Penn Northeast Conference UCC, 431 Delaware Ave., Palmerton, PA 18071
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Letter from Bonnie
Dear Friends,
What a tumultuous couple of weeks we have had! Within our conference we prepared for, conducted, and have begun evaluating our 2021 Spring Conference Meeting. Please be sure to share your perspectives on the meeting with us. We welcome your feedback.
The pandemic continues ravaging populations, hundreds of thousands of families affected by the disease or the losses resulting from the pandemic. We hold them in our prayers in these difficult days.
On the local, state, and national scene more than 48 mass shootings have occurred in the last 45 days. That is more than one a day. Something must change and our political and church leaders need to be a part of that change. It is a complex issue involving safety, legislation, mental health, poverty, and myriad of other impacts.
Additionally, we all watched with our breath held, the trial of former police officer Derek Chauvin. This trial focused on the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis on May 25, 2020 after Chauvin knelt on his neck for more than 9 minutes. As you know, the verdict was guilty on all counts. It feels like the beginning of MLK’s prediction, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.”
On Tuesday, I read a Facebook post from former President Obama:
“Today, a jury in Minneapolis did the right thing. For almost a year, George Floyd’s death under the knee of a police officer has reverberated around the world — inspiring murals and marches, sparking conversations in living rooms and new legislation. But a more basic question has always remained: would justice be done?
In this case, at least, we have our answer. But if we’re being honest with ourselves, we know that true justice is about much more than a single verdict in a single trial.
True justice requires that we come to terms with the fact that Black Americans are treated differently, every day. It requires us to recognize that millions of our friends, family, and fellow citizens live in fear that their next encounter with law enforcement could be their last. And it requires us to do the sometimes thankless, often difficult, but always necessary work of making the America we know more like the America we believe in.”[1]
As our national leadership wrote, “We remember George Floyd is dead and his family still grieves him. May it be the case that his life is now remembered as a turning, the re-birthing of a movement for justice. May he be remembered as one whose death caused White Americans to turn their faces towards the pain and suffering of Black communities that have been the object of white derision and scorn, a pain and suffering from which whites have too often and too easily hid their faces.”[2]
The Gospel imperative is not to simply love God and the people who look like us. The Gospel imperative is to love our neighbors, all our neighbors. We are called in this love to seek justice for all our neighbors. To preach the Gospel is to adhere to this commandment and the call of the Gospel to care for the least among us - to reach out to the hungry, the thirsty, the lost, the lonely. We are called to help transform the world through the sharing of the Good News that we are a family formed in God’s image, loved by God, redeemed by God. May it be so as we work toward the beloved community God envisioned. Blessings, Bonnie
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ASKING FOR PRAYERS
Today I received this email asking for prayers for India from one of our Ecumenical Relations Mission Team members. As you will recall, we have strong bonds and partnerships with the Church of South India. Please hold our neighbors in your prayers. Blessings, Bonnie
Dear Friends.
Greetings to you all in the matchless name of our risen Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
I hope all are doing well and safe in these uncertain times. India has seen a surge of coronavirus cases and daily number is surpassing 270,000.The surge in Maharashtra, Mumbai
but cases are arising across India. Some of the cities are locked down and workers are sent back to their hometowns. It's really hard to see people are losing their dear ones and they are in a helpless situation even to do final rights.(funeral). I request leadership to pray for India and include it in your intercessory prayers.
Shalom, Sukumar (Charles Kuthuru)
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National, Multiracial, and Interfaith Vigil - Tonight - Thursday, April 22 at 8PM EST
A national, multiracial, and interfaith online vigil is being hosted by Revolutionary Love, in partnership with the Sikh Coalition and other organizations, on Thursday, April 22, at 8 PM EST / 5 PM PST. The vigil is intended to allow all to grieve and stand in solidarity with the Sikh community one week after the mass shooting. https://www.solidarityvigil.com/
DESCRIPTION OF THE WEBINAR SOLIDARITY VIGIL
"Join us for a multiracial interfaith vigil to grieve and stand in solidarity with the Sikh community one week after the mass shooting in Indianapolis. The massacre is touching the open wound of decades-long racial trauma."
In the wake of the verdict over George Floyd’s murder, we will gather to recommit to ending anti-Black racism and racial violence in all forms. We will be joined by faith leaders, artists, activists, and Sikh community members. This online event will be a night of testimony, music, prayer, and song. We will gather in grief, rage, and love — and the Sikh spirit of Chardi Kala, ever-rising spirits even in darkness.
#StopAsianHate #StandWithSikhs #EndRacialViolence"
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Adult Mental Health First Aid Course
May 8 and 15, 2021
9AM to Noon - via Zoom
Led by: Rev. Dr. Emily B. Hall, D. Min, BCCi
Registration Required
Click Here for detailed flyer and registration information.
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Earth Day 2021: Healing the Earth
with Local and Global Initiatives
(From Lehigh Conf. of Churches)
How can we heal the earth in the simple everyday decisions we make about growing, eating and disposing of our food? How can we heal the earth through sustainability projects and interfaith, local, and international advocacy efforts?
Join us as we explore these questions in this Earth Day series taking place in April and May on Zoom.
to register for any or all of the four Sunday sessions on Zoom which will take place at 12:00 p.m. Register no later than the Friday before each presentation. Questions? Call 610-866-5661
This program has been planned by members of the Central Moravian Church, The Cathedral Church of the Nativity, and the Universal Unitarian Church of Bethlehem and funded by the Elizabeth Johnston Prime Fund of the Central Moravian Church.
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PA Council of Churches
April Events --Solitary, Intersectonality, Earth Day, the Black Church,
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April Worship Service
Here is the link for the April worship service prepared by the national setting. The worship should be completed soon but this be the link, so please share it in This Week. When the service is done, you'll be able to find it on our Tri-Conference Vimeo channel: https://vimeo.com/showcase/8312392
Blessings, Bonnie
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Last Chance to Register...
YOU ARE INVITED TO A PNEC EVENT!
CVT CONVERSATIONS
(CVT = Congregational Vitality Committee)
Sunday, May 2nd
2:00 PM-3:30PM on Zoom.
It’s been a challenging year. Let’s talk.
Join the group wishing to move forward and learn by looking back:
Questions we would like to ask and answer:
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What have we lost over the past year that we must take the time to grieve?
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What have we had to let go of that is better off gone?
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What new things have we tried, learned, found helpful?
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What have we gained that is worth keeping as we move into a new “normal”?
Every voice is a heard voice at this event! Come for inquisitive inquiry and/or to share your experiences.
We want to listen. Clergy and Laity welcome. See you there!
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Building Peace with the Earth
A presentation and discussion with Amariee Collins, who has worked with Texas Impact and her congregation, St. Peter's UCC in Houston Texas, on issues of environmental justice and disaster recovery. Houston has some of highest levels of toxic air in the country and is home to 10 of the "Toxic 100". St. Peter's has also begun to explore what a Just Peace declaration might mean for its ministry in the community. Join us for a short presentation on environmental justice and Just Peace followed by time in small groups to network and share with one another resources and upcoming events related to our common work.
April 27, 2021 from 4-5 PM (PDT)/5-6 PM (MDT)/6-7 PM (CDT)/ 7-8 PM (EDT)
Passcode: 211499
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Our condolences... to Linda Lenhart and family on the death of Keith, who died on April 18. Over the years, Linda and Keith have been involved in many Conference activities and mission trips. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to Linda at 5747 Whitemarsh Drive, Macungie, PA 18062. The complete obituary for Keith is in The Morning Call.
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May 13 Webinar - "Systemic Racism: Disasters Expose It - How Do We Address It?"
The Center for Disaster Philanthropy is hosting a webinar titled “ Systemic Racism: Disasters Expose It – How Do We Address It?” on Thursday, May 13 at 2 pm ET to look at how COVID-19 and other disasters make the presence of systemic racism more obvious. Speakers will share practical tips to increase funding for equity and anti-racism work, as well as supporting BIPOC organizations responding to crises in their communities. This webinar is part of Equity in Disasters , a series of blog posts, webinars and other resources highlighting systemic racial and intersectional equity issues linked with communities’ abilities to recover from and withstand future disasters. Please register . |
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Sharing of "Fukushima: Living in the Shadow of the Nuclear Disaster"
Rev. Jeff Mensendiek
The webinar recording "Fukushima: Living in the Shadow of the Nuclear Disaster" can now be accessed on youtube. It is about an hour long. It is an interview with Terumi Kataoka with Jeff Mensendiek translating. The content is quite good and down to earth. Click Here to watch.
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Trouble the Water
Racial Justice & Reconciliation
May 22 from 9-3 on Zoom
an event through NEPA Synod ELCA that will be about racial justice and reconciliation. It will be a day of worship and workshops helping congregation leaders and members better understand the effects of racism within our churches and how we can help in the reconciliation process.
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Nollau Leadership Institute is Open for the 2021-22 Class
Nollau 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. Click Here to read more...
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Table of Contents
- Wonderful Response to our Winter Storm Appeal
- Local church extends generosity to their community
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Special Edition General Synod
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Mobile Vaccine Clinic for Homebound Persons - Lehigh County
Lehigh County Aging and Adult Services had been working with Lehigh Valley Health Network to set up mobile vaccine clinics to help adults receive the COVID-19 vaccine. The next date will be Tuesday, May 11, 2021. LVHN is will be providing the Moderna vaccine. If you know of folks having a difficult time scheduling a vaccine and would like to be put on the list for this next clinic, please email the following information to Susan Whittaker at susanwhittaker@lehighcounty.org. You may also call the main number at 610-782-3034.
Please include:
· First Name, Last Name, Gender, Ethnicity, Race, Date of Birth, Last 4 Digits of SS#, Phone #, Emai
Pennsylvania Link to Aging and Disability Resources
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DHS Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships
Keep Children and Teens Safe with Project iGuardian
Project iGuardian aims to counter a disturbing fact: many online child predators can find victims online because children are not always aware of how dangerous online environments can be. Read More...
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Human Trafficking Resource for Youth Caregivers and Individuals Working with Youth
The guide includes information about:
- How traffickers operate and reach potential victims
- Myths and realities of human trafficking
- Youth vulnerabilities
- Indicators of human trafficking specific to youth
- Dos and don’ts of talking to youth about human trafficking
- Lifestyle factors that may help prevent exploitation
- Reporting options
Learn more about the DHS Blue Campaign here!
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Cultivating Generous Congregations Seminar
The Cultivating Generous Congregations Seminar for pastors and lay leaders offers an opportunity to explore faithful, practical, and tested ways to promoting generosity in our congregations. The seminar draws on current research, seeks guidance from the wisdom of scripture, and discusses the best practices in church-based fundraising. Class sessions held May 19, May 26, June 2, June 9, June 16, and June 23, 2021 from 6:30 – 8:00pm EST. Between class sessions, the instructors provide materials to help you analyze the culture of your own congregation and learn how to create change. Register today: The CGC Seminar is $150 per participant. Register here by April 30, 2021: cvent.me/7yV37Q.
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Veterans' Moral Injury and Suicide Prevention
Lebanon VAMC Clergy Virtual Training Event
May 11, 2021 from 9AM to 11:30AM
Veterans are at higher risk for suicide than the average population. Moral Injuries can have an underlying effect upon the Veteran, as the Veteran feels overwhelmed with shame and guilt. Faith community leaders are encouraged to join us for this virtual training event to learn more about how to help Veterans who may be contemplating Suicide and/or suffering from moral injury.
Guest Speakers include: Chief of Chaplains, Dean Luther; Suicide Prevention Coordinator, John Lucas
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Age of Conspiracies & Disinformation
(from Rev. Teresa Martin, Coopersburg)
For those who may have joined the recent continuing ed on "The Age of Conspiracies and Disinformation" this is an additional list of resources on these issues. The taped zoom discussion was offered by the Wisconsin Council of Churches and once again featured Reverend Heather Hunnicutt.
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Advanced Boundary Training
(Basic boundary training must be completed first. If you have already taken a basic boundary training, this advanced training will cover your Boundary Training requirement and a certificate will be provided.)
Social Media & Boundaries for Ministry
Friday, May 14 & Friday, May 21, 2021
(series of 2 sessions)
Zoom training from 1 to 2 PM
Cost: $25
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Good Leave-Taking Boundaries
May 22
(from Pennsylvania Southeast Conference)
A 3-hour advanced boundary training regarding Good Leave-taking!
About this Event
Facilitator: Rev. Dr. Susan Minasian
Accepting another call can be exciting…until the reality about departing your current ministry sets in (a fear that sometimes keeps us from leaving when we should). Before saying hello to one congregation, there must be a time of saying goodbye to the other. Leaving well is so very important for the spiritual wellbeing of the clergy person and the congregation. There are spiritual practices, rituals of closure, and a series of goodbyes along the way. How to leave with grace and in a healthy way is not always easy but is a part of our covenantal responsibility.
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Hybrid Ministry in a Post Pandemic Church
May 27, June 3 & 10, 2021
9AM - 11AM (Central Time) - LIVE ONLINE
Churches need the capacity and will to engage with a changing culture. Join Ryan Panzer, the author of Grace and Gigabytes: Being Church in a Tech-Shaped Culture—and find out what you can do.
You'll learn:
- An understanding of hybrid ministry in a variety of contexts
- Coaching and change management techniques
- An ability to envision and create hybrid ministries within your faith community
- ... and much more
Digital technology is shaping our values. Learn how your church can adapt and thrive. Sign up today!
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Pastor's Conversations
Bonnie Bates is inviting you to a scheduled semi-monthly Pastors’ Conversations Zoom mtg, held on 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at 2 pm. Join Zoom Meeting:
Meeting ID: 829 4709 0481
Password: 235909
One tap mobile
+16468769923,,82947090481#,,,,0#,,235909# US (New York)
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MORE CONFLICT TRAINING DATES ANNOUNCED
This training is particularly effective for leadership councils, Sessions, Vestries and curated congregational groups. This 1.5 day online workshop will walk your group through how to become skilled in conflict transformation. You will learn skills that will reshape your interactions with present and future congregational conflict and equip you for managing conflict in your work and personal life. There will also be opportunities for sharing our personal experiences with conflict and working on leading through difficult conflict using case studies and role playing.
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Mediation Skills Training Institute for Church Leaders (2021)
May 3-7, June 21-25, August 2-6, October 11-15, or November 15-19
Does your congregation experience conflict? Does it harm your Christian fellowship and distract from your church’s mission? Learn to transform conflict from a negative force into an opportunity for reconciliation and growth. Contact the Lombard Mennonite Peace Center at 630-627-0507 or Admin@LMPeaceCenter.org. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Register now: Penn Central Ministerial Excellence Forum
You are invited to register for a monthly "Ministerial Excellence Forum" hosted by the Penn Central Conference on the third Thursday at one of two time slots: 10:00a-12:00 and 6:00p-8:00p.
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Wisdom Way of Knowing Gatherings
Friday, April 30 - 3:00-5:00pm
Leader: Marcella Kraybill-Greggo, MSW, LSW
Online via Zoom Video Conference
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DISASTER MINISTRIES UCC
The Center for Disaster Philanthropy is hosting a webinar titled “Systemic Racism: Disasters Expose It – How Do We Address It?” on Thursday, May 13 at 2 pm ET to look at how COVID-19 and other disasters make the presence of systemic racism more obvious. Speakers will share practical tips to increase funding for equity and anti-racism work, as well as supporting BIPOC organizations responding to crises in their communities. This webinar is part of Equity in Disasters , a series of blog posts, webinars and other resources highlighting systemic racial and intersectional equity issues linked with communities’ abilities to recover from and withstand future disasters. Please register .
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Disaster Response help needed rebuilding in Philadelphia
Recruiting volunteers to repair and rebuild homes in the Eastwick neighborhood of Philadelphia. On 8.4.2020, during the pandemic, Tropical Storm Isaias dumped 7 inches of rain on parts of eastern PA. Wind damage and tornadoes left hundreds of thousands without power and widespread severe flooding led to injuries as well as one storm-related fatality. We anticipate receiving our first teams in early May, 2021. Along with following strict Covid guidelines on the worksites, the pandemic has also made it impossible for us to offer housing to volunteers. We are encouraging volunteers to commute from a radius of approximately 60 miles or to make their own housing arrangements in the area.
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April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. To commemorate the month, the Department of Homeland Security, Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships and the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Cyber Crimes Center, Child Exploitation Investigation Unit are hosting a webinar to assist faith and community groups and caregivers of youth and teens on how they can help children to be safer online. The webinar will also address support for families when their children have been victimized by online sexual exploitation. The webinar will be held on April 15 at 2-3:30 pm ET. Register here.
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Across the United States, Americans congregate in faith-based venues to worship, learn, play, and bond as a community. CISA is committed to supporting efforts to maintain safe and secure houses of worship and related facilities while sustaining an open and welcoming environment. This resource page is designed to guide houses of worship through building improved security and safety protocols for their specific organization’s congregants and facilities. These tools help houses of worship identify and report suspicious behavior; build positive community relationships; develop partnerships with law enforcement; and implement emergency operations plans and screening procedures while enhancing security awareness. By utilizing these resources, houses of worship can easily develop a continuing security improvement cycle. To learn more visit, Houses of Worship | CISA.
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The application phone number for FEMA COVID funeral assistance is live. Call 844-684-6333 COVID-related funeral expenses must have been incurred after Jan. 20, 2020. This aid is provided to help ease some of the financial stress and burden caused by the pandemic. Visit the FEMA website for more information.
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