The theme of “identity” always emerges from my core beliefs and shapes my ministry, including my pastoral care. The question I always start from is “who am I?” The idea of constructing a Christian self from all the broken pieces of my life is how I see myself growing as a pastor. My unique history and gifts are in continual dialogue with the preconceptions and assumptions of my congregation about who a pastor is and what a pastor does. I am not seminary trained. I am licensed, not ordained. Therefore, I was never indoctrinated to be a professional pastor. I am serving because I was called to this particular congregation, not because I wanted to make a career as clergy.

2 Corinthians 4:7 (New International Version)

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.

Thousands of homes are destroyed or damaged across the Mid West. FEMA has received 83,301 requests for individual household assistance from the five States impacted by floods (Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri and Wisconsin). This number does not include businesses, schools, churches or other institutions that were damaged. The maximum amount that may be received from FEMA is $28,800 – many people will receive less. United Church of Christ local churches in Iowa, Indiana, Wisconsin and Missouri have received a total of $37,000 from the One Great Hour of Sharing special fund, "2008 Tornadoes and Floods."

Plans are in the works for Rally Day which will be during church service on August 24th.

The Board of Christian Education will have a meeting on Monday, August 11th at 7:00 PM where plans will be finalized for Rally Day. We have two members which will be eligible for the B. C. Ed. Scholarship Fund. They are Jamie Popp and Brittney Spencer. If you know of anyone else who would be eligible please contact Roxie Lindsay or Carolyn Best.

Macaroni & Cheese
Peanut Butter
Cold or Hot Cereal
Canned Fruit
Fruit Juice Canned

Council Meeting
Monday, August 18th at 7:30 PM