"What is the church doing to respond to the current economic crisis?"

This question was addressed by the UCC's 27th General Synod in Grand Rapids and the result was a resolution titled "Ministering to Those Struggling and Suffering in The Troubled Economy."

The resolution was presented to the General Synod by the Michigan Conference in the hopes of beginning a dialog within the UCC "to envision, encourage, support and strengthen outreach ministries that serve those in distress due to issues such as unemployment, bankruptcy, dislocation, hunger, illness, and financial problems."

For the next six weeks Keeping You e-Posted will draw attention to one of the questions posed at the UCC's Congregational Vitality page dedicated to the discussion of the resolution. Biblical reflections, assessments, planning tools and video resources can also be found on the links at this site.

"We hope these discussions grow into a resource that helps even more congregations minister effectively to spiritual, emotional and financial needs within their communities," says Doris Powell, UCC minister for pastors and congregational stewardship. "Multiplying ministries to restore communities is the vision."

Check back weekly throughout Advent as new questions are posed and resources are added to help your congregation reach out in this time of need.