Pastor Jim’s “Ecclesiastical Council” @ Iowa UCC Conference Meeting:

Sunday April 26th – Meeting Starts at 2:30, Ecclesiastical Council approx 3:45

Plans are underway for the upcoming conference meeting where Pastor Jim will speak before attendees.  As most of you know, Pastor Jim serves our church as a “Lay Minister,” which is a temporary status.  For the past couple years, Ihe has been working with a group of Ripley congregants to complete the steps to becoming fully ordained, so that he can continue to serve Ripley UCC.

Sunday, April 26, Pastor Jim will go before an “Ecclesiastical Council” made up of delegates from all the UCC churches in the Central Iowa Association.  This is part of the Association’s Annual meeting.  The results of the Council will determine his status as a pastor.    The meeting starts at 2:30 pm.  His part will likely start around 3:45, and go for an hour.  During this meeting, delegates will vote on his status as a pastor and whether he should proceed toward ordination.

From Pastor Jim: “Beyond the need for recommendation, I have never felt more a part of a church than I do Ripley.  I feel like we are one body, working together to “serve God by serving others.”  Full ordination is a big step in the life of a pastor, and it would feel more “right” to have the church there (in person or online) with me.”

A “cheering section” of supporters from Ripley is being organized to attend and show encouragement, with some willing to speak on his behalf. If you are interested in joining the cheering section, please sign up in the kitchen so that car pooling can be arranged. If you are unable to attend in person you can join virtually. Find the flyer with those zoom link below.

Details: 

• Hearty Brunch Fellowship at Ripley 
• Leave Ripley approximately 12:00 noon – travel to Urbandale UCC Church
  • Carpooling sign up in the kitchen
• Attend Conference Meeting and Cheer Jim on
• Stop somewhere for Supper on the way home (Dutch Treat)

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