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| MCC Around The Fellowship Newsletter June 2008 |  |  |  |
| Monday, 23 June 2008 02:00 | |||
| The MCC newsletter reporting from congregations all over the world... In this Special Reports & Resources Issue:
But first, a couple of Notes!Here are a couple of timely notes about MCC's "Around The Fellowship" newsletter... First... Have you ever felt as though life was so busy and hectic that you found it helpful to slow down, refocus, and reflect? That's a helpful way to think of June's two issues of MCC's "Around the Fellowship" newsletter! MCC congregations have accomplished amazing work and ministry in the first six months of 2008. So during June, we're slowing down a bit to "catch-up" on news and events that didn't make it into earlier editions of ATF, but that are well worth noting and celebrating! Second... Here's something for you to think about while you're refocusing and reflecting. We're looking for a new name for MCC's "Around The Fellowship" newsletter -- and we invite you to send us your ideas. We're looking for a newsletter name that communicates energy and vitality. That looks to the future. That reflects MCC's international ministry, the breadth of MCC's unique calling in our world, and our commitment to diversity. So... If you have an idea you think would be the perfect name for MCC's newsletter, send your submission to Judy Dale, ATF editor, at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Send as many names as you wish! If your submission is selected, we'll include your name and your local church when the announcement is made in September. Spotlight on Local MCC Churches and LeadersTo celebrate Australia Day weekend, MCC Sydney spent time learning more about the spirituality and culture of their indigenous brothers and sisters. Karen Brown presented a special Aboriginal dreamtime story. Yee Haw! Rodney Shaw competed in the Palm Springs Rodeo 2008. He is the first visually-impaired cowhand to compete in a California rodeo. His events were calf roping on foot and goat dressing. He even won a buckle! Speakers for this year's the Transgender Sermon Series at MCC San Jose (California) were Rev. Vicky Kolakowski, Rev. Sky Anderson, Rev. Elijah Nealy, deputy director of the LGBT Center in New York City, and Rabbinic Intern Reuben Zellman of congregation Shahar Zahav. Justin Ryan has released his newest CD Revive Us Again: Timeless Hymns, Treasured Friends. He sings the old favorites with other recording artists, including Porter Wagoner, Lynn Anderson, Marsha Stevens-Pino, Kenny Bishop, Allison Durham Speer, the Southern Gospel Trio, HisSong, Angie Primm, and several others. He debuted the album at MCC Louisville (Kentucky), and is available for concerts and services in local MCCs. For more information or to order your copy, go to www.JustinRyanOnline.com. We're family! Divas with chainsaws from MCC of the Living Spring (Eureka Springs, Arkansas) and Spirit of Christ MCC (Joplin, Missouri) arrived at MCC United (Tulsa, Oklahoma) ready to work! They helped clear damage from a bad ice storm and enjoyed a wonderful lunch provided by the local congregation. A scholarship honoring Rev. Elder Dr. Charlie Arehart has been established at Iliff School of Theology to benefit MCC seminary students. Grammy and Dove Award winner Cynthia Clawson appeared in concert at Resurrection MCC (Houston, Texas). Linda Price of New Spirit MCC (Cincinnati, Ohio) was on the TV game show The Price Is Right. She successfully completed "The Golf Game," winning a new car! Joshua Love, MCC's program specialist for HIV/AIDS and drug literacy, co-hosted the Sex Smarts radio show with Dr. Matt Brown of the University of Colorado. He discussed MCC's global programs on KVCU, which serves Denver and Boulder, Colorado. The 16th annual MCC service at International Mr. Leather took place on May 25 at Hyatt Regency in Chicago, Illinois. Jakob Hero preached and the choir from MCC Illiana (Lake Station, Indiana) sang. Rev. Randall Besta was the guest preacher recently at Church of Our Savior MCC (Boynton Beach, Florida). Rev. Elder Nancy Wilson has been named to the Board for Florida's Fairness for All Families campaign. Other Board members include Julian Bond (NAACP Chairman), Janet Reno (former US Attorney General), Congressperson Debbie Schultz, and Bentley Lipscomb (former AARP President and Department of Elder Affairs Secretary). Rev. Dr. Robin Miller, a hospital chaplain in Denver, recently returned home as the guest preacher for Pikes Peak MCC (Colorado Springs, Colorado). Jay Bakker, son of Jim and the late Tammy Faye Bakker, was the guest preacher at MCC Austin (Texas). He pastors Revolution, a church for those who experience rejection by traditional approaches to Christianity. He was joined by participants in the Soulforce American Family Outing, who were later commissioned at MCC Austin. The life and ministry of Rev. Elder Troy Perry was featured on Mix Brazil. http://mixbrasil.uol.com.br/mp/upload/noticia/3_52_65745.shtml MCC San Antonio Board member Marsha Warren, who is also MCC Treasurer and Board of Administration member, is the newly elected Treasurer of the Board of Directors of Equality Texas and the Equality Texas Foundation, the leading LGBT rights organization in Texas. Dawnetta Miller of MCC of Greater Dallas is the new Vice-Chair of Equality Texas. MCC of the Palm Beaches (West Palm Beach, Florida) launched their new multi-media and sound system. They raised $15,000 (USD) for the equipment at a Chocolate Extravaganza. Jason & deMarco have relocated to Houston, Texas, where they have offices and their recording studio. They are also serving as the youth leaders and singing at the Unity church there and touring only two weekends each month. Anne Barr, who started the Decatur Women's Sports League and is a member of Christ Covenant MCC (Decatur, Georgia), was recognized by GayWired, the largest on line gay magazine in the United States. www.gaywired.com/article.cfm?section=70&id=17973 Geoff Bullock, author of The Power of Your Love and other praise songs, appeared at MCC Sydney (Australia). Rev. Vicky Kolakowski is a member of the board of the Interfaith Working Group. www.transfaithonline.org. Excel of the Rising Starz is a new team being formed for north Texas. They meet alternately at Promise MCC and MCC of Greater Dallas, with plans to have their first weekend next year. Rev. Melody Wolder was featured on the front page of the Greater Cincinnati (Ohio) LGBT News Magazine. The magazine carried an article about her work as interim pastor of New Spirit MCC. The opening of the new MCC offices in the Triad Building in Abilene, Texas, included a book signing by Jean Gralley. Jackie O'Leary, director of the MCC Newcastle (England) Counseling Service, received the 2008 Community Award for Services and Support for and to the LBGT Community. MCC's Executive Director, Rev. Dr. Cindi Love, serves as a member of the Human Rights Campaign's Religion Council. She appeared on HRC's radio show The Agenda with Joe Solmonese. Another Cruise Opportunity! Join those from MCC of the Rockies (Denver, Colorado) for their trip leaving New York City on September 27. They will visit Boston, Portland, St. John, and Halifax before returning to New York on October 4. Rev. Paul Fairley was the guest preacher for the first anniversary of the evening service at MCC Toronto (Canada). Marvin Bagwell was elected to the American College of Real Estate Lawyers as an "out" attorney. His services as a former deacon at MCC New York (New York) and on MCC's Board of Administration were highlighted in his nomination. Plus, Alejandro Garcia-Jimenez was listed as his spouse! Following viewings of Accessory to Murder: Our Culture's Complicity in the Death of Ryan Skipper, Rev. Phyllis Hunt participated in panel discussions with Ryan's parents, Patricia and Lynn Mulder. At MCC Tampa (Florida), they were joined by the film's producers, Vicki Nantz and Mary Meeks. Other showings were held at Rollins College, Florida Southern College, and the Metro Center of Tampa. Rev. Robin White and Barry Christensen were featured in an article in the Louisville Magazine. Included was a picture of the congregation of MCC Louisville (Kentucky) and information about the church's ministries. The homosexuality and the Bible debate between Rev. Marge Ragona, pastor of Bethel MCC (Birmingham, Alabama) and Patrick Donahue, a Huntsville software developer and Church of Christ evangelist, drew a large crowd and received significant media attention. The Metropolitan Community Theater presented an original show, AWESOMERFIFFIC, from composer/lyricist Tony Buckley. It benefitted MCC of the Coachella Valley's Building Fund and its social outreach programs in the Palm Springs, California, area. A photo and information about the wedding of Bess Watts and Anne Tischer were featured as the introduction to the final chapter of Queer America: A GLBT History of the 20th Century. Rev. Jim Mulcahy of Open Arms MCC (Rochester, New York) officiated at the service. They were the first couple to be denied a marriage license at the Rochester City Hall in 2004. Children, Youth, and Young AdultsMCC Elizabethtown (Kentucky) is beginning a youth program for those 13-18. The Potter's Group, a new ministry for young adults 18-30 at MCC Knoxville (Tennessee), will be meeting twice a month on Saturdays. Sheri and Tammy Fergudux are leading the College and Career group at Harvest MCC (Denton, Texas). They are discussing spiritual issues for a contemporary life. MCC Lubbock (Texas) offers both a Nursery and Sunday School during worship. The children gather early, so that their parents may be involved in the service. The children at MCC Topeka (Kansas) have a fundraiser each quarter for the Mother of Peace Orphanage in Zimbabwe. For one fundraiser, they made and sold wreaths and ornaments. Many will remember Amanda Ackerman's rendition of Breathe at the Calgary General Conference. You can view it now at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNCWqTC9Qiw. Creative Ministry Ideas you can use!Supportive Fundraiser! A member of All Saints' MCC (Christchurch, Aotearoa/New Zealand) has decided to try to lose 25+ kilos in 34 weeks. People were invited to pledge per kilo as encouragement and to raise funds for attendance at the Region 1 Conference in Hawai'i in September. Imani MCC (Durham, North Carolina) held their first Valentine's Day Ball earlier this year and used it as an outreach tool to build their membership. At MCC Knoxville (Tennessee), they played the Newlywed Game at their catered dinner dance. MCC of the Chesapeake (Annapolis, Maryland) puts a link in their e-newsletter to the latest issue of Around the Fellowship and other MCC news. How does your church share the exciting things happening around the MCC world with your congregation? Neat idea! Holy Covenant MCC (Brookfield, Illinois) held a White Elephant Dance and Auction. It provided both a fundraiser for the church and a way to get rid of those unwanted Christmas presents! A Gay Bakery Bingo was held at MCC of Greater Dallas (Texas). Everyone brought their favorite baked specialty for the winners of the Bingo games. Alex Alexander, Mary Klintobe, and Stephanie Tullos coordinated the event. Great follow-up! MCC Manchester (England) has an evening gathering for anyone who has started to attend recently. It is designed to provide information about the church and to help people get to know each other a bit better. MCC of the Lehigh Valley (Allentown, Pennsylvania) has a Weight Loss Support Group meeting every Sunday after morning worship. MCC Illiana (Lake Station, Indiana) has added a Saturday evening service, a streamlined and blended experience of their Sunday service. Paul Butler coordinated a Penny Social for Healing Spirit MCC (Rochester, Minnesota). People purchased tickets for a penny each to put in cups by the prizes they wanted to take home. The winning ticket was drawn from each cup. Of course, there were lots of goodies to eat and time to visit with others. The question "Would you buy Open Arms MCC (Rochester, New York) a cup of coffee, or a bag of chips, or a candy bar, or a bottle of pop?" has been posed to the congregation, asking them to give that amount in addition to their weekly tithe or offering to help reduce their budget deficit. Many US churches have encouraged members to tithe on their economic stimulus checks from the government. SunTrust Bank in Gainesville, Florida, offered to give $100 (USD) to people's favorite charity if they opened a checking account. So the folks at Trinity MCC took advantage of the offer to raise money for their church. MCC Albuquerque (New Mexico) offers a Pilates class every Saturday morning. Mary Ann Latsaras coordinated the annual Women Leading Worship service at Holy Covenant MCC (Brookfield, Illinois). Everything that is done before, during, and after worship was done by women as part of Women's History Month last March. BEAT, the Black Education Awareness Team at MCC Toronto (Canada), presented The Underground Railway as part of their celebration of Black History Month in February. Spin those reels! Folks from MCC Baltimore (Maryland) enjoyed a chartered bus trip to the casinos of Atlantic City. Did they tithe on their winnings??? First MCC of Atlanta (Georgia) celebrated a Soul Food Sunday with Rev. Franc Perry preaching, followed by dinner-on-the-grounds. MCC Omaha (Nebraska) has initiated a "We Belong To..." column in their weekly e-newsletter to educate the readers on the larger MCC world. Go shopping! Earn money for the church! That's what is happening at MCC Richmond (Virginia) as congregants are shopping for two months at Ukrops Supermarket chain, earning one Golden Gift Point for every $1 spent. At the end of the promotion, their gift points will be donated to the church for up to $8000 (USD). A Gold Rush happened at SunCoast Cathedral MCC (Venice, Florida) during which people donated old gold rings, bracelets, necklaces, and teeth. Deacon David Phillips took the items to a gold exchange company for $3,735 (USD) for their building fund. All Saints' MCC (Christchurch, Aotearoa/New Zealand) had a social night of a finger food potluck followed by volleyball, boules, and other outside games. The Music Department of MCC/ICM Los Angeles (California) presented three performances of Godspell - The Concert. MCC Topeka (Kansas) has added a second service featuring contemporary music with piano, organ, guitar, drums and lots of spirit! They installed a 60 inch monitor in the sanctuary to enhance both services. Folks at Church of the Trinity MCC (Sarasota, Florida) bring in small items that they no longer want, which are then sold on eBay. They have raised almost $2000 (USD) so far! The Biggest Loser … Christ Covenant MCC (Decatur, Georgia) style! They are meeting to learn about healthy eating, to exercise, and for some friendly competition. And, in the process, are raising money for the church! Rick Smith, director of ministries, and the 22 ministry leaders sponsored a Ministry Fair on two consecutive Sundays at MCC of the Rockies (Denver, Colorado) to enlist new volunteers. MCC Corpus Christi (Texas) cleared more than $1100 (USD) on their $52 Dinner (a dollar for each week of the year). They are going to make it an annual event! Dare to Dream in 3D: Divas, Dinner and Dance was sold out at MCC Tampa (Florida). Performers included the former Miss Florida and Miss Gay USA title holders. Living Water Project! The folks at Imago Dei MCC (Glenn Mills, Pennsylvania) are collecting 8 oz. bottles of water, which they will re-label with information about the church and give away at Sunday OUT during the Equality Forum in Philadelphia. Elevation performed an evening of Beatles music at MCC Portland (Oregon) with the proceeds of the event going to the Lay Delegates and to the band. The Congregational Care Ministry Team of Cornerstone MCC (Mobile, Alabama) kicked off HelpMates, a new ministry for seniors, singles, and those living with physical challenges offering "caregivers and rescuers" during times of need . MCC News from BrazilThis is an unedited excerpt of an e-mail from a young man from the interior of Brazil to Brazilian MCC leader Rev. Gelson Piber -- an example of how ICM/MCC is transforming lives and bringing hope to people across the nation of Brazil. Pray for Rev. Piber. He is constantly being harassed with "Christian" messages of hate and defamation for preaching the Inclusive Gospel of Jesus. The young Brazilian writes: "I'm 28 and live together with my parents in N. C. do N., Mato Grosso; a small town. Here I work in the administrative area in a factory and I'm studying Administration. "It might seem a trivial story, but behind that I get scary due the lack of good information. Ok, I'm gay and frightened because my parents have been trying to revert my sexuality through therapies and even witchery! "By reading my message one can wonder why I haven't rebelled against all of this yet. The truth is I don't accept myself and depend on my parents, mainly my mom, and also, wouldn't be courageous enough to leave them. "In short: I write you to beg comprehension and tell I want to belong to your family. I urge to feel, even distant from you, that I can belong to a group like yours – of people who think like me, who know that God wants us to be happy and follow Him. "With great joy in the body and spirit, here, I write you to tell you all that God has blessed me with this opportunity of having found the light into my life, because I was depressed and thought there wouldn't be any, due to people's imposition and even mine. Oh, and such light spotted you all into my eyes! My unawareness wouldn't see such a church in Brazil. It's more than a church while it is concerned truly with people as God's children. "Brothers and Sisters, I hope to receive a message from you carrying a word of hope to my life, despite this confused life I live." MCC transitionsRev. Anne James and Rev. Iris Saggers of MCC Brisbane (Australia) announced that they would be retiring in January 2009. Rev. Joseph Shore was ordained at MCC in the Valley (North Hollywood, California). Because of his interest in accessibility issues, interpreters, hearing ear devices, video screen, and large print and Braille programs were provided. The building is accessible for those who are mobility challenged. Rev. Kerri Mesner resigned as pastor of MCC Edinburgh (Scotland). Gentle Shepherd MCC (Tallahassee, Florida) dedicated their new building with Rev. Elder Lillie Brock presiding. The facility sits on 3.7 acres on a major road and is their first permanent home. Rev. Jackie Carter is now the senior pastor at First MCC of Wichita (Kansas). Stephanie Mott is the new director of outreach for MCC Topeka (Kansas). She is a trans music and poetry composer and is well known in the community. MCC in El Paso (Texas) is being led by interim pastor Rev. Katie Houts. Rev. Gale Rawson has resigned the pastorate of Water of Life MCC (Tucson, Arizona). Her last Sunday was May 4. She is moving to Fairbanks, Alaska. MCC/ICM Los Angeles (California) has moved into its recently purchased worship facility at 4953 Franklin Avenue, in Los Feliz, California. They are renovating the facility. The sanctuary has stained glass windows and high ceilings. There is a fellowship hall, kitchen, and a few smaller rooms, as well as a house and garage on the property. They will reconfigure the buildings to create more parking and a larger sanctuary. The church has been used as a place of worship since the early 1900's. Rev. Belle Armstrong resigned the pulpit at MCC Amarillo (Texas). MCC of the Hudson Valley (Albany, New York) held their final worship service on April 13. After intense work by Region 3 to revive the church, the painful decision was made to close the doors. Rev. Pressley Sutherland submitted his letter of resignation as senior pastor of MCC North London (England) after seven years of ministry there. He and his partner, David Bedella, celebrated their final Sunday service at MCCNL the end of March. Rev. Sutherland has accepted the call to pastor Good Hope MCC (Capetown, South Africa). Rev. Carol Lowe is the interim at MCC Corpus Christi (Texas). Rev. Maxwell Reay was appointed associate pastor at MCC Edinburgh (Scotland). He will lead the merged pastoral care and welcoming ministries under the new banner of congregational life. Church of the Trinity MCC (Sarasota, Florida) held a Farewell Reception to honor Rev. David Wynn , as he prepared to move to Fort Worth, Texas, to become the interim pastor at Agape MCC. That same congregation said goodbye to Rev. Dr. Mona West, their senior pastor, on Pentecost Sunday. She has moved to Austin, Texas, to support her partner, Deb, in a job relocation. Katie Harris is the new Executive Liaison and Confidential Assistant for Rev. Elder Glenna Shepherd in Region 4. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it Revs. Marty and Maria Luna-Wolfe have moved to Tucson, Arizona. Rev. Nathan Meckley was elected as senior pastor of MCC Portland (Oregon). He assumed his new duties in mid-June. Rev. Ron LaRoque has been the interim there. Rev. Wes Mullins, who was the associate pastor, accepted the call to become the senior pastor at Pikes Peak MCC (Colorado Springs, Colorado) effective June 1. His parents were present for his final Sunday on Mother's Day. Rev. Elder John Gill is the interim at Gentle Shepherd MCC (Phoenix, Arizona). Rev. Robyn Provis has returned as co-pastor of All God's Children MCC (Minneapolis, Minnesota). William Moran-Berberena was named the executive director of charities at MCC New York (New York). Rev. Tyrone Sweeting moved from Divine Peace MCC (Pontiac, Michigan) to become the interim at MCC of the Blue Ridge (Roanoke, Virginia). Rev. Dan Bennett is now the temporary pastor at Divine Peace MCC. Supporting One AnotherRev. Lee Carlton completed chemotherapy and began three weeks of radiation for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, which is localized and has not impacted any vital organs. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it The father of Rev. Peter Trabaris went home to Heaven during Holy Week. What a glorious Easter he celebrated! This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it The 20-year-old nephew of Rev. Hector Guitierrez passed away from kidney failure earlier this year. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it Hilde Scheibe, the spouse of Connie Meadows for 39 years, passed on in April following a recurrence of lymphoma. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it Kathleen Marie (Kathy) Ruhl, a leader at the former MCC Sacramento (California), passed away. She is survived by Sandy Hasty, her partner of 20 years. Rev. Elder Freda Smith presided at the memorial service. Dr. Eugene Thomas underwent major surgery and is now recuperating at home with visits from home heath care nurses. He is a member of our Ordination Interview Teams and the spouse of Rev. Gordon McCoy. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it Dan Schellhorn, long-time lay leader at MCC Washington DC, in the former Mid Atlantic District, and in Region 3, went home to Jesus surrounded by family and friends on April 23. He was the first MCCer to serve on the Board of Trustees for Lancaster Theological Seminary. A memorial service took place on May 17. Malcolm Smith, personal assistant to Rev. Pat Bumgardner for many years, passed away. Rev. Franc Perry officiated at the memorial service at Riverside Memorial Chapel in New York City. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Editor:Judy Dale, Editor
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