A Calendar of Prayer for the United Church of Christ contains stories from across the United States and from around the world that illustrate the depth and breadth of the mission outreach of the United Church of Christ. Globally, that outreach is done in partnership with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) through the common witness of Global Ministries. There are stories that reflect the rich diversity of our denomination as well. They are stories of local congregations, individuals, and faith communities from around the world that speak to the one church, the one body of Christ. A body that is covenantal, supportive, accountable, and welcoming within the world. We give thanks for the support that you have given to the church through your gifts of time, talents, and treasures. We give you thanks for your generous support of the special offerings of the church, as well as your support of Our Church's Wider Mission without which many of these ministries would not take place or be heard.

This edition of A Calendar of Prayer is produced as a gift for the church from the church. The stories are our stories of mission and ministry in Christ's Name. As a people who express a legacy of extravagant welcome, these stories serve as a sample of that unique gift that we offer as a denomination. We encourage you to read about the many ways that God is still speaking to and through us today.

We encourage you to use this publication in your daily prayer and meditation. Use it in any gathering of the church whenever you can. It can be used in morning prayers, when a congregation's staff meets, at a committee meeting, or at an Association or Conference gathering. We hope that the stories will be heard in many places and prayers will be offered for those engaged in mission, wherever they may be. A Calendar of Prayer continues to be a reminder to us all that we are a united and uniting people, called to unflinchingly welcome all to this church. Let us be a church supportive of one another; celebrating the Gospel with renewed resolve and mutual support in our common ministry.

"In Mission" is designed to connect you and your congregation with the ministries that make us the UCC. It can be a worship resource, a devotional resource, and a quick reference guide. Check out the "How to Use 'In Mission' page" for tried and true ways to use this resource. Do you have a story to submit of a local, regional, conference wide or other outreach in which your congregation participates? For submission to the Calendar of Prayer simply send the 150 word story with contact information (Church Name, address, phone number, e-mail and Web site) to: calendarofprayer@ucc.org

How to use the Bible as a tool for meditation!

Our online community is a great place to explore spirituality and share your faith journey with others. Our Spirit Cafe; offers music videos for meditation, a gallery of free sacred art, and a real-time prayer chapel for daily evening prayer.

• i.UCC.org
• i.UCC.org Spirit Café
• Real-time Prayer Chapel