Christmas at First, Phoenix

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....

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

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.