October 1, 2022 Community Connections
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Ministry Training Programs
Rev. Arthur Ritter, Moderator
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September brought some exciting news for the NACCC. The Lay Ministry Training Program started its second cohort, with six new students entering the first level of instruction. The first cohort, which began in September 2021, continues into level two with nine students. The Lay Ministry Training Program assists those who feel called to ministry but cannot leave work or home for a formal seminary education. The program also helps churches who are unable to find a seminary graduate for their pulpits but still seek a person with some theological education.
Next, the Vitality Ministry Council, in partnership with the Interim Ministry Network (IMN), offered an online seminar on Transitional Ministry. Five students enrolled. We are thrilled to have IMN working with us to create a larger pool of trained interim ministers.
We hope that these programs will speak to the needs of our churches and ministers and provide opportunities for others to participate in the future.
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A Time for Nominations
Jodee Lord, Vice-Moderator, Chair, Board of Directors
Wendy Van Tassell, Chair, Nominating Committee
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The Nominating Committee is looking for 2023 nominations for our Leadership Teams. Positions scheduled to be elected at the June 2023 Annual Meeting & Conference in Milwaukee include:
- Board of Directors (4-year term)
- Annual Meeting & Conference Committee (3-year term)
- Growth Ministry Council (3-year term)
- Vitality Ministry Council (3-year term)
- Mission & Outreach Ministry Council (3-year term)
Committee chairperson Wendy VanTassell states, “The NACCC is strongest when it has a robust volunteer base representing the diversity of our member churches.”
We hope you will prayerfully consider serving the NACCC in one of the leadership capacities, bringing your diverse gifts, talents, and knowledge.
Self-nominations or nominations of others are welcome. Please visit the NACCC website for more information and the Nomination Form.
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New Opportunities
Blaine Simons, Congregational Foundation Board of Governors
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My church is going through significant changes. We are searching for a new minister and are selling the church building. Our membership is much smaller, but it is important to us that we continue to worship together. In order to make that happen, we will be sharing space with another church. Having been a member for seven decades, these changes are difficult. At the same time, I have faith that something positive will come from all this.
Is your church facing something similar or discussing new ways to worship together? If so, I suggest you reach out to the NACCC. Your Association can provide you with assistance and guidance, and help you explore future opportunities for new ways to worship together. The NACCC has been so helpful for us, as have other members and friends.
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In September, Debby Fulton shared plans to leave her position as Director of Development and Communications. Her efforts and strong background in development leave the NACCC and Congregational Foundation on firm footing for future fundraising initiatives. With gratitude for her more than six years of service, we wish Debby well!
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October begins with conversation at Pilgrim Congregational Church in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Mid-month, Ashley will attend the Iowa-Nebraska Association meeting. Seven congregations in North Central Iowa will host her for gatherings including Bible studies, worship, and pie-baking. Late October brings the Michigan Conference annual meeting with stops at four churches in the Lansing area.
Follow along on the Listening Tour Page
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National Association of Congregational Christian Churches
8473 S. Howell Ave
PO Box 288
Oak Creek, WI 53154
(414) 764-1620
https://www.staging.naccc.org |
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