the
SPECTRUM A Guide to Services Provided by MCC Elders and Staff MCC
R
METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES
2 the SPECTRUM
Metropolitan Community Churches Governing Board
Rev. Elder Dr. Nancy Wilson Moderator
Rev. Onetta Brooks
T
Raquel Benítez
Liz Bisordi
Kareem Murphy
Vice Chair
Treasurer
Secretary
Rev. Tony Freeman
Rev. Dr. Robert Griffin
governance of the UFMCC between General Conferences.
The Governing Board is composed of nine persons,
four lay persons and four clergypersons, plus the Moderator, elected by the General Conference. They are
Rev. Dr. Candace Shultis
Responsibilities
he Governing Board is the body authorized by the General Conference to carry on the
Bryan Parker
• Ensure adequate resources
• Provide proper financial oversight
• Engage and participate in effective
organizational planning
• Ensure proper risk management
• Ensure effective management
responsible for the governance of UFMCC finances and
of human resources
operations and to serve as the corporation’s Board of
• Communicate with constituents
and other stakeholders
• Manage Board’s internal process
• Fulfill the Board’s role
Directors. As a result, they are responsible for all matters pertaining to Articles of Incorporation, all documents of legal organization, property, and finances of UFMCC.
The Governing Board is also responsible for MCC's
in UFMCC’s Bylaws process
• Support, assess and provide feedback
strategic planning and vision goals.
on the performance of the Moderator
The Governing Board receives emails at the following:
GoverningBoard@MCCchurch.net.
• Assess and evaluate Board
performance
From the Office of the Moderator
the SPECTRUM 3
It is our hope that this booklet will offer a key to all pastors, boards and MCC
churches to the many ways in which we want to serve you as your denominational leaders and staff.
It is an evolving tool that we believe will encourage you to access resources and
people who can support your ministry.
We believe that when we minister locally and globally, we are truly stronger
together.
God bless us as we continue to serve our communities with excellence! Grace and Peace, Rev. Elder Dr. Nancy L. Wilson Moderator, Metropolitan Community Churches
The Spectrum Office of Church Life and Health pages 4-7 Office of Emerging Ministries pages 8-11 Office of Formation & Leadership Development pages 12-15 Office of Operations pages 16-19 Office of MCC Moderator pages 20-21 Office of the Moderator’s Staff pages 22-23
The Spectrum is a guide to services provided by the elders and staff at Metropolitan Community Churches. Each MCC Office provides a tier of services. The first level is “Basic Services” and lists standard resources for affiliated churches, and in the case of the Office of Emerging Ministries, resources for new ministries and new church starts. At the second and third tier, each MCC Office lists information about Education Events and Consultation Services that are available for a fee. This guide also features staff members, their biographies, and a Staff Directory with contact information. ©Metropolitan Community Churches; 9.20.2012
4 the SPECTRUM
O
ffice of
Who We Are
C
hurch
L
ife &
H
Office Offerings
We are a team of professionals
Basic Services
with specific gifts and skills of
(Standard for Affiliated Churches) • Support for Pastoral Search Process • Support for Interim Placement • Interim Supervision • Online Resources • Pastoral Care and Support • Phone Consultation to Pastors and Boards • Guidance During Leadership Transitions • Ministry of Reconciliation • Ceremonial Events • Support/Supervision of Network Leaders • Training for Network Leaders
teaching, facilitating, consulting and coaching in the areas that most affect a church’s life and health.
What We Do We believe that leadership transitions, conflict, growth or decline, planning and external changes in a church’s environment are all moments in a church’s life that can cause it to emerge fresh and vibrant or mired and broken. Therefore, our job is to provide meaningful support, resources and consultation at pivotal moments in the church’s life that promote vitality, sustainability, growth, and health.
Where We Focus Our call is to offer consultation and provide external expertise to assess, diagnose, and prescribe a way forward for churches at pivotal times of transition.
ealth
Educational Events (Registration Fee, Travel Expenses Paid by Individual or Church) • Summits u Size u Programming u Stewardship u Worship u Preaching u Music • Interim Training • Leadership Excellence (in collaboration with the Office of Formation and Leadership Development) • Webinars
Consultation Services (Paid by Local Church as needed) • Summit Follow-ups • SWOT Analysis and Interpretation • Pastoral Coaching • Executive Coaching • Church Assessments and Organizational Analysis • Change Management/Church Transitions • Programming Infrastructure • Board of Directors Training • Conflict Intervention/Resolution • Strategic Planning • Church Size Assessments
OCLH Consultants
the SPECTRUM 5
Rev. Elder Lillie Brock Rev. Elder Lillie Brock has been a member of MCC for 30 years, was a pastor at The Cathedral of Hope and has been an elder for nine years. Before going into ministry, Rev. Brock was an Organizational Change Consultant and authored several books on the subject. She combines her business experience, love for churches and pastor’s heart to offer churches good strategy, inspired leadership, and compassionate presence. Books/Articles
The Secret to Getting through Life’s Difficult Changes Caring, Commitment and Choices The Change Cycle: How to Survive and Thrive during Organizational Change Excerpts: The Courage to be Awake, prepared for publication
Subject Matter Expert
Leadership Transitions Church Size Theory and Assessments Organizational Assessment/Consultation Preaching/Public Speaking
Certifications
CLM Master Trainer Conflict Resolution Situational Leadership Master Facilitation Skills Neuro-Linguistic Programming Systems Theory and Organizational Development
Education
Courses for Master of Education, University of Tennessee Courses for Master of Divinity, Perkins School of Theology, SMU B.A., Carson-Newman College
Kay Hale Kay Hale has been a member of MCC for 24 years and was an Administrative Assistant for 10 years at two different MCC churches before joining the denominational staff as Confidential Executive Administrative Assistant for Rev. Elder Lillie Brock. Before working for MCC, Kay was an Executive Administrative Assistant for the University of Texas Medical Center in Dallas, Texas. Subject Matter Expert
Customer Service Schedule Management PowerPoint presentations Meeting Preparation, Webinar set-up Design: advertisements, marketing materials, other documents Constant Contact Building spreadsheets and templates
Rev. Elder Ken Martin In 2012, Rev. Elder Ken Martin celebrated 50 years in ministry. He has been an MCC clergyperson for 38 years, has successfully pastored three MCC churches, and has been an MCC Elder for five years. He brings both educational and experiential wisdom when working with churches. A dynamic preacher, skilled teacher, and brilliant storyteller, Rev. Martin is adept at making even the most difficult challenges transform to opportunities. Articles/Sermons/Courses
Sexual Salvation Healing Your Divine Gay Child The Minister as Sex Educator and Counselor
Subject Matter Expert Sexuality and Spirituality Church Size Theory Preaching
Education
Courses for PhD, Institute for Advanced Study of Human Sexuality Courses for M.Div., Southern Baptist Theological Seminary B.A., Religious Studies, Ouachita Baptist University
Rev. Stedney Phillips Rev. Stedney Phillips has been a member of MCC for 27 years and has been an assistant to pastors and leaders for 25 years. Before being ordained in 2009, she served as an Intentional Interim Pastoral Leader for over two years with extensive experience in music ministry, worship planning and evangelism. She currently serves as an OCLH Church Life Specialist and is the Chair of MCC’s Asian Pacific Initiative Team. Education Work
Creating a Life that Matters UCC Interim Ministry Training
Subject Matter Expert
Church Size Theory and Assessments Interim Ministry Blended Worship
Education/Certification
Pacific School of Religion / Disciples Seminary Foundation, Certificate of Ministry Studies
OCLH Consultants
6 the SPECTRUM
Rev. Elder Arlene Ackerman Currently serving as MCC Resource Specialist for Church Development, Rev. Elder Arlene Ackerman has most recently created the Sample Policy Manual for the Local Church, the manual for Pastoral Search and the Board of Director Training material. Additionally, Rev. Ackerman mentors churches going through the pastoral search process as a service from OCLH. She also offers webinar training on church development. Rev. Ackerman became a member of MCC in 1974 and was credentialed as clergy in 1977. Since that time she has pastored small, medium and large churches in Bakersfield, CA, Portland, OR, and Minneapolis, MN. She also served as a Church Growth Consultant, District Coordinator for over ten years, and a Regional Elder for an additional eight years. Rev. Ackerman has served on the UFMCC Strategic Growth Initiative, taught Church Administration for the Samaritan Theological Institute, and chaired the Church Planting Initiative. She helped develop the MCC Youth Ministry Project which has taken young people on ministry trips to the Dominican Republic. Rev. Ackerman has been a frequent speaker at conferences and continues to do consulting with local churches. Subject Matter Expert Church Growth and Development Conflict Mediation Church/Pastoral Consulting Pastoral Search Church Management Church Planting Certifications Church Growth Leadership Development Church Planting Interim Pastor Education University of the Pacific Certified Drug and Alcohol Treatment Administration Focused Work in Psychology and Religious Study San Joaquin Junior College UC Davis Sacramento State University San Francisco State University Schuller Institute Alban Institute
Terry Curry Terry Curry is a volunteer staff member as one of two Network Leader coordinators in North America. Additionally, she serves as Lead of the Heartland Network, covering the states of Kansas, Missouri, Minnesota, Nebraska, Colorado, and Indianapolis, Indiana. Terry has been a member at MCC of Topeka since 1997. She has served on the Board of Directors, Buildings and Grounds Chair Person, Ministry Council Coordinator, and numerous ad hoc committees. Terry earned her LSCSW in 2012. She maintains her own private practice working with individuals, couples, and groups. Publications
“Boundaries in the Workplace” for Kansas Dialysis Services Nursing Staff, Topeka, KS “Surpassing Life’s Hurdles” for the National Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Gettysburg, PA
Licensure
Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker, LSCSW
Education
M.A., Social Work, Washburn University, Topeka, Kansas M.A., Science in Education - Sports Psychology - Adaptive PE, Exceptional Child, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas B.S., Counseling/Psychotherapy; Minor in Psychology, Geneva College
Rev. Gordon McCoy Rev. Gordon R. McCoy is a volunteer staff member as one of two Network Leader coordinators in North America. He was originally trained for professional ministry in the Presbyterian church. He graduated from McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago and then served as Pastor of three churches in that denomination. After several years of discernment, he sought and received credentialing as clergy in Metropolitan Community Churches. He served as Senior Pastor of Resurrection MCC in Chicago’s Hyde Park for ten years and received the “Clergyperson of the Year” award from MCC’s Great Lakes District in 1992. He served as the West Area Coordinator of the District from 1998-2002, and as Interim Pastor of MCC of the Fox Valley in Elgin for two years. His “Alternate Lectionary Readings for Pride Tide” have appeared regularly in ChiRhoPress’s Liturgical Calendar and Lectionary annually since the 2005-2006 Edition. Education
M.Div., McCormick Theological Seminary, Chicago B.A., Macalester College, St. Paul, MN Courses for MA in Public Admin., Northern Illinois University
OCLHCatalog
Central Organizer
Whether managing calendars for the elders or assisting you with responding to your inquiries and needs, or arranging for travel, Kay Hale is always eager to help.
Church Assessments & Organizational Analysis
Using a variety of tools and models, Rev. Brock has a keen eye for assessing the current state of congregations, diagnosing key challenges, and prescribing strategies for moving and overcoming those challenges.
Church Size Theory
Rev. Martin is a student and teacher of Church Size Theory, and is astute at taking the theory and giving it practical application. From assessment to recommendations to an implementation plan, Rev. Martin can serve as a skilled guide for your church.
Church Size Theory
Rev. Phillips is a student of Church Size Theory and has mastered the application of it to the local church, especially in churches under 200 in average weekly attendance. She is a dynamic teacher of these concepts and adept at providing guidance to churches as they implement plans related to size theory.
Customer Service Specialist
Kay Hale brings experience and the natural gifts to provide timely, courteous and excellent service. She not only provides this service but is available to assist those in your church who also provide customer service.
Executive Coaching
This is the set of skills that pastors were not taught in seminary! Rev. Brock can serve as an excellent coach and mentor for the role of the pastor that includes business and strategic decisions. It’s understandable that many don’t have these skills but it is now possible to learn them!
Network Leader Support
Kay Hale is always available to assist Network Leaders in whatever way they might need, from creating newsletters to setting up webinars to arranging conference calls.
Organizational Assessment
Especially in Family and Pastor Size churches, Rev. Phillips brings experience, analysis skills, and the ability to offer concrete recommendations based on holistic assessment. Here “outside eyes” are an enormous asset when churches are in transition.
Other workshops can be designed on demand.
Organizational Change & Transition
Rev. Brock brings a long career of working with organizations during times of transition. In recent years, she has used this expertise extensively in helping churches through significant shifts. Transition is a time of breakdown or breakthrough and Rev. Brock’s expertise is helping find the breakthrough.
Online and Electronic Resources
the SPECTRUM 7
OCLH Staff Rev. Elder Lillie Brock OCLH Co-Director Senior Leadership Team RevLillieBrock@MCCchurch.net Phone: +1.972.653.2735 Fax: +1.310.388.1252 Skype: RevLillie
Rev. Elder Ken Martin OCLH Co-Director Senior Leadership Team RevKenMartin@MCCchurch.net Phone: +1.972.653.2735 Fax: +1.310.388.1252 Skype: RevKenMartin
If you need to know where resources are for your church's needs, Kay Hale can help you find them or send them to you.
Rev. Elder Arlene Ackerman
Pastoral Support (Pastors in Crisis)
RevArleneAckerman@MCCchurch.net Phone: +1.717.368.2352 Fax: +1.310.388.1252 Skype: Rev.Arlene
Rev. Martin has the wisdom and experience of many years of parish ministry and as such, is skilled at both understanding the stress and comprehending the changes that bring healing and wholeness in the midst of crisis.
Pastoral Care
With a pastor’s heart and level head, Rev. Phillips uses her experience and natural gifts to guide pastors and others through difficult situations. She is gifted in prayer, discernment, and compassion, all of which she brings to the role of caring for people who are struggling.
Preaching
OCLH Resource Specialist for Church Development
Rev. Stedney Phillips Church Life Specialist Asian Pacific Initiative - Chair RevStedneyPhillips@MCCchurch.net Phone: +1.562.619.2032 Fax: +1.310.388.1252 Skype: revstedneyphillips
Rev. Martin is able to assist preachers in developing good sermon content as well as their own style of delivery.
Kay Hale
Size Summit Support
KayHale@MCCchurch.net Phone: +1.972.653.2735 Fax: +1.310.388.1252 Skype: Kay.Hale
From preparing assessments to tracking budgets, Kay Hale is a key team member and provides support for education Summit experiences.
Administrative Assistant to Rev. Brock and Rev. Martin
SWOT Analysis
Rev. Martin can assess the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats that are key markers for where a church is and where it needs to go. This is a helpful process whether a church is in the midst of growth, decline, conflict, or planning.
Worship Excellence
Rev. Martin has a passion for blended worship and brings practical experience about raising the bar in worship through planning, intentional blending, and creative use of space. Since visitors return to church because of the quality of the worship experience, this is an area that needs attention and Rev. Martin is an excellent resource.
Terry Curry Network Coordinator North America tccurry@gmail.com Skype: terracurra
Rev. Gordon McCoy Network Coordinator North America grmchitown@aol.com Skype: Gordon.R.McCoy
8 the SPECTRUM
O
ffice of
Who We Are We are a team of professionals who design pathways for entry into MCC by new churches and ministries, provide assistance with local church bylaws and affiliation matters, and provide external expertise as churches and emerging ministries celebrate and embrace the diverse, inclusive, and holy ministry to which MCC has been called.
What We Do We support development of new churches around the world, incubate ideas for innovative ministries, and strengthen MCC’s cross-cultural and governance competencies as all of MCC ministers in a rapidly changing, culturally-diverse world.
Where We Focus We focus on expanding the global impact of MCC ministry by providing meaningful support, resources, and consultation that will promote effective ministry, cross-cultural competency, and healthy governance.
E
merging
M
inistries
Office Offerings
Basic Services
(Standard for Church Starts and Non-Church Ministries) • Authorization and Support of Parish Extensions • Authorization, Support, and Supervision of Church Starts and New Ministries • Authorization and Support of Leaders • Short-term Consultation on Ideas for Non-church Ministries • Match Potential Supporters/Donors with Church Starts and New Ministries • Online Resources (Standard for Affiliated Churches) • Short-term Consultation on Diversity and Inclusion u People of African Descent u Accessibility u Trans*/Gender Nonconforming u Women u Young Adults (Under 35) u Older Adults (50+) u Heterosexuals • Consultation, Review, and Approval of Local Church Bylaws • Consultation on Local Church Governance and Risk Management • Grant Affiliation Status to New Church Starts and Special Ministries • Management of the Affiliation Process • Management of Church Closures • Management of the Disaffiliation Process • Support for MCC Congregations in Asia, Australasia, Canada, Europe, and Iberoamerica
Educational Events
(Registration Fee, Travel Expenses Paid by Individual or Church) • Webinars • Cross-Cultural Ministry Trips • Training for Leaders of New Church Starts • MCC Conference for People of African Descent, Friends, and Allies
Consultation Services
(Paid by Local Church as needed) • Consultation for New Church Starts • Consultation on Development of Innovative MCC Ministries Beyond the Local Church • Consultation and Workshops on Diversity and Inclusion in the Local Church • Diversity and Inclusion Assessments and Organizational Analysis • On-site Workshops on Local Church Governance and Risk Management
OEM Consultants
the SPECTRUM 9
Rev. Elder Darlene Garner Rev. Elder Darlene Garner is the Director of the Office of Emerging Ministries. She has been a member of MCC since 1976. Ordained by MCC in 1988, she served as Associate Pastor of MCC Philadelphia, Pastor of MCC Baltimore, and MCC of Northern Virginia in the United States, and Interim Pastor of Good Hope MCC in South Africa. Rev. Garner has been an Elder since 1993. Since 1998, she has been the convener of the MCC Conference for People of African Descent, Our Friends, and Allies. Rev. Garner served as Clerk of the denomination for ten years and Vice-Moderator for three years. She has also served as a member of the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations and heard complaints regarding discrimination including those for sexual orientation. She is currently a member of the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Religion and Faith Council and of the HRC Diversity and Inclusion Council. A dynamic preacher, Rev. Garner is adept at reconciling differences and finding a way for MCC to say "Yes" to innovative ministry ideas. Subject Matter Expert
Cross-cultural Ministry Diversity and Inclusion Conflict Mediation Local Church Governance Denominational Governance Church Size Theory Preaching and Public Speaking
Education
Courses for M.Div., Lancaster Theological Seminary Orientation to MCC Pastoring, Samaritan College Courses for B.A. in Business Administration, Ohio State University
Angel Collie Angel Collie is a transmasculine person from Bunn, NC. He leads MCC’s Transgender Ministries, serves on the LGBT-Religious Archives Network Advisory Committee, and was on the 2006 and 2007 Soulforce Equality Rides. Angel is active with the LGBTQ Coalition at Yale Divinity School and serves on the Diversity Committee. It is his hope to advocate on behalf of transgender, gender-non-conforming, and gender variant people in communities of faith. He said, “I am a shy, inked-up dork who likes exploring the intersections of faith, gender, and sexuality.” Education
2nd Year M.Div., Yale University Divinity School B.A., Religious Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Minor: Sexuality Studies, Women’s Studies
Rev. Elder Héctor Gutiérrez
Rev. Elder Héctor Gutiérrez has been a member of MCC since 2002. He has served as the Interim Pastor at ICM (MCC) Casa de Luz, Monterrey, Mexico; and as the Church Development Officer in Latin America. Rev. Gutiérrez has spent most of his career as a professor at universities and seminaries in Mexico. He provides pastoral support, wisdom, and advice for MCC groups, missions and churches in Iberoamerica. He also conducts workshops on a variety of topics for MCC's ministry in Iberoamerica and beyond. Rev. Gutiérrez’s pastoral presence and open spirit help him not only to hear but empathize with marginalized sisters and brothers across Iberoamerica. His ability to communicate complex theological concepts and God’s unconditional love has allowed him to rapidly develop new groups in different countries. Publications
Theological Perspectives for the New Millennium Jesus The Christ, Men And Women´s Liberator And Fulfillment The Image Of God As The Foundation Of Human Dignity
Subject Matter Expert
Planting Churches Internationally Theological Teachings Translations Workshops Development Ecumenical Language
Education
Pontifical Licentiate in Dogmatic Theology Guadalajara Seminary Mexico Pontifical University B.A. in Philosophy and Theology
Subject Matter Expert
Transgender Ministries Diversity and Inclusion Transgender and LGB Educational Workshops LGBTQ Spirituality International Advocacy
Involvement
CLGS Transgender RoundTable LGBT RAN Advisory Committee Yale Divinity School Diversity Committee Yale Divinity School LGBTQ Coalition
OEM Consultants
10 the SPECTRUM
Vickey Gibbs Vickey Gibbs celebrates more than 30 years of lay ministry in MCC. She has served MCC in numerous capacities on the local, district/regional, national and international levels. She has served in a local capacity in a variety of roles including Board of Directors, Board Clerk, Pastoral Search Committee, New Facility Task Force, Lay Delegate, teacher, speaker, pulpit supply, Council of Ministry, Community Liaison, Creating A Life That Matters Trainer, as well as an alto/ tenor in several choirs. She also served as the Confidential Executive Assistant to Rev. Dwayne Johnson at Resurrection MCC for ten years. Vickey has served nationally and internationally as a workshop presenter, conference project manager, co-creator of a Diversity Awareness Retreat, and People of African Descent Advisory Council member. She has worked in the offices of Rev. Elders Darlene Garner and Héctor Gutiérrez as a Confidential Executive Assistant and has served on numerous teams and committees such as the Size Summit Team, Healthy Church Initiative, People of African Descent Conference Planning Team, Church Planting, Bylaws Review and Judiciary Review Team. She also served as the administrator of the General Conference Business Meeting and the first Virtual General Conference. She currently works as Curriculum Resource Specialist and Consultant in the Office of Emerging Ministries. Books/Articles
Micro Inequities: Subtle Action Can Carry Big Messages Ways To Celebrate Diversity MCC Treasurer Manual (US Edition) MCC Deacon Manual MCC Diversity Awareness Series
Subject Area Expert
Project Management Liturgy and Curriculum Development Cultural Competency Workshops: Based on The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz Based on Money Enough: Everyday Practices for Living Faithfully by Douglas Hicks
Education & Certification
Pacific School of Religion Disciples Seminary Foundation MCC Certification of Leadership Training (in process) Creating a Life That Matters Trainer MCC Certification of Laity Empowered for Active Discipleship (in progress)
OEM Staff Rev. Elder Darlene Garner OEM Director Senior Leadership Team RevDarleneGarner@MCCchurch.net Phone: +1.281.201.0320 Fax: +1.310.388.1252 Skype: darlene.garner
Rev. Elder Héctor Gutiérrez OEM Associate Director Senior Leadership Team RevHectorGutierrez@MCCchurch.net Phone: +1.626.376.9915 Fax: +1.310.388.1252 Skype: gorylo2
Angel Collie MCC Transgender Ministries AngelCollie@MCCchurch.net Fax: +1.310.388.1252 Phone: +1.310.360.8640 x 207
Vickey Gibbs OEM Curriculum Specialist OEM Consultant VickeyGibbs@MCCchurch.net Office: +1.281.940.1558 Cell: +1.310.625.4177 Fax: +1.310.388.1252 Skype: Vickey.Gibbs
Jason O’Neill Network/Church Support Communications Coordinator JasonOneill@MCCchurch.net Phone: +1.508.246.8416 Fax: +1.310.388.1252 Skype: mccjason
OEMCatalog
DIVERSITY & INCLUSION
the SPECTRUM 11
Other workshops can be designed on demand.
The Inclusive Way Workshop
Rev. Garner and Vickey Gibbs bring their experience and gifts to churches that want to become more diverse. In a non-threatening way, they provide a theoretical framework for understanding differences of race, class, gender, gender-identity, and physical ability, as well as practical tools for creating inclusive communities of faith.
TransFaith: Ministry among Transgender People
Angel Collie is available to assist churches to welcome, affirm, and minister with Trans people. Whether your church wants a face-to-face workshop, consultation on resources, or networking opportunities for your church’s Trans ministry group, Angel is available to you.
GOVERNANCE All About Local Church Bylaws
The OEM is the place to go for approval for your church’s Bylaws. Rev. Garner is a student of Church Size Theory, understands MCC’s governance systems, and has mastered the development of governing documents that support ministry in the local church. She is a dynamic teacher of these concepts and adept at providing guidance to churches as they review and consider making changes to their Bylaws.
Board of Directors Training
This is an 8-hour on-site training for new and experienced Board members offered by Rev. Garner. This workshop reviews and applies the principles of church size as participants discover the authority and responsibilities of the Board positions, and how to accomplish many of the tasks.
Coaching for Church Treasurers and Clerks/Secretaries
As a supplement to the Church Treasurers Manual and the Board Training Manual, the Office of Emerging Ministries is available to coach church treasurers and clerks/secretaries.
Risk Management for the Local Church Rev. Garner is a student and teacher of risk management for the local church. She is astute at taking the theory and giving it practical application. From assessment to recommendations to an implementation plan, Rev. Garner can serve as a skilled guide for your church.
MINISTRY DEVELOPMENT Starting a New Church or Ministry Beyond a Local Church
Starting a new church or ministry in the name of MCC requires knowledge that is not readily available at a typical Church Planning Seminar or Workshop for Entrepreneurs! OEM has a guidebook and will walk the journey with you, from discerning an original idea to making sound business and strategic decisions, all the way to full recognition by MCC.
Are We Who We Say We Are?
Vickey Gibbs facilitates a workshop through which you will discern whether you are creating the church that is revealed in your current Mission, Vision, Values and Beliefs statements. If not, she will assist you in crafting new ones that reflect your current reality or your future hope.
Discovering What We Do Well
Vickey Gibbs works with your congregation to identify areas in which you are optimizing your potential and assist you in developing a strategy to maximize your strengths. She uses Appreciative Inquiry, which is an organizational development tool that focuses on increasing what an organization does well rather than on eliminating what it does badly. Proponents view Appreciate Inquiry as being applicable to organizations facing rapid change or growth.
Using Your Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats to Discover Your Identity
Vickey Gibbs takes your leadership team through a SWOT Analysis to understand your Strengths and Weaknesses, and to identify both the Opportunities open to you and the Threats you face. In a church context, a SWOT Analysis helps you define your specific outreach niche and develop ways to reach it. Use your SWOT results to define your target audience and set a strategic objective. You will also be able to paint a picture of what success looks like by clearly stating goals and deciding how to prioritize your church’s resources to reach your goals.
MINISTRY RESOURCES FOR SPANISH-SPEAKING PEOPLE: by Rev. Elder Héctor Gutiérrez (offered in Spanish) Knowing MCC Better
Rev. Gutiérrez outlines the history of MCC, especially in Iberoamerica, and presents the current MCC structure and systems. This workshop is a great resource for membership classes and a supplement to the MCC Polity Course.
Queer Theology
Rev. Gutiérrez offers this workshop through a Latino worldview. Participants can think and talk about God, the Bible, and religion from a queer perspective. The focus of the course is to motivate people from Iberoamerica to think theologically in a culturally-authentic way.
MCC: The Human Rights Church
Rev. Gutiérrez offers a workshop that explores MCC’s social justice work and presence as the Human Rights Church in the struggles faced because of homophobia and transphobia.
GLOBAL MINISTRY DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANTS Ministry Development in Africa Sharon Ludwig; sharon@goodhopemcc.org
Ministry Development in Canada Rev. Brent Hawkes; bhawkes@MCCToronto.com
Ministry Development in Hispanic U.S. Rev. Tania Guzman; Tguzman18@verizon.net
Ministry Development in Asia Rev. Stedney Phillips; RevStedneyPhillips@MCCchurch.net
Ministry Development in Eastern Europe Rev. Jim Mulcahy; revjimmulcahy@MCCchurch.net
Ministry Development in Latin America Rev. Elder Héctor Gutiérrez; RevHectorGutierrez@MCCchurch.net
Ministry Development in Australasia Rev. Elder Darlene Garner; RevDarleneGarner@MCCchurch.net
Minister Development in Western Europe Rev. Jane Clarke; janeclarke22@gmail.com
Ministry Development in the United States Rev. Carol Rawlings-Chambers; revclrc@gmail.com
12 the SPECTRUM
Office of F ormation & Leadership Development Who We Are We are a team of professionals with the passion, education, and training necessary to offer programs and personal assistance to develop leaders in MCC.
What We Do We believe that the most effective leaders in MCC are those who live “Undivided Lives” between their soul and their role. Spiritual Formation is at the heart of this kind of leadership. Therefore, our job is to provide
Office Offerings
Basic Services (Standard for Affiliated Churches) • Support for individuals discerning a call to professional ordained ministry • Guidance for selection of seminary and internship sites • Training for Supervising Pastors • Professional Licensure for MCC Clergy • Building relationships between MCC and our partner seminaries • Encouraging Theological Work in MCC and the Academy • Resources for Lay and Clergy Spiritual Formation • Support consultation in matters of conflict resolution or discernment between pastor and congregation • Healing work with congregations affected by a judiciary matter • Leadership training • Online resources • Clergy care and support • Certification for Laity Empowered for Active Discipleship (L.E.A.D.) and Creating a Life that Matters • Judiciary Process
training, certification, and
Educational Events
ongoing opportunities for clergy
(Registration Fee, Travel Expenses Paid by Individual or Church) • Readiness for Entering Vocational Ministry (REVM) • Online Courses u MCC Polity u Sexuality Studies u Queer History • L.E.A.D. Program • Leadership Mentoring Retreat • Clergy Retreats and Conferences • Weekly Lectionary Webinars • Summits (in consultation w/ Church Life and Health) • Webinars • Creating a Life that Matters Train the Trainer
and laity to deepen their spirituality and hone their leadership skills so that MCC churches can be places of wholeness for their communities.
Where We Focus The best way we have found to live into what we do is to offer programs, retreats, and trainings in a global context for the work of leadership development in MCC.
Consultation Services (Paid by Local Church as needed) • Spiritual Development workshops and retreats • Spiritual Direction for staff and leaders • Conference Plenaries • Leadership Program Assessment • Career Mapping
OFLD Consultants
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Rev. Dr. Kharma Amos Rev. Dr. Kharma Amos joined the OFLD Team at the end of 2011. She was ordained in MCC in 2002 and served for nine years as the Senior Pastor of Metropolitan Community Church of Northern Virginia. She served as a volunteer for nearly ten years in the ongoing work of clergy development, and was instrumental in the revision of MCC’s current credentialing system. Rev. Amos currently serves as the Chair of the MCC Theologies Team and as a member of the Board of Trustees for Lancaster Theological Seminary. Articles/Sermons/Courses
Queering Church: Integrating Queer Theology in Congregational Life in Metropolitan Community Churches "Too Political for My (Clerical) Shirt" in Split Ticket: Independent Faith in a Time of Partisan Politics (Chalice Press) MCC Theologies Team “Holy Conversations” Resource, Contributor and Co-Editor HRC’s Out in Scripture Commentary, Contributor
Subject Matter Expert
Pastoral Ministry Practical/Theoretical Integration Queer Theology
Education
D.Min., Episcopal Divinity School Fellow, First Parish Project, Lilly Foundation M.Div., Lancaster Theological Seminary B.A. in Religious Studies, University of Oregon
Save the Date
10 January 2013, 6:00 p.m. ET
Bi-Annual Webinar
for all In-Care students The next Bi-Annual Webinar for all In-Care students in the US and Canada will be held at 6:00 pm ET on Thursday, 10 January 2013. We will use the Virtual Office of Formation and Leadership Development space on Adobe Connect for video and a conference call line for audio. A separate email will be sent to all in-care students containing dial-in instructions.
Rev. Elder Mona West, PhD Rev. Elder Mona West, PhD has been an MCC Clergy for 16 years and an ordained minister for 24 years. She has served as a pastor in churches ranging in size from 3,000 to 100 members. Dr. West was the Academic Dean of Samaritan Institute—the school that trained clergy in MCC—from 1993-1997. Dr. West also holds a Ph.D. in Old Testament/Hebrew Bible and has taught Biblical Studies in a number of colleges and universities. Dr. West is a major voice in the area of Queer Biblical Interpretation. For the last 14 years, she has focused her study and energy in the areas of spirituality and leadership development. Books/Articles
Take Back the Word: A Queer Reading of the Bible (Pilgrim Press) The Queer Bible Commentary (SCM Press) Essays in Mercer’s Commentary on the Bible Numerous articles on biblical passages in journals and books HRC’s Out in Scripture Commentary, Contributor and Editorial Board Member Weekly columnist for Dallas’ gay newspaper, The Dallas Voice Seminary courses taught in areas of Sexuality Studies, Queer Biblical Interpretation, Biblical Spiritual Formation and Prayer
Subject Matter Expert
Spirituality Prayer Leadership Development Biblical Studies Queer Biblical Hermeneutics
Education and Certification
Certificate in Spiritual Formation, Columbia Seminary Ph.D. in Old Testament/Hebrew Bible, Southern Seminary M.Div., Southern Seminary B.A. in Religious Studies, Louisiana College
CREATING A LIFE
T H AT M AT T E R S
Need CLM Materials? Visit the website below to place your order. Allow six weeks for delivery. http://mccchurch.org/resources/creating-a-life-that-matters/
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FALL ONLINE COURSES
The following courses, which meet requirements for ordination in MCC and for the L.E.A.D. Certificate program, are being offered online soon. MCC Polity This course will consider the history, structure, and governance of Metropolitan Community Churches as well as the values, theologies, and cultures that have shaped MCC. This will be explored in the larger context of LGBTQ liberation movements and the global religious context. Dates: 8 October – 21 November Skype: Saturdays 13 October and 3 November Time: 1 pm ET (Final Papers/Projects Due 21 November) Instructor: Rev. Onetta Brooks Sexuality Studies This course provides students with basic information about human sexuality and offers an opportunity to become more comfortable talking about a variety of sexual issues. Students will also have an opportunity to assess the sexual health of oneself, professional ministry, and location of ministry, including preventing misconduct and sexual abuse. The course includes teachings/texts about sexuality from tradition, as well as denominational and congregational policies. Students will reflect theologically on the integration of sexuality and spirituality, and examine the impact of race, class, gender, and heterosexism on issues of sexuality in ministry. Dates: 1, 8, 15, 29 November and 6 December (No Class November 22 – Thanksgiving) Time: 8:00 – 10:00 ET Instructor: Rev. Chris Glaser
Metropolitan Community Churches Council of Elders Rev. Elder Darlene Garner Rev. Elder Héctor Gutiérrez Rev. Elder Dr. Nancy Wilson, Moderator Rev. Elder Mona West, PhD Rev. Elder Ken Martin Rev. Elder Lillie Brock
CLERGY Are You Seeking Opportunities for Personal Spiritual Growth? Collegial Connection and Support? Practical Tools to Improve Your Life, Relationships, and Ministry? Twelve Steps to a Compassionate Life Join us for a six-week clergy study and discussion group as we read Karen Armstrong's newest book. It is a very manageable read, yet it offers insights and practical exercises that, if applied, can literally change your life and renew your spirit. We believe reading it in dialogue with colleagues in a safe space for honest sharing will greatly enhance the experience.
Kharma Amos and BK Hipsher will convene and facilitate the group. The group will meet for 90 minutes on Wednesdays: 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 October at 5:00 pm ET / 9:00 pm UTC/GMT and 7 November at 5:00 pm ET / 10:00 pm UTC/GMT via Adobe Connect. Participants will need to commit to attending at least five of the sessions and must have a high speed Internet connection and web cam. Registration is $50 USD for all sessions. Three CEUs will be awarded. Register at:
http://tinyurl.com/CompassionateLife
OFLDCatalog
Discernment
Rev. Amos has worked with many people in the process of discerning their call to ministry. She is able to assist individuals from the beginning of their process, help them identify their questions, and plan strategically for the types of experiences they will need in order to best answer those questions.
Leadership Development
Dr. West has a particular interest in Parker Palmer’s approach to leadership development that focuses on living an undivided life as a leader through the support of Circles of Trust. Dr. West has completed a five retreat series on “The Courage to Lead” for clergy and congregational members. She incorporates the principles from Palmer’s Courage and Renewal Program into her work with churches and individuals.
MCC Judiciary Process Webinar
Rev. Elder Héctor Gutiérrez offers this Spanishlanguage webinar that explains the new MCC Judiciary Process. The same webinar is available in English through the Office of Formation and Leadership Development.
Mentoring
Rev. Amos has worked as a Supervising Clergy for a variety of MCC Interns who are now serving in active ministries. She is able to assist clergy as they exercise their role as a mentor for others discerning a call to ministry. She will work with pastors as they provide guidance about establishing learning goals and effective processes for evaluation.
Pastoral Ministry
Rev. Amos has a passion for pastoral ministry and holds herself accountable to the daily realities of congregational life. She enjoys working with students as they seek to integrate their theological education and “big ideas” with “on the ground” realities faced by MCC pastors. Rev. Amos will also work to support pastors as they continue their spiritual growth and leadership development in the midst of demanding ministries.
Other workshops can be designed on demand.
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OFLD Staff Rev. Elder Mona West, PhD OFLD Director Senior Leadership Team RevMonaWest@MCCchurch.net Phone: +1.484.885.8842 Fax: +1.310.388.1252
Program Development
As the Academic Dean of Samaritan, Dr. West revised the entire curriculum for clergy training in MCC and was the creator of the Clergy Intensive program. She most recently worked with a team to create the LEAD program for lay leadership development in MCC. Dr. West’s eye for program development can help in assessing leadership development for churches and networks.
Queer Biblical Hermeneutics
Dr. West was one of the early voices in developing the Queer Biblical Hermeneutics approach to reading and interpreting scripture. She continues to teach and publish in this area, and incorporates this work in the ongoing programmatic offerings of the OFLD.
Queer Theology
Rev. Amos believes ministry in MCC is a queer calling. She enjoys creatively exploring the unique challenges and opportunities of integrating queer theology in the fullness of congregational life.
Spiritual Development
Dr. West has been passionate and dedicated to her own spiritual development, which has led to certification by Columbia Seminary in this field. She is a Spiritual Director and a frequently requested facilitator for retreats and workshops. She has particular interest and training with the labyrinth, Taize worship, centering prayer, and lectio divina.
Rev. Kharma Amos OFLD Associate Director RevKharmaAmos@MCCchurch.net Phone: +1.571.243.3506 Fax: +1.310.388.1252 Skype: revkharma
Marina Laws Program Support: Fund Development, International Task Force OFLD MarinaLaws@MCCchurch.net Phone: +1.484.885.8842 Fax: +1.310.388.1252 Skype: MarinaCLaws
Advent Retreat with Rev. Elder Mona West, PhD This Advent Retreat will explore the spirituality of waiting. The retreat webinar will be based on an essay by Henri Nouwen, titled "Waiting for God" and will be followed by a series of follow-up emails. For the four Sundays of Advent, Rev. Elder West will send each retreat participant a poem, quote or writing with questions for journaling and reflection. Register: http://tinyurl.com/MCC-2012-Advent-Retreat
Dates: Saturday, December 1 Time: 1-2 pm ET / 6-7 pm UTC Cost: $50 USD for retreat
and follow-up emails
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O Who We Are We are a team of professionals whose cumulative expertise and experience give depth to key operational functions and offer partnership with the other offices and our local MCC churches.
What We Do It is our job to ensure that the day-to-day operations that undergird the worldwide MCC Movement are efficient, effective, cost-effective, and provide strength to the organization.
Where We Focus We focus on making MCC strong by managing our finances, building our brand and identity, providing timely and useful communication, planning conferences, and tracking and interpreting data.
ffice of
O
perations
Office Offerings
Basic Services: New Ministry Development (Standard for Affiliated Churches) • Support for Church Tithes and Tithe Reports • Day-to-Day Management of Denominational Funds • Manage Non-Profit Status Umbrella • Board of Pensions Support (USA) • Planning and Execution of General Conference • Provide External Communication Systems and Delivery • Creation and Maintenance of MCC Website • Oversight of Branding and Positioning of MCC Name and Image • One time consultations on Operational Issues for Churches: Real Estate, Human Resources, Marketing, Financial Management, Conference Planning, etc. • Administrative Support for MCC’s Governing Board • Administrative Support for MCC’s International Task Force
Educational Events (Registration Fee, Travel Expenses Paid by Individual or Church) • Brand Matters! A workshop facilitated by Director of Operations Barb Crabtree
Consultation Services (Paid by Local Church as needed) • Operational Audits • Trend Analysis • Communications and PR • Branding and Image Training • Utilizing Technology in Ministry • Planning and Executing Successful Conferences • Preparing, Executing, and Interpreting Surveys and other Data
Consultants
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Barbara Crabtree Barbara Crabtree has been a member of MCC for 25 years and the Director of Operations since June 2009. Barb brings executive experience to her position. Prior to joining the staff, Barb was Vice President and Senior Consultant at a large market research firm, leading global brand management studies for Fortune 100 companies. Since coming to MCC, Barb has streamlined MCC’s functions to maximize its service while minimizing costs. She has also prepared MCC for a new image and branding, and provided the denomination and Governing Board with timely and accurate financial and statistical data. Barb is experienced at interpreting a wide variety of data so that the organization can not only look back at vital information but reasonably project forward, enabling planning across the organization to take place with coordination and synergy. Subject Matter Expert
Financial Management and Analysis Data Analysis and Forecasting Brand Management and Marketing Market Research, Survey Design, Analysis 20+ years of Private Sector Executive Experience 25+ years of MCC Church Experience (Board of Directors, UFMCC Board of Administration)
Honors and Awards
Winner: David Ogilvy Award, Gold Level, for Hispanic Market Research for Bank of America Winner: Outstanding Supplier award from UPS for excellence in Market Research Support
Education
MBA in Operations Management and Marketing, William Simon Graduate School of Business, University of Rochester BS in Applied Science, Miami University, Ohio
Jennifer Justice Jennifer Justice has been a member of MCC since 1994 and has worked for the denomination since May 2005. Jennifer’s primary expertise is in conference planning and execution and is the driving force behind the logistics for MCC’s General Conference every three years. Jennifer is one of the MCC’s brilliant young adults who is passionate about MCC’s message for new generations to come. Subject Matter Expert Planning and Executing Conferences Travel Planning Young Adults and Ministry Education BA in Sociology, Texas Tech University
Operations Carlos Chavez
Carlos Chavez has been a member of the MCC staff since 1999. He has served in many capacities which include work with the former Office of Global Outreach where his translations and simultaneous interpretation played a key role in the inclusion of Latin American ministries in the work of the denomination. In the Office of Leadership Development, Carlos created and implemented virtual online spaces for individuals such as lay leaders and clergy to attend online classes and conduct meetings. His work with conferences and events has been as a core participant since 1999. Since 2006, Carlos has served as co-director of conferences and has helped to significantly reduce the costs of hosting conferences without degrading the quality of the programming while improving the experience for attendees. Carlos’ work with technology and logistics has successfully relocated MCC offices and its workforce multiple times. His creativity and eagerness to find innovative paths to incorporate technology and other tools has significantly lowered operations costs while enhancing staff, network, and team collaboration. His desire to address the value of utilizing social media has played a key role in putting an online face to MCC through video, images, and a diverse online presence. Carlos’ work with young adults in MCC brought forth the first Young Adult General Conference Worship Service which was planned and led solely by attendees under the age of 35. This significant event initiated a shift in the Governing Board’s priorities to include and increase programming directed toward youth and young adults. Currently, Carlos' work with MCC’s Young Adult ministry has led the way for an annual Young Adult Retreat and the inclusion of a Young Adult Worship Service at future General Conferences. Subject Matter Expert Information Technology and Digital Collaboration Social Media Young Adults and Ministry
Stay Connected with MCC on Social Network Sites
Consultants
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OPERATIONS Tammy Erwin
Tammy Erwin joined MCC’s accounting staff in 2008, and currently leads the Accounting Department. Tammy has over 30 years of professional experience in corporate accounting and management of business incorporation and non-profit status filings. In addition to her professional experience, Tammy has more than 12 years of Board of Directors service in MCC churches and other non-profit organizations, with much of that time serving as treasurer. In her staff role, Tammy has experience assisting churches to set up accounting systems and consulting on HR/benefits management and payroll systems. Subject Matter Expert HR/Benefits Management Payroll Systems Church Treasury Management Managing Non-profit Accounting
Bill Hooper Bill Hooper has worked for the denomination since March 2005 serving in various roles supporting the operations of MCC. Currently Bill’s primary contribution is Administrator of the UFMCC Board of Pensions USA, serving as the liaison between the Board and MCC clergy and churches. Bill also supports the Accounting Department and OFLD Clergy Licensing. Bill first attended Resurrection MCC Houston in 1985. Bill was a member of MCC of Greater Dallas 2003-2005 before moving to West Hollywood. He attended MCC Los Angeles 2005-2006 then became a member of Exodus MCC in Abilene, Texas, 2006-2012. He currently attends Church of the Trinity MCC in Sarasota, Florida. Prior to UFMCC Bill has 30 years business experience encompassing manufacturing, retail, wholesale, corporate and financial management. He also owned and operated two retail stores in the Houston Area. Subject Matter Expert Customer Service to Completion Flexibility in Supporting Operational Needs Financial Management Staff Trainer Education & Certification Commercial Art Major at West Texas A & M University. Certified Instructor by the Texas Education Department, Computer Applications.
Join Global Hearts and Hands for MCC's
2012 Fellowship Sunday Offering Campaign During October 2012, MCC churches around the world will join hearts and hands for the annual Fellowship Sunday Offering Campaign marking the 44th birthday of the MCC denomination, and the 40th anniversary of Rev. Dr. Nancy Wilson's ministry within MCC. Look for the new local church resource kit, 10 Creative Ways to Celebrate Fellowship Sunday, filled with news releases, newsletter articles, prayers, worship resources, and anniversary events to make this year's annual Fellowship Sunday Offering Campaign especially meaningful and celebratory for your congregation.
Rev. Dr. Nancy Wilson
Moderator, Metropolitan Community Churches
We warmly invite your church to participate in the 2012 Fellowship Sunday Offering Campaign because we're also stronger when we celebrate together! FellowshipSunday@MCCchurch.net
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Jason O’Neill Jason O’Neill has been a member of MCC since 2000. He has served multiple MCC churches in various capacities, including in the music ministry and on the board of directors. Jason has been a part of MCC denominational staff since 2007. He served as Confidential Executive Assistant to Rev. Elder Diane Fisher for over 4 years. Now he divides his time between the Office of Emerging Ministries and the Office of Operations, serving as Network/Church Support and Communications Coordinator. Jason believes in the universal concept of tithing and stewardship. Thus, he is a regular and generous donor to MCC, its ministries, and its partners. Subject Matter Expert
Creative Writing, Editing / Language Outreach Ecumenical / Interfaith Work Budgets / Finances / Stewardship Volunteer Coordination Blended Worship Research Communications, Networking Brainstorming / Creative Solutions Organizational Management Travel (international and domestic) Social Media
Barbara Crabtree Operations Director Senior Leadership Team BarbaraCrabtree@MCCchurch.net Phone: +1.678.438.9972 Fax: +1.310.388.1252 Skype: barbcrabtree
Director of Global Community Building and Strategic Implementation Information Technology CarlosChavez@MCCchurch.net Phone: +1.310.489.3899 Fax: +1.310.388.1252
Tammy Erwin Director of Accounting TammyErwin@MCCchurch.net Phone: +1.325.754.0851 Fax: +1.310.388.1252 Skype: tammyerwin
B.S. in Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station Personal Dynamics Leadership Training, New York MCC Leadership Mentoring Retreat, Florida Vocal Coaches – Linda Brice, Oregon; Michael Maresca, Texas
Bill Hooper
Where We Are
Administrator, Board of Pensions USA
As of 2012, MCC’s ministry is provided primarily in over 240 local congregations and ministry sites located in over 40 countries worldwide.
CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA El Salvador Argentina Honduras Bolivia Nicaragua Brazil Panama Chile Paraguay Colombia Costa Rica Uruguay Venezuela Ecuador
Staff
Carlos Chavez
Education & Certification
NORTH AMERICA Canada Mexico United States CARIBBEAN Cuba Dominican Republic Jamaica Puerto Rico
OPERATIONS
Jennifer Justice
EUROPE Denmark Romania England Russia France Scotland Germany Spain Ireland Ukraine Poland Wales
Director of Global Community Building and Strategic Implementation JenniferJustice@MCCchurch.net Phone: +1.213.447.2953 Fax: +1.310.388.1252 ASIA Malaysia The Philippines South Korea
AFRICA Kenya Nigeria South Africa
BillHooper@MCCchurch.net Phone: +1.310.625.4134 Fax: +1.310.388.1252
AUSTRALASIA Australia New Zealand
Jason O’Neill Network/Church Support Communications Coordinator JasonOneill@MCCchurch.net Phone: +1.508.246.8416 Fax: +1.310.388.1252 Skype: mccjason
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Office of the Moderator
The Moderator
The Rev. Elder Dr. Nancy L. Wilson is the Moderator of the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches. Founded in 1968 on Christian faith and the principal of full inclusion of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and supportive Christians, MCC has over 240 ministries in over 40 countries.
Moderator's Work Rev. Wilson leads the Governing Board in setting broad goals for the denomination and is accountable for those goals. She leads the Senior Leadership Team to implement vision and goals for MCC globally. As the international spokesperson for MCC, Rev. Wilson is also the Chief Pastor who moderates MCC's General Conferences.
Moderator's Focus As Moderator, Rev. Wilson's focus is to uphold the Vision and Mission of MCC, in addition to providing wisdom and initiate action in Global Governance and Denominational Leadership. Rev. Wilson strives to attract and manage support for key partnerships for global justice and human rights. As the public voice of MCC, Rev. Wilson creates the path to connect the local church to the global movement.
Key Partnerships
Ecumenical and Inter-religious Strategic Team The MCC Ecumenical and Inter-Religious Strategic Team guides the denominiations's ecumenical and inter-religious dialogues with a global focus. Appointed by Moderator Rev. Dr. Nancy Wilson, this team serves as a guide and reference for MCC’s historical ecumenical and inter-religious work. The team also recognizes and nurtures local church affiliations as invited.
http://mccchurch.org/ministries/ecumenism-interreligious/
The Fellowship of Affirming Ministries MCC has a dynamic and growing partnership with The Fellowship. They share in worship, training, conferences, resources, and events. Leaders of MCC and The Fellowship share clergy credentials and are co-founders of the Global Justice Institute.
http://www.radicallyinclusive.net
The Fellowship: Presiding Bishop Yvette A. Flunder
The Global Justice Institute The Global Justice Institute (GJI) is a separately incorporated justice and human rights arm of Metropolitan Community Churches and The Fellowship. Rev. Pat Bumgardner is the Executive Director and Rev. Joseph Tolton is the Director for Africa Affairs. MCC Moderator Rev. Dr. Nancy Wilson and Rev. Elder Héctor Gutiérrez serve on the GJI board in addition to three other international leaders. Members of the Global Justice Institute (GJI) meet with U.S. national leaders Feb. 2012 to address the persecution of LGBT Ugandans. From left: The Honorable Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook, U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom; Rev. Pat Bumgardner, Executive Director, GJI; Rev. Joseph Tolton, GJI Director for Africa Affairs; and Deputy Assistant Secretary Dr. Daniel Baer, U.S. State Department.
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Public Policy Team The Public Policy Team advises MCC's Moderator and the
Rev. Elder Dr. Nancy Wilson
Euro-Regional Center for Public Initiatives
Rev. Elder Dr. Nancy Wilson has been Moderator of MCC since 2005. She began her ministry with MCC at the age of 22 as Associate Pastor at MCC Boston in 1972. Rev. Wilson is an Associate Minister with The Fellowship, and in 2011 was appointed by President Barack Obama to the President’s Advisory Council on Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships. Rev. Wilson obtained her B.A. from Allegheny College, her M.Div. from St. Cyril and Methodius Seminary, and her D.Min. from Episcopal Divinity School.
The Euro-Regional Center for Public Initiatives is located in
Publications
leaders of The Fellowship on U.S. public policy as it impacts on human rights, LGBT rights, and HIV/AIDS. The Public Policy Team helps to shape faith-relevant responses to key issues, and engage and energize the churches. The team is staffed by key volunteers and is guided by the executive director of the Global Justice Institute.
Bucharest, Romania. MCC staff member Florin Buhuceanu is the director of this NGO (non-governmental organization). It was founded by MCC members who set out to promote human rights, including LGBT rights and women’s rights. The Center also provides legal advocacy on various human rights issues that intersect with religion. http://www.ecpi.ro
White House Council on Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships Moderator Rev. Dr. Nancy Wilson is a Presidential appointee to this Advisory Council.
Rev. Elder Don Eastman Rev. Elder Don Eastman has been one of MCC’s most passionate advocates for ministry excellence in local churches. In 1995, he created the Strategic Growth Initiative, which developed Benchmarks of Excellence in Ministry and provided training programs, consultation services and other resources to support thousands of local leaders in building healthier churches. In 1983, Rev. Eastman was elected to the MCC Board of Elders. He was re-elected for five additional terms, serving through 2007. He has served full-time as the denomination’s Second-Vice Moderator, Treasurer and Vice Moderator between 1986 and 2007. Rev. Eastman also served as Director of the UFMCC HIV/ AIDS Ministry from 1987 to 1996. He was a founding board member and the first chairperson of the AIDS National Interfaith Network from 1988 to 1992. Since 2011, Rev. Eastman has been serving as the Executive Pastor of MCC of Toronto for a two year interim period.
Our Tribe: Queer Folks, God, Jesus and the Bible (Alamo Press) with Fr. Malcolm Boyd, Amazing Grace Prayers and Poems included in Race and Prayer, edited by Malcolm Boyd and Chseter Talton (Moreverhouse Press)
Subject Matter Expert
Local Church Governance Denominational Governance Church Size Theory Preaching and Public Speaking
Honors and Awards
The First “Lazarus Award” from the Presbyterian Church Invited to Preach at the Earl Lectures at Pacific School of Religion (2002)
Education
D.Min., Episcopal Divinity School M.Div., St. Cyril and Methodius Seminary B.A. in Religion, Allegheny College
Articles/Sermons/Courses
Benchmarks of Excellence for Stewardship (1997, 2006, 2009) Benchmarks of Excellence for Leadership (1999, 2008, 2010) The Roles & Responsibilities of a Board of Directors in a Metropolitan Community Church (1995, 2006, 2012)
Subject Matter Expert
Church Development and Growth Contemporary Trends of Importance to Churches Leadership Development of Pastors, Staff and Lay Leaders Comprehensive Stewardship and Fundraising for Churches Strategic Planning for Churches Pastoral Transitions and Succession Planning for Churches Board of Directors Development for Churches
Education
Central Bible College, Religious Education Continuing Education: • Leading the Multiple Staff Church, Fuller Seminary • Breaking the 200 Barrier, Fuller Seminary • Robert Schuller Institute for Successful Church Leadership • Bishop and Church Executive Leadership Institute, Alban • Seminar for Church Consultants, Alban • Inside the Large Congregation, Alban
Staff
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Moderator's
Linda Brenner-Beckstead Linda Brenner-Beckstead has been a member of MCC for 17 years and joined the denominational staff in 2012 as Assistant to the Moderator for Rev. Dr. Nancy Wilson, and ITF Consultant to the Governing Board. Previously in Nebraska, Linda was a Network Co-Lead for the Heartland Network. At MCC Omaha, she served on the board of directors as moderator, was the marketing minister for four years, and a lay delegate in 2010. Publications
Contributor in Holy Conversations: a resource for local congregations. Ed. MCC Theologies Team
Subject Matter Expert
Design: Ads, Posters, Brochures, Logos using InDesign, Illustrator Photography, Videography, Photoshop Project Management
Education and Certification
Therapeutic Crisis Intervention Training (2011) Doane College, Graduate Courses: Video and Multimedia Production M.A. Curriculum and Instruction, University of Nebraska-Lincoln B.S. Secondary Education, Language Arts, University of NE-Lincoln
Marina Laws Marina Laws has been a member of MCC for 10 years and began working for the denomination in the UK in October 2008. She worked for two Elders as their assistant and looked after all administrative support for the previous Region 4. In 2011, Marina moved with her partner to the U.S. where she is the Program Support for the International Task Force, Fund Development and the Office of Formation and Leadership Development. Marina has coordinated regional conferences in Cape Town, South Africa, and Birmingham, UK. She has held memberships at MCC Bournemouth, MCC North London, MCC Portsmouth and Living Springs MCC in the UK; she has also been a lay delegate in the UK; her current membership is at Imago Dei MCC, USA, where she is part of the music ministry. Before joining MCC, Marina worked for 18 years with Dorset and Surrey Police Forces in the UK, and has also been a practice manager for a holistic chiropractic practice in the UK. Marina holds a qualification in Training for Restorative Interventions from Surrey Police and was awarded a Divisional Commanders Commendation for Policing Excellence. She was on a board of school governors in the UK; was awarded a certificate of appreciation and policing commitment from Her Majesty the Queen in the year of her Golden Jubilee. She graduated top of her classes in a Management Skills Development Course at Police HQ, Devon, as well as served as conference planner with the police on four UK Government Party Conferences.
Sharon Ludwig Florin Buhuceanu
Florin Buhuceanu has been a member of MCC since 2011. He coordinates activities in the areas of human rights, justice and MCC development in Eastern Europe. Florin leads ECPI, the Euro-Regional Center for Public Initiatives (www.ecpi.ro) based in Bucharest, a human rights foundation focused on sexual and reproductive rights. It is a partner entity of MCC and the Global Justice Institute that coordinates projects for combating religious-based homophobia in Eastern Europe. Publications Contributor to: Homoistorii (Homo histories), 2011 The Social Situation concerning Homophobia and Discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation in Romania, COWI Institute, 2009 Access to Health Care for LGBT people in Kyrgyzstan, 2007 Contributor: Equal at Work – Easy Access Guide for Practitioners, 2006 Education and Certification Orthodox Theology, University of Bucharest Training of Trainers in the Field of Antidiscrimination Brussels, European Commission
Sharon Cox Ludwig has been a member of MCC for 15 years. She has served in different positions in her local church – Good Hope MCC. She has served on the church council and pastoral search committees. Sharon heads up their Health and Wellness Ministry, and because Good Hope MCC has been predominantly lay lead, she also leads worship and provides pastoral care. Sharon has a passion for Africa and community ministry. She has volunteered and has worked in the LGBTI human rights sector for the past 15 years. Sharon has a postgraduate degree in psychology and criminology. Publications Featured in: To Have and To Hold: The Making of Same Sex Marriage in South Africa Miriam Dancing: An Anthology of True Stories by Lesbians, Bi-Sexual and Transgender Women
MODERATOR’S Catalog
Becoming a Youth/Young Adult Advocate in Your Community
Rev. Wilson discusses how to become a safe and supportive church for young people, and how to “give away” your church to youth and young adults in your neighborhood and world.
“For Those Who Know It Best!” The Moderator’s Top Ten Favorite Bible Stories and Passages A quick romp through the top ten stories Rev. Wilson loves to preach from and why—a different vision of the power of Biblical stories. Participants will have some fun and find fresh insight into familiar Biblical passages.
Gender, Race, and Class
Want to have a holy conversation about these challenges to identity and inclusivity in MCC? How can my church be a safe place to engage these deep issues of cultural connection and conflict? Rev. Wilson helps navigate through what the dynamics of gender, race, and class that can improve our ministry and help our churches grow.
Love the One You’re With
Rev. Wilson and her partner of 34 years, Dr. Paula Schoenwether, lead the workshop. For couples of any gender who are not in crisis, and who have been together for at least one year, this is a skillsbuilding workshop meant to offer concrete help to enrich and improve communication and intimacy.
MCC and the Ministry of Global Justice
How does MCC do justice work around the world? How is this key to our identity and mission? How can your local church be connected to this work? Rev. Wilson reveals answers to these questions in MCC and the Ministry of Global Justice.
MCC’s Theological History & Diversity How do we talk about what we believe? How do we embody our beliefs and values in the local church and denomination? How do theological labels help or hurt us? Rev. Wilson guides you through theological resources that are available in MCC for your local church, and how you can access them. She’ll also discuss how theological conversation can enrich your congregation’s spiritual life and identity.
Rev. Elder Dr. Nancy Wilson is available, as time permits, to preach, teach, and offer workshops at local churches, events, conferences, and universities.
MCC Today: Who Are We, and Who Are We Becoming This is a “big picture” workshop about MCC’s vision and mission globally, as a denomination and a movement. A historical/religious context for MCC is considered: who are we and what have we accomplished in 43 years. What is MCC’s Founding Narrative, and what do the early stories teach about our present and future? What will the next ten years demand of MCC? How will we respond to the needs and demands for MCC’s message and presence around the world. Rev. Wilson answers these questions and more as she considers the future of MCC.
Outing the Bible
Why is the Bible important to MCC, to queer people of faith? What does queer scripture scholarship say about LGBT and straight, non-conforming characters and references in the Bible? Moving beyond the “defense” and the “clobber” passages, what are we learning about the Bible’s queer-ness? Why is it important for people who are not even religious to understand this perspective? Rev. Wilson provides clarity in this workshop, “Outing the Bible.”
The Ten Commandments for Unlearning and Overcoming Racism in your Local Church
Rev. Wilson helps you take the mystery out of a tough topic, offering some practical principles and “how to’s” to prepare your church and leadership to be more aware and active in combating racism and its consequences.
Trust is a Queer Thing
How do we engender trust and develop trustworthy leaders for the next phase of MCC, locally and globally? How do we repair trust that has been broken? How is mistrust a barrier to growth? Rev. Wilson brings eight key principles of building trust in your church and community to create a more effective witness and ministry.
What Does a Moderator Do, Anyway?
Rev. Wilson talks about leadership in MCC, how the role of Moderator has morphed in forty-plus years, and what might the future of this role be in MCC. What is a typical day, week, or month like? What are the joys and challenges? Hear her testimony and journey in MCC.
the SPECTRUM 23
MODERATOR’S Staff Rev. Elder Dr. Nancy Wilson Moderator Senior Leadership Team RevNancyWilson@MCCchurch.net Phone: +1.941.755.5771 Fax: +1.310.388.1252
Rev. Elder Don Eastman Consultant RevDonEastman@MCCchurch.net Fax: +1.310.388.1252
Linda Brenner-Beckstead Assistant to the Moderator International Task Force (ITF), Consultant to the Governing Board Linda@MCCchurch.net Phone: +1.941.755.5771 Fax: +1.310.388.1252 Skype: lindabrennerbeckstead
Florin Buhuceanu Eastern European Coordinator FlorinBuhuceanu@yahoo.com Skype: florin.buhuceanu
Marina Laws Program Support: Fund Development International Task Force OFLD MarinaLaws@MCCchurch.net Phone: +1.484.885.8842 Fax: +1.310.388.1252 Skype: marinaclaws
Sharon Ludwig Africa Development Worker SharonLudwig@MCCchurch.net Skype: sharonl34
MCC 速
METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES
believe General Conference XXV 1-5 July 2013 Chicago, Illinois USA believe.mccchurch.org