First Church Phoenix is taking its call to environmental justice seriously. At the UCC General Synod in Cleveland in July, the national church showed the way, by passing two resolutions: “Free from Plastic Pollution”; and a second resolution, “Urging Planning for and Implementing Electrification.” Now the UCC environmental justice newsletter, The Pollinator, has published concrete actions that congregations can take to become greener partners with God's creation.
The Green Justice group at First Congregational in Albuquerque will continue its Year of Water with water activities for all ages after worship on Sept. 24. Folks will look at the microscopic life in a drop of water from the Rio Grande, build a gravity waterfall, learn the process by which city water supply is cleaned, calculate your water footprint, and learn to protect our local water supply. Water is Life!
As a result of an invited guest visiting the Black Mountain sanctuary and hearing their accompanist Paula play the piano, the church is receiving a gift of a baby grand piano! There will be a dedication service on Sunday October 8 during which folks will learn more about the history of friendship and relationship behind this generous act. The family donating the piano will be present. This is just one small example of what happens when we reach out the to the larger community around us and extend an extravagant welcome.
The Good Shepherd UCC in Sahuarita will hold a Taizé service on Thursday, October 12th which will feature meditative and prayerful music sung by worshippers led by a cantor. Rada Neal will be on the piano and Mengda Jiang, their new choir director, will lead the music especially written for Taizé worship. This ecumenical service begins at 5PM and includes candlelight, meditation, peace.
The first BINGO event at Church of the Painted Hills was a big hit! Great prizes, popcorn and beverages! Put the next round on your calendar now and invite a friend! October 4th from 1-3.
Monday Meditations at noon on Zoom is a great way to start your week. Guided meditation is led by Bhikkhu Vasu Bandhu, Arizona Faith Network’s Interfaith Manager, and guest leaders. Vasu Bandhu serves the Buddhist community as Bhikkhu (monk) in the Dhammapada Sangha (Zen Buddhism), assisting in the practice and teaching of the principles, ceremonies and rituals. RSVP FOR ZOOM INFORMATION
Casas Adobes will gather a team together for a Build Day for Habitat for Humanity on September 20th. Tasks will include interior painting, caulking, installing doors and trim.
Scottsdale UCC will join their voices with those who are observing "Banned Books Week" Oct. 1-7th, 2023. In solidarity, they are organizing a "Banned Book Read" in October. Interested in learning more about the movement? Check out this link: