors welcome and explain to them what our church stands for and invite them to come back.
Dallas, TX: Central Congregational UCC
Our church continues to improve the accessibility of our church to those with disabilities – as those with hearing disabilities and those in wheel chairs.
Exeter, NH: Congregational Church of Exeter UCC
We are fully accessible with a ramp, elevator, special bathroom, pew sections, hearing devices, and large print bulletins. We have several members who are in wheelchairs and many who need hearing assistance. We are O&A and have several gay and lesbian couples.
Seattle, WA: Fauntleroy Church UCC
We use a golf cart to bring folks who have difficulty walking from our parking lot to our front door. In April we voted to proceed with a capital improvement project that includes installing an elevator. We have listening devices and large print bulletins each Sunday.
Albuquerque, NM: Church of the Good Shepherd UCC
We are in the middle of developing plans to become accessible to all. Our older members are beginning to feel the need. We have a signer for the hearing impaired, a good sound system that people are encouraged to use, and large print bulletins available for those who need them. We still need to put in an elevator or change the building around to have an alternative to stairs.
Norton, OH: Grace UCC of Loyal Oak
We have made sure that we have ramps available for handicapped persons and helpers to assist with parking cars and accessing the building. We are an active part of the area's interfaith community.
College Station, TX: Friends Congregational UCC
Our extravagant welcome is intended for all, and we try to revisit how we are or are not providing that extravagant welcome frequently. Within the last year, we have begun using large print bulletins for those with visual restrictions and a new portable annex outside our sanctuary that is used for committee meetings. Our Sunday school has handicap accessible bathrooms. Even our sound system strives to provide articulate resonance of the message in our worship services so that all will hear what is being read, taught, and preached.
Dallas, TX: Cathedral of Hope
We have interpreters available for our deaf members. We have a designated Spanish speaking worship service. Our building is accessible to our members who utilize wheelchairs.
The Dalles, OR: United Church of Christ Congregational
Members help others who have walkers come to church. Our Choir accommodates members who have walkers. We provide large print Sunday worship bulletins.
Philadelphia, PA: Old First Reformed UCC
Our church building has a front door ramp and an elevator to our 2nd floor sanctuary. Our most recent capital campaign included funds to make our rest rooms wheelchair-accessible, and we have also created spaces in our pew layout for wheelchairs. Areas for future growth would include Braille or large-print Bibles, hymnals, and other worship materials, TTD or signing services for those who are hearing-challenged, along with improved access to worship leadership opportunities for those who are differently-abled.
West Point, NE: Trinity UCC
We removed all steps into the building and any restrictive railings. We are remodeling the kitchen to make it more accessible.
North Fork, CA: Grace Community UCC
We have ramps at our entrances. Our restrooms are handicapped accessible.
What UCC congregations hope for the future
La Mesa, CA: United Church of Christ of La Mesa
One need still to be addressed is for Braille materials. We are talking about how to provide assistance to our hearing-impaired sisters and brothers on a more permanent basis. Our hope is to continue to be a welcoming church home for all and one where special needs are recognized and met.
San Diego, CA: Mission Hills UCC
At Mission Hills, we plan to install an elevator so that the second floor is accessible to all. This is planned as an aspect of building improvement for our 100th anniversary. We will also put up many more signs to indicate accessible entrances, etc.
Kirkland, WA: Kirkland Congregational UCC
We have a web site where we lay out our services and programs and some pictures of past happenings.
Dallas, TX: Central Congregational UCC
The Still Speaking campaign resonates in our hearts and in our church. We supported it through our church and individually. May the wider UCC continue to initiate, so we can support, this type of media campaign.
Norton, OH: Grace UCC of Loyal Oak
The congregation of Grace UCC of Loyal Oak considers every member a minister and our pastor is our staff to lean on. We would like to see more open and affirming churches in the area.
Dallas, TX: Cathedral of Hope
Our church is seeking to evangelize to those who have physical and/or cognitive differences and to provide worship services and opportunities that best meet their needs.
The Dalles, OR: United Church of Christ Congregational
The UCC should keep looking for ways to make our church accessible for all.
Philadelphia, PA: Old First Reformed UCC
By providing access, we are truly able to welcome people throughout the full course of their lives, from infancy through old age. We can say, with integrity, "neither height, nor depth, nor any other circumstance can separate our members from the love of God – or from the gathered community of the church."
West Point, NE: Trinity UCC
We continue to speak of accessibility.
North Fork, CA: Grace Community UCC
I think that we are the hope for people who are looking for accessibility. Many churches say "no" to any one who is different.
We are an open and affirming church
What UCC congregations are doing
La Mesa, CA: United Church of Christ of La Mesa
The following press release celebrates what we, as a church, have accomplished in this area: The United Church of Christ (UCC) Coalition for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Concerns conferred its 2007 Eleonore & Oliver Powell Award on the United Church of Christ of La Mesa (UCCLM) at the UCC Southern California Nevada Conference's Annual Gathering. The award was presented for demonstrating a vision of inclusiveness in living out our mission in the local community and commended our congregation for believing in, welcoming, loving and empowering all of God's children and for living our motto "Doing together what we cannot do alone." This award was a surprise to our congregation. Our pastor expresses our hope about who are welcome in our church. He says, "All people young, old, male, female, black, white, brown, yellow, single, married, divorced, widowed, gay, straight, conservative, liberal, moderate from all walks of life, for we are all created in God's own image. We are a truly diverse congregation who strive to love one another as God loves us. Our members live their faith and their commitment to God and extend God's extravagant welcome to everyone." Though not officially an Open and Affirming Church (yet!), our congregation's commitment to inclusiveness is reflected in its makeup. Among our members are gay and lesbian individuals, couples and families -- all fully involved in our programs and activities.
San Diego, CA: Mission Hills UCC
We voted to become an Open and Affirming congregation one year ago. Since then our membership has grown substantially. We have celebrated Pride Sunday, Coming Out Day, and National AIDS Day. We have instituted the Open and Affirming task force as a standing committee in our by-laws.
Kirkland, WA: Kirkland Congregational UCC
By trying to live up to the open and affirming concept by trying to live by our oath.
Dallas, TX: Central Congregational UCC
We are an open and affirming church to all God's people. We embrace diversity including gay and lesbian members.
Exeter, NH: Congregational Church of Exeter UCC
We have been an Open and Affirming congregation since 1995.
Seattle, WA: Fauntleroy Church UCC
We became an Open and Affirming congregation in 1996. We reaffirmed that stance in 1997. We perform same-gender covenant services. We participate in the Religious Coalition for Equality and have had a delegation for the last several years visiting our legislature on Equality Day.
Albuquerque, NM: Church of the Good Shepherd UCC
We have been Open and Affirming for several years. We are clearly one of the most welcoming and friendly congregations in the city. We are enthusiastic and exuberant in our welcome and have a good system for follow-up and assimilation. The key thing, however, is that our welcome is extravagant.
Norton, OH: Grace UCC of Loyal Oak
We have donated use of our Fellowship Hall and classrooms to organizations with members who are not necessarily members of our church, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Girl Scouts, Interfaith Hospitality Network (we house homeless families for a week at a time), the Norton-Barberton-Wadsworth Peace Group.
College Station, TX: Friends Congregational UCC
Through two years of purposeful dialog, education, prayer and worship, our church came to the shared decision to become an open and affirming congregation.
Dallas, TX: Cathedral of Hope
We are considered the world's largest LGBT faith community.
The Dalles, OR: United Church of Christ Congregational
We support those who are gay. lesbian, bisexual or transgendered (GLBT). We have become an open and affirming church.
Philadelphia, PA: Old First Reformed UCC
Since our congregation's 1995 vote to become an Open and Affirming congregation, we have welcomed many lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people to membership and leadership in our congregation. Our church has hosted a number of commitment ceremonies for committed same-gender couples. For years, we have had displays at Philadelphia's three annual LGBT festivals. Most recently, in response both to the 2005 General Synod marriage resolution and a proposed amendment to Pennsylvania's constitution to bar same-gender marriage, our Official Board approved a resolution supportive of same-gender marriage, and participated in a successful advocacy campaign to stop the anti-marriage constitutional amendment. We are currently drafting a wedding policy which we intend to be inclusive of same-gender couples. Future goals may include worship and support group gatherings for nontraditional families and partnerships with other LGBT-supportive congregations.
West Point, NE: Trinity UCC
We are always open and affirming, at present we have no known gay or lesbian members.
North Fork, CA: Grace Community UCC
Our mission statement says that we welcome all...and we do and have for a long time. We are in the process of putting together a class on Open and Affirming.
What UCC congregations hope for the future
La Mesa, CA: United Church of Christ of La Mesa
We want to do more of what we are doing! We are proud of and enriched by our diversity.
San Diego, CA: Mission Hills UCC
Mission Hills hopes for more outreach to the local GLBT community which is right next to us – to establish support groups for GLBT persons and to continue to advocate for equal rights in marriage for all.
Kirkland, WA: Kirkland Congregational UCC
We have hope about our future – hope to find more people to get excited by the growth of our congregation and our history as the oldest church in Kirkland.
Dallas, TX: Central Congregational UCC
Our vision statement was crafted in 2005 by church members. The first lines speak to a welcoming inclusive family of faith. The process of becoming O&A was filled with hope.
Seattle, WA: Fauntleroy Church UCC
We hope the national church will continue to be a beacon of light in the ongoing conversations – both ecumenically and politically – in the days and years ahead.
Norton, OH: Grace UCC of Loyal Oak
I would like for more of the UCC churches in my area of Ohio do the same types of things which Grace does.
College Station, TX: Friends Congregational UCC
We hope that all UCC churches, and all of God's churches, would become open and affirming – so that the term “open and affirming” need not be used for the sake of this issue being stripped of its negative power. Our GLBT children, after all, are not issues. They are children of God, people of faith, and members of our shared human family.
Dallas, TX: Cathedral of Hope
To help our heterosexual sisters and brothers feel welcome. Also to provide education and resources to help those supportive of the LGBT community better express how their belief and support are congruent with the Word of God.
The Dalles, OR: United Church of Christ Congregational
We hope the UCC will further educate people about the GLBT community.
Philadelphia, PA: Old First Reformed UCC
Our congregation has welcomed numerous LGBT people, some of whom have experienced considerable hostility in other faith communities. Our congregation has been enriched by their gifts and their testimonies of faith. Together we have seen that "God is still speaking," and that we can move beyond static understandings of Scripture and tradition to experience the love of God who constantly moves to embrace those who have previously been marginalized.
West Point, NE: Trinity UCC
We believe the church should truly be open to all.
North Fork, CA: Grace Community UCC
We think that open and affirming issues are becoming more and more significant, not just in the church, but throughout our country. We think that we as a church can be an example of that.
We are a peace with justice church
What UCC congregations are doing
La Mesa, CA: United Church of Christ of La Mesa
UCC of La Mesa members with special interest/involvement in peace and justice issues conduct programs at the church and provide information about them to all. Recent examples of these programs have included a showing and discussion of "The Ground Truth " and a presentation discussing the United State's policy toward the Middle East (included the speaker's experiences in Lebanon). Among the programs supported by UCCLM and in which members are actively involved are Habitat for Humanity, The UCC Coffee Project, Heartland Human Relations, Crisis House, Interfaith Committee for Workers Justice, Interfaith Shelter Network, Winter Shelter Program, El Nido Transitional Housing, International Relief Teams, Hesperian Foundation, Special Delivery, Planned Parenthood, Neighbors in Need, One Great Hour of Sharing and Heifer International.
San Diego, CA: Mission Hills UCC
We express the commitment through Bible study, preaching, and participating in social service agencies that advocate for justice and peace.
Kirkland, WA: Kirkland Congregational UCC
Our worship services have stressed the peace with justice theme.
Dallas, TX: Central Congregational UCC
Striving to live peace individually and collectively is our gift to each other and to the world. We have developed an Exploring Contemporary Values Forum where we strive to educate our congregation and visitors to injustices/issues in our country and around the world, such as Darfur, Wal-Mart, and Immigration issues.
Exeter, NH: Congregational Church of Exeter UCC
Having a sister church in Zimbabwe is a part of this commitment for us. Mission trips are part of this commitment. Our concern for Darfur is part of this commitment.
Seattle, WA: Fauntleroy Church UCC
Many members of Fauntleroy participate in the peace and justice network of the UCC. We are re-starting a Peace & World Affairs Task Force. We have had a number of study groups on various issues. Each month we send letters for Amnesty International.
Albuquerque, NM: Church of the Good Shepherd UCC
We keep the conversation open. Last Sunday we celebrated Memorial Day with the Justice and Peace theme. We made quilts for the vets, brought tons of underwear, t-shirts, and personal items, sang "Bring Him Home" from the musical Les Misérables. We sang about peace throughout the land! We seem to have struck a thoughtful balance between the warriors and the peaceniks.
Norton, OH: Grace UCC of Loyal Oak
Janet Dailey, our Social Justice chair for Grace, spends a lot of time each week helping the members get information and tools to respond to various causes that the UCC wishes to address. We have a Social Justice room and provide letters, addresses, information, and envelopes to make it easy for congregation members to take an active part in the activities recommended by the UCC. Our congregation has been very receptive.
Dallas, TX: Cathedral of Hope
We have an active peace with justice ministry that seeks to promote a world of peace, to call into account our politicians for decisions which exclude and continue to oppress, and to speak out against the current war and/or future wars.
Our church is also seeking to begin construction on a Peace Chapel that will be opened to individuals of ALL faiths and abilities. The chapel is designed to further bring together the body of Christ and the kin-dom of God such that we are one.
The Dalles, OR: United Church of Christ Congregational
On the first Friday of the month, we support our troops in a local peace march. We help our missionaries, and support natural disaster victims.
Philadelphia, PA: Old First Reformed UCC
We have not officially taken action to declare ourselves a peace with justice congregation, but we have taken some steps. Our congregation took down a longstanding flag pole (mostly due to structural deterioration) and replaced it with a peace pole. Members of our congregation have participated in peace vigils and other advocacy against the Iraq war. Locally, some of our members are involved in efforts to reduce the level of gun violence in the city of Philadelphia, particularly among youth.
West Point, NE: Trinity UCC
We have held prayer meetings and supported the Hispanic community around the closing of Tyson and people have stayed in town.
North Fork, CA: Grace Community UCC
We are affiliated with a group that donates books to mothers in prison. They tape the books and give them to their children so that the children can hear their mothers' voices. We have a member who visits people in prison. We donate to rescue missions who help the homeless.
What UCC congregations hope for the future
La Mesa, CA: United Church of Christ of La Mesa
Our dream is to continue to provide relevant and inclusive ministry in our community and the world. It is our hope that those who come to visit experience what "true community" is all about and that they, in turn, teach others to build community. We would like to be a "beacon of hope" for those who have never experienced unconditional love. It is our dream that our love reaches out not only our community, but our city, our state, our nation and the world.
San Diego, CA: Mission Hills UCC
We hope the UCC will continue to be a leader in justice and peace issues. We cannot give up our leadership in this area and must rely on God's grace to guide and empower.
Kirkland, WA: Kirkland Congregational UCC
As a congregation, we feel that we can stress to the community how our faith offers peace and justice.
Dallas, TX: Central Congregational UCC
Many of us participate politically by voting, writing, emailing to our elected officials through the UCC's Peace and Justice program and other justice-oriented programs.
Seattle, WA: Fauntleroy Church UCC
We hope the National setting can provide not only a prophetic witness, but also new resources to help us move more coherently as a congregation.
Dallas, TX: Cathedral of Hope
The Dalles, OR: United Church of Christ Congregational
The UCC will continue to educate the community and support our country.
Philadelphia, PA: Old First Reformed UCC
While our members hold a variety of views on what "peace with justice" means, our congregation feels it is important to seek peace – in our neighborhoods as well as internationally – and to work for nonviolent ways to resolve conflict. A major growth opportunity for our congregation would be formally to declare ourselves a peace with justice church, and to set up mechanisms to embrace and support, through prayer and fellowship, those who work for peace.
West Point, NE: Trinity UCC
We continue to support peace with justice and realize that justice is different for many people depending on race and culture.
North Fork, CA: Grace Community UCC
It seems that UCC is always on the leading edge of peace and justice issues. It has a history clear back to early American times. We are like a conscience
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Home > 50 > Resources
Responses
UCC congregations shine!
Discover the vital ministries and prayerful hopes of United Church of Christ congregations across the denomination. How are UCC churches living out our historic commitments? What are the hopes and prayers of congregations for the broader UCC's future? Please click below to view responses.
We are a united and uniting church
What UCC congregations are doing
What UCC congregations hope for the future
We are a multiracial and multicultural church
What UCC congregations are doing
What UCC congregations hope for the future
We are a church accessible to all
What UCC congregations are doing
What UCC congregations hope for the future
We are an open and affirming church
What UCC congregations are doing
What UCC congregations hope for the future
We are a peace with justice church
What UCC congregations are doing
What UCC congregations hope for the future
Responses
We are a united and uniting church
What UCC congregations are doing
La Mesa, CA: United Church of Christ of La Mesa
United Church of Christ of La Mesa is active in the San Diego Ecumenical Council and in planning joint programs with other churches (an example is the 2007 Lenten Series conducted in conjunction with "East County Progressive Clergy Network," an inter-denominational group). The church also sponsors and supports other long term interfaith projects, among them the East County Interfaith Shelter for the homeless and the Crisis House, a service which offers counseling services to abused children. We see a special need to reach out and "to unite" youth and young families, especially those currently unchurched. Desiring to be the same loving, accepting congregation that we are for years to come, we want to share the love and justice that we live with our children and grandchildren and with the wider community. UCCLM has so much to offer to those who do not have a church home and we believe they have much to offer us in continuity, in sharing, in "Doing together what we can not do alone." Working toward this goal, we are currently planning a contemporary worship service and taking steps to implement those plans in the near future.
Norton, OH: Grace UCC of Loyal Oak
Our church reaches out to the community and opens its doors to all.
San Diego, CA: Mission Hills UCC
We formally adopted "United Church of Christ" as the official name of our church several years ago and have worked diligently to embrace our UCC identity through campaigns like "God is Still Speaking," becoming a "5 for 5" church, and using the UCC logo on all print media and on our website. While honoring our Congregational heritage, we are unashamedly a congregation of the United Church of Christ.
Kirkland, WA: Kirkland Congregational UCC
We have four congregations of various denominations worshiping in our church every week. We have several local service agencies meeting in our church evenings in our church. Our church sponsored "Tent City" finding space for the homeless.
Dallas, TX: Central Congregational UCC
Everyone was invited to participate in writing our vision statement and a majority of the congregation responded.
Exeter, NH: Congregational Church of Exeter UCC
Our church is Open and Affirming, became so in 1995. We have a sister church in Zimbabwe and bring members from the church here each year. Twice, people from our church have gone there. Our church mission trip this year is to Biloxi MS. We have had a six week worship series on other faiths that included music and hymns, sermons, bulletin inserts with take-home information. We are fully accessible with ramp, elevator, special bathroom, hearing devices, and large-print bulletins. We've had jazz, guitar, drums, and gospel in worship, have a praise choir and a classical choir.
Vernon, CT: First Congregational Church of Vernon
First Congregational Church of Vernon lives out the commitment to be a united and united church. We are an active and vital part of our diverse faith community in Vernon and we participate in numerous interfaith, ecumenical and community worship and program experiences which draw people together around our common belief in God, our desire to strengthen the community and to be in support of one another.
We team up with 3 other churches to run the town-wide week-long Vacation Bible School program which serves more than 110 children. The clergy, volunteers, aids and families come from the UCC, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the United Methodist Church and the Roman Catholic Church. We participate in the Interfaith Thanksgiving Eve Service, the Ecumenical Holy Thursday Service and the Interfaith Service of Remembrance, as well. The Interfaith services include those from Episcopal, Jewish, Sikh and Muslim traditions as well as those from neighboring towns. At each of these services our unity and our diversity are lifted up as gifts to be embraced.
Additionally, when our pastors hold New Member orientation sessions, the history of our local church and of our denomination are shared, and each new member is given the opportunity to tell where they’ve come from on the faith journey and what’s brought them to FCCV. As a congregation we value the importance of sharing our stories, gleaning wisdom from one another’s experiences, and gaining strength from each one’s presence at the table. As a local congregation we mirror what we value as a denomination – our united and uniting way.
Albuquerque, NM: Church of the Good Shepherd UCC
We are an Open and Affirming congregation with plans beginning to develop to become accessible to all. We tell the story again and again and use the image of a circle of belonging with an open door. Our pastor chairs the NM Council of Churches, and we participate in many hunger action projects. Last year we collected 7500 cans of tomatoes in one month for the local food bank. This year the goal will be 10,000. In New Mexico, tomatoes are a staple!
College Station, TX: Friends Congregational UCC
We are an oasis to our community, as we reside in a highly conservative, relatively uniform town. We are an open and affirming congregation that is devoted to the progressive authenticity of Jesus' teachings. Our vision is to offer God's extravagant welcome to all, and our mission is to seek a deeper spirituality, and to transform God's world one act of love at a time.
Dallas, TX: Cathedral of Hope
Cathedral of Hope is an ecumenical body under one roof. Individuals from the Roman Catholic, Buddhist, Protestant, and other faith traditions gather to lift one another up in the spirit of community and the spirit of God's divine love. It is clear that ours is a church of extravagant welcome to all people, no matter where they are on life's journey.
The Dalles, OR: United Church of Christ Congregational
We have a potluck and movie the first Friday of the month that is about an issue that affects the whole community. This is open to the public. We unite with people who are not members but come to the services and Sunday School. We participate in open exchanges with other local churches. We also express being united by being open and affirming, allowing groups to use our building and not pressuring them to join our church. We make a special effort for our Lenten studies to be open to the public.
Philadelphia, PA: Old First Reformed UCC
Our congregation actively participates in the functions of the Philadelphia Association and the Pennsylvania Southeast Conference of the United Church of Christ, and members of our congregation have attended General Synod. In addition, we are active in the Old Philadelphia Congregations, an interdenominational, interfaith ministerium composed of the clergy of the churches in Old City Philadelphia. We provide financial support to the Metropolitan Christian Council of Philadelphia, and one of our clergy members had served until his retirement as Executive Director of that body.
We have a partner church relationship with an EKU congregation in Bielefeld, Germany, and through the efforts of one of our clergy members, are in the process of forming a partnership with two congregations in Cuba. On a day-to-day basis, perhaps the most tangible way in which we live out this commitment is through our community ministries.
We partner, on an interdenominational, interfaith basis with numerous city and suburban congregations in providing direct assistance and social justice advocacy for the poor and vulnerable of Philadelphia. Opportunities for future growth would include expanding our partnership network and seeking opportunities to share worship facilities when desirable. In the Philadelphia area, such a network could cooperate to provide for greater efficiency of food distribution, so that donated food is not wasted, but reaches those in need.
Arlington Heights, IL: Congregational UCC
Our congregation is involved in united and uniting in the following ways:
• Discussion of becoming ONA
• Participation in ecumenical studies since the Ecumenical Institute in 1965
• Field trips to churches we supported in inner city of Chicago
• Our congregation’s membership is made up of persons from all kinds of faith background
• The work of our social action committee which includes: an inter-racial pulpit exchange; sponsorship of Cuban and Vietnamese refugees; summer vacation Bible camp open to everyone (had 26 different churches represented last year)
• Our OCWM budget includes diverse social ministries as well as UCC
• Our youth group is made of several churches together from the northwest suburbs of Chicago
San Diego, CA: Mission Hills UCC
We hope to participate in ecumenical efforts for justice and peace particularly regarding the war in Iraq, immigration issues, affordable housing and health care for all. We will continue to participate in ecumenical worship in our community.
Kirkland, WA: Kirkland Congregational UCC
For the past 12 years, we have been a part of an ecumenical sharing of services and meetings.
Dallas, TX: Central Congregational UCC
We believe the UCC looks at what binds us as human beings and as people of God. These qualities that religions have in common include: forgiveness, justice, peace. We can be a shining example.
Exeter, NH: Congregational Church of Exeter UCC
We hope the UCC will work out with Episcopalians the mutual regard the UCC has with Lutherans. Our good neighbors here are Episcopalians, who join us in social commitments, etc. But we are separated by the lack of ability to join in liturgies. In New England there aren't a lot of Lutherans, and for Congregationalists, the cradle was Episcopalian, so this re-uniting means much more than with Lutherans. The bent is so very far towards E&R traditions, and ignores Congregational roots. Fervent wish that you correct this. Congregationalists also come from same cradle as Quakers, how about movement there? We have a shared history of abolition, and at times, peace.
Vernon, CT: First Congregational Church of Vernon
It is our hope that there is a future for ecumenical and interfaith relations. We hope that there remains a middle ground, a meeting place, a welcoming forum for people, denominations, traditions and religions to meet and share what we hold in common – and to learn about what is unique for each of us. Can we do this without rigid walls, name calling, going to war? As Christians, is it possible to still remain faithful to our call, and yet celebrate how the Divine One moves among all the peoples of the earth in differing ways? In our own community we find great inspiration and hope when we get together ecumenically and on an interfaith basis; our hope is for renewed energy and focus for this kind of work and worship at the national setting.
Seattle, WA: Fauntleroy Church UCC
We hope that the national church can continue to work ecumenically with others through Church World Service (CSW) and perhaps other venues. Ecumenical conversations need to continue and we need to be sensitive listeners to the needs of others – as well as to witness to our own strengths. We believe denominational alignments are shifting these days and we need to be open to new possible configurations.
West Point, NE: Trinity UCC
We have opened our door to a Hispanic congregation to share use our building.
North Fork, CA: Grace Community UCC
We engage in outreach to the American Indian population in our community. We also welcome people of all religious backgrounds. Our congregation is composed of many religious faiths.
What UCC congregations hope for the future
La Mesa, CA: United Church of Christ of La Mesa
With our commitment to being united and uniting, we believe we need, to quote Romans, to "be inventive in hospitality." When people visit us, they like us. Many stay. We have talked about the need for growth for a long time and have started down that path with our new Director of Youth, Young Families Christian Education, but lots more needs to be done. We need to think "outside the box," strategically, to let the people of our community know we are here and that they are welcome and needed. This same "outside the box" thinking will, we believe, guide us in establishing and participating in additional ecumenical programs.
Norton, OH: Grace UCC of Loyal Oak
That our society would become more open and affirming and less sanctimonious and judgmental.
College Station, TX: Friends Congregational UCC
We have a relationship with the Institute for Interfaith Dialog in College Station, which is primarily founded on the intent to remove hateful stereotypes of Muslim people post-9/11 in our culture. This is one example of the intentional hope that our congregation lives into, as we seek to learn more about ourselves by learning more about others in the richness of God's diverse world. We stand by the African Proverb, in this respect, that boasts, "If you want to go quick, go alone. If you want to go far, go together."
Dallas, TX: Cathedral of Hope
We hope the world will come and see that it is possible to be ecumenical and still honor the teachings of Jesus and the Word of God. For the world to see that it is possible for us to truly live as one.
The Dalles, OR: United Church of Christ Congregational
We hope the denomination will continue discussions about “united and uniting.” We desire opportunities to hear from missionaries and participate in the Heifer Project. We encourage members of our church to visit other churches and report back. Let’s stay involved.
Philadelphia, PA: Old First Reformed UCC
By partnering with other settings of the UCC, and with congregations of other denominations and other faiths, we can serve God and our neighbor in acts of community service and social justice advocacy, in ways far beyond what any one congregation can accomplish. Together we testify that we can cooperate across the boundaries of divergent faith traditions and understandings of God.
Arlington Heights, IL: Congregational UCC
Our congregation hopes that the wider UCC will:
• Reach a spirit of one-ness (Our own church should take a lead among others in our own community in joining together in such a spirit.)
• Reach out to 20-something
• Start a U-2 ministry on a website aimed at young adults in their 20's
West Point, NE: Trinity UCC
We continue to emphasize the oneness in Christ. We lift up the denomination by putting Christ and the people of the church first.
North Fork, CA: Grace Community UCC
We would like to be able to work with the other churches in our town so that we could help more. Our denominational stance on some issues makes us seem untouchable to them.
We are a multiracial and multicultural church
What UCC congregations are doing
La Mesa, CA: United Church of Christ of La Mesa
Although La Mesa's congregation reflects the basically Caucasian demographics of its location, its membership and its leadership include people of various ethnicities. Perhaps the best expression of that inclusiveness is its Puerto Rican pastor. Recent months have seen a steady move toward increased diversity, perhaps most noticeably in the Sunday school. Both our pastor and our Director of Youth, Young Families and Christian Education speak Spanish, as do many of our members – an ability especially valuable in our work with and support of Casa Hogar 29, an orphanage in San Antonio de las Minas, Baja California. Another special event along these lines is our youth group's upcoming mission trip to Puerto Rico.
San Diego, CA: Mission Hills UCC
We sponsor creative multicultural programs including singing groups from the Dominican Republic. Mission Hills experiments with worship that embraces cultures other than our majority Anglo culture.
Kirkland, WA: Kirkland Congregational UCC
We have been an Open and Affirming church for several years and have followed through with our commitment by inviting minorities to come to our church.
Dallas, TX: Central Congregational UCC
We welcome all races into our church. Our Youth Mission trips to Appalachia last summer and God's Katrina Kitchen this summer is supported by members both financially and physically.
Exeter, NH: Congregational Church of Exeter UCC
NH is pretty much a white state, so becoming multi-racial is tough. But there are Buddhist, Jewish, and Hindu temples near us. We take our confirmands to visit the temples. And we are, as a congregation, learning more about other faiths. Already there have been a couple of weddings between someone who grew up in our church and a Hindu or Buddhist from another nation. Also, our Mission Committee is a sponsor for Fresh Air, a program in which families take an inner city New York City child for a few weeks in the summer.
Seattle, WA: Fauntleroy Church UCC
We have developed partnership relations with congregations in Seoul, South Korea (actively participating in annual exchanges), and with a little community in the Oaxaca province of Mexico (where we will be sending a second mission group this summer).
Albuquerque, NM: Church of the Good Shepherd UCC
New Mexico is a growing and changing landscape of opportunities. We are a third Anglo, a third Native American, and a third Hispanic/Mexican American. Our congregation is reflective of our community so much that we hardly notice.
Norton, OH: Grace UCC of Loyal Oak
Our location has impeded our ability to draw people of other races and cultures due to its largely homogenized condition. However, we have often had visitors from other areas and have always welcomed them warmly.
College Station, TX: Friends Congregational UCC
We share a diverse mix of families in our flock that come together because of the love that is evident within our church walls. That same love resonates throughout our community. The word is out there that people can be family with and for one another in our church. We are delighted to have a group of families who have adopted Korean and Chinese children, single-parent families, same-sex parent families, interracial families and our intergenerational family of Friends.
Dallas, TX: Cathedral of Hope
Cathedral of Hope has outreach ministries to African American and Hispanic communities. ALL are welcome. With great vision for its future, those who helped to create the Cathedral in its present form included stained glass windows that incorporate "Hope" in English and Spanish. This past Sunday, the Hispanic ministry added a native Spanish-speaking minister. We also have a deaf ministry.
The Dalles, OR: United Church of Christ Congregational
We express our multiracial and multicultural through being open and affirming, supporting members of other races, our Taize services, and our Sunday school for children.
Philadelphia, PA: Old First Reformed UCC
As a downtown urban congregation, our congregation's membership and lay leadership is multiracial and multicultural. In particular, in recent years we have welcomed immigrants from Liberia and Nigeria, who have gone on to take leadership roles in our congregation. In worship, we have attempted to incorporate music reflecting the racial and cultural diversity of our congregation. We hope our congregation's membership will continue to become more reflective of our city's demographics. One "growing edge" for our congregation would be greater inclusion in worship across economic lines; for example, greater opportunities for those served by our homeless shelter and cupboard ministries to participate in leading worship. Another area for future growth would be new opportunities for worship participation of children of all races and cultures.
West Point, NE: Trinity UCC
Although we share our building with a Hispanic congregation, at this time we do not actually have multiracial or multiracial members.
North Fork, CA: Grace Community UCC
Through Christian Education, our mission focuses on American Indian children. We transport the children to church on Sunday and provide Sunday School as well as meals. We also have a Vacation Bible School in the summer and field trips through out the year.
What UCC congregations hope for the future
La Mesa, CA: United Church of Christ of La Mesa
Outreach plans include translating our visitors' brochures and information packets into Spanish (other languages to follow) and submitting information about our activities to Spanish language publications. Flyers and posters in Spanish are also in the planning stage.
San Diego, CA: Mission Hills UCC
We hope that we might be more involved in the Hispanic community in our area and be more welcoming in our worship to other cultures.
Kirkland, WA: Kirkland Congregational UCC
I think we have made some progress, but could do better.
Dallas, TX: Central Congregational UCC
The youth are an important and vital part of our future. They are living in a multicultural world and adults can learn from them to look beyond race.
Exeter, NH: Congregational Church of Exeter UCC
Our main hope is that the UCC will grow to be more spiritually Christian, more interested in and educated about the traditions of prayer and peacefulness that exist in Christianity. We pray that the UCC will alter its model of being multiracial and justice-seeking from a confrontational model to a model of inner strength and clarity of soul – born of prayer and light and love. This means moving from demanding justice to becoming in ourselves the justice that we seek.
Norton, OH: Grace UCC of Loyal Oak
We hope that our denomination may grow stronger and have influence over the present day's trend toward inhibition and repression.
College Station, TX: Friends Congregational UCC
Our church is a pretty accurate microcosm of the nature of religion in our country at the turn of the century: less denominationalism and more ecumenism. To that degree, I pray that the diversity that we relish at Friends would be embraced in our congregations nationwide for the sake of so many coming together in ways that do not uplift only one group of people or one sect of society in thankful response to what God is doing in our churches and in our world in the name of that Divine love.
Dallas, TX: Cathedral of Hope
We hope the UCC will reach out to the various cultures and peoples within our community and our world to say there is a place for you in our family and in the family of God.
The Dalles, OR: United Church of Christ Congregational
We hope our denomination will continue to support issues that are multiracial and multicultural.
Philadelphia, PA: Old First Reformed UCC
Our diverse membership can testify as to how we've experienced God's love and grace – along with the challenges of Christian discipleship – in a wide variety of settings and circumstances, far beyond what could be experienced in a less diverse congregation. We have been blessed by our experiencing a wide range of worship styles. We are constantly challenged to rethink our faith journeys in light of the varied life experiences of fellow congregants.
West Point, NE: Trinity UCC
Our town is multicultural and multiracial and will continue to reach out and hope for greater diversity in our congregation.
North Fork, CA: Grace Community UCC
Our area is primarily made up of Caucasian people and a large number are retired. We also have a large American Indian population. We have some lesbian women in our church, but not aware of any other racial or cultural people.
We are a church accessible to all
What UCC congregations are doing
La Mesa, CA: United Church of Christ of La Mesa
Access to almost all areas of the church is easy for those in wheelchairs or requiring walkers and our people are ever ready to offer assistance, where needed. The entries to the church, sanctuary, fellowship hall, and restrooms are level and ramps lead to the Christian Education rooms, AA Meeting Room, Youth Room and kitchen. Designated space for wheelchairs and chairs for those with wheelchair-bound worshipers is provided at all services. Special earphones (part of our new sound system) for the hard of hearing are available and we have a member who knows Sign Language and is available to translate the service upon request. The men's women's and "family" restrooms are equipped with infant changing tables.
San Diego, CA: Mission Hills UCC
We made our restrooms accessible and the entire first floor - including the chancel accessible. All areas of our sanctuary are accessible. We have sponsored a variety of forums on this topic.
Kirkland, WA: Kirkland Congregational UCC
We try to make all visitors welcome and explain to them what our church stands for and invite them to come back.
Dallas, TX: Central Congregational UCC
Our church continues to improve the accessibility of our church to those with disabilities – as those with hearing disabilities and those in wheel chairs.
Exeter, NH: Congregational Church of Exeter UCC
We are fully accessible with a ramp, elevator, special bathroom, pew sections, hearing devices, and large print bulletins. We have several members who are in wheelchairs and many who need hearing assistance. We are O&A and have several gay and lesbian couples.
Seattle, WA: Fauntleroy Church UCC
We use a golf cart to bring folks who have difficulty walking from our parking lot to our front door. In April we voted to proceed with a capital improvement project that includes installing an elevator. We have listening devices and large print bulletins each Sunday.
Albuquerque, NM: Church of the Good Shepherd UCC
We are in the middle of developing plans to become accessible to all. Our older members are beginning to feel the need. We have a signer for the hearing impaired, a good sound system that people are encouraged to use, and large print bulletins available for those who need them. We still need to put in an elevator or change the building around to have an alternative to stairs.
Norton, OH: Grace UCC of Loyal Oak
We have made sure that we have ramps available for handicapped persons and helpers to assist with parking cars and accessing the building. We are an active part of the area's interfaith community.
College Station, TX: Friends Congregational UCC
Our extravagant welcome is intended for all, and we try to revisit how we are or are not providing that extravagant welcome frequently. Within the last year, we have begun using large print bulletins for those with visual restrictions and a new portable annex outside our sanctuary that is used for committee meetings. Our Sunday school has handicap accessible bathrooms. Even our sound system strives to provide articulate resonance of the message in our worship services so that all will hear what is being read, taught, and preached.
Dallas, TX: Cathedral of Hope
We have interpreters available for our deaf members. We have a designated Spanish speaking worship service. Our building is accessible to our members who utilize wheelchairs.
The Dalles, OR: United Church of Christ Congregational
Members help others who have walkers come to church. Our Choir accommodates members who have walkers. We provide large print Sunday worship bulletins.
Philadelphia, PA: Old First Reformed UCC
Our church building has a front door ramp and an elevator to our 2nd floor sanctuary. Our most recent capital campaign included funds to make our rest rooms wheelchair-accessible, and we have also created spaces in our pew layout for wheelchairs. Areas for future growth would include Braille or large-print Bibles, hymnals, and other worship materials, TTD or signing services for those who are hearing-challenged, along with improved access to worship leadership opportunities for those who are differently-abled.
West Point, NE: Trinity UCC
We removed all steps into the building and any restrictive railings. We are remodeling the kitchen to make it more accessible.
North Fork, CA: Grace Community UCC
We have ramps at our entrances. Our restrooms are handicapped accessible.
What UCC congregations hope for the future
La Mesa, CA: United Church of Christ of La Mesa
One need still to be addressed is for Braille materials. We are talking about how to provide assistance to our hearing-impaired sisters and brothers on a more permanent basis. Our hope is to continue to be a welcoming church home for all and one where special needs are recognized and met.
San Diego, CA: Mission Hills UCC
At Mission Hills, we plan to install an elevator so that the second floor is accessible to all. This is planned as an aspect of building improvement for our 100th anniversary. We will also put up many more signs to indicate accessible entrances, etc.
Kirkland, WA: Kirkland Congregational UCC
We have a web site where we lay out our services and programs and some pictures of past happenings.
Dallas, TX: Central Congregational UCC
The Still Speaking campaign resonates in our hearts and in our church. We supported it through our church and individually. May the wider UCC continue to initiate, so we can support, this type of media campaign.
Norton, OH: Grace UCC of Loyal Oak
The congregation of Grace UCC of Loyal Oak considers every member a minister and our pastor is our staff to lean on. We would like to see more open and affirming churches in the area.
Dallas, TX: Cathedral of Hope
Our church is seeking to evangelize to those who have physical and/or cognitive differences and to provide worship services and opportunities that best meet their needs.
The Dalles, OR: United Church of Christ Congregational
The UCC should keep looking for ways to make our church accessible for all.
Philadelphia, PA: Old First Reformed UCC
By providing access, we are truly able to welcome people throughout the full course of their lives, from infancy through old age. We can say, with integrity, "neither height, nor depth, nor any other circumstance can separate our members from the love of God – or from the gathered community of the church."
West Point, NE: Trinity UCC
We continue to speak of accessibility.
North Fork, CA: Grace Community UCC
I think that we are the hope for people who are looking for accessibility. Many churches say "no" to any one who is different.
We are an open and affirming church
What UCC congregations are doing
La Mesa, CA: United Church of Christ of La Mesa
The following press release celebrates what we, as a church, have accomplished in this area: The United Church of Christ (UCC) Coalition for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Concerns conferred its 2007 Eleonore & Oliver Powell Award on the United Church of Christ of La Mesa (UCCLM) at the UCC Southern California Nevada Conference's Annual Gathering. The award was presented for demonstrating a vision of inclusiveness in living out our mission in the local community and commended our congregation for believing in, welcoming, loving and empowering all of God's children and for living our motto "Doing together what we cannot do alone." This award was a surprise to our congregation. Our pastor expresses our hope about who are welcome in our church. He says, "All people young, old, male, female, black, white, brown, yellow, single, married, divorced, widowed, gay, straight, conservative, liberal, moderate from all walks of life, for we are all created in God's own image. We are a truly diverse congregation who strive to love one another as God loves us. Our members live their faith and their commitment to God and extend God's extravagant welcome to everyone." Though not officially an Open and Affirming Church (yet!), our congregation's commitment to inclusiveness is reflected in its makeup. Among our members are gay and lesbian individuals, couples and families -- all fully involved in our programs and activities.
San Diego, CA: Mission Hills UCC
We voted to become an Open and Affirming congregation one year ago. Since then our membership has grown substantially. We have celebrated Pride Sunday, Coming Out Day, and National AIDS Day. We have instituted the Open and Affirming task force as a standing committee in our by-laws.
Kirkland, WA: Kirkland Congregational UCC
By trying to live up to the open and affirming concept by trying to live by our oath.
Dallas, TX: Central Congregational UCC
We are an open and affirming church to all God's people. We embrace diversity including gay and lesbian members.
Exeter, NH: Congregational Church of Exeter UCC
We have been an Open and Affirming congregation since 1995.
Seattle, WA: Fauntleroy Church UCC
We became an Open and Affirming congregation in 1996. We reaffirmed that stance in 1997. We perform same-gender covenant services. We participate in the Religious Coalition for Equality and have had a delegation for the last several years visiting our legislature on Equality Day.
Albuquerque, NM: Church of the Good Shepherd UCC
We have been Open and Affirming for several years. We are clearly one of the most welcoming and friendly congregations in the city. We are enthusiastic and exuberant in our welcome and have a good system for follow-up and assimilation. The key thing, however, is that our welcome is extravagant.
Norton, OH: Grace UCC of Loyal Oak
We have donated use of our Fellowship Hall and classrooms to organizations with members who are not necessarily members of our church, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Girl Scouts, Interfaith Hospitality Network (we house homeless families for a week at a time), the Norton-Barberton-Wadsworth Peace Group.
College Station, TX: Friends Congregational UCC
Through two years of purposeful dialog, education, prayer and worship, our church came to the shared decision to become an open and affirming congregation.
Dallas, TX: Cathedral of Hope
We are considered the world's largest LGBT faith community.
The Dalles, OR: United Church of Christ Congregational
We support those who are gay. lesbian, bisexual or transgendered (GLBT). We have become an open and affirming church.
Philadelphia, PA: Old First Reformed UCC
Since our congregation's 1995 vote to become an Open and Affirming congregation, we have welcomed many lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people to membership and leadership in our congregation. Our church has hosted a number of commitment ceremonies for committed same-gender couples. For years, we have had displays at Philadelphia's three annual LGBT festivals. Most recently, in response both to the 2005 General Synod marriage resolution and a proposed amendment to Pennsylvania's constitution to bar same-gender marriage, our Official Board approved a resolution supportive of same-gender marriage, and participated in a successful advocacy campaign to stop the anti-marriage constitutional amendment. We are currently drafting a wedding policy which we intend to be inclusive of same-gender couples. Future goals may include worship and support group gatherings for nontraditional families and partnerships with other LGBT-supportive congregations.
West Point, NE: Trinity UCC
We are always open and affirming, at present we have no known gay or lesbian members.
North Fork, CA: Grace Community UCC
Our mission statement says that we welcome all...and we do and have for a long time. We are in the process of putting together a class on Open and Affirming.
What UCC congregations hope for the future
La Mesa, CA: United Church of Christ of La Mesa
We want to do more of what we are doing! We are proud of and enriched by our diversity.
San Diego, CA: Mission Hills UCC
Mission Hills hopes for more outreach to the local GLBT community which is right next to us – to establish support groups for GLBT persons and to continue to advocate for equal rights in marriage for all.
Kirkland, WA: Kirkland Congregational UCC
We have hope about our future – hope to find more people to get excited by the growth of our congregation and our history as the oldest church in Kirkland.
Dallas, TX: Central Congregational UCC
Our vision statement was crafted in 2005 by church members. The first lines speak to a welcoming inclusive family of faith. The process of becoming O&A was filled with hope.
Seattle, WA: Fauntleroy Church UCC
We hope the national church will continue to be a beacon of light in the ongoing conversations – both ecumenically and politically – in the days and years ahead.
Norton, OH: Grace UCC of Loyal Oak
I would like for more of the UCC churches in my area of Ohio do the same types of things which Grace does.
College Station, TX: Friends Congregational UCC
We hope that all UCC churches, and all of God's churches, would become open and affirming – so that the term “open and affirming” need not be used for the sake of this issue being stripped of its negative power. Our GLBT children, after all, are not issues. They are children of God, people of faith, and members of our shared human family.
Dallas, TX: Cathedral of Hope
To help our heterosexual sisters and brothers feel welcome. Also to provide education and resources to help those supportive of the LGBT community better express how their belief and support are congruent with the Word of God.
The Dalles, OR: United Church of Christ Congregational
We hope the UCC will further educate people about the GLBT community.
Philadelphia, PA: Old First Reformed UCC
Our congregation has welcomed numerous LGBT people, some of whom have experienced considerable hostility in other faith communities. Our congregation has been enriched by their gifts and their testimonies of faith. Together we have seen that "God is still speaking," and that we can move beyond static understandings of Scripture and tradition to experience the love of God who constantly moves to embrace those who have previously been marginalized.
West Point, NE: Trinity UCC
We believe the church should truly be open to all.
North Fork, CA: Grace Community UCC
We think that open and affirming issues are becoming more and more significant, not just in the church, but throughout our country. We think that we as a church can be an example of that.
We are a peace with justice church
What UCC congregations are doing
La Mesa, CA: United Church of Christ of La Mesa
UCC of La Mesa members with special interest/involvement in peace and justice issues conduct programs at the church and provide information about them to all. Recent examples of these programs have included a showing and discussion of "The Ground Truth " and a presentation discussing the United State's policy toward the Middle East (included the speaker's experiences in Lebanon). Among the programs supported by UCCLM and in which members are actively involved are Habitat for Humanity, The UCC Coffee Project, Heartland Human Relations, Crisis House, Interfaith Committee for Workers Justice, Interfaith Shelter Network, Winter Shelter Program, El Nido Transitional Housing, International Relief Teams, Hesperian Foundation, Special Delivery, Planned Parenthood, Neighbors in Need, One Great Hour of Sharing and Heifer International.
San Diego, CA: Mission Hills UCC
We express the commitment through Bible study, preaching, and participating in social service agencies that advocate for justice and peace.
Kirkland, WA: Kirkland Congregational UCC
Our worship services have stressed the peace with justice theme.
Dallas, TX: Central Congregational UCC
Striving to live peace individually and collectively is our gift to each other and to the world. We have developed an Exploring Contemporary Values Forum where we strive to educate our congregation and visitors to injustices/issues in our country and around the world, such as Darfur, Wal-Mart, and Immigration issues.
Exeter, NH: Congregational Church of Exeter UCC
Having a sister church in Zimbabwe is a part of this commitment for us. Mission trips are part of this commitment. Our concern for Darfur is part of this commitment.
Seattle, WA: Fauntleroy Church UCC
Many members of Fauntleroy participate in the peace and justice network of the UCC. We are re-starting a Peace & World Affairs Task Force. We have had a number of study groups on various issues. Each month we send letters for Amnesty International.
Albuquerque, NM: Church of the Good Shepherd UCC
We keep the conversation open. Last Sunday we celebrated Memorial Day with the Justice and Peace theme. We made quilts for the vets, brought tons of underwear, t-shirts, and personal items, sang "Bring Him Home" from the musical Les Misérables. We sang about peace throughout the land! We seem to have struck a thoughtful balance between the warriors and the peaceniks.
Norton, OH: Grace UCC of Loyal Oak
Janet Dailey, our Social Justice chair for Grace, spends a lot of time each week helping the members get information and tools to respond to various causes that the UCC wishes to address. We have a Social Justice room and provide letters, addresses, information, and envelopes to make it easy for congregation members to take an active part in the activities recommended by the UCC. Our congregation has been very receptive.
Dallas, TX: Cathedral of Hope
We have an active peace with justice ministry that seeks to promote a world of peace, to call into account our politicians for decisions which exclude and continue to oppress, and to speak out against the current war and/or future wars.
Our church is also seeking to begin construction on a Peace Chapel that will be opened to individuals of ALL faiths and abilities. The chapel is designed to further bring together the body of Christ and the kin-dom of God such that we are one.
The Dalles, OR: United Church of Christ Congregational
On the first Friday of the month, we support our troops in a local peace march. We help our missionaries, and support natural disaster victims.
Philadelphia, PA: Old First Reformed UCC
We have not officially taken action to declare ourselves a peace with justice congregation, but we have taken some steps. Our congregation took down a longstanding flag pole (mostly due to structural deterioration) and replaced it with a peace pole. Members of our congregation have participated in peace vigils and other advocacy against the Iraq war. Locally, some of our members are involved in efforts to reduce the level of gun violence in the city of Philadelphia, particularly among youth.
West Point, NE: Trinity UCC
We have held prayer meetings and supported the Hispanic community around the closing of Tyson and people have stayed in town.
North Fork, CA: Grace Community UCC
We are affiliated with a group that donates books to mothers in prison. They tape the books and give them to their children so that the children can hear their mothers' voices. We have a member who visits people in prison. We donate to rescue missions who help the homeless.
What UCC congregations hope for the future
La Mesa, CA: United Church of Christ of La Mesa
Our dream is to continue to provide relevant and inclusive ministry in our community and the world. It is our hope that those who come to visit experience what "true community" is all about and that they, in turn, teach others to build community. We would like to be a "beacon of hope" for those who have never experienced unconditional love. It is our dream that our love reaches out not only our community, but our city, our state, our nation and the world.
San Diego, CA: Mission Hills UCC
We hope the UCC will continue to be a leader in justice and peace issues. We cannot give up our leadership in this area and must rely on God's grace to guide and empower.
Kirkland, WA: Kirkland Congregational UCC
As a congregation, we feel that we can stress to the community how our faith offers peace and justice.
Dallas, TX: Central Congregational UCC
Many of us participate politically by voting, writing, emailing to our elected officials through the UCC's Peace and Justice program and other justice-oriented programs.
Seattle, WA: Fauntleroy Church UCC
We hope the National setting can provide not only a prophetic witness, but also new resources to help us move more coherently as a congregation.
Dallas, TX: Cathedral of Hope
The Dalles, OR: United Church of Christ Congregational
The UCC will continue to educate the community and support our country.
Philadelphia, PA: Old First Reformed UCC
While our members hold a variety of views on what "peace with justice" means, our congregation feels it is important to seek peace – in our neighborhoods as well as internationally – and to work for nonviolent ways to resolve conflict. A major growth opportunity for our congregation would be formally to declare ourselves a peace with justice church, and to set up mechanisms to embrace and support, through prayer and fellowship, those who work for peace.
West Point, NE: Trinity UCC
We continue to support peace with justice and realize that justice is different for many people depending on race and culture.
North Fork, CA: Grace Community UCC
It seems that UCC is always on the leading edge of peace and justice issues. It has a history clear back to early American times. We are like a conscience
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The Rev. Dr. Jo Hudson
Rev. Jo HudsonRev. Dr. Jo Hudson is a spiritual leader, pastor, mentor, and community builder who serves as Senior Pastor of Cathedral of Hope United Church of Christ (UCC), the world's largest liberal Christian church with a primary outreach to lesbians, gays, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning people, their friends, families and allies.
Joining the Cathedral in August 2004, Rev. Dr. Hudson came to the Cathedral after seven years as pastor of Friends Congregational Church UCC in College Station, Texas. In February of 2005, she was overwhelmingly elected to serve as the Senior Pastor, making Cathedral of Hope UCC the largest church in the State of Texas, and one of the largest in the United States, to be led by a woman
A native Texan, Rev. Dr. Hudson received her PhD in Educational Administration from Texas A&M University in 1993 and graduated with honors from Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University in 1994. She was ordained into the United Church of Christ in 1997. Rev. Dr. Hudson is the former President of the South Central Conference of the UCC, served for ten years on the Board of Directors of the UCC Justice & Witness Ministry, has been elected to serve on the UCC Pension Boards, is a member of the Forum on Military Chaplaincy, is a member of the Board of Youth First Texas and the Board for the Center for Progressive Renewal, and currently serves on the Board of Eden Theological Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri.
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The Rev. Dr. Jo Hudson
Rev. Jo HudsonRev. Dr. Jo Hudson is a spiritual leader, pastor, mentor, and community builder who serves as Senior Pastor of Cathedral of Hope United Church of Christ (UCC), the world's largest liberal Christian church with a primary outreach to lesbians, gays, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning people, their friends, families and allies.
Joining the Cathedral in August 2004, Rev. Dr. Hudson came to the Cathedral after seven years as pastor of Friends Congregational Church UCC in College Station, Texas. In February of 2005, she was overwhelmingly elected to serve as the Senior Pastor, making Cathedral of Hope UCC the largest church in the State of Texas, and one of the largest in the United States, to be led by a woman
A native Texan, Rev. Dr. Hudson received her PhD in Educational Administration from Texas A&M University in 1993 and graduated with honors from Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University in 1994. She was ordained into the United Church of Christ in 1997. Rev. Dr. Hudson is the former President of the South Central Conference of the UCC, served for ten years on the Board of Directors of the UCC Justice & Witness Ministry, has been elected to serve on the UCC Pension Boards, is a member of the Forum on Military Chaplaincy, is a member of the Board of Youth First Texas and the Board for the Center for Progressive Renewal, and currently serves on the Board of Eden Theological Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri.
Contact Information
General Synod Registrar | 700 Prospect Ave. | Cleveland,Ohio 44115 | | synod@ucc.org
Powered by Convio
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http://www.ucc.org/synod/presenters/the-rev-dr-jo-hudson.html
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Cathedral of Hope Advent ads extend extravagant welcome
Dec 12, 2013 ... You don't often see advertisements for church, though, so the Cathedral of Hope in Dallas, Texas, is changing that this Christmas season.
www.ucc.org/news/cathedral-hope-advent-ads-12122013.html
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Senior pastor at Cathedral of Hope stepping down - Dallas
Apr 22, 2013 ... Jo Hudson, grateful for the opportunity to minister at the Cathedral of Hope in Dallas, a congregation of more than 4,200 members with a ...
www.ucc.org/news/cathedral-hope-pastor-stepping-down.html
.
UCC regional association recommends standing for Cathedral of ...
Feb 20, 2013 ... Cathedral of Hope-Houston (CoHH) started as a satellite congregation of one of the world's largest inclusive congregations.But in the nearly ...
www.ucc.org/news/ucc-regional-association.html
.
'Dates of Change' tells the stories of restoration, second chances ...
Dec 12, 2012 ... Behind each date there is a story. Behind each face there is a life changed. Cathedral of Hope United Church of Christ in Dallas, Texas, has ...
www.ucc.org/news/dates-of-change-tells-the.html
.
UCC church leaders shocked at treatment of local ... - Oklahoma City
Scott H. Jones, pastor of Cathedral of Hope UCC-Oklahoma City. Jones had been invited to deliver the prayer and serve as chaplain for the day by Rep.
www.ucc.org/news/ucc-church-leaders-shocked-at.html
.
Examples of Local Church Web Design
Hope United Church of Christ, Naperville, IL http://www.sharehope.org/ Trinity UCC ... Cathedral of Hope UCC, Dallas, TX http://www.cathedralofhope.com
www.ucc.org/webtips/examples-of-local-church-web.html
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UCC members appear on Huffington Post's most inspiring LGBT ...
Sep 18, 2012 ... Jo Hudson, senior pastor at Cathedral of Hope UCC in Dallas; and the Rev. William R. Johnson, founder of the UCC Coalition for LGBT ...
www.ucc.org/news/ucc-members-appear-on.html
.
Responses
Cathedral of Hope is an ecumenical body under one roof. Individuals from the Roman Catholic, Buddhist, Protestant, and other faith traditions gather to lift one ...
www.ucc.org/50/resources/responses.html
.
Congregational multiplication: Churches birthing new churches
Cathedral of Hope UCC in Dallas, having planted one congregation in Oklahoma City, now has the goal of starting five new congregations in five years. Two of ...
www.ucc.org/ucnews/june-july-2009/congregational.html
.
The Rev. Dr. Jo Hudson
Dr. Jo Hudson is a spiritual leader, pastor, mentor, and community builder who serves as Senior Pastor of Cathedral of Hope United Church of Christ (UCC), the ...
www.ucc.org/synod/presenters/the-rev-dr-jo-hudson.html
.
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About 295 results (0.22 seconds)
Cathedral of Hope Advent ads extend extravagant welcome
Dec 12, 2013 ... You don't often see advertisements for church, though, so the Cathedral of Hope in Dallas, Texas, is changing that this Christmas season.
www.ucc.org/news/cathedral-hope-advent-ads-12122013.html
.
Senior pastor at Cathedral of Hope stepping down - Dallas
Apr 22, 2013 ... Jo Hudson, grateful for the opportunity to minister at the Cathedral of Hope in Dallas, a congregation of more than 4,200 members with a ...
www.ucc.org/news/cathedral-hope-pastor-stepping-down.html
.
UCC regional association recommends standing for Cathedral of ...
Feb 20, 2013 ... Cathedral of Hope-Houston (CoHH) started as a satellite congregation of one of the world's largest inclusive congregations.But in the nearly ...
www.ucc.org/news/ucc-regional-association.html
.
'Dates of Change' tells the stories of restoration, second chances ...
Dec 12, 2012 ... Behind each date there is a story. Behind each face there is a life changed. Cathedral of Hope United Church of Christ in Dallas, Texas, has ...
www.ucc.org/news/dates-of-change-tells-the.html
.
UCC church leaders shocked at treatment of local ... - Oklahoma City
Scott H. Jones, pastor of Cathedral of Hope UCC-Oklahoma City. Jones had been invited to deliver the prayer and serve as chaplain for the day by Rep.
www.ucc.org/news/ucc-church-leaders-shocked-at.html
.
Examples of Local Church Web Design
Hope United Church of Christ, Naperville, IL http://www.sharehope.org/ Trinity UCC ... Cathedral of Hope UCC, Dallas, TX http://www.cathedralofhope.com
www.ucc.org/webtips/examples-of-local-church-web.html
.
UCC members appear on Huffington Post's most inspiring LGBT ...
Sep 18, 2012 ... Jo Hudson, senior pastor at Cathedral of Hope UCC in Dallas; and the Rev. William R. Johnson, founder of the UCC Coalition for LGBT ...
www.ucc.org/news/ucc-members-appear-on.html
.
Responses
Cathedral of Hope is an ecumenical body under one roof. Individuals from the Roman Catholic, Buddhist, Protestant, and other faith traditions gather to lift one ...
www.ucc.org/50/resources/responses.html
.
Congregational multiplication: Churches birthing new churches
Cathedral of Hope UCC in Dallas, having planted one congregation in Oklahoma City, now has the goal of starting five new congregations in five years. Two of ...
www.ucc.org/ucnews/june-july-2009/congregational.html
.
The Rev. Dr. Jo Hudson
Dr. Jo Hudson is a spiritual leader, pastor, mentor, and community builder who serves as Senior Pastor of Cathedral of Hope United Church of Christ (UCC), the ...
www.ucc.org/synod/presenters/the-rev-dr-jo-hudson.html
.
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Vimeo
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.
The United Church of Christ
ABOUT US
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FIND A
CHURCH
ADVOCATE
FOR JUSTICE
»
CHANGE
THE WORLD
»
NEWS
AND EVENTS
»
CONTACT
US
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CONTACT INFO
Mr. Daniel Hazard
Online Communications Manager
700 Prospect Ave.
Cleveland,Ohio 44115
216-736-2186
hazardd@ucc.org
Presidential invite
Home
Site Map
Privacy Policy
About Us
KYeP Signup
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Contact Us
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Copyright 2014 © United Church of Christ. All rights reserved.
700 Prospect Ave. Cleveland, OH 44115
.
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