As you know, the Pathfinder Committee spent this summer examining our church life and structure, and discerning recommendations for moving forward as a congregation. Their final report produced a comprehensive list of recommended actions. The Church Council subsequently approved these recommendations with a few modifications (click here to read the final recommendations). While the Congregation Ministry…
DetailsThe Racial Justice Committee invites you to join us at the Monteocha Historical Marker Unveiling Ceremony. Moses Smith, a victim of racial terror will be remembered. The Alachua County City Remembrance Project and Equal Justice Initiative have inspired this project. Dawn Beachy, UCG Racial Justice member, has been the mentor for remembrance quilts created by…
DetailsNovember Moderator’s Minute (2024) Hello friends! The weather is finally turning a bit cooler. I’m taking advantage of the Fall weather that seems to regularly occur now – at least between the hours of 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. – when I can wear my sweaters. I am anxiously awaiting a socially appropriate time to…
DetailsDear UCG, You have likely heard this news already, as it has trickled through congregational meetings and Board of Business reports, but the church leadership and I have had to complete several steps before making it “official.” So now, belatedly and hopefully no longer as a surprise to anyone, I offer my resignation from UCG,…
DetailsDear UCG, The first thing I ever bought from UCG was a “Black Lives Matter” sign from our Racial Justice Committee, in the fall of 2020. Our Pride service that year was online only, but the afternoon featured a drive-through event, at which you could get communion, your BLM sign, an art kit for kids…
DetailsDear friends, As the last months of the year start to creep ever closer, I want to remind everyone that my position here is changing. However, I’m always happy to assist or point you to the right person for any inquires you may have. I would like to ask everyone to please remember to check with…
DetailsFrom the Board of Business – October 2024 Well, a lot has changed since I wrote my last article for the newsletter. The Board of Business had a first draft of our 2025 budget, and all was looking good. However, that was written in mid-August, and since then we’ve received the Pathfinder Subcommittee report with…
DetailsThank you for the warm welcome to UCG! I appreciate everyone who has reached out with their events, needs, and to share about their roles in our congregation. Tristan and Holden have been working hard to address some of the sound issues we’ve been having with WaveCast and our YouTube live services. We had assistance…
DetailsThe Racial Justice Committee (RJC) is planning several fall events. On September 22, We will be hosting a Banned Books Reception in the UCG Library after the service. The RJC has been adding to the Banned Book Section over the past year, and wants the congregation to be aware of the kinds of books that…
DetailsFrom the Board of Business – September 2024 The Board of Business continues to optimistic about the health of finances at UCG. At the end of July we are 58.33% through the year. Revenue through July totals 62% of our income budget. Pledge income for the same period is 63.5% of the budgeted amount. Plate…
DetailsUpcoming Climate & Sustainability Events The Creation Justice Committee of UCG has several exciting events and opportunities happening over the next two months. For any questions or updates, contact Jim Harper (jimwharper@icloud.com). Gainesville Art Exhibit: August 27-October 19 The Gainesville Fine Arts Association (GFAA) will be hosting “HEAT,” their Biennial National juried exhibit, from…
DetailsUCG Men’s Retreat 2024 theme is “The Book of Our Lives.” Join us for a weekend of meaningful connection, spiritual exploration, and fun from November 8-10 at beautiful Camp Weed in Live Oak. Together, we will explore the narratives of our own and each other’s lives, with a focus on connection to each other and…
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