Fall 2023 Pathways

PATHWAYS

FOLLOWING JESUS ONE STEP AT A TIME

FALL

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER

2023

GROWING TOGETHER!

NEW

GRIEFSHARE ADULT DISCIPLESHIP JOURNEY

FOR YOU

MEN, WOMEN, PARENTS, YOUTH, AND MORE

Dear Friends,

With the summer season reaching its twilight, the air around us has cooled a bit as autumn approaches. Labor Day weekend, football openers, the smell of new school supplies, the Washington State Fair –they all remind us that a new season is upon us!

It is another new season at UPPC as well! Four times a year we release a new Pathways. Pathways is a celebration of what God is doing in this community and a catalog of opportunities for you to grow in your journey with Jesus. Many of these pathways are led by people just like you. If you are involved in a discipleship activity (Bible study, prayer, service, etc) and you want others to get involved, we want to hear from you!

The staff and session of UPPC hope you’ll find new ways to grow as Jesus’ disciple through your knowledge of scripture, your practice of prayer, building new community, and blessing the world through service.

I am excited for this next season and am praying that the Holy Spirit will empower and inspire you as we journey with Jesus together!

Truly, Pastor Mike

Worship with us

ON CAMPUS

If you would like to have a discipleship activity included in the January Pathways, reach out to Pastor Mike. mmoffitt@uppc.org

Gather in person for worship on Sundays. We are here to welcome you!

Worship opportunities available at both services for kids, Pre-K through Grade 12.

ONLINE

Worship with us via the LIVE stream for both services on Sundays! Visit UPPC.org/live to connect with community and engage in worship.

WORSHIP TOGETHER

SUNDAY MORNINGS

9:30am ClassiC Worship

11am Contemporary Worship

COMING THIS FALL...

Adults

Meet the Pastors

Sundays | September 17, October 15, November 19 | 12:15pm

New to UPPC? We would love to get to know you. Meet the pastors, staff and others in the UPPC community in the Family Worship Room directly after the 11am service. Coffee is on us! Questions? Contact Kathy Goertz | kgoertz@uppc.org. No registration necessary!

Faith & Literature

Wednesday | October 4 | 7 - 9pm

UPPC’s Book Club. will meet this fall to discuss The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocomb. Every other month, the group meets and discusses a well-written book. For details, contact Marion Tilley | davemannie@comcast.net.

Friendship in The Wayside! (55+)

Thursdays | September 14, October 19, November 16, December 7 | 11:15am-1:00pm

Hosted by the Deacons in The Wayside. Bring a friend for a light lunch and to catch up with others! The Wayside café will be open and purchases will support UPPC youth ministries. It’s a great time of fellowship! Contact Jill McMullen with questions or to arrange transportation. No registration required. jmcmullen@uppc.org | 253.564-2522 ext.139

Friendship ESL (English as a Second Language)

Wednesdays beginning September 13 | 9-10am | Zoom

This class is designed for adults who speak basic English, but who want to improve their conversational skills, grow their vocabulary, or learn more about American culture. Volunteers are needed to be conversation partners with students. For more information about the class or to volunteer, contact Marion Tilley. davemannie@comcast.net.

MOPS Volunteers

2nd & 4th Monday mornings | UPPC

Do you have experience to share or time to give? MOPS is looking for those who would like to care for babies and kids in our MOPS program. We are at capacity and need loving arms for babes as their mommas receive some much needed time of rejuvenation. If you are able or know someone who is, email us! uppc.mops@gmail.com

The Discipleship Journey

Alpha

Sundays beginning Sept 17 | 5:30-7:30pm

Get acquainted with the landscape of Christianity at Alpha - People need a space to ask the big questions of life in a place where they will be accepted and belong. Alpha is that place. Enjoy dinner, and explore meaning, faith, and the basics of Christianity among new friends for eleven weeks this fall. Childcare is available with registration. Learn more at UPPC.org/events.

Rooted

Sundays beginning Sept 17 | 5:30-7:30pm

Rooted is a small group experience that will teach you how to practice rhythms essential to a healthy and active relationship with Jesus. Enjoy daily reading and journaling in your new book, then come together weekly to share and listen in a safe space. Includes dinner! Childcare available with registration. UPPC.org/events

Flourishing

Sundays beginning Sept 17 | 5:30-7:30pm

Explore God’s vision for human flourishing, the challenges that hinder flourishing within our local community, and how God is inviting us to bring healing, hope, and transformation for others. Hear from guest speakers, examine your own gifts and context, and reflect upon how God has uniquely prepared you to help others flourish. Includes dinner! Childcare available with registration. UPPC.org/events

Essentials

Sunday November 5 | 3-7pm

Our Essentials membership class is a great way to learn more about UPPC and to discover how you fit into this community of believers and Christ followers. There IS a place for you, and Essentials is a great way to explore the opportunities. Learn more and register at uppc.org/events.

Equipping

Sunday December 10 | 3-7pm

Equipping is an intensive, one-day small group led by Pastor Mike Moffitt to explore the Four Discipleship Fundamentals. You’ll get actual pieces of discipleship “equipment” and an overview of the basic skills needed for following Jesus. Watch for registration details coming soon at UPPC.org/events.

ASK QUESTIONS, MAKE ROOM AND TAKE THE NEXT STEPS ON YOUR JOURNEY!

Groups for Men & Women

The Den

2nd & 4th Wednesdays | 6:30-7:30pm

Join with other guys to tackle some of life’s challenges together. The Den is about men helping men to be better, Godly men through a Gospel-centered vision of life. Contact Bob Baker | rbaker315@gmail.com. Meeting in Fellowship Hall.

The Well

1st & 3rd Wednesdays | 6:30-7:30pm

Join other women as we gather to learn, support one another and explore the HOPE and TRUTH in God’s Word for our REAL, daily lives. Our time together includes video, group discussion, and prayer. Come early and grab a drink at The Wayside café! Come as you are, when you can! Childcare available with registration. Questions? Contact Kathy Overlease | bravofam2018@ gmail.com. Meeting in Fellowship Hall.

Mingle

2nd & 4th Wednesdays | 6:30-7:30pm

Join other women for an informal time of connection and conversation. Mingle with friends you know, and meet new ones! A great way to spend an hour while your kids are at youth group. Contact Jenn Boucher with questions. jennifer-boucher@ hotmail.com.

MOPS

2nd & 4th Mondays | 9:15-11:30am

Gather with other Moms of Preschoolers to connect, eat and find support and encouragement in a welcoming and friendly place. Registration for fall is currently closed. Contact Kallie Williams with questions. mattiesgirl79@hotmail.com

Young Adults

CROSSROADS

Crossroads is for young adults age 18+ looking for community at UPPC. Follow @uppcyoungadults on Instagram for up-to-date information about our fall events or contact eriverman@uppc.org.

Bible Studies

Women’s Thursday Bible Study

Thursdays 9:30-11am | Fellowship Hall

The Place of Prayer in Our Lives - Please join us as we look into the Scriptures and discuss the meaning and the power of prayer. Led by Sharon Moffitt. Drop-ins welcome.

Men’s Monday Morning Bible Study

Mondays | 6:30-7:30am | Zoom

Start your week off with a fellowship of praying and devoted men as we read and discuss the Bible. For more information, contact Bob Mohr. | bobmohr1942@gmail.com

Men’s Wednesday Morning Bible Study

Wednesdays | 9-10am

Join a mid-week pick-me-up of prayer and fellowship as we seek to grow through reading and discussing the Bible. For more information, contact Bob Mohr. | bobmohr1942@gmail.com

Bible Study Fellowship

Mondays | 6:30pm | UPPC

Tacoma area men’s group, women’s group and kid’s programs all meet at UPPC. This is a great opportunity for the whole family. In person and online option available. Men contact Bob Somerville | bsomerville777@gmail.com. Women contact Jackie Jones | jackie.jones98@yahoo.com.

Bible Study for All

Wednesdays | 10 - 11:30am

Come as you are, no sign-up necessary! Join Gwenn Robertson and friends in this weekly exploration of the Bible through video lessons, discussion, prayer, and fellowship. Contact Gwen with questions. gwenandbenny@gmail.com

Care Ministries

Prayer at UPPC

There are multiple opportunities to pray for others at UPPC. Prayer Chain: This group prays for requests that come in through prayerrequests@uppc.org.

Thursday Morning Prayer: Gathering Thursday mornings, this group prays for the church and its ministries. If you are interested in joining us in prayer, please contact Jill McMullen. jmcmullen@uppc.org | 253.564.2522 ext 139

Women’s Cancer Support Group

2nd Tuesdays | 1-2:30pm | Zoom

The Women’s Cancer Support Group welcomes all women who are in the midst of treatment for cancer as well as women who have survived cancer. We are there to support each other and watch the Holy Spirit at work among us. Contact Sue Walen, frogfingers@comcast.net.

Tacoma Prostate Cancer Support Group

4th Tuesdays | 6:30-8pm | Zoom

To learn more about this group, contact Bob Freeborn at raf0444@comcast.net.

Sew & Reap

2nd & 4th Tuesdays | 10am-2pm | Room 121

Bring a lunch and gather in fellowship as we create quilts to be donated to various shelters such as Coffee Oasis for homeless teenagers. Drop by and share your gifts.

Special Needs Parent Support Group

Parent Support Group is for those with children of any age living with special needs, different abilities, or sensory issues. Join us for a time of sharing and support. Email Martha Greene at mgreene@uppc.org for more information.

Divorce Recovery

Thursdays Sept 14-Oct 26 | 6:15-8:45pm | Fellowship Hall

Do you know someone who has experienced divorce? It takes courage and humility to confront our deepest questions and fears. Divorce Recovery at UPPC is a safe place to share your thoughts, feelings and emotions and to begin the process of healing through faith, hope and love. Registration includes dinner and space for kids experiencing divorce. Register today at UPPC.org/events.

Grief Share

WATCH FOR NEXT SESSION DATES

GriefShare, a 13 week seminar and support group designed to offer help and encouragement after the death of a spouse, child, family member, or friend. Our caring group of leaders have experienced grief and will help you through the difficult days ahead as you begin to rebuild your life after loss. We know it hurts, and we want to support you. Watch for upcoming dates to register or contact Jill McMullen for more information.

jmcmullen@uppc.org | 253.564.2522 ext 139

UPPC in the World

Intergenerational Service Trip

February 15-19, 2024

Next Trip Info Meeting

October 22

Join us to learn the exciting details of this cross-cultural, all-ages service trip through our mission partners in El Nino, Mexico. Meet in the Youth Room after the 11:00am service. Registration is open at UPPC.org/events

American South Peacemaking Pilgrimage

June 25-July 3, 2024

Informational Session

October 22

You are invited to engage in the story. The American South Pilgrimage,gives an opportunity for us to learn how to tell a more true and honest American story and help bring healing and repair within our local community. Join us in the Gym after each service. More at UPPC.org/events

Holy Land Peacemaking Pilgrimage

September 20-29, 2024

Interest Meetings

October 8 & 29

Get an overview of the trip, hear a testimonial from a previous attendee, and walk away feeling encouraged that it might be time for you to make a “peacemaking pilgrimage” to the land of the Bible. Meet in the Gym after each service. Join the interest list at UPPC.org/events.

Hope Inspired

Coming in March...

Mark your calendars and join UPPC Women’s Ministries for an amazing day of fellowship and rejuvenation this spring! Worship, fellowship and exploration into how we reconcile the dreams we have for ourselves with the plans God has for us— and how surrendering to God’s way leads to new resilience and hope. Watch for more information to come and a very special guest teacher announcement! SAVE

A Night for Parents

Alpha Marriage Course

Sundays | October 1 - November 19 | 5:30 - 7:30pm

The Alpha Marriage Course is for couples wanting to invest in the health and joy of their relationship. This 7-week experience is meant to deepen and strengthen your marriage, and the content is great for dating and engaged couples too! You don’t need to be part of UPPC or any church -- you are invited to the Alpha Marriage Course. Enjoy dinner, socializing, and a great night of growing together! Register at UPPC.org/events

Youth & Children

Cornerstone (Grades 10-12)

Wednesdays 8-9pm | Youth Room

Time for High Schoolers to hang out with friends, de-stress, sing songs, play games, and learn more about faith. Together, we discover who God is and give students the life tools to build an identity around the true cornerstone: Jesus Christ

The Rock (Grades 8-9)

Wednesdays 8-9pm | The Lodge

UPPC’s midweek youth group for Junior High Students. At the Rock, we take a break from the busy week to be together in community, play some games, and discover together what it means to follow Jesus Christ.

Foundation (Grades 5-7)

Wednesdays 6:30-7:30pm | The Youth Room

Come have fun, make new friendships, or deepen old ones. We’ll have lots of fun and discover together who God is and how your story intersects with his story.

Campfire (Grades 1-4)

Wednesdays 6:30-7:30pm | The Lodge

Learn about Jesus, play crazy games and create cool art. We are doing drive-by drop off and pick up so parents don’t need to park and leave their cars. We will be playing on the UPPC playground when it is dry so please dress accordingly!

High School Small Groups

GET CONNECTED

Contact Lexi Barnett for more information. lbarnett@uppc.org

SUNDAYS

Solid Ground on Sundays

Grades 5-9 | 9:30 & 11am | Youth Room

Students start in the sanctuary and then will gather together for a service designed for youth where they will be challenged to learn more about Jesus together.

UPPC Kids Sunday School

Sundays 9:30 & 11am

Children in grades 1-4 start in the Sanctuary with their parents and are released to go to Sunday School in the Lodge before the sermon. At Sunday School the children learn a story from the Bible and engage in other fun activities. It’s our goal to make learning about Jesus an exciting and interactive experience. Our elementary curriculum includes a family devotional. This great resource helps parents reinforce what their children are learning in Sunday School as they continue to build their faith at home.

Early Childhood (4mo-K) Sunday Care

9:30 & 11am Services | 4mo-3yrs in the Nursery, 4yrs-K in The Lodge

Our adult, trained staff will nurture and love your children so you can relax and focus on your time in the worship service. Not comfortable leaving your child during service? We have a Family Worship Room off the Upper Lobby where you can comfortably participate in worship without worry if your child is making noise or moving about.

Bible Sunday

Sunday September 24 | 9:30 & 11am Services

If your child is in grades 1-4 and does not have a Bible of their own, UPPC would love to give them one! Bibles will be presented to students during worship services on Sept 24. Register online at UPPC.org/children

Wednesday December 6

Watch for registration & information coming in November (grades 1-4)

The Wayside

Pick-up Volleyball

Tuesdays | 6-8pm

UPPC Gym

An easy-going and fun environment to learn and play indoor volleyball. Must be 13 years or older. All skill levels welcome.

Stop by Sunday-Thursday, 8:30am-1pm to try our new fall flavors. Catch up with friends or find a comfortable place to work at The Wayside!

A UPPC Podcast on life, the Bible and faith.

With Mike Moffitt & weekly guests, join us for conversations that are improvised and sometimes unusual... just like jazz!

Available from your favorite podcast outlet.

The Christmas Season at UPPC

Thanksgiving Eve Service

Wednesday November 22 | 7pm

Join us as we take a moment to pause and show gratitude to God before the hustle and bustle of the holiday season begins.

Celebrate Advent

Sunday November 26

Come celebrate the upcoming Advent season, eat good food, celebrate with friends and build meaningful family traditions! More info coming soon...

Community Christmas

Watch for opportunities to be the hands and feet of Christ this Christmas season. Volunteer and donate to help create beautiful memories for families in our community.

Christmas Concert

Sunday December 10 | 9:30 & 11am

Join us for a festive musical experience filled with the Holy Spirit during both services on Sunday!

Blue Christmas Service

Tuesday December 21 | 7pm

Christmas is a magnifier. It can make the good in life seem really good, and the difficult things more challenging. But, we also know there is hope and peace beyond those circumstances. Join us for a service designed to acknowledge our grief and loss and focus on the promise of hope.

Christmas Eve Services

Sunday December 24

Invite friends and family to share in one of UPPC’s family, traditional or candlelight Christmas Eve services and celebrate the birth our Savior, Jesus Christ!

UPPC Staff

Pastors

Rev. Aaron Stewart Senior Pastor

Rev. Mike Moffitt Associate Pastor

Worship & Music

Rev. Dr. Diana Greene Minister of Worship

Loren Tucker Dir. of Contemporary Worship & Technical Arts

Melinda Tucker Director of Contemporary Worship

Dan Konicek Director of Media

Lisa Todd Director of Music & Arts Institute

Care & Outreach

Rev. Dr. Martha Greene Parish Associate

Jill McMullen Minister of Care and Welcome & Connect

Kathy Goertz Welcoming Coordinator

Lisa Woicik Minister of Outreach & Mission

Youth & Children

Rob Clark Minister of Youth & Children

Robin Fawcett Director of Middle School

Julie Mangrum Director of Elementary

Laura Richardson Director of Early Childhood

Lexi Barnett Director of High School & Young Adults

Operations

Mike Bates Executive Minister

Ashli Veitch Executive Assistant

Lisa Priestley Communications & Marketing Coordinator

Emily Jacobsen Office & Scheduling Coordinator

Kaylee Fowler Financial Administrator

Julianne Bishop Stewardship Coordinator

Campus Care

Taylor Conrad Campus Care & Wayside Café Manager

Chuck Benedict Lead Custodian

Mawiir Deng Custodian

UPPC ELDERS

Session Support

Susan Clark

Bob Freeborn

Sven Nelson

Carolyn Rzesutek

Worship & Discipleship

Nancy Keay

Chuck King

Guy Berry

Rick Todd

Care & Outreach

Emily Bosh

Patti Vig

Marty Sanbeck

Cynthia Crosby

Karen Crosby

Youth & Children

Holly Bray

Mary Pubols

Operations

Kathleen George

Jim Maxwell

Cynthia Darland

Krista Wallace

Campus Care

Russell Post

Sean Hensley

The Session, comprised of elders, serves as the governing body of the church. Elders are elected, volunteer positions within the church body who help facilitate the leadership and direction of the church.