Webinar Library
Miss a conversation? Here you can find every recent program we’ve put on! You can use them to learn for yourself, to inspire conversations in your community and congregation, or to share with those whom you know will be interested in the content.
Click a series below to learn more and view upcoming episodes.
Releasing, Blessing, and Sending Rev. Dr. Chris Davies
Join officers and staff of the United Church of Christ in a “Service of Release.”
We will give thanks for the ministry of Rev. Dr. Chris Davies (Team Leader and Minister, Faith INFO) as she transitions from her role at the National Setting to Do a New Thing.
November 23, 2022
Midterm Elections Ahead: The Fight for Voting Rights
In states across the country, efforts are underway to significantly erode voting rights. Join us to learn more about these threats, and what steps are being taken at the federal level to address them.
You’ll leave with a better understanding of the state of democracy in the U.S. and, more importantly, some concrete actions you can take to protect your and your neighbor’s vote.
April 11, 2022
UCC Justice and Local Church Ministry Grants – 101
Justice and Local Church Ministries of the United Church of Christ has decided to take a bold step in creating a common application that streamlines our granting process.
The hope and goal is to ensure granting is made easier for congregations in the United Church of Christ as we honor the intentions for funding for seven funding areas.
Come and learn about the new application process, application deadlines, and types of congregational grants available from JLCM grants for 2021-2022 cycle.
Looking Back; Looking Forward
Join Rev. Traci Blackmon and Rev. Dr. Chris Davies from the Tuesdays for Nurture and Thursdays for the Soul webinar series for a conversation on where we’ve been—and where we hope to go.
Sharing Leadership in UCC Community
Some mistakenly believe that United Church of Christ faith communities resist leadership by design. The truth is that UCC polity calls on communities to share leadership, voluntarily and covenantally. Sharing leadership is so countercultural, it’s easy to misunderstand.
Join Dean Sarah B. Drummond of Andover Newton Seminary at Yale Divinity School and Rev. Dr. Chris S. Davies for an energizing and timely conversation about Drummond’s new book from the Pilgrim Press, Sharing Leadership: A United Church of Christ Way of Being In-Community.
Davies and Drummond will reflect on questions like, “How can faith communities share leadership well?” and, “How can the UCC help its members to carry the life-giving practices of sharing leadership into their families, communities, and workplaces?”
Rural Congregations of the South/Southwest
In a continuing series regarding the state of rural congregations and ministries in the United Church of Christ today: Join Conference and Local congregational leaders as they speak into the opportunities, challenges, and realities of doing church in rural and small towns in the Southern and Southwestern parts of the U.S.
April 8, 2022
Mind the Gap: Worker Justice, Wage, Medicaid, and the Right to Organize
In part two of this four-part series, we will address the need for worker justice. Over the next few months, we will explore Motherhood, Working and Wage Justice, Debt, and Health Equity.
Join us as we look at the gaps for workers and their families that make it difficult to survive and thrive. We will examine wage, labor organizing, Medicaid Expansion, and how to hold corporations accountable for how they treat workers both in the US and abroad.
Sexuality & The Black Church
Ministers for Racial, Social, and Economic Justice (MRSEJ) is launching a curriculum intended to address the historical challenges faced around fully embracing all expressions of Black sexuality.
While such challenges are not unique in any expression of the church regardless of racial/ethnic identity, ongoing challenges to the recognition of the broad spectrum of gender identities and sexuality are at the heart of many theological, spiritual, psychological, and practical struggles Black congregations face.
Join us for this panel discussion with the thought leaders behind this curriculum and learn more about its origin, intent, and ways you might engage.
The State of Seminary Education
After a year of dramatically increased digital engagement, new ministries and new leadership are emerging everywhere!
How has the increased, open access to theology shifted the landscape of credentialed theological education? What new models help ground spiritual communities theologically, and how are our seminaries preparing current and future leaders of the Church?
Join the presidents of the UCC-affiliated seminaries for a robust conversation moderated by Rev. Elizabeth Dilley, Minister and Team Leader of the Ministerial Excellence, Support, and Authorization (MESA) ministry team in the national setting.
TikTok Ministry: Faith in the World
TikTok Pastors Rev. Timoth Sylvia and Rev. Sarah TevisTownes lead congregations and have literally millions of engagements online.
Join the United Church of Christ for a conversation about TikTok, how ministry is happening creatively, and a celebration of the ways our Faith moves outside of the buildings and traditional expectations upon it.
Purple Church
The United Church of Christ contains people with a wide spectrum of theological beliefs and political alignment. People who choose to be in a church that holds differences of opinion often do so with a few different strategies of love and conflict management.
In this conversation, we will hear from leaders of Purple Churches, or churches that have members across the theological/social/political lines, about how they show up authentically with each other in the midst of difference.
Where Do We Go From Here: COVID-19 in 2021
Please join Rev. Traci Blackmon and Nicolette A. Louissaint, Ph.D., executive director and president of Healthcare Ready: a 501(c)(3) organization that focuses on strengthening the United States’ healthcare supply chain preparedness and response before, during, and after natural disasters and disease pandemics.
Dr. Louissaint will share with us the current state of the virus and vaccinations nationally, as well as considerations community for re-engagement and long-term recovery post-vaccination.
Mind the Gap: Motherhood
In this four-part series, we will address the need for economic justice. Over the next four months, we will explore Motherhood, Working and Wage Justice, Debt, and Health Equity.
Join us for part one on the topic of Motherhood with Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D., co-lead sponsor of the Momnibus bill in the US House of Representatives and member of House Financial Services and Education and Labor Committees.
The conversation will continue with ways that you and your congregation can participate in advocating for paid family leave for all workers beyond the pandemic and the global movement for equity and justice for women and girls. Let’s spend our time honoring mothers by advocating for them effectively!
March 9, 2022
The State of Global Refugees, Migrants and Asylum
The world currently has a crisis as people are on the move for a variety of reasons. Learning about the push and pull of migration, increases the ability to be advocates for changes and policies, with the changes in administration.
Join this conversation for an update on the ways in which communities of faith are involved in addressing the issues facing refugees, migrants and asylum seekers and the ways in which churches are resettling these families and individuals.
March 8, 2022
Getting Ready, Getting Rooted Part 1
Join General Synod Worship Director (Rev. Tracy Howe), planning team members, liturgists, artists, and others who are helping to develop the spiritual foundations as well as the worship, music, and arts programming for this historic virtual gathering.
In this two-part series, Tuesday for Nurture will explore the practical considerations in developing this massive project, many of which translate to the local church as well.
What does it mean to create trauma-informed liturgy? What is does disability justice look like in the virtual environment? How does the expectation of General Synod worship pasts inform what we are creating?
Featuring sneak peeks of original music commissioned for General Synod as well as other art and cultural offerings!
The State of Black Bodies in the US
Dean Kelly Brown Douglas is Dean of the Episcopal Divinity School at Union Theological Seminary and Professor of Theology at Union. She also serves as the Canon Theologian at the Washington National Cathedral and Theologian in Residence at Trinity Church Wall Street.
Her groundbreaking and widely taught book Sexuality and the Black Church: A Womanist Perspective (1999) was the first to address the issue of homophobia within the black church community. Her latest book, Stand Your Ground: Black Bodies and the Justice of God (2015), examines the challenges of a “Stand Your Ground” culture for the black church. The publication of her next book, “Resurrection Hope: A Future Where Black Lives Matter,” is forthcoming.
Join us as Dean Douglas invited us to consider the current state of Black liberation in this country and how we must contend with the myth of Anglo-Saxon Exceptionalism.
Stories Rooted in Love that Dismantle Stigma
Stigma perpetuates the harm that people experience in their communities and in their world. The Gospel calls us to be communities of love and healing. Join the UCC’s Health and Wholeness Advocacy Team for stories and actions rooted in love that help to dismantle stigma.
Building Supportive Networks in Faith Formation
In April 2020, the Wisconsin Conference UCC began offering a weekly drop-in support Zoom for faith formation leaders, both lay and clergy, to provide a safe space for faith formation leaders to talk about how they were navigating the extraordinary and sudden changes to how they engaged in this ministry.
Within a short time, the group expanded to include faith formation leaders from other conferences and other denominations. This has become a community that not only shares ideas and resources but also shares its challenges and frustrations as well as celebrates its joys and successes.
Doctrine of Discovery Hawaii
In their own voices, Hawaii will discuss the destructiveness of the Doctrine of Discovery past and present on their people and how it differs from the experiences of present-day Americas.
Beyond the Children’s Moment: Children’s Ministry Today
Come for a conversation about children’s ministry in 2021. How are we seeing people connect to the children in their congregations and beyond? How do we practice faith formation in creative ways with our children in the midst of a pandemic? Join the Association of Christian Educators chair, Julie Yarborough, and Faith INFO Team Lead, Chris Davies, with esteemed panelists across the UCC discussing how they engage children in the life of the church.
State of Creation
What is necessary to halt the deleterious effects of climate change in the 21st century? Join Rev. Brooks Berndt, Minister for Environmental Justice, UCC, and Jim Antal, author, public theologian, Special Advisor on Climate Justice to the General Minister and President of the United Church of Christ.
Rev. Antal will address:
• The current state of climate change
• The impact of the roll-back of over 100 EPA regulations and disengagement from the Climate Accord; needed reforms
• The role and responsibility of people of faith • Actions we can engage both as individuals and as communities in 2021
Join us in a formal address from Rev. Antal as well as some dialogue moderated by Rev. Brooks Berndt about what we can do together to ensure God’s creation thrives in 2021 and beyond.
Church-Based Reparations
There is a growing call among many US religious groups to explore financial reparations as part of amends through financial investments and long-term programs benefiting African Americans.
We will explore the theological grounding for reparations and will share learnings, mistakes, suggestions for the next steps and practices for engaging the work. Join us for an ecumenical panel discussion of representatives of various predominantly white congregations and entities who have engaged in reparations.
The State of the Poor
Who and what is hurting our poor and low-income siblings? Join Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II, the President & Senior Lecturer of Repairers of the Breach, and Co-Chair of the Poor People’s Campaign, as he addresses the State of the Poor in America in 2021. Rev. Dr. Barber will address:
-The current state of poverty in the US
-The Poor Peoples’ Agenda: Needed reforms
-The role and responsibility of people of faith
and leave us with actions we can engage both as individuals and as communities, as well as some dialogue about what we can do together to ensure that we all have what we need to thrive in 2021 and beyond.
Equity and Equality in the Movement for Racial Justice
Racial justice continues to be a concern for African descendant communities globally. The onset of COVID-19 in early March has affected people across the globe but in the US people of color, particularly Black people, have been disparately affected resulting in heightened racial-ethnic disparities and inequities.
The movement for justice is complex and includes the call for equity and inclusion – issues that are essential to bringing changes in church and society.
Join Rev. Aundreia Alexander, Associate General Secretary for the National Council of Churches, Adele Halliday from The United Church of Canada, and Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia Thompson as they discuss the role of the church in creating a just world for all.
Incorporating Innovation into the Life of the Church
What’s a Theory of Change and why does it matter for local church ministry? If you’d like answers to these questions you didn’t ask, tune into this webinar to learn more about UCC’s new ministry initiative in collaboration with the United Church of Canada and the Disciples of Christ.
You’ll hear from a couple participants who have just gone through the most recent Theory of Change workshop as well as the project lead, the Rev. Phiwa Langeni, who is the Ambassador for Innovation and Engagement in the UCC’s Center for Analytics, Research & Development, and Data (CARDD).
The State of Rural Churches & Communities
In rural and small towns, the church is often a focal point for the spiritual and social well being of a community. During these times of health, economic, and social uncertainties facing the U.S., how are UCC congregations serving rural and small towns, and what are they doing to meet the needs of their communities?
In the United Church of Christ, rural and small congregations make up 60% of the denomination and are the backbone of the UCC.
Join Roberto Ochoa, UCC Program Associate for Congregations of Color/Ethnic Identified Congregations as he moderates a panel of Conference and pastoral leaders as they bring a voice to the celebrations, challenges, and the needs of leading UCC congregations in a rural/small-town setting.
March 7, 2022
The State of the Children
HOW ARE THE CHILDREN? Join Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson, President and CEO of the Children’s Defense Fund, as he addresses the state of our children in America, in 2021.
Dr. Wilson will identify the most pressing issues facing the children, and then note the policy shifts necessary for their care. He will share the measurables to follow as markers of progress. Join us in a formal address from Dr. Wilson as well as some dialogue about what we can do together to ensure that all children have what they need to thrive in 2021 and beyond.
March 3, 2022
Building Back Hope: A Service of Release & Renewal
Please join the United Church of Christ and The People’s Inauguration as we curate space for Release & Renewal at the intersection of Pain & Promise. At the close of Martin Luther King Day Celebrations and on the cusp of the 47th Inauguration, we will worship together bearing witness to this past year and pouring Hope into the future.
What Shall We Say to These Things? Crafting a Social Gospel for the 21st Century
Join us for a 90-minute inter-generational conversation, between Ruby Sales: a member of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) in the 1960s, founder of the Spirit House Project, and one of fifty African Americans spotlighted in the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History; and Brittany Packnett Cunningham: Ferguson Commissioner and activist, co-founder of Campaign Zero, NBC News and MSNBC contributor, and member of President Obama’s 21st Century Task Force, as we discuss the current role of faith and faith leaders in the midst of socio-political crisis. This conversation will be moderated by Rev. Traci Blackmon.
Watch the recording of “The People’s Inauguration.” https://thepeoplesinauguration.org/
February 25, 2022
Hindsight is 2020: An Overview
As we begin 2021, it’s important to look back at 2020 and the year that has formed us in so many ways. In this session, we will lift specific clips from the 75+ recorded resources throughout 2020 available for your congregation to use. From changing the world, to growing ourselves, and growing our congregations towards Justice, all Tuesday programs include clear suggestions for you and your congregation. Join us as we remember some highlights of popular 2020 Tuesdays for Nurture Webinars!
Hymn Sing!
Join us as we gather together to listen to the music of advent and Christmas, sing along, and close the year off together! You are welcome to dress up and “show off” your Christmas spirit throughout the program. We are looking forward to being together digitally once again this year.
February 16, 2022
Stepping into the Archives
The United Church of Christ has a complex history full of stories of people. We came together calling, Let Them All Be One! And we are seeking ways to unite ever since, even as we clarify our purpose in loving God with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength and our neighbor as ourselves; and our vision in uniting through Christ’s love towards a just world for all. Join Caroline Dunleavy, Executive Director of the Evangelical and Reformed Historical Society, and Ed Cade, Associate for Historical Preservation and Archivist, as we browse through our archives.
Christmas Songs and Stories: with Author Catherine Foote & Musician Bob Perkins
It’s Advent, and we’re heading back to Catherine Foote’s barn for a couple of Christmastime stories from Catherine’s book, “Shepherding the Seasons.” Catherine will be joined by musician Bob Perkins who will sing classic and original Christmas carols; you can even sing along with him at home! Shepherding the Seasons is available at thepilgrimpress.com and wherever your favorite ebooks are sold.
United and Uniting Partners: A Conversation with Global Allies
Join us for insight from and discussion with two world Communion leaders: Michael Blair, General Secretary of the United Church of Canada, and Colleen Geyer, General Secretary for the Uniting Church of Australia. We will ask them about the impact of the US elections on their country, how their clergy and churches are adjusting to the global pandemic, what they are doing to fight racism – and so much more! Come and meet these two remarkable leaders and learn more about our relationships with our United and Uniting partners around the world.
New Church Starts: The Future of Our Church
“Churches that love their models more than their mission will die.” Carey Nieuwhof Some researchers are suggesting that it’s time for the 21st-century churches to shift their approach to ministry. What will the future church be like? While no one’s sure of what’s ahead, talking about it and exploring new approaches to ministry can position us for impact in a changing world. In this webinar, we will explore the future of the church through the lens of church planters inside the United Church of Christ. Come ask questions and hear some of the cutting-edge approaches to ministry that are being taken by our church planters.
A Post-Election Conversation with the UCC Washington Office
Join the UCC Washington office staff in post-election conversation: what have we learned, what are the challenges before us, legislatively and more generally to our common life, what are some of the key and urgent issues that will face the new Congress.
Youth Ministry Today: Programmatic Suggestions
Local UCC youth ministers will share practical steps for you to engage your youth as we live through the current health pandemic, but also grapple with the uprise of racial injustice and intolerance of groups who have traditionally been deemed “other.”
Inside RIP Medical Debt
Inside RIP Medical Debt: Experience the Story Understanding how RIP Medical Debt works and our partnership to eliminate medical debt from some of our most vulnerable neighbors. Join Rev. Traci Blackmon, Associate General Minister of Justice & Local Church Ministries and Rev. Kent Siladi, Director of Philanthropy, as they discuss this important initiative with Scott Patton, Director of Development for RIP, for this important conversation.
Confronting Authoritarianism with Courageous and Compassionate Conversation
A conversation between Rev. Traci Blackmon and Brian McLaren about American Christianity, politics, faith and doubt. In a world where faith is often polluted with authoritarianism and nationalism, McLaren suggests that we need the courage to question the status quo and seek a more just and generous faith that holds space for difference in a polarized world.
What is the Doctrine of Discovery?
In their own voices, First Nations Indigenous People will discuss the destructiveness of the Doctrine of Discovery on their peoples in what is presently known as the Americas and the Caribbean.
January 4, 2022
Shifting Focus: Youth Ministry in 2020 and Beyond
UCC pastors from a variety of settings discuss how this year in particular has greatly shifted the needs and expectations of those engaged in youth ministry. Join us to learn more and ask questions you have about the new needs and expectations of youth ministry.
Featuring:
Rev. Jill Olds
Rev. Trayce Potter
Leea Allen, Min. of Faith and Justice
Todd Atkins-Whitley, Pastor of Danville Church
Building Church Differently: A Conversation with CBLF
Join Rev. Dr. Patrick Duggan and Rev. Susan Mitchell in a conversation convened by Rev. Dr. Chris Davies about Building Church Differently, CB&LF’s new brand for webinars and consulting services in 2020, where creativity and innovation calls us into a different way of sharing Gospel.
UCC Church Building and Loan Fund (CBLF) has been a leader in mission and ministry, and their continued work to help congregations align their ministries with their communities is even more essential these days. Bring your questions, your curiosity, and your willingness to listen to the Spirit in Building Church Differently.
Strengthening the Bonds Between Us
The UCC Musicians Association is a national organization of clergy, musicians and laity, inspiring, educating, and nurturing those who minister through music and the arts. Join board members as they offer ideas to strengthen the bonds between clergy and musicians, our congregations and the global community during this time of isolation. They will address the challenges of planning worship, learning new technology, and the vital need for collegial support and professional development to equip and sustain us.
Your Backstage Pass: How We Do Digital Events and Measure Impact
Join the Center for Analytics, Research & Development, and Data and the Tech Team of our webinars to learn HOW we are pulling them off! We’ve compiled the best practices documents, we’re navigating Zoom and other digital platforms and all of their updates, and we’re STILL learning as we go. We’ll reveal HOW we make the magic happen behind the scenes and invite your questions along the way.
Featuring: The Innovativeness of the Rev. Phiwa Langeni
The Off-Camera Wisdom of Taylor Russell
The Social Media and Tech Savviness of Laurel Steinetz
The Brilliance of Backstage Manager Jennifer White
Minister of Chat and Community Support Anissa Glaser-Bacon
Hosted by the Merry-Making Rev. Dr. Chris Davies.
Exploring the UCC Statistical Profile: Our Stories and Identity Told Numerically
If you’ve ever wondered about general trends in the UCC or even how your local church fares in relation to others, you’ll want to attend this presentation of the latest UCC Statistical Profile produced by the Center for Analytics, Research & Development, and Data (CARDD). Whether statistics entice joy or not, this webinar will have a balanced approach to the numbers and some of the stories behind them.
Join CARDD Director Dr. Erica Dollhopf and Ambassador for Innovation and Engagement Rev. Phiwa Langeni as they highlight this insight-filled document.
October 9, 2021
Suppressed Screening
Over the years it has taken many forms, but voter suppression has existed since the nation’s founding. The landmark 1965 Voting Rights Act was a significant step forward in addressing voter suppression and protecting the right to vote for all Americans.
In a 2013 Supreme Court decision, key provisions of the Voting Rights Act were gutted. Within hours of the decision, many states imposed severe restrictions on voting rights. “Suppressed: The Fight to Vote” is a documentary by Robert Greenwald that weaves together personal stories from voters across the state of Georgia to reveal the widespread voter suppression in the 2018 midterm election.
Join with Director of the UCC Washington DC Office, Sandy Sorensen and UCC International Policy Advocate, Katie Adams for this screening of Suppressed. The screening will conclude with an action plan for viewers to protect voting rights in the 2020 elections.
Watch the trailer for Suppressed: https://youtu.be/CJZkxJKPyAE
RESOURCES:
Threshold Moments: A Ritual for Voting https://www.ucc.org/threshold_moments…
Our Faith Our Vote https://www.ucc.org/ourfaithourvote
Civic Action Center https://p2a.co/zv3KyiE
Election Protection Hotline 866-OUR-VOTE (1-866-687-8683)
SANKOFA: Reaching Back & Stepping Up
Join Rev. Traci Blackmon for a conversation with Rev. Dr. Allan Boesak & Rev. Dr. Curtiss DeYoung, co-authors of the book: Radical Reconciliation: Beyond Political Pietism and Christian Quietism. (Maryknoll: Orbis. https://www.orbisbooks.com/radical-re…)
Featuring:
Rev. Dr. Allan Boesak South African United Reform Church pastor, liberation theologian, anti-apartheid activist, and former chairman of the Western Cape region of the African National Congress (ANC)
Rev. Dr. Curtiss DeYoung Chief Executive Officer of the Minnesota Council of Churches and an ordained minister of The Church of God. He has also served as the Executive Director of Community Renewal Society in Chicago
Rev. Traci D. Blackmon Associate General Minister of Justice & Local Church Ministries for The United Church of Christ and Senior Pastor of Christ The King United Church of Christ in Florissant, MO.
RESOURCES: Becoming Like Creoles: Living and Leading at the Intersections of Injustice, Culture, and Religion: https://www.fortresspress.com/store/p…
Children of the Waters of Meribah: Black Theology, the Miriamic Tradition, and the Challenges of 21st Century Empire.” (Cascade: 2019) https://wipfandstock.com/children-of-…
Radical Reconciliation: Beyond Political Pietism and Christian Quietism: https://www.orbisbooks.com/radical-re…
Building Bridges of Faith Across Political Divides
In a time when our nation is becoming increasingly more socially, politically, and spiritually divided, what does our faith require of us?
Join Rev. Robert L. Schenck, Rev. Traci Blackmon and Rev. Dr. John C. Dorhauer for this timely conversation.
Supporting Your Pastor So They Can Support You
Pastoral Relations Committees are a key way for a congregation to support a healthy relationship between pastor and congregants. It also increases the effectiveness of the church’s ministry. These confidential, supportive, caring and honest groups promote healthy communication; they express care for pastors in all seasons of shared ministry. Join a conversation with pastors and church leaders to explore how these communities of trust can help enhance your church’s ministry in a pandemic and beyond.
Organize the Church: Voter Registration, Education, and Mobilization
Join us for this engaging conversation about electoral politics and the role the church is called to play to ensure every voice is heard. This webinar continues the OUR FAITH/OUR VOTE 2020 Series as we journey toward elections. Featuring Leah Daughtry, Stacey Abrams and Traci Blackmon, as well as Director of the UCC’s DC Office, Sandy Sorenson.
October 8, 2021
No Justice No Peace: Youth & Young Adult Racial Justice Rally
The United Church of Christ actively believes that youth and young adults are vital to the church and society and to that end, we are dedicated to creating leadership development opportunities, resources, events and programs for those from ranging from sixth grade through their mid-30s.
Youth and young adults within the United Church of Christ are gathering virtually with special guests to host a rally around the topic of Race Relations & Justice as a starting place for future engagement and leadership development opportunities. We have been hearing from our young people who have said this is a priority. They are interested in dialogue with each other across racial barriers and leaders about their experience(s), steps to create a just world for all and addressing the unrest we see around racism, the abuse of power by some uniformed officers and the helplessness many are feeling regardless of age, race or gender.
This rally is geared to hearing from people of color, but it is important that our white allies of all ages be present to hear as well. This rally, in conjunction with part two to be held on July 30th, provides immediate actions as well as the development of a long-term strategy to engage dismantling racism.
October 6, 2021
A Conversation with Rev. Dr. Wilda C. Gafney, Ph.D.: A Women’s Lectionary for the Whole Church
The Rev. Dr. Wil Gafney is a scholar, pastor, preacher and activist. She is the Right Rev. Sam B. Hulsey Professor of Hebrew Bible at Brite Divinity School in Ft. Worth, TX. Dr. Gafney is also an Episcopal priest and remains a member of the historic African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas in Philadelphia, PA. She is the author of Womanist Midrash: A Reintroduction to Women of the Torah and of the Throne, a commentary on Nahum, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah in the Wisdom series; Daughters of Miriam: Women Prophets in Ancient Israel; and co-editor of The Peoples’ Bible and The Peoples’ Companion to the Bible. She is the author of A Women’s Lectionary for the Whole Church and translator of its biblical selections. Please join us for this important conversation with Dr. Gafney about her latest groundbreaking work: A Women’s Lectionary for the Whole Church.
September 28, 2021
UCC Justice and Local Church Ministry Grants – 101
Justice and Local Church Ministries of the United Church of Christ has decided to take a bold step in creating a common application that streamlines our granting process.
The hope and goal is to ensure granting is made easier for congregations in the United Church of Christ as we honor the intentions for funding for seven funding areas.
Come and learn about the new application process, application deadlines, and types of congregational grants available from JLCM grants for 2021-2022 cycle.
September 21, 2021
2022 Midterm Elections Ahead: The Fight for Voting Rights
In states across the country, efforts are underway to significantly erode voting rights. Join us to learn more about these threats, and what steps are being taken at the federal level to address them.
You’ll leave with a better understanding of the state of democracy in the U.S. and, more importantly, some concrete actions you can take to protect your and your neighbor’s vote.
Congregational Lay Leadership During Times of Crisis
What is the ministry of the laity in the church? In the best of times, lay leadership often means assisting the pastoral staff to meet the needs of the congregation and to fulfill its mission of spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
What happens when the congregation, due to various circumstances, are without an ordained clergy as pastor? What role does the laity play in providing pastoral care to the congregation during times of crisis and transitions?
Come and listen as congregational lay leaders discuss the challenges and opportunities of leading congregations as empowered ministers of the laity.
RESOURCES:
Coronavirus (Covid-19) and the Church
Congregational Leaders Box: A Leadership Development Resource for Local Churches
Congregations interested in Ministries of Justice
UCC Church Building and Loan Fund
Suggested books published by Pilgrim Press to address congregational transitions, conflicts and more
September 2, 2021
The Power of Boundaries
Boundaries are necessary and are shaped by our lived experience. Whether we set boundaries for our personal limits or for the ways we engage with our work and world, they can be difficult to set and maintain. How have these recent months, when we’ve moved online and have constant access, affected our boundaries? And how do we shape and hold boundaries that enable us to be as present as possible with each other and with the world? Join Rev. Dr. Chris Davies, Rev. Tara Barber, and Eleta Wright, MSW, member of Liberation UCC in Seattle to talk about the Power of Boundaries.
RESOURCES:
A Sure Foundation: Resources for the Relationship between Pastors and Congregations
September 1, 2021
How to NOT Add an Unintended Legal Battle to your Church’s Worries
Join United Church of Christ’s General Counsel Heather Kimmel and Rev. Dr. Chris Davies of Faith INFO for a conversation about all the questions we’ve been collectively asked over the past few months and beyond. If you’re into bylaws, if you’re into copyright questions, if you need general information about some of the caveats of the time and the opportunities to gather with legal, safe, and compassionate community via church, this is the webinar for you.
RESOURCES:
YouTube Copyright & Fair use Policies
CCLI — Christian Copyright Licensing International
August 30, 2021
Revolutionary Love: A Conversation between Rev. Traci Blackmon and Valarie Kaur
As a nation, we are experiencing our own awakening right now. We are in the midst of an uprising for Black lives the world has never seen. Millions of us are flooding the streets, risking our lives, to call for justice since George Floyd’s public lynching. Millions more are rising up in solidarity. Revolutionary love is when you are brave enough to see no stranger.
This uprising is possible because of movement leaders who have been in the labor for decades — now joined by newly inaugurated activists – and the many generations of freedom fighters, of ancestors that came before us.
In her new book “See No Stranger,” Valarie Kaur uses stories of police brutality and corruption, prison abolition and national protest movements to illustrate the power of Revolutionary Love as a force for justice.
Join Valarie Kaur and Rev. Traci Blackmon for a conversation about Revolutionary Love, and how we can live into this awakening as people of faith.
August 27, 2021
How to Fundraise in a time of COVID
How to Fundraise in a Time of COVID19: “In these uncertain times…” “As we approach another week which has lasted a year…” “We pray that you are well,” “In this unprecedented time…” “When we find stability again…” And other phrases have been at the forefront of our collective communications. And we still are committed to raising money for the causes and entities which carry out the work we are aligned with.
Listen alongside the panelists Rev. Starsky Wilson, President & C.E.O. of the Deaconess Foundation, Dr. Susan Thistlethwaite, President Emerita, Professor Emerita of Chicago Theological Seminary, and Ms. Jaqueline Owen, Development Strategist of the United Church of Christ, National Setting, as they discuss the challenges and opportunities for fundraising and making money work towards the greater vision of God.
Creating Space for Innovation
Join Rev. Dr. John C. Dorhauer and Rev. Dr. Chris Davies in a conversation about creating space for innovation in the United Church of Christ. John brings forward suggestions and skills for helping to make meaning and draw from the wisdom of what you already know, to pivot towards what is needed, right now, in your context. Watch with a willingness to listen, and with a playful spirit!
RESOURCES:
Innovation and Inspiration: What’s New in the UCC?!
The Urgency of NOW
Now is the time to push beyond public protest to systemic change. Join with Bishop William Barber & Rev. Dr. Liz Theoharis, co-chairs of the Poor People’s Campaign, and Rev. Sandy Sorenson, Director of Public Policy and Advocacy for the National Setting, to talk about a moral agenda for Election 2020.
Leading Small and Rural Churches
Representation of rural church matters. Rural churches need to be heard.
As Covid-19 spreads throughout the country and globally, what are the challenges and opportunities facing rural/small congregations? How does one lead a rural/small congregation during a global pandemic? How are pastoral leaders from rural/small able to respond to the needs of their congregations and communities?
Listen and learn from rural/small church UCC pastoral leaders who are answering the call to lead in a time such as this.
The Science of Return
Come and listen to a panel of experts about the Science of returning to church. What should we be attentive to? What do we need to know? How can we gather together again, safely? We are answering questions, listening to what our panelists are learning and thinking about in terms of how to return safely to gathering again in worship.
August 26, 2021
Digital Pastoring: Content and Connection
A conversation between Rev. Blackmon and Rev. Courtney Clayton Jenkins.
Church isn’t just the building or the worship. And yet worship is so important! How are we engaging the pastoring of people with digital worship and beyond, in COVID times?
Come to the (digital) Table: A conversation on Communion, online
Join us to talk about communion, digitally. With theologians Cheryl Lindsay, Claudio Carvalhaes, Sue Blain and Bob Gross, we will discuss the sacrament of communion, implications and opportunities of communion online, and end with a ritual where there is space for you to join; no matter if you partake, or not.
LGBTQ+ Pastoral Care, Justice, and COVID-19
This webinar features a diverse panel to discuss the risks and challenges faced by many people with LGBTQ+ identities. Join us for this important conversation about addressing LGBTQ+ pastoral care and justice opportunities in the context of COVID-19.
RESOURCES:
Proyecto Encuentros Gracia y Bienvenida Toolkits
UN Policy on Human Rights and COVID
Pastoring in a Pandemic: Conversation between Bishop Flunder and Rev. Blackmon
Rev. Traci Blackmon will speak with Bishop Yvette Flunder, who continues to be a part of the spiritual response to the HIV/AIDS crisis.
Listen to wisdom leaders in the United Church of Christ, and the Fellowship of Affirming Ministries discuss pastoring through a pandemic.
Rev. Traci D. Blackmon is the Associate General Minister of Justice & Local Church Ministries for The United Church of Christ and Senior Pastor of Christ The King United Church of Christ in Florissant, MO.
Bishop Yvette A. Flunder serves as the Senior Pastor of City of Refuge UCC, and as the Presiding Bishop of The Fellowship of Affirming Ministries. She is a Senior Fellow at Auburn Theological Seminary, and a board member at Starr King School of the Ministry, and DEMOS. She is a graduate of Pacific School of Religion (MA) and San Francisco Theological Seminary (D.Min). Author of and contributor to several books and publications addressing the affirmation of those most marginalized by religion and society.
August 24, 2021
Faithfully making YOU and YOUR VOTE count in the time of COVID
Mind the Gap
Description: In this four part-series, we will address the need for economic justice. Over the next four months, we will explore Motherhood, Working and Wage Justice, Debt, and Health Equity.
May 4, 2021
Getting Ready, Getting Rooted Part 1
In part II, of Getting Ready, Getting Rooted – Thursdays For the Soul, General Synod Worship Director (Rev. Tracy Howe), planning team members, liturgists, artists, and others will look at the formation and how the spiritual journey and sub-themes of the General Synod worship services were developed. Featuring sneak peeks of original music commissioned for General Synod as well as other art and cultural offerings!
April 22, 2021
The State of Global Refugees, Migrant and Asylum
The world currently has a crisis as people are on the move for a variety of reasons. Learning about the push and pull of migration, increases the ability to be advocates for changes and policies, with the changes in administration.
Join this conversation for an update on the ways in which communities of faith are involved in addressing the issues facing refugees, migrants, and asylum seekers and the ways in which churches are resettling these families and individuals.
April 6, 2021
Need more worship resources?
Worship Ways are original liturgies written in English and in Spanish by United Church of Christ pastors, based on readings from the Revised Common Lectionary. Look for Sunday, festival and special UCC worship services, organized by seasons of the Church Year.
Support UCC Webinars
Covid-19 has kept us apart for so long. We miss you too! We look forward to seeing you in person again when we are all safe. Be sure to check out ucc.org/events for those in-person events!