On August 2, the Family Ministry team at the United Church of Santa Fe will celebrate the dedication of a newly revitalized Nurture Center designed to better serve infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children. Through the efforts of Dana Bender and dedicated volunteers Tracy and Ed Church, the refreshed two-room space now includes areas for rest, play, tactile activities, and creative exploration, creating a welcoming environment where children can experience care, belonging, and God's love. The congregation will mark the occasion with a special blessing and celebration as they look toward nurturing the next generation of faith.
Phase 1 of the Memorial Garden at First Congregational Prescott is now complete, with the foundation, gravel surface, fencing, and initial plantings in place. As the garden continues to grow, the project team is exploring additional features to create a peaceful space for reflection and remembrance. Opportunities to sponsor elements such as seating, a fountain, and memorial plaques will soon be available.
Two young cats were found at Shepherd of the Hills UCC on Sunday, July 12. They are very friendly and socialized cats, and were most likely dumped by someone that could no longer care for them. A member has been caring for them in his home while trying to find them a permanent one. They are affectionate, well-behaved, and comfortable around people. They are litterbox trained and would love to stay together if possible. If you or someone you know is interested in adopting these sweet cats, please reach out. Feel free to share this message with anyone who may be able to provide them with a loving home they deserve. Please contact Craig Splain for more information: 480-423-5208 | one_ideal@yahoo.com
On selected Wednesdays, this summer, Church of the Red Rocks takes ice cream fellowship on the road! They travel to the far corners of the Verde Valley to enjoy ice cream and fellowship together at different locations. Way to chill.
View a recap of First Congregational Albuquerque's recent “Introduction to Whiteness” forum led by Rev. Dr. Ryan Tate. The Racial Justice Team’s next forum on Sunday, August 16th will address “Decentering Whiteness in Worship.”
At 91, Beatitudes Campus Resident Lives Her Joyful, Authentic Life: Many coming-out conversations take years of buildup and minutes to unravel. Clair Shields had hers at 89, and it was over quickly in a hug. ... Now 91 with pink stripes in her hair, Clair avoids the word “change” and is quick to push back on the idea that the moment required bravery. “When you’re transgender, you’re that from birth. I didn’t change, and it wasn’t courage. I just became completely aware of who I really am,” she said. Read more
The Racial Justice Process Task Force at Church of the Good Shepherd was created by their Church Council to help the church community on their journey to seek racial justice. The task force will hold a potluck after the church service on August 30 to kick things off.
You're invited to join the EcoPreacher Cohort: a year-long companionship of preachers who are ready to sharpen (or discover!) a climate-conscious, justice-centered voice in their ministry. The Cohort is a year-long program of robust community support and education for preachers who want to integrate or sharpen their climate-conscious, justice-centered preaching. Learn more here.
Shadow Rock UCC is excited to host songwriter and director Melanie DaMore on Saturday, October 10, from 10 am to 3 pm. Melanie chooses music from many genres: spirituals, folk, original. Although not traditional church music, everything relates to deep wisdom and spirituality. No music reading ability needed. Register here. All are welcome. Ms. DaMore will also add her song leading to the worship service October 11.
Pathways courses this fall:
Course beginning August 5
Preaching for Special Occasions
Courses beginning September 1
Biblical Studies Project
Sermon Writing Project
Course beginning September 2
Making Sense of Theology
Courses beginning September 9
Professional Boundaries and Ministerial Self-Care
What is the Bible? (Dickinson/MBS)
Old Testament Hermeneutics
Biomes and Landforms in Scripture
Indigenous Theology
Pluralism and Religion in North America
Spiritual Care of Self and Others
Art of Preaching
How to Successfully Write about Faith for Newspapers (Proclaim)
Synthesizing: Faith Formation and Spiritual Practices for Children, Youth, and Adults - Level Three
Introduction to Supervised Ministry
Ethics and a Life of Meaning
UCC History and Polity - Next Session Starts September 9, 2026
