United Church of the Valley
A Partnership Church
United Church of Christ/Disciples of Christ
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A Progressive Christian Community
A Just Peace Congregation
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Just in case you weren’t aware, the beautiful tapestry that hangs behind our Communion Table was titled by Anne DiPardo, the creator, “This Little Light”. |
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For many of us at UCV, we have always considered ourselves a bright little light here in the Murrieta/Temecula Valley. I don’t know about you, but I’ve always wondered how can we get that light to shine a little brighter and just maybe more folks would be drawn to our light.
Well, this past week it was very enthusiastically noticed and it’s a story worth sharing with all of you. As you might or might not be aware of, we have had to have some water damage repaired this week. I was over checking on one of the fellas working on the Sanctuary side…and out of the clear blue he comments in a very excited voice…”You have a Gay Pride Flag hanging in your window…Oh, you have a Black Lives Matter Flag and a Coexist Flag too!!!” He’s pleasantly shocked and in a real excited voice asks…”What kind of a church are you? How long have you been here?” I just chuckled and I replied that we were a small progressive church that has been here in the valley for over 25 years. He just walked around and shook his head… He proceeded to tell me how excited his wife would be knowing that we even exist. He explained how she is Hispanic and born & raised Catholic and he was raised in a strict Lutheran church and how amazed he was that we didn’t have an ‘altar’. He was so excited to hear about our Open & Affirming Covenant and about us becoming a Peace Church. We talked about the size of our congregation and that although we could be considered ‘small’ we are like family. We talked about a few of the different vigils that we’ve participated in at the Duck Pond and other places, our participation in the different Gay Pride Parades, etc. He just kept shaking his head and smiling. When he left that afternoon, he made a special effort to say Thank You for telling him more about UCV and that he wished us well.
There’s a part of me that is kicking myself for not actually inviting him & his wife to a Sunday service…but I’m hoping that I will see him again before the work is completed. It was just an encounter that makes me smile each time that I remember the conversation. This man’s excitement that started with the noticing of our different flags (BTW a big shoutout to Ruth and Sherian for all of them) will be with me for a very long time.
It’s just a very real reminder that UCV is truly a Little Light in this valley and it is up to us to help that light shine a little brighter every day!!!
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Becoming a Just Peace Congregation |
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Along with our study of St. Francis’ prayer, we will be exploring the possibility of becoming designated as a Just Peace congregation. UCV has a long history of participating in ecumenical efforts to promote peace. In the early 2000’s, individuals from UCV and UU faithfully met at the Community House every Friday afternoon to silently protest the war. Frequently a group of counter-protesters met across the street by the post office. Many of us joined with others from Interfaith to stand with the Muslims when demonstrations against the proposed construction of a new mosque were expected. Thus, it seems appropriate that UCV explore becoming a “Just Hope” congregation. This designation, similar to that of “Open and Affirming”, is achieved after a congregation has participated in a study program and then voted to affirm their intention of becoming a Just Peace church. Lee Eddy has agreed to guide us through this process. Watch for further information as we determine our specific plan. |
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The Month of October
Mind, Spirit, Body 30-Day Challenge. Scroll down a bit to see details.
The Month of December
December Holiday Bizarre - More details to follow. Contact person Ann and Kerry
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Charter member, Anne Crutchfield, passed away at the age of 90 on July 16, 2021. Anne lived in Anza and would make the 60-mile round trip to church on Sundays, and it was always such a wonderful time when she arrived. She would definitely win the award for the most miles traveled to church of anyone in the congregation. She would regularly receive a round of applause when she entered the sanctuary if she had not been in attendance for a length of time, usually due to health complications. Her simple presence was evidence of commitment, dedication, and a sense of family. Ahead of her time, Anne met her husband when they were both computer programmers for NASA.
Anne was kind, sharp as a tack, and loved by everyone who met her. She participated in Bible Studies, was on the Church Council 3 times as clerk and treasurer and started the “Lunch Bunch” in 1998 for anyone wanting to join in after service. Not one to be left out of a party, she even bought an RV in 1999 to accompany the cyclists in the Bike America fundraiser. Anne attended Apple Pie Day at Pilgrim Pines as often as possible and participated in car rallies and progressive dinners. She introduced her granddaughter, Kelly, to UCV who was part of Lynne Bradley’s music program for many years.
Anne had been homebound for the last few years, especially due to Covid. She will be very missed by anyone who had the immense privilege of knowing her. Cards can be sent to Kelly Crutchfield at 415 Palm Dr. #2, Vista, CA 92084
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Friends Worshipping
Together
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Kid’s Church is Back Every
Sunday During the Service
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August services will be live and on Zoom beginning at 10am every Sunday. The live service will be recorded and available on the UCV website, Facebook and YouTube later in the day. |
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Join Us in October for the
UCV Mind, Body, Spirit 30-Day Challenge
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So this is how it works...you can click on the link below which will take you to our landing page where you can register for the challenge. The ways in which you can challenge yourself are endless, there will be a 5K, 10K, and marathon and you will choose whether to run, walk, roll, bike or swim and you have 30 days to go the distance. There is a fitness challenge, and again you will design your fitness challenge (yoga, mediation, a physical activity). Maybe you want to read your way through the challenge, how many books can you read in 30 days or how many hours can you volunteer during the month. Last but certainly not least, the most awesome Custom Challenge....you determine what that is. No one will be looking over your shoulder to see if you are working your challenge, we all self-monitor.
Beginning August 15th registration will open, click on the link below or we can direct you from our website, register for yourself or you can also put a team together and challenge each other. This is a fundraiser so there will be a fee ($38), you will receive a t-shirt design specifically for this event.
If you aren't interested in participating but would like to support what we do as a congregation, you can click on the link and hit the donate button.
We have all been through the ringer these last 18+ months and we deserve to have some fun...so let's make it happen.
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"The Difficult Questions" |
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Hello, my name is Nerni Miller. I have attended UCV a few times over the past few years and more recently Dawn Rae Smith invited me to the group Difficult Questions which meets on Tuesday nights at 7:00 PM via Zoom (for now). Deb Hudson asked me to share my experiences with the Difficult Questions group through the lens of someone not a part of the UCV community. For the time being, I am church-less. In a way…..
The women (so far, men are certainly invited) that meet every week have become church for me in ways that I never would have expected. Part of the reason I was drawn to Difficult Questions is because my faith is largely driven by questions now. I have lots of questions and I believe Jesus welcomes and honors them. I believe He wants us to grapple with the gray.
I come from a tradition that has a very structured hierarchy and clearly defined liturgy and theology. It is a beautiful tradition with a history and richness that I find nowhere else. I never thought I would EVER be seeking faith filled community elsewhere. Even with all of the rich beauty and a book full of answers, I still have many questions. Catholic theologians, saints and teachers have driven much of what Christianity believes and embraces. Communities of all Christian traditions often rely on the complex and long history of the Church. Both contemporary and historical influences resonate with those seeking Truth. But for me, in practice, in the pews, I have found my questions and challenges met with indifference at best and with unexpected hostility at worst, which has only worsened as our nation has become even more polarized.
The women at Difficult Questions not only welcome my inquiry, they embrace me as a person. There is no expectation that I will be anything but who I am- a bit of a book nerd, a passionate teacher with rambling responses that eventually get to the point and a love for Jesus that mandates that I choose love first, and always. The gentle and relaxed nature of our conversation lends itself well to both, I don’t know, will you help me find out? AND, Of this I am certain, well ….maybe? The women in this group generate a light that can only come from a community committed to one another’s wellness and worth. There is such a wide range of age, experiences, traditions and perspective that our nights are never formulaic and I always leave challenged AND encouraged. Come join us!
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It is with great joy that we can let you know that the vast majority of our Partner Groups have returned to meet inside at UCV. Our AA groups, Al Anon Group, Riverside Trans Support Group, and Citizen’s Climate Lobby have either returned already or will be returning in May. Each group came back with the understanding that should the Covid-19 restrictions come back that we would once again have to shut down. Each group has been terrific in adhering to our guidelines of maximum people, mask requirements and physical distancing requirements. Some are actually doing ‘hybrid’ meetings using Zoom to include those who are not yet comfortable with meeting inside. Each group has been so gracious with their donations to UCV and their praise with the way we continued to maintain our commitment to them and opening up as soon as we could. There are a few groups that have not returned which has opened up some time for the possibility of a new group or two. If anyone would like some information as to time availability please feel free to email Deb Hudson at admin@ucvchurch.org.
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Back in Illinois where I come from, August is still a time for vacations since school usually doesn’t begin again until after Labor Day. It never really made sense to me that in CA we went back to school in the height of the hottest season—but what do I know?
But here we are at the beginning of another school year…in August! I had so0 hoped that we could also be announcing the return to choir and bell rehearsals and perhaps even some kids’ music but, obviously covid has different plans. Know that as sure as it is safe, hopefully we will all be eager to make a joyful noise together, as well as have the congregation join together in song. Singing together is such a spiritual and unifying experience and I know we’ve all missed that a lot. However, the bad news, for the moment at least, is that the virus is again moving us in the wrong direction. Our southern and central UCC conferences are planning another webinar on Aug. 10 to update us regarding safe church guidelines so stay tuned. Meanwhile the council is closely monitoring the situation. If it’s one thing we’ve learned during this pandemic, it is to change on a dime. So, always read the weekly new blasts from UCV for the latest info. In the meantime, we will continue masking and sanitizing and be even more diligent about social distancing in the sanctuary. If you are not feeling well or want another layer of safety, we are so glad that we have zoom available so that all can participate in worship.
July was a month of travel for many in our congregation (I’m envious!!). So, we’re really grateful to all who stepped up to help with all the Sunday jobs—set up, lay leader, greeter, treats, and, last but definitely not least, tech. A special shout out goes to Lukas Eddy who has done a great job learning to run our now more sophisticated (and thus, more complicated) system! A few of you have volunteered to be trained to be put in the rotation—or serve as backup. Hopefully we’ll be able to announce some tech training sessions soon. For the other jobs, all you have to do is sign up on the clip board as you enter.
Our worship team has taken a vacation this month as well, but we’ll be meeting soon to plan ahead to the fall. If you’ve got any ideas for us to consider, please let me know. It’s frustrating to know how to plan in this time of pandemic uncertainty. Maybe we should schedule a covid exorcism!
As I mentioned in Moderator Monday earlier this month, Rev. Jen and I attended at least parts of this year’s virtual UCC General Synod. This is a national biannual gathering which was held virtually this year. I concentrated on attending several helpful workshops, some, three worship experiences and two outstanding keynote speakers. When I listened to Valarie Kuar’s Ted talk as a “teaser” to her speech at Synod, I immediately felt I needed to understand more about her work with a non-profit called “Revolutionary Love”. I ordered her book, “See No Stranger” which I strongly recommend. Kaur, who is Sikh, was in college when 9/11 happened. Within a month, an acquaintance became the first Sikh to by murdered in our country as hate against Muslims began to grow (Sikhs aren’t Muslims but their tradition of wearing turbans made them visible targets) and Kaur began a mission of civil rights work, leading to the creation of Revolutionary Love.
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T'ai Chi with Paul Dallas |
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The Prayers and Squares ministry will be taking a short break, we will let you know when this wonderful group is back and sharing their gift. |
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Bringing our tithes and offerings to God is an important spiritual practice that cultivates gratitude and generosity. While we cannot physically pass the offering plate, we can continue to bring our gifts to God through online or mail-in donations. |
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To send a check, please use:
United Church of the Valley
41685 Date Street Suite 100
Murrieta, CA 92562
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Or donate online:
(3.5% fee)
Venmo: @ucvchurch (free)
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UCV Birthday Bank
August Birthdays
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The Birthday Bank has been a tradition at the United Church of the Valley for many a year. When your birthday comes around you get to put $1 for every year into the birthday bank (the $1 per year is only a suggestion). Of course we would love to celebrate with you during our social after the Sunday Service, we'll even provide the cake. Is your name on this list?
August Birthdays
- Michael Turner - 3rd
- Irene Martinez - 7th
- Steven MacLean - 17th
- Beth Elwood - 19th
- Darcie Dunlop - 29th
August Anniversaries
- Michael and Sherry Turner - 2nd (35 years)
- Jeff and Nita MacLean - 22nd (34 years)
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Please email any joys & concerns you would like read aloud to Sandy Selby at moderator@ucvchurch.org. You can also send confidential prayer requests. Just indicate as such and let Sandy know if you want it shared with any of the other spiritual counselors.
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Behind the Pulpit in August |
During the month of August our Sunday service will be live on our Zoom channel. The recording of the service will be available online later that day on Facebook, YouTube and on our Website.
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August 1st - Sandy Selby
August 8th - Jamie Barnett
August 15th - Rev. Stephanie Toon
August 22nd - Darcie Dunlop
August 29th - Rev. Jennifer Zechlin
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You can find our Sermons, past and present, on our YouTube channel (click the video) as well as our website (click the button). |
Amidst the dual problems of covid and political uncertainty (“elections” will be held in November but all of the possible opponents to the current president have been conveniently put in prison), there is some good news to report. Even though we weren’t there to build it, our donations along with those from our friends, made it possible for one more plastic house in Chacraseca to “bite the dirt”. And, to keep alive—at least in part—the tradition of blessing the house, we were able to do the blessing in church on July 4. We then sent the video along with an electronic version of the actual blessing to Julio, Just Hope’s head translator. Julio had the blessing framed and then presented it to the grateful family. The video of the presentation and the family’s response was then sent back to us to show in worship later in the month—one time when technology helped bring us together. |
- Sandy Selby is home and will be back in church on August 1st.
- Irene and Rosio and family are back from Florida.
- Donna Richards is home from the hospital and getting better each day.
UCC News
General Synod 2021 was virtual this year and held in July. This event takes place every 4 years.
DOC News
The DOC will host their Regional Gathering for the Pacific Regio on Oct 15-16 with online and in person experiences. Theme is "Siguiendo el Camino (continuing on the Way"). Dates for schedule, location, and registration and event detail will be announced later in the summer.
It sure is good to be in our church facility with our friends. Please continue to send cards to our homebound members.
- Archie Aitchison--40024 Harveston Dr. Temecula CA 92591
- Sue Berry --24077 Garfton Ave. Murrieta, CA 92562
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Pilgrim Pines had a virtual camp during the early part of July. Then there were 2 family camps for 2 different weekends at the camp. All were successful. Unfortunately, Donna was sick and Xsalai and Bella were stuck in Texas and were unable to participate at camp. Donna is hoping to do camp in a box with the girls sometime in August. Donna will do a camp children's time on Aug 1st. Phoebe attended camp at Forest Falls as part of the staff for 3 weeks this summer.
Pilgrim Pines has a Bingo fundraiser for the campership fund on July 31st over Zoom. Next event at Pilgrim Pines will be Apple Pie Day on Oct. 9th. This is our largest fund raiser for the campership fund. This fund helps send people to camp that might not otherwise be able to go to camp. It is also a family camp weekend. Reservations are required. See Donna if you would like to attend for the day or the weekend. Pilgrim Pines camp is located above Beaumont in Oak Glen. Donna will be raffling of the camp tee shirt quilt, or you can buy one outright. Proceeds go to the campership fund. There will be other items in the raffle. Other donations are always welcomed to help support the camp. Cabins can be rented for a short vacation retreat.
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Services will be live and on Zoom at 10am on Sundays. The live service will be recorded and available on the UCV website, Facebook and YouTube later in the day. |
Even fellowship can be online, thanks to the innovative minds at Zoom! Join us for Sunday Service live and on zoom beginning at 10am. UCV has its own Zoom meeting room at https://zoom.us/j/9516981520
You can join from your Zoom app using meeting number 9516981520
Or you can join by phone:
One tap mobile
+16699006833,9516981520# US (San Jose)
or dial
+1-669-900-6833
and then enter
9516981520#
You can start your own online fellowship, too! Just email Sandy Selby at moderator@ucvchurch.org to get on the meeting schedule.
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Sunday Service - Live and on Zoom, 10AM
Monthly Game Night -SUSPENDED until further notice. Every 3rd Saturday of the month from 6:30 - 8:30 at The Community House
Monthly Potluck - SUSPENDED until further notice
Book Club - SUSPENDED further notice. We are meeting online every Sunday at 9am Zoom Meeting Room
AA Meeting - Monday - Friday 7am
Voices of the Valley Youth Choir - SUSPENDED until further notice
UCV Council Meeting - 1st Monday of the month 6pm Zoom Meeting Room
AA Meeting - Every Monday 7pm
Women's Al-Anon Meeting - Every Wednesday 5:30pm
Men's AA Meeting - Every Wednesday 7pm
TVP Board Meeting - Currently on Zoom
AA Big Book Study - Every Friday 7pm
AA Step Meeting - Every Saturday 8am
Trans Family Support - 1st Saturday of the month 4pm
Citizens Climate Lobby Meeting - 2nd Saturday of the month 9:30am
C.O.D.A.Meeting - Every Sunday 5:30pm (Currently still on Zoom)
AA Meeting - Every Sunday 7:30pm at The Community House
The Community House is located at
41685 Date Street, Murrieta 92562
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United Church of the Valley is a Partnership Church
United Church of Christ/Disciples of Christ
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951-698-1520 admin@ucvchurch.org
www.ucvchurch.org
41685 Date St. Murrieta
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