CUCC Weekly eNews

(submitted by Shannon Core) Loaves and Fishes Ministry, Inc., a nonprofit organization, Chili Sale is Friday, January 29 and Saturday, January 30. The mission of Loaves and Fishes is to serve as an extended family to a group of at risk children through long-term, individualized support so the children succeed in school and society. Please order your quarts of meat or veggie chili, $10,00 per quart in freezer containers, by January 17, 2010. There is a cap on the amount available so place your orders early with Shannon Core, 846 0902, or on the sign up sheet on the Coming Events bulletin board in the hallway or e-mail Shannon (address in church directory). Pick up your chili at Hudson Memorial Presbyterian Church, 4921 Six Forks Road. Pick up Friday, January 29 (3-7 PM) or Saturday, January 30, ( 9-11 AM). I have been a volunteer with Loaves and Fishes twenty plus years and have witnessed the success of this valuable program .

The complete recording of the Christmas Eve service (5 PM) is now available on the music portion of the Media Projects area of the CUCC website. In previous years we had a "family service" primarily for children at 5 PM, and an adult service at 11 PM. This year the two were merged, and everyone seemed to like the intergenerational focus. An abundance of musicians participated in the service, and this recording captures the spirit of the evening. You can enjoy the service in its entirety, or you can pick and choose among the labeled selections. In addition to the beautiful music provided by a great variety of performers, there's a Christmas story written by Sheila Barrick and read by Sue Cottle, and the pastoral remarks of Pastor Steve Halsted.

Dr. Seuss explains Copenhagen http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3_RlKxz_ymQ&feature=player_embedded hilarious take on a serious topic.

Epiphany - the day we remember the story of the wise men's search for hope, discovered in a child. Epiphany Sunday, January 3, we'll celebrate the hope incarnate in the children born to us in 2009. Join us after traditional (10:30) worship for Epiphany cake as we thank God for Jesse and Ruth Ann.

Take a look at the fun and fellowship we had at this year's Christmas Party ( 3 short videos ) and then put it on your calendar for next year (2nd Saturday in December). Or if you did make it to this year's party, enjoy a quick reminder of the fun and celebration. (Photos are available via the Photo Gallery link on the home page at communityucc.org .)

I just noticed that Senator Hagan has signed on as a co-sponsor of S.1524 , The Foreign Assistance Revitalization and Accountability Act of 2009 .  This is the bill for which we made a Bread for the World offering of letters in May.  Please send Senator Hagan a quick note of thanks. Have a few extra minutes?  Contact Senator Burr , asking him to join as a co-sponsor.  This bill has bipartisan support because it truly seeks to build accountability for tax dollars spent and to make sure our foreign assistance helps people in need.

CUCC is a founding member of the new LGBT Center of Raleigh.  The Center is inviting LGBT-owned and LGBT-friendly professionals and business owners to be listed for free on their website's Community Resources section. Contact the Center at lgbtcenterofraleigh@gmail.com .

The new members who joined CUCC on December 13. From left: Ida Klages, Annemarie Evans, Marsha Tai.

The video of the Christmas pageant presented by the children of CUCC on Dec. 13 is now available. (There's also a link to it in the "Current Events" box on the home page at communityucc.org .) In keeping with the higher bandwidth that is now commonly available to most Internet users, we're ramping up the quality of the video that will be delivered in the media section of the CUCC website. This video of the 2009 Christmas pageant is higher resolution than we've opted for in the past and supports fullscreen viewing. The 30 minute video is about a 170 megabyte download, but for viewers with standard DSL or cable service, the video should play without significant delay and should play smoothly without stoppages. It does a reasonably recent version of Adobe Flash, but that version is now ubiquitous on PCs and Macs. And Flash now has the ability to display the high resolution videos that Apple's Quicktime has long supported. So the same video may be viewed via Quic...

If weatherizing and repairing homes is a ministry you'd enjoy, but you aren't wild about a week with teens , consider one of the Adults Only Weekend trips.  Read more below from our friends Bill and Rosemary Pate from The Prince of Peace Episcopal Church (Apex) - our ASP partner congregation.  Jane Smith can give you their contact information if you have questions.  The Pates are wonderful- caring, organized, witty, passionate about justice.        "Please mark your calendars and save the dates for the following Adult ASP trips. We leave on Thursday morning and return on Sunday afternoon. The cost is $105 per volunteer - scholarships are available. February 4-7, 2010 to the Guyan Valley Center in Brenton, West Virginia   This trip occurs two days after Ground Hog Day and regardless of the ground hog prediction, we are sure that it will be cold in West Virginia for this weekend. Come and see how people in substandard housing survive the ...

Link to video at WRAL.: http://www.wral.com/news/education/video/6532140/

The UCC has created a weekly Advent game sheet to print and has links to six simple on-line games that might be fun to explore with your child or grandchild this Advent.

(posted for Santi) Need some time to Christmas shop without the kids? CUCC youth (7th -12th graders) are providing childcare to CUCC children on December 13. For a donation to the youth program (whatever amount they choose), they can receive childcare following worship from 12:00-2:30 p.m. on December 13. We will order pizzas for lunch, play outside (weather permitting), and watch a Christmas video (The Little Drummer Boy). Parents, please contact Santi by email forsanti@aol.com or 919-961-8814 to RSVP with the number and age of children requesting care. Please RSVP by Monday December 7. Also, Santi will need adult helpers if anyone is interested.

I want to remind church members that there is a Congregational Meeting next Sunday, December 6 immediately after the main church service. Please plan to attend.

The Retirees will again this year be collecting and wrapping Christmas gifts for Meals on Wheels recipients. The deadline for contributions is Sunday, December 13.  D rop-off boxes to collect the items are in the narthex and outside the Bradow room. REQUESTED ITEMS: Fleece throws Household products (dish-washing liquids, window cleaners, paper towels, toilet paper etc.) Toiletries (hand lotion, shampoo, soap, tissues, and bathroom hand towels) Food items (hearty cans of soup, instant coffee, hot chocolate, popcorn, crackers, cookies, individual wrapped candy: both holiday and hard candy) Socks Puzzle books (large print) Umbrellas, radios Postage stamps Gift cards of small denomination (gas, Walmart, any of the fast foods)

"60 Minutes" will air a story on conflict minerals in the Congo TONIGHT, 7 PM. The Enough Project is encouraging people to watch the show and to invite friends.  John Prendergast of Enough traveled with the crew to eastern DRC when they filmed.

Be sure to check the excellent organizations at CUCC's Marketplace of Meaningful Gifts as you consider your Christmas gift list.  Community Outreach has vetted these organizations and been impressed at the excellent work they do on our behalf. I enjoy shopping at Marketplace, but occasionally don't find the match I need for someone.  If you find yourself in that predicament, consider  Global Ministries Alternative Gifts  .  You'll find ten ministries from around the world with a description of how your donation would be used (scroll down the page to find the ministries).  You'll find gift ideas from $2.00 to $3000.00.  These could be just the thing for family and friends who enjoy travel or have a connection to one of the countries.

Forum will NOT meet this Sunday, November 29. HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Numbers to think about this Thanksgiving (from NC Policy Watch ): Fitzsimon File Monday numbers By Chris Fitzsimon 49,000,000—number of Americans who could not afford food some time during 2008 (USDA, Household Food Insecurity in the United States, 2008) 16,670,000—number of children who went hungry at some point in 2008 (Ibid) 49,056—Number of households in North Carolina who could not afford food in 2008 (Ibid) 12.2—percentage of U.S. households who could not afford food in 2008 (Ibid) 13.7—percentage of North Carolina households who could not afford food in 2008 (Ibid) 3.9—percentage that food insecurity in North Carolina grew from 1996-2008 (Ibid) 1—rank of North Carolina in fastest growing food insecurity from 1996-2008—tied with Maine and Missouri. (Ibid) 24—percentage increase in monthly food stamp participation in North Carolina from August 2009 to August 2009 (State Health Facts, Kaiser Family Fund) 33—percentage of people in North Carolina eligible for food stamps who do not...

By unanimous vote on December 17, 1989, the CUCC Congregational Meeting adopted a Resolution on Being an Open and Affirming Congregation .  Over the years, our life together has been blessed by that decision and by the gifts and friendships it engendered.  On Sunday, December 20, we'll celebrate!  Following 10:30 worship join us for cake and conversation.  With this celebration, we are renewing our commitment "to continue to look for ways to address the needs and advocate the concerns of lesbian, gay and bisexual people."  Let us "[j]oin together as a covenantal community, to celebrate and share our common communion and the reassurance that we are indeed created by God, reconciled by Christ and empowered by the grace of the Holy Spirit."

Imagine twinkling lights, holiday greenery, animated conversation with an overlay of laughter.  Enjoying friendships new and long-held.  A break from shopping and Santa, traffic and cooking. Saturday, December 12, 6:00 PM Heavy hors d’oeuvres and entertainment RSVP to the office If you'd like, dress in your Christmas finery, whether a red vest, a wreath sweatshirt, or a taffeta gown.  Contribution for wine requested.  If you would like childcare, please call the office BY DEC. 5.

Program for Sunday, November 22: Tammy Martin, Chair of the Wake County Commission for Women .

You can support the NC Conservation Network and get some early holiday shopping done by bidding on some items on their Holiday Auction . Bidding ends Friday, the 20th.

Many thanks to all of you who have supported Jo and her family during the long illness of Jo's beloved sister Linda Tavernise who passed away at 4:30 AM yesterday morning with Jo by her side. Your thoughts, prayers, hugs, love, and e-mail have nourished Jo throughout this journey. In keeping with my habit of working through my own loss by making a video of the beloved, I've done so for Linda. While this is primarily for the family, please share with us in the celebration of Linda's life if you are so inclined. Quicktime version: http://web.me.com/lavon/videos/linda.mov Flash version: http://web.me.com/lavon/videos/linda/ (In the pictures of the three sisters, Jo is the youngest, Linda is the oldest, and Cindy is the tallest after they get to be 10-12 years old. There are also several pictures of Linda that include their only first cousin Marcella who is 4 years older than Linda and who is also now under hospice care and in her final days.)

(from today's Raise Hope for Congo email): Why is this a useful bill?  "Legislation in the US alone will not end the conflict in eastern Congo, but this bill would provide a crucial step toward the creation of a practical and enforceable means to ensure that the trade in Congolese minerals contributes to peace rather than war. This bill would also serve as a useful precedent for other countries to develop legislation for holding to account companies in their jurisdiction who may be fuelling the conflict in eastern Congo." "What will this bill do? This bill demands greater transparency and accountability from those companies whose products contain these mineral ores or their derivatives. The U.S. government would identify those commercial goods that could contain conflict minerals, approve a list of independent monitoring groups qualified to audit the worldwide processing facilities for these minerals, and eventually restrict the importation of minerals to those from ...

Rep. Jim McDermott today introduced a The Conflict Minerals Trade Act of 2009 .  This bill would help halt the use of conflict minerals from the DRC, starting a certification system and working to assist the victims of conflict mineral violence.  You can read information from his website. I wrote an email to Representative Brad Miller encouraging him to co-sponsor this bill.   I know Mr. Miller has a deep connection to human rights in the DRC and has shown leadership on human rights in the region, so I hope he will co-sponsor. Would any of you from Rep. Etheridge's or Rep. Price's districts be willing to write to them to encourage them to co-sponsor?  Follow the link to their contact pages. If any of you would be interested in exploring creative ways to encourage passage of this legislation, please let me know. Why support this legislation?  God's creation - the minerals of the Congo - is being abused and God's children are being wounded an...

Because of the death this morning of Jo Perry's sister Linda, movie night for Nov. 20 is cancelled. Lavon and Jo will be spending the next few days with family

We met Sandra Gourdet and her husband when she spoke at Forum on Palm Sunday about the work of Global Ministries in the DRC.  As Africa area executive, she is leading a trip with Susan Sanders, team leader of the UCC One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS), Amy Gopp, director of Week of Compassion (WOC) and Eyamba Bokamba WOC board member. They will be visiting projects supported by OGHS and WOC in the Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo. She arrived in Mbandaka on November 14.  You can read about her trip and how our OGHS donations are being spent. 

This winter join us as we try a new format for spiritual growth – an online Bible study using the lectionary readings for the week and “conversing” during the week through a blog. How will we do this online study? This online study is an experiment.  Taking a look at   CUCC Lectionary Study  might be the easiest way to understand what will happen. Here is how we will “meet.” 1) At a time convenient to you during each week, read Rev. Kate Huey's reflection on the United Church of Christ lectionary readings for that week. 2) Ponder prayerfully what you have read. 3) Engage in our conversation by writing an insight, asking a question, suggesting a reference.... Throughout the week, read the comments of others in the study and respond. When will we do this online study? I’m asking you to consider committing to participating for the six weeks from Epiphany (January 6) to Ash Wednesday (February 17). Then mark your calendar for a soup supper before Ash Wednesday (Feb. 17)...

Wade Avenue is being resurfaced at our church's intersection.  Be sure to allow yourself extra time to get to church activities.  Also, you won't be able to turn left across traffic into the Wade Avenue parking lot.

Our turkey dinner supports the ministries of this congregation, so your donation tonight is most welcome.  You can amplify that gift by also bringing a food item for the Urban Ministries Food Pantry.  Bring one of the following: canned beans (not green; yes - kidney, black, pork n beans, baked beans, etc) dried beans canned carrots canned fruit canned tomatoes cereal grits powdered milk peanut butter mac & cheese

As Carolyn and John requested, here are some simple steps to posting on either of CUCC's blogs.  If any of you try them, let me know if they work or if I need to make changes to make them clearer. Thanks for participating in today's "Social Networking & CUCC 101" workshop.  Your questions pushed me to clarify my thinking on how we'll participate in social networks in our ministries.  Looking forward to running into you at Whole Foods or Facebook!

You are invited to join others from CUCC who are carpooling to Durham to hear the excellent Common Woman Chorus .  If you were among those fortunate to hear the Chorus sing at our worship this summer, you know the concert will be amazing.  Our own Joan and Gretchen are singing (Gretchen has a solo in Arabic!). November 21, 8 pm, Eno River Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, Durham, General Admission:  $10.00 Donations will be collected to benefit the  Animal Protection Society and Durham Food Bank. If you would like to carpool, call Carolyn King.  If you are willing to drive (there are a few folks going who don't drive at night), Carolyn will help you connect. 

If you are staying for the Sunday, November 8, after worship "Social Networking & CUCC 101" workshop, remember to bring your lunch!

The next film in our foreign film series, scheduled for November 20, at 7:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall is Zelary , a 2003 film from the Czech Republic. Here's the storyline as provided by Netflix: This gorgeously shot World War II drama tells the story of a clash between two different worlds and two different people. Eliska, a nurse in a city hospital, donates her blood to save the life of injured mountain-dweller Joza, and the two form a strong bond. When the resistance group Eliska belongs to is discovered by the Gestapo, she's forced to seek refuge with Joza, leaving her urban life behind and starting anew in the remote mountains. This film is "R" rated and is (like our first film, The Lives of Others ) a bit gut-wrenching. But this film, like the first, is also a very uplifting film that illustrates how unexpected blessings can arise from apparent tragedy. Last year after John and Joan Little watched this movie at our house, John commented to Joan a few days lat...

If you have the flu, stay home.  Take care of yourself.  Protect the person who would be sitting next to you and might be immune-compromised. Call Steve Halsted to tell him you have the flu so that we can offer help (and also let your CUCC friends know the flu was in their midst). Check this blog to see if anyone could use your help with a warm meal or a few errands.  (We won't post names - just needs.)  Pray for those who are sick. Check this blog before going to a CUCC event in case of cancellation. For more details, read Taking care of each other during flu season .

Sunday, November 8, noon to 1:00 Bring your own lunch. Have you wondered why anyone would want to be a Facebook friend?  Does "blog" sound like something Oliver Twist was forced to eat?  Do you remember when only birds tweeted?  And what in the world is a social network? Join Jane and Lavon for a one hour introduction to how Community UCC is using these social networking tools in ministry.  For the first half hour you'll have the opportunity to see our church's social networking tools.  During the second half hour, Jane and Lavon will help you sign up for a social network if you would like to try one. This event is planned for the curious.  You will not be pressured to join any of these social networks.

Jonathan Yardley on Flannery O'Connor (Washington Post, 2005) Excerpts from Sally Fitzgerald's book of Flannery O'Connor's letters, "The Habit of Being" (pdf). This will be distributed in print at Monday Lunch Group on November 2. Time Magazine's review of Sally Fitzgerald's "The Habit of Being" A Good Man is Hard to Find (text) The Life You Save May Be Your Own (audio) The Life You Save May Be Your Own (text) Flannery O'Connor Banned in Catholic Parish Photos of Andalusia , the farm where Flannery O'Connor spent her life Brief note on Betty Hester Emory University unseals the 274 letters written by Flannery O'Connor to Betty Hester. Emory's announcement of the celebration. Critique of "Good Country People" Monday Lunch Group Schedule Nov. 9 -- Read ahead of time the excerpts from Sally Fitzgerald's book which will be distributed on Nov. 2. Also read the Jonathan Yardley bio and the Time Magazine Review of F...

Interesting article. On most counts I think she hits the nail on the head. Five Reasons Why We Don't Care About Climate Change http://www.huffingtonpost.com/lisa-bennett/five-reasons-why-we-dont_b_336190.html 1. First, from an evolutionary perspective, we are not programmed to take future threats as seriously as immediate ones 2. Second, it costs money to do some of the right green things. 3. Third, we have become so distanced from nature 4. Fourth, many of us no longer believe we can make a difference in the world. 5. Finally, we think we never have enough time

details of new poll here: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/10/22/steep-decline-in-american_n_330315.html

Is it any surprise that our fall picnic fell on a blustery day?  It followed Winnie the Pooh's birthday by a mere four days.  Inside picnics can be just as much fun as those outside as our 30 revelers discovered.

With temperatures predicted in the low 50's, brisk winds, and cloudy skies, we're moving our fall picnic to the CUCC grounds.  Eat inside or out.  Games are still planned for the lawn, Joan has a song to teach us, and we might even have a campfire! Bring your dish to share.  Come even if you didn't sign up.

Sunny day:  Jaycee Park Rainy day:  Fellowship Hall (we'll set up some tables and spread our picnic blankets on the floor) October 18, after worship Come even if you didn't sign up!

Our shelter at Jaycee Park is midway up a gentle, grassy slope.  Nimble footed folks should park at the upper lot (above the shelter).  When you enter Jaycee Park at the sign, take the drive to the left.  Pass the recycling containters, the ball fields, and the volleyball courts; you are driving the left half of a circle.  Folks who prefer firmer footing should park at the lower lot (below the shelter).  This lot is directly in front of you when you enter by the Jaycee Park sign.  The grass is in good shape and there is only the tiniest slope. Remember to bring:   Your dish to share, an activity you enjoy, and a friend. Optional:   folding chair or blanket, your own place setting (so you don't have to use the disposables) We'll provide:   water to drink, picnic tables, paper products & plastic cutlery. Sunday, Oct. 18, noon until you feel like leaving (but before 2:30) Sign up on the bulletin board or the poster in the fellow...

CUCC is looking for good homes for our excess wooden church school chairs.  Price:  $5/chair for CUCCers; $10/chair for your friends and neighbors.  The money will be used in the general budget. Here is how to order.   In the preschool room (the one with the play kitchen) you'll find samples of each of the four models.  On each chair is a sign up sheet telling how many of that model are available.  Just sign up, giving your name, contact info, and how many of that style you want.  Jane Smith will get in touch to arrange your pick up.  Checks are made to:  CUCC. Younger Elementary model - 4 chairs Older Preschool model B - 9 chairs Older Preschool model A - 13 chairs Younger Preschool model - 10 chairs If anyone is interested in painting a chair and donating it to the church auction, sign up to get a free chair.  Also, there are slightly wounded chairs which you may take for free - no sign up necessary.

Stillspeaking Daily Devotionals make a nice resource offered by the UCC. These are written by a variety of folks, so you never know exactly what to expect. But I find it a good way to jog myself into a different gear when I'm "stuck" at some point during the day. Subscribe here to get these daily via e-mail.

The second film in the foreign film series sponsored by the Welcome, Fellowship, and Growth Ministry will be the acclaimed British Film (1996) "Secrets and Lies" which was nominated for 5 Oscars. There may be disagreement as to whether this film is accurately classed as a comedy, but it is uproariously funny at times. Others might claim, however, that its poignant insights into race and class issues puts it on a different level from a movie that's simply funny. We had an excellent audience for the showing of "The Lives of Others" on Sept. 18. But we announced then that we were saving the popcorn for the more light hearted offering to come in October. So put the date on your calendar: 7:30 PM, Oct. 23, in the fellowship hall for "Secrets and Lies." You're bound to enjoy it. Even though the film is entirely in English, the blue collar Cockney accents are pretty tough to follow in places. So we'll probably choose to show the English subtitles duri...

The heated dialog about healthcare reform often divides Christians. For the past 40 years the abortion issue has done the same thing. There's an interesting switch in polarity now, however. When it comes to abortion, Christians on the "conservative" (whatever that means) end of the spectrum think they know what is right and are ready to force their conclusions on everyone else. Christians on the left advocate "choice" and have used slogans like "keep your hands off my body." Polarity is reversed in the healthcare culture wars. Now it's the left that knows what everybody needs and is pressing for the government to do it. And it's the right end of the spectrum that's squawking about choice and "keep your hands off my healthcare." Amidst all the hubbub, a curious story turned up on ABC Evening News last night. It was about groups of Christians who have organized their own "health care co-ops". The basic idea is that everyon...

Thanks to Dr. Sam Mozley for his presentation today on climate change with specific reference to impact in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Dr. Mozley provided us with a list of resources so we could read more about climate change and things we can do. Look for more action ideas we can take together in the coming months. All Things Congo and the Justice in a Changing Climate Steering Committee will be meeting and you are always welcome to join us. Meanwhile, keep working and encouraging each other!

Now on CUCC grounds! Brrr - it's chilly . We've moved the picnic to the fellowship hall and grounds.  Eat inside or out.  Games still planned for the grassy area and we might start a campfire in the firepit. Come to the CUCC after-worship picnic potluck. Noon to 2:30, Oct. 18 What you should bring: a dish to share decks of cards or lawn games a friend If you prefer, your folding chair or a blanket. What we'll provide: water to drink picnic tables paper products & plastic cutlery Feeling green? Bring your own cup, plate & cutlery.

Sisters in Spirit (SIS) is Community UCC's monthly gathering of women for friendship, fun, and exploration. SIS is changing its meeting times to the 4th Tuesday of each month, generally at 7 PM. Mark your calendar; bring a friend. The event/topic of the month will appear in the newsletter. Oct. 27 November 24 December 22 January 26 Feb. 23 March 23 April 27 May 25

*“*A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in.*”* —Greek proverb A reminder to come for "Green" Chat at 12:15ish Sunday September 27th in the Bradow Room at CUCC where we'll eat grapes and peanut butter sandwiches. We'll be discussing CSA's, metal roofs, personal example of home audit with what gets done in one and what gets changed, detoxing carpeted floors, "Green" reading we may be doing, doing an exercise together described in Sally Bingham's new book, and other "green" information you may wish to share or ask ideas about. If there are subjects you'd like to put on agenda for inclusion or if you can RSVP, that would be nice but not required... Happy green reunion and feel free to bring friends! Posted on behalf of Marty Lamb

HEALTH CARE REFORM This Sunday we'll discuss health care reform through a panel discussion led by Bill Wilson, Assoc. State Director of Advocacy, AARP, and our own Lavon Page who has weighed in on the topic on this blog. Come and share your own perspectives. As usual, Forum meets in Vaughan Hall, 9:15 to 10:15am.

Let us treat you to a light supper and good conversation on Friday night, October 2. Designed for newcomers to Community UCC, this evening will give you a chance to ask questions about the church and allow us to get to know you better. Come after work or school, starting at 6:00pm with appetizers. Supper will be served at 6:30pm and we should be done by 8:00. To make sure we prepare enough food, RSVP to the church office by September 29. Tell Carol if you have any food restrictions. We'll arrange for child care if you would like to bring your children (spaghetti is on the menu).

On behalf of the Communications Committee and the Welcome, Fellowship, and Growth Ministry, Jane Smith and I have been endeavoring to modernize our internal and external communications. We've had help from Cynthia Ball and Jennifer Wells. The purpose of this effort isn't to be modern or trendy, but to make the best use of present opportunities for both outreach and staying in touch with each other. But we recognize that old ways are often comfortable, and that sometimes change is hard. Others in the UCC have had similar experiences. Our own Southern Conference is undergoing change in its communications efforts. The present printed issue of "Southern Spirit," the newsletter of the Southern Conference of the UCC, is to be the last. The print medium is going extinct. Two old-timers in the Conference reflect poignantly on this change in this final printed issue. They are Vertie Powers, Associate Conference Minister, and Irwin Smallwood. If you find the move toward electro...

Our partner denomination at Global Ministries, the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), has a close working relationship with Disciples-originated congregations in the DRC. We celebrate with the Community of Disciples of Christ in Congo the appointment of Rev. Likafo. "The Reverend Likafo Ifonge Marie Louise was appointed to serve as the Supervising Minister of the Kinshasa District during the 22th General Assembly of the Community of Disciples of Christ in Congo (DRC) held in Mbandaka this August, 2009. Likafo is the first woman in the Disciples' church to serve in this capacity, and probably the first woman to hold this position among the approximately 70 member churches of the ecumenical body of the Church of Christ in Congo. "

Please remember that our Welcome Back Sunday Potluck will be held this Sunday, September 13, immediately after worship. Please bring a dish to share.

We want to invite you to hear a presentation on Climate Change and the Congo with Dr. Sam Mozley. The event will be Sunday, September 27, at 3:30pm at Community United Church of Christ. (directions) Dr. Mozley, retired Associate Professor of Zoology at N.C. State University, was trained by the Climate Project in Nashville, TN, in October 2008 to present an updated and re-framed version of the slide show Al Gore used as part of An Inconvenient Truth . His presentation will include new information on global clikmate change and special perspectives on the expected impacts of climate change on central Africa, in particular, the Congo River basin. The presentation will last about an hour. After the presentation we will have a potluck dinner starting at 5 pm. Bring a friend and a dish to share to the talk and stay for dinner. This is a joint project of Community UCC and The Good New Church's All Things Congo series.

"No one should die because they cannot afford health care, and no one should go broke because they get sick. If you agree, please post this as your status for the rest of the day." I, too, have joined those who posted this message as my Facebook status. I've also posted this on the Community United Church of Christ page for comments by the group. Why? On Swampland: a blog about politics (my first time reading there), bethnva said that the problem with the current debate is that we've forgotten this obvious truth because the news coverage is focused on the sensational falsehoods and side topics. And latinasoccermom pointed out that all the Facebook posts won't make any difference if we don't contact our legislators. So, once again I'm going to contact my legislators, this time with the simple phrase above. Because keeping things the way they are is simply not acceptable. They hear from the folks who don't like this plan or that provision. What th...

I found my imagination captured by the questions at the end of Steve's Aug. 30 sermon on being present to the Spirit . I plan to use them for reflection over the next few weeks. Steve gave me permission to post his notes in case any of you are interested, too. Do keep in mind that these are his notes, not the sermon as he preached it. If any of you decide to use the questions, too, I'd love to know of any insights that come to you. Perhaps we could "meet" here on the blog....

My proposal to slash medicare and medicaid programs. Hopefully not too simplistic. Everyone hates how medicare and medicaid costs are rising so fast. The way to eliminate them is to shift the risk to *private* insurers - and to spread it out over a larger pool of people. That way insurance can act like insurance. 1 in 6 americans doesn't have health insurance. This may be their "choice", but if they get really sick - who are they going to turn to? The american taxpayer. One solution is to have armed guards at emergency rooms preventing heart attack patients who cannot pay from entering. But there is a better alternative. The key question is: why should taxpayers shoulder the risk without also getting the benefit? It is in our own financial interest to have universal *private* health insurance. This way the taxpayers are not shouldering the risk. Insurance can act like insurance. The pool is large enough to handle the risk and the taxpayers are not on the hook for...

Invest an hour to understand the current situation in the DRC after the recent visit by Secretary of State Clinton. Not simplistic - deep discussion of a complicated situation. Gain insights into these questions What did Secretary Clinton promise and what is her level of commitment? What should be the role of the US (and other countries which benefit from DRC natural resources)? What is the larger geopolitical context which will influence what the US might choose to do? What models that have been used elsewhere might be effective in the DRC? The Diane Rehm Show, August 13, 2009 " Crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo " "Secretary of State Hillary Clinton calls the sexual violence in eastern Congo 'one of mankind's greatest atrocities.' An update on the security crisis and what the U.S. and other nations can do to help stabilize the Democratic Republic of Congo." Guests: Mvemba Dizolele, national fellow, Hoover Institution; John Prendergast, co-ch...

Time to catchup after the summer and to celebrate collecting the Neighbors in Need offering. Sunday, Sep. 13, noon Bring a dish to share.

KIDS IN CHURCH :-) 3-year-old Reese: 'Our Father, Who does art in heaven, Harold is His name. Amen.' ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ A little boy was overheard praying: 'Lord, if you can't make me a better boy, don't worry about it. I'm having a real good time like I am.' ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ After the christening of his baby brother in church, Jason sobbed all the way home in the back seat of the car. His father asked him three times what was wrong. Finally, the boy replied, 'That preacher said he wanted us brought up in a Christian home, and I wanted to stay with you guys.' ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ One particular four-year-old prayed, 'And forgive us our trash baskets as we forgive those who put trash in our baskets.' ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ A Sunday school teacher asked her children as they were on the way to church service, 'And why is it necessary to be quiet in church?' One bright...

Hope you have had a nice Summer! After the Summer break, the CUCC Forum resumes this Sunday, Sept. 6, and we hope you will participate in the programs. The September schedule: September 6 – Cy King, “The Peace Movement: A Little History” September 13 – Chris Fitzsimon, “The NC Budget: Realities & Inequities" September 20 – Health Care Reform (panel to be announced) September 27 - Joan McCallister, "Links Program: the needs of our Youth as they transition out of foster care”

CROP Walk is Sunday, October 4 http://www.cropwalkraleigh.com/

1) Pray. The United Church of Christ is calling us to P.U.S.H. - Pray Until Something Happens to bring health care to all Americans. 2) Be a public witness. One opportunity: Health Care Can't Wait rally to support affordable, quality health care for all Americans. This Saturday, August 29, 10:00-11:30am, State Capitol Building. (Look for Gary to join the CUCC contingent.) 3) Sign the Vision Statement for inclusive, affordable, accessible, accountable health care either online or after worship this Sunday.

The acclaimed German film "The Lives of Others" (Das Leben der Anderen) will kick off the foreign film series beginning this fall at CUCC. Each month beginning in September we'll have a Friday night film. Dates and titles will be announced at least a month in advance and will be posted under "Upcoming Events" on the front page of the church website, as well as in the newsletter and on the News and Chat blog. All movies will begin at 7:30 in the Fellowship Hall. "The Lives of Others" is set in the 1980s in East Berlin and won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film of 2007. This is a remarkably redemptive and moving film. Come and enjoy it with others. This film series is a project of the Welcome, Fellowship, and Growth Ministry. The purpose of the series is fun and fellowship. The series will include films from Germany, Netherlands, Great Britain, Czech Republic, Hungary, China, and South Africa.

Interesting posts on health care reform. Thought I'd weigh in. I am a free market democrat and so I am opposed to a government plan. But I am in favor of universal coverage. How can this be done? Right now there is no free market for health insurance. I am self employed and I basically have one choice - blue cross advantage. If I was a large employer, then I would have options. But for individuals there is not a well-functioning market. In addition, there would not be a free market for health insurance even if I worked for someone else. Of all the jobs I've had over the years, my employer has only offered me one and only one health care option (I don't count an adjustment in the deductible as "choice"). Want a different health insurance plan? Then you must change jobs! Even further, if on my present plan I decide to "choose" my doctor, and they are on my plan - then I pay through the nose (retail). So the insurance company determines who my do...

When I wrote yesterday's post Musings on healthcare reform , I thought I was out of the mainstream. Today I wake up and see that others are thinking more or less the same thing. So maybe there's a groundswell here. Today's If only we had to keep costs in mind column in the N&O is written by a local emergency room physician. While strongly supportive of reform, he starts out with ... I'm furious with President Barack Obama. When he got elected last fall, I thought we finally had a leader who was willing to tell us the truth about health care: It's just like everything else in life. If we want meaningful reform, we have to realize that we can't all have everything we want, at any hour of the day or night, always paid for by somebody else. Don't get me wrong. I think universal coverage is an idea whose time has come, within limits. In a wealthy advanced society like ours (current economic woes notwithstanding) everyone must have access to some essential se...

Here are two websites where you can sign a petition in support of a public option for health insurance ... http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/205855008 http://action.firedoglake.com/page/s/keepthepledge

I listened to all of the healthcare conference call yesterday. It left me with the impression that I've been developing for quite some time. There's not going to be any healthcare reform this year, and probably the best thing we can hope for at this time is no bill at all from Congress. If anything resembling the bill that's now festering in Congress passes, we're going to take longer to recover from its ramifications than will be required to start all over again on a reform effort at some point in the future. You see, my friends, what is emerging from all this is the sad fact that the problem is us. It's not the President, it's not Congress, it's not the insurance industry, and it's not the pharmaceutical companies. It's us, the American people. And by that I mean that what we say we want isn't attainable. Now admittedly part of the problem is the brokenness of political institutions. (How long has it been since Congress actually did something ...

(submitted by Jim Smith) This is from a friend of mine who has a lot of knowledge of the healthcare system and who I respect tremendously. I wanted to send you all this forward from The Institute for Healthcare Improvement. I have been involved with IHI for the last decade or so and they have made significant strides in enhancing the quality of care in the US. This particular article from yesterday highlights the success of multiple communities who have reduced the escalation in Medicare Costs through regional assessment of practice patterns and the restructuring of healthcare delivery in accordance with need. The President's agenda includes enhanced incentives to embrace the adoption of health information technology, provide coordinated care and assess health outcomes. The reasoning behind these initiatives is due to the overwhelming evidence that persons who are treated within the structure of a Medical Home Model where Mistakes are Minimized, have healthier lives and spend less...

This press release on the Living Letters trip gives info on work of the churches outside of the eastern conflict area. I appreciated widening my understanding of the background and focus of some of the work which would be supported by our money via Global Ministries. The WCC site also has a paragraph on the history of some of the churches in DRC (including the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) affiliate) as well as a list of the WCC connected denominations there. This is the best description I've seen anywhere.

Jo and I are pleased to announce a new grandnephew (the first after 4 grandnieces). Born to Niko and Shara in Peekskill NY this morning. No name yet. Birth was at home with help of a midwife.

Fall Church School Begins August 23 All 5th-12th graders are invited to leave worship with the children, after the children's message, for church school every Sunday, except for the first Sunday of each month. First Sundays, we do not hold church school classes, and we encourage all 5th-12th graders to attend worship, and either sit together, or with their families. There are rare exceptions to this pattern, advance notice will be given. One such Sunday is September 27, which is Arts in Worship Sunday; all 5th-12th graders will remain in the sanctuary for this creative worship experience. 5th-12th grade church school Sundays break down as follows... Some Sundays, classes combine for Stand Up for Your Rights curriculum led by Santi Matthews, upstairs in the Pilgrim House, otherwise... 5th and 6th graders form the Journey class, led by Santi Matthews: Beloved Community curriculum: Pilgrim House 7th-9th graders form the Confirmation class, led by Sue Cottle and Mike Evans: Confirma...

CHURCH SCHOOL The youth will have church school August 2, 16, 23, and 30. No YOUTH church school on August 9. In September, we will be back to our regular school year pattern pattern of youth church school meetings every Sunday except 1st Sundays, when youth are encouraged to remain in worship with their families. (There will be some exceptions to this pattern, advance notice is always given). YOUTH GROUP The CUCC Youth Group (7-12 graders) will meet from 12-2 for lunch and activities after church on August 2 and August 23. In September, we will return to our regular school year pattern of Youth Group meetings every 2nd and 3rd Sunday from 12-2. On 5th Sundays, the youth group invites 5th and 6th graders to join in and share lunch and activities from 12-2. YOUTH RETREAT August 14-15 is a creativity retreat for our rising seniors (Anna and Abby) at Cedar Cross Retreat Center, led by Santi Matthews and Margaret Hilpert. CHURCH WIDE EVENT Rising 7th and 8th and 9th grade youth (Carson, Ja...

Remember Rev. Sandra Gourdet who visited our congregation on Palm Sunday as part of our All Things Congo series? She is the Disciples of Christ minister who works with Global Ministries on our behalf in the DRC. I just received this update (including photos) on progress in the construction of Bolenge Hospital, a pediatric hospital in the DRC. I believe Bolenge is near the large city of Mbandaka in the northwest wetlands area of the DRC. With so much sad news from our friends in the DRC, I wanted to share this bit of hope with you.

The Board of Deacons would like to hear your ideas about how we as a church can provide opportunities for members and guests to get to know each other outside of church. Please fill out this survey , adding your ideas as well! If you think you or other members of your family would be interested in one or more of these types of activities, please send your survey to the church office.

Mark your calendar for August 23 when our children and youth start a new year in church school. If you have any questions about your child's class, talk to Anne Bailey (pre-, elementary, and middle schools) or Santi (high school). There is always something fun planned for the first day, so don't miss it! General church school information .

Come to the CUCC patio at 8:00 pm on Saturday night, Aug. 15, to enjoy the evening and the glow of a campfire . Steve will lead us in camp songs and Jennifer is bringing the fixings for smores . If you have a favorite roasting stick, bring it along. Better yet, bring a friend or two or three!

Want to share with EVERYBODY what you're doing or planning for CUCC? Try out the Twitter Chat that now appears on the front page of the CUCC website. Not for private info (obviously), but a good choice for a simple news blurb or comment about what you're doing or thinking that's church related.

Great post on clothelines by Jane. My approach in MacGregor Downs (Cary) is a "now you see them, now you don't" one. I have ropes on an unused portion of our back deck at a level where they can't be seen when not in use. I also make heavy use of a trick suggested by Betsy Towler, i.e. a rod over the washer and dryer on which I use coat hangers to dry shirts and other things that easily fit on a hanger. Together with a small collapsible rack by the laundry room, I actually dry most loads indoors. This requires very little handling, and the heat in winter and AC in summer speeds the process. These tricks enable us to limit dryer use to maybe half a dozen times per year. (For 25 years at our previous house we didn't own a dryer.) I really enjoy drying clothes "the natural way". Barb Pfaff, the friend who ran the lodge in Pindale WY where Jo and I always stayed (and who used clothelines for all the laundry for the lodge) once said, "Where do people thin...

Rep. Pricey Harrison sponsored a bill which would preclude municipalities for enacting ordinances against using an outdoor clothesline (neighborhood associations could still covenant against them). Unfortunately, the NC Senate Commerce Committee shot down her bill (see News and Observer editorial, " Hang ‘em high "). WRITE TO YOUR SENATOR TO MAKE YOUR OPINION HEARD. SEND A NOTE TO THE NEWS AND OBSERVER (click on "comments" at the editorial on the N&O webpage). Bans on clotheslines punish those who need to count their pennies and hurt the environment. Shouldn’t people be allowed to choose? A few helpful hints after two years of experimenting Which style? Umbrella style works well for us. I can fit three large loads on it and could hide undergarments in the center if our power goes out. We spent a bit more for a very sturdy pole (wet jeans and sheets are heavy) and haven’t regretted it. Another great feature: the pole can be removed from its soil-level base whic...

(Posted at the request of Peggy Rafferty by way of Pastor Steve) I have reconnected with the Coalition for Peace With Justice Chapel Hill and am happy to announce that UK free lance Journalist, Ben White will be speaking at Quail Ridge Books on Monday July 27th. He covers Palestine/Israel and the Near East. He is in America on a book tour. He has written a Primer on Apartheid and will Present that at Quail Ridge. Please join us on Monday, July 27, at 7:30 pm. We greatly appeciate your support and your tremendous leadership in peace with justice issues. Sincerely, Peggy Rafferty

Sunday, July 26 2 pm Bring your friends and family for movie and popcorn. This movie is adult-worthy and child-friendly . Erin and Judy Kiel will be your hosts. IMDb Review

The following is excerpted from an email written by Rebecca Bowman Woods, June 30, 2009 Synod adopts economic justice covenant resolution General Synod delegates adopted the measure Tuesday morning.... Introducing the Economic Justice resolution was Seth Carey of First Congregational Church of Glen Ellyn, Ill., who chaired Committee 2. He noted that the committee deleted specific examples of sustainable practices and instead asked that a task force, called for in the resolution, provide a list of those practices.

At the May 31 Congregational Meeting the congregation voted to send a letter of support for a resolution titled: An Economic Justice Covenant, which will be brought before the UCC General Synod in late June. We have received the following response from the Office of General Ministries. Letter from Office of General Ministries

Congratulations to Fawn Pattison and Grady McCallie on the birth of Ruth Ann.

I enjoyed reading this brief history of Moore Square which was published in Chris Riley's City of Raleigh Enewsgram. (If you don't receive this summary of recent Council and government actions, it is well worth the read. You'll also find details on upcoming events, road closings due to races and parades, environmental news, and citizens who are making a difference. Chris has an engaging style and you'll learn things not readily available on TV or in the papers.) I couldn't find the Enewsgram published on the City's website or would have linked directly to Chris's work. With the Moore Square redesign competition in full swing, reading about the history of the Square is timely. [To receive the Enewsgram newsletter, contact Senior Public Affairs Specialist Chris Riley at 919-996-3008 or chris.riley@ci.raleigh.nc.us ]

P 2 e , of course! Plan to linger after worship on July 5 for our annual watermelon seed spitting contest. Prizes are offered for distance in different age groups and by gender. So get busy practicing your technique. see more P2e 2008 photos

Bring your friends, your favorite game, and a sundae topping to CUCC's Game Night, this Friday, June 12, at 7 pm in the Vaughan Fellowship Hall. All ages welcome!

At the Congregational Meeting to be held after worship on May 31, the Social Justice Ministry is seeking a vote by the congregation to send a letter of support for a resolution titled: An Economic Justice Covenant , which will be brought before the UCC General Synod in late June. The resolution was drafted by the United Church of Chapel Hill and endorsed by the Southern Conference. Please read over the resolution and join us at the meeting on May 31.