Join us as we build a gingerbread village, have great snacks, hot chocolate and spiced cider & MORE! Children up through high school are welcome to participate! We’ll provide everything you need, so just come and enjoy.
what's happening
News
Dec. 3 Announcements
Coming up Dec. 3-Danish-Amertican yule Fest, 5:30, Folk Center Dec. 6-Union Church Budget Meeting 6:30 Dec. 9-Loyal Jones’ Memorial Service 2:00 pm Dec. 10-Classic Chorale Christmas Concert 4:00 Dec. 13-Christmas Card Making after Supper Dec. 20-Amadeus Lex Chamber Music Series will present “We Wi-Schumann ‘erry Christmas” 7:00, Sanctuary Dec. 21-LongNight Service, 7:00, Cowan Chapel Dec…. Read more.
December 3, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am, First Sunday of Advent “When we decide to embrace hope — when we choose to make that our goal and our message — we release a flow of energy that cannot be overcome. Hope is a light that darkness… Read more.
Nov. 26 Announcements
“Advent” and special Church Seasons The church year is full of special seasons and follows a yearly calendar different from the one we use everywhere else. Some Christian traditions have marked these times with special colors or emphases, while for others they may be unfamiliar. You may have noticed that Union Church decorations change from… Read more.
November 26, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Reign of Christ Sunday, 10:30 am Meditation“The kingdom is not an exclusive, well-trimmed suburb with snobbish rules about who can live there. No, it is for a larger, homelier, less self-conscious caste of people who understand they are sinners because they… Read more.
Home Sweet Home: A Creative Event for Parents & Children
November 19, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am The Twenty-fifth Sunday after Pentecost Meditation “Let the time not be distant, O God, when all shall turn to You in love, when all the brokenness in our world is repaired by the work [tikkun olam] of our hands… Read more.
November 19 Announcements
Concert Coming up Nov. 29! It’s Berea College’s Homecoming! Welcome to Berea College alumni, families and friends! Rev. Christina Ryan Perkins ’98, brings us the Word today, Worship Leaders are EJ Stokes ’08 and Alice White, and Berea College President, Dr. Cheryl Nixon brings greetings. The Alumni Choir sings the Anthem, under the direction of… Read more.
November 12 Bulletin Announcements
Coming up Today, Nov. 12-Giving Day, dedication of our 2024 Pledges Nov. 18-Black Music Ensemble Homecoming Concert 1:30 Nov. 22-NO Weds Open Table, but come on to Thanksgiving dinner… Nov. 23-Thanksgiving Dinner in the Community Room! Nov. 29-Gangspil, Norwegian Folk Group concert, Cowan Chapel 7:00 Dec. 1 & 2-Berea College Christmas Concert 7:30 each night… Read more.
November 12, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am The Twenty-fourth Sunday after Pentecost A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am The Twenty-fourth Sunday after Pentecost Meditation Gratitude We give because someone gave to us. We give because nobody… Read more.
Nov. 5 Announcements
Coming up Nov. 12-Giving Day, dedication of our 2024 Pledges Nov. 18-Black Music Ensemble Homecoming Concert 1:30 Nov. 23-Thanksgiving Dinner in the Community Room! See poster, below Dec. 1 & 2-Berea College Christmas Concert 7:30 each night Dec. 6-Union Church Budget Meeting 6:30 Dec. 9-Loyal Jones Memorial Service 2:00 pm Dec. 10-Classic Chorale Christmas Concert… Read more.
November 5, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am The Twenty-third Sunday after Pentecost All Saints Sunday Meditation “Can’t you feel it ever closer We breathe it in and then we exhale We touch both sides and now eternal Standing closer to the veil” ~Carrie Newcomer From There… Read more.
BEREA NEIGHBORLY NETWORKS
Faith Development Boards’ new Family Programming Committee has planned its first event which will have to be posted to a date TBA in December. See the ad for what the focus of this event will be as we seek to reach out to parents and children (particularly ages 3-11) and offer community, connections, safe space,… Read more.
An Open Table Thanksgiving Feast
October 29 Announcements
Coming up – Save the Dates! Nov. 12-Giving Day, dedication of our 2024 Pledges Nov. 18-Black Music Ensemble Homecoming Concert 1:30 Dec. 1 & 2-Berea College Christmas Concert 7:30 each night Dec. 6-Union Church Budget Meeting 6:30 Dec. 9-Loyal Jones Memorial Service afternoon time tbd Dec. 10-Classic Chorale Christmas Concert 4:00 Weekly compline service this… Read more.
October 29, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union The Twenty-second Sunday after Pentecost 10:30 am Meditation “Your problem is how you are going to spend this one odd and precious life you have been issued. Whether you’re going to spend it trying to look good and creating the illusion… Read more.
Exploring Your Own Sacred Story
Indigenous peoples across the globe have handed down their people’s sacred stories through storytelling, song, dance, and visual imagery for generations. Their collective mythology offers a cultural perspective on where they come from, how things came into being, and provides guidelines for living life well. These stories are often referenced or re-told in healing ceremonies… Read more.
Oct. 22 Announcements
New Members Welcomed Today! As a family of faith committed to boldly & creatively embodying the life and ministry of Jesus, we would like to join with YOU. We’d like to be a context and inspiration for your own spiritual path, and work with you to make your heart, your world, your life more peace-filled… Read more.
Oct. 22, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am The Twenty-first Sunday after Pentecost Meditation True profession of faith and love for God should not be in the way you speak, but in the way you live. ~author unknown From There to Here: We Gather Prelude … Read more.
Oct. 15, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union The Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost 10:30 am Meditation Faith is perception. It is how we see. If we see the world around us as nothing but darkness, a darkness we cannot change, then darkness is what we get. But if we… Read more.
Oct. 15 Announcements
Rev. Kent and Diana are traveling in Japan leading the Madison County Delegation to our Sister City, Hokuto in Yamanashi Prefecture. Dr. Pam Chabora leads worship this morning in his absence and we are grateful to her for bringing the word and the love! New Members Welcomed Next Week! As a family of faith committed… Read more.
October 8 Announcements
Rev. Kent and Diana will be traveling to Japan next week leading the Madison County Delegation to our Sister City, Hokuto in Yamanashi Prefecture. Dr. Pam Chabora will be leading worship in his absence and we are grateful to her for bringing the word and the love! Wednesday Evening Open Table – Supper is at… Read more.
Oct. 8, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union The Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost 10:30 am Meditation “During times of war, hatred becomes quite respectable, even though it has to masquerade often under the guise of patriotism.” ~ Howard Thurman From There to Here: We Gather Prelude Welcome The… Read more.
A Service of Celebration and Thanksgiving for the Life of C. Douglas Hindman
May 16, 1941 ~ September 3, 2023 October 7, 2023 1:00 pm Gathering Music Selections from “Four Seasons” Vivaldi Rina Tanaka, Piano Bell Introit Celtic Dance on “Pleading Savior” arr. S. Tucker Union Church Handbell Ensemble; Rina Tanaka, Piano Welcome & Opening Prayer Rev. Kent Gilbert, Pastor Readings Scripture : Job 12:7-10 Kent Gilbert Poem: “And… Read more.
Oct. 1 Announcements
Today is World Communion Sunday. We’ll do a blessing of the animals with our sister church, First Christian, from 4-6 at the Tillie Dog Park, on Harrison Ave. near the utilities building. Berea Shape Notes Group TODAY – all welcome! They will meet the first and third Sundays of every month in the parlor, at… Read more.
October 1, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am The Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost World Communion Sunday Meditation “If we could but recognize our common humanity, that we do belong together, that our destinies are bound up in one another’s, that we can be free only together, that… Read more.
September 24, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost 10:30 am About Today’s Service: The Fee Memorial Sanctuary of Union Church was begun in 1920 and completed in 1922. It was dedicated September 17, 1922 and it was the congregation’s intention to celebrate “the Grace in… Read more.
Sept. 17 Announcements
Berea Shape Notes Group TODAY – all welcome! They will meet the first and third Sundays of every month in the parlor, at 1:30. No experience or talent necessary! Come one, come all! Wednesday Evening Open Table – Supper is at 5:30 (provided—no need to bring anything), other activities and groups too, including Youth Group… Read more.
Sept. 17, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost 10:30 am Meditation For me, forgiveness and compassion are always linked: how do we hold people accountable for wrongdoing and yet at the same time remain in touch with their humanity enough to believe in their capacity… Read more.
Sept. 10 Announcements
Wednesday Evening meal, fun & fellowship Supper is at 5:30 (provided—no need to bring anything), other activities and groups too, including Youth Group at 6; ConneXions (for college students & young adults) and Handbell Ensemble rehearsal both at 6:30! Come for supper and hear all about it! Here’s this week’s menu: Chicken parm A veggie… Read more.
Sept. 10, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost Meditation “Freedom is won not on the battlefield but in the classroom and the home. Teach your children the history of freedom if you want them never to lose it.” ~Rabbi Shimon Raichik From There… Read more.
Sept. 3, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost Meditation “There is something in everyone of you that waits and listens for the sound of the genuine in yourself. It is the only true guide you will ever have. And if you cannot hear… Read more.
Kitchen Manager Position
August 27 Announcements
Please note that Union Church services are livestreamed & recorded. Children Are Welcome in the service, and a Staffed Nursery is available! The Return of Wednesday Evening meal, fun & fellowship Supper is at 5:30 (provided—no need to bring anything), other activities and groups too, including Youth Group at 6 (7th-12th graders); ConneXions (for… Read more.
August 27, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost 10:30 am Meditation “In diversity there is beauty and there is strength” ~Maya Angelou From There to Here: We Gather Prelude Welcome The Call Pamela Chabora, Reader Masons, when they start upon a building, Are careful… Read more.
WE STILL NEED ANOTHER NURSERY PROVIDER
THANKS EVERYONE!!!
A BIG, HUGE, THANK YOU to all who helped make the Community Creativity Celebration last night (Aug. 16) such a great success! If I missed any individuals name on the Thank you post, I apologize. Some of you registered to volunteer and I knew who you were, and others just jumped to help out wherever it… Read more.
August 20 Announcements
For Further Reflection Cross Roads: What is intersecting in your life right now? Make a short list. What “holy options” present themselves, even if only in your imagination? As you breathe, as you travel through the week, open your prayers to these options. What would it take to be able to follow where they lead?… Read more.
August 20, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost 10:30 am Meditation “Kindle in my heart within a flame of Love.” ~Celtic Prayer From There to Here: We Gather Prelude Welcome The Call One: I will light a light in the name of… Read more.
August 13 Announcements
Thank you, Larry! May thanks to Larry Brandenburg, show will sub for Bernardo Scarambone, who’s been away in Brazil visiting family. Behold the wonder of the stars… Tonight will be the peak of the Perseid meteor showers. If you are a night owl, just go outside and look northeast. No special equipment needed! Worship Greeters,… Read more.
August 13, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost Meditation An ethical precept is a question to be held up to the light of circumstance, an inquiry rather than an answer. And the nature of this inquiry is not so much the dubious enterprise… Read more.
Volunteer for Aug. 16 Event!
August 6, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am Tenth Sunday after Pentecost Meditation “You’ve got to prime the pump. You must have faith and believe. You’ve got to give of yourself ‘fore you’re worthy to receive. Drink all the water you can hold. Wash your face cool your… Read more.
July 30 Announcements
Rev. Kent will be visiting family in Colorado following the funeral of his cousin, Marty Quigley. He will be out of the office through August 4. Should you have pastoral needs, please call the church office and Rev. Carla will be happy assist. Thank you, Larry! May thanks to Larry Brandenburg, show will sub for… Read more.
July 30, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Ninth Sunday after Pentecost 10:30 am Meditation Oh love, my love, there springs a world, And on the world there shines a sun, And in the sun there burns a fire, Within the fire consumes my heart, And in my heart… Read more.
New Shape Note Group Begins Aug. 6
July 23 Announcements
Rev. Kent will be out of the pulpit next week, visiting family in Colorado following the funeral of his cousin, Marty Quigley. He will be out of the office July 24-August 4. Seth Hutchins, church family member and chaplain at Berea College will bring the word as preacher on July 30, and should you have… Read more.
July 23, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am Eighth Sunday after Pentecost Meditation “I wondered if we were put on this earth only to destroy every beautiful thing, to make chaos. Or were we meant to overcome this? Did bad things happen so that goodness could show through… Read more.
Community Creativity Celebration
The Community Creativity Celebration will be on the Church lawn, August 16, 5:00pm – 8:00pm for Adults and Kids and is designed to be an event for all of Berea. This will be a fun event to help us kick off the return of our Wednesday NIght Live meals and opportunites for fellowship, learning, and involvement… Read more.
Braver Angels President, David Blankenhorn to speak at Loyal Jones Applachian Center at Berea College
CONVERSATION CAFE
July 16 Announcements
New Members Welcomed Today! As a family of faith committed to boldly & creatively embodying the life and ministry of Jesus, we would like to join with YOU. We’d like to be a context and inspiration for your own spiritual path, and work with you to make your heart, your world, your life more peace-filled… Read more.
July 16, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Seventh Sunday after Pentecost 10:30 am Meditation For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there until they have watered the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and… Read more.
Solar Meter Now Live
At approximately 2:00 P.M. on June 21, 2016 the installation was completed, and 78 solar panels at Union Church went live! They are now generating what is expected to be at least 25% of the electricity that Union Church uses in a year’s time. Soon there will be a public display at church showing how… Read more.
July 9, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Sixth Sunday after Pentecost Celebration of the Lord’s Supper 10:30 am Meditation Well, we know where we’re goin’ But we don’t know where we’ve been And we know what we’re knowin’ But we can’t say what we’ve seen. And we’re not… Read more.
July 9 Announcements
Our Youth Group is headed to Louisville to do a service trip July 10-11! Sponsor a youth at $100 or give what you can to support this trip! Joan English, our Office Administrator, will be away on vacation next week. New Members Welcomed Next Week! As a family of faith committed to boldly & creatively… Read more.
July 2 Bulletin Announcements
Rev. Kent at United Church General Synod until July 5. Rev. Kent is away attending the national meeting of the United Church of Christ denomination in Indianapolis. The UCC has roots that date back 400 years to the arrival of the pilgrims in what is now Massachusetts, and through its abolitionist missionary society played a… Read more.
Sunday, July 2, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am Fifth Sunday after Pentecost Meditation “For things to reveal themselves to us, we need to be ready to abandon our views about them.” ~Thich Nhat Han From There to Here: We Gather Prelude Welcome The Call Jenny Bromley,… Read more.
Union Burger Bash and BLE Fundraiser
June 25 Bulletin Announcements
Rev. Kent to Attend United Church General Synod, June 28-July5. Rev. Kent will be away next Sunday attending the national meeting of the United Church of Christ denomination in Indianapolis. The UCC has roots that date back 400 years to the arrival of the pilgrims in what is now Massachusetts, and through its abolitionist missionary… Read more.
June 25, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am Fourth Sunday after Pentecost Meditation Though lovers be lost love shall not; and death shall have no dominion. ~Dylan Thomas From There to Here: We Gather Prelude Welcome The Call Gail Wolford, Reader One: Friends, we enter… Read more.
June 18 Bulletin Announcements
Mark Your Calendars! Did you miss last week’s potluck? Don’t fret—here comes another chance to get together!! Wednesday July 12th: 5:00pm – 8:00pm Union Church Burger Bash! Fundraiser for Berea Leadership Camp Scholarships At the City Park Shelter behind the pool. Bring side dishes/desserts to share and outdoor games to play. Church will provide burgers,… Read more.
June 18, 2023, Worship Bulletin and Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am, Third Sunday after Pentecost Meditation On your feet now – – applaud God! Bring a gift of laughter, sing yourselves into God’s presence. ~excerpt from Psalm 100, the Message From There to Here: We Gather Prelude Blue Heron Waltz… Read more.
June 11 Bulletin Announcements
Wednesday, June 14th: 5:30 – 7:00pm Potluck and More!!! Bring a dish to share. Church will provide drinks & table service Post-Meal Opportunities · Training for Worship Readers, greeters, singers, etc. · Games Night Group Play cards/board games w/friends · A Conversion with Rev. David Jones Join David as we discuss ideas, plans, and generate excitement about the… Read more.
Sunday, June 11, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am, Second Sunday after Pentecost Meditation “We shall not cease from exploration and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time.” ~T.S. Eliot From There to Here:… Read more.
Union Church Seeks Youth Director
The Youth Director is responsible for developing and organizing programs directed toward middle and senior high youth fellowship to aid their spiritual development. This position works closely with the Faith Development Board. Complete Job Description below: Please email a resume and letter of interest to office@union-church.org. Paper copies of the Job Description are available on request… Read more.
June 4 Bulletin Announcements
Rev. Kent Travelling Rev. Kent is visiting our sister city in as president of the Madison County International Committee, working to reinvigorate this cultural program after the pandemic. We ring the Peace Bell in service here next today and he will ring the companion bell in Hokuto, Japan. He returns to Berea on June 9…. Read more.
Potluck & More…
Bring a dish to share Church will provide drinks & table service Post-Meal Opportunities *Training for Worship Readers, greeters, singers, etc. *Games Night Group Play cards/board games w/friends *A Conversion with Rev. David Join David as we discuss ideas, plans, and generate excitement about the new, upcoming Weds. Night Live. We will also discuss needs… Read more.
Sunday, June 4, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am Trinity Sunday Meditation The doctrine of the Trinity is not closed. It can neither be discarded nor accepted in its traditional form. It must be kept open in order to fulfill its original function—to express in embracing symbols the… Read more.
May 28 Bulletin Announcements
Today is Pentecost! Pentecost celebrates the coming of the Holy Spirit 50 days after Easter. Pentecost is the birthday of the Christian church. Before Jesus was crucified, he told his disciples that the Holy Spirit would come after him: “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with… Read more.
May 28, 2023, Pentecost! Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am, Pentecost Sunday Meditation We need each other’s voice to sing, each other’s voice to love, each other’s views to help us bring our hearts to God above. Our lives like coals placed side by side to feed each other’s flame… Read more.
May 21 Bulletin Announcements
Next Sunday is Pentecost! Wear Red to Symbolize Flames of the Holy Spirit! Pentecost celebrates the coming of the Holy Spirit 50 days after Easter. Pentecost is the birthday of the Christian church. At Union Church, it’s become our custom to wear red to church to reflect the color of the tongues of fire that… Read more.
May 21, 2023, Worship Bulletin and Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am Seventh Sunday of Easter Meditation “You are about to start the greatest improvisation of all. With no script. No idea what’s going to happen, often with people and places you have never seen before. And you are not in… Read more.
May 14 Bulletin Announcements
Opportunities to be more involved in worship at Union Church! · Communion Bread Baker(s). Each month we bake gluten-free bread (from a mix) for communion. We are looking for a baker or team of bakers who can bake this bread on the Saturday before communion each month. · Worship Readers, Ushers, and Greeters. Everyone is welcome to… Read more.
May 14, 2023, Worship Bulletin and Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union May 14, 2023, Sixth Sunday of Easter Meditation “Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” ~ Howard Thurman From There to… Read more.
Kentucky’s SB150: A Resource Guide for the Trans and LGBTQ+ Community
2023 GRADUATE RECOGNITION
May 7 Bulletin Announcements
Berea Classic Chorale Spring Concert! On Friday, May 12 at 7:30 p.m. the Classic Chorale will present its Spring concert entitled, “How Can I Keep From Singing.” The program features 20th and 21st century choral music that celebrates the power and beauty of song and singing. The concert well be held in the Sanctuary of… Read more.
May 7, 2023 , Worship Bulletin and Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am, Fifth Sunday of Easter Meditation God to enfold me, God to surround me, God in my speaking, God in my thinking, God in my sleeping, God in my waking, God in my watching, God in my hoping, God in… Read more.
April 30, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am Fourth Sunday of Easter Meditation The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. God makes me lie down in green pastures; God leads me beside still waters; God restores my soul. ~ from Psalm 23 From There to… Read more.
April 30 Bulletin Announcements
To welcome in the May! Monday is May Day, and Morris Dancers around the globe will be dancing at dawn. Come cheer on our local dancers with Stanley Kramer playing. Monday May 1, 6:30 am in front of Erik Wesley’s house, 215 Peachbloom Hill Rd. Pew Cushions from the sanctuary are available if you want… Read more.
April 23, 2023 Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am Second Sunday of Easter Meditation “This earth is my sister; I love her daily grace, her silent daring, and how loved I am. How we admire this strength in each other, all that we have lost, all that we… Read more.
April 23 Announcements
Union Church is pleased to welcome “Four Shillings Short,” the husband/wife duo of Aodh Og O’Tuama from Cork, Ireland and Christy Martin from California, have been performing together since 1995. They tour in the US and Ireland, are independent folk-artists with 13 recordings, perform 100 concerts a year and live as the Troubadours of old… Read more.
April 16, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am Second Sunday of Easter Meditation The simplicity of coming back to life, as a flower, from desolation, the symbol now the fact, the same power, as if you rose up out of the ground, as everything in spring, in… Read more.
April 16, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am Second Sunday of Easter Meditation The simplicity of coming back to life, as a flower, from desolation, the symbol now the fact, the same power, as if you rose up out of the ground, as everything in spring, in… Read more.
April 16 Bulletin Announcements
Please note that Union Church services are livestreamed & recorded. Berea Leadership Experience – Partner with Us! Forming leaders who can successfully navigate the kinds of everyday conflicts we all experience. In 2016, friends of Berea College professor Michelle Tooley gathered to envision a way to honor her life of commitment to peace and… Read more.
Maundy Thursday Worship Service
A Service of Holy Communion & Tenebrae The Church of Christ, Union Maundy Thursday, April 6, 2023 7:00 pm Service of Foot and Hand Washing Jesus taught that leadership begins with service. The act of washing the feet of guests after a journey was usually the work of slaves, but Jesus insisted on washing the… Read more.
April 9 Bulletin Announcements
The church office will be closed next week. Berea Leadership Experience – Partner with Us! Forming leaders who can successfully navigate the kinds of everyday conflicts we all experience. In 2016, friends of Berea College professor Michelle Tooley gathered to envision a way to honor her life of commitment to peace and justice. They developed… Read more.
Palm Sunday, April 2, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am Meditation “O give thanks to God, for God is good; God’s steadfast love endures forever!” ~ Psalm 118:1-2,19-29 From There to Here: We Gather Prelude Welcome Song Show Us How to Love v.1 please join in singing!… Read more.
April 2 Bulletin Announcements
Special Holy Week & Easter Events at Union Church and Around Town · One Great Hour of Sharing Offering today! · April 6, 7:30 pm Maundy Thursday Service. Come at 7 for foot or hand-washing · April 7, noon, Community Good Friday Service, Berea United Methodist Church. Different pastors from various Berea churches will be part of the… Read more.
March 26 Bulletin Announcements
The One Great Hour of Sharing offering will be received on Palm Sunday, next week, April 2. Every dollar makes a difference! Funds will directly support relief to those suffering from recent climate crises and help fund anti-poverty initiatives around the world in a time of desperate need. Time for Easter lilies! You can order… Read more.
March 26, 2023, Fifth Sunday of Lent, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am Fifth Sunday of Lent Meditation “O Israel, hope in the Lord! For with the Lord there is steadfast love, and with him is greatpower to redeem.”~Psalm 130 From There to Here: We Gather Prelude Welcome Song Show… Read more.
Annual Reports
Every year the congregation meets in March to review the previous year and to look ahead for the next challenges. Check out these PDF annual reports from several previous years. You’ll find reflections from our staff, the major projects boards undertook, and the state of our finances at the end of each year, as well… Read more.
March 19, 2023, Fourth Sunday of Lent
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am Fourth Sunday of Lent Meditation “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. . . . You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil…”~Psalm 23 From There to Here: We Gather… Read more.
March 19 Bulletin Announcements
¨ Each week we join millions of Christians who pray for one another through the ecumenical prayer cycle and, locally, the Berea Ministerial Association’s prayer cycle (Link to World Council of Churches Ecumenical Prayer cycle. (union-church.org/ministries/prayer/). Let us hold the people of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania; and our brothers & sisters at the First Church of… Read more.
March 12, 2023, 3rd Sunday of Lent, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am, Third Sunday of Lent Meditation “O come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise… Read more.
March 12 Bulletin Announcements
Join the Church Next Week! New Members Welcomed Next Week! As a family of faith committed to boldly and creatively embodying the life and ministry of Jesus, we would like to join with YOU. We’d like to be a context and inspiration for your own spiritual path, and work with you to make your heart,… Read more.
March 5, 2023, Second Sunday of Lent, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am Second Sunday of Lent Meditation “I lift my eyes to the hills – from where will my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” ~Psalm 121 From There to Here: We Gather Prelude … Read more.
March 5 Bulletin Announcements
Please note that Union Church services are livestreamed. Dear Church Family, On Thursday the Kentucky House of Representatives passed a bill with the extremely misleading title of the “Do No Harm” act, which gravely impacts families in our congregation. House Bill 470 criminalizes all care for gender affirming services for anyone under 18,… Read more.
Small Group: Wholehearted Faith
Led by: Rev. David Jones, Program Coordinator Meet weekly from Lent to Easter, beginning March 7, to read and discuss Rachel Held Evans’ book, Wholehearted Faith. The group will meet hybrid style, both in-person and by zoom. The in-person option will meet in the Church Conference Room. If you can not meet in person, you may… Read more.
Feb. 26, 2023, First Sunday of Lent, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union First Sunday of Lent 10:30 am Meditation “You are a hiding place for me; you preserve me from trouble; you surround me with glad cries of deliverance.” ~ Psalm 32 From There to Here: We Gather Prelude Welcome Song… Read more.
Ash Wednesday, 2023, 7 pm
We Gather Welcome Call Upon the Threshold Hearts open, minds awake, change us now for heaven’s sake. Leave us not alone in hatred’s wake. Show us how to love. Show us how to love. Show us how, show us how to love. Eyes open, shocked awake, much to learn from our mistakes. Draw… Read more.
Feb. 19 Bulletin Announcements
Please note that Union Church services are livestreamed. Church World Service Earthquake Aid: the faithful of every nation are uniting to bring relief to the hundreds of thousands of victims in of the recent earthquakes in Asia Minor. Gift can be made online to Church World Service, https://cwsglobal.org/donate/turkiye-syria-earthquake-2023/, or designated on your check… Read more.
February 19, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Transfiguration Sunday 10:30 am Meditation “Awake, O my soul, to the beauty of the divine deep within you.” ~ John Philip Newell, Sacred Earth Sacred Soul From There to Here: We Gather Prelude Welcome ”Call to Worship ¨ Hymn… Read more.
Help Wanted: Union Church is Hiring for Several Positions
Book Keeper Position Our beloved Shirley Carlberg, our current book keeper, will be retiring on March 31, 2023. She has been doing this work since 2016 and prior she was our volunteer treasurer for five years. She is a joy to work with and loves working with numbers. We’ll celebrate her work as she moves… Read more.
Feb. 12 Bulletin Announcements
Please note that Union Church services are livestreamed. Church World Service Earthquake Aid: the faithful of every nation are uniting to bring relief to the hundreds of thousands of victims in of the recent earthquakes in Asia Minor. Gift can be made online to Church World Service, https://cwsglobal.org/donate/turkiye-syria-earthquake-2023/, or designated on your check… Read more.
February 12, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Sixth Sunday after the Epiphany 10:30 am Meditation It’s not about what’s happening, it’s about how we are with what’s happening. ~Sharon Salzberg, “A Guided Practice for Cultivating Attention” From There to Here: We Gather Prelude Welcome … Read more.
2023 Church Council minutes
Feb. 5 Bulletin Announcements
Please note that Union Church services are livestreamed. Pastoral Survey! The Pastoral Relations Board monitors the health of the relationship with our pastor and congregation. Periodic review our ministry needs and performance help us all accomplish God’s work. Rev. Kent joins us in asking for your input by filling out a comprehensive survey… Read more.
February 5, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany 10:30 am Meditation “When we no longer know what to do, we have come to our real work, and when we no longer know which way to go, we have begun our journey. The mind that… Read more.
January 29 Bulletin Announcements
Please note that Union Church services are livestreamed. New Members Welcomed today! As a family of faith committed to boldly and creatively embodying the life and ministry of Jesus, we would like to join with YOU. We’d like to be a context and inspiration for your own spiritual path, and work with you to… Read more.
January 29, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany 10:30 am Meditation There is a difference between happiness and wisdom: he that thinks himself the happiest man is really so; but he that thinks himself the wisest is generally the greatest fool. ~ Francis Bacon… Read more.
ConneXions (College Ministry)
January 22, 2023 Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Third Sunday after the Epiphany 10:30 am Meditation All the buried seeds crack open in the dark the instant they surrender to a process they can’t see. ~ Mark Nepo We Gather Prelude Welcome ¨ Call… Read more.
Jan. 15, 2023, Worship Bulletin and Prayer Concerns
Church of Christ, Union 10:30 am Second Sunday after the Epiphany Meditation “I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.” ~ Martin Luther King Jr We Gather Prelude Welcome ¨ Call to Worship One: Perfect Light of revelation, as you shone in the life… Read more.
Jan. 15 Bulletin Announcements
Please note that Union Church services are livestreamed. Celebrate Hattie Parks’ 100th birthday! Stay for cake in the parlor today! Rev. Kent will be out of the office from January 18 through January 25 for a week of vacation. Melissa Holland, Interim Executive Director of the Kentucky Council of Churches will preach with Dr…. Read more.
January 8, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Baptism of the Lord Meditation “I am like the water that runs over me, immune to permanence, recycling endlessly. I am water; I am life. The form may change, but the substance stays the same. Strike me down and I will… Read more.
January 8 Bulletin Announcements
Children Are Welcome in the service, and a Staffed Nursery is available! Please note that Union Church services are livestreamed. Celebrated Hattie Parks’ 100th birthday! Send cards to the office and we’ll give them to her on the 15th! (Union Church, 200 Prospect St., Berea, KY, 40403) Prayer in Action: The Kentucky Council… Read more.
January 1, 2023, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union New Year’s Day A Celebration of Epiphany Meditation I suppose when we take on January 1 the world will look the same. But there is a reminder of the Resurrection at the start of each new year, each new decade. That’s… Read more.
January 1, 2023 Bulletin Announcements
Announcements Children Are Welcome in the service, and a Staffed Nursery is available! Please note that Union Church services are livestreamed. Justice Candle Honorees sought. Would you like to nominate some folks for us to highlight? They can be living or dead, famous or not. We’d especially love stories of people who are local to… Read more.
Dec. 25, 2022, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Christmas Day 10:30 am Meditation God became man so that man might become divine. ~St. Athenasius the Great,4th Century C.E. From There to Here: We Gather Prelude Welcome and Invitation Welcome to this service of worship! ¨ The Call One: If… Read more.
Christmas Eve, 2022, 7:30 pm
Rev. Kent Gilbert, Pastor; Dr. Bernardo Scarambone, Director of Music; Pearl Marshall, Handbell Director; Larry Brandenburg, Organist; Iris Bailey, Opal Bailey, Chip & Diane Bailey, Jean Boyce, Sylvia From, Debbonnaire Kovacs, Readers Prelude Music From Heaven Above to Earth I Come F. Zachau He Is Born (French Carol) Raymond Haan What Is… Read more.
December 18, 2022, Worship Bulletin and Prayer Concerns
From There to Here: We Gather Hymn Sing Choose Your Favorites! Prelude Welcome and Invitation ¨ The Call One: When the sun rises what shall we sing? All: “My soul magnifies the Lord.” One: And when chaos and violence echo on the screen? All: “My soul magnifies the Lord.” One: For our God is a… Read more.
Dec. 18 Bulletin Announcements
Children Are Welcome in the service, and a Staffed Nursery is available! Please note that Union Church services are livestreamed, including the Children’s Moment. The balcony is a “no camera zone.” New Members Welcome! As a family of faith committed to boldly and creatively embodying the life and ministry of Jesus, we would like to… Read more.
Dec. 11, 2022, Worship Bulletin and Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Third Sunday of Advent 10:30 am Meditation “Joy does not simply happen to us. We have to choose joy and keep choosing it every day.” ~Henri Nouwen From There to Here: We Gather Hymn Sing Choose Your Favorites! Prelude Welcome… Read more.
Dec. 11 Bulletin Announcements
Children Are Welcome in the service, and a Staffed Nursery is available! Please note that Union Church services are livestreamed, including the Children’s Moment. A “no camera zone” is at the back of the balcony, behind the AV booth. Opening on Worship Board for one more member to help fulfill the important duties of serving… Read more.
Dec. 4, 2022, Second Sunday in Advent, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Second Sunday of Advent 10:30am Meditation “Only when we tap into the deep unspoken longings within us will we find the deep peace that begs to be taken seriously.” ~Kayla McClurg From There to Here: We Gather Hymn Sing Choose Your Favorites!… Read more.
Dec. 4 Bulletin Announcements
Children Are Welcome in the service, and a Staffed Nursery is available! Please note that Union Church services are livestreamed, including the Children’s Moment. A “no camera zone” is at the back of the balcony, behind the AV booth. Opening on Worship Board for one more member to help fulfill the important duties of serving… Read more.
Nov. 27, 2022, First Sunday in Advent Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union First Sunday of Advent 10:30 am Meditation What can’t wait? Hope for a better day. Peace and repentance. Joy and delight! Love for self, neighbor, Creator, and creation. God is waiting and ready. Step in! From There to Here: We… Read more.
Thanksgiving Eve Service
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union November 23, 2022 7:00 pm Meditation Dance, when you’re broken open. Dance, if you’ve torn the bandage off. Dance in the middle of the fighting. Dance in your blood. Dance, when you’re perfectly free. ~ Rumi The First Path: Recognizing… Read more.
Nov. 27 Bulletin Announcements
Want to help make our sanctuary beautiful for Advent & Christmas? We’ll order and pick up poinsettias for you! Please click & fill out the form to pay for & designate them in memory or in honor of someone and have their name printed in the bulletin. After the holidays, take your plants home to… Read more.
In Memoriam: Maurice Hibbard
Nov. 20, 2022, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Twenty-fourth Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 29) 10:30 am Meditation I took my horse, and rode five hundred miles, searching for a place where I could fulfill my mission. I did not know where I should go; but one thing was… Read more.
Advent and Christmas Events
There are things in this world that just can’t wait. Join us for a season of Expectation and Wonder! All services and events are free and open to the public. Debbonnaire Kovacs is offering a four-part audio story, read by a live fire, called The Christmas Dollar. It’s on her YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h0nwtbizVDE&list=PL5G92KVqktOK_ALKfWQtYqoVjUSGqZE67
Nov. 13, 2022 Bulletin Announcements
Coming Up Berea College Homecoming Next Weekend! Many events around campus and town, here’s what’s happening at Union Church: Saturday, Nov. 19 at 1:30 pm, Black Music Ensemble’s Homecoming Concert will be held in the sanctuary. All welcome, no charge Sunday, Nov. 20’s Worship Service, we will welcome Rev. LeSette Wright, Dean of Berea College’s… Read more.
Nov. 13, 2022, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Twenty-third Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 28) 10:30 am Meditation “Humanity’s great wisdom traditions are given not to compete with each other but to complete each other. We need each other as much as the species of the earth need one… Read more.
November 6, 2022, All Saints Sunday, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union All Saints Commemoration Twenty-second Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 27) 10:30 am Meditation Earth cannot escape heaven, Flee it by going up, Or flee it by going down, Heaven still invades the Earth, Energizes it, Makes it sacred. ~Meister Eckardt The… Read more.
Nov. 6 Bulletin Announcements
Children Are Welcome in the service, and a Staffed Nursery is available! Please note that Union Church services are livestreamed, including the Children’s Moment. A “no camera zone” is at the back of the balcony, behind the AV booth. Union Church’s Auction Event! Mark your calendars! The Union Church auction to benefit flood relief in… Read more.
ConneXions Student Ministries
October 30, 2022, Worship Bulletin and Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Twenty-first Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 26) 10:30 am Meditation We will never be able to build what we have not first cherished in our hearts. ~Joanna Macy and Sam Mowe, “The Work That Reconnects” The First Path: Recognizing the Inherent… Read more.
October 30 Announcements
Children Are Welcome in the service, and a Staffed Nursery is available! Please note that Union Church services are livestreamed, including the Children’s Moment. A “no camera zone” is at the back of the balcony, behind the AV booth. Climate Change Discussion Group today at 3 pm Important Climate Change Meeting Today, 3 pm Please… Read more.
Union Church’s Auction Event is LIVE!
Mark your calendars! The Union Church auction to benefit flood relief in Eastern Kentucky IS LIVE!Use this link to see and bid on these wonderful items– https://www.fordbrothersinc.com/auction/union-church-benefit-auction-for-eastern-ky-flood-relief—absolute-online-auction-64627/detailsAuction closes at 6 pm on Friday, November 11. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to bid on some fabulous treasures from art work and antiques to handmade baskets and… Read more.
Creation & Evolution: Must we Choose?
October 23, 2022, Worship Bulletin and Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 25) 10:30 am Meditation “When Christ was in pain we were in pain. All creatures of God’s creation that can suffer pain suffered with him. The sky and the earth failed at the time of Christ’s… Read more.
Oct. 23 Bulletin Announcements
Children Are Welcome in the service, and a Staffed Nursery is available! Please note that Union Church services are livestreamed, including the Children’s Moment. A “no camera zone” is at the back of the balcony, behind the AV booth. Today: Reproductive Justice: Why It Matters For Christians Join Rev. Kent and special guest, Margaret Velto,… Read more.
Why Public Policy Matters
Confirmation Recognition & Halloween Potluck, Oct. 30th
At 10:30am Oct. 30th we will recognize our Confirmation students for their 8 weeks of study and learning. Following the service, about 11:30am, we will have a Halloween Potluck Meal downstairs in the Community Room. Community Life and Growth will provide Soup (including a vegan option), table service and drinks. We will also have pumpkin… Read more.
Gathering of Friends Old & New
October 16, 2022, Worship Bulletin and Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 24) 10:30 am Meditation “Did you hear about the rose that grew from a crack in the concrete? Proving nature’s laws wrong, it learned to walk without having feet. Funny, it seems but by keeping… Read more.
Oct. 16 Announcements
Children Are Welcome in the service, and a Staffed Nursery is available! Please note that Union Church services are livestreamed, including the Children’s Moment. A “no camera zone” is at the back of the balcony, behind the AV booth. Today: New Members Welcomed! As a family of faith committed to boldly and creatively embodying the… Read more.
Beyond “The Talk:” Why and How to Talk to Youth About Sex
Support Choir Scholarship Students
October 2, 2022, Worship Bulletin & Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 22) World Communion Sunday 10:30 am Meditation No matter how different we are we will always be bonded with our faith…. Let us celebrate our faith and our unity on the occasion of World Communion… Read more.
Oct. 2 Announcements
COVID Guidelines Reviewed at Church Council Meeting, Sept. 19 Our goal is to make the updated guidance simple and ensure continuity of all church activities while empowering congregants to choose what makes them feel safe. ¨ Union Church recommends masks and will provide them at all building entrances. ¨ The sides of the sanctuary are set aside… Read more.
Sept. 25, 2022, Worship Bulletin and Prayer Concerns
A Gathering in Worship Offered by the People of the Church of Christ, Union Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 21) 10:30 am If you love friends, you will serve your friends. If you love community, you will serve your community. If you love money, you will serve your money. And if you love only yourself,… Read more.
Announcements for Sept 25
Happening at Union Church COVID Guidelines Reviewed at Church Council Meeting, Sept. 19 Our goal is to make the updated guidance simple and ensure continuity of all church activities while empowering congregants to choose what makes them feel safe. ¨ Union Church recommends masks and will provide them at all building entrances. ¨ The sides of the… Read more.
Sept. 18 Announcements
Children are welcome in the service or Nursery available · Please note that Union Church services are livestreamed, including the Children’s Moment. A “no camera zone” is at the back of the balcony, behind the AV booth. Today, new members welcomed! As a family of faith committed to boldly and creatively embodying the life and ministry… Read more.
Upcoming Events
Lawn Party/Ice Cream Social
ATWATER-DONNELLY DUO
PENTECOST PICNIC W/MAY POLE DANCE
Discussion: Abortion and the Faith Community
Discussion May 11, 7:00 pm The recent challenges to safe, legal abortion is already having profound consequences for women in our community. Those challenges may intensify if the Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade. Join Rev. Kent (Live in the Community Room or on Zoom) for a loving, faithful conversation about what can, and should,… Read more.
LEMONADE IN THE SHADE
Easter Egg Hunt, 2022
Current Student/Young Adult Study Dialogue Opportunity
Volunteer for Children’s Church/Ministries
Volunteer for Children’s Church/Ministries Union Church is seeking volunteers to be trained to serve as Children’s Church leaders and assistants. In order to offer Children’s Church, we need at least two adults present each week. We are seeking at least 4 volunteers, currently, to be trained and who are willing to be scheduled on a once a… Read more.
CONFIRMATION NEWS
CONFIRMATION NEWS Confirmation is a way your student can come to affirm their baptism and/or grow more deeply in their understanding of the Progressive Christian faith taught within our congregation’s values, vision, and mission. Your student will be connected with a Mentor who will attend at least 4 out the 18–20, 60-minute sessions, and will… Read more.