This Week at MCC of CC

MCC - Moving Ahead and New OCLH Position!

2012-01-26T23:52:00.001-06:00

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Moving Ahead!

Wow, do we have a lot going on!

And we thought you might like to know about it.

Especially when you need to contact us.

Please be patient with us as we balance your requests with our other ongoing work

for you.

Keep reading for more information about events, improvements and opportunities.

Rev. Elder Dr. Nancy Wilson hosted another successful Leadership Mentoring Retreat last week! Congratulations to the following graduates:

Cathy Alexander - MCC NOVA (Fairfax, Virginia, USA)

Linda Brenner-Beckstead - MCC Omaha (Nebraska, USA)

Rev. Dexter Brecht - Spirit of Life MCC (New Port Richey, Florida, USA)

Rev. Joe Cobb - MCC of the Blue Ridge (Roanoke, Virginia, USA)

Rev. Catherine Dearlove - River of Life MCC (Dorchester, UK)

Rev. Tom Decker - MCC Toronto (Ontario, Canada)

Vickey Gibbs - Resurrection MCC (Houston, Texas, USA)

Phil Griffin - MCC of Topeka (Kansas, USA)

R. J. Hadley - Sunshine Cathedral MCC (Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA)

Richard Henry - Church of the Trinity MCC (Sarasota, Florida, USA)

Rev. Brian Hutchison - Sunshine Cathedral MCC (Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA)

Carmen Llanos - MCC Toronto (Ontario, Canada)

David Lord - MCC DC (Washington, DC, USA)

Imani Woody Macko - MCC DC (Washington, DC, USA)

James Newkirk - MCC DC (Washington, DC, USA)

Rev. John Paul Ransom - King of Peace MCC (Saint Petersburg, Florida, USA)

Rev Dr. Joan Saniuk - MCC New Haven (Connecticut, USA)

Rev. Peter Trabaris - Holy Covenant MCC (Brookfield, Illinois, USA)

Rev. Wilson and Angel Collie are representing MCC at the Creating Change conference this week and weekend. Also present are Rev. Candy Holmes, representing MCC and the National Black Justice Coalition, as well as Bishop Yvette Flunder, representing The Fellowship. Other MCCers present include Kareem Murphy (MCC Governing Board) and DeWayne Davis.

Rev. Elder Ken Martin fell earlier this month and broke two ribs. He is recovering slowly but surely. Extra prayers are appreciated.

Rev. Elder Lillie Brock continues her time of service as a Consulting Pastor to Resurrection MCC (Houston, Texas, USA). This remains a half-time commitment, in addition to her full-time role as an Elder.

Rev. Elder Darlene Garner is on sabbatical through March. (Is April here yet? *big grin*) Seriously though, we wish her the best and pray for a time of true rest and renewal.

The process of closing our Abilene (Texas, USA) office will begin in February, followed by a move of necessary items to the Moderator's office in Sarasota, Florida (USA). Friendly reminder: We will be sending out a notice with the new address when we are ready to receive mail in Sarasota.

Barb Crabtree, Jason O'Neill and Carlos Chavez are working diligently with Blur Advertising on a brand new website. We are creating a streamlined experience that is green, user-friendly and accessible. Think international, bold and forward-thinking! We are significantly updating content and technical capabilities. The non-programmers (read: ultimate optimists) in us are still hoping for a March launch!

In addition to the website, we are planning how to better market our MCC brand and conducting focus groups throughout February. More updates on that later this year!

The International Task Force steering committee (Mark Dalgleish, Jochen Gewecke, and Carol Scherfenberg) will be meeting next week with Rev. Wilson, Barb, Rev. Don Eastman, and some members of the Governing Board. We are grateful to King of Peace MCC for hosting this face-to-face meeting.

We will be releasing new resources soon! Rev. Elder Arlene Ackerman is putting the final touches on a sample policy manual. Vickey Gibbs has led a team of MCC Treasurers to create a comprehensive treasurer's manual. Board of Directors, rejoice!

Click here for the 2012 Program Book, which lists our exciting events for this year!

Curious yet?

The Office of Church Life and Health

Announces a New Position!

We are happy to announce a new job position in our office! Often, Elders have been the ones who are called on when churches are in need of some kind of intervention. Sometimes these interventions are needed as a proactive response and sometimes because of a crisis. Whatever the reason, being able to respond in a timely and professional way is crucial to the outcome of the situation.

To meet this need in a significantly more productive way, we have designed a position for an Intervention Specialist. To review the job description and learn how to apply, click here. Intrigued? Respond soon! Applications are due by 15 February.

If you, or those you know, have an interest in this position, please encourage them to apply! We are excited about the ways in which this will provide our churches with much better responsiveness in this arena.

Thanks for your interest and your help to spread the word!

Rev. Elders Lillie Brock and Ken Martin

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MCC | PO Box 1374 | Abilene | TX | 79604

MCC's Rev. Lee Carlton Retires

2012-01-25T23:03:00.001-06:00

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Celebrates

Rev. Lee Carlton's

Retirement!

Former MCC LA (California) Pastors: Rev. Troy Perry, Rev. Dr. Nancy Wilson, Rev. Lee Carlton, Rev. Don Pederson, Rev. Dr. Neil Thomas (MCC Anniversary 2008)

I met Lee Carlton at a clergy conference in Boston, Massachusetts, early in 1973, but we probably didn't really speak much at all until the very first General Conference I attended later that year in Atlanta, Georgia. Lee was newly elected the second pastor of MCC Los Angeles, succeeding Troy. He was so young and so gifted for ministry.

I remember Lee as deeply spiritual, passionate about both MCC and the gospel. He was thoroughly Pentecostal in his piety but open-hearted and open-minded about inclusivity, about dealing with sexism and racism, and so many other issues that could divide human beings or the Body of Christ. I remember the risks he took to leave MCC LA and move to Australia, to affiliate the first MCC there, and start the work in Sydney.

For a long time, Lee deepened his roots here in Florida, where I have now lived for a decade. His legacy and imprint are on many churches he pastored or served as an interim or temporary pastor. He is well-loved in our state and fondly remembered in many cities. He has stories to tell, including about the march for civil and spiritual rights ("the Trek") across Northern Florida, from Jacksonville to Tallahassee . . .

Lee has been a long time survivor of HIV/AIDS, and has experienced all the grief and loss, and also the miracles.

I know that Lee Carlton helped MCC in Mobile, Alabama, reach for the stars and grow beyond their vision for themselves. I treasure Lee's friendship, his values, and faith in the message and ministry that God revealed to Troy Perry, and to us. . .I know that in retirement, Lee will continue to love and serve our God and be a witness to the Holy Spirit's amazing work. . .

Rev. Elder Dr. Nancy Wilson

In order: Rev. Lee Carlton at wedding in San Francisco (California) in 1970s; Rev. Don Pederson with Rev. Lee Carlton as The Bugle Boys; Rev. Lee Carlton at MCCLA (Los Angeles, California)

Rev. Lee Carlton, you were among that great cloud of witnesses who first welcomed me to MCC in 1976. Through the years, I have admired you for the profound depth of your faith and for your commitment to carrying the Good News of Jesus Christ into all corners of the world. You have served MCC in our times of want and of plenty. Even at great personal sacrifice, you carried the liberating message of the Gospel to people who had never imagined that God's love could be broad enough to cover them. And so I thank you for welcoming me and for reaching out to others. Your contributions to our great movement will always be admired and remembered!

Rev. Elder Darlene Garner

Rev. Lee Carlton (MCC General Conference 2007)

Lee, you are a true MCC pioneer, someone I have looked up to with great respect. Because of your faithfulness and deep commitment to the call of Christ, thousands of lives have been touched, including mine. Thank you for being so faith-filled. Enjoy your retirement. You deserve some rest and renewal.

With love,

Rev. Elder Arlene Ackerman

Rev. June Norris, Rev. Lee Carlton

(MCC General Conference 1999)

Feel free to send your best wishes and thanksgiving for Rev. Lee Carlton's ministry directly to him at RevLeeCarlton@aol.com.

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MCC Staff Transition, FAQs

2012-01-21T15:57:00.000-06:00

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Staff Transition

In mid-December, the Governing Board and Rev. Elder Nancy Wilson announced some necessary staff reductions. If you missed that message or would like to see it again, click here. Since then, we have received feedback from some of you; we appreciate your thoughtfulness and expressions of concern. As promised, Rev. Wilson is following that announcement with more details about staff operations.

With fewer staff, we needed to make adjustments and shift staff responsibilities to provide essential coverage. Following is a description of these changes and the roles of our current staff by office and function. Please remember to hold us in your prayers as we go through this transition together, and we ask for your patience as we modify how we work and provide coverage while Rev. Elder Darlene Garner is on sabbatical.

Moderator's Office

The Office of Outreach is being consolidated with the Moderator's Office. Florin Buhuceanu (MCC staff in Eastern Europe) and Sharon Cox Ludwig (MCC staff in Africa) will report directly to the Moderator, Rev. Elder Dr. Nancy Wilson.

Rev. Elder Arlene Ackerman remains part-time with MCC focusing on resource development and will continue reporting to the Moderator. Rev. Ackerman will also begin working with the Office of Church Life and Health to support churches in the Pastoral Search process.

Linda Brenner-Beckstead has been hired to replace Connie Meadows, who retired at the end of December. Linda began her duties as Rev. Wilson's assistant this month and will also serve as project manager for the International Task Force (ITF).

Office of Development

We will hire a new Development Director in mid-2012. The new Director will work in our Sarasota office to provide more direct and consistent opportunities for collaboration with the Moderator.

Marina Laws will continue her current responsibilities with the Development Office (now reporting to the Moderator) and providing support for the critically-important work of the ITF. In addition, she will begin supporting the OFLD.

Office of Formation and Leadership Development (OFLD)

Rev. Dr. Mona West continues in her role as the Director of the Office of Formation and Leadership Development. Thanks to a generous grant from the E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation, Rev. Dr. Kharma Amos will continue in her role as the Associate Director of the OFLD.

Office of Church Life and Health (OCLH)

Rev. Elder Lillie Brock and Rev. Elder Ken Martin will continue as the Directors of the Office of Church Life and Health. Rev. Martin will move to semi-retirement and serve half-time with the OCLH. He will spend most of his time on program development, teaching at church summits, and continuing his work with the Asia Pacific Initiative (API).

Rev. Stedney Phillips will continue supporting the church Summits, will assume leadership of API, and will begin coordinating the Interim Pastor Ministry. Kay Hale will continue providing Administrative Support to the OCLH.

We will be hiring a staff person for the Office of Church Life and Health in the first quarter to close the gap caused by the change in Elder positions.

Office of Emerging Ministries (OEM)

Rev. Elder Darlene Garner will continue to serve as the Director of the Office of Emerging Ministries. Vickey Gibbs continues in her position in this office, developing resources for churches and emerging ministries. Angel Collie serves as our Trans* Ministry lead, now reporting to the OEM. Rev. Cristiano Valerio continues in his role assisting with support for our developing ministries in Brazil.

Rev. Hector Gutierrez has worked with Rev. Garner since 2003 as the Coordinator of Leadership and Church Development for Latin America. During this time, Latin America experienced very strong growth and stability. Rev. Gutierrez organized and serves as the Dean of MCC's virtual seminary for Spanish-speaking clergy candidates; provides direct support to 35 new church starts; and mentors the Pastors of the 10 affiliated churches in Latin America. It is our pleasure to announce that because of these tremendous contributions, Rev. Hector will now become the Associate Director of the OEM.

Office of Operations

Barb Crabtree remains the Director of Operations and is now based in Sarasota, Florida. During the first quarter of 2012, we will consolidate more of our operations in the Sarasota office. As a result, we will close the administrative office in Abilene, Texas.

Bill Hooper, the Board of Pensions Administrator, will be relocating from Abilene to Sarasota. Leah Sloan, who handles all of our tithe tracking and data analysis, will remain in Abilene and work remotely.

Our Accounting Manager, Tammy Erwin, has been a dedicated staff leader in the Abilene office and has served MCC with grace and skill. She has decided not to move to Sarasota. We are finalizing a job description to post soon. Tammy will work remotely until the new Accounting Manager is on board.

For the near future, all mail (including tithe payments) will still be sent to MCC, PO Box 1374, Abilene, TX 79604, USA. We will communicate the new mailing address when we are set up in Sarasota.

Carlos Chavez and Jennifer Justice jointly lead our conference planning work, which will be much of their focus over the next months as planning for General Conference XXV moves into high gear. In addition, Carlos will continue to handle all of our Information Technology needs. Jennifer will become staff liaison to our Young Adult initiatives.

Jason O'Neill will spend significantly more of his time working on our internal and external communications (including press releases, social media, marketing, etc), which has been identified by the Governing Board as a priority for MCC. So we are increasing the amount of resources we dedicate to this important area. As part of his duties, Jason will be working closely with the team from Blur Advertising, the agency we have contracted with to overhaul our communications, marketing, public relations and the way we manage our brand. Blur Advertising is headed by Rev. Joseph Tolton, who is a pastor at a Fellowship of Affirming Churches congregation in New York. For their work with MCC, Blur is collaborating with Ann Craig, former Religion Director for GLAAD and owner of Craig Media Strategy. Both Joseph and Ann know MCC well and have extensive experience in communications and brand management. We are energized by this new partnership. Expect some exciting updates in the coming months!

Network-Reporting Relationships

All US and Canada Networks and Network leaders will now report to Rev. Elder Lillie Brock.

Leadership of the Asia Pacific Initiative will transition to Rev. Stedney Phillips, with continued involvement and support from Rev. Elder Ken Martin.

The following Networks and Network leaders will continue to report to Rev. Elder Darlene Garner (Jason O'Neill and Rev. Hector Gutierrez are providing coverage during her sabbatical):

Europe (Western and Eastern)

Latin America and Caribbean

Australia and New Zealand

The Africa Network and Network leaders will report to the Moderator, Rev. Elder Nancy Wilson.

We are extremely grateful for our Networks and Network leaders, and especially the Network Coordinators (Terry Curry and Gordon McCoy) -- your work with churches is even more important in these times!

We greatly appreciate each and every one of you, as well as your generosity toward MCC and our combined work to change the world. Thank you for your patience as we implement all these changes. Questions can be directed to Transition@MCCchurch.net.

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MCC Headline News - New Format, 2012 Awards, and More!

2012-01-17T18:38:00.001-06:00

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NEWS BRIEF

2012 Program Offerings: It's Time To Be Brilliant!

Last week, we released our Program Offerings for 2012.

Click here to access that email release.

Click here to go directly to the 2012 Program Book.

THE 2012 MCC AWARDS

We want to recognize some outstanding people who continue to re-imagine the way they do ministry to live out MCC's calling in the world. We are proud to announce the following awards for this year:

      The Kerry Brown Award for Distinguished Lay Leadership - Chuck Phelan
      The Rev. John H. Hose Award for Dedicated and Faithful Service
         by a Clergy person in MCC - Rev. Dr. Neil Thomas
      The Purple Grass Award - Rev. Cristiano Valerio da Silva
      The Church Planting and Church Growth Award - Rev. Carol Rawlings-Chambers
         and Open Circle MCC at the Villages (Florida)
      The Ed Paul Award for Leadership in Transitional Ministry - Rev. Lisa Heilig
      The Youth Leadership Award - Katie Hotze-Wilton AND Rev. Joe Pang

Click here to learn more about the awards and each recipient's ministry.

LEADERSHIP PULSE

L.E.A.D. Retreat - Extended Deadline

The Office of Formation and Leadership Development is accepting applications for the second L.E.A.D. retreat, 17-20 February 2012. The L.E.A.D. Certificate Program provides MCC laity with an opportunity for spiritual growth and development of leadership skills. Persons who complete the L.E.A.D. Certificate will be placed on a Leadership List available to Elders, Senior Staff, and MCC Clergy for the purpose of creating a leadership pool from which to choose trained laity to serve in leadership positions in MCC at the local, denominational, and international levels.

To participate in the upcoming L.E.A.D. Retreat, individuals should complete the program application found here: L.E.A.D. App link. The deadline for applications has been extended to 20 January 2012.

The L.E.A.D. Manual, which explains the program in more detail, can be obtained here: L.E.A.D. Manual link.

To access our L.E.A.D. Brochure to print for your church, click here.

IN THE NEWS

MINISTRY FOCUS

ECUMENICAL / INTERRELIGIOUS NEWS

2012 WOMEN'S CONFERENCE

2012 MEN'S CONFERENCE

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is now embraced in churches all over the world and is traditionally celebrated between 18-25 January (in the northern hemisphere) or at Pentecost (in the southern hemisphere). MCC by our nature is a very ecumenical church since many of our members came to MCC from a wide diversity of faith backgrounds and traditions.

If your church would like to add an element of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity to your liturgy later in January or for Pentecost, the two links below provide a host of resources, including some in a variety of languages. The theme for 2012 is "We are all changed by the victory of our Lord Jesus Christ" I Corinthians 15:51-58.

From the World Council of Churches

From the Graymoor Ecumenical and Interreligious Institute, a ministry of the (Roman Catholic) Franciscan Friars of the Atonement

2-5 February 2012
Sarasota, Florida

Church of the Trinity MCC, in partnership with Metropolitan Community Churches and The Fellowship, presents the 2012 Women's Conference - Holy Trust: Together in the Struggle for Justice. The focus is women empowering women to assume leadership roles in their communities by developing the trusting relationships essential to achieving social justice. This conference is open to women, transwomen and those who identify themselves as women who are interested in improving their leadership skills and connecting with others in the common pursuit for social justice.

Keynote speakers are Rev. Dr. Elder Nancy Wilson and Bishop Yvette Flunder. For more information and to register, click here.

14-16 March 2012
San Diego, California

Join us for the Men's Conference at our host church, MCC San Diego. Our theme is Holy Trust: Building A Lasting Bond! It has been five years since the men of MCC gathered, and the Design Team has organized a wonderful gathering which will allow each of us an opportunity to re-connect or connect, share, bond and grow. There are networking opportunities for both clergy and laity to share together, as well as safe space to share separately in breakout session.

Early registration is $75 (USD) through 31 January 2012 and $100 (USD) thereafter.

To learn more and for updates, click here.

To register, click here.

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MCC \| PO Box 1374 \| Abilene \| TX \| 79604

MCC Program Booklet January 2012

2012-01-06T18:28:00.001-06:00

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This is a reminder that you're receiving this email because you have expressed an interest in MCC. Don't forget to add communications@mccchurch.net to your address book so we'll be sure to land in your inbox!

You may unsubscribe if you no longer wish to receive our emails.

Building Leaders, Building Churches!

In our efforts to provide denominational programming that equips and empowers leaders along with building healthy churches, we want to also provide you with a Program Book that gives you access to what is being offered in 2012. Click Here

You will see that there are exciting programs for Lay People, Young Adults and Clergy along with opportunities for growth within your Networks. We hope that you will go through the book, Click Here, decide what is most important for you and your church and make plans, in advance, to attend.

2012 is a good time to be intentional about Lifelong Learning and what it means to be the church in the 21st Century. If we fail to make these leaps, we will end up alongside mainline denominations that are largely in decline. So, this is our year to make the turn - to invest in MCC's ability to find the new edge and claim it. In order to do that, we MUST be equipped to minister in a new climate, new culture and new realities.

Make your plans today, Click Here, to engage these programs though out the year!

Pastors, we recommend that you personally encourage key leaders to attend the program that best fits their areas of service and expertise and engage in Network Gatherings
Lay Delegates, we recommend that you enroll in the L.E.A.D Program and encourage other Lay leaders to do so
Board Members, we recommend that you find the summits and other programs/resources that will better equip you to be an effective board member such as the Stewardship Summit
Network Leaders, we recommend that you register for the Webinars that are scheduled specifically for helping you enhance your effectiveness as a Network Leader
Young Adults, take the opportunities that are available for you to be together at the Young Adult Retreat, stake your claim in this movement, and enhance your own ministry potential
Programming Directors, facilitators, teachers, we recommend the Programming Summit as a way to learn new strategies for developing programming that builds spiritual maturity, taps felt needs and attracts new people
Facilitators, register now for the CLM Training the Trainer Program so that you can bring this life changing spiritual development curriculum to your local church or add to the number of facilitator who can provide it in your city
Pastors, please be part of developing, recruiting, discerning those who are called to professional ministry and encourage them toward the REVM Retreats (Readiness to Enter Vocational Ministry)
Churches, make sure that the appropriate people attend the Size Summit because those who have attended tell us that this is the single most helpful offering we've ever provided in MCC for church health and growth
Worship Leaders, register as soon as possible to bring your entire team to the Worship Summit as a way to invest in worship excellence and learn how to design blended worship

Make your plans now . . . don't put it off!!! Click Here We look forward to seeing you there!

Sincerely,

Office of Church Life and Health

MCC

MCC
PO Box 1374
Abilene, Texas 79604

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MCC Mourns the Loss of Rev. Mark Bidwell

2012-01-04T11:49:00.001-06:00

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We Bid Farewell to Rev. Mark G. Bidwell

MCC mourns the loss of Rev. Mark Bidwell as he transitioned from this life to the next on Tuesday, 3 January 2012. He was born on 28 December 1958. Mark was ordained into MCC in 1997, serving as the Senior Pastor of MCC Detroit (Michigan) from then until 2011. He served as an Interim Pastoral Leader for the 4 years prior and was active in MCC conferences. Mark was trained as MCC Supervising Clergy and "very much appreciated the opportunity to invest in the future clergy of MCC," as noted by Mark himself in his last clergy renewal form. He had "a great appreciation for religious diversity" as well. Mark also served on the MCC U.S. Board of Pensions from 2007 to 2011.

Rev. Elder Diane Fisher remembers Mark fondly: "He had a pastor's heart. He touched so many lives with his care at MCC Detroit. His ability to meet people where they were made him a great asset during a trip to Eastern Europe. Mark's greatest joy was his children."

Rev. Mark Bidwell and Rev. Axel Schwaigert - Bucharest (Romania) Pride 2007

The funeral service will be held this Saturday, 7 January, at 2pm at Lynch and Sons Funeral Home, 1368 North Crooks Road, Clawson, Michigan 48017. Visitation will take place prior, beginning at 12noon.

In lieu of flowers, Mark's family has requested that memorials be made to the Ruth Ellis Center, 77 Victor Street, Highland Park, Michigan 48203. http://www.ruthelliscenter.org/

As stated on their facebook page: "The Ruth Ellis Center provides long and short-term safe space and support services for runaway, homeless and at-risk LGBTQ youth in Detroit and Southeastern Michigan, and is the midwest's only agency dedicated to serving homeless LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bi-atractional, Transgender and Questioning) youth."

Mark served on their Board of Directors for many years.

Local press interviews Rev. Mark Bidwell - Riga (Latvia) 2007

Mark, you will be missed dearly. Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family and friends during this difficult time.

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Black History Month Resources

2012-01-04T07:57:00.001-06:00

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Black History Month Resources 2012

February 2012

In This Issue

Revised Common Lectionary

2012 Celebrations

Children's Activities

PAD Speakers

What is Black History Month?

Why Black History Month?

Revised Common Lectionary

FEBRUARY 05, 2012

Isaiah 40:21-31

Psalm 147:1-11, 20c

1 Corinthians 9:16-23

Mark 1:29-39

FEBRUARY 12, 2012

2 Kings 5:1-14

Psalm 30

1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Mark 1:40-45

FEBRUARY 19, 2012

Transfiguration Sunday

Mark 9:2-9

Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 or
Isaiah 58:1-12

Psalm 51:1-17

2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10

2012 Celebrations and Media

PBS Announces Programming Line-Up for 2012 Black History Month

The Twenty-Third National African American Read-In

Activities for Children

Family Education

Kaboose

Teacher Vision

DLTK Learning Center.

PAD Speakers for Black History Month

Contact the Office of Emerging Ministry for contact information for MCC PAD Clergy and other MCC PAD speakers who may be available to preach during February at VickeyGibbs@MCCchurch.net

Books

Hidden Wholeness - An African American Spirituality for Individuals and Communities
By Michael I.N. Dash, Jonathan Jackson, and Stephen C. Rasor

The Recovery of Black Presence - An Interdisciplinary Exploration
By Randall C. Bailey and Jacquelyn Grant

Soul Stories - African American Christian Education
By Anne Streaty Wimberly

Fulfilling The Dream - Confronting the Challenge of Racism
By Ronice Branding

Not Without a Struggle - Leadership Development for African American Women in Ministry
By Vashti M. McKenzie

I Want To Be Ready - Meditations Based on Quotes From Famous Black Persons
By Sheron C. Patterson

My Rose - An African American Mother's Story of AIDS
By Geneva E. Bell

African American Christian Worship
By Melva Wilson Costen

African American Special Days - 15 Complete Worship Services
By Cheryl A. Kirk-Duggan

Praising in Black and White - Unity and Diversity in Christian Worship
By Brenda Eatman Aghahowa

Preaching For Black Self-Esteem
By Henry H. Mitchell & Emil M. Thomas

Sankofa - Celebrations for the African American Church
By Grenae D. Dudley & Gayle Fielding Stewart III

Songs of Zion- A Songbook From the Black Religious Tradition

Listening In - A Multicultural Reading of the Psalms
By Stephen Breck Reid

The Bush Was Blazing But Not Consumed
By Eric H.F. Law

Embracing Diversity - Leadership in Multicultural Congregations
By Charles R. Foster.

Building a Healthy Multi-Ethnic Church

By Mark DeYmaz

Bulletin Inserts

Worship folder Inserts will be available soon.

What Is Black History Month

Black History Month is an observance of the history of the African diaspora in a number of countries outside of Africa. Since 1976, it is observed annually in the United States and Canada in February, while in the United Kingdom it is observed in October. In the U.S., Black History Month is also referred to as African-American History Month.

Black History Month was begun as Negro History Week by historian Carter G. Woodson in 1926. His goal was to educate the American people about African-American history, focusing on African Americans' cultural backgrounds and reputable achievements.

The History Of Black History Month

Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as "Negro History Week" and later as "Black History Month." What you might not know is that black history had barely begun to be studied-or even documented-when the tradition originated. Although blacks have been in America at least as far back as colonial times, it was not until the 20th century that they gained a respectable presence in the history books.

Blacks Absent from History Books

We owe the celebration of Black History Month, and more importantly, the study of black history, to Dr. Carter G. Woodson. Born to parents who were former slaves, he spent his childhood working in the Kentucky coal mines and enrolled in high school at age twenty. He graduated within two years and later went on to earn a Ph.D. from Harvard. The scholar was disturbed to find in his studies that history books largely ignored the black American population-and when blacks did figure into the picture, it was generally in ways that reflected the inferior social position they were assigned at the time.

Established Journal of Negro History

Woodson, always one to act on his ambitions, decided to take on the challenge of writing black Americans into the nation's history. He established the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (now called the Association for the Study of Afro-American Life and History) in 1915, and a year later founded the widely respected Journal of Negro History. In 1926, he launched Negro History Week as an initiative to bring national attention to the contributions of black people throughout American history.

Woodson chose the second week of February for Negro History Week because it marks the birthdays of two men who greatly influenced the black American population, Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln.

The History of Black History Month (Famous People, Women, Facts, Leaders, Events) - Infoplease.com

http://www.infoplease.com/spot/bhmintro1.html

Worship Resources to Inspire Your Liturgy

Metropolitan Community Church (scroll down to Black History Month)

The Practical Theologians (Church of the Brethren/Mennonite)

The United Church of Canada

The United Methodist Church

United Church of Christ

Council on Christian Unity (Disciples)

Churches Together in Britian and Ireland (Celebrates in October)

The African American Lectionary

Litany

One: I am

Ashanti , Zulu, Yoruba, Nubian, Masai.

All: I see you.

One: I am

King, Queen, Candace, Pharaoh, President.

All: I see you.

One: I am

Healer, Priestess, Shaman, Pastor, Physician.

All: I see you.

One: I am

Free, Captured, Enslaved, Transported, Transplanted.

All: I see you.

One: I am

Slave, Beaten, Raped, Run away, Survivor.

All: I see you.

One: I am

Baptist, AME (African Methodist Episcopal), Catholic, COGIC (Church of God in Christ), MCC.

All: I see you.

One: I am

Wilberforce University, Spelman College, Morehouse College, Texas Southern University, Howard University.

All: I see you.

One: I am

African chant, Slave song, Spiritual, Jazz, Rap.

All: I see you.

One: I am

Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Jr., The Little Rock Nine, Bayard Rustin, Barack Obama.

All: I see you.

One: I am

Mother, Brother, Cousin, Lover, Friend.

All: I see you.

One: I am

Family, Village, Community, Nation, Race.

All: I see you.

One: I am all this and much more.

All: I see you.

Written by Vickey Gibbs

Office of Emerging Ministries.

Lift Every Voice and Sing

On February 12, 1900, 500 school children gathered at a segregated Stanton School, the principal at the time-James Weldon Johnson wrote a poem to welcome the guest speaker Booker T. Washington.

It was called "Lift every voice and sing." What started as a poem ended as a song when Johnson's brother John Rosamond Johnson set it to music soon after. "Lift Every Voice And Sing" was labeled "The Black National Anthem" in 1919 by the NAACP and served as a liberty cry for abused African Americans everywhere!

Lift every voice and sing, till earth and heaven ring,
Ring with the harmonies of liberty;
Let our rejoicing rise, high as the listening skies,
Let it resound loud as the rolling sea.

Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us,
Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us;
Facing the rising sun of our new day begun,
Let us march on till victory is won.

Stony the road we trod, bitter the chastening rod,
Felt in the days when hope unborn had died;
Yet with a steady beat, have not our weary feet,
Come to the place for which our fathers sighed?

We have come over a way that with tears has been watered,
We have come, treading our path through the blood of the slaughtered;
Out from the gloomy past, till now we stand at last
Where the white gleam of our bright star is cast.

God of our weary years, God of our silent tears,
Thou Who hast brought us thus far on the way;
Thou Who hast by Thy might, led us into the light,
Keep us forever in the path, we pray.

Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we met Thee.

Lest our hearts, drunk with the wine of the world, we forget Thee. Shadowed beneath Thy hand, may we forever stand, True to our God, true to our native land.

Digital Sheet Music can be purchased here.

Instrumental music can be downloaded from iTunes or other online music stores.

Important Dates in February for African Americans
February 12, 1809: Birth of Abraham Lincoln

February 14, 1818: Birth of Fredrick Douglass

February 23, 1868:

W. E. B. DuBois

, important civil rights leader and co-founder of the NAACP, was born.

February 3, 1870:The

15th Amendment was passed, granting blacks the right to vote.

February 25, 1870:The first black U.S. senator, Hiram R. Revels (1822-1901), took his oath of office.

February 12, 1909: The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) was founded by a group of concerned black and white citizens in New York City.

February 1, 1960: In what would become a civil-rights movement

milestone, a group of black Greensboro, N.C., college students began a sit-in at a segregated Woolworth's lunch counter.

February 21, 1965: Malcolm X, the militant leader who promoted Black Nationalism, was shot to death by three Black Muslims.

February 07, 2012 - National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

Organizations Supporting the Sharing of the History of African Americans

National Trust for Historic Preservation

Maynard Institute for Journalism Education

The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture

Celebrating Our Diversity

Museum of African American History

National Museum of African American History and Culture

The King Center

Library of Congress

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MCC Headline News - New Moderator's Assistant, Exciting BOP News, and More!

2011-12-29T11:20:00.001-06:00

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Headline News

Tearing Down Walls. Building Up Hope.

MCC Invited to U.N. Commission of Human Rights Meeting:

FREE and EQUAL in

DIGNITY and RIGHTS

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton

MCC was honored to be one of 38 invited guests to the U.N. Commission of Human Rights meeting in Geneva, Switzerland, to hear U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's historic address. You can read more about it in Rev. Elder Dr. Nancy Wilson's article on Huffington Post entitled Occupy Queer Rights Around the Globe! or via MCC's press release.

Rev. Pat Bumgardner (MCC New York and Global Justice Institute) and Dane Lewis (MCC in Jamaica and JFLAG)

Welcome the New

Assistant to the Moderator

Linda Beckstead has been hired to replace Connie Meadows, who is retiring at the end of this year, and will be Rev. Elder Nancy Wilson's new assistant, starting January 3. She will also serve as the Project Manager for the International Task Force (ITF). Linda comes to us after an award-winning career teaching journalism in high school. She provided leadership to MCC Omaha in marketing, website development, and music ministry, as well as served as moderator on their board of directors. Highlights of her leadership include: co-planning two Heartland Network multi-state conferences; coordinating relief efforts for Spirit of Christ MCC after a tornado devastated a portion of Joplin, Missouri; and preaching at the MCC Region 8 conference in Denver (Colorado) in 2004. Linda and her partner Susie will be relocating from Omaha (Nebraska) to Sarasota. Her new email address will be LindaBeckstead@MCCchurch.net.

Exciting News from

U.S. Board of Pensions

The U.S. Board of Pensions (BOP) has been working very hard for nearly a year to bring two pieces of very exciting news to our U.S. clergy. Here are the main points:

No more annual clergy contributions!
Larger pension payouts!

Click here to read the details.

The Office of Formation and Leadership Development is accepting applications for the second L.E.A.D. retreat, 17-20 February 2012. The L.E.A.D. (Laity Empowered for Active Discipleship) Certificate Program provides MCC laity with an opportunity for spiritual growth and the development of leadership skills. Persons who complete the L.E.A.D. Certificate will be placed on a Leadership List available to Elders, Senior Staff, and MCC Clergy for the purpose of creating a leadership pool from which to choose trained laity to serve in leadership positions in MCC at the local, denominational, and international levels.

To participate in the upcoming L.E.A.D. Retreat, individuals should complete the program application found here: L.E.A.D. App link. The cost of the retreat is $475 USD, which includes tuition, three nights' lodging, and all meals. The location of the retreat at The Balcones Retreat Center, Marble Falls, Texas, is accessible from either the Austin or San Antonio airport. The deadline for applications to the program is 6 January 2012.

The L.E.A.D. Manual, which explains the program in more detail, can be obtained here: L.E.A.D. Manual link. To access our L.E.A.D. Brochure to print for your church, click here.

For more information or questions about the L.E.A.D. program, contact either L.E.A.D. Coordinator: Barry Hundley via barhun@aol.com or Nancy Maxwell via nancy.maxwell@washburn.edu.

Seeking MCC Stoles for the

Shower of Stoles Project

The Shower of Stoles Project is an extraordinary collection of over one thousand liturgical stoles and other sacred items representing the lives of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people of faith. These religious leaders have served in almost forty denominations and faith traditions, and come from six countries on three continents. This collection celebrates the gifts of LGBT persons who serve God in countless ways, while also lifting up those who have been excluded from service because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The Project bears witness to the huge loss of leadership that the Church has brought upon itself because of its own unjust policies. The collection tours constantly around the country, being exhibited in local congregations, universities and seminaries, and regional and national denominational gatherings.

You can receive news, notices of upcoming exhibits, and the Stole of the Week by following the Shower of Stoles Project on twitter @ShowerofStoles or via the SOSP website.

MCC General Conference

1-5 July 2013

Chicago, Illinois

It's that time again! Time to start thinking about General Conference!

Registration will be opening soon, so be sure to keep an eye out for the announcement. If you are as excited as we are about the conference and want to get a head start, you can make your hotel reservations at our special group rate, $125 USD (+tax) per night at the Fairmont Chicago. Click here to reserve online, or call 1-800-526-2008 and mention our group name (UFMCC 2013 General Conference) to lock in this low conference rate.

We are looking forward to seeing all of you in Chicago in 2013. Stay tuned for more details coming soon in the New Year!

Making Headlines!

MCC Invited to Historic U.N. Commission of Human Rights Meeting

New Assistant to the Moderator

Exciting News from U.S. Board of Pensions

L.E.A.D. Retreat

Seeking MCC Stoles for the Shower of Stoles Project

Moderator's Christmas Message

Support MCC With a Year-End Gift

2012 Women's Conference

2012 Men's Conference

Rev. Elder Dr. Nancy Wilson's Christmas Message

Did you miss Rev. Wilson's Christmas message? You can view it here:

http://mccchurch.org/christmas

Support MCC with a Year-End Gift

Would you like to make a tax-deductible donation to MCC to support our life-changing work around the world?

2012 Women's Conference

(Extended Deadline:

31 December 2011)

2-5 February 2012

Sarasota, Florida

Church of the Trinity MCC (Sarasota, Florida), in partnership with

Metropolitan Community Churches and The Fellowship, presents the 2012 Women's Conference - Holy Trust: Together in the Struggle for Justice. The focus is women empowering women to assume leadership roles in their communities by developing the trusting relationships essential to achieving social justice. This conference is open to women, transwomen and those who identify themselves as women who are interested in improving their leadership skills and connecting with others in the common pursuit for social justice.

Keynote speakers are Rev. Dr. Elder Nancy Wilson and Bishop Yvette Flunder. For more information and to register, click here.

2012 Men's Conference

14-16 March 2012

San Diego, California

It gives me great joy and pleasure, on behalf of the Design Team of the MCC Men's Conference, to invite you to join us for a gathering at our host church, MCC San Diego. Our theme is Holy Trust: Building A Lasting Bond!

It has been five years since the men of MCC gathered, and this Design Team has organized a wonderful gathering which will allow each of us an opportunity to re-connect or connect, share, bond and grow. There are networking opportunities for both clergy and laity to share together, as well as safe space to share separately in breakout session.

Early registration is $75(USD) through 31 January 2012 and $100 (USD) thereafter.

Rev. Dr. Robert Griffin, Convener

Vice Chair, MCC Governing Board

To view/print a flyer, click here.

To learn more and for updates, click here.

To register, click here.

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There is Still Time to Give to MCC!

2011-12-28T12:04:00.001-06:00

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Will you support MCC?

There is still time to join hundreds of faithful believers in MCC's life-changing work by making a special year-end gift so that this vital work can continue and grow.

Extraordinary people and events do not just happen. They happened because first a few, then hundreds, and today thousands of people, like you and I, made a commitment - personal and financial - to advancing MCC's life-saving, transforming mission and message. Give today online to get 2012 off to a strong start.

Make a believer out of me again this year as we get ready - together - to do extraordinary things in the name of a God of love and justice.

Grace and Peace,

Rev. Elder Dr. Nancy Wilson

Please consider giving by 31 December 2011. Click on this button to donate online:

Or you can copy and paste this link into your browser:

http://mccchurch.org/how-we-work/give-to-mcc/how-to-give-to-mcc/

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Christmas Messages from the MCC Moderator!

2011-12-22T23:08:00.001-06:00

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THANK YOU from the Moderator,

Senior Leadership Team and Governing Board

Our deepest thanks for the support and love and prayers we feel every day from MCC churches, pastors, members and friends.

We are grateful to God for our urgent sense of mission - to share the amazing good news of God's inclusive love. In the words of our youth:

I am inherent humanity.

I am radical hospitality.

I am compelling community.

I am MCC.

We want to know you.

All around the world today there is such demand for the kind of community we are becoming. Our charge is to remain relevant to the constantly-changing world around us and show them the many ways to be love and hope and peace.

Pray for us as we seek the Holy Spirit's guidance for the important, transitional year ahead. We continually pray for you, our on-the-ground partners in ministry.

A big THANK YOU for your generosity and faithfulness throughout 2011! As we look forward to celebrating the birth of the Christ child and a new year, we are excited about the possibilities for MCC and all the ways we continue to change the world!

Grace and Peace,

Rev. Dr. Nancy Wilson, Moderator

MCC's Senior Leadership Team

MCC's Governing Board

Christmas Messages from the Moderator

Rev. Elder Nancy Wilson has created a Christmas greeting, and she recorded her Advent message from 5 December at Sunshine Cathedral MCC (Fort Lauderdale, Florida). Rev. Wilson is also preaching at Church of the Trinity MCC (Sarasota, Florida) on Christmas Day, where her message will be broadcast live, as well as recorded for on-demand playback after the service. You are welcome to join us for any or all of these messages:

http://mccchurch.org/christmas/

Blessings to you and yours this holiday season!

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MCC Is Seeking Your Support

2011-12-19T11:10:00.001-06:00

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"Do you really believe there is a God who loves us?"

I can still see the young man who grabbed my shoulders and spoke these words to me, tears streaming down his face. He had given up on God and given up on Christians. I was invited to speak about religion and the Bible in Beijing, China, at the LGBT Center. This young man, like many people of faith all over China and the world, are hungering to connect to those who will believe with them. People like this young man, with his passionate, urgent questions, are making a believer out of me, all over again.

I want to share several encounters like this, that made a believer out of me all over again this year. As you know, I am an MCCer to the bone. In the very core of my being, I know that God called Troy Perry, and me, and you, to do this "new thing," that is always being made new again, person after person, country after country. And yet, I find that I can be amazed and surprised deeply all over again, by the enormous impact of the life-giving message of MCC on the lives of LGBT people and those who love and support us. Several things stand out:

Almost 40 young adults gathered in a room at the Sunshine Cathedral MCC in Ft.Lauderdale, Florida, and opened their hearts to me and other MCC leaders. They shared their passion for an even more inclusive church of Jesus than you or I could have imagined. Their passion for getting to know other young people searching for hope and faith is so much like the passion I felt as a 22-year-old just coming out and into MCC. Our amazing young adults made a believer out of me once again as I saw a secure MCC future in their passionate faces and ready hands!

MCC Young Adult Retreat 2011

Our Network in the middle of the US came to the rescue of Spirit of Christ MCC in Joplin, Missouri, after a horrific tornado. As neighboring MCC churches reached out to a hurting community and small city with MCC gifts and presence, they made me believe deeply that our Networks for care and connection embody the heart of revival in MCC.

The events and images multiply: marriage equality achieved in New York; a new church in a retirement village in Florida that has over 100 members in its first year; inquiries from South Korea and Ireland; dinner with talented, devoted MCC board members in churches in Birmingham and North London, UK; a new PFLAG meeting at MCC in the Dominican Republic; the President of Howard University School of Divinity speaking at our People of African Descent Conference! All these things that could not have been imagined 43 years ago when MCC started October 6th, 1968, have made a believer of me, once again.

I hope you have reason to believe anew today, for the present and future of a unique church called MCC.

But these extraordinary people and events did not just happen. They happened because first a few, then hundreds, and today thousands of people, like you and I, made a commitment - personal and financial - to advancing MCC's life-saving, transforming mission and message.

I invite you to consider joining these faithful, annual supporters of MCC by making a special year-end gift, above and beyond your regular giving, so that this vital work can continue and grow.

In these challenging economic times, we are the people for whom nothing is impossible! Make a believer out of me again this year as we get ready - together - to do extraordinary things in the name of a God of love and justice.

Grace and Peace,

Rev. Elder Dr. Nancy Wilson

PS...In addition to the 650 annual donors to MCC, there are a special 50 who have given $5, $25, $50 or more each month in 2011. These monthly gifts provided our denomination with urgently needed income stability in a very unstable economy. If you are able to add a pledge to give monthly to MCC in 2012, in addition to your 2011 year-end gift, I encourage you to consider it; it makes an enormous difference. Thank you so much.

Please click on this button to donate online:

Or you can copy and paste this link into your browser:

http://mccchurch.org/how-we-work/give-to-mcc/how-to-give-to-mcc/

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17 December 2011

2011-12-17T10:57:00.000-06:00

You have received this newsletter because you (or someone using your email address) requested it. If you no longer wish to receive these newsletters, send an email with the subject of "unsubscribe" to Newsletter@mcccorpuschrsiti.org Thank you

501 South Staples St.

Corpus Christi, TX 78401

E-News

17 December 2011

www.mcccorpuschristi.org

Church Office and Locher Food Pantry hours:

Monday, Wednesday and Friday 10:00am to 3:00pm

Telephone: 882-8255 email: mccofcc@gmail.com

locherfoodpantry@mcccorpuschristi.org

Board of Directors:

Vice Moderator: Mary Jo Smith

Clerk: Thomas Dollard clerk@mcccorpuschristi.org

Treasurer: Cynthia Velasquez treasurer@mcccorpuschristi.org

At-Large: Russell Young

At-Large: Sharon Scott

Sunday, December 18th: This Sunday will be our Christmas dinner on the grounds. There will be 2 hams provided. Please bring a side dish and join us for Christmas Dinner.

Dessert Auction: This Sunday will also be a dessert auction to help fund our 30th anniversary celebration. Bring your favorite dessert, your sweet tooth, and your money to help us have a fun and exciting fundraiser.

Sunday Lunch Schedule. The first Sunday will be a potluck and birthday celebration. The second Sunday of each month will be the "Lunch Bunch" we will all have lunch together at fast food restaurant. The third Sunday will usually be provided by Mary Jo and Diane and the Fourth and Fifth Sunday will simply be coffee and tea.

Locher Food Pantry : Our food bank pantry is very low. Please bring donations to church on Sunday. Peanut butter, rice and beans are needed. Cash and Plastic Grocery Bags are always welcomed!

Our 30^th Anniversary: It's less than 3 months away. We have invited the Reverend Elder Nancy Wilson to celebrate with us. We will be having dessert auctions and other "fun"raising events to help cover the cost of her visit. Contact any Board member if you're interested in helping make our 30^th anniversary special!

Opportunities for Service

Galatians 5:13 (Contemporary English Version)

"My friends, you were chosen to be free. So don't use your freedom as an excuse to do anything you want. Use it as an opportunity to serve each other with love."

Mortgage Retirement Committee: If you are interested in serving on this committee, or have any questions, contact any member of the Board of Directors.

Finance Committee: If you are interested in serving on this committee, or have any questions, contact any member of the Board of Directors.

Sound System: Would you like to assist with the sound system or the PowerPoint presentation (Especially when Tom and Andy are out of town)? Please see Tom, or Andy to sign up. Tom, Andy or Howie will train you before you're expected to fly solo.

Got Muscles? The Locher Food Pantry needs you on Wednesdays to help unload the food from the Corpus Christi Food Bank. If you're interested be at the Church on Wednesdays at 10:00am.

Want to be part of the Worship Experience? We need singers, ushers, acolytes and people to help set up and clean up (Alter Guild). See Camden or the Worship Team (Andy, Lisa and Russell Y.)

Sunday School: We are looking for adults who are willing to help teach our young people. If you're interested in the very important ministry, see Tom D, or Mary Jo

Ongoing

AA group: meets at the Church each Monday night at 8 PM

T shirts: We are selling T-shirts for $10 each. The sizes run from Small-3x to raise money for the Conference fund. See Andy. They make a great gift. We have 2 styles available, ask to see them!

Facebook group page: Our church has a "Facebook" group page. A good place to post church photos, prayer request, events, etc... The possibilities are boundless. Login to Facebook and search for MCC of Corpus Christi

MySpace page: MCC of CC has a MySpace page! Find us at http://www.myspace.com/mccofcorpus

MCC of CC Blog! This newsletter is posted in a blog each issue. Go to http://mccofcc.blogspot.com/ we are also posting UFMCC notices there.

Support MCC of CC with your everyday purchases! Turn your everyday spending into meaningful donations. With our custom credit card, cash donations for every purchase you makeplus a $50 first purchase bonuswill be donated to MCC of CC. There is an introductory 0% financing. Go to https://www.cardlabconnect.com/mccofcc to apply or learn more! If you get this card and use it once, then pay it off and cut it up, MCC of CC will still get the $50!

Finances

As it says in Mark 12:42-44: A poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which are worth a penny. Then he called his disciples and said to them, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. For all of them have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on."

Donate online! -If you have a PayPal or Alert pay account, simply send money to treasurer@mcccorpuschristi.org or click the appropriate button below. If you do not have a PayPal account, you can use your credit card at https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=HWB7L9PLBXBDJ Cut and paste the link if clicking does not work.

For PayPal payments: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=RHQY9482AWDZC

For Alert pay Payments: https://www.alertpay.com/checkout?BDVBfXhteHJleXVjdGUqQUFVXnZHRWw3fHQvamVpTmt9NXJxd0ZMQWhteGd5aHN2dGN0ZQA=

If you do not have and would like to have either a PayPal or Alert pay account, click the link you are interested in below and MCC of CC may get a commission:

Alert pay (preferred by editor, personal preference): https://www.alertpay.com/?Yxe%2fZIRsrFbS%2ffeN3AfnxQ%3d%3d

PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/us/mrb/pal=MP5445LVSFMNY

GoodSearch--Did you know? Each time someone does a search using GoodSearch, a charity gets 1 cent. If you put MCC of Corpus Christi in the "Who do you GoodSearch for?" box, MCC of Corpus Christi gets that penny. You can set GoodSearch as your homepage and/or default search engine. You can also download and install a Good Search toolbar to ensure MCC of Corpus Christi gets donations when you buy online!

Visit http://www.goodsearch.com/nonprofit/metropolitan-community-church-mcc-of-corpus-christi.aspx for more details!

Need some suggestions to search? Try these: Interim, Thanksgiving, Turkey, tithe, survey, dressing, cranberries. You never have to buy anything for MCC of Corpus Christi to get the credit. Happy searching!

Goodshop.com: Goodshop.com is a new online shopping mall which donates up to 37 % of each purchase to your favorite cause! More than 1000 great Stores including Old Navy, Dell, Expedia, Best Buy, eBay, Macy's, and Barnes & Noble have teamed up with Good Shop and every time you place an order, you'll be supporting your favorite cause. Be sure to put MCC of Corpus Christi in the "Who do you support?" box. And if you download the toolbar from: http://www.goodsearch.com/nonprofit/metropolitan-community-church-mcc-of-corpus-christi.aspx you will ensure MCC of CC gets credit from every store available when you shop online!

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MCC Is On The Move!

2011-12-16T05:06:00.001-06:00

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The Governing Board of the Metropolitan Community Churches has been working closely with the Rev. Dr. Nancy Wilson to honor our pledge to keep spending within income and lay the groundwork for our future. 2011 has been an extremely difficult year for tithe income from our churches, and we expect tough economic conditions to continue through 2012. In keeping with our commitment to financial responsibility made at General Conference 2010, we had to make some painful decisions around reductions, relocation and reorganization, amounting to approximately $300,000 (USD) in staff cuts.

Today, we are communicating the staff reductions. For effectiveness and efficiency, we are consolidating the Moderator's Office, Business Office and Development Office in Sarasota, Florida. In the coming weeks, we will send more detailed communication to describe shifts in responsibilities among staff as a result of these changes.

It is sad to lose beloved colleagues through realignment of staff and resources. We stand on the shoulders of so many people - Elders, pastors, leaders, staff members - who made a difference, who have been faithful and courageous, and who have blessed us for years, or in some cases, for decades. We know how difficult change can be at times. Please remember to hold all of us in your prayers as we go through this transition together with you.

The Office of Outreach is being consolidated with the Moderator's Office, so the Rev. Elder Diane Fisher will no longer be on staff. We want to express deep appreciation for Rev. Fisher's service as an elder for the past nine years. For the six years before that, she was the District Coordinator for Eastern Canada and the Northeast District. Rev. Fisher has served in many other denominational roles, including the Ecumenical Liaison for Canada, Chair of the Women's Secretariat, Vice-Chair of the Board of Ordained Ministries in Eastern Canada, as well as served on the Ecumenical and Inter-religious Team and Global Justice Team. Thanks to her tireless work in Eastern Europe, MCC became identified as the Human Rights Church, and she was the recipient of MCC's Human Rights Award in 2010.

"Rev. Diane Fisher has modeled courage and love for the work of global justice, and she has been an inspiration to millions around the world seeking human rights," said Rev. Nancy Wilson. "I know that Diane's legacy will endure and that her ministry will continue to change lives and history."

Rev. Fisher will continue to hold the title "Elder," as is the case with all who have served in this position in the past, and she will continue to be clergy in MCC. You can thank Rev. Fisher via email at RevDianeFisher@gmail.com.

Irma Bauer-Levesque will be leaving after nearly four years on staff. Irma oversaw a successful sponsorship program for General Conference, especially in working with our partner seminaries. She completed the work for the Elton John AIDS Foundation grant for MCC, obtained two successful grants from the Carpenter Foundation to advance our Office of Formation and Leadership Development, and introduced a Planned Giving resource. You can thank Irma via email at ibaulev@gmail.com.

We say goodbye to Ritchie Crownfield after nearly six years of faithful service. Ritchie's spirit of service and kindness is unparalleled. He has helped tremendously with General Conferences, Networks, support for local churches, and the OFLD. Ritchie's duties will be absorbed by other MCC administrative staff. You can thank Ritchie via email at rcrownfield@gmail.com.

Franklin Calvin is leaving staff after having served MCC in our business office for five years. We appreciate his dedication and devotion. Franklin is the partner of Frank Zerilli, long-time confidential assistant to Rev. Troy Perry, who retired last year. Franklin's duties will be absorbed by other staff and volunteers. You can thank Franklin via email at FranklinCalvin3@yahoo.com.

We say goodbye to Rev. Margaret Walker, with great appreciation for her work as the Interim Ministry Program Coordinator. Over the last several years, she has significantly raised the bar on supervision of interims, tracking progress of churches in transition, and developing reporting mechanisms, assessment tools and protocols. Along with her pastoral experience, Rev. Walker has brought to this program a determined work ethic and love of the interims she has supervised. You can thank Rev. Walker via email at revmwalker@sbcglobal.net.

In addition to these changes, Rev. Elder Ken Martin will be reducing his work schedule in 2012. Rev. Martin shares some of his reasoning behind his decision, "Next year, I will celebrate 50 years as a clergyperson and pastor. This seemed like the perfect time for semi-retirement." Rev. Martin wants to focus his work in the areas he loves the most - in teaching, mentoring and helping our churches grow and deepen their ministries. He also wants to take time to write and to work on several projects for MCC. We are grateful to Rev. Martin for his pivotal role in developing MCC's work with our church summits, and in teaching and preaching. He has also done groundbreaking work in advancing MCC's presence in Asia. Rev. Martin will continue to serve on the Senior Leadership Team.

As part of efforts to consolidate office locations in Sarasota, Barb Crabtree, Director of Operations, has relocated from Abilene. Other than office location, there is no change in Barb's position.

As we say goodbye, we do so with much gratitude for each and every one of our colleagues and friends, for your generosity toward MCC and for our combined work to change the world.

Remember, more details will be sent in the coming weeks regarding the realignment of all remaining staff and our vision for our continued ministry together. In the meantime, all questions can be sent to Transition@MCCchurch.net.

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MCC Call to Prayer for US West Coast

2011-12-02T16:28:00.001-06:00

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(AP Photo/John Antczak)

Dear MCC members and friends,

Please join us in prayer for people on the West coast of the United States. California was hit with hurricane-force winds that reached up to 140 mph on Wednesday night. The extreme winds reached as far as Utah and Colorado. There has been extreme damage throughout this area. More than 300,000 customers lost their power, and many are still waiting for it to be restored. MCCLA is currently one of those customers. They are planning to proceed with services on Sunday, even if without power. Damage at the church has not been assessed yet. Fortunately, there have been no reports of fatalities. More gale-force winds are expected this evening (Pacific U. S. time).

God of many names and God beyond naming,

Thank you for all the ways you watch over us,

Even when we are unaware.

We lift up all those affected by this storm

And ask for your peace and protection.

Your presence and your love are requested

And appreciated during times like these.

Amen.

Grace and Peace,

Rev. Dr. Nancy Wilson

Moderator

(AP Photo/Mike Meadows)

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New MCC Email Address

2011-12-01T16:09:00.001-06:00

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Introducing (drum roll please...)

Donate@MCCchurch.net

Donate@MCCchurch.net is MCC's new email address for online fund development. The new software behind this address not only will connect our website giving pages and online appeal links directly to MCC's central database for efficiency and accuracy, but it will also help us integrate all the ways you engage the denomination, in one central place. Registrations, clergy license renewals, communications contact information and giving history are all in the process of being consolidated into this new data system.

Some of you may have received a mysterious email from Donate@MCCchurch.net earlier this week. We were testing the software and apologize for including you in our learning curve. In the weeks ahead however, we may contact you to make sure we have your current address, email and phone numbers so we can deliver the resources you want and need, as well as inform you about MCC's most urgent priorities. We also encourage you to contact us if you receive mail or email with outdated or incomplete information so we can make all the necessary updates and corrections.

Databases aren't particularly sexy, but when they work well to connect, resource and mobilize us...it's a beautiful thing. Thank you for your patience and your help.

Blessings from the Office of Development team,

Irma Bauer Levesque

Director of Development

IrmaBauerLevesque@MCCchurch.net

Marina Laws

Program Support - Fund Development and International Task Force

MarinaLaws@MCCchurch.net

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MCC Headline News - December deadlines and a LIVE Christmas message from the Moderator

2011-11-29T11:08:00.001-06:00

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Headline News

Tearing Down Walls. Building Up Hope.

2012 Leadership Mentoring Retreat

(Deadline: 1 December 2011)

16-19 January 2012

DaySpring Conference Center

Ellenton, Florida

What is that nagging sensation??

Is the Holy Spirit urging you to join with others who want to change lives and change history?

Are you in need of inspiration and re-direction in your ministry, whether as a layperson or as clergy?

Would you enjoy hearing Rev. Elders Nancy Wilson and Don Eastman tell unpublished stories of MCC folklore?

Have you always felt a call beyond the local church to connect the global to the local?

THEN JOIN US . . .

Click here for details about the 2012 Leadership Mentoring Retreat and to learn how to apply. Application must be received by this Thursday, 1 December 2011.

U.S. and Canada Clergy License Renewal

(Deadline: 1 December 2011)

Dear Clergy in the U.S. and Canada,

It is time to renew your License to Practice for 2012. The fee for your 2012 License is $175 USD, along with your completed form, is due by 1 December 2011. After 1 December, late fees will apply:

2 December 2011 - 29 February 2012 = $225 USD

1 March 2012 and beyond = $300 USD

This year, you will be able to complete 90% of the license renewal process online! Please click here to begin completion of your form and to pay online. If you wish to pay by check, you can also download and print the form at this link and mail it in with your check.

Peace,

Rev. Mona West, Ph.D

Director of Formation and Leadership Development

1 December 2011

If you missed our announcement a couple weeks ago...

The first World AIDS Day happened because of a Metropolitan Community Church. Click here to read a statement by Rev. Elder Diane Fisher, Director of Outreach.

Click here for a video from our Moderator, Rev. Dr. Nancy Wilson. We encourage you to use it during your worship service.

Click here for prayers written by members of our Outreach Health & Wholeness Team.

Click here for UNAIDS' Strategy Goals by 2015, as referenced in Rev. Elder Fisher's letter and Rev. Elder Wilson's video.

Click here for more information about World AIDS Day.

Click here for the official WAD campaign website.

Click here for resources from the official WAD campaign. For resources specific to people of faith, click here.

Tweet with hashtag #WAD2011.

Next Elder Sabbatical

Rev. Elder Darlene Garner is eligible for her sabbatical, per MCC's by-laws. Her sabbatical will be January-March 2012. Please keep her in your prayers during this time of rest and spiritual renewal.

The Office of Formation and Leadership Development is pleased to announce the second L.E.A.D. retreat, 17-20 February 2012. The L.E.A.D. (Laity Empowered for Active Discipleship) Certificate Program provides MCC laity with an opportunity for spiritual growth and the development of leadership skills. Persons who complete the L.E.A.D. Certificate will be placed on a Leadership List available to Elders, Senior Staff, and MCC Clergy for the purpose of creating a leadership pool from which to choose trained laity to serve in leadership positions in MCC at the local, denominational, and international levels.

Twelve persons were selected for the first retreat in August of 2011, and since that time, they have been actively pursuing their certificate requirements.

The number of participants for the L.E.A.D. retreat is approximately 20 individuals. The L.E.A.D. Manual, which explains the program in more detail, can be obtained here: L.E.A.D. Manual link. To access our L.E.A.D. Brochure to print for your church, click here.

For more information or questions about the L.E.A.D. program, contact either L.E.A.D. Coordinator: Barry Hundley via barhun@aol.com or Nancy Maxwell via nancy.maxwell@washburn.edu.

Making Headlines!

2012 Leadership Mentoring Retreat

U.S. and Canada Clergy Renewal

World AIDS Day (1 December 2011)

Next Elder Sabbatical

L.E.A.D. Retreat

Senior Leadership Team Meeting

Rev. Elder Dr. Nancy Wilson's Christmas Message

2012 Women's Conference

2012 Men's Conference

Senior Leadership Team Meeting

Please pray for our Elders and Senior Leadership Team as they gather 2-11 December 2011 in Austin, Texas, at the home of Rev. Elder Ken Martin (and his partner Tom) to strategize for 2012 and beyond.

Rev. Elder Dr. Nancy Wilson's Christmas Message

Be watching in the next issue of Headline News. We will be announcing how to view Nancy's Christmas message LIVE. She will be preaching at Church of the Trinity MCC (Sarasota, Florida) on Christmas day.

2012 Women's Conference

(Extended Deadline:

30 November 2011)

2-5 February 2012

Sarasota, Florida

Church of the Trinity MCC (Sarasota, Florida), in partnership with

Keynote speakers are Rev. Dr. Elder Nancy Wilson and Bishop Yvette Flunder. For more information and to register, click here.

Early registration deadline extended. Sign up by 30 November 2011 to receive 10% off.

2012 Men's Conference

14-16 March 2012

San Diego, California

Early registration is $75.00 (USD) through 31 January 2012, and $100.00 (USD) thereafter.

Rev. Dr. Robert Griffin, Convener

Vice Chair, MCC Governing Board

To view/print a flyer with all the details, click here.

To learn more, and for updates, click here.

To register, click here.

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Advent: A Video Message from MCC's Moderator

2011-11-22T21:03:00.001-06:00

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Advent 2011

Rev. Elder Dr. Nancy Wilson, Moderator of MCC, invites you to watch her Advent greeting. Churches are welcome to show this video during worship services.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XmRbKv0ZSwI&feature=youtu.be

Friendly reminder: Pray about your participation in the upcoming Leadership Mentoring Retreat. Applications are due 1 December 2011. Details can be found in past issues of Headline News, as well as in the upcoming issue scheduled for release early next week. You can also email

JasonONeill@MCCchurch.net for details.

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