The Pane: Spring Gathering
Henri Nouwen was a successful priest, theologian, and community activist. He was in charge of big projects, major initiatives, and the intricate details to make things happen. And yet, he came to realize that beyond agendas, plans, meetings, what we need more is the power of presence. He wrote:
More and more, the desire grows in me simply to walk around, greet people, enter their homes, sit on their doorsteps, play ball, throw water, and be known as someone who wants to live with them. It is a privilege to have the time to practice this simple ministry of presence…I wonder more and more if the first thing shouldn’t be to know people by name, to eat and drink with them, to listen to their stories and tell your own, and to let them know with words, handshakes, and hugs that you do not simply like them, but truly love them.
The church has a lot of important business. We’ve got a campus to manage, bills to pay, funds to raise, personnel to coach, volunteers to organize, ministries to plan, programs to lead, and so much more.
But have we ever considered that busyness of the church can prevent us from seeing and engaging the purpose of the church to build healthy Jesus-centric relationships?
And can we recognize that participating in the vital business of the church is not a healthy substitute for the critical role of community within the church?
UBC’s annual Spring Gathering is just a few days away. One of the more remarkable events our church hosts, the Spring Gathering, is an opportunity to build relationships and strengthen intergenerational connections, minister to our community, and simply have fun together.
It would be easy to see this event as something for a subset of people within UBC and not for me. But for each person that chooses not to share their presence, the opportunity for intergenerational connections is weakened. For each person that sees this event as not for me, the chance to be mutually blessed and share a blessing with others is missed.
So, I want to extend an invitation to you to participate. Show up, share a meal, join in activities, share in conversations, and see what happens.
We will have lunch for all, a silent bake auction to raise money for our Ecuador partnership, lawn games, and much more.
Participants are encouraged to bring an Easter basket to collect all the goodies and a generous heart to contribute to the silent bake auction, benefiting our mission partnership in Ecuador.
This free experience is designed for all ages to enjoy, so please come and invite friends, family, and neighbors.
Parking will be available on the ball field parking lot with limited parking on the Highland side of the campus.
May we invest deeply in the ministry of presence.
UBC's Spring Gathering
UBC will host its annual Spring Gathering on Sunday, April 3, on our Highland Road front lawn. This year’s event will feature a Meadow Ride, Bunny Hop (Trunk or Treat style egg share), lots of games, a free meal, and a silent bake auction.
Participants are encouraged to bring an Easter basket to collect all the goodies and a generous heart to contribute to the silent bake auction, benefiting our mission partnership in Ecuador.
This free experience is designed for all ages to enjoy, so please come and invite friends, family, and neighbors.
Parking will be available on the ball field parking lot with limited parking on the Highland side of the campus.
Volunteers Needed for UBC’s Spring Gathering
To help make the Spring Gathering a reality, we need your help. Sign up by using the following link above, click image, or by contacting the office.
MDO Job Opening
UBC’s MDO has a new job opening for MDO Director. UBC will be hoping to find a replacement by the end of April. If you feel you are a good fit, please visit our blog post for info, job description, and how to apply: https://www.ubc-br.org/post/mother-s-day-out-director-opening-1
Donate Items for Spring Gathering Bake Auction
The Ecuador Team will host a silent bake auction at the April 3rd Spring Gathering. We need a variety of bakers to provide a plethora of treats for the sale. Register today to donate a delicious treat for the sale: https://form.jotform.com/220465337845157
Communication and Membership Update
UBC is updating its communication and membership records to more effectively communicate and connect. In the coming weeks, you will have the opportunity to fill out an online form, mail in a physical form to the office, or submit an insert from the worship guide to help us update our records.
Complete your form before April 1st, and your name will be automatically entered into a pool for several prizes, including gift cards to local restaurants.
If you would like to set up a time to talk with the pastor about becoming a member, please call the office (225-766-9474) or email (andy@ubc-br)
If you would like to learn more about the Communication and Membership Update, check out: https://www.ubc-br.org/post/the-pane-what-does-it-mean-to-become-a-member-of-ubc
RELATIONSHIPS
UBC's Easter Brunch
Save the date for our Easter Brunch! We need a variety of breakfast/brunch foods for our Easter Brunch. Sign up to bring an item here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30e0e4da8a82aa5f85-easter
UBC's Summer Gathering Survey
UBC will host three Summer Gatherings on the second Sunday of every month in June, July, and August. In the past, these events have centered on community and shared-interest activities. In planning, we want to know the types of activities that interest you. Please take a few moments to fill out this poll to give us helpful insight: https://forms.gle/4BPLWEMA7LMYoJSh9
Barnabas Project Partners
Are you in a Barnabas Projection connection? The Barnabas Project is an intergenerational connection between retirees and children with their families at UBC.
In February and March, our Barnabas Project Partners had the opportunity to share why they loved their partner. For the next few weeks, we’ll be highlighting some of those responses. For the complete collection, visit the Kids’ Corner in the Narthex.
To start your Barnabas Project connection, reach out to Tanya, Minister of Children and Retirees, at 225-766-9474 or tanya@ubc-br.org.
Special Note:
We will not be meeting the first week of April.
Join us May 1 after church for a meal with your partners.
More information to follow.
VOLUNTEERING
We Need Your Help as Our Church Grows
As out church continues to grow, we need your help. Consider volunteering for one of the above.
Choir is Back
The choir is back! We are currently rehearsing Wednesday nights from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Music Suite. All are welcome. Previous experience not required. Safety precautions include masks and distancing. Join us! Contact justin@ubc-br.org for more information.
MISSIONS
Pick Up Your Kindness Bags
Over 300 Kindness Bags were made at the January 30th Missions Sunday. They are simple food and hygiene kits you can keep in your car to give to someone in need.
Pick up a bag at the office during the week or grab one in the Narthex on Sundays.
UBC Stained-Glass Christmas Ornaments
For informant how to purchase your ornament, click the image above.
Ecuador Support Project
All contributions should be labeled “Ecuador Support Project.” You can also donate online here: https://form.jotform.com/213325214630140
SPIRITUAL FORMATION
Thursday Prayer Group is Back!
The group meets every Thursday over Zoom at 12:30pm. We will be reading Walking The Way by John Dear.
Join us on Zoom.
Zoom ID: 570-645-5793
Password: ubc
UBC's Flowering of the Easter Cross
Save the Date for this special day of worship where we will be flowering the Easter Cross at 10:00am. We hope to see you there!
CHURCH OF THE NATIONS
Worship in the Chapel this Sunday
Contact eric@ubc-br.org for more information.
GENERAL UPDATES
Save The Dates
How To Give
Mask Policy Update
Click on the image above to review our updated mask policy.
