Friends, There has been a lot going on in recent weeks, and we want to share with you as faithfully, honestly, and transparently as possible what has happened, and what to expect as we look to the next chapter in the life of the United Church of Gainesville. First, it is with great sadness that…
DetailsDear friends, I write two days after Easter Sunday, still flying high after the glory of being present with you throughout our Holy Week observances of the past week. I have long loved those days, for the depth of sorrow and grief, for understanding our own complicity in human suffering and the even more powerful…
DetailsDuring the month of March, Jill White, a team member of the UCC’s Church Building and Loan Fund, conducted 36 interviews with members of UCG, as part of a feasibility study, an important step in planning for a possible capital campaign. White asked questions about the participants’ sense of UCG’s strengths, about their understanding of…
DetailsClick here to see the local events happening during Earth Week, April 15 – 21. Here are some highlights: National Faith and Climate Forum at Temple Shir Shalom, April 16, 11:30 am – 5:15 p.m. GRU will offer energy saving giveaways. UCC’s second annual Earth Summit watch party in Reimer Hall, April 20, 1 – 3:30 p.m.…
DetailsTransitions and Core Values Dearest UCG, we are at yet another transition in the life of our vibrant, wonderful, and life-giving work as the people who make up our church – a beacon of light and hope in a world that often feels difficult. If you are feeling some unease, and some grief at some…
DetailsThe UCG Sunday Seminar Committee is proud to announce a lineup of coming seminars we are certain you will enjoy. Join us every Sunday morning at 11:30 a.m. in Reimer Hall or on Zoom. April 7 – “Shadows of Emmett Till” – Bob Newman will discuss his photo book on Emmett Till which showcases archival images…
DetailsAt UCG we do our best to take care of one another in times of joy and sorrow. During times of death, the Kairos Committee offers support by organizing a reception following each memorial service for UCG members. Working with family and the ministers, we strive to provide flowers, food and a welcoming atmosphere for…
DetailsThis is my last time to give an update about Buildings and Grounds. After 18 months as acting chair, I am passing the leadership baton to Erick Smith and Stephen Bottomly, who are more than equipped to lead this experienced and knowledgeable group of folks. I will stay on the committee for the time being…
DetailsWe are a few months into a new year. The Board of Business has only reviewed the first two months of revenue and expenditures and so far, so good. We’ve already received over 21% of our annual budgeted revenue, but only spent 16.1% of our annual expense budget. Expenses are mostly in line with what…
DetailsOn February 11th we welcomed nine new members into UCG. That’s nine people who are trying to learn the names and faces of a whole bunch of us. Here are some tips to help all of us get acquainted. Look out for those new faces: Next to the sidewalk, as you walk up to the…
DetailsIt is with some sadness that we report that the UCG Mommy Reads program, which ran from March 2012-March 2020, has been discontinued due to the changing and onerous rules of the DeSantis administration, the need for lay and clergy leadership of the program, and the danger to our volunteers due to lax masking and…
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