Conference News

Prophetic Preaching on Christian Nationalism 

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Prophetic Preaching on Christian Nationalism 

A 6-week online course beginning March 5, 2025

At a time when many of our progressive values are being threatened and undone - racial equity, inclusivity, social justice, human rights, pluralism, etc. - how can we tell the Good News in a way that is truly 'good'?  Check out this brand new six-week course to help churches address the growing threat of Christian nationalism. Explore the distorted relationship between religion, race, and democracy that has been arising within conservative Christian circles throughout the last few decades. 

This course is offered by the Project Proclaim Partnership of the Southern New England UCC with PATHWAYS funded by the Lilly Foundation. Other courses beginning in February and March can be found on the PATHWAYS website, pathwaystheological.org. Visit their website to sign up for this course or others. 

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Important Update: New Standing Rule for Document Submission

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During our recent Committee on Ministry A (COM A) meeting, a new standing rule was adopted to streamline the review and decision-making process for documents submitted for our consideration. This new rule will help ensure sufficient preparation and efficiency in addressing essential matters.

Standing Rule:

Effective immediately, all documents to be considered by COM A concerning Member in Discernment (MID), Transfer of Standing, Privilege of Call, and 3 or 4-Way Covenants documentation must be submitted to the Chair and the Associate Conference Minister (ACM) at least two weeks prior to the scheduled meeting date.

This change will allow committee members to thoroughly review the materials and come prepared for meaningful discussion and timely decisions.

Thank you for your attention to this important update. Please don't hesitate to contact me or the Chair if you have any questions or need clarification about this new process.

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In Memoriam: Reverend John J. Allen

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In Memoriam: Reverend John J. Allen

"Well done, good and faithful servant; enter into the joy of your master." — Matthew 25:21

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Reverend John J. Allen, fondly known as Jack Allen. Jack passed away peacefully last Thursday. A beloved member of our community, Jack transferred into the Southwest Conference on February 14, 2023, and resided in Tucson.

In a recent conversation with his wife, Virginia Wyly, she shared that Jack deeply loved the United Church of Christ and its mission, which was central to his life and ministry.

Please hold Virginia and their family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. May God’s comfort and peace surround them as they grieve the loss of their loved one.

We give thanks for Jack’s life, ministry, and the ways he touched the lives of those around him.

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Job Posting: Grant Director, NM Conference of Churches

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Job Posting: Grant Director, NM Conference of Churches

Job Description

Grant Director: Thriving Churches Initiative “The Journey Project”

NM Conference of Churches

3-5 years Temporary Position

Salary $54,600 per year with 5% COL raise each year, Fringe Benefits at 25% of salary added to salary per year.

Part-time: 25-30 hours per week

 The Grant Director of The Journey Project will direct the Strengthening the Church Initiative for NM Conference of Churches until the end of the grant period 2027 or for extended period as approved by NMCC Board and the Lilly Endowment.

Click through for details.

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Equipping the Saints: The Church’s Role in Clergy Continuing Education

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Equipping the Saints: The Church’s Role in Clergy Continuing Education

“The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” — Ephesians 4:11-12 (NRSVUE)

The Apostle Paul reminds us that God calls individuals into ministry not only to shepherd and teach but also to grow in their own faith and understanding. This growth is vital to equipping the church to navigate a changing world. As the Body of Christ, congregations have a sacred role in nurturing the continuing education of their pastors, ensuring they remain spiritually enriched, theologically informed, and practically equipped to lead with wisdom and compassion.

Clergy continuing education is not merely professional development—it is a spiritual investment in the life of the whole church. A pastor’s learning fosters vibrant preaching, deeper pastoral care, and innovative ministries that address the needs of the community. Whether through supporting sabbaticals, encouraging participation in workshops and conferences, or celebrating milestones in learning, churches have an opportunity to be active partners in their pastor’s growth.

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Nollau Leadership Institute is Open for the 2025-26 Class

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Nollau Leadership Institute is Open for the 2025-26 Class

The Nollau Leadership Institute is CHHSM’s signature program with more than 250 attendees in its 20+ years. Enrollment is open and the short online application can be found here. We invite you to make plans to participate in next year's class by registering now. A limited number of tuition scholarships are available to help offset the cost of the program.

Grounded in the health and human service organizations of the United Church of Christ, this program offers a unique space in which to experience leadership formation. Each year, Nollau brings together a community of leaders committed to creating a just, caring, and compassionate world. Such values deepen during the program, as participants grow in their leadership skills from a place of belonging. Cultivating this connection between others, the world, and within themselves is the heart of the Nollau experience.

Click through to learn more.

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