Rev. Bill Rose-Heim Installed as Greater Kansas City Regional Minister & President

Over 300 people gathered at New Vision Christian Church in Kansas City on January 24 in a celebration of consecration as the Rev. Bill Rose-Heim was installed as Regional Minister of the Greater Kansas City Region. Rev. Rose-Heim served as Area Minister of the former Northwest Area. CCMA was represented by Regional Minister Team members Rev. Dr. Larry Colvin, who brought greetings, and Rev. Dr. G. Mike Weinman who brought a warning to the Region, 'do not think they could sit back now that they had a new Regional Minister.  Bill will not accept that response.'

Rev. Dr. Sharon Watkins, General Minister and President, in her address reminded that we are a denomination that takes seriously the "ministry of all believers." We understand ministry is never done in a vacuum. In accepting his call, Rev. Rose-Heim, reiterated this as he sought the hands and prayers from all. 

 

 

 

 

Story and photos courtesy of
Rev. Dr. Larry Colvin and Rev. Dr. G. Mike Weinman.

 

Webster Groves Christian Church Presents A Jazz & Choral Christmas

On Saturday, December 19th Webster Groves Christian Church presented A Jazz & Choral Christmas, telling the story of Christmas through sights and sounds. 

Scripture was read by renowned local actor Joneal Joplin. A number of selections were performed by the choir, which included the WGCC Chancel Choir and additional singers who lent their talents for the evening. Congregation members took on the roles of Mary, Joseph, and wise ones, and the youth were angels, shepherds, and animals. Jazz quartet Two Times True played several jazz arrangements of traditional carols and accompanied the choir in the Hallelujah Chorus from Quincy Jones' Soulful Celebration.

Though the congregation has held such a service in years past, the scheduling of the event on Saturday afternoon instead of Sunday morning this year was done to enable more people from the community to participate and attend.

 

 

The Christmas story was told. Joy was proclaimed. Much cheer and many cookies were shared. It was a wonderful evening for all!

Find more photos and a recording of the service on the
WGCC facebook page.

25th Anniversary of Wyatt Park CC Christmas Tableau

As they have done annually for the past 25 years, Wyatt Park Christian Church in St. Joseph presented its drive-thru living nativity on the evenings of December 11th and 12th. 

For more than two hours each night nearly 100 people in costume, and dozens more behind the production, presented 10 different scenes.

Over 400 cars went through the tableau. Each was given a CD that included an audio recording of the biblical passage associated with each scene, and then 4 songs of the season recorded by the Wyatt Park music teams.

CCMA Regional Assembly in Columbia

The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of Mid-America held its Assembly at Broadway Christian Church in Columbia on Saturday, October 24th. Nearly 200 people gathered for a day of worship, fellowship, celebrating, learning, and planning.

The opening worship was a wonderful celebration of music brought to life by a host of talented musicians. The service included a prayer litany, lessons of transformation, and a number of selections featuring organ, violin, trumpet, oboe, and Broadway CC's Chancel Choir and Chancel Bells.

 

There was then a recap of our transformation process as it has taken place over the last three years. Moderator Guy Adams outlined the timeline of activity from the beginning of the team's research through the current resolutions to be voted on today. Rev. Dr. Paul Koch was introduced as the Transitional Regional Minister Team Member in the Northeast. He will begin his duties in this capacity on January 1, 2016.

Individual Areas met and, in the case of the Southeast Gateway Area, finalized their commitment to the merger as one Region. 

After a delicious lunch brought to us by Broadway CC's Mission and Outreach Ministry, the business session was called to order. All presented resolutions were passed by those assembled. After some discussion, the proposed budget for 2016 was also passed. These documents can be found in the program book here. The minutes from the business session will also be posted as soon as they are available.

The closing worship featured an inspiring message of transformation and hope from Table of Grace pastor Rev. Michelle Scott-Huffman. The service also included communion, an offering designated for Disciples Mission Fund, and a passing of the mantle by departing Regional Minister Team Members Kris Tenny-Brittian and Bill Rose-Heim to their successors, Paul Koch and Cheryl Sanders/Sandra Mull respectively. 

Thank you to Bill Rose-Heim for supplying most
of the photos.

Thank you to the event planning team led by Vickie Sowers, the local arrangements team led by Dixie Fisher, the worship planning groups led by Tim Carson and Brian Kirk, and all of the volunteers who made the day a success.

We celebrate the realization of our new structure and look forward to all the exciting ways that we will continue to minister and serve together in Mid-America. We also look forward to meeting again October 7-9, 2016 in Springfield and resuming the regular biennial Assembly schedule.

Centennial Christian Church's Struttin' Jazz Brunch

Centennial Christian Church hosted a Struttin’ Jazz Brunch on September 19, 2015, with entertainment provided by The Coleman - Hughes Project featuring Adrianne Felton - King.   

 

 

The Capital Campaign Committee, which includes Terell Butler (right) and Troy Squires (left) as Co - chairs, Conchita Hughes (center) – Fundraising Chair, and Tamarah Clark – Finance Chair, raised over 90% of the $10,000 goal set with donations still being received.  A silent auction was held with items as far away as California, and as luxurious as spa treatments in Hot Springs, Arkansas.  Several local Disciples of Christ, sister church congregants, contributed their talents towards our affair, from blown glass creations, handmade stationery, to designing of the showcase stopping peacock for the appetizer table. The brunch was a congregational success, which infused and invigorated our membership with excitement flowing into Sunday Morning Worship!!!  Members are already looking forward to the event next year.

As the Capital Campaign Committee event and campaign pledges were so successful, preparations have already begun for 2016 and beyond, as a new way for Centennial Christian Church to raise funds for capital improvements. Our new fund is designed to provide the financial resources to make the necessary building repairs and modifications to offer hospitality to our neighbors, guests and members.   At Centennial, our mission continues to be “We are the people of God who love one another and share that love by building ministries that Reach, Teach and Win Souls for Christ!”.

 
Photos courtesy of Michelle L. Artist

Disciples Summit on Racial Justice

Nearly 100 participants gathered Saturday, September 19th, at the Compton Heights Christian Church in St. Louis from the congregations across the Mid-America Region, Disciples Reconciliation Ministry, Metropolitan Congregations United the National Benevolent Association and Loretto Volunteers for a day of worship, exploration, confession, pilgrimage and hope.

Among the topics discussed were systemic racism and institutionalized white privilege.  Among the more moving moments were those in which those who daily live under the cloud of danger for no other reason than the color of their skin shared their experiences.  

Here were some memorable take-aways from the day:

  • Racism = Prejudice plus Power
  • "Racialized" - a condition in which some people live under constant if subtle threat of oppression or attack because of race 
  • "I've been asleep for 45 years."
  • "Only whites can fix white racism."
  • "Whites are fickle allies."
  • Flesh tone Crayola crayons were what color?  Whose flesh is the standard?
  • "I was born on third base and thought I had hit a triple." (Jeff Moore on white privilege)*
  • Color blind racism  ("I have black friends, so, I'm not racist or privileged.")
  • "Our analysis is tainted." (We cannot come at issues of racism from any other vantage point than our own and that reference point is not neutral.)
  • Serial charity is no substitute for justice.

There were documents provided with information about resources for addressing racism. Among them was a protocol for regions, congregations and general units to respond when violent incidents occur nearby that calls for assistance at several levels to victims, their families, and others involved.  More proactive strategies were also discussed including meeting with local police, elected officials and judges to assure that all are adequately trained and aware of Disciples concern that all lives matter and our willingness to work for justice for all.

Story and photographs courtesy of Regional Minister Team member Rev. Bill Rose-Heim.

* find his list of resources on racism and white privilege here

Find more information and resources from the event at NBA here.

 

Rev. Rhonda Aldridge Ordained

At a very proud and joyful Centennial Christian Church, Rev. Rhonda Aldridge was ordained into Christian ministry on August 30th. 

This comes after her earning of a Master of Divinity degree from Eden Theological Seminary and working through the ordination process with the Commission on the Order of Ministry.

Among the program participants were Regional Minister Team member Rev. Dr. Penny Ross-Corona, host pastor Rev. Derrick Perkins, and Rev. Dr. Dietra Wise Baker, pastor of Liberation Christian Church, who delivered an inspired and inspiring sermon entitled "Mount Up!" based on Isaiah 40:21-31.

Many other local ministerial colleagues were present, as were Rhonda's extended family from out of town. She was very grateful for the support of everyone!


Northwest Area Assembly

Sixty-two people signed in for the August 1st event which began with a business meeting.  The two most important resolutions recommended by the Northwest Area Executive Committee robust discussion.  There was unanimous approval to authorize the Northwest Area Executive Committee to make the determination about the 160 acre Center for Lifelong Learning (without the need to call another Board meeting).  That decision would be worked out in collaboration with the Mid-America Executive Committee.

 

The recommendation to have the Northwest Area fully merge with the Mid-America Region, effectively dissolving its governance structures while maintaining currently effective programs, was also approved unanimously.

Following the business session, some participants enjoyed a workshop on congregational best practices for transformation entitled "Hope Is a Partnership."  Leading the workshop was Cristie Sharpsteen, a facilitator for the Disciples HOPE Partnership, elder at North Kansas City First Christian Church, and realtor.  In her energetic and interactive presentation, Ms. Sharpsteen encouraged congregations to discern what they are already good and prayerfully work to raise it to such a level that it attracts the attention of those seeking to serve with Christ in that way.

The Mission Fair featured table top displays around the large fellowship hall at Wyatt Park Christian Church in St. Joseph, which hosted the event.  Congregations displayed photos and items from the missions and ministries that bring out the best in their congregations and representatives shared stories with those visiting the displays.

 

 

Worship followed.  New ministers, seminarians, and Youth Leadership Team officers were recognized and given desktop oil lamps that burned during the service to remind all of the light of Christ we each bring to the work of the Church.  At the close of worship all those who helped to support Summer Church Camp were invited to gather on the stage for a group photo which included former NW Area Minister Morris Page and his wife, former NW Area Office Administrator Dee Page.

Participants then enjoyed a sumptuous meal prepared by the Summer Church Camp cook and her staff.  A drawing was held for participants and Summer Church Camp volunteers for Chalice Press gift certificates.

Thanks to Regional Minister Team member Bill Rose-Heim for this summary and photos.

Rev. William Brown Ordained

Saturday, June 20, 2015

The Reverend William Brown signs the Ministerial Code of Ethics during his ordination ceremony at First Christian Church in Troy, Missouri. Congregations that nurtured William and supported his call participated in the joyful celebration which closed with the Chris Rice song Go Light Your World. We pray God's blessings on William and his family as he begins a new ministry at the Community Christian Church in Camdenton.

He had been serving Villa Ridge Christian Church as he completed his program through Lexington Theological Seminary.

Congratulations and blessings to William as he continues his ministry!

Trenton First Christian Makes Connections In the Garden

 

"The Garden" of Trenton, Missouri is an effort primarily sponsored by the First Christian Church, Disciples of Christ, to unite the community in growing something good. Nearly an acre of land on the church's property has been designated for use as a community garden, growing healthy food and healthy relationships for anyone willing to come participate.

 

Rather than renting out individual plots, the model is for everyone to work together on one large-scale garden; this not only allows for more visionary management of the property, but also allows for people who may not have the knowledge or time to plant their own garden to still take part in the process. Anyone who comes to volunteer in the garden is allowed to take home a share of produce available.

 

Behind the hopes to educate, provide healthy food, and celebrate nature's process of food production is a hope to connect the Church with people of the community as they work alongside each other; some out of need for food, some out of need for belonging, and some out of a desire to share God's love. And what better way for all of us to connect with our Creator than to go back to the place where it all began - in the garden.

Thanks to Ashlen Busick for this story! To see future posts about this and other activities at FCC Trenton click here.

Rev. Tom Russell Celebrates 50 Years of Ministry

This past Saturday, May 30th was the 50 year anniversary of Rev. Thomas Owen Russell and on Sunday First Presbyterian Church in St. Joseph held a celebration in his honor.

Tom was ordained at the Shepherdsville Christian Church in Shepherdsville, Kentucky. He is a graduate of Lexington Theological Seminary and served fifteen years with Department of Church in Society, Division of Homeland Ministries. He also pastored churches in Kahoka, MO, Terre Haute, IN, and St. Joseph, MO and served as Northwest Area volunteer Area Pastor for Strategic Planning and Conflict Mediation. 

photos and information courtesy of Holly Rudolf

2015 Faith-Based Organizations Disaster Workshops

The Governor’s Faith-Based and Community Service Partnership for Disaster Recovery invites faith organization leaders, emergency management directors, local public health agency (LPHA) representatives and Community Organizations Active in Disasters (COAD) members to attend one of the nine regional workshops in May and June. 

Because faith-based organizations face unique challenges in helping their communities prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters, The Partnership, along with the Public Health Emergency Preparedness program has put together a program that will provide insightful and practical advice to help with that mission. We hope you can participate.

Please see the flier below for more information. 

Registration is recommended and may be completed using the following link: http://training.dps.mo.gov/sematraining.nsf/TrainingSchedule.

These events are provided free of cost to participants. All events are from 1-5 p.m. The dates and locations of each regional workshop are listed on the flier below.  

Click on image above for larger, printable version.

Convocation Held at Rickman Center

The 2015 African American Convocation was held at Rickman Center on Saturday, April 11th. Thirty-two people, including three youth attended the event. 

Several speakers presented on a variety of topics. Regional Moderator Guy Adams brought a State of the Region address. Janice Legg brought greetings from the Executive Committee and relayed information about the Pro-Reconciliation/Anti-Racism initiative.  Jay Stevenson led a stewardship workshop entitled 'The Art of Giving.' Regional Ministry Team member Rev. Dr. Kris Tenny-Brittian brought greetings from the Northwest Area. Rev. Jacqua Brown Williams shared about her mission trip to the holy land. Rev. Cedric Harris spoke about 'The Trouble with You.' 

The keynote speaker was Rev. Dr. Reginald W. Calhoun, Sr., Executive for Evangelism and Congregational Transformation and Director, Office of Black Ministries. He brought with him special guests Rev. Sheila P. Spencer, Director of Christian Education and Faith Formation and Assistant to the President of Disciples Home Missions, and Rev. Chesla T. Nickelson, DWM Program Director and Merger Staff. He invited the group to let them know what they could be doing to help them.

The event's planning committee was Rev. M. Faye Vaughn, Coordinator, Dolly Leo Salmon, Inez McPike, Sue Brown, Jeff Miller, Joe Miller, Jane Miller, LeWanda Jackson, JoAnn Allison, and Paula Holliday. They would like to thank Master of Ceremony Lillie Gardner, pianist Talya Mayfield, and crafts/youth leader LeWanda Jackson. 

The day closed with worship including an offering to be donated to DHM.

The tentative date for next year's event is April 16th. 

The next National Convocation will be July 21-24, 2016 in Kansas City.

FCC in Marceline Celebrates 100 Years in Their Sanctuary

On Sunday, April 26th First Christian Church in Marceline celebrated the 100 year anniversary of their sanctuary.

 

 

One set of stained glass windows in the church tells the parable of the Sower.

 

 

 

 

 

Tom Hauser, chair of the Board, points to the memorial prayer garden dedicated the same day. Also captured in this photo is former pastor Rev. Ed McLachlan.

 

 

 

 

Current pastor Rick Roberts greets some of the over 100 members and guests who attended the celebration.

 

First Responders Honored at Lathrop FCC

Lathrop  First Christian Church sponsored an Appreciation Dinner for all local area First Responders on March 11, 2015.  Invitations went out to the Firemen of Lathrop, Turney, and Holt,  county and city law enforcement officers , EMTs, local coroner,  county and city commissioners and members of the community.  This was in an effort to show our appreciation for those that chose  to be caretakers of our community. Associate Pastor, Michael Falgout  was the Master of Ceremonies.  Carmen Bennett, local music director of Lathrop Schools presented some of her students who beautifully sang the National Anthem. Each guest was given an honorary poem with a flag lapel pin.  A wonderful dinner furnished by the church and accompanied by carried in dishes from the community was enjoyed by approximately 70 attendees.  Due  to a large fire that day, several firefighters were doing exactly what we expect from them, and were  unable to attend. 

Ordination of Rev. Minnie Smith

Rev. Dr. Kris Tenny-Brittian, Mid-America Ministry team, Rev. Lucretia Facen, preaching, and Rev. Minnie Smith.

Rev. Dr. Kris Tenny-Brittian, Mid-America Ministry team, Rev. Lucretia Facen, preaching, and Rev. Minnie Smith.

Congratulations to Rev. Minnie Smith as she was ordained on Saturday, March 7th at Willow Street Christian Church in Hannibal.

She has served as the pastor there since 2008, when she retired from the Hannibal School District where she served as a school counselor. This was after her 2000 retirement from the Social Security Administration and 2002 BS degree from Culver-Stockton College.

Rev. Smith is the first to be ordained via the 'apprentice track' of the Commission on the Order of Ministry. 

 

Two Mid-America Ordinations in February

Sarah Klaasen was ordained at Rock Bridge Christian Church on Saturday, February 14th. She is pictured here wearing the stole that was a gift from the congregation. The banner to her right is a gift that she made for the congregation to thank them for nurturing and supporting her. 

 

 

Pictured are St. Charles Christian Church pastor Chris Franklin, NAPAD Executive Pastor Jinsuk Chun, World Mission Christian Church pastor Young Noh, and SEGA Area Minister Penny Ross-Corona.

Pictured are St. Charles Christian Church pastor Chris Franklin, NAPAD Executive Pastor Jinsuk Chun, World Mission Christian Church pastor Young Noh, and SEGA Area Minister Penny Ross-Corona.

Church is at its best when it works faithfully with partners in ministry. Such testimony was witnessed by all who attended the ordination of Young Gee Noh on Sunday, February 22nd. Conducted in both Korean and English, the inspiring service was underscored by the generous hospitality of World Mission Christian Church as they welcomed representatives from SEGA, NAPAD, and St. Charles Christian Church.

If you would like to learn more about the ordination process, and what it means to come under care of the Christian Church of Mid-America, please click here.