Search and Call Tools for Congregations Advancing the Spirit’s guidance into God’s future INTRODUCING THE NEW LOCAL CHURCH ? Who is God calling us to become Who is our neighbo r Who are we The new Local Church Profile is not just for congregations in search of a pastor. All congregations are encouraged to engage in its process of discovery every 3-5 years. The UCC Local Church Profile reflects valuable data, MINISTERIAL EXCELLENCE, SUPPORT & AUTHORIZATION
Transcript
0Rachel Hackenberg
Microsoft[Pick the date]
Search and Call Tools for Congregations
Advancing the Spirit’s guidance into God’s future
INTRODUCING THE NEWLOCAL CHURCH
?
Who isGod
calling us to
become
Whois our
neighbor
Whoarewe
The new Local Church Profile is not just for congregations in search of a pastor. All congregations are encouraged to engage in its process of discovery every 3-5 years. The UCC Local Church Profile reflects valuable data, assesses ministry, clarifies change, and helps advance the calling of the congregation. Not just to be completed by a search committee – the more participation, the better!
MINISTERIAL EXCELLENCE, SUPPORT & AUTHORIZATION
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UNITED CHURCH OF CHRISTLOCAL CHURCH PROFILE
BLAIR CONGREGATIONAL UCC
Blair, NE
Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota Tri-State Conference
Association: Living Waters
August 2019
LOCAL CHURCH PROFILE CONTENTS Position Posting Who Is God Calling Us To Become? Who Are We Now? Who Is Our Neighbor? References Consent and Validation
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“God is able to provide you with every blessing, so that
having all sufficiency in all things at all times,
you may abound in every good work.”
(2 Corinthians 9:8)
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INSTRUCTIONS
The new Local Church Profile supports the calling and discernment of United Church of Christ congregations with their current or future pastoral leadership.
For many congregations, the interim time between ministers is an intentional season that is guided in part by the preparation of a Local Church Profile. Using the Profile, the church can discover its data and express its story for the reliable discernment of a search committee and the beginning of a new pastorate. Searching ministers will want to see this document in its entirety.
The interim season is not the only time in a church’s life when it’s valuable to give attention to explore a congregation’s vocation. Three sections of the Local Church Profile – WHO ARE WE NOW, WHO IS OUR NEIGHBOR, and WHO IS GOD CALLING US TO BECOME – are meant to be updated every 3-5 years. Known together as the “Discovery Document,” these three sections can be completed by a visioning group, a governing body, a transition team, or other group – not just the search committee – in order to draw forward the gifts and imaginative possibilities of a congregation. The church’s engagement with the “Discovery Document” might not have the same sequence as the completed Local Church Profile that is read by candidates.
Some questions are easy to answer. Some are not so easy. Prompts are provided to stimulate narrative response if needed; these italicized prompts are merely examples from which to choose or to inspire your own. Efforts to answer the questions will prompt conversations and explorations and story-tellings and many prayers. As the Spirit moves throughout the process, congregations will shape a collective articulation of Christ’s leading (WHO IS GOD CALLING US TO BECOME). This last question to be answered becomes the first section to be read by searching ministers in the Local Church Profile, and it is boldest and most actionable piece for faithful leadership into the future.
Your conference can provide materials referenced in the Local Church Profile, such as the 11-Year Report containing data as reported by your congregation annually to the UCC Data Hub, and MissionInsite reports containing demographic information on your community. More information on types of pastorate in the United Church of Christ can be found in the Call Agreement Workbook. Be sure to use the Call Agreement Workbook’s Scope of Work to describe in this Local Church Profile the position being sought.
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When it is time for ministerial search, the conference can counsel you on posting the Local Church Profile together with your public listing at UCC Ministry Opportunities (http://oppsearch.ucc.org).
The last page of the Local Church Profile contains a statement that parallels the consent statement signed by ministers in the UCC Ministerial Profile. In keeping with the covenantal relationship between a church and those it seeks to call, this statement encourages an open, honest exchange of information. On behalf of the United Church of Christ, and on the basis of the best knowledge available to them, your conference staff will validate your completed Local Church Profile when it is ready to be shared in relationship with prospective new leaders.
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1. POSITION POSTING
a. LISTING INFORMATIONb. SCOPE OF WORKc. COMPENSATION & SUPPORTd. WHO IS GOD CALLING TO MINISTER WITH US?
1a. LISTING INFORMATION
Church name: Blair Congregational UCCStreet address: 353 S. 16th Street, Blair, NE 68008Supplemental web links: www. Blairucc.org
Conference: Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota United Church of Christ Tri-Conference MinistriesAssociation: Living WatersUCC Conference or Association Staff Contact Person:
Blair Congregational UCC is a small congregation located close to a major city but with a small town feel. We are proud of our history and will soon be celebrating our 150th anniversary. We
are compassionate, helpful, friendly and welcoming. We are active in the community. We are generous and giving. We are a family and dedicated to our youth.
We are looking for a part time pastor who recognizes the Gospel as our foundation and will lead our members in Spiritual guidance with the help of the Holy Spirit. We hope our new minister will be able to relate to us, challenge us and inspire us on our spiritual journeys. A leader is needed who recognizes and fosters the gifts of the congregation, allowing our faith to grow. Simply, we want a leader who follows God’s Word and who will work together with us to further the work of the Lord in our church and in our community.
Photographs:
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What we value about living in our area (2 – 3 sentences):
The thing we value most about living in Blair and the surrounding vicinity is the small town living. It is a friendly community in a rural setting yet close enough to Omaha or Lincoln to be involved in the arts, entertainment, shopping and sports activities. Our Library and Technology Center is one of the top rated in Nebraska. Our businesses are a comprehensive mix of industry, agriculture and technology. Blair has a good school system where extra-curricular organizations, activities, and athletic teams are part of the strong co-curricular program. “A promise of quality” is something that continues to be a hallmark of the Blair Community Schools.
Current size of membership: 57
Languages used in ministry (other than English): None
Position Title: Pastor, part-time
Position Duration: Designated-Term
Compensation Level: 1/2 Time
1b. SCOPE OF WORK
Core Competencies:
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(List three core competencies that you imagine could be foundational in your next minister’s relationship with the church. For example, a church seeking a pastoral care minister might hope to call someone who is caring, sensitive and sociable, while a church seeking an executive minister might want an organized, detail-oriented and time-conscious person.)
1) Compassionate and caring while helping people 2) Effective in working with youth and encouraging all ages to relate faith in their
everyday life3) Of a strong faith and able to help individuals to develop their spiritual life
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1c. COMPENSATION AND SUPPORT
Salary Basis: $15,000
Benefits: Salary includes Optional Benefits
What is the expected living situation for your next? We would expect the minister to live close enough to commute as needed for Sunday morning services and as needed for other church events.
Comment on the residential/commuting expectations for your next minister.We would want the pastor to be near enough to be available. We would not want the commute to become a burden.
State any incentives (e.g. school debt reduction or retention bonus after a certain number of years in position): We are open to negotiation regarding incentives depending on the situation and would like to discuss this during the interviews.
Describe peer and professional supports available for ministers in your association/conference:
Washington County Ministerial AssociationIowa, Nebraska, South Dakota Tri-Conference
If applicable, describe how your church will adopt part-time adjustments in the pastoral schedule to support a minister’s bi-vocational employment:
Committees of the church are proactive and capable of conducting the business of the church. We would want the pastoral schedule to include a set office schedule so members of the congregation would know when they can call on the pastor. We would prefer at least one day a week to be available at the church and in the community. The days and hours are negotiable and adjustable. We would want our church leader to encourage and support all activities of the church in the manner he/she feels is appropriate and comfortable. This may include participation, leadership, donations, spiritual guidance or all of the above.
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1d. WHO IS GOD CALLING TO MINISTER WITH US?
Describe the ministry goals you envision your next minister co-collaborating with the congregation to achieve.
The person we are seeking should guide, consult and work with the teachers, educators, Christian Education committee and the congregation to lead them in a faithful and spiritual way. Committees meet regularly and plan for activities. Our members are very active. We would want someone who is willing to work with us as a team and to delegate and ask for help when needed.
Describe how your vision of the minister you are now seeking will assist the congregation in making an impact beyond its walls.
A church’s impact comes from its members and volunteers, as well as from the minister. The minister’s role is to give guidance. A leader is needed who recognizes the gifts and talents of the congregation and fosters those gifts within the community, not allowing our faith to become stagnant but encouraging us to keep growing and challenging us to do more. Simply, we need a leader who follows God’s Word. Everything else stems from following Christ.
Based on what you have learned about who your church is, who your church’s neighbor is, and who God is calling the church to become, describe four areas of excellence from The Marks of Faithful & Effective Authorized Ministry that your next minister will display to further equip the congregation’s ministry in these areas.
1. Exhibiting a spiritual foundation and ongoing spiritual practice2. Caring for all Creation3. Strengthening Inter and Intra Personal Assets4. Engaging sacred stories and traditions
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2. WHO IS GOD CALLING US TO BECOME?
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.” (Matthew 22:37 NRSV)
Who is God calling you to become as a congregation?
We would like to continue to be recognized as a strong contributor to the success of our spiritual community. We want to be a proponent of God’s Word in our local community.
Describe how God is calling you to reach out to address the emerging challenges and opportunities of your community and congregation.
For example, describe two experiments your congregation has initiated or engaged in the past year, what were the results and where do you see your next steps? Has your church had a multi-year strategic plan or vision statement; if so, where do you see that plan/vision taking you?
1) We have learned how to thrive as a congregation without a pastor and look forward to continue growing with the support of a pastor. Members have stepped up to plan
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services and special events. We have visiting teams calling on and offering communion to those who are unable to attend church.
Results: We are still here, learning about ourselves and growing as a congregation
2) We are working to be more involved in community outreach. Two new things we have started in the last year are involvement in Christmas in July (a local community event) and assisting with the recycling center. Habitat for Humanity is of interest for next year (the local unit is only available every other year).
Results: We are getting ourselves seen in the community.
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3. WHO ARE WE NOW?
“You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:39 NRSV)a. CONGREGATIONAL REFLECTIONSb. 11-YEAR REPORTc. CONGREGATIONAL DEMOGRAPHICSd. PARTICIPATION AND STAFFINGe. CHURCH FINANCESf. HISTORICAL INFORMATION
3a. CONGREGATIONAL REFLECTIONS ________
Describe your congregation’s life of faith.
This church acknowledges as its sole head, Jesus Christ, the son of God and the Savior of all. We look to the Word of God in the scriptures and to the presence and power of the Holy Spirit to prosper creative and redemptive work in the world. We covenant one with another to seek and respond to the Word and the will of God. We resolve to walk together in the ways of the Church to witness to the gospel of Jesus Christ in all the world, while worshiping God and striving for truth, justice and peace. We depend on the Holy Spirit to lead and empower us. We pray for the coming of the kingdom of God and we look with faith toward the triumph of righteousness and eternal life.
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Describe several strengths or positive qualities of your congregation.
Many of the members have said it is not just a church to attend. We are a family. Visitors have commented we are friendly and welcoming. We are full of love. We are active in the community. We are compassionate and helpful to not only our own members but to extended families and those in the community. We are prayerful. Our prayer list and prayer chain are active. We demonstrate tolerance toward others. We are generous in giving in both time and money to many organizations, including youth activities, 5 for 5 and missions both locally and globally.
Describe what worship is like when your congregation gathers.
For example, where does worship take place, and what is it based around? What was a recent baptism like? What are some words used to describe good preaching?
Worship takes place in our sanctuary. Scripture and Music are important to us. Both the youth and the adult choir sing regularly. There is special music provided by many members and the youth. Special musical groups are invited 2-4 times a year. We have recently started a “hymn of the month” where an unfamiliar hymn is chosen. We then research the history of the hymn and use it in the service for a month so members become familiar with it. Members and youth are involved regularly in music and scripture
reading. We would value a variety of styles based on scripture, on the Word of God. Sharing personal stories and “God Moments”, using object lessons, being able to relate and being able to challenge and inspire us on our spiritual journeys were all noted as being important to our members.
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Describe the educational program/faith formation vision of your church.
For example, how are young people in leadership? How do people continue to form their faith over a lifetime? Name a topic studied or curriculum used recently; what was the impact of this study on those who attended?
The youth program has recently used the Faithweavers program from Group Publishing as a foundation. Studies may go outside of the material and include community outreach. Students have visited shut-ins, sent cards for all occasions and have helped at the local nursing home. Members of the congregation have visited and given discussions on
life after graduation and camp experiences. Summer activities include Vacation Bible School and youth nights. Youth are involved in many of the services (acting as acolyte, reading scripture, leading responsive readings and occasionally even leading services).
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We have an adult Sunday School class which meets weekly during the school year. Program materials vary. Recent studies have included the Books of the Bible, The Lord’s Prayer, Who is the Holy Spirit and Living with God.
An evening bible study class has recently been started. This study is increasing in numbers and is open to anyone who wants to attend.
Describe how your congregation is organized for ministry and mission.
For example, how are decisions communicated in your church? How are teams or committees organized? Where does your church struggle for vision?
When it comes to decision-making, how many hours are spent in meetings per month?
Our council and trustees meet monthly for 1-2 hours. We have many committees that meet regularly throughout the year (Christian Education – monthly for 2 hours, Diaconate – 2X yearly, Worship and Music – quarterly, Chancel and Memorial – as needed).
Think of a time when action had to be taken quickly, for example when a crisis or disaster occurred. How was that accomplished?
Volunteers usually handle issues as they occur. For example, when the elevator broke down just prior to a funeral, the members of the church handled it quickly and the family and friends did not realize it was an issue. Trustees may be called and meet if necessary. Some issues are handled over the phone.
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Can you provide the next minister with a copy of an organization structure, bylaws and/or annual report to further explain the patterns of the church’s activity and governance?
Yes
3b. 11-YEAR REPORT Available upon request
3c. CONGREGATIONAL DEMOGRAPHICS ____
Describe those who participate in your church.
Is this number an estimate? (check if yes)
Number of active members: 40
Number of active non-members: 15
Total of church participants (sum of the numbers above):
55
Percentage of total participants who have been in the church:
Is this number an estimate? (check if yes)
More than 10 years: 76%
Less than 10, more than 5 years: 9%
Less than 5 years: 15%
Number of total participants by age:
0-11 12-17 18-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65-74 75+ Are these numbers an
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estimate? (check if yes)
6 2 5 5 5 7 6 9 15
Percentage of adults in various household types:
Is this number an estimate? (check if yes)
Single adults under 35: 15%
Households with minors: 21%
Single adults age 35-65: 13%
Joint households with no minors: 28%
Single adults over 65: 23%
Education level of adult participants by percentage:
Is this number an estimate? (check if yes)
High school: 52%
College: 34%
Graduate School: 11%
Specialty Training: 4%%
Other (please specify):
Percentage of adults in various employment types:
Is this number an estimate? (check if yes)
Adults who are employed: 50%
Adults who are retired: 39%
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Adults who are not fully employed: 11%
Describe the range of occupations of working adults in the congregation:Business, clerical, professional, labor/manufacturing, students and retired farmers.
Describe the mix of ethnic heritages in your congregation, and the overall racial make-up. Most UCC congregations tend to describe themselves as “diverse.” Yet, the vast majority of UCC congregations are mono-cultural. What does diversity mean in your context?
Most of our congregation is Caucasian. The town of Blair reports 94.5% of the town is Caucasian. Our congregation follows a similar demographic and resembles the community in racial and ethnic diversity.
Has your congregation recently had a conversation about welcoming diversity, or do you plan to hold one on the near future (perhaps using, for example, the Welcoming Diversity Inventory)? Please note the date. Comment after the exercise:
We have not had a formal conversation. As we have gone through the process of completing the Local Church Profile, we have discussed how we want to be more open and welcoming to all.
3d. PARTICIPATION AND STAFFING
Complete the following chart. Please leave blank any fields that are not applicable to your congregation.
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Ways of Gathering Estimated number of people involved in attendance
Who plans each of the listed gatherings? (list any and all worship planners, such as various lay leaders, pastors, musicians, other staff)
Adult Groups or Classes 6 Lay leaders/volunteers
Baptisms (number last year) 0 Pastor with family members
Children’s Groups or Classes 12Sunday School superintendent and Christian Education Committee
Christmas Eve and Easter Worship 50 Pastor with organist and church moderators
Church-wide Meals 30 Varies depending on who hosts the dinner (women’s fellowship, Christian education committee, etc.)
Choirs and Music Groups 12Music director and Worship and Music Committee
Church-based Bible Study 8 Volunteer member of the congregation
Communion (served how often?) 45Diaconate Committee – served monthly
Community Meals 200 Multiple volunteers
Confirmation (number confirmed last year)
0 Pastor (3-4 students are currently at the age to be confirmed)
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Drama or Dance Program N/A
Funerals (number last year) 1 Pastor/Moderators with family
Worship (time slot: 11:00 am ) 35 Pastor, Moderators, Organist
Worship (time slot: _______) N/A
Young Adult Groups or Classes N/A
Youth Groups or Classes 9-12
Christian Ed Committee
Youth classes have ages 3 through high school seniors
Other: Woman’s Fellowship 9 Multiple Volunteers
List all members or regular participants in your congregation who are ordained, licensed, or commissioned ministers. Indicate those with current United Church of Christ Three-Way Covenants (i.e. serving in a congregation) or Four-Way Covenants (i.e. serving in a ministry beyond a congregation).
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Name Three- or Four-Way Covenant?
(3 or 4 or No)
Ministry Setting Type of Ministry Role
Retired?
(Y or N)
Dave Rush No Nursing Home Choir Director N
If one or more previous pastors or retired ministers currently hold membership in the church, describe their role(s) in the life of the congregation:
Shirley Schmidt: Regularly attends services and functions
List all current staff, including ministers. Exclude the position you are seeking to fill. Indicate which staff person serves as head of staff.
Staff Position Head of Staff?Compensation (full time, part time, volunteer)
Supervised by
Length of Tenure for current person in this position
Secretary No Part time Moderators and Trustee
20+ years
Janitor No Part time Job Coach 5 years
Choir Director No VolunteerWorship and Music Committee
15+ Years
Church School Superintendent
No VolunteerChristian Education Committee
15+ Years
REFLECTIONReflection: After reviewing the congregational demographics and activities above, what does this information reflect about your congregation’s overall ministry?
We have a small membership that spans all ages and is very active and strong.
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3e. CHURCH FINANCES
Current annual income (dollars used during most recent fiscal year)
Source Amount
Annual Offerings and Pledged Giving (2018) $70243
Endowment Proceeds (as permitted within spending policy, such as a cap of typically 4.5%-5% on total return)
$0
Endowment Draw (beyond what is permitted by spending policy, “drawing down the principal”)
$0
Fundraising Events $800
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Gifts Designated for a Specific Purpose $
Grants $0
Rentals of Church Building $0
Rentals of Church Parsonage $0
Support from Related Organizations (e.g. Women’s Group)
$
Transfers from Special Accounts $
Other (specify): Interest $627
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Other (specify): Memorial Fund $860
TOTAL $72530
Current annual expenses (dollars budgeted for most recent fiscal year): $38431 for 2019
Church budget, spending plan, operating statement, or annual treasurer’s report as shared publicly with the congregation, or – if your church does not pass an annual budget – list current budgeted expenses here.
Annual Budget available upon request
Has the church ever failed to pay its financial obligations to a minister of the church? No
Is your church 5-for-5, i.e. does it include each of the following contributions during the church year? (indicate those included during the most recent fiscal year)
_X_ Our Church’s Wider Mission (OCWM – Basic Support) _X_ One Great Hour of Sharing X__ Strengthen the Church _X_ Neighbors in Need _X_ Christmas Fund
In what way is OCWM (Basic Support) gathered? If calculated as a percentage of operating budget, what is that percentage?
We have a budgeting line item for the OCWM, gathered one Sunday a month. In addition, we have an annual Spaghetti Dinner where the profits are added to the monthly offerings.
What is the church’s current indebtedness? $0
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If a building program is projected or underway, describe it, including the projected start/end date of the building project and the total project budget.
None at this time
If the church has had capital campaigns in the last ten years, describe: N/A
If a capital campaign is underway or anticipated, describe: N/A
Does your church have an endowment? No
Other Assets
Reserves (savings): $110219
Does your church have a parsonage? No
Describe all buildings owned by the church:On November 22, 1874, a 28 by 40 foot sanctuary characteristic of the Carpenter-gothic style of architecture, was dedicated on this site. Additions and improvements have occurred throughout the years but the original structure, along with many interior furnishings, has remained in use for more than a century as a center for worship and fellowship. The style and simplicity of this pioneer Congregational Church provides a fitting memorial to Washington County’s religious heritage. In 1979 it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Renovations have included an elevator, addition of a 20 X 20 overflow seating area/fellowship room and office area, updated electrical wiring, an audio system, insulated walls and refinished pews. Updating our front steps has been our most recent project. Currently, the building has three levels with the sanctuary and office space on the upper level, a
handicapped accessible entrance and elevator access on the 2nd level. The lower level includes a kitchen, Sunday school space and reception
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area. A small storage shed has been placed near the church. A large open area and prayer garden is located on the grounds. Street parking is available.
The following is written on the historical marker in front of the church:
Religious institutions have played an important role in the history of Nebraska. During the frontier period, churches fulfilled both
the spiritual and social needs of the early inhabitants. The Congregational Church was one of Nebraska’s pioneer denominations. The Reverend Reuben Gaylord brought
Congregationalism to Washington County in 1856 and the Church operated an early institution of higher learning, the “Nebraska
University” at Fontenelle, 1858-1872.
The Congregational Church of Blair was organized with eight communicants on February 10, 1870, less than a year after John I. Blair auctioned the original town lots a few blocks north of this site. For a time, the Reverend Marshall Tingley, who had come from Sioux City, conducted services in the courthouse or in private homes.
On November 22, 1874, a 28 by 40 foot sanctuary characteristic of the Carpenter-Gothic style of architecture was dedicated on this site. Additions and improvements have occurred throughout the years but the original structure, along with many interior furnishings, has remained in use for more than a century as a center for worship and fellowship. The style and simplicity of this pioneer Congregational Church provides a fitting memorial to Washington County’s religious heritage.
Describe non-owned buildings or space used or rented by the church: N/A
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Worship space, overflow room, fellowship space, restrooms, office areas. An elevator is available.
Reflection: After reviewing the church’s finances and assets described above, what does this information reflect about your congregation’s mission and ministry?
For example, when was a time the church made a major budget change? How is the budgeting process done? What new ministry initiative has your church financed?
We are as strong financially as we are spiritually. We are proud of the mission work we do.
3f. HISTORICAL INFORMATION
Name one to three significant happenings in the history of your church that have shaped the identity of your congregation. Add the most important event in the life of your church in the past 10 years.
1) The church almost closed about 25 years ago. The members prayed and together voted to keep the doors open.
2) Building of a prayer garden. This is a place the church members and the community can use for quiet reflection and prayer. (2014)
3) Retirement of our pastor of 23 years (2018)
Describe a specific change your church has managed in the recent past.LOCAL CHURCH PROFILE – 201
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Our recent Pastor’s retirement after 23 years has been the most challenging. We are learning from it and making improvements as we grow from this experience. We are learning to work together for a common goal, opening up to new opportunities, listening more to what our members need and discovering our own strengths.
Every church has conflict, some minor, some larger. “Where two or three are gathered, there will be disagreement….” Describe your congregation’s values and practices when it comes to conflict.
For example, what is an example of a recent conflict and something your congregation learned from it? Describe an occasion when your church experienced conflict without being able to resolve it well. Does your church have policies, protocols or structures for dealing with conflict?)
We look toward prayer to help us resolve conflicts that may arise. We will do what is right for the congregation and the church. We reach out to members who indicate they are not happy to try to resolve issues. When concerns are brought to the church, we address them as quickly as possible within the committees.
Ministerial History (include all previous ministerial staff for the past 30 years)
Staff member’s name Years of service UCC Standing (Y/N)
Shirley Schmidt 23 Y
Harold Schaibel 4 Y
Deborah Thomsett 7 Y
Comment on what your church has learned about itself and its relationship with persons who provided ministerial leadership:
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We have valued the leadership we have had in the past and want to see many of these same qualities in the person we are seeking. We have learned we want a leader who is loving, kind, accepting and welcoming to all. We want someone who is willing to work with us as a team and to delegate and ask for help. A leader is needed who recognizes the gifts and talents of the congregation and fosters those gifts within the community, not allowing our faith to become stagnant but encouraging us to keep growing and challenging us to do more. Simply, we need a leader who follows God’s Word. Everything else stems from following Christ.
Has any past leader left under pressure or by involuntary termination? No
Has your church been involved in a Situational Support Consultation? No
Has a past pastor been the subject of a Fitness Review while at your church? No
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4. WHO IS OUR NEIGHBOR?
“You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:39 NRSV)a. COMMUNITY VISIONb. MISSION InSite
4a. COMMUNITY VISION
How do the relationships and activities of your congregation extend outward in service and advocacy?
For example, which service activities has your church participated in this past year? Where has the church participated in global connections of care and justice? What is currently transformational in your church’s engagement with neighbors near or far?
Our church participates in many local missions within our community. Just a few are: the Ministerial Association, Food Pantry, Joseph’s Coat (a local thrift store that often provides for those in need), Kamp Kaleo, Socks for the homeless shelter, Fine Art Festival, Church in the park, visits and caroling for shut ins and nursing homes, adopting a family at Christmas, care packages (troops, college students), cards sent from Christian education classes, visiting groups.
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We have had delegates and visitors attend association and state conference and most recently the Tri-State Conference.
Many local churches love to tell the story of what they are doing in the community to transform lives. Some have identified certain aspects of their witness into the wider community using language shared with other UCC congregations. (Find more information as desired at ucc.org.) Check any statements below that apply to your UCC faith community.
__ Accessible to All (A2A) __ Creation Justice __ Economic Justice __ Faithful and Welcoming__ God Is Still Speaking (GISS) __ Border and Immigrant Justice __ Inter-cultural/Multi-racial (I’M)
__ Just Peace __ Global Mission Church__ Open and Affirming (ONA) __ WISE Congregation for Mental Health __ Other UCC designations:__ Designations from other denominations_X_ None
Reflect on what the above statement(s) mean(s) to your community. Is your congregation interested in working toward any of the above statements of witness in the near future?
Our congregation is interested in focusing on giving back to our congregation and local communities. In addition to local missions mentioned above, we give scholarships to our graduating youth, fundraise for participation in camp and youth activities and adopt local families in times of need. We are open to using language shared by other UCC congregations but do not feel we need to be limited in that language to be open and working in our local and global communities. We prayerfully decide where to focus our ministry.
Describe your congregation’s participation in ecumenical and interfaith activities (with other denominations and religious groups, local and regional).
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Church in the park is open to the entire community.
We donate to and attend Christmas in July, a community event put on by local churches
Donations are made routinely to various global charities (Blankets and Tools fund, Ghana, Christmas shoe boxes)
Members have participated in mission trips: Haiti, Washington, DC and New York
If your congregation has a mission statement, how does that mission statement compare to the actual time spent engaging in different activities? Think of the range of activities from time spent gathering, to governance, to time spent going out.
N/A
Reflect on the scope of work assigned to your pastor(s). How is their community ministry and their ministry in and on behalf of the wider church accounted for in the congregation’s expectations on their time?
We will work with the new pastor to establish guidelines.
4b. MISSION InSite
Comment on your congregation’s MissionInsite report with data for your neighborhood(s) or area. What trends and opportunities are shown?
Our church is very similar to the town we live in. We are a rural community but close to a larger metropolitan area. Our congregation comes from all walks of life and are of varying ages, educational backgrounds and employment.
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How do your congregation’s internal demographics compare or contrast to a) the neighborhoods adjacent to your church, and b) other neighborhoods with which your church connects?
The demographics of our congregation are very similar to the local area.
What do you hear when you talk to community leaders and ask them what your church is known for?
We are known for our annual spaghetti dinner (“the best spaghetti ever eaten”). Comments we have heard from others are we are friendly and welcoming. We are active in the community, compassionate, helpful, generous and have an active prayer chain.
What do new people in the church say when asked what got them involved?
New members have said in other, larger churches they have felt lost in the crowd. They have said they liked the connection of our small church and being a part of the church family.
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5. REFERENCES
REFERENCE 1Donna Lee Peterson(402) 426-3483Friend of the church who attends regularly
REFERENCE 2Rev. Kim McSheehyPastor, Immanuel Pathways Southwest Iowa(712) [email protected]
REFERENCE 3Katy Flynn(402) [email protected] of the church, Substitute Organist
PROMPTS FOR REFERENCES
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Describe some areas of strength in this church’s ministry. Describe some areas for improvement in this church’s ministry.Describe a significant experience you have had of this church’s ministry.Anything else you wish to share.
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6. CLOSING THOUGHTS
a. CLOSING PRAYERb. STATEMENT OF CONSENTc. CONFERENCE/ASSOCIATION VALIDATION
6a. CLOSING PRAYER ______
Include here any prayer or dream for the minister you imagine journeying toward you… a poem, for example, or a Scripture passage or a piece of music that is meaningful to your Search Committee:
Exodus 32:26Then Moses stood in the gate of the camp, and said, “Who is on the Lord’s side? Let him come unto me. And all the sons of Levi gathered themselves together unto him.
WHO IS ON THE LORD’S SIDEFrances Ridley Havergal
Who is on the Lord’s side? Who will serve the King?Who will be His helpers, other lives to bring?Who will leave the world’s side? Who will face the foe?Who is on the Lord’s side? Who for Him will go?By Thy call of mercy,
By Thy grace divine,We are on the Lord’s side-Savior, we are Thine!
Jesus, Thou hast bought us,not with gold or gem,But with Thine own life blood,
for Thy diadem;With Thy blessing filling each who comes to Thee,Thou hast made us willing,Thou hast made us free.By Thy grand redemption, by Thy grace divine,We are on the Lord’s side-
Fierce may be the conflict, strong may be the foe,But the King’s own army
none can overthrow;"Round His standard ranging, victory is secure,For His truth unchanging makes the triumph sure.Joyfully enlisting,
by Thy grace divine,We are on the Lord’s side-Savior, we are Thine!
6b. STATEMENT OF CONSENT
The covenantal relationship between a church and those called by that church to serve as pastors and teachers and in other ministerial positions is strengthened when vital information is openly shared by covenantal partners. To that end, we attest that, to the best of our abilities, we have provided information in this profile that accurately represents our church. We have not knowingly withheld any information that would be helpful to candidates.
As the committee charged with the responsibility for identifying and recommending suitable new minister for our church, we have been authorized to share the information herein with potential candidates. We understand that a candidate may wish to secure further knowledge, information, and opinions about our church. We encourage a candidate to do so, recognizing that an open exchange of relevant information builds the foundation for continuing and healthy relationships between calling bodies and persons seeking a ministry position.
1. Which individuals and groups in the church contributed to the contents of this Local Church Profile? (for example, church council or consistory, transition team, etc.)
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Search Committee (Catherine McBride, Jamie Johnson, Ward Combs, Paul Emmerich, Virginia Rhoades, Brian Christensen)
Church council including trustees All members and friends of the congregation had the opportunity to contribute through
open forum and small group meetings
Signed: Catherine McBride/Co-Moderator/8.17.2019Name / Title / Date:
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6c. VALIDATION BY CONFERENCE/ASSOCIATION _____
The congregation is currently in good standing with the association / conference named. Staff Comment:
To the best of my knowledge, ministerial history information is complete.Staff Comment:
To the best of my knowledge, available church financial information is presented thoroughly. Staff Comment:
My signature below attests to the above three items.
Signature: Name / Title:Email:Phone:Date:
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This document is created through support to Our Church’s Wider Mission (OCWM) and is only possible through the covenantal relationships of all settings of the United Church of Christ.
“Jesus answered them, ‘Have faith in God!’” – Mark 11:22
