Online Marriage Prep!

I get an amazing number of press releases every day. Some are pertinent to the work I do for the UCC, some are loony and some are just funny/interesting. I received one today that was on the funny/interesting - sort of sad - side of things. A little of my own sarcasm is inserted below, so be forewarned...

You say you're too busy to attend a traditional marriage preparation course?

Say you value your privacy and don't want a professional prying into all the neurosis that are sure to sabotage this and all future relationships?

Then the good folks at theMarriageGroup have a great program for you.

No need to worry if you and your future mate have and overbooked double-carreer, see you when it's convenient for me, lifestyle - you can complete this marriage preparation course in the privacy of your own home. There's no need for your (might-be-)special(-when-I-find-the-time) someone to be in the same room with you.

Of course, honest discussion between you and your partner is the cornerstone of the program - but there's no need to air any misgivings or acknowledge shortcomings in front of a total stranger! What good would that do anyway?

Evangelism - Monster Truck style

This unique door hanger found its way into our offices. What was the big draw of this past weekend's Anniversary Sunday service, you ask?

Palm Sunday? The beginning of Holy Week? The cries of "Hosanna" preceding "crucify"?

None of the above...

Bible preaching, great gospel music and a MONSTER TRUCK EXHIBITION.

"If the people are silent, the monster trucks will shout out praises." (Luke 19:40, paraphrased...)

Immigration Reform Rally

Immigration Reform Rally from United Church of Christ on Vimeo.

Immigration Reform Rally in Washington D.C. on March 21, 2010. Over 200,000 people rallied on the National Mall to urge President Obama to take up the issue of immigration reform as his next legislative priority. Many faith groups were present to urge for more humane treatment of migrants and to protect the unity of families. UCNews was covering the rally in conjunction with Ecumenical Advocacy Days held in the capitol the same weekend.

Video and production Gregg Brekke

This one's for the ladies...

Thanks to the efforts of many in the ecumenical community, there is a day set aside to highlight the need for gender equality, human rights and empowerment as it relates to women.

Church World Service has a great story on their efforts and there are lots of other resources on the web as well.

Given the importance of women in everyone's life (you have a mother, right?) it's good to be reminded that many women suffer injustices simply because they are women.

Speaking of women - happy birthday Melissa (my sister!)