Covenant Connections

My top ten list of things for which I am thankful right now...

2011-11-26T05:59:00.000-08:00

10. Two newly installed pastors, Matt Smith in Silver City NM and Sharon LIttrell in Rio Rancho NM.
9. An Executive Board and a Mission Planning Board who are very good at what they do.
8. A clergy retreat two weeks ago that gave me the opportunity to hang out with some pretty amazing pastors.
7. Two churches that, right now, are doing some amazing work and growing like crazy: Faith in Dewey and COGS in Albuquerque.
6. A Committee on Church and Ministry that takes its work very seriously and is building confidence with our covenantal partners.
5. A group of cherished friends and colleagues in the Council of Conference Ministers with whom working side by side is an honor.
4. A very successful Mission1 effort!
3. Barbara and Holly: enough said.
2. Mimi - who makes coming home every day a true joy.
1. The St. Louis Cardinals winning the World Series.

Ecclesiastical Councils Three

2011-07-19T15:45:00.000-07:00

Three Councils over 8 days; two churches; a couple hundred miles in between - but the same result each time.

Christ Hinkle

Alan Joplin

Beth Frigard

All successfully completed their Ecclesiastical Council. The first two were held at First Congregational UCC in Tempe, and the last one at Rincon UCC in Tucson.

We lift them each up in prayer as their new vocational careers in ministry begin. May it please God to bless them along the way.

It Is Official:

2011-07-05T06:06:00.000-07:00

W. Mark Clark has been elected as the Associate General Minister and President of the United Church of Christ.

Let me share our deep and profound joy for and pride in this child of the Southwest Conference.

More from Synod

2011-07-04T12:21:00.000-07:00

I love Synod!

Immokalee farm workers (who led a successful boycott of Taco Bell for using tomatoes picked by underpaid and abused farm workers) were present and led a March to protest Publix Supermarkets. We marched with them and led our protest for their own use of underpaid farm workers. We came out in large numbers on this 4th of July - I am so proud of the United Church of Christ!

More from Synod...

2011-07-04T06:13:00.000-07:00

Though there have been many, and I mean MANY, incredible moments at Synod, I can't imagine there will be a better one than this.

W. Mark Clark delivers his Nomination Speech to Synod, and the floor planners put the Southwest Conference delegation table directly in front of the podium from which he spoke.

By the time he finished, we were all in tears. We were moved. The Spirit is in this, and we lift Mark up in prayer as he begins his ministry as an officer of the United Church of Christ.

A side-note: Mark came and spoke to our delegation during our morning caucus yesterday morning. Before he left (he had three breakfast meetings that day), we formed a circle around him, laid hands upon him, and lifted him up in prayer.

I took this picture while he was speaking, and the background seemed appropriate: the sun is rising on W. Mark Clark, and under his leadership on the United Church of Christ.

Music come alive as we 'imagine what's possible'!

2011-07-02T06:37:00.001-07:00

The remarkable musical duo Nuttin' but Strings' enlived Synod this morning as two young men from Jamaica Queens escaped the violence of their streets by making music. These Juliard trained musicians combine Hip-Hop and Classical music to communicate in very powerful ways what it means to be multi-cultural.

This is an unexpected surprise!

Postings from Synod....

2011-07-02T05:40:00.000-07:00

Throughout the week, I will be posting pics and stories from Synod.

Synod is, in one way, about meeting and greeting friends with whom you renew acquaintances.

Here are two dear friends, one from another time and place, and one from a Pastor in the Southwest attending his first Synod.

This is the Rev. Diane Hampton, chaplain in the US Navy and a dear friend of mine from when I knew her as the pastor of our Church in Joplin, MO.

This is the Rev. Dr. Vernon Meyer, pastor at Sun Lakes UCC south of Phoenix and, like me, an alum of both Prep North High School and Cardinal Glennon College.

So far, Synod is a blast!!!!

Wish you were here. Stay tuned for more.

Away at Camp...

2011-06-23T07:42:00.000-07:00

I used to do this every year.

Then I went into Conference Ministry, and just couldn't make it happen.

This year I made it happen.

When asked if I miss working in the parish, I say no. I am doing what I was called to do, and love what I do. But then I add: "What I miss is working with the youth and children." Conference Ministry just doesn't afford me many opportunities to do that.

And so what happened this week came as pure joy to me.

There was the lunch in an amazing setting:

Children falling asleep exhausted after a full day in the lap of someone they trust:

Getting to know a quirky, energetic, fun-loving group of kids:

Playing in the water on a hot day:

Meeting a ton of new friends:

Let me add one more thing: the youth and young adults who volunteer their time to make these experiences come a live for our children are among the most dedicated, passionate, creative, faithful, brilliant, energetic, and committed people I have had the pleasure to work with. Our program staff, our counselors, our volunteers give the Southwest Conference a good name. I am proud to work with them, honored to have won their trust, and lucky to have spent this time with them:

Red Rocks

2011-06-18T12:20:00.001-07:00

This past Sunday, I drove up to Sedona to participate in the Installation of the Rev. Dr. Donna Cavedon as the Associate Pastor at Church of the Red Rocks.

It was, to be sure, a magnificent afternoon and evening.

I will let the pictures tell the story.

Here is the view as you walk up to the church - it is stunningly beautiful:

Here is Donna pictured with the Sr. Pastor, The Rev. Dr. George Ault. They look very happy, don't they:

Here is Donna with the Confirmands, all of whom were willing to participate in this Installation:

And here I am with Donna and the one we simply refer as The Saint, the Rev. Dr. Dosia Carlson:

An Historic Church Closes Its Doors...

2011-06-14T09:57:00.001-07:00

This is a picture of First Congregational Tucson early in my tenure here in the Southwest Conference.

On Saturday, we gathered as a Conference to dissolve the church. It was a sad, celebrative day. A day in which a church's history was recounted with pride and dignity. A day when tears were shed - some of them in grief, some of them in joy.

Mission partners were present to receive gifts from the proceeds of the sale of the property: HIV-AIDS support networks, relief agencies for Somali refugees and Zambian orphans, Camp scholarships, and new church starts - among others.

Cakes were cooked from recipe books published by the church in 1909.

Names and faces and stories attached to them emerged throughout the afternoon.

A courageous former Missouri Synod Lutheran preacher came back home to the church that was first willing to receive her ministry: the Rev. Dr. Donna Schaper.

If you want to see more, go here and see how a very good photographer captured images that tell a deeper story about the day. His images reveal much.

A Full Weekend

2011-06-06T11:25:00.001-07:00

What a rich and joyous weekend this was! It was one of those weekends that reminds me how fortunate I am to be offering ministry in a setting like the Southwest Conference.
On Friday, Josh Whistler graduated from Iliff Seminary. We are very proud of Josh. We lift him up in prayer and look forward to him completing his steps toward Ordination.

On Saturday, I spent the morning and afternoon with a creative and energetic group of youth, young adults, and (ahem) more mature adults planning our Church camps for the summer. Here are some photos.
A group deep in thought, no doubt diggin up some profound biblical insight and finding a creative skit, game, or activity they will use to communicate that insight:

And somewhat less insightful, but no less delightful, Ray Gentry dancing to Michael Jackson's "Thriller." Ray and his wife Donna came to cook for the camp planners and provide us lunch.

On Saturday evening, I attended a 20th anniversary celebration for Steve Davis, who has completed 20 years of ministry at Shepherd of the Hills UCC in Phoenix. The celebration included a 'Cabaret' - replete with Steve being serenaded over and over again, a clear outporing of love, gratitude, and pride for their pastor:

And here Steve Davis is at the end of the night sharing laughter and joy with a dear friend, the Rev. Steve Wayles:

And then Sunday I drove up to Dewey, AZ where Faith Community United Church of Christ celebrated the Installation of their new Pastor, the Rev. Diane Thomas. Here she is with her good friend, and preacher for the day, the Rev. Ken Heintzelman:

Among those attending the service was a founding member, Anna Parker, whose husband was also the founding pastor of the church.

What a full weekend this was. I leave it with a deep sense of joy and satisfaction.

A Documentary in the Making

2011-06-03T14:22:00.000-07:00

The following was sent to me by David Mellot, member at Church of the Beatitudes. He has spent the last year working on a Documentary film called "The Exodus." He is hoping the finish production in time for an early December release. I invite you to read his words, check out his website, and if you feel so inclined, donate to support the production of this remarkable project.

When SB1070 was signed we were at the annual meeting.

The SWC decided to boycott by having the next meeting in New Mexico.

A short time later a portion of the TOX ministry's congregation (who had and remain nested at Church of the Beatitudes Phoenix AZ) decided to move, "as a matter of safety".

We went with them and filmed the trip and the "extravagant welcome" they received in their new locations.

When the first post-signing "big march" happened, the full page ad
and Rev.Felix came and marched with us as we filmed.These pictures are from that March:

Revs. Linda and Geoffery went to Arizona to see for themselves the conditions in
Phoenix and in Sahuarita and got a tour of the water stations near the border.
We were there filming as they witnessed the situation.

It has been almost a year since we started and there is so much more to do.

I am sending you all a link to the website for our film "EXODUS"the documentary.
Within the website you can see what we have been up to for the last 11 months
continuing at the forefront of the issue.

Please look over the website and read ALL of the pages. Learn about the "story behind the story".

The blog pages detail the accomplishments of the documentary team in Arizona, Utah, Texas and Kansas.
The Crew pages tell about who we are. Our editor is certainly "A find" and some of his previous
employers are aware of the project.

Website; www.exodusdocumentary.com

As of this date ALL of our funding (Approx. $30,000.00) has come from 1 donor, we are truly blessed
that this UCC couple is so passionate about Faith and Justice. Their generosity has let us move
along for the last year capturing history in the making.

We could use some assistance with publicity and additional fundraising.
[ If four people from every UCC church in the country would donate $20.00 we could
meet or exceed our total projected costs to film, edit, reproduce, and distribute the film..

Back by Popular Demand...

2011-05-25T15:28:00.000-07:00

I had stopped posting, less by intention than by default: I just got so busy that before I even noticed, a couple weeks, a month, two months had gone by and I hadn't posted anything.

I thought I would try creating a Facebook page instead.

When too many of you started telling me you missed the blog, and that the Facebook page didn't do it for you, I got the hint.

So, the blog is back: periodic musings and postings about life, travels, and covenant partnerships in the Southwest Conference. Just so you know how broad the travel options can be, since last I posted I have been from Yuma (on a sunset drive during which the sky came alive!)...

to Angel Fire, where we installed Richard Safford as their new pastor and teacher...

There are a lot of miles between those two places, much beauty to encounter and many hours to ruminate.

In case you haven't heard me say it for a while: I love what I do, and where I do it.

Proof

2011-02-21T07:37:00.001-08:00

Ok, so here I am in Long Beach, CA. I'm here for the week with my colleagues in Conference Ministry, leaders from the National setting, Conference Attorneys, seminary presidents and a few assorted others.

I attend the Installation of my good friend and brother in ministry, Felix Villanueva. He's being installed as the Conference Minister of the Southern California Nevada Conference.

I dress up. Really dress up. French cuff shirt with some killer cuff links Mimi found for me at the local antique store; nice tie (which I had to retie about 8 times before Kent Siladi said it could actually be worn in public); nice wingtip shoes; the Citizen's watch Mimi bought me a couple years back; a beautiful turquoise ring Mimi got me last Christmas from the Herd Museum; nice gray pin-stripe suit.

All of a sudden, I can't walk ten feet without one of my colleagues pulling out a camera, stopping me, and saying "You own a suit!" I have to take a picture - no one is going to believe this!"

Well, believe it. Here's the proof.

Like they say: He cleans up nicely - at least once a year.

Jarrett Maupin and Noel Anderson

2011-02-15T10:43:00.000-08:00

Noel Anderson

Jarrett Maupin

The Southwest Conference is proud and pleased to announce that two outstanding young candidates for ministry came before us last week.

Jarret Maupin was licensed for ministry at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Phoenix.

Noel Anderson successfully completed his Ordination Exam before the Committee on Church and Ministry, which enthusiastically approved him for an Ecclesiastical Council. That Council will be hosted by the Church of the Good Shepherd in Sahuarita, AZ.

Both of these young men have true passions for and commitments to justice, and already a breadth of experience in both the church and community organizing.

We are truly proud of both of these young candidates for ministry, and wish them the best in what we hope will be long vocational careers in ministry.

10th Anniversary celebration

2011-02-08T10:03:00.000-08:00

I had the distinct pleasure of helping the First Samoan Church celebrate their 10th anniversary.

The night was filled with singing, dancing, laughter, good food, good prayer, great fellowship, and immense joy. The pride these families showed as one by one they came forward to dance, and in the dancing not only reflect their cultural values but express their faith and their pride and their joy at what they have been and meant to each other of this past decade.

It was an honor to celebrate these moments with them. I hope the pictures I share help tell the story and express their pride and joy.

Wall Art and Expression

2011-01-13T09:45:00.000-08:00

I am going to start reporting about the border immersion trip I took last week. It is far too much to contain in one posting.

This time, its about the wall and the art on it.

The art captures so much.

Defiance.

Pride.

Fear.

Pain.

Homage.

Anger.

Hope.

Its all in there.

Let the pictures tell the story.

This final picture is powerful in a different way. At the end of a visit to a part of the wall with a lot of art, we simply felt compelled to pray. No words - just every possible feeling emerging in a prayer for all who are affected by our border policies.

A Tragic Day

2011-01-08T21:03:00.000-08:00

We mourn, we grieve, we suffer the outrage of the senseless violence that erupted on the streets of Tucson this morning. I was near the site of the shootings just yesterday, and was in the Court Building where Justice John Roll, now dead, presided. I am horrified, sickened, and saddened by the news.

I attended, and was privileged to have been invited to speak tonight, at the prayer vigil held at the Capitol Building this evening.

Our collective prayers go out tonight to all the victims of this tragedy, and to their families.

Our prayers go out tonight to our Tucson churches and their members.

Our prayers go out tonight for the citizens of Gabrielle Giffords' district, who elected her to represent them and who, at this moment, still hold on to the hope and belief that she yet will.

Christmas at First, Phoenix

2010-12-25T06:43:00.001-08:00

The Christmas Eve service at First Congregational Phoenix was a delightful way to kick off the Holiday celebrations with the family.

Here is Mimi with her beloved pastor, the Rev. Dr. Steve Wayles:

Here is Molly preparing to sing her solo, "What Child Is This":

Here, a living Nativity is created:

Here the worshippers gather in the courtyard for a candlelit rendition of 'Silent Night':

Here is Santa and his elf, who came to the courtyard to visit the children, young and old:

And here is the magnificent steeple, lit up against the night sky:

Desert Palm and Sun Lakes....

2010-11-22T07:28:00.001-08:00

A week ago, I had the distinct pleasure of participating in the Rev. Michael Ann Verizoglu's Installation as Associate Pastor at Desert Palm United Church of Christ. It was an uplifting experience, to be sure.
From the marvelous preaching of one John Herman....

To the moving demonstration of covenant love and fellowship by the members of First Samoan United Church of Christ (Sinah Asoon is picture here presenting gifts to Desert Palm - she is also a member of the SWC Board of Directors)...

To the nourishing presence of the Holy Spirit at the Communion table...

this was an uforgettable afternoon.

Yesterday, the Rev. Dr. Vernon Meyer celebrated his first Thanksgiving as the pastor at Sun Lakes United Church of Christ - where 7 descendants of the Mayflower voyagers were present! Here are some pictures:

Beth Frigard

2010-11-16T12:18:00.000-08:00

Last week, Beth Frigard presented herself to the Committee on Church and Ministry for her Ordination exam.

We are pleased to announce that she was outstanding, and has been approved for her Eccelesiastical Council and recommended for Ordination pending a call.

Beth is a member at Rincon UCC in Tucson.

She is pictured here with her friend and support person, Mark Clark and with Lee Albertson, chair of CoCAM.

A Day of Profound Joy

2010-11-11T07:42:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, I had the distinct honor to preach and preside at the Installation of the Rev. Lee Milligan. Lee is now the newly Installed Sr. Pastor at Casas Adobes Congregational United Church of Christ in Tucson, AZ.

It was a day of mixed and powerful emotions, coming only three days after the second anniversary of the Rev. Bruce Von Roekel's tragic death by suicide - and the power of the new day dawning within that context was felt by all.

Enjoy the pictures of a church and covenant partner celebrating a day that will long live in their collective memories.

Lee and I in front of the church just moments before the Installation:

Lee making his vows before the Congregation, and I joined by CoCAM representative the Rev. Marie Bacchiocchi:

The Congregation rising as one to make their vows with their newly called and installed pastor:

Clergy Retreat

2010-11-04T06:11:00.000-07:00

The clergy of the Southwest Conference gathered for four days at the Franciscan Renewal Center for their annual retreat.

It was a truly remarkable experience. We hoped to find time for respite and relaxation, and it came. We hoped for comradery, and it came. We waited for the Spirit, and she came.

I will let the pictures speak for themselves - they tell a story.

No Longer Silent

2010-10-16T18:28:00.000-07:00

I have a couple photographs and a transcript, both from an organized protest at the Catholic Basilica in Phoenix. A legislative training event sponsored by the Catholic diocese, and founded on the principles of the Manhattan Declaration, was held this weekend at the Basilica. In the picture are UCC colleagues Vernon Meyer and John Herman.

Here is a transcript of my words at the rally:

I serve as the Conference Minister of the Southwest Conference of the United Church of Christ. We are an Open and Affirming community of faith. meaning we are Open to all who claim their God-given rights and who seek to live a life that celebrates what God has given them; and that we affirm the right of all God’s children to live a life of their choosing - free from oppression, hatred, bigotry, and condemnation.

The Manhattan Declaration is a clear attempt to demonize women who maintain their reproductive freedom and to condemn men and women who are born gay. I stand here an ecumenical partner with its authors and proponents, but in radical opposition to its purpose, meaning, and intent.

I want to be clear about this from the start: women who make reproductive choices are not evil, and being gay does not mean being broken.

What is broken is a Church that fails to live out it’s most foundational teaching: that you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength - and your neighbor as yourself.

What is broken is a Church that insists on rendering obscure Scriptural passages with narrow, arcane, barbaric, and - given what we now know - indefensible meaning.

What is broken is a Church that invites its members to hate, to despise, to ridicule, and to shame members of its own family.

I call upon the leaders of the church, lay and clergy alike, to abandon what has been a centuries old condemnation of our gay brothers and sisters and of women who choose reproductive freedom. I invite all Christians to examine their hearts and to test their conscience. If the inclination of your heart is to love at all costs, in spite of those who have taught you to hate, then simply love.

I believe that openness to and affirmation of our gay brothers and sisters honor our deep commitments to the teachings of Scripture and fulfill Christ’s mandate to love. Which is to say, when we love and when we accept and when we affirm those whom God has called, created, and invited to be gay - we do so not in spite of what God intends, but in full compliance with God’s teachings and intentions.

If we continue to teach that there is something inherently wrong with those whom God has created gay, then the blood of every gay teen-ager who commits suicide is on our hands; the shattered bones and bodies of those beaten and brutalized because of their sexual orientation remain our responsibility: there is no escaping or denying our complicity with these evils.

I wish to speak to every woman who has had to struggle with difficult decisions concerning reproductive choice. At our best, we, the church, share the pain, the ambiguity, and the uncertainty that can come in moments where difficult choices must be made. At our best, we, the church, honor your right to make informed choices. At our best, we, the church, remember that Jesus taught us to judge not lest we be judged. May you never have to live again with the burden of guilt and shame imposed on you by the Church at it’s worst. For our history of condemnation - I beg your forgiveness.

I wish as well to speak to every young man and woman who come to know the joy of being created gay. God made you whole, not broken. There is nothing inherently evil about who you are or the life you choose because of who you are. You are not a failure. It is we, the Church, who have failed you. For our history of condemnation - I beg your forgiveness.

No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey - believe in yourself. Love yourself. Love the God who created you, who loves you just as you are, who gives you a mind and a will and empowers you to use both, and who calls you to a life of meaning, purpose, dignity, and pride. And God help those who have burdened your heart with anything but.

Catching Up

2010-10-05T08:47:00.000-07:00

Its been too long since I last posted, and some very important things have happened.

We have established our Lay Academy with an inaugural weekend that by all accounts was a tremendous success.

We have celebrated the full affiliation of two congregations new to the United Church of Christ: Black Mountain United Church of Christ and First Christian United Church of Christ. They have been declared churches in good standing of the Southwest Conference!

I attended the final sermon of my mentor and spiritual father, the Rev. Dr. Sam Mann (if you attended my Installation, you will remember him as the preacher for the day).

Enjoy the pictures I accrued from a very full, very exciting, very inspiring last two weeks:
The sign at the Las Cruces church: Disciples and UCC - Partners indeed;

Lee Albertson presents the certificate of Affiliation the Pastor Linda Mervin:

The sun sets as Black Mountain shares a meal in their newly dedicated courtyard:

The Children at Black Mountian sing a song they wrote about being 'affiliates;'

SWC Moderator Brendan Mahoney hands the certificate of Affiliation to Pastor Jayne Hubbard at Black Mountain UCC;

My mentor Sam and his wife Bev, draped in a star quilt given to him by the daugther of Leonard Peltier;

Rev. Dr. Sam Mann preaches his final sermon;

Alice Hunt delivering the inaugural lecture at the SWC Lay Academy;

the first class of the SWC lay academy;

Mimi and Jane, students at the SWC Lay Academy;

Big Meetings

2010-09-22T11:00:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, the Exec. Co. met. We were awfully glad, and pretty darn proud, to have Edith Guffy, Associate General Minister of the United Church of Christ, with us. There were many important things discussed (look soon for the next "News from the Conference Minister"), and many important decisions made.
This is an old pic (I had my camera, but forgot to pull it out of my backpack and take a pic) of Moderator Brendan Mahoney and Josh Whistler:

On Monday, the Church Growth and Development Committee met. Likewise, important items discussed. A number of emerging new minstries, churches, and faith communities are being incubated - about which we hope news will be coming very, very soon.
Here is a picture of Church Growth Team member Butch Mellot:

And here are Katrina Glenn and Noel Anderson, also on the team:

Sedona celebrates 50 years

2010-09-14T08:53:00.000-07:00

I traveled up the highway to Sedona for the weekend, where Mimi and I had a wonderful evening with George and Claudia Ault. It is worth noting that as the church celebrates its 50 years, George is celebrating 25 with them. That's right - he has served that church faithfully now for more than half of its existence. And he still looks great, yes?
Nothing makes you look better than posing next to me in a picture, so here are George and I (and yes, Goerge is wearing jeans and sneakers to church):

And here are the reasons why we smile as much as we do:

There was a very moving service of worship, with a choir rendition of "His Eye Is on the Sparrow" that just sent chills up my spine both time I heard it. And following the worship was a picnic lunch on a gorgeous Arizona afternoon. Here are some of the pictures from that lunch:
The Rev. Donna Cavedon sitting with a clown:

Judith, who not only is organizing a whole year's worth of anniversary celebrations at the church, but also was the on-site coordinator for our Conference Annual Meeting, with Susan

And finally, the inimitable Rev. Bob Carlson, whose sister Dosia composed the anniversary hymn for the church, "Majestic Rocks"

A couple of big days....

2010-09-10T07:29:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, CoCAM met. Among the many things we did, we happily received an outstanding new candidate for ministry and began a conversation with a pastor seeking privilege of call.

Here is Kelley Kahlstrom, member at First Congregational in Phoenix, with her pastor the Rev. Jeffrey Dirrim. She was taken In-Care at our meeting.

And here is the Rev. Alan Joplin, member at First Congregational Tempe, who has begun conversation with us concerning Privilege of Call.

A Nice Way to Spend the Holiday

2010-09-06T18:39:00.000-07:00

Wally Ryan Kuroiwa and I, old friends we and Interim Minister in Silver City NM he, decided to spend the day in, um, a pastoral consultation.

These pictures will give you an idea of how intense the consultation was.

Back after a week away...

2010-08-30T15:46:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, I spent a grace filled and spirit enriching weekend with some wonderful people from our Southern Arizona churches. Camp Thunderbird was astoundingly beautiful, and the weather was as good as it gets. Nights around the fire, s'mores, bingo, volleyball, and hiking were all on the agenda. And Sunday morning, we worshipped outdoors and shared communion at the table of our Lord. Here just a few pictures to capture a feel of what that worship was like. The last of these is a picture of the Rev. Dr. Wally Ryan-Kuroiwa, Interim at Valley Community church in Silver City, this year's host church for the annual Family Camp:

Before I got to Camp Thunderbird, I spent the early part of week with my brother and his family hiking through Mount Ranier. Here he is with his youngest, Holly, and his son, Peter at Comet Falls. Pretty spectacular. I will try to post some more pictures of this soon.

Ordination

2010-08-20T06:54:00.000-07:00

Craig Henderson was ordained Wednesday night at his home church, Scottsdale Congregational UCC.

It was a marvelous evening.

Here is Craig getting ready before the service:

And here he is being awarded his Ordination Certificate, having just been declared Ordained to ministry on behalf of the United Church of Christ.

Craig will soon be leaving with his family to Denver - Iowa, that is. He has been called to serve a church in Northeast IA with about 350 members.

We wish him well and send him off with our love.

Two Things of Which I Am Proud....

2010-08-12T14:47:00.001-07:00

Two things happened to me today that make me so proud.

This morning, we met Andria Davis, a young woman from the Beatitudes church and a recent grad from Smith College. She is headed to Chicago Theological Seminary. After examining her, and hearing her pastor, the Rev. Nancy Elsenheimer, and a mentor, Dana Bender, share with us the gifts they see in her, the Committee on Church and Ministry gladly and enthusiastically granted her Privilege of Call.

When I returned to my office later in the afternoon, I found a facebook posting from the pastor of the church Mimi and I attended while we were in St. Louis. He wanted to share with me what the sign in front of the church looked like today. Well, here it is:

It does make one proud.

More wedding pics

2010-08-07T16:01:00.001-07:00

It was two weeks ago today. I can't believe how the time flies - and I promised a few more pics from my son's wedding. Let me get to that, because there will be some new Conference news to post soon enough and this will have been forgotten about.

I am still sort of basking in the glow of what was in incredible family event for the Dorhauer clan. Once again, I will let the pictures tell the story.

This is I with my Godson Chris, whose wedding I did just a month ago in June.

This picture reminds me - about the knot on my head. Many of you have asked me about this. I was carrying two of my nephews on my back on some wet grass (there was a lot of rain) the night before the wedding. Between the wet grass, and one of the nephews sticking his leg between mine, I went down. I fell so that they would not get hurt - and that meant I got hurt. Looks worse than it was. If you're going to go after a Dorhauer, don't hit them in the head: hard as rocks up there. 'Nuff said.

This is my brother Jimbo - more bark in him than bite.

Here we are, grandparents, bride and groom, with the Dorhauer family.

And here is the wedding party - good friends, good people, good memories.

Back from retreat....

2010-07-31T14:46:00.001-07:00

It was an important week I just spent on the California coast. I spent it on retreat with my colleagues in Conference Ministry. It was significant - and much of what we talked about, wrestled with, and imagined could have long term implications for the shape, the mission, and the future of the United Church of Christ.

Iwill write more about that soon, but for now let me just share a few pictures with you from the week.

Well, it wasn't all important work. Kent Siladi and I took a free afternoon to visit one of golfing's great Meccas - Pebble Beach. This is I at the 18th green.

Here is Felix Villanueva - a new friend and the new CM in Southern Cal, Nevada Conf.

Here is my close and dear friend Sheldon Culver, from Illinois South.

Here is my good friend Kent Siladi, Florida Conference.

And here is another very good friend, Mike Denton from the Pacific Northwest.

The happy Father want to brag a little and share his overwhelming Joy with his Southwest Family...

2010-07-24T22:32:00.000-07:00

Here are my three children, a groom and his best man with their sister....

Here are the very proud parents with their son....

And here is a part of the Dorhauer clan as it is currently constituted - and no, this is not everyone. Bride and Groom are in the center, she the newest member of the clan....

The first pictures from the big wedding. I am now a Father in Law - and a pretty proud and happy one at that. I won't return to the office for another week, but this one just can't wait. Here are a few pics - I am sure I will post a few more later in the week.

More from camp...

2010-07-18T11:08:00.000-07:00

Campers will return home today, so I thought I'd show one more set of pictures. The last set showed the faces of camp - these pictures are more about some of the activities at camp.

Sliding into the lake...

Hiking...

Family group time...

Diving off the pier, part I

Diving off the pier, part II

Volleyball tournament...

They had a great time, and we have some great campers.

Thanks to Katrina, Michelle, and Bryce for their leadership.

Thanks to program staff and to the counselors. We are proud of all of you.

The Faces of Camp...

2010-07-15T19:07:00.000-07:00

Rebecca...

Rob...

Natalie...

Taylor...

Demi...

Jessie...

Spencer...

CJ...

Jay...

Janelle...

Janice...

Garrett...

Sydney...

Katrina...

I spent the early part of the week at camp with our Sr. High Youth. Today, just the faces of many at camp.I will post more over the next few days, along with some other postings I have missed over the last week or two. Stay tuned....

Back in the Saddle...

2010-07-04T17:24:00.000-07:00

After a trip back to my hometown to do my Godson's Wedding (see pictures below), and recovering from a spell that had me loopy with a head cold, I am ready to start posting again.

Sorry for the time lapse, but I am ready to get back into the swing of things.

My Godson Chris and his beloved, Bethany, preparing to wed...:

exchanging their vows...:

and beginning their lives together. Part of the family tradition is to create something unique and memorable as the couple exits. Chris was the goalie on his college hockey team. so...:

And here are the six Dorhauer boys with their Mom at the reception (I'm the good-looking one):

Oro Valley

2010-06-16T13:06:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of spending the afternoon with the Council at Oro Valley UCC yesterday. Pictured here with me are John, Jack, Pat, Peggy, and June. Pastor Jim Briney is taking the picture.

We spent the afternoon talking about By-Laws, and ways they might consider rewriting them. Then we went and had a wonderful dinner at a nearby Mexican restaurant. Yumm!!!

This is what I had to face driving home:

Nonetheless, I made it home safely.

Catching up....

2010-06-14T11:33:00.000-07:00

In the last few days, a number of things have happened.

Here is a picture of the Council at the Church of the Painted Hills in Tucson. I met with them to talk about Interim leadership, as their Pastor Lee Milligan has announced his resignation and intention to serve as the called pastor at Casas Adobes UCC in Tucson.

I also met with Brent Smith and Michelle Mellot, who have been nurturing the dream of doing a new church start in Lavine, AZ. They have some very creative thoughts, some real passion, and what we hope are the seeds needed to plant a church in this developing community.

On Saturday, the Board of Directors met. Here are just a couple of pictures from the day we spent together.

Coming soon to a church near you...

2010-06-12T09:33:00.000-07:00

These are pictures of some very proud people. The Rev. Jaci Meade Scot stands next to our own Rev. John Herman in the first picture; while the Rev. Dr. Vernon Meyer stands next to Lisa Roger and The Rev. Dr. Steve Wayles in the second. Vernon and Jaci, ordained respectively in the Catholic and Lutheran churches, have been approved by the Committee on Church and Ministry for Privilege of Call, and now are free to submit themselves to the wider Conference for an Ecclesiastical Council. Stay tuned for details on the time, date, and location of those.

We are happy for both of them, and proud to invite them into the household of our own family. Welcome to both of them!, and may God's Spirit bless each and all as they continue their unfolding journey of faith.

Fun at the Old Ballpark

2010-06-09T06:30:00.001-07:00

Conference Ministry sure is hard work.

Why, just last night I got stuck doing a pastoral consultation till the late hours of the evening.

I have pictures to prove it.Here we both are working hard, Luis and I. We were exhausted by the end of our meeting, which lasted about three hours and nine full innings:

2010-06-07T09:34:00.000-07:00

I was interviewed while preparing for the march that we participated in on Saturday, May 29th. You can view that interview at this link.

But I wasn't the only one. Here are some other links to other interviews from UCC leaders at the March:

Felix Carrion,Executive Director of the UCC's Still-Speaking campaign;

Luis Gonzalez, pastor at TOX ministries, an Hispanic new church start in Phoenix;

Alfonso Escareno, associate pastor at TOX.

Worship with TOX

2010-06-01T09:03:00.001-07:00

I had the joy of worshipping with TOX ministries on the Sunday after our March through the streets of downtown Arizona. There was both a spirit of profound joy, and a real sense of lingering pain in the room. Luis, a true pastor, preached a very powerful sermon to his people about faith in Jesus. It was very moving.

Marching into history....

2010-05-29T16:55:00.001-07:00

What an incredible day - an historic day. We gathered first at Indian Steele Park and prepared ourselves for a 5 mile March protesting SB 1070 through the streets of downtown Phoenix. Estimates ranged on site from 250,000 people to 400,000. I met walkers from all over the country: two UCC pastors from Denver, a Unitarian Minister from Olympia WA, a college student from Philadelphia - and the list goes on and on. It was an honor to be a part of this moment. I will let the pix tell the story...
Here we are approaching the capitol...
This was a mother and child right in front of me as I left the park to start the march...

Here are Brittany and Sidney, two of our young adults taking their place in this historic moment...

Here are Ken Heinzelman, pastor at Shadow Rock, and Rich Doerrer-Peacock, pastor at South Mountain...

Here are musicians who played for us as we walked the five miles to the Capitol...

Here are John Herman, pastor at Desert Garden, and Tina Campbell, chaplain at Scottsdale Hospital....

Here I am marching with Gordon Street, partner of our Moderator, Brendan Mahoney...

Here is Brian Frederick-Gray, Interim pastor at Encanto UCC...

Here are Alsonso Escareno of TOX ministries and Felix Carrion, Director of the UCC Still-Speaking campaign

I have so many more pix and memories, but this gives you a glimpse. What a thrill!!

Tombstone, Dewey, and Sun City

2010-05-25T09:45:00.000-07:00

Sunday, I had the distinct pleasure to travel on a beautiful but very windy day to Southern Arizona and spend the day with our church in Tombstone. We had a great time - we really did. Pictured here are Lane doing the children's sermon, and a couple of tough hombre's I encountered while meandering the streets of Tombstone.

Monday morning, I drove up to Dewey to present their search committee with the first candidate profile. This is always an exciting time in the life of a church, and it brings with it a real sense of hope and promise. Here are members of their Search Committee, and a picture of a new window that was installed and of which they are very proud.

And then I spent the afternoon with the Church of the Palms. Here is their pastor, Len Silvester, and his little pup Chile (ain't he cute).

Safe Church

2010-05-23T06:14:00.000-07:00

A number of lay and clergy leaders from around the Conference gathered on Saturday for a workshop on building Safe Church policies.

Our presenter was Dr. Jaime Romo.

Dr. Romo is a commissioned minister for Health and Wellness Ministries at Pilgrim United Church of Christ in Carlsbad CA. Dr. Romo has written extensively on what makes for Healthy and Safe churches, and his presentation was very helpful. Participants left with a clear sense of what makes for a healthy church, why this work is so critical, and how to take the first important steps towards insuring that safety.

I am grateful to Rev. Kristen Barner for her help in putting this event together.

We hope this is only the first in a series of important steps to prepare our churches to create spaces of safety, wholeness, and healing.

In Cleveland

2010-05-18T16:50:00.000-07:00

I'm hanging out in Cleveland for the better part of the week. After almost two years in Conference Ministry, I am finally sitting at a table serving on my first National Committee.

With me are some of my colleagues in Conference Ministry, including my good friend Kent Siladi (from Florida):

and also our General Minister and President, Geoffrey Black:

I was sent this picture a while ago, and knew I would post it sometime. I haven't done that, and now seems like as good a time as any. This is Don Nordlund, a lay member at our Scottsdale Congregational church, and he's hanging out with the Rev. Tina Campbell - a Chaplain at one of the Scottsdale Hospitals. They are two delightful people. Sue, the third member of the group. spent a day last week answering phones for us in the Conference Office - and for that we are grateful. These are three pretty remarkable people.

Desert Garden

2010-05-17T06:21:00.000-07:00

I spent a beautiful morning here in Sun City West with the good folk at Desert Garden United Church of Christ.

In the fellowship hall following the service, we gathered the clergy couples together for a picture: the Schenks, the Sawitzkis, and the Ellersiecks.

It was an enjoyable morning: great music, lots of laughter, and this guy - enjoying himself before the service (I thought he should have moved the chair up front so I could preach from it).

Justice and Witness Committee

2010-05-13T19:10:00.001-07:00

Wednesday morning, the Justice and Witness Committee met to consider how to follow up the passage of the Immigration Resolution at Annual Meeting, building strategies for meaningful responses to the passage of SB1070.

We heard some very helpful words from Senator Guittierrez, who served as state senator for 16 years, 14 of them as the Senate majority leader. Sitting to his right are Luis Gonzalez, pastor of the TOX ministries, and fellow member Alfonso Escarena. To his left is Kelly Kahlstrom, member at First Congregational. Phoenix.

Here are Yvette and Judith, also members at TOX ministries.

And this is Noel Anderson, intern at Church of the Good Shepherd in Sahuarita AZ and one of our Southwest Conference Members in Discernment.

We heard powerful stories from some of the members of the TOX ministries. We heard very good information from the Senator about the bill and its legal impact. We heard some very creative ideas about educating our church members and empowering them to creatively respond to this bill. This was a very meaningful meeting.

A full, and joy-filled weekend

2010-05-10T09:08:00.000-07:00

On Friday I was able to spend the day with a dear friend, Wally Ryan-Kuroiwa, who is the new Interim minister at Valley Community UCC in Silver City New Mexico. At the end of the day, we met Alan Mong for dinner.

From there, I drove to El Paso and attended the Installation of the Rev. Deborah Clugy-Soto. While there, I got into an argument with her twelve year old daughter Jodi as to whether or not Mozart or Beethoven was the greater composer. By winning a two out of three arm-wrestling match (and yes, the outcome was momentarily in doubt), it was determined I was right: Mozart it is.

And finally, I spent Sunday morning with Rincon UCC as they celebrated the Installation of their new Pastor, the Rev. Steve Van Kuiken.

I am happy to be home, but must say this was a spirited, joyful, and enlivening journey through New Mexico, Texas, and Arizona.

Before I close the post, I can't help but add these two photos. They are just too adorable, and were taken this weekend. Enjoy.

Tucson

2010-05-08T10:35:00.001-07:00

I spent Thursday in Tucson leading some workshops for the Tucson area churches on the centrality of Mission.

I had a great time. Pictured here are Jean-Marie and David Huisjen from Casas Adobes, the Rev. Lee Milligan (and Moderator Elect) of Church of the Painted Hills, and finally June Stavem from Oro Valley Church (as she is a devout Mets fan, I post her picture here with some reluctance. She has already paid off one bet to me - a free lunch- and I hope another is coming when the Cards finish better than the Mets again this year).

The time together was meaningful, and I was grateful for the opportunity.

Bill Ingraham Installation

2010-05-04T19:06:00.001-07:00

These are all pictures from the Rev. Bill Ingraham's Installation as the pastor and teacher at Church of the Good Shepherd in Albuquerque NM.

What a great day it was - from the dinner at Sandiago's at the foot of the Sandia Mountains, to the remarkable music, to the visit from the Samoan church in Phoenix, to the preaching of the erstwhile Executive Minister of the UCC's Local Church Ministry - the Rev. Dr. Jose Malayang. It just makes me proud!

Worship at Annual Meeting

2010-04-30T09:54:00.000-07:00

The worship at Annual Meeting was inspiring and enlivening.

Luis and Daniel from Iglesia Congregacional la Unida did a stirring Brazilian hymn...

The youth, true to the theme "Behold: Something New!" sang John Mayer's "Waiting on the World to Change

As a testimony to our commitment to extravagant welcome, and our living into the promise that No Matter Who You Are of Where You Are on Life's Journey, You Are Welcome Here - Linda Mervine and I concelebrate at the Communion Table. Why, you ask, is that such a test of our welcoming Spirit? She is a die hard Chicago Cub fan, I a die hard St. Louis Cardinal fan. At the table of the Lord we are one!

Friday's worship opened with a remarkable, moving, and truly inspiring performance by the youth Choir from our Tucson Marshallese church. I can't imagine a better way to open our worship experience.

More Reflections on Annual Meeting

2010-04-28T13:31:00.001-07:00

These pictures will highlight some of the many magical moments at this year's Annual Meeting in Sedona.

This picture shows our outgoing and incoming Moderator. I can't say enough about the work that Alissa Marquis, from United in Santa Fe, did throughout this past year. I am eternally grateful for her leadership, and find it hard to say goodbye to her. But pass the torch she must, and to a fine leader himself - one Brendan Mahoney from First Congregational UCC in Phoenix.

Here are Alfonso Escarena and Luis Gonzalez. Luis is the organizing pastor of TOX (The Omega Xeneration) Ministries, a bilingual Hispanic new church start in Phoenix, nested at the Church of the Beatitudes, that announced: a.) they will affiliate with the United Church of Christ in the coming year and b.) they will multiply in the coming year.

And speaking of Affliating, here are members of two churches - Black Mountain United Church of Christ and First Christian/United Church of Christ in Las Cruces NM - in the very moment following the vote to affiliate both of these churches in the United Church of Christ. What an incredibily joy-filled moment this was! Blessings to them both, and to their pastors Jayne Hubbard and Linda Mervine.

Annual Meeting!!!!

2010-04-27T09:15:00.001-07:00

I will post something different every day this week from the Annual Meeting. I really don't know where to begin, except to say that I had such high hopes for this year's meeting - and I believe we exceeded those.

From Alissa's opening the first Plenary on Friday afternoon...

To the closing worship with a remarkable choir and the preaching of General Minister and President the Rev. Dr. Geoffrey Black...

...things could not have gone better.

Enjoy a few pictures (more will come before the week is over):

A Full Day

2010-04-21T07:33:00.001-07:00

Although much of the day, and of the week, quite frankly, is being spent in preparation for Annual Meeting, a couple of things interrupted that steady stream of tasks.

The first was an opportunity to speak at the Capitol urging our Governor to repeal what some are calling the most regressive Immigration Bill to come out of a state in quite some time.

While there, I ran into Randy and Noel, and Noel's mom - whom I met for the first time.

The other was a little less noble - at least in the eyes of many. And that was a baseball game in the early evening. And not just any baseball game. My beloved Cardinals are in town, and my son and I were there five rows back in the left field bleachers doing our best to root them on in a losing effort. Not to worry, my daughter and I will try it again tonight.

See many of you in Sedona in just a couple of days.

Rev. Dr. Geoffrey Black Installed!

2010-04-18T12:11:00.001-07:00

What a glorious day we had in Chagrin Falls - a sleepy little town just outside of Cleveland.

This first picture shows a bit of the pageantry that was on display in a magnificent liturgy that had good preaching, wonderful music, and representative voices from all across the denomination, including our very own...

Josh Whistler, shown here at the reception following the Installation with Janet Leung. Josh is finishing up seminary at Iliff and serves on the Executive Council. Janet is the SWC representative to Wider Church Ministries. Not pictured, but also present, was the Rev. Tyler Connoly - our rep to Local Church Ministries.

And here is yours truly showing my own joy at the honor of sharing this moment with all of our friends from across the United Church of Christ, and especially with our new General Minister and President the Rev. Dr. Geoffrey Black.

A Big Day in Cleveland

2010-04-17T07:44:00.001-07:00

My afternoon in Cleveland began with a meeting on the 9th floor of the Church House on Prospect. While there, a number of Conference Ministers test ran the video equipment that the National Offices are investing in with the hopes that the Conferences might also invest in them. What you see is a 'bridging camera' that is simultaneously linking four locations: two of them in Cleveland, one in Washington D.C., and one in Indianapolis. It is not hard to imagine how this could be used in the Southwest Conference both to improve our ability to connect across a huge geography and to reduce the costs of meeting expenses. Stay tuned for more on this....

Then, as the afternoon wore on into the evening, a party broke out at the Renaissance Hotel in Cleveland with about 500 of Rev. Dr. Geoffrey Black's closest friends. It just so happened that it was his birthday, but the occasion was actually part of the weekend of events surrounding his Installation (look for pictures from that later this weekend).

2010-04-14T06:23:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege of attending the Ecclesiastical Council of a gentleman who is going to make an outstanding pastor: Craig Henderson. Lisa Sampson, who is a member of the Scottsdale Church where the Council was held, presided over the examination.

Craig is about to graduate next month from Lancaster Theological Seminary, and expressed a real passion for Worship and Education in ministry, and is looking forward to his first calling to serve a church in the United Church of Christ. His father was a teacher, and his mother a librarian - he loves to read!

We wish him well in his Search, and in his ministry, and will be proud to Ordain him when his call to a church is completed.

Arizona Ecumenical Council

2010-04-09T07:28:00.000-07:00

I attended the annual banquet of the Arizona Ecumenical Council last night, and had as my guests my dear wife, Mimi, and the Rev. Jeffrey Dirrim and Kelley Kahlstrom from First Congregational UCC, Phoenix.

It was hosted by St. Patrick's in Scottsdale - a beautiful church, as you can see.

Here is the Rev. Jan Flaaten, the Executive Director of the Arizona Ecumenical Council, whose reflections both on how far we have come in ecumenism, and how far we have yet to go were important and insightful.

A Magnificent Easter Sunday!!!

2010-04-05T09:04:00.001-07:00

This Easter was just magnificent!

The Sanctuary was festooned with lilies.

The Choir was in rare form.

Steve's sermon was moving.

The weather was gorgeous.

The pews were packed.

And I got to spend the morning in worship with my wife (pictured here with her good friend, Janie - with whom she sits every Sunday when I can't be there with her).

A Group with a purpose, just not a name

2010-04-01T21:19:00.001-07:00

When I arrived almost two years ago, I began working with all the functioning Committees. Church Growth and Development was one that talked about the need to retool, rebuild, refocus. Which is exactly what they did.

And then about a month ago, a decision was made that the existing committee, many having served for almost five years, would make way for a whole new group.

That new group met for the first time today, and here they are: Brian, Butch, Joann, Theresa, Katrina, Carlos, and Noel.

What they did today was important - a whole new beginning for the Southwest Conference and our efforts at growth, development, and revitalization. Expect to hear something more from them at the Annual Meeting.

They are very clear right now about their mission and purpose - but they don't yet have a name. Stay tuned for more info.

Palm Sunday at West Congregational

2010-03-29T06:31:00.001-07:00

Since I was the narrator, speaking from directly behind the choir, I didn't get the best shot of them. In fact, all we see are their backs. But the Choir at West Congregational did an inspiring job performing their Easter Cantata yesterday. I am always amazed at this small gathering of women and the incredible sound they are able to produce. It was a joy to participate with them in this sacred service.

And here are the children carrying in the Palm Branches as the service began. I was also a little amazed watching this. In the Midwest, the children might come in with small fronds waving - here, entire branches! I was not used to this. It really added an aura of authenticity and drama that I was not accustomed to.

I am grateful to West Church for the invitation to join them, and for helping me get my Holy Week off to a blessed beginning.

Faith United Church of Christ Search Committee...

2010-03-26T12:13:00.000-07:00

On a beautiful day in Central Arizona, I jumped in the car and drove up the Highway into Dewey. Waiting for me there were Carol and Bod, Steve and Barbara, Paul and Masha - in other words, the Search Committee.

They are preparing their profile, and will soon be ready to circulate it in their Search for a Pastor. We wish them well, and ask for the Spirit to guide them in this time of discernment.

First Annual Spring Clergy Convocation

2010-03-25T07:15:00.001-07:00

Tuesday, I met with clergy from across New Mexico and El Paso in Albuquerque, while on Wednesday I met with clergy from across Arizona. This was the first Annual Southwest Conference Clergy Convocation - an event at which our clergy will gather to discuss topics relevant to our time.

In both settings, we reflected on our calls to ministry in a time of prayerful reflection and devotion. We then spent some time talking about the challenges and the joys we experience in our settings for ministry.

The Albuquerue crowd spent the rest of their time talking about changes they see coming in their ministry settings and about strategies for the Southwest Conference becoming more Multi-Cultural.

The Phoenix crowd began with the same prayerful reflections, but after that decided they would spend their time addressing the questions of effective means of Stewardship in times of diminishing resources and about how to maintain the integrity of the gospel's prophetic edge when many of our members are telling us not to mix religion and politics.

These were two very valuable days for me, and I want to thank all of my colleagues in ministry who gave time out of their busy, busy lives to be fully present for the Convocation. I look forward to doing this again next year.

The Vacation winds down....

2010-03-20T16:56:00.000-07:00

The week is winding down. The visitors here are making their way home.

But we had a cookout around the pool last night, replete with a game of cards that went into the wee hours of the morning....

followed the next morning by our annual Dorhauer Fantasy League draft with trophies handed out from the year prior....

Then a trip this afternoon to Peoria to see the D-Backs play the Mariners (note the jerseys we are all wearing)....

And after than time for a AAA game on one of the back fields at the complex.

This has been a good week with brothers, Father, nieces and nephews. I will be ready to get back at it come Monday.

Dumber than a box of rocks....

2010-03-19T16:14:00.001-07:00

A beautiful day in the Valley of the Sun.

"Why not go swimming?", you ask.

Well, because the water is just too darn cold.

That, however, never stopped a Dorhauer. After some golf this morning, we thought why not.

So here we are trying not to show just how darn cold it is and daring someone else to be the first to get out.

Jay and Jimbo...

2010-03-17T17:00:00.000-07:00

More are soon arriving, but today I got to play a round of golf with two of my brothers. Jay, in the middle, is my baby brother and he lives in Yelm WA. Jimbo is the 5th of 7, and he lives in Odessa MO. Its good to be with them - I don't get to see them often. They are making the early part of my vacation pretty much fun. Can't wait for the others to arrive.

While on vacation....

2010-03-15T11:23:00.000-07:00

Taking a much needed week away. My Dad, a number of brothers, and assorted others are gathering at Chez Dorhauer in Phoenix for some golf, baseball, long talks and whatever else moves us. I will post a few things through the week, and maybe you will come to know a little bit about my family.

I start with the latest addition to my in-house baseball museum - a painting of Christy Mathewson that my son finished last night. He knows this is one of my favorite players of all time - pitched in the first two decades of the last century and died young of a lung disease caused by a chemical weapon used in the First World War.

I'd say the week is off to a good start.

From a friend, colleague, and mentor

2010-03-13T04:47:00.000-08:00

I have known Jane Fisler=Hoffman from the very early days of my ministry. She is currently serving as the Interim Conference Minister in Southern California=Nevada and is my mentor in Conference Ministry.

She wrote a blog this week asking her churches to contribute to the One Great Hour of Sharing offering taken in most churches this Sunday. I could try and capture the same sentiments, but why try? She did it so well. Here are her thoughts:

Why Give to OGHS when just gave to disaster relief?
Posted on March 12, 2010 by janefislerhoffman
Dear SCNC Friends,
[PASTORS AND LAY LEADERS, PLEASE SHARE WITH YOUR CONGREGATIONS ABOUT OGHS!]
This coming Sunday is the day designated for gathering the critically important annual One Great Hour of Sharing offering (though some may do so in later weeks as well and that’s fine…). I know that many of you have given generously to Haiti Relief through the UCC and/or Church World Service and GOD BLESS YOU for those gifts of love. They are making and will make life saving differences for the people of Haiti. But it is my fervent prayer that we will not let those gifts prevent us from generously, even more than ever, supporting One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) this year. Here are three reasons why that is so vital:
It was your giving to OGHS in the past that made it possible for the United Church of Christ to send immediate funds to our partners in Haiti and other disaster regions this past year. Some is always set aside for future unanticipated events like this.
OGHS is one source of our basic support for our own Wider Church Ministries and as the UCC for Church World Service. That basic support—unlike designated disaster funds—provides the absolutely essential ‘infrastructure’ of our excellent global organizations on the scene day in and day out to be sure that your ministry reaches those most in need. That basic support assures that your funds are well managed. That basic support gives you confidence asssure that our collective ministries are run in good faith, with best practices and in respectful partnerships. That basic support makes sure that we are in a position to help quickly and meaningfully when disasters strike, when wars or famine create displaced populations, and much more.
And your giving to One Great Hour of Sharing is doing even more than disaster response, every day, all around the world, on your behalf and in the name of our Christ. For instance: your giving builds schools and provides education to children from poor families in Laos. Your giving equips a network of community health educators in Chile and missionary doctors in India, East Timor and Haiti for ministries of healing. Your giving enables women in Egypt, Zimbabwe, Bosnia, and Ecuador to receive micro-credit loans, start small businesses and provide for their families. OGHS is so much more than disaster response!
Your generous responses to the Samoan tsunami, the Philippine floods and now the Haiti earthquake tell me that your generous spirits go deep and that you will not tire of doing good! But I hope this reminder will help you to know that giving to One Great Hour of Sharing makes possible a greater doing of ‘good’ than you might have imagined. So thank you in advance for helping us all grow our giving to One Great Hour of Sharing to do God’s work every day, all around the world.
Bless You, dear friends in Christ.
Jane

Rio Rancho and Sedona

2010-03-09T09:55:00.001-08:00

Sunday morning found me worshipping with St. Paul's United Church of Christ in Rio Rancho.

We see first their Council pictured here, with whom I met before worship:

and then their choir, which did a marvelous job adding to the quality of the worship experience.

From there, I headed across the Conference to Sedona, encountering some snowy coniditions just south of Flagstaff.

I ended up in Sedona Monday afternoon in some pretty dreary weather, but as you can see it is still as beautiful as ever.

While there, I did some planning for the Annual Meeting worship service and later met with members of the Conference Church and Ministry Committee before heading home at the end of the day.

On the Road Again...

2010-03-08T16:45:00.001-08:00

I'll say and show more later, but I'm back home after a long and peaceful drive to Albuquerque and back. The pics shows me eating my dinner in Gallop last night, and stealing wifi in a Sedona Coffee Shop this morning.

Glad for the trip, and glad to be back home. I'll post more tomorrow.

Been too long...

2010-03-05T05:44:00.000-08:00

Sorry, but I have been off-blog for a little too long.

Spent last week in Tampa with my CM colleagues (that's Sheldon Culver and Mike Denton - two of my closest CM friends) - and some terrific things happened. We talked about how to do church in times of diminishment, and some very creative ideas emerged.

I have to say, that although we are experiencing some hard times - I feel new life breaking out all over. I will find a time and way to talk more about that, but last week was certainly a part of that.

This week has been a good one, but a pretty busy one. Along the way I have had meetings with quite a few different people - including some reps from a brand new start-up organization with one of the most creative ways to respond to homelessness and poverty I have ever heard.

Stay tuned - I'm back on line and ready to go!

A Full and Extended Weekend

2010-02-18T10:46:00.000-08:00

We had the pleasure of spending the day with Dick Sparrow, Minister and Team Leader for the United Church of Christ's Parish Life and Leadership Team. Dick is a gem, and absolute delight. He came to do a training for our Committee on Church and the Ministry response teams, some of which are pictured here.

The weekend that followed included visits to Faith in Dewey:

to United Fellowship in Nogales:

to Church of the Good Shepherd in Sahaurita:

to First Congregational in Tucson:

to Casas Adobes search committee in Tucson:

And to Oro Valley in Oro Valley:

I'm glad to be back, but thoroughly enjoyed my trip.

A New Partner

2010-02-12T06:02:00.001-08:00

The Committee on Church and Ministry held one of its eight regularly scheduled meetings yesterday. Among the business we undertook was the granting of Ministerial Partner Standing to the Rev. Deborah Clugy-Soto. Deb has been serving as the newly called pastor at Desert View United Church of Christ in El Paso. With Partner Standing, Deb now has full standing in the United Church of Christ. We are very pleased to welcome her into our fellowship, and hope and trust that in her time at Desert View both she and the church will blossom.

Justice and Witness

2010-02-09T15:28:00.000-08:00

The Justice and Witness Committee met this morning, and did a lot of very good work.
They are finising up the work on their Conference-wide listening visits, and beginning the filter through all of the information that has come to us. Our churches are doing quite a bit, and pulling all of that together is a large task. But, the Committee is getting that done. They are also mapping out both their presentation for delegates at our annual meeting, and the future of Justice ministry in the Southwest Conference.

As you can see, we are making use of techno resources to save money and stay green - two big priorities. So, Ellen and Marcos joined us from El Paso...

And rather than mail them a document, we popped it up on our computer here and let them read it for themselves. Ain't we clever!

CCoV Retreat, Congregacianal Unida

2010-02-08T16:17:00.000-08:00

I spent Friday evening helping lead a retreat for the members of Congregational Church of the Valley. Here are pictures of their Interim Minister, Phil Reller and another treasured colleague, Steve Wayles. Steve is the pastor at First Congregational UCC in Phoenix, and was there to talk about his experience revitalizing the ministry at First Church. It was a very good evening.

The following pictures are from my time in Albuquerque, specifically with Congregacional Unida. It was a delightful morning. I appreciated their laughter when, before my sermon, I told them "Mi espanol es no bueno." I enjoyed the richness of their worship, and the joy with which they shared their meal after our worship. And try as they might, they could not get their Pastor, Daniel Erdman, to eat one of the very hot habaneros that were offered - even after telling him it would help him grow hair. He is pictured here with some of his members, including Christopher Montano, who served on the Search Committee that called me here to the Southwest.

An Absolutely Delightful Evening...

2010-02-01T09:12:00.000-08:00

Just look at the pictures. I really don't have to say a whole lot more.

I spent an immensely joyful afternoon and evening with the families of our Tempe Marshallese Congregational Church. Worship, dancing, singing, food, fellowship, laughter - all combined for a truly meaningful experience.

I was overwhelmed by their gracious hospitality, and entertained throughout by youth choirs, children's choirs, and dancing of all sorts.

I do also want to thank Keith and Ben and Brendan and Gordon who came with me from First Congregational in Phoenix, and who strengthened our commitment to building relationships between our covenant partners.

Enjoy the pictures.

Nogales, and a Dear Friend

2010-01-27T15:55:00.001-08:00

I spent a magnificent weekend in Nogales. Mimi and I drove down on Saturday and had a splendiferous meal in the home of the Pastor, Dave Jernigan, and his wife Joan.

On Sunday morning, we held a rousing service of worship in their Sanctuary....

before heading downstairs for a meeting to talk about mission and discernment. I can tell you this much - you don't mess with this lady!

On Friday evening, I had the distinct pleasure of sharing the evening and a meal with one of my personal heroes: Davida Foy-Crabtree. She is the Conference Minister in Connecticut, and when I entered Conference Ministry I asked her to be my mentor - which she graciously agreed to be. She is pictured here with her husband David, and a mutual friend Randy Hyvonen, Conference Minister in Montana.

A Day to Imagine

2010-01-21T07:43:00.000-08:00

A group of about 30 from around the Conference gathered at the Church of The Beatitudes to 'imagine' - that is to say, to invite the Holy Spirit to move in ways that gave us new ideas about how to be and build church.

Here is the Rev. Dr. Steve Wayles doing his commercial for the United Church of Christ of the future:

Here are the Rev. Brian Frederick-Gray and the soon to be Rev. Jeremy Lopez, looking cool having spent some time in the sun talking about leadership in the church of the future:

Here are Katrina Glenn, our Youth and Outdoor Ministry director, and the Rev. Cameron Trimble, the Executive Director of the Center for Progressive Renewal. When I saw this picture, I wondered: "OK, who just said what?"

And finally, here are the Rev. Randy Mayer from Church of the Good Shepherd in Sahuarita, Pete Norum from First Congregational UCC in Prescott, and Cameron. They really look intent - something important must have been going on at the time.

A Lot of Catching Up to Do...

2010-01-20T06:54:00.000-08:00

I start with pictures from a magnificent weekend in Sahuarita at the Border Fair.
Here is the Santa Cruz River Band, who played a remarkable concenrt Friday evening to kick off the event.

Here is piece of embroidery that was part of four large wall hangings, entirely composed of these pieces of art found in the desert, left by migrants crossing from despair into hope.

Here is part of the delegation that came all the way from United in Santa Fe.

Here is Ted Ramirez, from the Santa Cruz River Band, leading a workshop on music from the border.

Just look at the crowd!

And finally, here is Randy Mayer, whose leadership made this possible. He looks happy and proud, no?

I spent Sunday with two churches. The first was South Mountain UCC, and here are some pics from the day (don't you love Barb in her Bee hat? When you see her, she will be happy to answer your obvious question about that).

The other church was a Samoan Mission church thinking about affiliating with the UCC.

We lift them up in prayer, and as we do so we remember to pray for Black Mountain UCC and First Christian Church of Las Cruces - both of which will vote to affiliate at their Annual Meetings this coming Sunday.

Just catching up...

2010-01-13T14:38:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, I had the distinct pleasure to attend the surprise Birthday party for Kathy Kim. Kathy is a member of the Church of the Beatitudes in Phoenix. She as a member of the Search Committee that called me here to the Southwest Conference. On the very first night in my house, she and the Rev. David Weaver brought us dinner for our first meal here. She has been a blessing to us throughout our time here, and helping her celebrate was a real joy. She is pictured here with a good friend, Barbara Nordlund. Taking their picture together was special to me, since they were both on your Search Committee for the Conference. And the next picture is my bride, Mimi, with the Rev. David Weaver - we all had a great time that night.

This last picture is of Mark Buehle, whose proud parents got to hear him preach at the Church of the Palms in Sun City. I also heard him, and had a very enjoyable visit with him in my office this morning. Mark gave a life as a computer programmer some 25 years ago to follow a call into the Mission Fields. 12 years in Zambia, followed by 13 in Lesotho have afforded him some great experiences and stories. Mark will be itinerating through the Southwest Conference, visiting our churches. If you get a chance to hear him, I strongly encourage you to take that chance.

Housewarming...

2010-01-09T12:37:00.001-08:00

Our Youth and Outdoor Ministry Director, Katrina Glenn, had a housewarming party at her new home last night.

It was quite a crowd that gathered. Here is Katrina with my Assistant, Barbara Decker.

Here is Katrina opening her gifts:

Here is Alex, who introduced himself as the 'coolest guy on earth:'

And Katrina wouldn't think about doing a party without her grandma and grandpa, so here are Donna and Ray Gentry:

A time with clergy...

2010-01-06T19:58:00.000-08:00

First Congregational UCC in Tucson was the host for this afternoons Clergy gathering. Clergy from across the Southern part of Arizona gathered for fellowship, for support, and for a shared meal.

It was heart-warming to participate in the sharing as we spoke of our families, our ministry settings, our challenges, and our celebrations.

It was also a joy to welcome the Rev. Steve Van Kuiken to the gathering for the first time.

A Day on the Road...

2010-01-05T21:40:00.000-08:00

A trip to Tucson gave me a chance to meet the Rev. Steve Van Kuiken for the first time and find out what it is that everyone at Rincon UCC is so excited about. I enjoyed me visit with him very much, and look forward to getting to know him even better. Our visit may have been brief, but it gave me enough of a glimpse to know what all the excitement is about.

From there, I made a trip further down the highway to Nogales and spent the afternoon with the good folk at the United Churches Fellowship United Church of Christ. This was a good day. Tomorrow I look forward to a visit with the clergy of Southern Arizona. Look for pix and story tomorrow.

A Big Day in the Dorhauer Household

2009-12-28T12:15:00.000-08:00

John and his bride to be, Kelley, flew in this morning from Chicago....

They are here to celebrate the Holidays, and to celebrate Molly's 21st Birthday.

I'm getting old.

'Twas the Night Before Christmas

2009-12-25T06:23:00.001-08:00

The Steeple at First Phoenix is lit up against the evening sky, with a small moon hovering above on the Eve of Christmas.

My daughter Molly with her 'boyfriend' Randall. Molly will sing 'Silent Night' accompanied by her brother on guitar, while Randall would enliven the worship on both the piano and organ.

The Rev. Jeffrey Dirrim prepares to preach his Christmas message.

The Rev. Dr. Steve Wayles prepares for the Christmas Eve service by sharing the Joy of Christmas to all.

Mimi and Sam are ready to celebrate the Eve of Christmas.

Its Beginning to Feel a Lot Like...

2009-12-21T08:30:00.000-08:00

On Thursday of last week, the staff of the Soutwest Conference gathered for their Annual Christmas party.

A little levity, a lot of food, and stories of Christmas traditions past and present made for a joyful Christmas celebration.

On Sunday, I had the distinct pleasure of attending the Christmas Cantata performed by West Congregational United Church of Christ's Choir. (Here they are rehearsing)

It is a bit amazing that a group this small in number produces such large sound. They do it with joy, enthusiasm, and great pride. After the Cantata, we all gathered in the Fellowship Hall for lunch and for a showing of their performance this past summer at Carnegie Hall.

Catching Up

2009-12-17T07:56:00.000-08:00

Another busy week, but another very fulfilling week.

I posted pictures of my time on retreat with the Bishop's of New Mexico last week, and this week spent a magnificent day in the foothills west of Tucson with the Bishops of Arizona.

Here is a group photo of us:

And here is the Bishop of the Tucson Diocese making an important point about some important topic (I don't remember specifically what that might have been, but how can it not be: this was the Bishop's retreat, right?). You can see the Quaker rep (like we, they have no real Bishops) lost in thought.

Yesterday, the Church Growth and Development Committee met. As you look at this picture, we should look exhausted ( we worked very, very hard), excited (our work is moving us ever closer to doing some really exciting things - more about that soon), and we should look well fed (we just finished lunch). You will note that I intentionally stood in front of Ray Gentry, trying to cover that offensive shirt he wore (Sun Devils - egad).

That's the news for now. Stay tuned.

A Sunday at Church of the Painted Hills

2009-12-14T13:58:00.001-08:00

By the grace of God, I was able to clear my calendar Sunday morning and spend some time with Lee Milligan and his flock at the Church of the Painted Hills in Tucson, Arizona.

That was important, because on Friday Lee learned of the death of his beloved father. How appropriate that as the service began, Lee reminded his parishioners that we are to 'rejoice in the Lord, always.' It was a testimony to his integrity and his faith that he was able to model that rejoicing for them on a Sunday when there were two Baptisms, and two Confirmands who stood before the church and Confirmed their faith.

We keep Lee in our prayers, as we do Danielle and Evan, the two Confirmands.

Board of Directors

2009-12-12T11:24:00.000-08:00

The Board of Directors has met, in fact is meeting as I write this, to do two very important things.

Of course, one of those things is the business of the Conference. Boring, right? Well, sure - at times. But important nonetheless.

The other task this morning has been the simple and beautiful task of discernment. THE big question - namely, where is the Holy Spirit calling us - has been put on the table. This discussion has been rich, and will continue with a Board retreat in January.

A Final Service

2009-12-10T12:33:00.000-08:00

This past Sunday, I traveled to Silver City to attend the final service of the Rev. Larimore Wicket. Not only was this to be his last service as the Pastor of our Valley Community Church, this was to be his last as an active minster. He has officially retired.
Mimi was able to travel with me, and here she is with her adopted older brother Alan, whom she met at the Annual Meeting way back when in Tucson (you remember that one, it was where I was elected Conference Minister) and they became fast friends.

From the look of things, Larimore is not so much retiring from parish ministry as he is taking on the role of Bishop (I actually placed the Mitre on his head AFTER I made him kiss my ring - which he actually did)....

We wish him and Carlos, his partner, the best in their retirement years as we also thank him on behalf of the Body of Christ for his years of faithful service and ministry.

A Little Catching Up

2009-12-09T07:30:00.001-08:00

Well, since last I posted, I have participated in our Leadership Training workshops in Phoenix, worshipped with our good friends at Valley Community Church in Silver City (I will do a separate posting on those first two events later in the week), attended the New Mexico Conference of Churches Bishop' retreat, and spent the day in Jaurez, Mexico with Raul Blanco and a host of others at Iglessia Sin Fronteras.

Here I am, probably having made some critical insight, with my Judicatory colleagues at the Cannosian Sisters Retreat Center in Albuquerque.

This really was a good and meaningful event, at which we talked very seriously about the need for Ecumenical Partners to engage in far more serious dialogue with each other, including those things for which we have the most divisive points of view. And yes, we talked about issues regarding human sexuality - the topic that in this day and time is the most divisive within the household of Chrisianity - and we did it with love and respect.

Here is the front gate of Raul's church in Jaurez.

Raul is doing a great job in a very tough environment, and in this season of Advent let us remember to lift him up in prayer. Here he is pictured with a dear colleague, the Rev. Daniel Celis from the Congregational Christian church in Mazatlan. The Rev. Celis has provided good counsel and companionship on Raul's journey.

Leadership Training at Duke University

2009-12-02T04:54:00.001-08:00

I have had the pleasure this week of attending a Leadership Training event on the Campus of Duke University. It has been both an enjoyable experience, and an insightful one. I am grateful for the opportunity.

With me are some of my colleagues in Conference Ministry.

Here is my dear old friend, and former colleague on staff in Missouri - Sheldon Culver from the Illinois South Conference:

Here is my crusty old friend, and keynoter and softball ringer at our last Annual Meeting - Kent Siladi from the Florida Conference:

And here is my good friend and newlywed, Mike Denton from the Washington-North Idaho Conference.

Will be traveling back home later today, but not without some great resources and new ideas for being a creative, imaginative leader.

Yuma Arizona

2009-11-29T20:06:00.001-08:00

Had a great time visiting with our friends at Yuma United Church of Christ.

I want to thank Stacey and Marilynn for their warmth and hospitality.

This is a great group of people committed to keeping alive the vision of and hope for a progressive community of faith in the farthest reaches of the Southwest Conference. I am proud of them, and lift them up in prayer. The challenge to be meaningful covenant partners for and with them belongs to us all.

Thanksgiving Alive at Camp Thunderbird

2009-11-28T10:30:00.001-08:00

About 65 Youth from across the Conference (ranging from Flagstaff AZ to El Paso TX) gathered at Camp Thunderbird last night. The Camp is about 30 miles north and east of Silver City NM - where the youth will gather today to perform a variety of mission services throughout the town.

The youth will spend the entire weekend there, and will worship with the members and friends of our church in Silver City.

This is always a highlight of the year for our youth, and we want to send our thanks and appreciation to Katrina Glenn, our Director of Youth and Outdoor Ministries, to the members of our Youth Council, and to all of the adult supervisors who volunteered their time to make this a great event for our youth.

A Happy Dorhauer Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T18:05:00.000-08:00

Here's hoping your Thanksgiving was as special as ours, and that you had as much to be thankful for as we did.

John and Kelley, wish you were here.

2009-11-23T06:10:00.000-08:00

I met with the Scottsdale Congregational UCC yesterday to do an orientation for their search Committee (pictured above, seated around the table). It's always an exciting moment when a Search Committee finally comes together for the first time, anticipating both the many months of hard work that is ahead of them, and the thrill of finally calling the pastor who will come to serve their church.

Only last Sunday I was with them as they celebrated their 50th anniversary.

This Sunday the celebrated the feast of St. Andrew - patron saint of Scotland. And with an Interim pastor named MacFarlane, the celebration took on an added tone of gaiety. Take a look for yourself:

West Region Conference Minister Gathering

2009-11-20T07:24:00.000-08:00

Here is my little cabin in the woods. Three days in heaven, meeting with the Conference Ministers of the West Region.