"...We will endeavor to minister to all who suffer, looking for ways to enable peace and justice within the Church and in the world."
Lane County Leaders Assembly on Immigration Lane County Leaders’ Assembly brings together faith, labor, community organizations and educators to build an alliance for the common good. The next assembly will be held on Tuesday, January 24 from 6-7:45 p.m. at First United Methodist Church (1376 Olive St.). They will address issues of:
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Invited guests will include elected officials from City, County, and State Government. We would love to have a great representation from First Congregational. On February 10, 2011, our congregation hosted a similar event, and the challenges we faced then continue now. Please prayerfully consider attending this important event in our community. For more information, contact Pastor Melanie or the CAUSA website at http://causaoregon.org/leaders-assembly-in-eugene-on-january-24th/
Egan Warming Center needs Volunteers!
When the temperature drops below 30 degrees, churches and community centers in our area open their doors to our neighbors who don’t have an inside place to sleep. It is called the Egan Warming Center, and volunteers are always needed. There is a particular need for people to be on call for cleanup following each Egan Warming Center activation. Go to eganwarmingcenter.com for more information about this wonderful ministry of St. Vincent de Paul and to find out how you can get involved.
Christmas Wreaths—Fresh and Handmade
This is the thirteenth year our church is supporting Women Fighting for Progress (Mujeres Luchadoras Progresistas). Your purchase of a holiday wreath supports farm worker women in Woodburn and contributes to the economic well-being of their families during the winter months, as well as the development of the women’s leadership and business skills.
The wreaths are hand-tied and made of Oregon noble fir. They are very beautiful, and each one is accented with holly, pine cones, and a red bow. You can order a wreath in the church lobby after worship on November 13, 20, or 27, or by calling Joanna Zamora (541-686-6181). Wreaths are $30—you need to pay in advance with a check made out to MLP.
You can pick up your wreath at the church on Sunday, December 4 during the Advent Festival after church.
Marriage Equality - Learning More, Getting Involved
There will be an organizational meeting January 8 after worship, for those who are interested in getting involved in the “Marriage Equality” movement on behalf of our congregation. Education, advocacy, furthering the movement of all members of our community to have the right to marry—are you interested in learning more about what that means at this critical moment in history for marriage rights and how you might get involved? Join Pastor Melanie and other members of this church family to find out more!
EWEB has announced an energy assistance program for households with someone who is 60 years of age or older. Eligibility is based on current income (not including savings or assets). Subsidies of $200 to cover water and electric charges are available. Appointments are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Anyone interested in this program can contact the Energy Office at 541-682-5354.
Help Wanted: Volunteers needed for Two Vital Ministries
- A Volunteer Coordinator (two-three hours per month) is needed to link First Congregational UCC volunteers with the Springfield Public Schools’ evening English for Speakers of Other Languages program for parents of SPS students. Work with great volunteers and ESOL teachers in supporting the learning of our immigrant neighbors!
- An First Congregational UCC Representative is needed to participate in the Oregon Faith Roundtable Against Hunger. Join members of an interfaith group from local congregations who meet monthly to plan activities and advocacy to reduce hunger in Lane County and throughout Oregon.
Contact Pastor Melanie if you are interested in either of these meaningful opportunities to serve.
Start Making A Reader Today: Volunteers needed!
SMART still accepting volunteers!
Start Making A Reader Today (SMART) is a program in many schools in our community which pairs struggling and emerging readers with caring adults who will read to them. Participating in SMART is an important way for our church community to support public education for all our children. Volunteers commit to one hour per week of reading one-to-one with students. The program begins the week of October 17, with training for new and returning volunteers the week prior. Interested? Contact Liz and Laurie at lmcnichols@getsmartoregon.org or call 541-726-3302. You can find out more about the SMART program at www.getsmartoregon.org.
Give the Gift of Sight by Donating Used Eyeglasses
The Lions Club International collects used eyeglasses for distribution to needy people in impoverished nations. The Eugene Downtown Lions have received approval from this church to place a collection box in the Fellowship Hall. Lion Jim Newton, a member of this church, will collect the glasses and sort them for later distribution to the needy. In addition to eyeglasses, you may also place used hearing aids and cell phones in the box.