For a long time now, I have felt that the Associations of the United Church of Christ could best serve their local churches by attempting three very important tasks: 1. Provide direct assistance for the Search and Call process; 2. Form a matrix of networks throughout local churches and ministries to enhance strengths and overcome some challenges that the local churches face; and 3. Provide a public witness to basic United Church of Christ theology and practice.
The Associations have long been engaged in the first of these tasks. The Search and Call process comprises the majority of communication and experience with Associations in local UCC congregations and ministries. The second task, that of forming networks between and among local churches, is the aim of the current strategic planning within the Southwest Ohio Northern Kentucky Association (SONKA). Instead of the Association being expert in every category of ministry and mission, is it not more faithful to UCC covenant to assist ministries and churches to assist one another? If congregation A struggles with finances, for instance, could we not link them with congregation C, which has a very successful stewardship theology? The local setting can benefit greatly from sharing strengths and challenges with other portions of the local setting, building relationship and formulating covenant.
It is the third task that has been traditionally missing, in my judgment. Would it not be beneficial to local UCC congregations and ministries to provide public statements that both distinguish the United Church of Christ from other denominations and encourage understanding of alternative forms of Christian witness? Not argumentative, but informative, information about the core stances of the United Church of Christ may invite some interest and generate some excitement. It would certainly give rise to some passionate discussion.
I am pleased to say that, thanks to the excellent leadership of Interim Minister, Kathryn Anadein, SONKA is currently formulating a blog team of five or so writers who would have the challenge of sharing the basic theology, stances and applications of both to the general public, to our local ministries and congregations. While the blog posts might be intended to communicate information, I imagine that they can also be quite provocative for local settings of the UCC.
I am happy to lend my writings to the effort. Stay tuned for more information.
See You Sunday!
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