Grace and Gratitude, January 2021

In order to prepare for the new year, I spend time examining my life and ministry from the year that just ended. This sacred time of preparation has become one of my formation practices. One of the essential ways in which I experience the presence of God in my life is paying attention to the details and circumstances of the one life I have been given to live. Last year was a difficult year. COVID-19. Racism. Massive loss of life. Teleworking. Missing in-person gatherings. Then came the deaths of significant people I loved deeply. The prayerful examination of 2020 allowed me the opportunity to slow down, touch and feel the sorrow, heartbreak, anxiety and uncertainty of last year. The break over Christmas was time to pay attention to the emotions I rushed or ignored so that I could deal with the next problem or issue in front of me. Read more →

Theology and Worship Issue 54.4 of Call to Worship explores new insights and practices from worshiping during the COVID pandemic. Available in February. Subscribe now →

Vital Congregations Applications are now being accepted for the third wave of the VC Initiative. Through internal spiritual practices and relational connections, the initiative takes presbyteries and their congregations deeper into following Jesus Christ, making disciples and being vital communities. And new to the third wave — with the blessing of their presbyteries, individual churches interested in participating may apply independently. The deadline to apply is March 5.  Download application packet →

New Worshiping Communities Have you listened lately to the 1001 “New Way” podcast? Host Sara Hayden assembled a beautiful set of interviews for the Advent season, including a very special conversation with her 7-year-old son, Sam. A new season of podcasts will launch this month — and watch for our Lenten episodes beginning in mid-February, where our guests will explore what it’s like to be in the wilderness and how these experiences shape our faith. Listen here → Christian Formation Registration is now open for the 2021 APCE (Association of Presbyterian Church Educators) virtual event! This event is for educators, pastors, elders and volunteers. Translation services for this event will be offered in Korean and Spanish if you register by January 22. Scholarships are still available! Find out more here →

Financial Aid for Service Samuel Robinson Award winner Lydia Miller memorizes the Shorter Westminster Confession. Sections in the confession on prayer and glorifying God reminded the Alma College senior of how she was welcomed and embraced by a family and community in Ghana, where she stayed for a week while studying abroad. Read more → New cohorts beneficial Coaches of Christian Formation cohort groups are rejuvenated through connections made with ministry partners. Read story →

Staying alive during the pandemic After an unusual mortgage is “paid off,” an Ohio camp board chair says he’s learned that “you can always find a way forward.” Read more →

Matthew 25 – A bold vision and invitation We recognize Christ’s urgent call to be a church of action, where God’s love, justice and mercy shine forth and are contagious. Over 680 churches and mid councils have accepted the Matthew 25 invitation to help our denomination become a more relevant presence in the world by building congregational vitality, dismantling structural racism and eradicating systemic poverty. You are invited →

Coronavirus/COVID-19 — Latest church resources for congregations and members

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