THECHRISTIAN COMMCOMMUNITY

A Voice for Ecumenical Congregations and Christians Around the WorldVolume 71 Number 4

February 2021

BOARD OF DIRECTORSPresident Harry FoockleTreasurer Nicholas BrameSecretary Abraham WrightVP for Planning Jerry BrownVP for Regional Relationships Wendy ChildressVP for Financial Development Roberta SmithVP for Membership Enlistment Carter S.R. GarnerVP for Membership Services Wayne SamuelsVP for Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations Herman Harmelink, IIIVP for Leadership Development Rhonda BlevinsVP for Informational Services and Outreach Michael DonahueAuxiliary Representatives Wayne Samuels, Carl Davis, Sr., Connee Fitch-Blanks, Adrian Wallace, Javori MooreImmediate Past President William Samuels

BOARD OF TRUSTEESPresident Harry FoockleVP for Regional Relationships Wendy ChildressVP for Membership Enlistment Carter S.R. GarnerVP for Membership Services Wayne SamuelsSecretary Abraham WrightRegional Trustees Myrtis Brame, Sharyon Cosey, Doris Marcisak, Kenneth Young, Bruce Jones, Saundra Nelson, Julia Powe, Linda Hopkins

AUXILIARY HEADSYouth: Javori MooreSamaritans: Wayne SamuelsWomen’s Christian Fellowship: Connee Fitch-BlanksMinisterium: Carl Davis, Sr.Young Adults: Adrian Wallace

President’s Messageby Elder Harry Foockle

CHRISTIAN COMMUNITYA Voice for Ecumenical Congregations and Christians Around the World

THE

VOLUME 69 FEBRUARY 2019 NUMBER 4

BOARD OF TRUSTEESPresidentHarry Foockle

VP for Membership Enlistment Carter S.R. Garner

VP for Membership Services Wayne Samuels

SecretaryAbraham Wright

Regional TrusteesMyrtis Brame, Janet Burch Glenn Clay, Sharyon Cosey, Charles Addison, Doris Marcisak, Kenneth Young, Bruce Jones

BOARD OF DIRECTORSPresidentHarry FoockleTreasurerNicholas BrameSecretaryAbraham WrightVP for Planning Jerry BrownVP for Financial Development Roberta SmithVP for Membership Enlistment Carter S.R. GarnerVP for Membership Services Wayne SamuelsVP for Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations Herman Harmelink, IIIVP for Leadership Development Stephen YorkVP for Informational Services and Outreach Michael DonahueAuxiliary Representatives Wayne Samuels, Carolyn Nichols, Carl Davis, Sr.Immediate Past President William Samuels

AUxILIARy HEADSyouth: Andrenae BrownSamaritans: Wayne SamuelsWomen’s Christian Fellowship: Carolyn NicholsMinisterium: Carl Davis, Sr.

President’s MessageHarry Foockle

Grace and Peace from our Lord Jesus the ChristSome thoughts as we roll into the 2019 year facing reality from a report in the Atlantic Magazine. The reality of 6000 and upwards to 10,000 local churches die each year. Think about that for a few minutes. It is not just the ICCC impacted by these numbers it is the church everywhere.

George Bullard in Ministry Matters writes about three telltale signs that it’s time for a new vision.

“Blame: Watch for finger pointing. If it’s easy to identify the problem person, dynamic or influence that’s at fault – and if it’s not you then you are witnessing the dynamic of blame. Listen for statements such as: there aren’t enough young people coming to church; no one tithes anymore, we don’t have enough visitors and it’s all the pastor’s fault.

Sacrificial commitment required: Everyone is asked to give more, more, more. More money, more time and more service to the organization. This would seem to solve the problem of waning energy and attendance. But the problem is lack of vision, not lack of commitment. And I suspect the actual under lying problem is something else. There isn’t something big to commit to.

Nostalgia or anger: Nostalgia about the way things were quickly turns to anger when it becomes apparent that the good old days aren’t coming back. And they’re not getting resurrected easily. Bullard points out that a focus on senior adults is a focus on the present. A focus on 25-40 year olds and their kids is a focus on the future.

He writes that some say we have a lack of commitment to Biblical authority. Others say we have a lack of commitment to inclusivity. I suspect that the issue isn’t so much a lack of commitment as it is a lack of vision. We need a vision however, one based on blame, nostalgia or anger won’t cut it. We will just stay stuck in the same old pattern of decline. We need a new vision.

Well, you can agree or disagree with his thoughts, but you cannot disagree that we are in a decline as far as local churches, denominations and our beloved ICCC goes. But I believe we are on the right track. We know the strength of our movement is the acceptance and love for each other that we may all be one. But vision is another matter. A matter we have well at hand.

Recently, I read these words from our Executive Director Phil Tom, “Our task is not to save or to preserve an institution but to boldly proclaim God’s Good News, to share and to live out God’s compassion and justice, and to make disciples of all nations! If we do this well, then the ICCC and our congregations will grow in spirit and in numbers.”

That my friends is vision, and it should be our vision as a call from the Lord God Almighty to the ICCC movement TO BOLDY PROCLAIM GOD’S GOOD NEWS, TO SHARE AND TO LIVE OUT GOD’S COMPASSION AND JUSTICE, AND TO MAKE DISCIPLES OF ALL NATIONS.

PAGE 2 THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY OCTOBER 2018

President’s Message

Harry Foockle

Grace and peace to the people of the

ICCC in the name of Jesus our Christ.

If I may, as I write the first time as your

President, share the “Cotton Patch”

version by Clarence Jordon of Paul’s

Letter to the Philippians.

“Every thought of you makes me

thank God for you, and all my prayers

for you are flooded with joy because

of your partnership with me in the

good news from the very first moment

you heard it until the present. (verses

3-4).

And this I pray: that your love may

keep growing until you have such an

understanding and keen perception

that you can sort out the truly

important matters. I pray too that you

may overflow with the goodness that

comes from following Christ, to God’s

credit and honor”. (verses 9-11).

Indeed I am thankful, humbled and

grateful for the opportunity to serve

with you in God’s movement and

mission called The International

Council of Community Churches.

I fully embrace and believe this is

a God called and God answered

movement. A movement needed today as much as it was needed in the 1950’s. We are in position to witness to a world a love and acceptance of each other through the grace of the risen Christ.

My friends, our ICCC provides many “tools” in making the witness happen in our local communities. During Annual Conference we experience worship and the hope it brings. We enjoy workshops, bible teaching, the work of organizations such as the National and World Council of Churches. We take these “tools” back home to our local community to share the possibilities of ministries.

We experience places where people in missions labor for the Lord and local churches can plug into. Support is provided for our pastor

such as available financial help with education. When a church is looking for a pastor the ICCC can provide help for the search committees.

So many “tools” are available to us. Our ICCC office has wonderful brochures that tell the stories of the ministries we provide. All of this to support the vision of this God inspired and needed movement: “To live the inclusive love of God that overcomes divisions. To work towards peace, justice, mercy and love.”

Join me in inviting others to our local churches to tell our stories as well as the stories of the ICCC. Indeed we are needed today to witness God’s Grace and inclusive love.

Glory!!!

As if a deadly pandemic wasn't enough, we now endure a political upheaval the likes of which we have never seen. Racial tensions still at an alarming high.

Will our churches survive the pandemic?Will our democracy survive the political turmoil?Will our society overcome racial animosity?

Maybe the line from a Pete Seeger song is need-ed still, "When will we ever learn...?"We would be at a loss, except for the hope of Calvary!!!I encourage you to pray that hope, speak that hope and live that hope in your world.If you don't believe it will make a difference, it won't.If you believe it will make a difference, it will.We can, we must be difference makers!!!

Preached any good sermons lately? “The Inclusive Pulpit” – an annual publication of the International Council of Community Churches – would love to hear from you and publish your sermon in our upcoming edition.

Challenged by a good sermon? “The Inclusive Pulpit” would love for you to recruit the preacher to submit that wonderful sermon for publication in our upcoming edition.

Inspired by any good reflections, poems or worship material? “The Inclusive Pulpit” welcomes those submissions as well.

Seasoned pastors, senior saints, new pastors, seminarians, youth group leaders? Help us celebrate the working of the Holy Spirit in the many ministries of the ICCC.

Please send your submission electron-ically to ICCCDC@sbcglobal.net by April 30th.

2021 Inclusive Pulpit Submissions

Welcome!

THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITYPage 2

Phil Tom

Executive Director’s Message

THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITYA Voice for

Ecumenical Congregations (ISSN - 0145-3297)

A periodical of news, reviews, and reflections for ecumenically oriented and community-minded churches, ministry centers, and clergy.

Published Oct., Nov., Dec., Feb., Mar., Apr., May, June by the International Council of Community Churches. Home Office: P.O. Box 846, Longmont, CO 80502. Subscription rate: $12.00 per year.

Editors: Phil Tom, DeAnn AnzaldiCirculation: DeAnn Anzaldi

Telephone: 815/464-5690

E-Mail: ICCCNOW@sbcglobal.net Website: www.ICCCNOW.org

I am a fan of jazz. During the past few months, I watched films of jazz legends such as Miles Davis III. Miles Davis was an American jazz trumpeter, bandleader, and composer. He is among the most influential and acclaimed figures in the history of jazz and the 20th century. During a five-decade career, Miles Davis adapted to the changing music taste of the American public. He adopted various musical styles that kept him at the forefront of many major stylistic developments in jazz (Wikipedia). Miles Davis’ range of music went from classical to jazz, bop, rock, funk African rhythms, and electronic music technology. Every time Miles Davis thought his music was falling out of favor, he adapted to the new sound to connect to a new audience and emerge back out front in the music world.

As I watched this Netflix film about Miles Davis, I thought about the Church and how many congrega-tions have failed to adapt to our changing environment. These con-gregations wonder why no one is attending their worship services or joining their congregation.

In dealing with the pandemic this past year, it pushed many members and congregations to move into the technology age in learning how to use Zoom, Youtube, live streaming, and other means of social media. Yet, there are still members who resisted this move to utilize social media. The pandemic may have changed how we may interact with one another at work, our communities, and the Church in the future. Some congregations are imagining being a virtual church and not having a physical home!

We still have a message that does not change, and that is true yesterday, today, and tomorrow! God sent Jesus Christ into the world to save us, redeem us, and reconcile us with God! This core message never changes! As congregations and as the Community Church movement, the challenge before us is how do we adapt to our changing culture to get God’s good news across to our neighbors and the public to hear it and receive it?

As we move into the new year, into a new way of living post-Covid,

may we continue to be open to God’s Holy Spirit to guide us as we continue to imagine new ways to share God’s Good News, in Word and action!

We would like to extend a big THANK YOU for your gracious and generous love gifts given to us during the holiday season.

We truly appreciate your support of us and the ICCC.

We wish you and your families a blessed, safe and healthy 2021!

February 2021

THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY Page 3

By Rev. Kenneth N. Nelson

2021 ICCC

Encouraging Our Hope (Romans 15:4)The 2021 Black History Month promises to be one of the most engaging months

of our history. This month we focus on some of the most definitive books of our era.

CLASSIC BLACK HISTORY REREADSEssays and books by Frederick Douglas, W.E.B. Dubois, Booker T. Washing-ton, Carter G. Woodson, Gwendolyn Brooks, James Baldwin, and Toni Morri-son produce literature that engages the character of our souls.

Our Black History authors prepare narratives on how disregarded people become what they have always been—human beings. Douglas speaks from the slave to the states-person experience: “Power concedes nothing without a demand. It never did and it never will. Find out just what any people will quietly submit to and you have found out the exact measure of injustice and wrong which will be imposed

upon them, and these will continue till they are resisted with either words or blows, or with both. The limits of tyrants are prescribed by the endurance of those whom they oppress.”

DuBois and Washington debate two paths to progress: one conciliatory, and the other direct protest. They both attempt to overcome the policies and practice of injustice and racism. In the DuBois and Washington legacy, Woodson establishes the idea of Black History Week and reminds us about a critical lesson in education and equality: “The oppressor has always indoctrinated the weak with his interpretation of the crimes of the strong.”

Other literary champions command our attention with their words. Brooks reveals, “My Poem is life, and not finished. /It shall never be finished. /My Poem is life, and can grow.” Baldwin argues passionately, “Please try to re-member that what they believe, as well as what they do and cause you to endure does not testify to your inferiority but to their inhumanity.” Morrison explains, “At some point in life the world’s beauty becomes enough. You don’t need to photograph, paint, or even remember it. It is enough.” These books, essays, poetry, and novels are excellent resources for understanding who we are and want we can become.

CONTEMPORARY BLACK HISTORY READINGSOur contemporary Black History authors represent new and enduring thoughts about our future. Eight works of literature and film portray a new understanding of the past and hope for our future.

Four authors—Wilkerson, Houston, Peck, and Glaude—argue for new meaning from those in the past. In Caste, Wilkerson asserts, “Slav-ery was not merely an unfortunate thing that happened to black people. It was an American innovation, and American institution created by and for the benefit of the elites of the dominant caste and enforced by poorer members of the dominant caste who tied their lot to the caste system rather than to their consciences.” Us-ing her impressive journalist skills, Karen Gray Houston provides a behind the scenes story about the Civil Rights Movement in Daughter of the Boycott. According to one reader, Hous-

ton provides “A history lesson about a very dark period in our nation balanced with events of victory, pride, and joy. A must read! Oscar-Nominated Haitian filmmaker Raoul Peck’s I am Not Your Negro examines James Baldwin’s life and race relations in the United States. On the other hand, Princeton Professor Eddie S. Glaude Jr. engages the mind of Baldwin again in his Begin Again: James Baldwin’s America and Its Urgent Lessons for Our Own. Glaude con-tends, “thirty years after Baldwin’s death we are still wrestling with the fact that so many Americans continue to hold the view that ours is a white nation.”

Our last four authors may seem strange on a Black History discussion. But they are repre-senting the contextual themes of the critical arguments for freedom in our history and fu-ture. In 1964, Robert Penn Warren, Pulitzer Prize-winning author, and poet interviewed and recorded various leaders and people during the Civil Rights Movements in his book Free All Along: The Robert Penn Warren Civil Rights In-terviews. “This book is valuable as both a type of history book in that it captures these leaders’ opinions at that point and also as a book to help us move the fight forward by listening to what they thought in 1964…” notes one reader. Before the Mayflower: A History of Black Amer-ica by Lerone Bennett Jr. is a classic book. The

last two books compare what America aspires to be and what is. Ray Rapha-el’s The U.S. Constitution: Explained--Clause by Clause--For Every American Today aids everyone interested in what the Constitution means. Alexis de Toc-queville’s Democracy in America declares “Nothing is more wonderful than the art of being free, but nothing is harder to learn how to use than freedom,” and “Liberty cannot be established without morality, nor morality without faith.”

SHARE YOUR COMMENTS. Remember, please share your thoughts at ICCCNOW@sbcglobal.net by the end of the month. And let us know if we have your permission to quote or paraphrase your comments. Thank you for your feedback, and have a blessed month!

February 2021

THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITYPage 4 February 2021

Conference Noteby Jerry Brown, VP for Planning

Is anyone sorry to see the end of 2020?

We can all look forward to better things in 2021; that certainly includes our next Annual Conference in Dublin, Ohio. COVID has been an anomaly; disrupting and turning our lives upside-down. But a promising end appears to be in sight. With that in mind, and with God’s help, we can get on with our lives.

And so, we continue to plan our Annual Conference for our 71st Anniversary. We have a great Bible Study leader, theologian, and evangelist (see information on Dr Payne in this newsletter), as well as helpful and informative workshops.

Of course, we will have the opportunity to worship together with inspirational preaching, music, and joy. We will share Holy Communion, experience God’s love, and celebrate God’s promise of agape together. And on Thursday afternoon we will have the opportunity to participate in an intergenerational, community mission project with Rise Against Hunger. Some of the greatest, lasting relationships are conceived and grow while working together to help others.

And the location could not be better. The Embassy Suites Hotel is an outstanding venue with spacious rooms, a fantastic, full breakfast every morning, and manager’s reception each evening. It is a comfortable hotel with a welcoming, accommodating staff and resources to make this a wonderfully enjoyable conference.

It’s going to be a great week, in a great community, with some really great people (that includes you). We look forward to greeting old friends, making new ones, and celebrating God’s love through Jesus Christ. The best part is that we will be together once again.

We can’t wait to welcome you to Dublin!

What’s Your ROIBy Jerry Brown, VP Conference Planning

THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITYPage 4 December 2019

‘Tis the SeasonSubmitted by Dr. Connee Fitch-Blanks

ICCC WCF President

Christmas is fast approaching. Aswe prepare to celebrate the anniversary of the birthday our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, let us give first of ourselves as God did. His gift of love is the ultimate token of kindness that has since not been measured. Of course, many will also extend and welcome a more tangible show of your love. It is along that thought that I make this small appeal for a token of kindness for those needing a little love at this time of the year.

I ask that you join the Woman’s Christian Fellowship of the ICCC as we collect small denomination ($5, $10, $20) gift cards to be distributed to a local Women/children shelter in the Dublin, Ohio area during our July 2020 conference. Research has documented that showing others kindness is as good for the givers body as it is for their soul. Enjoy a mini-spa moment as you enjoying giving a token of love and kindness this holiday season. Merry Christmas to all!

Gift cards can be forwarded to the ICCC office in care of the Women’s Christian Fellowship.

Anyone who is investing or saving for retirement is look-ing for a good place to put their savings; somewhere that their money is secure and their investment will grow. They want a good Return On Investment.

If you put so much effort into your retirement so that you can be comfortable after you stop working full-time, shouldn’t you put at least that much effort into your eternal retirement so that you can be comfortable after you stop inhaling full-time?

On a serious note, we on the Planning Committee realize that you invest a week of your time, as well as a significant financial resources, in order to attend our annual conference. We take seriously our responsibility to prepare and provide you a great conference worthy of your investment. We spend a lot of time seeking out great speakers, coordinating informative workshops, and obtaining the best venue. And next summer is a perfect example.

We have wonderful workshops lined-up for you. We are confirming an outstand-ing Bible Study leader. In the past we’ve had requests for a mission opportunity that everyone can share. Wait until you see the group mission opportunity that we have planned for you next summer, one in which everyone can participate. It will be fun, fulfilling, and functional; right there in the hotel. We don’t want you to miss a minute of inspiration or an opportunity to grow in your faith

And you couldn’t ask for a better bargain than our hotel. Every room is a two-room suite, so you can bring the whole family (or even better, bring a friend to share this experience with you). And the full breakfast every morning is a great way to start each day. At conferences in years past, I’ve paid $25 for a comparable breakfast.In reviewing last year’s evaluation forms, I read a comment from a first-time attendee. They wrote, “I wish we could bottle the all-encompassing sense of love and acceptance and unity, for us to pour over all we meet!” What a great compliment for our conference, what an insightful evaluation of our Council, and what an inspirational invitation to join us in Dublin, OH.

We want you to leave the conference in Dublin next July convinced that you received a good Return On Investment; your time and money were well-spent. What’s your Eternal ROI? Shouldn’t the next ICCC Annual Conference be in your Heavenly Investment Portfolio?

Heaven... The ultimate

Return On Investment

Annual Conference Sponsorship

Opportunities

“As people devoted to following Christ we are committed to

community, to treasuring diversity,to living our faith in service and love.”

The International Council of Comm-unity Churches is grateful for your empowerment in the community church movement. Your business, professional association, labor union, service group, etc. may invest in the cause of furthering Christian unity by providing a sponsorship in the Annual Conference. We have listed several possibilities below. If you wish to explore other potential opportunities for sponsorship including exclusive sponsorship of a segment of the Conference program, please let us know. Conference sponsorship opportunities begin at $1000.

General conference sponsorship ... $1000

Bible Study – multiple plenary sessions ........................................... $2500

Prayer Room .................................... $1500

Clergy continuing education event $3000

Fellowship luncheon ....................... $1500

All-Conference Banquet .................. $2000

Full Day Sponsorship ...................... $5000 The International Council of Communi-ty Churches is a 501(c)3 organization under IRS regulations. All sponsor-ships are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law and your tax situation. Contact the Council Office for details or visit our website: https://www.iccc-now.org/sponsorship/

THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITYFebruary 2021 Page 5

THE HARLAN AND WILMA HOLLEWELL PROFESSOR OF EVANGELISM AND WORLD MISSIONS; DIRECTOR OF CHAPLAINCY STUDIES – ASHLAND UNIVERSITY

We are pleased and excited to have Rev. Dr. William Payne as our Bible Study Lecturer this summer!

Dr. Bill Payne is a natural evangelist, a seasoned pastor, and a gifted professor. Since he believes that teaching is a spiritual gift, he invites the Holy Spirit to come into his classes at Ashland Theological Seminary. During many class sessions, he has clearly sensed the Lord’s thick presence. At times, a class devotion has turned into a spontaneous outpouring of the Spirit, shaking things up in ways that only God can. We look forward to this experience in July!

Dr. Payne is not only a professor; his 29.5 years of service with the Navy and Marine Corps has provided him with ministry opportunities in 27 countries. Before retiring, he served as the Deputy Force Chaplain in Iraq and the Military Sealift Command Chaplain in San Diego. Additionally, he pastored a Cuban refugee camp in Panama, served as the community manager for all Reserve Force chaplains, worked as a hospital chaplain, commanded a unit of 17 chaplains and enlisted specialists, and deployed from Okinawa during Desert Storm. He has a military subspecialty code in religion and culture and is a Fleet Marine Force Qualified Officer (FMFQO).

Dr. Payne graduated from Asbury Theological Seminary (PhD Intercultural Studies), Emory University (M.Div.), and Florida Southern College (BA Religion). He is ordained in the United Methodist Church and is a full member of the Florida Conference. He has served the local church as a student pastor, associate pastor, pastor, senior pastor, and interim pastor. During his last pastorate, he planted a large Hispanic ministry that included satellite outposts throughout Tampa Bay.

In addition to expertise in evangelism, world missions, and chaplaincy, Dr. Payne has published widely on early American Methodism, Latin American Pentecostalism, folk religion, and spiritual warfare. He especially enjoys preaching, consulting with churches, and doing inner healing. He developed and directs the chaplaincy study degrees at Ashland Theological Seminary.

Dr. Payne will certainly inspire and challenge us to answer God’s call (Whom shall we send, and who will go for us?) and respond to God’s direction for our churches and our lives this summer. Please plan to join us!

2021 Annual Conference Bible Study Lecturer: Rev. Dr. William P. Payne

Let Us Lift Up Prayers for:• Lonnie Miller and her family as they mourn

the death of Rev. Ron Miller, her husband. Rev. Miller brought Wilson Memorial Union Church, Watchung, NJ, as their Senior Pas-tor, into the ICCC. He served on the ICCC Board of Directors from 1988 to 1994, was President of the Board from 1995 to 1997, and kept many other ICCC roles. He also served on the Governing Board of the Na-tional Council of Churches. In addition, he represented the ICCC as a delegate to the World Council of Churches Assembly in Australia, which gathers every 10 years. Visit https://higginsfuneralhome.com/tribute/details/3986/Rev-J-Miller/obituary.html#trib-ute-start to read Ron’s full obituary and pay tribute to his legacy.

• Bob and Nancy Steele, Peace Community Church, FL as they grieve the loss of their daughter, April Neitzey. April passed away December 11, 2020, after years of health struggles. “While we grieve with those who loved her most, we can, at the same time, rejoice in the knowledge that she is still in the hands of our loving God and that she is free from pain and suffering.” ~ Rev. RC Flee-man, Senior Pastor.

• Rev. Clarence Adams, ICCC California Fellowship President, as he faces health challenges. Rev. Adams was recovering and in rehab, when he had a setback that put him back in the hospital for 2 weeks. He is now again in rehab and we pray he is healing quickly.

• Barb McNelly and her family, with the pass-ing of her husband Dave McNelly, Peace Community Church, FL. Dave passed on December 31, 2020, after fighting cancer and other ailments. Please pray for Barb, her children and grandchildren.

• Please continue to keep the following in your prayers as they face health challenges:

Rev. Dr. Sharyon Cosey, ICCC Regional Trustee

Christ Foockle, son of ICCC President Harry Foockle

Mike Donahue, ICCC VP for Informational and Outreach Services

Elder Harry Foockle, ICCC President

71st Annual ConferenceJuly 19-22, 2021 – Dublin, OH

Hotel InformationThe 2021 Annual Conference will be held at the Embas-sy Suites Hotel, 5100 Upper Metro Place, Dublin, OH 43017. Phone: 614-790-9000. Centrally located to a variety of Columbus-Dublin activities, this renovated Embassy Suites hotel is close to a number of attractions including golfing, shopping, sports team venues and the Columbus Zoo, one of the oldest and largest zoos in the country.

At Embassy Suites Hotels every room is a two-room suite perfect to spread out and relax. The private bedroom boasts luxurious Sweet Dreams bedding, while the separate living area has a sofa bed, wet bar, microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, and internet access. There is a TV in both rooms and more than enough room for your family, work or both. Enjoy amenities such as a 24-hour fitness center, an indoor pool, a spa tub, free Wi-Fi, a business center, concierge services & gift shops/newsstands. Wake up each morning to a free made-to-order breakfast and unwind at the hotel’s evening reception with drinks and snacks.

Hotel DiningE’terie: Guests looking for a quick bite at any hour have an efficient solution at E’terie near the front desk: neatly packaged salads, daily fresh-made sandwiches, in addition to a variety of snacks and beverages. The E’terie also features Starbucks and retail items from local artisans.

Urban Craft: Urban Craft is a casual yet hip dining and lounging destination, featuring innovative American favorites with a regional flair and a focus on fresh ingredients. Open Mon-Sat 4pm-11pm and Sunday 5:30pm-10pm.

Room Service is also available, along with eating options within walking distance of the hotel.

Hotel ReservationsTo attend, call the Embassy Suites to reserve your room at 800-220-9219. Inform the reservations clerk that you are attending the 2021 ICCC Annual Conference to get the special rate of $129.00* + tax per night. The cut-off date for hotel reservations is June 18, 2021. After this date, normal hotel rates will be in effect and space may no longer be available. *Please note: the special rate of $129 + tax for a standard king suite ($134.00 + tax for a standard double suite) is negotiated only for conferees. Those utilizing this special rate are expected to register for the conference.

Check-in: 4:00pm

Check-Out: 11:00pm

To register online, visit https://embassysuites.hilton.com/en/es/groups/personalized/C/CMHESES-IC2-20210716/index.jhtml?WT.mc_id=POG

Visit www.embassysuites.com for all hotel information.

Transportation To and From the Hotel Port Columbus International Airport has several options for transportation to the hotel. You can call the Embassy Suites for information on bus and super shuttle services. For airport information, visit their website: http://flycolumbus.com/ or call 614-239-4000.Dublin Taxi is a recommendation of the hotel. The cost is approx. $40 one-way. Dublin Taxi can be called when you get to Baggage Claim at the airport, and a Front Desk Team Member can assist with arrangements to the airport. Dublin Taxi can be reached at 614-759-9999.

FREE self-parking is available at the hotel, if you are driving or renting a car.

THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITYPage 6 February 2021

THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITYFebruary 2021 Page 7

The Historic People’s Community Church (PCC) fosters a tradition of being a singing, praying, tithing, teaching, serving, and loving church, and is guided by one of its golden text ‘I am come that they might have life and that they may have it more abundantly.’ – John 10:10.

This Historic Church, a member of the International Council of Community Churches (ICCC) and located in the vibrant city of Detroit, Michigan is currently seeking an experienced Senior Minister to be the Spiritual Leader of its Congregation.

The Senior Minister is responsible for leading and moving the Congregation toward the fulfillment of God’s mission for PCC. The Senior Minister will have an unwavering faith and a firm relationship with Jesus Christ and is dedicated to cultivating others in Christ.

For complete information visit http://www.icccnow.org/careers/ or contact People’s Community Church office (313) 871-4676.

The Church at Litchfield Park, a historic and dynamic independent community church located in a beautiful resort community west of Phoenix, is searching for an Associate Pastor to join our wonderful team.

Required qualifications include having a theological degree from an accredited institution, being ordained in a recognized Christian denomination, having a servant’s heart, being willing to minister to all people without discrimination, the ability to work well in a multi-denominational/generational setting, and the ability to lead and guide others.

Specific areas of ministry will include providing a safe and nurturing environment for middle and high school youth, coordinating and leading annual youth mission trips, connecting with post-high young adults, overseeing all-church fellowship, providing counseling & support, some teaching, and occasional preaching.

Known as a House of Prayer for All People, we strive to love and serve ALL people through Christ. Qualified candidates should e-mail a resume and cover letter to: info@clp.church with Associate Pastor in the subject line.

. Senior Minister

Associate Pastor

The new mailing address for the ICCC is:

P.O. BOX 846 LONGMONT, CO. 80502

Mail sent to the Frankfort address will be forwarded for a short time.

The Council Office phone number remains the same:

815-464-5690

Conference Youth ScholarshipIf you know a teen who would like to attend the conference in Dublin, but needs some financial assistance, we have a plan. We have scholarship assistance available to pay for the reg-istration fee of a Youth attendee. To apply for the scholarship, the following procedure will be used:

The scholarship is open to any Youth attendee (entering grade 7 through 12) and cov-ers the regular registration fee and Fellowship Luncheon.

Pastors from any member church may submit their confidential nom-ination for the award with a letter of recom-mendation introducing the candidate and explaining why they would like this person to receive the scholarship.

The submissions will be reviewed and presented to the ICCC Board of Directors for approval.

Nominations must be submitted for review no later than April 30, 2021. They should be sent to the Council Office at PO Box 846, Long-mont, CO 80502, attn: Youth Scholarship. Or email to ICCCNOW@sbcglobal.net.

The ICCC President will communicate the board’s decision to the recommend-ing pastor to notify the recipi-ent. The decision will also be announced in the June issue of the Christian Community. The winning recipient would be notified soon after the April 30th deadline.

COLORADO

THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITYPage 8 February 2021

ä ä ä äää

Fill in Dollar Amount for this Registration

meals not included

2021 Annual Conference: July 19-22“Send Us”

Dublin, Ohio

Name (as you would like it on badge) _______________________________________________________________________________________________

Street Address __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

City, State, Zip ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Telephone (______)_________________________________________________ E-mail Address: _______________________________________________

Emergency Contact Name_________________________________________________Phone __________________________________________________

Church (member of) ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

First Conference: Yes r No r         Status: r Clergy  r Laity

FOR THE ELEMENTARY AND YOUTH PROGRAMS ONLY!

Age (on 7-1-2021) _______________ Grade completed by (7-1-2021) ______________

If under 18, an adult who is registered for the Conference and who will serve as a sponsor and assume responsibility for said young person must sign below:

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Sponsor Signature Print Sponsor Name

CONFERENCE FEES

Infants (not occupying chair at banquet) $ 0.00 $

Child* with Kid’s Meal (Ages 1-5) $ 35.00 $

Elementary* with Kid’s Meal (entering kindergarten - entering 6th grade) $ 60.00 $

**Add-on ONLY if Adult meal is preferred for Child/Elementary regis. $ 30.00 $

Youth (completed 6th grade - entering 12th grade) $ 145.00 $

Young Adult (completed 12th grade - age 23) $ 170.00 $

Adult Register by June 1, 2021 - Early Bird Special $195.00 $ 230.00 $

Daily Registrants Circle Day(s) M T W Th $ 40.00/day $

CC TOTAL ENCLOSED $

A Banquet ticket is included in your registration fee. This meal includes: Mixed Greens with Fresh Mozzarella, Grape Toma-toes and Balsamic Dressing, Grilled Bone-In Pork Chop with Bourbon BBQ, Herb Roasted Yukon Potatoes, Blue Lake Beans, Strawberry Shortcake, Coffee, Hot Tea and Iced Tea. Fish Option: Grilled Fresh Salmon with Citrus Butter *Kid’s Meal Option: Cheeseburger, French Fries, Lemonade and Cookie. Meals are subject to change.

Please circle one of the following for your preference at Thursday’s Banquet Dinner.

Pork Chop (Default Option) Fish Option Kid’s Meal Option

**Child & Elementary registrations include the Kid’s Meal option. If the adult meal is preferred, please add $30.00 to your total enclosed.

Please return this form with payment to: ICCC, PO Box 846, Longmont, CO 80502

      r Check or Money Order made payable to ICCC r VISA r MASTERCARD r AMEX r DISCOVER

Acct. #:_______________________________________________________-____________________ Exp. Date:_____________________ CVV: __________

Print name as it appears on card:_________________________________________________Signature _________________________________________

One form per person. Early Bird registration must be received in the office by June 1st. Registrations after June 20, 2021 will be accepted at Conference only.

CANCELLATIONS: A $25 administration fee will be assessed for each.

ANNUAL CONFERENCE SESSIONS MAY BE VIDEOTAPED or placed on Social Media. I agree the ICCC may use my image, name, voice and story in any medium or format, throughout the world forever, free-of-charge, and for any reasonable purpose in furtherance of its mission.

THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITYFebruary 2021 Page 9

2021 Conference Meal Programs The 2021 Annual Conference offers 2 optional meal program opportunities: the Fellowship Luncheon and the Prayer Luncheon hosted by the Women’s Christian Fellowship. The Conference Banquet Dinner is included in your registration fee** (Additional quantities can be reserved for a fee). You can visit our website ICCCNOW.org to see a brief description of the meal program, or watch for details in upcoming issues of the Christian Community.

Monday, July 19, 2021 at 12:00pm is the Fellowship Luncheon. This meal includes Sliced Turkey, Honey Ham, Applewood Bacon, Lettuce and Tomato on Multi Grain Bread, Pasta Salad, Potato Chips, Coffee, Hot Tea, Iced Tea and Brownie Bites. Vegetarian Option: Roasted Vegetable Wrap Kid’s Meal Option: Cheese Pizza, French Fries and Fruit Punch.

Wednesday, July 21, 2021 at 12:00pm is the Prayer Luncheon. This meal includes Garden Salad, Chicken Piccata, Wild Rice Pilaf, Broccoli Crowns, Classic Cheesecake, Coffee, Tea and Iced Tea. Fish Option (Add $2.00): Blackened Tilapia. Kid’s Meal Option: Chicken Tenders, Applesauce and Fruit Juice.

Thursday, July 22, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. is the Conference Banquet*. This meal includes: Mixed Greens with Fresh Mozzarella, Grape Tomatoes and Balsamic Dressing, Grilled Bone-In Pork Chop with Bourbon BBQ, Herb Roasted Yukon Potatoes, Blue Lake Beans, Strawberry Shortcake, Coffee, Hot Tea and Iced Tea. Fish Option: Grilled Fresh Salmon with Citrus Butter Kid’s Meal Option: Cheeseburger, French Fries, Lemonade and Cookie.

All meals are subject to change.

- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

2021 MEAL RESERVATION FORM Mail this form & payment to: ICCC, PO Box 846, Longmont, CO 80502

Name: ____________________________________________________________________________________________

Please reserve ___________ places at $29.00 each for Monday’s Fellowship Luncheon r Check for Vegetarian Option r Check for Kid's Meal Option $18.00

Please reserve ___________ places at $32.00 each for Wednesday's Prayer Luncheon r Check for Fish Option (add $2.00) r Check for Kid's Meal Option $18.00

*Please reserve_______ add’l places at $52.00 each for Thursday’s Banquet Dinner

                           r Pork Chop r Fish

*Please reserve _______ add’l places at $20.00 each for children under 12yrs.*A Banquet ticket is already included in registration. Order only if additional tickets are needed.

Total Enclosed $_____________

If paying by check: make check payable to: International Council of Community Churches (ICCC)

If paying by credit card:  r VISA r MASTERCARD r AMERICAN EXPRESS r DISCOVER

Account Number on Card:___________________________________________________ Expiration Date:_______________ CVV: _______________________

Print name as it appears on card: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Signature: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Deadline for meal function reservations is June 25th. There will only be a VERY LIMITED supply of tickets available at Conference registration, so please purchase your tickets before the deadline. After the June 20th deadline meal reservations will not be accepted in the Council Office. *The Conference Banquet is included in the registration fee. You do not need to reserve a ticket for this meal, unless you require additional tickets. Kids 12 yrs & under will automatically receive the kid’s meal at the Conference Banquet, unless an Adult Meal upgrade is purchased.

THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITYPage 10 February 2021THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY Page 7April 2020 THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY Page 7April 2020

INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL OF COMMUNITY CHURCHES

Annual Conference Program Book/Church Directory Ad Space

Indicate below the ad size you will submit:

WIDTH HEIGHT PAGE SIZE COST

______ 8” x 11” Full $200.00

______ 8” x 5.5” One Half 110.00

______ 4” x 5” One Quarter 60.00

NAME: __________________________________________________________

ORGANIZATION: _________________________________________________

ADDRESS:_______________________________________________________

CITY/STATE/ZIP:__________________________________________________

PHONE: ( ) _______________________ FAX: ( ) _____________________

E-MAIL:___________________________

Mail this completed form along with your ad and payment to: International Council of Community Churches

PO Box 534, Longmont, CO 80502 Or email to ICCC60423@sbcglobal.net (must be paid by credit/debit card)

□ Check or Money Order made payable to ICCC

□ VISA □ MASTERCARD □ AMERICAN EXPRESS □ DISCOVER

Acct.# ______________________________ Exp. Date_________ CVV: ____________

Print name as it appears on card:_________________________________________________

Signature of card holder:________________________________________________________

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION: May 31, 2021

PLEASE MAKE SURE YOUR AD IS CAMERA-READY (THE AD WILL GO IN BOOK AS IS). THE COUNCIL CANNOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR DESIGNING ADS.