Mid-America Center for Ministry Director Fran Schnarre Retiring

Following a fruitful ten years as the Executive Director of the Missouri School of Religion, now the Mid-America Center for Ministry, Fran Schnarre has announced her retirement effective December 31, 2015. 

Fran's dedication, hard work, and vision has led the school into a new future as the Mid-America Center for Ministry and has put the school on a solid financial foundation. However, because of the increased workload that it will take to reach the MCM vision, coupled with the lure of grandchildren and family, Fran has accepted a call to a new chapter in her life. 

We are grateful for all she has done for the school ... and for her continued guidance over the next few months. And though she has given us plenty of notice, it will take some serious work to identify and to attract the next Executive Director. The position will be full time and calls for someone with strong financial development experience. We ask for your assistance as we begin our search to fill the position. Please share this job description with any potential candidates you feel may qualify to lead the Mid-America Center for Ministry in its mission to equip congregational leaders for Christian ministry. The posting for the position is below.

Thank you for your continued service, prayers, and support.

Bill Tenny-Brittian 
Board Chair
Mid-America Center for Ministry

Mid-America Center for Ministry

formerly Missouri School of Religion
  

Executive Director

Full-time contract beginning December 1 to serve at Executive Director for the Mid-America Center for Ministry (MCM). The primary responsibility of the Executive Director is to lead in the fulfillment of the school's mission to equip congregational leaders for Christian ministry. To that end, the Executive Director serves as the primary advancement officer and is responsible for increasing student enrollment, providing effective and efficient administration, and ensuring vision attainment for the Mid-America Center for Ministry. 

Qualifications:

• An active, demonstrable Christian faith
• Passion for equipping congregational leaders
• Proven advancement and fundraising skills
• Proven administrative and team building skills
• Effective and inspiring speaker
• Strategic thinker, planner, and implementer
• Person of high integrity (background check will be conducted)
• Congregational leadership experience preferred
• Strong ecumenical orientation

Complete job description available upon request.

Compensation: Renewable annual contract up to $60,000 (plus benefits package) depending on education and experience, plus potential annual performance bonus. 

Send resume and letter of interest by September 1, 2015 to Mid-America Center for Ministry, P.O. Box 104685, Jefferson City, MO 65110-4685. Phone (573) 635-1187. Email: office@m-acm.org.

What Does the Restructure Mean to Me? - a letter from Alex Ruth

The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of Mid-America
475 East Lockwood Avenue   St. Louis, Missouri 63119
314/918-2515   Fax: 314/918-2529
www.mid-americadisciples.org

June 3, 2015

By now you have probably heard of the proposed changes coming to the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of Mid-America. You’ve heard about the ongoing financial needs and the structural changes. And, if you are like many of the people I’ve talked to about this transition, you may be asking “What does it mean to me?”

Last fall, as a part of my doctoral studies, I conducted a survey of pastors and lay leaders from around our region. I hoped to better understand what pastors and congregations need and want from our Regional Ministry Team. I found what pastors and lay leaders need from the Regional Staff is remarkably similar to what church members want and need from their pastoral leaders; support, prayer, guidance, and skill development.

In Ephesians 4:12, Paul explains that the many gifts of leadership in the church are given “to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” (NRSV) This is true, not only in the local congregation, but in all expressions of the church. Disciples of Christ historian Ronald Osborn notes; “Alexander Campbell thought of the great church as a ‘community of communities.’ He advocated a ‘general church organization’ which would give expression to this thought.” Just as every church leader has specific gifts and abilities which help to encourage and equip the body for ministry, our Regional Ministry team members have different gifts and abilities that equip and encourage the pastors and laity to participate in the ministries of the church.

The results of the surveys confirmed that both congregations and pastors long for a greater sense of connectedness with other churches and other pastors around the region and beyond. Historically, however, we have struggled to find a balance between the need for connection and the contextual nature of ministry. At times this tension has led to discord and the fracturing of relationships. At other times, however, it has brought unity and a sense of purpose to a diversified group of believers. Sometimes we long for the support that connection with other communities of faith provides. However, we know that each community brings with it a unique blend of challenges and opportunities.

I have been asked, “Why do we need the Region?” I believe that we need the Region for the same reason that we, as Christians, need the local church. We are meant to be part of the body of Christ. I believe that body extends beyond the local congregation. Osborn claims “the church operates on the principle of mutual consent within a common commitment.” What I believe we are being asked (I would say called) to do is to reaffirm our commitment to one another as Disciples. We are called to be a community of faith that extends beyond the boundaries of our sanctuary walls, beyond city limits, county lines, state borders, and even countries and continents. We are called to support one another as we strive to fulfill the ministries to which God is calling us.

During his inaugural address, during uncertain times here in the US and around the world, President John F. Kennedy urged us to think differently; “ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.” I believe the same is true in our churches, and in our region. Instead of asking what our region can do for us, we are called to ask what we can do to support our region. But, don’t take it from me, or even President Kennedy; Jesus told his disciples “whoever wishes to be great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be your slave.” (Matthew 20:26-27, NRSV)

I hope you will join me in asking, “How can I support, how can I serve, the church across our region, and around the world?” And, if I might be so bold, I would like to suggest some answers; prayer, finances, service, and involvement. We can and certainly should be in prayer for our regional leaders and for congregations around the region as we engage our local communities in life-giving ministry. We can and certainly should continue to provide financial support for the important connectional ministries of the region. We can and certainly should be involved in the various committees and ministries of the region. Because we are part of the body of Christ, and “If one member suffers, all suffer together with it; if one member is honored, all rejoice together with it.” (1 Corinthians 12: 26, NRSV)

Journeying together,

Rev. Alex Ruth
Marshfield Christian Church

Welcome to the Joy of Giving! A letter from Budget Chair Kathy Brown

The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of Mid-America
475 East Lockwood Avenue   St. Louis, Missouri 63119
314/918-2515   Fax: 314/918-2529
www.mid-americadisciples.org

May 28, 2015

Last week, our regional moderator Guy Adams wrote a letter informing congregations and leaders throughout the Christian Church of Mid-America about exciting (and maybe a bit scary) changes happening in our region.

I am writing in follow-up to his letter. I have served on the CCMA budget committee for at least six years, and as committee chair for the past four years. The budget committee’s role has expanded over the years from that of focusing solely on developing a biennial budget to one of closely reviewing and monitoring income and expenses on a monthly basis, making (sometimes painful and unpopular) spending reduction recommendations to the executive committee, and almost literally determining how to creatively “rob Peter to pay Paul.”

One might ask why I have continued to volunteer to work on this committee – and it is a reasonable question. The most compelling reason is that I believe that God is present in and working through the Christian Church of Mid-America. I believe the “faithful remnant” that remains following cuts and eliminations is strong, and is filled with the same Spirit that empowered the early Christians on that long-ago Pentecost. I am excited about the visionary work that has been happening over the past few years, and I strongly feel that CCMA is transforming and becoming a body that can ably “resource and support congregations, individually and collectively, as they seek to be more faithful, effective, and sustainable in the mission to which God calls us” (excerpted from the CCMA Mission Statement). It is true that our inability to financially sustain “the way we were” has been a key factor in determining the need for change, however I really believe that God has used this situation to “do a new thing” in MidAmerica. I see mission and ministry replacing administration and bureaucracy, and I praise God for this.

I can assure you that your gifts to CCMA will be used to provide mission and ministry to our congregations in the most effective and efficient way possible. Todd Adams, our Associate General Minister and Vice-President, put it very simply: “Congregations in the Mid-America region can choose to continue their area giving as a designated gift to the region, not subject to the DMF allocation formula. These congregations should also make a gift to DMF….Designated gifts do not have a negative impact on the region’s distribution via DMF.”

What congregations have given in the past to their Area needs to be continued (and enhanced if possible). On the “remittance form” which will be provided to all congregations (to send to OGMP Treasury Services in Indianapolis), the line “Mid-America Ministries (formerly known as Area Support),” will insure that 100% of former Area giving returns to the Mid-America region for the ongoing support of those ministries formerly associated with our Areas.

In my local congregation, we celebrate the “joy of giving” each Sunday as we give back to God a portion of the abundance we have received, knowing that our gifts support ministries and missions about which we care deeply. I am excited to now feel that way about our giving to the Christian Church of Mid-America!

As we say at Rock Bridge Christian Church, welcome to the joy of giving!

Kathy Brown
Chairperson, Christian Church of Mid-America Budget Committee

Click here for a printable version.

A Letter from our Moderator about CCMA's Restructure

The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of Mid-America
475 East Lockwood Avenue  Ÿ  St. Louis, Missouri 63119
314/918-2515  Ÿ  Fax: 314/918-2529
www.mid-americadisciples.org

---

May 20, 2015

Vision:           CCMA is envisioned as a continuously developing network of relationships that includes broader and deeper participation by congregations, ministers, and laity in congregational clusters, learning communities and shared missions and ministries.

Mission:        CCMA’s mission is to resource and support congregations, individually and collectively, as they seek to be more faithful, effective, and sustainable in the mission to which God calls us.

Values:          In keeping with Ephesians 4:11-12, CCMA also affirms the core values of true community (mutual support and accountability), deep Christian spirituality, and a passion for justice.

Welcome to the new Mid-America!  If all goes as currently planned, effective January 1, 2016, our current four Areas will have merged all their operations into the Christian Church of Mid America.  As many of you are aware, we have been deeply engaged in a process of transformation for the past five years.  Please take note of our vision, mission and values printed at the top of this page.

Many congregations have experienced their most direct support from their respective Area; please know that it is our strong commitment to continue (and multiply) these ministries!

We have been moving as rapidly as we can to a network model of mission and ministry in Mid America (see the Vision!).  That has meant moving away from a staff and program-driven “hub and spoke” model of middle judicatory.  It takes time (more than it should!) to “de-layer” much of what we do.  Beginning in January, 2016, the decks will (finally) be cleared for us to direct our full energies into fostering and jump-starting networks of ministries and missions throughout Mid America.  We can, and will, do more—much more—with less!

We need your help with financial support!  Todd Adams, our Associate General Minister and Vice-President, put it very simply:  “Congregations in the Mid-America region can choose to continue their area giving as a designated gift to the region, not subject to the DMF allocation formula.  These congregations should also make a gift to DMF….Designated gifts do not have a negative impact on the region’s distribution via DMF.”

What congregations have given in the past to their Area needs to be continued (and enhanced if possible).  On the “remittance form” which will be provided to all congregations (to send to OGMP Treasury Services in Indianapolis), the line “Mid America Ministries (formerly known as Area Support),” will insure that 100% of former Area giving returns to the Mid America region for the ongoing support of those ministries formerly associated with our Areas.

We certainly want all of our Mid America congregations to continue (and enhance if possible) their financial support of our Disciples Mission Fund, which underwrites important ministries and missions of the general church.  As you know, approximately 43% of these funds return to the Mid America region.

We have made a good beginning in realizing our vision, mission and values!  Hopefully, everyone has been to our new website: http://www.mid-americadisciples.org/  We have new resource teams up and running:  Youth and Outdoor Ministries; Pro-Reconciliation/Anti Racism; Disciples Care Team.  Regional Commissions (like Mission and Unity and New Church/Vital Church) are exploring ways to support current initiatives and those being created by new networks forming among Mid-America Disciples. Disciples Women’s Ministries, which pioneered the network model for us all, continues its alive and vibrant work.  The Regional Commission on the Order of Ministry, as well as Search and Call support for congregations are on-going.

Welcome to the new Mid-America!

Guy Adams, Mid-America Moderator
ill Rose-Heim, Penny Ross-Corona, Kris Tenny-Brittian, Mike Weinman, Mid-America Ministry Team

Click here for a printable version.

Joplin Four Years Later

It's been four years since the devastating tornado that changed Joplin forever. Today hope continues to flourish and the community that has worked so hard and been through so much together continues to collaborate towards tomorrow.

Joplin Globe photo. Click here for full story.

The Station, which closed last year after hosting more than 1,400 volunteers over a 2 1/2 year period, is now providing a temporary location for Crosslines food pantry. The pantry had to move out of its former building by the end of April due to that property's purchase by the city for use by the local baseball team. Thanks to South Joplin Christian Church, the many who receive food assistance through Crosslines will still be able to do so as they transition into a permanent new location. Read more.

South Joplin Christian Church is also seeking to renew its special use zoning permit so that the facility, which is located in a residential neighborhood, can be used to house volunteers again should the need arise over the next five years. See local TV news coverage here.

What's New at the Mid-America Center for Ministry

Mid-America Center for Ministry is expanding its leadership training opportunities for lay leaders. They would like to thank everyone for their input to the Lay Leadership Development Survey.  They had over 240 responses to the survey, giving valuable data to design educational offerings.  As they refine this data, they once again request your input. Continue to Survey.

Upcoming online classes:
Church History
Proclamation of the Word
Introduction to Mid-America Center for Ministry
Administration and Planning
Pastoral Care
History and Polity of the Disciples of Christ
Pastoral Care
Introduction to the Old Testament
Christian Ethics
 

Upcoming Boundary Training:
September 19
October 3

Find more information about all of these programs here!

Southeast Gateway Area Assembly

The Southeast Gateway Area Assembly met on Saturday, April 18, 2015 at First Christian Church in Dexter, Missouri.  The theme was “Come and See” and the focus scripture was John 1:35-42. Seventy-five people attended the event and all were welcomed and cared for in fine style by our hosting congregation.

Our opening worship was graced with wonderful music by our Assembly music group: Steve Staicoff, John Harwell, Larry Speight, and Sarah Moore who introduced themselves as “A Wing and a Prayer.” The message was brought by hosting pastor Rev. Michael Williams, who reminded us that Christ calls us to be the church in this place in this time. He went on to challenge the group to follow Christ in a new direction, not knowing what we’ll find, but being willing to Come and See, trusting the one who walks before us.

Area Minister Penny Ross-Corona made a brief presentation outlining the regional restructure proposal and highlighting all of the related documentation. Those gathered then broke out into small groups, led by SEGA board members, where all were able to discuss the proposal and how it might impact their congregations and our collective ministries.

After a delicious lunch, the business session heard a few reports and then focused on the restructure proposal. Each of the small groups that had met earlier had a chance to report comments and ask questions. Following this discussion, the vote was unanimously in favor of the proposal.

Workshops then met to brainstorm how our shared ministries like Disciples Women and Men, Youth and Outdoor, Mission, Peacemaking, Hospitality, and Clusters may evolve and flourish given a new structure. Finally, the closing worship included communion, an offering designated for new churches, and a challenge to “go forth into the new seasons of our lives and of our shared ministries…in God’s continuing presence, with the power to love and the strength to serve.”​

Lutheran School of Theology Announces Easter Term Classes

April Courses

“MANY NEW FACES OF CHRIST TODAY:  Jesus Seen Through Third World Eyes”

The Rev. Dr. Warren Crews, adjunct faculty, Eden Seminary, will explore new thinking about Jesus that is arising among Latin American, Asian and African Christians as they seek to move beyond the images of Jesus that they have inherited from European and American missionaries to new ones that express their own people’s deepest desires for new life in Christ. The Lutheran School of Theology course will be three Tuesdays, April 14-28, 7:00- 9:30 P. M. at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 105 E. D St., Belleville, IL 62220.  Tuition is $48.  Register online at lststl.org/courses/ or by phone at 314-918-2556 or by email to registrar@lststl.org or by mail to LST c/o Eden Seminary, 475 E. Lockwood, St. Louis, MO, 63119.

“UNDERSTANDING THE PLOT OF THE BIBLE:  A People Who Look Like God” 

This Lutheran School of Theology course will explore questions such as:  What really was Abraham’s test?  What function did the Ten Commandments serve?  What purpose did Jesus’ miracles and parables serve?  How do all the stories of the Bible fit together?  Does the Church’s “first confession” hold the key?  What is the Bible’s answer to “apotropaic” religion?  It is taught by  Rev. Richard Mueller, Pastor, Atonement Lutheran Church, Florissant, Mo.  It is six Tuesday afternoons, April 14-May 19, from 3:15 to 5:15 P. M. at Christ Lutheran Church, 1 Selma Ave., Webster Groves, MO 63119.  Tuition is $77 (please disregard some publicity showing a $96 fee).  Register online at lststl.org/courses/ or by phone at 314-918-2556 or by email to registrar@lststl.org or by mail to LST c/o Eden Seminary, 475 E. Lockwood, St. Louis, MO, 63119.

May 21 Workshop

“PREACHING JOHN”  Workshop

The author of a recent commentary on the book of John, a teacher of homiletics, and a frequent contributor toworkingpreacher.org, instructor Rev. Dr. Karoline Lewis of Luther Seminary, St. Paul, MN, will trace the broad themes in the book of John and offer insights on preaching specific pericopes.  The class will gain an appreciation of John’s unique portrait of Jesus and how John’s theology guides the living out of faith in daily life.  The one day workshop sponsored by Lutheran School of Theology will start at 9:00 A. M. and conclude at 2:30 P. M. with registration starting at 8:30 A. M.  It will be at Press Education Building, Room 240, Eden Seminary, 475 E. Lockwood, Webster Groves, MO 63119.  Fee including lunch is $42.  Register online at lststl.org/courses/ or by phone at 314-918-2556 or by email to registrar@lststl.org or by mail to LST c/o Eden Seminary, 475 E. Lockwood, St. Louis, MO, 63119.

A Pastoral Letter and Call to Action: Journey to Ferguson

02/25/15

Lent 2015

In the six months following the killing of Michael Brown, an unarmed African American teenager, by a police officer in Ferguson, Missouri, many of us have struggled to understand what we see on television, in newspapers, and through social media and the internet. Not reported or highlighted, is the involvement of churches and communities of faith in meeting the challenges associated with these events. In this time of grief, frustration, and even hope, a number of Disciples congregations in St. Louis and beyond have been faithfully engaging in shared mission, conversations and community fellowship opportunities in response to these events.

Recently, the General Cabinet of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) went to Ferguson, to share in a day-long conversation and dialogue with local Disciples pastors in the St. Louis area. The focus of the visit was on exploring how the wider church can walk alongside our local churches to respond and offer a meaningful and positive Christian witness in situations such as those experienced in the United States in light of the events in Ferguson and other parts of the country.

We lament the recent tragic deaths of young black males in Ferguson, in Staten Island, in Cleveland and in Los Angeles—as well as the killing of two police officers in New York City. In keeping with our commitment to our Pro-Reconciliation and Anti-Racist mission priority, we understand these events as more than simple matters of crime and policing. Through this lens we begin to see that these incidents highlight ongoing inequalities in our society. They serve as a reminder that racial injustice persists much deeper in our common life together than we care to admit. We also become aware of the nature of unconscious bias that shapes the actions of individuals as well as the larger systems of our society in ways that often elude our direct observation and recognition. The sin of racism continues to stand as an affront to the Good News of our faith and as a wound in the heart of our nation(s) and church.

We reaffirm the message from our Disciples Reconciliation Ministry in early January that declared, "What happened on a remote intersection in Ferguson, Missouri on August 9, 2014, was tragic for the community and our nation. The death of Michael Brown and the incidents that followed have opened the door to a conversation for which we can no longer remain silent. Christ is beckoning us to break the silence, and to act in accountable ways toward one another so we can all be set free."

Our journey to Ferguson reminded us that, as Christians, our focus is on the dignity of all persons—as equal children of God—and the call truly to be neighbors, as reflected in Christ’s charge to his disciples, “love one another as I have loved you.” John 13:34

Growing out of our conversation, we offer the words prepared for a litany responding to the events in Ferguson: "Let us not rush to the language of healing before understanding the fullness of the injury and the depth of the wound…Let us not speak of reconciliation without speaking of how we can repair the breach and how we can restore the loss."[i]

The season of Lent draws Christians into prayerful reflection, penitence, lament and self-discovery as we focus our thoughts and lives upon Jesus and his sacrifice for the sin of the world. Perhaps, in this season, we might give up our desire for easy prepackaged answers fed to us by television pundits and delivered to us in 140 character parcels. Outside there is a wilderness of mistrust, inequality, racism, and violence that we often ignore or avoid. We remain in our homes; we remain in our churches; we remain in our silos of thought and perspective.

Listening to the pastors challenged us as Disciples. We were moved by the stories of hardship and hope in our conversations. As a “movement for wholeness,” we acknowledge our brokenness, particularly by the sin of racism, and join hands with our members and congregations in St. Louis and across the country who are committed to healing in the lives of the church and community. We urge the Church to deepen its commitment to promote anti-racism through local efforts toward intentional dialogue and action for justice and healing.

We call on all Disciples congregations to reach out in their local communities and become part of the ongoing conversations and actions.[ii] This means we must seek out willing partners in conversation from communities and churches of different racial, ethnic and cultural backgrounds to explore more fully the implications of inequality and racial injustice for our lives as Christians. These sustained conversations must have as their focus the dignity of all persons, and we must commit ourselves to praying together for understanding and healing.  Some of us have been having this conversation for a long time; we will need to marshal the endurance to continue it. For others, the conversation will be new, perhaps even awkward and uncomfortable.  With the covering of prayer, however, the needed patience and understanding will accompany and effect sacred and productive conversations.

We went to Ferguson not as those who have answers, but to listen and to learn – and, most of all, to seek to understand how we might make an authentic witness for racial justice in our own lives, in our churches, and in our nation and world.

May this Lenten season become for us a sign of the healing love of Christ.

Huberto Pimentel 
National Hispanic Pastor
Central Pastoral Office for Hispanic Ministries

Brad Lyons
President and Publisher
Christian Board of Publication/Chalice Press

Gary W. Kidwell 
President
Christian Church Foundation

Robert Welsh
President
Council on Christian Unity

Erick D. Reisinger  
President
Disciples Church Extension Fund

Ronald J. Degges
President
Disciples Home Missions

Patricia Donahoo
Executive Director
Disciples Women

Julia Brown Karimu
President, Division of Overseas Ministries
Co-Executive, Global Ministries

[i] Dr. Yolanda Pierce, United Church of Christ minister

[ii] For resources or ideas please go to  www.reconciliationministry.org

To better understand how we are unintentionally subject to implicit bias – take the online Implicit Association Test at https://implicit.harvard.edu/implicit/

Sharon E. Watkins
General Minister and President

Todd A. Adams
Associate General Minister and Vice President

Chris Dorsey 
President
Higher Education and Leadership Ministries

Gilberto Collazo
President
Hope Partnership for Missional Transformation

Mark D. Anderson 
President
National Benevolent Association

Timothy M. James
Associate General Minister
Administrative Secretary, National Convocation of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

Jinsuk Chun 
Executive Pastor
North American Pacific/Asian Disciples (NAPAD)

James P. Hamlett
President
Pension Fund of the Christian Church

Creative Youth Ministry Ideas for Lent: Engaging Teens on the Journey to Easter & Beyond

Authors Brian Kirk of First Christian Church in St. Joseph and Jacob Thorne of Community Christian Church in Manchester have made this 33 page book available for free download here. 

In it you'll find information about Bible studies, prayer ideas, and worship suggestions to engage youth from Ash Wednesday to Easter and beyond.

Council on Christian Unity Opens Executive Search

The Board of Directors of the Council on Christian Unity announces the job opening for President-Elect. Interested applicants are asked to submit a letter of interest and resume with the names and contact information for four references (including a Regional Minister for pastors or a congregational pastor for lay people). Applicants may send this information to ccusearch@gmail.com by March 15, 2015. Please share this information with anyone you feel would be appropriate. The profile and links to other information are available on the disciples.org website. 

National Benevolent Association Seeking Director of Marketing

The Director of Marketing must have the ability to think strategically and act tactically to develop, analyze, manage and execute all marketing and communications functions of the NBA, keeping in priority the NBA's covenant relationship as a general ministry organization for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

Find all of the information here.

Applications due by February 20th.

United Ministries in Higher Education Receives Lilly Grant

United Ministries in Higher Education (a campus ministry serving Missouri State University in Springfield, Missouri) has received a grant to explore more deeply its role in helping college students reflect on faith and calling in their lives.  Lilly Endowment Inc. awarded the $100,000 grant as part of its national initiative to strengthen the work of campus ministries serving public university campuses. United Ministries in Higher Education is one of 27 ministries awarded funds through the Campus Ministry Theological Exploration of Vocation Initiative.

Established in 2012, the initiative furthers a longstanding commitment of the Endowment to help young adults make connections between their academic and career choices and their lives of faith. United Ministries in Higher Education will spend the next five years establishing programs that will connect students with a pre-ministry mentoring program, the “Faith & Life Matters” speakers series, career assessment tools, and small-group discussions reflecting on careers in ministry.

The Rev. Howard Cavner, UMHE campus minister and member of National Avenue Christian Church, says the grant is a game changer for the ministry.  “New partnerships continue to emerge that will allow us to assist students in discerning a call to ministry,” Cavner said.  “Participating in our Lilly programs will provide students with mentoring that will enhance their education at MSU and future faith driven experiences.”

Samantha Nichols, a peer minister with UMHE and the first student to benefit from this initiative, describes the ministry as life-changing.  “UMHE has helped me discern my call, given me valuable ministry experiences, introduced me to close friends, and supported me in so many educational, professional, and personal ways,” she said.  “I can’t wait to see what our new, young members will accomplish and discover.”

For more than 15 years, the Indianapolis-based Lilly Endowment has been learning about the place of faith on college and university campuses and how the connection can influence the career trajectory of students. Initial efforts on faith-based campuses have been extended to large public universities.

“This initiative is enabling campus ministries to play an even more prominent role in identifying and nurturing a new generation of talented religious leaders for church and society,” said Dr. Christopher Coble, the Endowment’s vice president of religion.

About Lilly Endowment Inc.: Lilly Endowment Inc. is an Indianapolis-based private philanthropic foundation created in 1937 by J.K. Lilly and his two sons, Eli and J.K. Jr., with gifts of stock in their pharmaceutical company.  The Endowment is primarily committed to the causes of community development, education and religion.

Clergy 2014 Continuing Education reports due January 31st

All clergy are required to have their Continuing Educational Report in to the offices of the Christian Church of Mid-America, Springfield, 500 South Street, Springfield, MO 65806, by close of business on January 31. Or send the filled online form to olaccma@sbcglobal.net. 

The report form can be found online here.

The policy for Continuing Education can be found here.

Continuing Education is a necessary part of all professionals.  This will help us continue to keep up with changes in direction of ministries.  Anyone who has served the Church knows that the Church today acts differently from the Church of twenty years ago…are you prepared?

Part of the Continuing Education requirement is to have a course in Boundary Training.  Programs are provide each year through Mid-America Center for Ministry (MCM) and Eden Theological Seminary.  This course is required every five years.  The dates for 2015 are:

Eden Theological Seminary                February 6

MCM, Springfield, Central CC             March 21

MCM, Brookfield, First CC                  October 3

 You may register for the Mid-America Center for Ministry courses at

https://midamericacenterforministry.wordpress.com/continuing-education/boundaries-training/

[Please note at this writing the dates are not in the narrative on the page, 

but you can find them in the online registration.]

 For Eden Seminary in St. Louis – contact Chris Davis at cdavis@eden.edu.

Disciples Home Mission Summer Mission Internships Available

What are you doing next summer? Mission Intern Flyer

Applications for the 2015 Mission Internships are now open. Please read the following information carefully; if you feel that this summer internship may be for you, a link to the application is at the bottom of this page.

Are you looking for a faith-filled adventure? Do you imagine a life beyond the mundane, working beyond cultural boundaries, faithfulness beyond the familiar? This may be the just what you’re looking for.

On behalf of Disciples Home Missions and Week of Compassion, Disciples Volunteering seeks applicants for summer interns who will serve with mission partners across the country. With a primary focus on Leadership Development, interns will host volunteer groups in mission settings, face cross-cultural issues, engage diverse groups of people, serve in hands-on mission experiences through the church, and help church groups make justice connections between the mission site and their home churches.

Each intern can expect individual supervision and opportunities for reflection on personal, spiritual, and social justice issues. Some interns may also earn college or seminary Field Education credit, with theological supervision provided through Disciples Volunteering.

A number of placements are available, perhaps including:

Disciples Volunteering Disaster Response Mission Station
Yakama Christian Mission, White Swan, Washington
Urban Spirit, Louisville, KY
Urban Mission Inn, St. Louis, MO

Preference will be given to members of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) or the United Church of Christ.

Applicants must be age 20 to 27 (as of May 24, 2015) and be available for placement without interruption from May 24 to August 7, 2015.

Each intern earns a stipend of $2,500, sponsored in part through DHM and Week of Compassion; lodging, travel and most meals are provided.

Please note that there is an early decision deadline: applicants completing their application and having all references submitted by Jan. 7, 2015 will be considered first for the summer placements, with interviews to take place Jan. 9 and 12. Placements will be announced by Jan. 16, 2015. If any internships remain, they will be filled from among those whose application and all references are submitted by Feb. 5, 2015, with interviews to be conducted Feb. 9 and 10. Placements will be announced by Feb. 13, 2015.

The application form is available here.

For additional information contact: Intern Coordinator Deb Conrad at (502) 550-1236, Josh Baird at (985) 778-6915, or Brenda Tyler at (317) 713-2642.

Applications are now being received and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the position is filled. Qualified applicants will be contacted for an  interview.  

Ferguson: How Mid-America Disciples Are Responding

While Mid-America Disciples are not of one mind about the Grand Jury verdict in the Ferguson case, nearly all of us agree that racism and its institutionalization is contrary to the teaching of Jesus Christ.  When black men are six times more likely to be incarcerated (http://www.naacp.org/pages/criminal-justice-fact-sheet) and for longer terms than their white peers (and many of those terms to be served in for-profit-prisons) something needs to change.  When black shoppers are feared or suspected more often than welcomed and courteously served  (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YyL5EcAwB9c), something has to change.

Racism, working its deadly way much like Ebola, polio or malaria is an infectious moral disease that is easily spread and difficult but not impossible to contain, and, like a deadly virus it must be stopped before millions more of all skin colors suffer its senseless indignities, injuries and even death.  

Racism won't go away with the last of the media vans leaving Ferguson.  Today more Christ-followers are joining the ranks of those open to that still small voice voice that continually advocates for life as God intends for everyone.   Many are working to make reconciliation a reality.  For those who have hesitated until now, unsure of what to do, today is a good day to take one positive action.

Beyond prayers for all affected by the grand jury ruling yesterday and/or by the rioting that took place last night, Mid-America Disciples are finding ways to move beyond reaction to response.

• Four Disciples congregations opened their doors last night in St. Louis to all who needed refuge, a compassionate ear or just a place to pray and someone to join with them in that prayer.  Those doors will stay open as long as the need exists.

• Disciples are connecting with those who express anxiety or anguish to listen deeply - not as counselors but as neighbors.

• Disciples are visiting the Reconciliation Minsitry page (www.reconciliationministry.org) for more ideas about taking next steps. 

The Mid-America Pro-Reconciliation/Anti-Racism Team would be very glad to arrange for training-that-makes-a-difference for you and other members of your congregation.  They/we can help you to become better informed and equipped to turn frustration into positive, life-affirming action in the name of Jesus.  Contact Phil Smith (phil.minnie@yahoo.com) or Margie Pride (memblvdcc@sbcglobal.net).

Time for Planning is Now...Continuing Education

Dr. G Mike Weinman, Mid-America Ministry Team, RCOM Coordinator

 In September, I participated in the Hope Partnership for Missional Transformation Leadership Academy taking the learning community for Interim Ministry Network Training.  Leigh Early, a seasons Interim and trainer for IMN, was the convener.  After much conversation those in attendance urged Lee and Hope Partnership to continue the Interim Training within the Academy program.  The full program will now be offered during the Leadership Academy, 2015.

 As Leigh explained in an email to the previous participants:

 In February [2015] we will hold another 3-day course -- just like we did in September [2014].  Same cost -- $750.00 includes room, meals, IMN materials, training and a year’s membership for Interim Ministry Network.  That is a much better deal than any of the IMN sponsored events.  SO WE NEED YOUR HELP letting your friends know about this event, and your perception of its value.  This is open to anyone Disciples, UCC, or any other denomination as long as they realize it is part of a larger Disciples of Christ event.  Naturally it will offer the same kind of schedule with Evening Meal, Lodging and opening worship on Monday Evening, opportunity for a couple extra workshops, and the full IMN FTML course.  Meal and lodging continues through Friday morning Breakfast.  The larger group also arranges transportation to and from the airport for anyone who flies, saving even more money.  All in all it is a great deal, so tell your friends.  The dates are February 23-27, 2015  (The IMN course Starts after Breakfast on Tuesday February 24 and concludes before the evening meal Thursday Feb 26th)

ALSO in September we are offering a five day course, the second course called: Fundamentals for Transitional Ministry: The Work of The Congregation.  Because our time frame is longer than the Hope Partnership Leadership Academy we will need to start on Monday after breakfast, and will conclude Friday Afternoon.  Details are not finalized yet, … But if the hotel price holds, and we can figure out two lunches we will be able to offer this course for about $1,150 or no more than $1,200.  That cost includes room, meals, and tuition for the Interim Ministry Training, and the cost of fieldwork (which is the next 5-6 months).  A regular IMN sponsored event costs $1190.00 for tuition plus meals, and lodging.  So again as you can see this is a great deal.  Again anyone can register, even people who have had the 3 day course from an IMN course.  Again, WE NEED YOUR HELP getting the word our, about this event.  

 Registration for the February event is open now.  The September event will not officially be open for registration until after the February Event, but anyone interest can begin the IMN portion (Reading and a form) anytime by emailing me.  leighearley@sbcglobal.net.

 We are hoping to have small scholarships available from ADIIM, especially for Disciples but not limited to Disciples.  We are still working out the details.

 I would also remind Disciples Pastors that there may be scholarship help available from your region or from DHM, but applications and requests need to be in sooner rather than later.

The transition period between resident pastors is a most important time in the life of any congregation.  But, periods of transition can take place many times within a year of a congregation’s life.  Yes, IMN training is for those who want to be proficient helping congregations through the between time transitions.   Yet, I want to say to all clergy, this training will help at all times in your ministry.  Whether you want to do Interims at some point later in your career, this training with its transitional understandings will help you NOW. 

If you have questions about this program, please look at the web page for IMN… www.imnedu.org , or contact Mike Weinman, mike-olaccma@sbcglobal.net ,

417-865-0850

Information for the Hope Partnership Leadership Academy… http://www.hopepmt.org/transform/leadership-academy

NBA XPLOR Invites Applications for 2015-2016 Cohort

In August 2014, the National Benevolent Association (NBA) launched a brand new service residency year called NBA XPLOR. Based on a collaborative model of shared ministry that includes Disciples congregations and Regions, community-based non-profits, and the NBA, a total of twelve young adults are currently living in groups of four at three XPLOR Houses across the United States: St. Louis, MO; Hiram-Mantua, OH; and North Hollywood, CA.

The NBA XPLOR program is now inviting applications for the 2015—2016 XPLOR cohort. These new Residents would be part of the program from August 2015 through June 2016. It is expected that there will be at least seven XPLOR sites available for 25+ Residents in the second year of the program! An online application form is available here. 

Applications will be processed as they are received between these deadlines:

• Early Decision Deadline: December 5, 2014, announced by December 22, 2014.
  Applicant interviews and reference calls will be conducted between 12/6 – 12/22.
• Cornerstone Deadline: January 9, 2015, announced by January 23, 2015. 
  Applicant interviews and reference calls will be conducted between 1/12 – 1/22.
• Extended Deadline: February 8, 2015, announced by February 27, 2015.
  Applicant interviews and reference calls will be conducted between 2/10 – 2/26.

What is XPLOR? Imagine four to seven young adults, ages 21-30, living together in intentional, simple, diverse, Christian community for 10 months. Now imagine those young adults working 30 hours a week in a not-for-profit, social service agency; up to six hours a week in a creative ministry with a local Disciples congregation, and spending several hours a week with a Spiritual Companion.
The four cornerstones of XPLOR are powerful and intentional: hands-on service/justice work; simple living in community; spiritual discernment on vocation; and Disciples leadership development.
XPLOR is committed to the cultivation of a widely diverse population; Without naming all the possible natures of diversity, NBA XPLOR believes that diversity is a major component of intentional community living and will seek to provide diversity in all XPLOR Houses. Anti-Racism and Anti-Oppression Training is an integral part of the NBX XPLOR spiritual and leadership development, beginning with the NBA XPLOR Orientation each August, and 
lasting throughout the full 10 months.
Potential XPLOR applications could be 2015 college graduates or more recent college graduates; young adults who did not attend college at all or with only limited college work; young adults ending a time of military service; young working professionals, who are less interested in “money” and more in “meaning,” young married couples who are ready for a whole new adventure in life.
For more information email xplor@nbacares.org or visit www.nbacares.org/xplor.

Mid-America Center for Ministry 2015 Courses

The 2015 schedule for courses through the Mid-America Center for Ministry is available and registration for some is open. 

Visit their website here for more information.

Mid-America Center for Ministry Announces John Bennett and Rural Church Awardees

Mid-America Center for Ministry is proud to announce to announce that Ms. Donna Ross, former pastor of Zion United Church of Christ, St. Joseph, MO will receive the John Bennett Award for Ministry.  Before retiring to Oregon, Donna served Zion as a licensed minister.  While at Zion UCC she was a gifted preacher and spiritual leader.  In addition, she is also an advocate for LBGTQ issues.  She led Zion UCC’s Gay-Straight Christian Fellowship in planning the first ever St. Joseph LGBT Pride Fest in 2012.  This since has become an annual event hosted by the community of St. Joseph.  Donna is also a 2011 graduate of Mid-America Center for Ministry’s Certificate in Pastoral Ministry program.

Receiving the 2014 Rural Church Award is First Christian Church, Kennett, MO, pastored by Rev. Doug Cripe.  First Christian has an active Christian education program to nurture the faith of all ages.  They have discovered the joy of intergenerational activities.  Numerous young families have joined the church through the evangelism and personal invitations.  The congregation is also active in several community organizations, including Helping Hand (food pantry), the Community Garden, Virgie’s Place, and the Delta Children’s Home.  Through volunteers, board members and monetary support, the congregation strives to help those in need in the community. 

Both of these awards will be presented at Mid-America Center for Ministry’s Annual Dinner on November 7th at First Christian Church in Columbia, Missouri.  Registration and welcome begins at 5:30 p.m. and dinner will be served at 6:00 p.m.  Reservations for the dinner are required; to attend contact krystal@m-acm.org.

The Mid-America Center for Ministry is an ecumenical organization with roots in the former University of Missouri School of Religion that provides basic and continuing pastoral education for pastors and lay leaders.  Every year in September an invitation is extended to nominate individuals for the John Bennett Award and congregations for the Rural Ministry Awards.  The John Bennett Award celebrates pastors whose work promotes social justice in the communities they serve.  The Rural Ministry award is given to recognize the transformation work of congregations in rural communities.  Nomination forms for 2015 awards may be requested next year from Krystal Jacobs.