Penn Northeast Conference UCC, 431 Delaware Ave., Palmerton, PA 18071
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Letter from Bonnie
1 Corinthians 12:12-31 reads: “For even as the body is one and yet has many members, and all the members of the body, though they are many, are one body, so also is Christ. For by one Spirit, we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one Spirit.”
Dear Friends,
Sunday, we celebrate Pentecost, the birthday of the church, the moment when the Holy Spirit came upon and empowered the disciples of Jesus. This is the occasion of Peter’s first sermon, and the audience hearing the sermon each in their own language. What a curiosity that must have been!
Today we know the church, the Christian church in many divisions, denominations, and theological perspectives. Then, in those early days, if you followed Jesus, you followed the Way, and were members of the one church that followed Jesus Christ, all members of the one body of Christ as Paul wrote in the first letter to the church at Corinth. The Corinthian church was beset with conflicts and divisions and confusions about how to live and worship together. Paul reminds them, and us, that as followers of Jesus we are all part of the one body, blessed by the one Spirit.
As the United Church of Christ was forming from diverse strands of theological belief and denomination, one core scripture was quoted as our scripture – our motivation for unity, John 17:21-22, “As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. The glory that you have given me I have given them, so that they may be one, as we are one.”
That unity gets lost sometimes, in our discussions, in our worship, in our focus on social issues and ills in the world. Yet, it was the prayer of Jesus that we all be one. On this Pentecost Sunday, and throughout the remainder of the year, remember that what we hold in common is much more than what we disagree about. We are called to listen with respect to one another, share opinions, beliefs, and interpretations with one another, AND to remember that we are ONE, all members of the same body, all blessed with the same Spirit, all loved by the same God, and all following the same Jesus. May you feel the Holy Spirit moving you into community with your friends and neighbors, yes, and even with those you might consider an annoyance or an enemy. May we each and all call on the Holy Spirit to strengthen and empower us for the faith journey ahead.
Blessings, Bonnie
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INVITATION TO ORDINATION SERVICE…
Laura Oesterle will be ordained on Sunday, May 23, 2021 at 2PM at New Creation UCC, 3730 Nicholas St., Easton. Laura would like clergy to vest and wear red stoles if they have them! Gathering around 1:45, the service is at 2pm. It will also be live-streamed on New Creation’s Facebook page.
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Pennsylvania Southeast Conference Racial Justice Initiative
We are going to begin a six week book study on “Four Hundred Souls” beginning June 1st (3PM & 7:30PM) and would like to invite the folks of PNEC to join us. Please see the attached advertisement
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Faith 4 Vaccines National Summit
The National Council of Churches has been part of a Jewish, Christian, and Muslim coalition called Faiths4Vaccines for the past several months. Among our goals is helping houses of worship become vaccination sites by connecting them with partners such as local and state health departments and/or pharmacies.
Faiths4Vaccines has held frequent meetings with the White House. All of this has led to our plans for a National Summit next week. We’ve invited President Biden and we expect a number of administration leaders including Dr. Frances Collins of the National Institutes for Health and Dr. Fauci to participate.
Faith leaders and faith-based organizations in attendance will receive training, resources and empowerment to engage their communities to ensure equitable vaccine access, combat hesitancy and potentially use their houses of worship as vaccination sites.
Faith leaders, faith communities, and medical professionals are leading efforts to respond, recover from the unprecedented health crises facing our nation and the world. Now, equipped with a life-saving vaccine, we have the chance to bring this devastating, and all the suffering it has caused, to an end.
Now is the time to partake in open and honest dialogue between faith leaders and county, state and national health officials to identify opportunities for faith-based institutions to further engage and support local communities to increase vaccination rates. Click here to register for the event.
We look forward to welcoming you at the Summit!
Yours in Peace, Jim Winkler,
Faiths4Vaccine Executive Committee:
Rev. Jim Wallis, Founder, Sojourners; Dr. Mohamed Elsanousi, Executive Director, the Network for Religious and Traditional Peacemakers; Jim Winker, President and General Secretary, National Council of Churches; Rabbi David Saperstein, Director-Emeritus, Union for Reform Judaism; Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner, Co-Convener of the National African American Clergy Network; Dr. Uzma Syed Infectious Disease Specialist, Islamic Medical Association of North America
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Vital Conversations
As the light at the end of the COVID tunnel grows brighter, our churches and our people are excited to “get back” to some sense of normal ministry. However, our excitement is not without some apprehension: “How do we regain the momentum that was halted by closures? How do we decide what to restart and what to leave ended? How do we re-ignite the congregation’s passion for worship and service?” These are all revitalization questions, and many of our churches are asking questions like them. And so, the Congregational Vitality Team wants to provide an on-going space for asking and discussing these questions as our churches navigate his exciting season of new beginnings. Every fourth Monday of each month (starting June 28th at 7 PM), we are inviting interested clergy and lay leaders to attend a Zoom conversation where they can talk through situations with other leaders, learn, and brainstorm together.
Meeting ID: 817 9668 4439
Passcode: 292474
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“Can a church require a members to disclose whether the member has been vaccinated?” (Or even, can a church require its members to be vaccinated?)
Here is my response
Heather E. Kimmel, General Counsel, UCC
The answer is yes, a church can require that. A church is a private membership organization and can impose any requirement on its members (within reason). A church is also not subject to HIPAA (except in very specific circumstances such as when it has a parish nurse program or is providing licensed counseling services under the auspices of the church or maybe dealing with medical information of employees—who are not under consideration here).
But just because we can do something under the law doesn’t mean we should do it. Frankly, it’s not the church’s business whether a person decides to get vaccinated or why, and requiring disclosure of that status will create two classes of members who will be treated differently—is that what the church wants to do? If someone says “no,” then what will the church do? Say “why?” That gets into pretty private territory.
I understand some churches want this information so that they can return to in-person worship. That decision may be better made based on the conditions in the community as a whole, including continued compliance with CDC guidelines. That way, the church can say “we are worshiping in person, socially distanced, with precautions in place; attend if you are comfortable,” and not need to concern itself with whether a member has chosen to protect themselves by getting vaccinated.
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Mind, Body, Spirit: Linking Lives for Health & Wholeness
UCC Wellness Ministries Newsletter (May-June, 2021)
In this newsletter you will find information on the following topics: (To Read it All CLICK HERE)
For May:
- Mental Health Month
- Asthma & Allergies Awareness Month
- National High Blood Pressure Education Month
- National Nurses Month
For June:
- National Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection & Prevention Month
- National Safety Month
- Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month
Put This on Your Calendar:
- On-Line Education & Resources
Congratulations to Deborah Ringen, MSN, RN-BC
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Update About the CDC's Latest Guidance on Mask Wearing
Fully vaccinated individuals no longer need to mask and social distance. Wow, just wow. BUT (and this is a big but) before you strip naked (at least your face, that is...) and run through your favor indoor space with reckless abandon, let's break this down a bit.
First, why the change? The bottom line is that more and more research shows us that:
1) The vaccine is pretty darn good at preventing symptomatic COVID infection, especially severe disease, hospitalization, and death.
2) The vaccine is also pretty good at preventing asymptomatic COVID. Translate: It can prevent you from spreading it to others.
So fully vaccinated people are protected from getting infection and giving it to others. Amen! So what does that mean for day-to-day life?
The CDC previously recognized that fully vaccinated people could relax masking and distancing in their private lives; namely, with other vaccinated families and friends and with select unvaccinated individuals. They also said you could nix the masks outside given the low risk for COVID transmission al fresco.
With this update, fully vaccinated individuals can now remove their masks and get a little closer to others in many indoor public places.
So what's the catch? Let's read the fine print...
- Fully vaccinated people must still wear a mask in health care settings, transportation hubs such as airports and stations, and public transportation. That includes planes, buses and trains traveling into, within or outside of the U.S. as part of a federal mask mandate that was extended to Sept. 13.
- Fully vaccinated people must wear a mask or socially distance in places required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance.
- Fully vaccinated people may still need to wear a mask depending on where they live and where they go. Some business owners may follow CDC guidelines, but others may be more reluctant to lift their own rules on masking.
Also attached a helpful graphic provided by the CDC. A key take-away from this chart I would especially like to highlight is the left-sided column - namely the activities that are still high-risk for those that are UNVACCINATED. Hint, hint: why haven't you gotten your jab yet???
This is also a good opportunity for me to remind you all that COIVD is complicated and everyone navigates the ongoing fear and anxiety in different ways. Remember to Be Kind. No mask shaming (either to wear one or take it off)!
Kara Mascitti, MD, MSCE, FACP, FIDSA; Medical Director, Healthcare Epidemiology and Infection Prevention; President, Network Medical Staff; Physician, St. Luke’s Infectious Disease Associates"
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Heritage Sunday
Dear Colleagues, I trust you all are well as we move through the last weeks of the Easter season! I am writing some information that I hope you will integrate into your worship life next month.
If your church has Evangelical Synod and/or German Reformed roots, then I invite you to celebrate June 13th as Heritage Sunday. In June 1934 the Evangelical Synod and the Reformed Church joined to form the Evangelical and Reformed Church. Heritage Sunday is an opportunity to raise awareness of and appreciation for our historical roots and support the Evangelical and Reformed Historical Society (ERHS) at the same time. ERHS is the repository of archival material from our churches, missions, clergy, publications and covenantal partners and has locations at Eden Seminary and Lancaster Theological Seminary.
The link will provide a liturgy that draws on three of the historical worship books for a service that is true to Evangelical and Reformed roots. General Prayers from the E&R Book of Worship are also included. All language has been updated (except for Trinitarian references). Feel free to check it out via the link below. You’ll also find additional resources for your use. Link includes:
· Full liturgy (with scripture lessons, creed and sermon left open)
· A short video by General Minister and President John Dorhauer that can be included in digital services. (available May 15th)
· General Prayers
· Bulletin covers
· Bulletin inserts with information about ERHS
· Hymn Suggestions
· QR codes to include for easy donations
· Links to historical German Reformed, Evangelical Synod, and E&R worship books
I hope you’ll take this opportunity to celebrate our heritage. Other congregations rooted in the Evangelical and Reformed tradition across the denomination will be participating as well. Join in the celebration of our roots!
“O God, giver of all good and fountain of all mercies…all glory, thanks and praise be to you for your unfailing goodness…for your mercies which are new every morning, fresh every moment, and more than we can number.” (E&R Worship Book, 1947)
Peace,
Rev. Carrie Call, PhD, Conference Minister, Penn Central Conference, United Church of Christ
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Association of United Church Educators
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SAVE THE DATE
Congregational Leadership Training
Saturday, September 25
9AM-4PM via Zoom
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Special message from Phoebe board about getting vaccinated
Take a few minutes to view A Special Message from the Phoebe Governing Board. These heartfelt messages from the board volunteers are a testament of their dedication to Phoebe Ministries' partners and residents, and offer encouragement to consider getting vaccinated to protect yourselves and others.
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Changing Hearts & Minds: Interfaith & International Advocacy for the Planet
May 23, 2021 noon to 1PM on Zoom
to register for these 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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Justice Update for the Week of May 17
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Updates from the Evangelical & Reformed Historical Society
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Faith + Lead Lutheran Seminary
Understanding, Exploring & Managing Bias and Burnout
Thursdays, June 3, 10, 17, 24 - 2:15PM Central Time
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Appeal for India
Gifts will help 3 hospitals fight COVID surge in India. Learn How...
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Pastoring Challenging Parishioners:
A Relational & Mental Health Perspective
June 22 OR June 23, 2021
(each workshop has a limit of 20 pastors)
Counts for Advanced Boundary Training
6 to 8:30PM
Cost: $10/person
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Trouble the Water - Racial Justice & Reconciliation
May 22 from 9-3 on Zoom
An event through NEPA Synod ELCA. It will be a day of worship & 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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2021 Walk For Our Grandchildren
The planning group of some 15 people had its weekly meeting yesterday and I can now confirm the basic route. There will doubtless be some variation in it as we walk. A detailed map route is now on our website, bit.ly/walk4ourgrandchildren. The website has the most up to date info. Read More...
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Wednesdays In The Word -- Identity Crisis - I AM
Each Wednesday - (May 19, 2021 – July 7, 2021) - 1:00-1:30; 7:00-7:30 Weekly
On-Line with the Women of Dille Parish, 903 Main St., LeRaysville -- (570) 744-1637
To remind us of what Jesus said about Himself, what prompted it, and how understanding this might be a blessing to us today.
1:00 p.m. audio only -- Phone: 872-240-8956 -- Meeting ID: 816160944#
7 p.m. audio only -- Phone: 872-240-8956 -- Meeting ID: 158043143#
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The Pennsylvania Academy of Ministry at Lancaster Seminary
Is your congregation considering a part-time pastor? Are you considering a career in ministry alongside a secular job? This class is appropriate for lay leaders and clergy alike. We will explore what it means to be bivocational in ministry. We will study the example of Paul as tentmaker and discuss challenges facing the church today. Students taking this class for CEUs will develop a covenant of expectations between congregation and pastor for successful ministry in a changing world.
Also upcoming:
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Now Accepting Applications for the 2022 Adese Fellowship
The Adese Fellowship: A catalytic experience for emerging entrepreneurs who renew the Church's mission to create a just world for all.
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UCC Digital Programming
Tuesdays for Nurture - 3:30 to 4:30 (Eastern); Thursdays for the Soul - 3:30 to 4:30 (Eastern)
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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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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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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. Digital technology is shaping our values. Learn how your church can adapt and thrive. Sign up today!
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Mediation Skills Training Institute for Church Leaders (2021)
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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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 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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DISASTER MINISTRIES UCC
May 2021 - Disaster Ministries E-News
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Helping Your Loved One Who Is Suicidal: A Guide for Family and Friends
SAMHSA has published a new guide that will help churches and families who have a loved one who is suicidal or has made a suicide attempt. It provides information on understanding suicide, warning signs and action steps to take, and ways to prevent future attempts and keep your loved one safe. Learn more at
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For your awareness- COVID response in India:
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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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