All are welcome to join us for this monthly gathering.
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The Christian Ministries Scholarship Fund provides financial assistance for those preparing for Christian Ministries, both in seminary and undergraduate education. This fund supports those persons living in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Mid-America (CCMA) Region who are preparing for the Christian ministries. Women’s Ministry/CWF and the receipts from local congregations establish this fund that provides gifts as grants in aid to the recipients.
Find online application form here> Find online reference form here>
Learn more about our Disciples Women’s Ministries here>
The Bridgeton Christian Church Fund is an endowment created by the former Bridgeton Christian Church when it closed in 1995. Purpose of the fund, as stipulated by the congregation, is three-fold:
To meet monetary shortfalls due to unexpected strife in a church;
To help a church underwrite "revitalization/renewal" of its congregation;
To help meet property/structural damage caused by an act of God or other circumstances and not caused by neglect.
Guidelines stipulate that the Fund shall be used to meet a church's temporary financial need, as long as the need was not created by "overextension of a budget or repetitive under-funding of a budget by the congregation".
Any Mid-America congregation may apply for a 2025 grant. The committee will review applications to determine whether they meet the fund's requirements.
Find online application form here> Applications due by midnight May 31.
Thanks to our SEGA Permanent Fund/Orchard Crest Scholarship Fund, we are able to help families get their kids to summer camp, even if their financial situation makes full payment of the fees impossible. Our scholarship program was set up after the sale of the Orchard Crest Camp facility so that more youth would be able to enjoy the unique and transformative experience that is summer camp!
Families need to complete only one online application form, even if they have several children attending different programs. Applications are due by midnight on June 1.
This week at Camp Jo-Ota is for campers completing preK through 2nd grade. They must attend with an adult. $235 for adult & child pair. $65 for additional person.
Learn more about this and our other summer programs, and register here>
Scholarships are available. Applications are due June 1. Apply here>
The Rural Ministry Network, Disciples Women, and Disciples Men invite you to a time of deep renewal, lightly structured for 24 hours at the Marianist Retreat & Conference Center in Eureka. There will be ample time for: being in nature, worship time, sharing one on one time, and learning in community. Sponsored by RMN, DW, and DM.
Register online by midnight on May 14.
Lodging will be private rooms and includes 4 meals.
Find more information, including schedule, on the flyer here>
Cost: $150 per person.
Couples or room sharing cost is $136 per person
Hear and discuss ideas and resources to best serve the kin-dom of God through the growing number of older adults in our congregations. Learn about the proposed Silver Chalice designation in the Resolution coming before the General Assembly, and what implementation will entail.
Rev. Dr. Paul Koch is Regional Minister of the Mid-America Region and author of the Silver Chalice Resolution. He introduced and guided the Region to a unanimous vote to become the first Silver Chalice Region.
Rev. Sandy Messick is Regional Minister of the Florida Region, and shepherded the Region to embrace the Silver Chalice Ministry as the second Region. She has been encouraging Florida congregations to undertake the Silver Chalice Ministry process.
This NBA webinar is free but registration is required. Learn more and register here>
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Our Rural Ministry Network invites you to this special gathering to hear speakers on current topics, connect with your fellow Disciples from other congregations, and share in communion.
Topics scheduled for this session are:
Church issues - attendance, membership, building
First Christian Church in El Dorado Springs will host us and provide lunch. A freewill offering will be received for the lunch. Each church is encouraged to bring a dessert to share.
Please RSVP by emailing Sara Compton by Monday, June 16.
Presented by our Rural Ministry Network.
Details about this event will be posted as they become available.
This week at Camp Jo-Ota is for campers completing 9th through 12th grade.
$385 if registered by June 15. $410 after June 15.
Learn more about this and our other summer programs, and register here>
Scholarships are available. Applications are due June 1. Apply here>
The General Assembly of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) will gather in person from July 12th to 15th, 2025, in Memphis, TN. This year’s General Assembly theme: “BEYOND” is based on Ephesians 3:20-21.
Glory to God, who is able to do far beyond all that we could ask or imagine by his power at work within us; glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus for all generations, forever and always. Amen. (CEB)
This week at Camp Jo-Ota is for campers completing 2nd through 5th grades.
Elementary Camp is for 2nd-3rd graders, and they stay until the 16th. $185 if registered by June 15. $210 after June 15.
Junior Camp is for 4th-5th, and they stay until the 18th. $345 if registered by June 15. $370 after June 15.
Learn more about this and our other summer programs, and register here>
Scholarships are available. Applications are due June 1. Apply here>
This week of camp at Camp Galilee includes all age groups.
Third through twelfth graders meet the whole week, while Try-It campers (K-2nd grade) arrive on Thursday the 24th and stay until Friday. These first timers must attend with an adult.
Learn more about the Faith Adventures program and register here>
Learn more about our other summer programs and register here>
Scholarships are available. Applications are due June 1. Apply here>
This week at Camp Jo-Ota is for campers completing 6th or 7th grade.
$385 if registered by June 15. $410 after June 15.
Learn more about this and our other summer programs, and register here>
Scholarships are available. Applications are due June 1. Apply here>
Make new friendships, share experiences, and attend to spiritual connection during the retreat.
Youth will hear from a keynote speaker, share in worship and workshops
As a result of a generous grant, this retreat is offered at NO COST to participants.
Registration due by July 14.
Learn more & register here>
The retreat is presented by
The Walter Scott Camp & Learning Center in partnership with The Christian Church in Indiana, The Christian Church in Michigan, The Christian Church in the Upper Midwest, and the Christian Church of Mid-America.
Contact Rev. Jimmy Spear, Lead Minister at First Christian Church in Edwardsville, at jimmy@fccedwardsville.org for more information.
Save the date for Awaken 2025, Illuman’s annual gathering designed for all male-identified persons seeking inspiration, contemplation, and deep connection. This unique event invites participants to engage in transformative inner work, weaving together ritual, teaching, nature exploration, poetry, drumming, song, small group councils, and time for rest and connection.
Learn more on the FB event page here or contact Rev. Dr. Paul Koch here>
Join the NBA Mental Health and Wellness team and guests on Mental Health Sunday for an airing of our inaugural Mental Health Sunday service! After the service, Rev. Joselyn Spence, NBA’s Director of Mental Health and Wellness, will host a talkback with special guests, where you can ask questions and share your thoughts! You are encouraged to watch the service by scheduling a ‘watch party’ with your family, friends, Bible study group, or congregation!
There is no cost to attend but registration is required. Learn more & register here>
THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO STORM DAMAGE INCURRED AT THE CHURCH ON FRIDAY, MAY 16. MORE INFORMATION WILL BE POSTED AS IT BECOMES AVAILABLE.
The congregation of Union Avenue Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is delighted to celebrate its new senior minister, Rev. La’Vetta J. Ross, during an official installation celebration service at 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 18 in its historic sanctuary, located at 733 Union Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108.
Ross is only the second woman and the first African American to serve as the senior minister of Union Avenue Christian Church (UACC) in the church’s 120-year history.
Full press release. To learn more, visit union-avenue.org or contact UACC at 314-361-8844.
The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Mid-America and Liberty Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) cordially invite your presence and prayers for the commissioning to Christian Ministry of Joyce E. Burns on May 18, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. at Liberty Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Highway E, Thompson, Missouri 65285.
Fellow clergy in attendance are invited to robe and wear a red stole.
A meal will be served at the church following the ceremony.
We are thrilled to welcome Baptizing America authors Brian Kaylor and Beau Underwood to share in a discussion of their book. Everyone is invited to join us! Mid-America clergy will receive ARPRJM renewal training credit for participating in person. The subsidized fee of $25 covers admission, lunch, and a copy of the book. If you can't make it in person, there's an option to audit the session via Zoom at no charge - just register to get the link. Registration is open and must be completed by May 1.
Download, forward, print, and share the event flyer>
Register today!
Save the date and join Pension Fund President and CEO, Rev. Dr. Todd Adams, for the 2025 Member Conference Calls on May 7. Following his presentation, participating members will have the opportunity to engage in a live Q&A session. You can dial in up to 15 minutes before the start time. Choose from two convenient session times to participate:
6:00 pm Central
Dial (800) 717-1738
Conference ID: 57969
10:00 am Central
Dial (800) 717-1738
Conference ID: 79156
Save the date and join Pension Fund President and CEO, Rev. Dr. Todd Adams, for the 2025 Member Conference Calls on May 7. Following his presentation, participating members will have the opportunity to engage in a live Q&A session. You can dial in up to 15 minutes before the start time. Choose from two convenient session times to participate:
6:00 pm Central
Dial (800) 717-1738
Conference ID: 57969
10:00 am Central
Dial (800) 717-1738
Conference ID: 79156
At our first gathering in January, it was unanimously decided to continue this much needed ministry, to nurture, support, and encourage one another through the challenges of women in ministry settings. This time we will be hosted by Russ and Theresa Hamilton at First Christian Church in Cameron.
We are again extending an invitation to all women in ministry the region has provided emails for. If you know of someone who could benefit from this opportunity, please share this information. Or if you know women who would be great spiritual partners for women in ministry like pastor’s spouses, wise matriarchs, and women you have leaned on and have provided support please share this information.
You are welcome and encouraged to join women across the region for our second gathering in Cameron. There will be three gatherings each year for this much-needed ministry.
What is Women Empowering Women?
Read what some participants had to say about the initial gathering.
View event flyer>
Please RSVP by April 25, 2025, for the May gathering by emailing jennifer.ccma@sbcglobal.net.
Boonville First Christian Church and Phillips Theological Seminary would like to invite you to join them for Phillips Theological Seminary Weekend. Dr. Warren Carter, Professor of New Testament, will be presenting.
On Friday, there’s a Clergy Conversation Circle on “The Massacre of the Innocents: Studies in the Cultural Afterlife of a Gospel Scene.” Learn more and register here>
On Saturday, the Community Event is “Seven Events that Shape the New Testament.”
Please note that the time frame for this presentation is 9-11:30 and then 1-3. Register here>
Includes canoe trip on the Current River, a mission trip, bonfire, exploring, and a steak dinner.
Details including schedule, pricing, and registration can be found on this flyer.. ——->
Please contact Rev. Dr. Paul Koch for more information.
Boonville First Christian Church and Phillips Theological Seminary would like to invite you to join them for Phillips Theological Seminary Weekend. Dr. Warren Carter, Professor of New Testament, will be presenting.
On Friday, there’s a Clergy Conversation Circle on “The Massacre of the Innocents: Studies in the Cultural Afterlife of a Gospel Scene.” Register here>
On Saturday, the Community Event is “Seven Events that Shape the New Testament.” Learn more and register here>
The leaders and trainers of Worship and Wonder Bible storytelling will share ways this multi-sensory approach brings life experiences into dialogue with all ages and with God.
A free webinar presented by Older Adult Ministries
Rev. Kaye Edwards, served as Director of Family and Children's Ministry for Disciples Home Missions for 17 years. There, she created the Children Worship & Wonder Program and continues to volunteer with Worship and Wonder.
Rev. Elaine Austin, has served as a storyteller and trainer for the denomination over 23 years. She is President of the nonprofit, Worship & Wonder, enriching the faith formation of all ages, by encouraging sharing our stories to strengthen our communities.
This Insurance Board webinar will be led by Director of Loss Control Chad Cunningham.
Join us to equip your ministry for effective response and recovery during any emergency. Enhance your knowledge and boost confidence in planning efforts to safeguard your community.
The webinar is free, but prior registration is required. Learn more & register today>
All are welcome to join us for this monthly gathering.
we will be sharing from the Just Women a study by Rev. Dr. Beth Rupe who is also the editor!
Loving God, Self, and Others. Matthew 22:34-40
Her questions for discussion:
How do you demonstrate that you love God with your heart, all you are being, and your mind?
How do you love yourself by caring for your spiritual, emotional, cognitive, and physical needs?
As Christians, we talk about the importance of serving and of sacrificial love. How does loving the neighbor as self help us establish good boundaries in caring for and serving others?
How are you, the DW ministries of your region, fulfilling these commandments in ways that lead through the looking-glass into the king/kin - dom of God.
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"Transformation: Journey Towards Unity and Hope"
Scripture text: Romans 12:2.
All are welcome to this special day of worship, workshops, and keynote speaker Jacqua Brown-Williams. Registration due by April 14.
Adults - $40, Youth - $10. Registration includes continental breakfast and lunch.
Full schedule and registration form here>
The Easter Offering provides vital support for the general ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Your generous gift helps equip college students for leadership, strengthens global mission partnerships, sustains health and social service ministries, supports the formation of new congregations, cares for pastors and chaplains, and so much more.
The Easter Offering provides vital support for the general ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Your generous gift helps equip college students for leadership, strengthens global mission partnerships, sustains health and social service ministries, supports the formation of new congregations, cares for pastors and chaplains, and so much more.
Everyone can be an activist with the guidance of Omkari Williams, a former political consultant turned activism coach who helps people identify their “activist archetype” and map a personal action plan for engaging in small, change-making activities with potentially big impacts.
Join Minister of New Church Strategies Rev. Dr. Jose Martinez for New Church Ministry’s latest IMPACT webinar episode where he will interview Omkari about her work and book Micro Activism: How You Can Make a Difference in the World without a Bullhorn.
Great Protector
Mo'n-Sho'n A-ki-Da Tonka (Great Protector of the Land) was a Little Osage warrior, orator, and statesman who lived near present-day Arrow Rock. In 1805, he was part of a delegation that visited President Thomas Jefferson in Washington, D.C. and was given the name Big Soldier by US government officials. When he met Major George C. Sibley, who built the first house in Arrow Rock to establish trade with the Osage people, Big Soldier shared his observations on settlers in the area. In Great Protector, we meet these men and learn of their differing perspectives about life and the future.
This performance by the Voices of Arrow Rock will be the focus of this refresher training session. Coordinator Mike Kateman will provide some pre-reading materials and will host a follow-up Zoom session on Monday, April 7 at noon to discuss the performance and the issues it raises. (Alternative time can be arranged.)
$25. Registration due by Wednesday, April 2 at midnight. Register here>
We ask that all Mid-America congregations report their applicable data into the ALEX database system by midnight tonight. This enables us to keep complete and accurate records for all Disciples throughout the Region and the Church.
The Anti-Racism/Pro-Reconciliation Justice Ministry seeks grant proposals for projects to further the work of dismantling racism. Successful projects and funding requests will target the systemic problems of race in our communities and churches. In accordance with Resolution 0731 (2007 General Assembly), entitled Recommendations Concerning Reconciliation Mission, grants under this program are to intended to combat racism and its root, systemic causes and be used for anti-poverty works only if such works contribute directly to the work of racial justice and reconciliation.
Union Avenue Christian Church in St. Louis will be hosting a Justice Conversation on Immigration on Sunday, March 30th and all are most welcome. They plan to begin at 12:30 with lunch and the program will start at 1:00.
We’ll have hearty soups (meat, vegetarian and vegan) with, wholesome bread and dessert. We have a dream team panel for our Justice Conversation on Challenges Facing St Louis Immigrants and How We Can Engage. Nola Proctor will moderate and Marie Kenyon, Director of the Peace and Justice Office in the Catholic Archdiocese of St. Louis, and Jessica Mayo, co-founder, co-director and attorney at the MICA Project on Cherokee Street will share their more than 50 years combined experience. The conversation will focus on identifying what we can do as individuals. a congregation and congregations working together.
If you can let the church know ahead of time that you're coming, that's great, but if not - come anyway!
Mental Health Sunday, observed every 3rd Sunday during Mental Health Awareness Month, falls on May 18th this year, and is a wonderful way to eradicate mental health stigma in your congregation. Join us for this interactive workshop to design your congregation or organizations mental health Sunday. Participants will hear from a panel of clergy who have led Mental Health Sunday or other events for Mental Health Awareness Month. Participants will also be able develop a plan in preparation for including mental health resources and services during the month of May and beyond!
There is no fee for this National Benevolent Association webinar, but registration is required.
Learn more and register>
All Mid-America clergy are welcome to join a few of your Associate Regional Ministers on ZOOM each Tuesday at 11am (March 4 – April 14) as we pray the Lenten lectionary scriptures together.
Come and connect with colleagues! Come and connect with the fresh winds of God’s Spirit!
All are welcome to join us for this monthly gathering.
Our next Bible study is found on pages 37 through 40 our author is: Awit Marcelino. Titled: Friendship Like Braided Sweet Grass, Scripture from Ecclesiastes 4:1-12.
Her questions to ponder:
Whether you've read this scripture before or it's brand new, what image, verse, feeling, or questions stands out to you in this passage today?
What is a quality or characteristic that you admire in one of your closest friends? Why is that quality or characteristic meaningful or important to you?
Can you share about a time when you were not a good friend to someone? What did you learn from that experience?
How have your friends, sisters, or community shown up for you when you needed them the most? o teach us to simplify, prioritize, and lean on him to do the heavy lifting?
Join Zoom Meeting
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Meeting ID: 820 2350 3046 Passcode: 615850
Join us online to share about The Voyage of Life.
We’ll gather at 7am for early risers and again at 11am for those who like to sleep a bit later!
There will be a total of four sessions - February 8, February 22, March 8, and March 22.
All are welcome for as many or as few as you can attend.
Zoom link Meeting ID: 972 4596 8342
Please contact Rev. Dr. Paul Koch for more information.
All Mid-America clergy are welcome to join a few of your Associate Regional Ministers on ZOOM each Tuesday at 11am (March 4 – April 14) as we pray the Lenten lectionary scriptures together.
Come and connect with colleagues! Come and connect with the fresh winds of God’s Spirit!
All Mid-America clergy are welcome to join a few of your Associate Regional Ministers on ZOOM each Tuesday at 11am (March 4 – April 14) as we pray the Lenten lectionary scriptures together.
Come and connect with colleagues! Come and connect with the fresh winds of God’s Spirit!
Our Commission will be meeting together with those working towards ordination or commissioning.
Those attending the gathering should consult their scheduled time and required documentation. Please contact the Springfield office with any questions.
Join us online to share about The Voyage of Life.
We’ll gather at 7am for early risers and again at 11am for those who like to sleep a bit later!
There will be a total of four sessions - February 8, February 22, March 8, and March 22.
All are welcome for as many or as few as you can attend.
Zoom link Meeting ID: 972 4596 8342
Please contact Rev. Dr. Paul Koch for more information.
This seven-week Lenten learning experience will run each week from March 6th to April 17th each Thursday from 11:00 am to 12:15 pm.
It is designed by therapists, pastors, and chaplains. Together, we will explore emotional and spiritual responses, and share stories in the face of current ecological and social challenges. Responses like grief and sorrow, anxiety and fear, guilt and shame, anger and despair are normal responses in unprecedented times. This course is designed to offer mutual support, healing, insight, and compassion, not a therapy experience. Registration Fee $20. Scholarships available, Email Shardinnieri@gmail.com
The movement of these seven-weeks together will include the following:
Introductions/Orientation
Sorrow/Grief
Anger
Fear/anxiety
Shame/Guilt
Despair/Hopelessness
Integration and wholeness
Brought to us by our Disciples Green Chalice Ministries. Learn more and register now>
