Soul Food For March 2016
PASTOR MIKE’S MUSINGS
March affords us multiple openings to experience and participate in our progressive and progressing church.
Our United Church of Christ marketing slogan is: Whoever you are, wherever you are on the journey of life, you are welcome here. It reflects our value of inclusiveness. Yet, it takes time to really get to know fellow church attendees. Saying hello on Sunday morning is not enough.
So, the Elders have planned a Mix It Up social Saturday, March 5, to give everyone a chance to become better acquainted. It’s structured on the model of speed-dating. You spend a few minutes sharing with one person before rotating on to the next. Guided questions will be offered to enhance the fun and conversation. Wine and cheese helps too. Such a format may seem a little intimidating to introverted folks, but give it a try.
March 6 we hear a progress report from our Global Ministries pilgrims to Cuba. Peace and justice anyone?
The progressive Christian movement in America began with pastors in congregational churches who availed themselves of the latest in education. Most all of the private colleges and universities in America were started by churches.
We are proud and fortunate to have DOC and UCC related Chapman University in our backyard. Founders Day March 11-12 is an annual invite to expand your heart and mind.
Our youth are well educated about other faith traditions, thanks in large measure to the Annual Interfaith Senior High Youth Forum, held this year at the Pacifica Institute in Irvine on Sunday, March 13. Robbie will be leading our youth and I hope many will plan to attend. I will also.
March 19 at 4 PM is our annual MEN ALIVE concert and fundraiser. I hope we never take for granted the advancements that have been made for LGBTQI folks in society. Let’s support the choir, our church, and an ONA ministry to the world.
March 15-17 I will attend the Westar Jesus Seminar in Santa Rosa to hear the latest in progressive scholarship. I appreciate a church that supports its pastor keeping up.
March 20 is Palm Sunday, and March 27 is Easter, which we always approach in unorthodox ways. My last request: promote the faith by inviting others to these events.
Peace and Light,
~Pastor Mike