ITLOTC 10-25-2022

Returning to Peru (by Kirk)

In the fall of 2005, I went on my first trip to Collique, Peru, a small area outside of the capital city, Lima, at the base of the Andes Mountains. I did not know that I would fall in love with a place and a people so very quickly. I had been to other third world country places, but nothing like this. The people come from the mountains, trying to fight their way to Lima, but stop in this place because they cannot go any farther. They may work in Lima, if they work, but more than likely, they weren't able to afford going any farther.

They find a plot of land, and claim it, and begin to build a house out of whatever materials they can find: cardboard, wood, sticks, newspaper, etc. Over the years, the construction has become more stable with bricks or concrete. Where there used to be no streetlights, there are lights. Where none of the roads were paved, they are now paved. Some things have changed, but other things have remained the same.

Operación San Andrés (OSA) began in 2003, founded out of a Sunday School class at a church in Houston. Each year, OSA leads two medical/dental trips to Collique, serving the locals there to improve their overall living conditions. These trips occur every six months, with the possibility of telemedicine in between trips with some of our regular doctors who serve, allowing some patients to have 30 or 60 days follow up appointments. This year we had two Peruvian dentists join us, and they began work very early each day and served many patients throughout the week.

The trip this year was OSA's first since October 2019 due to COVID. After three years, pulling up to the area on our bus felt like a trip home. I saw old friends, made new friends, all in the name of making their lives better in our little way. We love Peru for a number of reasons, but one of the greatest reasons is in the photos above this paragraph. The young girl, Anne, that I met in 2007, has been my Peruvian 'daughter' since I met her. Each year we would take a photo together, including this one after three years of not seeing each other. Her English has gotten so much better - my Spanish is still 'muy mal.' The second pitcher is of Anne as a 22 year old mother of Thiago, her son who was born during the pandemic. This was my first chance to meet him and to see her with him. She's going to be a wonderful mother.

I love missions for a variety of reasons: a chance to look beyond myself, travel, the sense that what I'm doing matters...and while all these things are true, ultimately, this trip for me was a bit of a family reunion. I'm forever grateful for the opportunity to go.

Update Your Mailing Address 📬

We’re asking everyone to please share their current address so we can send you things like your annual giving statement, information about our fundraising efforts, and other important information from UBC. You can update your address at this link: https://ubcwaco.churchcenter.com/people/forms/450248

Share Your Feedback 📣

You’re invited to share your feedback (good, bad, or in-between) about the goings-on at UBC! All comments will be shared directly with the UBC Human Resources team who will then share it with Leadership Team, Finance Team, or Pastoral Staff as needed. Share your feedback here: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

This week is our Halloween Party Extravaganza with 5th/6th Grade and Youth! We'll all be having a costume competition (so costumes are naturally VERY encouraged!!), eating together, there will be lots of candy (sorry in advance!), and we'll also have some various fun Disney and other age-appropriate (e.g. PG!) Halloween content to watch, along with space to just hang out for those wanting a more social second half of their evening!

We will meet at the zoo’s front entrance at 9am, just look for Jamie. The zoo is hosting a Halloween scavenger hunt, and costumes are encouraged but not required. Hopefully this will be a time where you can get to know some other families at UBC, and your kids can enjoy the scavenger hunt the zoo is putting on. If you have any questions, please email jamie@ubcwaco.org. Have a booootiful time this weekend!

Coffee with Kieran - Saturday, 1:00 pm at Pinewood

Giving

We’re so grateful for the contributions that have helped make this a month where giving has exceeded our planned expenses! Although we still have a deficit to make up, this month’s giving moves us in the right direction to offset our precarious finances. As always, we hope UBC is a place you care about and benefit from. If you value UBC and want it to stick around, please consider giving as you are able. You can set up one-time or recurring online giving here.

Youth Volunteers

Volunteers are a critical part of UBC’s Youth Group - it’s no exaggeration to say that it literally would not run without them. We’re in need of volunteers to engage with the kids, particularly at our Wednesday night meetings, and to make sure everyone is safe. There is also plenty of room to use specific skills or experience you might have - whether that’s leading lessons, running games, or something else entirely! For more information click this link and/or email kieran@ubcwaco.org.

Youth Dinner

If you’d like to get involved with the Youth Group but can’t volunteer on Wednesday nights you can sign-up to provide youth dinner (cooked, bought, or otherwise!) instead. Sign up for that here and Kieran will reach out to you at the beginning of the week you sign up for to arrange details.

Children’s Ministry

Want to serve with UBC Kids but can’t but can’t say yes to a once/month commitment? We’d love to add you to our list of dedicated subs who can step in from time to time. Email brooke@ubcwaco.org to sign up.

All Saints Liturgy - Tuesday, November 1st at 5:30pm

Fall Fire Chill - Friday, November 4th at 7pm

It is starting to feel like Fall, and nothing says fall more than friends, fire, and s’mores. Please come join us at the Dodson’s house on Friday, November 4th. This is not a dinner party, but we will be have all the fixins needed to make s’mores. UBC will also provide some bottled water, so if you want another beverage, please bring it. You can sign up on Sunday morning, or email Toph. If you have any questions, email toph@ubcwaco.org.

Belief & Belonging Festival - Saturday, November 5th

UBC is hosting Waco's first TEDx-style event! The Belief & Belonging Festival will feature local and national speakers and performers (like our very own Jamie McGregor!) exploring ideas around how what we believe, once believed, and/or are trying to believe impacts when/where, and how we belong or once belonged. Virtual tickets are also available with access to both the livestream and a 72-replay option. Use this code ubchome at checkout and receive $10 off General Admission tickets!

For more information or ticketing, visit the Eventbrite page, Instagram or Facebook. You can also contact, Sharyl West Loeung at sharylwl@gmail.com.

Youth Games Afternoon - Saturday, November 5th at 1pm

ubc[creatives] meetup - Sunday, November 6th at 2pm

Join us for our second gathering of ubc[creatives]. We will be bringing together some art that we have made and talking about our processes. If you'd like to create around the prompt offered at the first meeting, just email jamie@ubcwaco.org for details.

LGBTQIA+ and Allies Meetup - Friday, November 11th at 6:30pm

Women's Group-Hangout - Friday, November 11th at 7pm

Thanksgiving Lovefeast - Sunday, November 13th at 5:30pm

UBC Families Meetup-Mini Golf - Monday, November 14th, 5-7pm

Post-Thanksgiving Evening Service - Sunday, November 27th at 6pm

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often!

Parishioner of the Week

The parishioners of the week are the volunteers who stayed to help with childcare for our Kids & Youth Formation conversation on Sunday, as well as everyone who participated in the conversation. Thank you for serving and sharing!

Preaching Schedule

10/23: Craig
10/30: Kieran
11/6:Kirk
11/13: Listening to Our Congregation: LGBTQ Folks
11/20: Christ the King Sunday
11/27: Kirk
12/4: Kirk
12/11: Ryan Miller
12/18: Patrick Broaddus
12/25: Special Christmas Stream (Online Only)
1/1: Brunch Church!

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Jose Zuniga (jzgrphix2002@yahoo.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)
Marcus Franklin (M_Franklin@baylor.edu)
Shelly Taylor (Shellytaylor76@gmail.com)
Katie Robinson (katiekrobinson@yahoo.com)
Margo Shanks (Margo_Shanks@baylor.edu)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)
Ethan Cohen (ethancohen002@gmail.com)

ITLOTC 10-18-2022

Meet Jeff Lewis - UBC’s Office Manager

First and foremost, I would like to introduce myself. I am a dad of a wonderful 6 year old kiddo, Cal, who is filled with energy and life. It's always a pleasure to hear his laughs and giggles and listen to his multiple stories of shenanigans. Along with our wonderful kiddo, we have 3 dogs and a cat. Odie, who is supposed to be the kiddo’s dog, is really like my dog. (We understand and know how kids say they want a pet but really it's up to the parents to ensure their wellbeing.) Then we have 2 other dogs, Pixel and Milli. They are both old grouches with big, temperamental personalities. Lastly, we have a cute fluffy kitty named Gizmo. Mind you, we love him a ton but Cal is allergic to him. We can’t bring ourselves to get rid of him because one, he is a senior cat and two, he's just so soft and fluffy. Cal still occasionally smashes his face into Gizmo and gives him lots of pets despite being allergic to cats.

Now a little bit more about me. I was born and raised in Nebraska, so the cold weather is more my style. These hot Texas summers are brutal for me. I have only been in Texas now since December 2014 and so far I am liking it, with the exception of the weirdness of the political world in Texas. When I first moved to Dallas I was a salesperson for a cell phone department of a furniture company. You read that right, a furniture company. Some of you may know of this company, Nebraska Furniture Mart. I worked for them for 6 years before moving onto a new job at Boy Scouts of America as a Senior Membership Analyst. This was my first time experiencing the world of non-profit and administrative work. It turns out that I really enjoyed the administrative work a lot more than retail. I did this work for 2.5 years before moving to Waco in January of 2018.

I moved here because of my partner, who I love and care deeply about. Just like most couples, there is the playful banter, the shenanigans of giving each other a hard time and of course the pushing to make each other better than before. This is when I became a dad to Cal. Cal is my partner’s and ex-wife’s adopted kid. They adopted Cal when he was just a few days old. He really, truly has been a gift to our lives. My partner, Jeffrey (yes, he does have the same name as me), is also a CPA and works at Waco Family Medicine as the Associate Chief Financial Officer. He is about as nerdy as they come. Has a deep love for Dungeons and Dragons, loves to cuddle up on the couch with a book, and gets a huge thrill out of analyzing numbers and data. Prior to the pandemic, I had left my job at Office Depot to become a full-time stay at home dad.

Now, let's fast forward to the post-pandemic era of living in Waco. I learned that I had some pretty tough mental health battles to fight. One of those battles is learning to cope with Bi-Polar II (it's the version without the manic episodes). I am still very much navigating that world of being Bi-Polar. Mind you, I have been dealing with anxiety and depression long before my diagnosis of Bi-Polar. When I learned that I have Bi-Polar, I was taken back a bit as I never thought I would be someone with Bi-Polar. I too was thinking oh no, as what the media portrayed mental health issues to be scared me. After many therapy sessions and what seems to be a very long road of finding the right medication, I have only truly begun to understand what it means to have this. I was diagnosed with Bi-polar just over a year ago.

One of my current challenges is being able to balance a new work life at UBC and making sure to tend to my mental health. It is incredibly important to me that where I am employed also takes mental health seriously. I have so far with the few short months of being at UBC, been met with lots of support and understanding from the pastoral staff. I hope that as we continue to grow and develop together that our relationship only grows stronger. I also hope that I can be a voice for crafting policies surrounding mental health and ensure the importance of self care and support is continued. I know that my time with UBC is only just beginning and I fully expect it to be rewarding and challenging at the same time. What will make this challenging is this is my first job since my diagnosis and we are in a very unique time at UBC. I hope that with my background in providing unique solutions, providing a different perspective, and my love for finding a modern touch to everyday processes that UBC continues to grow and prosper for many years to come. I look forward to growing and fostering new relationships within the UBC community. You will occasionally see me on Sunday mornings and please don’t hesitate to come up to me and introduce yourself.

Update Your Mailing Address 📬

We’re asking everyone to please share their current address so we can send you things like your annual giving statement, information about our fundraising efforts, and other important information from UBC. You can update your address at this link: https://ubcwaco.churchcenter.com/people/forms/450248

Share Your Feedback 📣

You’re invited to share your feedback (good, bad, or in-between) about the goings-on at UBC! All comments will be shared directly with the UBC Human Resources team who will then share it with Leadership Team, Finance Team, or Pastoral Staff as needed. Share your feedback here: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

If you are in your mid 20’s to mid 30’s, this group is for you. We gather monthly to hang out and get to know each other. This month we will be gathering at Toph’s casa. There will be a sign-up sheet in the foyer, or you can email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up or if you have questions.

Youth Games Afternoon - Saturday, 1:00 pm at UBC

Please join us for a conversation about our approach to formation for our kids and youth. We’d love to talk through this and hear your hopes and dreams for the future!

UBC Creatives - Sunday, 4:00 pm at UBC

Practice any art, music, singing, dancing, acting, drawing, painting, sculpting, poetry, fiction, essays, reportage, no matter how well or badly, not to get money and fame, but to experience becoming, to find out what’s inside you, to make your soul grow.

-Kurt Vonnegut

Join us for our first meeting of ubc[creatives] as we get to know one another and talk about what this group will become.

Giving

We hope UBC is a place you care about and benefit from. If you’d like to help support UBC and allow it to continue, please consider giving as you are able. You can set up one-time or recurring online giving here.

Youth Volunteers

Volunteers are a critical part of UBC’s Youth Group - it’s no exaggeration to say that it literally would not run without them. We’re in need of volunteers to engage with the kids, particularly at our Wednesday night meetings, and to make sure everyone is safe. There is also plenty of room to use specific skills or experience you might have - whether that’s leading lessons, running games, or something else entirely! For more information click this link and/or email kieran@ubcwaco.org.

Youth Dinner

If you’d like to get involved with the Youth Group but can’t volunteer on Wednesday nights you can sign-up to provide youth dinner (cooked, bought, or otherwise!) instead. Sign up for that here and Kieran will reach out to you at the beginning of the week you sign up for to arrange details.

Children’s Ministry

Want to serve with UBC Kids but can’t but can’t say yes to a once/month commitment? We’d love to add you to our list of dedicated subs who can step in from time to time. Email brooke@ubcwaco.org to sign up.

On Wednesday October 26th, the 5/6th grade group and youth group will be combined for a Halloween celebration. We are going to eat dinner, have a costume contest, and watch a Halloween-themed movie.

We are going to meet up at the Cameron Park Zoo at 9am on Saturday the 29th. The zoo is having a Halloween themed scavenger hunt! Bring yourself and your kiddos out to the zoo for a fun day, and get to know some other UBC families. Costumes are encouraged, but not required. Email toph@ubcwaco.org with any questions.

All Saints Liturgy - Tuesday, November 1st at 5:30pm

Fall Fire Chill - Friday, November 4th at 6pm

Belief & Belonging Festival - Saturday, November 5th

UBC is hosting Waco's first TEDx-style event! The Belief & Belonging Festival will feature local and national speakers and performers (like our very own Jamie McGregor!) exploring ideas around how what we believe, once believed, and/or are trying to believe impacts when/where, and how we belong or once belonged. Virtual tickets are also available with access to both the livestream and a 72-replay option. Use this code ubchome at checkout and receive $10 off General Admission tickets!

For more information or ticketing, visit the Eventbrite page, Instagram or Facebook. You can also contact, Sharyl West Loeung at sharylwl@gmail.com.

Women's Group-Hangout - Friday, November 11th at 7pm

Thanksgiving Lovefeast - Sunday, November 13th at 5:30pm

UBC Families Meetup-Mini Golf - Monday, November 14th, 5-7pm

Post-Thanksgiving Evening Service - Sunday, November 27th at 6pm

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often!

Parishioner of the Week

The parishioners of the week are the Lands for hosting the LGBTQIA+ meetup on Friday.

Preaching Schedule

10/23: Craig
10/30: Kieran
11/6:Kirk
11/13: Listening to Our Congregation: LGBTQ Folks
11/20: Christ the King Sunday
11/27: Kirk
12/4: Kirk
12/11: Ryan Miller
12/18: Patrick Broaddus
12/25: Special Christmas Stream (Online Only)
1/1: Brunch Church!

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Jose Zuniga (jzgrphix2002@yahoo.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Mike Dodson (financeteammike@gmail.com)
Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)

ITLOTC 10-11-2022

An Announcement from Leadership Team

Dear UBCers,

Over the last several weeks, you've likely noticed additions to the weekly newsletter and the slides on Sunday mornings detailing UBCs current finances. And if you attended the last town hall meeting, you know in greater detail that UBC is at a critical point financially. 

As a Leadership Team, we are committed to transparency with you about the state of our finances and what is at stake for us as a community. We want to avoid any surprises about significant changes at UBC due to financial need and we want the congregation to be able to make informed decisions regarding your contributions.

Recently the Finance Team let us know that we are currently averaging $15,000 less per month than our operating expenses. Additionally adding strain, as discussed in recent town halls, are several major, unavoidable upcoming expenses, including mandatory parking lot and air conditioning repairs.  

At this point with no significant changes in giving or spending, we will have completely depleted our savings and be unable to meet monthly expenditures by August 2023. This all means we are in danger of significant changes to the current fabric of UBC - including the possibility of losing or reducing staff positions. UBC has been at a similar crossroads before, and the congregation was unaware until those changes happened. We do not want anyone to be in the dark about what is currently at risk for UBC. The Leadership Team, Finance Team, HR Team, and staff believe wholeheartedly that Waco needs UBC - as a church, for the theological space we hold and for the community that is currently here, and for those who will find themselves here in the coming weeks, months, and years. 

For this reason, we are launching an intentional and swift fundraising effort through the end of December; at which point we will re-evaluate the type and degree of changes that must be made. We understand not everyone will be able to give any more than they already have, but we also know some of us might be able to make changes that can have a direct impact on the future of the UBC community. Maybe you are in a place to increase your monthly giving, perhaps you are ready to set up monthly giving via Church Center for the first time. Or maybe you’re looking to make a year-end gift somewhere. Whatever the case may be, the time to give is now. 

You can give in the baskets passed each week during the service. You can set up monthly giving here or using the QR code available during each service.

We also want to invite you to be a part of our Fundraising Team. If you have experience in fundraising, grant writing, or are compelled to serve UBC in this unique season, please reach out to our Leadership Team Chair, Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com).

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Leadership Team. You can find our emails at the bottom of this newsletter and in the slide rotation on Sunday mornings.

We Want to Send You Snail Mail 🐌

Following on the above update from Leadership Team, we’re asking everyone to please share their current address so we can send you things like your annual giving statement, information about our fundraising efforts, and other important information from UBC. You can update your address at this link: https://ubcwaco.churchcenter.com/people/forms/450248

Share Your Feedback 📣

You’re invited to share your feedback (good, bad, or in-between) about the goings-on at UBC! All comments will be shared directly with the UBC Human Resources team who will then share it with Leadership Team, Finance Team, or Pastoral Staff as needed. Share your feedback here: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

If you are in your mid 20’s-mid 30’s, we would love for you to join us for a retreat. We will leave on Friday afternoon from UBC and return in time for church on Sunday morning. We are headed to a lake house on Cedar Creek Lake, and the cost is $40 for all meals and lodging. Email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up, or if you have questions.

Please join us this month on the Lands’ for another potluck. This is a great time to meet other folks at UBC, and show our unequivocal support for the LGBTQIA+ community. Email toph@ubcwaco.org with any questions or to sign up.

If you are new to UBC within the last 6 months, and would like to learn more about our community and ways you can get involved, please consider staying after church this Sunday, October 16th. We will provide lunch and drinks, and will be done by 1:30pm at the latest. Email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign up.

Giving

If UBC is a place you care about and benefit from, we hope you’ll consider financially supporting this work as you are able. You can give online here.

Youth Dinner

If you’d like to get involved with the Youth Group but can’t volunteer on Wednesday nights you can sign-up to provide youth dinner (cooked, bought, or otherwise!) instead. Sign up for that here and Kieran will reach out to you at the beginning of the week you sign up for to arrange details.

Children’s Ministry

Want to serve with UBC Kids but can’t but can’t say yes to a once/month commitment? We’d love to add you to our list of dedicated subs who can step in from time to time. Email brooke@ubcwaco.org to sign up.

We are starting a monthly small group, a family sensory worship space. Come as you are! The group will have a loose structure in short durations: a time of meditation, a time of yoga, a very short time of listening to biblical or testimony stories, a time for creative play, a time of music/dance, a time for sharing/visiting. Visual and/or sound needs will be considered. Movement is encouraged as needed.

It will be based on the Quaker Montessori curriculum Sparkling Still, in which short inspirational and interactive stories are provided on simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship, mindfulness, empathy, discernment, and other virtues for the whole family.

Please sign up in the lobby to be involved in the planning or first gatherings. You can also email jamie@ubcwaco.org. We hope to launch in early 2023.

If you are in your mid 20’s to mid 30’s, this group is for you. We gather monthly to hang out and get to know each other. This month we will be gathering at Toph’s casa. There will be a sign-up sheet in the foyer, or you can email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up or if you have questions.

Please join us for a conversation about our approach to formation for our kids and youth. We’d love to talk through this and hear your hopes and dreams for the future!

On Wednesday October 26th, the 5/6th grade group and youth group will be combined for a Halloween celebration. We are going to eat dinner, have a costume contest, and watch a Halloween-themed movie.

UBC Women’s Costume Party - Friday, October 28th at 7pm

Wear a costume and bring a Spooky Snack or Drink to share!

We are going to meet up at the Cameron Park Zoo at 9am on Saturday the 29th. The zoo is having a Halloween themed scavenger hunt! Bring yourself and your kiddos out to the zoo for a fun day, and get to know some other UBC families. Costumes are encouraged, but not required. Email toph@ubcwaco.org with any questions.

All Saints Liturgy - Tuesday, November 1st at 5:30pm

Fall Fire Chill - Friday, November 4th at 6pm

Belief & Belonging Festival - Saturday, November 5th

Women's Group-Hangout - Friday, November 11th at 7pm

Thanksgiving Lovefeast - Sunday, November 13th at 5:30pm

UBC Families Meetup-Mini Golf - Monday, November 14th, 5-7pm

Post-Thanksgiving Evening Service - Sunday, November 27th at 6pm

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often!

Parishioner of the Week

The parishioners of the week are all the volunteers who helped with Out on the Brazos on Saturday.

Preaching Schedule

10/16: Kerri
10/23: Craig
10/30: Kieran
11/6:Kirk
11/13: Listening to Our Congregation: LGBTQ Folks
11/20: Christ the King Sunday
11/27: Kirk

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Jose Zuniga (jzgrphix2002@yahoo.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Mike Dodson (financeteammike@gmail.com)
Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)

ITLOTC 10-4-2022

in the life of the church | ordinary time

St. Francis (by Jamie)

When we think about saints, we think of people who were particularly adept at embodying being formed in the way of Christ in their particular time and place, and thus look to them as examples as we seek to do the same.

Today we mark the life of St. Francis of Assisi. You have probably noticed that we have several statues of Francis around Ubc, and this is for good reason, as some of the core values Francis embodied are our own.

He is known for having an understanding of the interconnectedness of things.  He referred to animals, plants, planets, emotions, and, of course, all people, as his siblings; knowing that we are wholly connected by the love and attention of God. 

He had deep concern for beauty, famously rebuilding a crumbling chapel in the hills outside his home town.  He was also a poet, prone to break into verse to declare the innate beauty of the world around him. This drive to embrace and embody beauty was born of his awareness of God’s care for the same.

Further, Francis invites us to reorient our relationship to material goods and wealth, shining a light onto the life of simplicity where God’s care and provision burns brightest.  He did this in his own life, and embodied it further in his care for the poor and cast-away of society.

I’ll elaborate on all this more at our St. Francis Liturgy tonight (at 5:30), but if you can’t make it, I hope that you’ll give Francis a google and take a moment to reflect on his life.

But if you don’t have time for that, I leave you with this quote from a Franciscan community about one of the primary lessons of Francis’ life:

Conversion, or rather living in a state of constantly being converted, is what Francis' life was about. Drawn by the love of God, drawn away from worldly ambitions for glory, Francis instead found his treasure in the total surrender of self to God.

For those of us who follow Jesus in the footsteps of St. Francis, the example of conversion to God, of living each day in a deeper state of conversion, to die to self a little more each day that we might live entirely for God, this is the important thing to see in Francis.

This has always struck me as a place where the life of Francis draws near to the heart of Ubc—we who are seeking to be formed more fully in the way of Christ, to love God, embrace beauty, and live life to the fullest.  If nothing else, may this day draw your attention back to that common cause.

And as you do so, receive this benediction:

May God bless us with discomfort at easy answers,
half-truths, and superficial relationships,
so that we will live deeply in our hearts.
May God bless us with anger
at injustice, oppression, and exploitation
of people and the earth,
so that we will work for justice, equity, and peace.
May God bless us with tears to shed
for those who suffer,
so that we will reach out our hands
to comfort them and change their pain to joy.
And may God bless us with the foolishness to think
that we can make a difference in the world,
so that we will do the things which others say
cannot be done.

Amen.

We are starting a monthly small group, a family sensory worship space. Come as you are! The group will have a loose structure in short durations: a time of meditation, a time of yoga, a very short time of listening to biblical or testimony stories, a time for creative play, a time of music/dance, a time for sharing/visiting. Visual and/or sound needs will be considered. Movement is encouraged as needed.

It will be based on the Quaker Montessori curriculum Sparkling Still, in which short inspirational and interactive stories are provided on simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship, mindfulness, empathy, discernment, and other virtues for the whole family.

Please sign up in the lobby to be involved in the planning or first gatherings. You can also email jamie@ubcwaco.org. We hope to launch in early 2023.

October Dinner Parties

Want to get to know other UBC’ers? Do you enjoy dinner? Then this is for you! Each month we have a sign-up sheet in the foyer for dinner parties. You can sign-up to host, attend, or go out to eat. I (Toph) will connect 2-3 households each month, and you commit to having dinner with those folks. If you have any questions, please contact toph@ubcwaco.org

Join us at 5:30PM on Tuesday, October 4th, as we celebrate the life of St. Francis of Assisi.  We'll be using the story of his life as a lens to worship God, and also as a tool of our own formation.  If you'd like to submit a photo of a beloved animal in your life, email jamie@ubcwaco.org

Youth - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

5th & 6th Graders - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

Pints w/ Toph - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

We are having our first table at Out on the Brazos this year, and we need a few folks to come out and share about UBC. The festival is from 11am-6pm, and we are looking for people to come out and help us with our booth. If you would like to volunteer, please contact toph@ubcwaco.org

Youth Games Afternoon - Saturday, October 8th at 1pm

Children’s Ministry

Want to serve with UBC Kids but can’t but can’t say yes to a once/month commitment? We’d love to add you to our list of dedicated subs who can step in from time to time. Email brooke@ubcwaco.org to sign up.

Youth Ministry

If you’d like to get involved with the Youth Group but can’t volunteer on Wednesday nights you can sign-up to provide youth dinner (cooked, bought, or otherwise!) instead. Sign up for that here and Kieran will reach out to you at the beginning of the week you sign up for to arrange details.

Giving

If UBC is a place you care about and benefit from, we hope you’ll consider financially supporting this work as you are able. You can give online here.

If you are in your mid 20’s-mid 30’s, we would love for you to join us for the retreat in a few weeks. We will leave on Friday afternoon from UBC, and return in time for church on Sunday morning. We are headed to a lake house on Cedar Creek Lake, and the cost is $40 for all meals and lodging. Email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up, or if you have questions.

LGBTQIA+ Meetup - Friday, October 14 at 6pm

Please join us this month on the Land’s for another potluck. This is a great time to meet other folks at UBC, and show our unequivocal support for the LGBTQIA+ community. There will be a sign-up sheet in the foyer. Email toph@ubcwaco.org with any questions.

If you are new to UBC within the last 6 months, and would like to learn more about our community and ways you can get involved, please consider staying after church on October 16th. We will provide lunch and drinks, and will be done by 1:30pm at the latest. You can sign-up on Sunday morning, or email toph@ubcwaco.org

UBCYP Hangout - Thursday, October 20th at 7pm

If you are in your mid 20’s to mid 30’s, this group is for you. We gather monthly to hang out and get to know each other. This month we will be gathering at Toph’s casa. There will be a sign-up sheet in the foyer, or you can email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up or if you have questions.

Children & Youth Formation Conversation - Sunday, October 23rd after church

Please join us for a conversation about our approach to formation for our kids and youth. We’d love to talk through this and hear your hopes and dreams for the future!

Women’s Group-Costume Party - Friday, October 28th at 7pm

UBC Families Meetup-Waco Zoo - Saturday, October 29th at 9am

We are going to meet up at the Cameron Park Zoo at 9am on Saturday the 29th. The zoo is having a Halloween themed scavenger hunt! Bring yourself and your kiddos out to the zoo for a fun day, and get to know some other UBC families. Costumes are encouraged, but not required. Email toph@ubcwaco.org with any questions.

All Saints Liturgy - Tuesday, November 1st at 5:30pm

Fall Fire Chill - Friday, November 4th at 6pm

Belief & Belonging Festival - Saturday, November 5th

Women's Group-Hangout - Friday, November 11th at 7pm

Thanksgiving Lovefeast - Sunday, November 13th at 5:30pm

UBC Families Meetup-Mini Golf - Monday, November 14th, 5-7pm

Post-Thanksgiving Evening Service - Sunday, November 27th at 6pm

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often!

Van Davis is hosting a 6-week fitness program at UBC and would like to offer UBCers all 12 sessions for $25, instead of $60. Use the QR code above to register.

Parishioner of the Week

Our parishioners of the week are Kyle & Kristen Howerton for hosting an awesome UBC tailgate.

Preaching Schedule

10/9: Patrick

10/16: Kerri

10/23: Craig

10/30: Kieran

11/6:Kirk

11/13: Listening to Our Congregation: LGBTQ Folks

11/20: Christ the King Sunday

11/27: Kirk

UBC Kids October 2022

Hi friends,

Welcome to the very first UBC Kids email. My hope is to send you a care package on the first Monday of each month that you can refer to throughout the month. Each one will include news and information for children and families at UBC, a resource I've found to be helpful, and an occasional idea or two for family faith formation at home.

I want to take a second to say how much I love your kids and what a privilege it is to catch glimpses of their growth and formation on Sunday mornings. Jillian and I take turns walking the halls each week in case we're needed for anything. As we walk, we pray. I’ll confess, I indulge in some eavesdropping, too.

Last week, I listened to our 2- and 3-year-olds baaaa boisterously as they learned about God's love through the story of the lost sheep. I overheard our 1st and 2nd graders cheer each other on as they found lost coins just like Jesus searches for—and finds—us. The sounds of giggles and good questions and kind instruction filled the air. I found myself grinning and thinking this, right here, is a parable.

The kingdom of God is joyful and contagious and a little bit wild, like a child's belly laugh. It can't be contained, but instead spreads to all who hear it. The kingdom of God is playful and fun and sometimes silly like a game. It beckons us to bring our holy curiosity to its pursuit. The kingdom of God is like arms open wide in welcome. We can trust all our fears and questions, our needs and hopes to its endless embrace.

As our children come to know God, they’re learning that God is good and that God can be trusted. My hope, as always, is that they will choose to trust and follow God in their own lives. (That’s my hope for you and for me, as well.)

Grace and peace,
Brooke

For the Month of October

On Sunday mornings from 10:45-noon, our 2-year-olds through 4th graders are busy learning who God is and what God is like through the stories of scripture. Our lectionary-based curriculum is fun, interactive, and tailored to each age group. Here's what they'll spend the next few weeks learning about.

On Wednesday evenings from 6:00-8:00, our 5th and 6th graders are exploring the overall story arc of scripture and how it connects to the foundations of our faith. They’re walking through the Old Testament with an eye toward understanding the history of God’s people and adding context for who Jesus is and why Jesus is so important. In October they'll be busy exploring...

Click the titles of any of the weeks above for the corresponding Family Pages so you can continue these conversations with your kids at home. (You can also find printed versions of the Family Pages on the UBC Kids bulletin board at church.)

For Your Family Formation

I’m so grateful for Meredith Anne Miller and the way she has shaped by approach to children and faith formation. Meredith is a pastor and parent with over 20 years of experience helping families follow Jesus. She spent five years as Curriculum Director for the children’s ministry at Willow Creek Community Church in Chicago, Illinois, where she created a framework for lessons that responds to the latest research on kids and faith formation. She's also worked with Fuller Youth Institute since 2007.

I love Meredith's vision for helping parents re-examine the notion of using the Bible to raise “good kids” and instead move toward becoming a Jesus-centered, justice-seeking, joy-filled family. She is a delightful human being and one of my favorite follows on Instagram! (I've especially appreciated her highlights on obedience, anti-racism, deconstruction, and affirmation).

Oh, and she also makes a podcast for kids and their grownups called Ask Away. In each 10-minute episode, she and her kids tell a Bible story and then talk about questions kids listeners send to the show.

For Your Calendar

UBC Families Meetup-Waco Zoo - October 29th at 9am

Fall Fire Chill - Friday, November 4th at 6pm

Thanksgiving Lovefeast - Sunday, November 13th at 5:30pm

UBC Families Meetup-Mini Golf - Monday, November 14th, 5-7pm

Post-Thanksgiving Evening Service - Sunday, November 27th at 6pm

UBC Family Retreat - Friday, March 3-Monday, March 6

UNIVERSITY BAPTIST 


1701 Dutton Ave. Waco, TX 76706

254-752-1401

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