Throughout the month of June, gifts marked Pentecost Special Offering will be divided evenly between Strengthen the Church and Alain Locke Initiative.
Strengthen The Church (STC)
The Church Development Committee (CDC) of our Pacific Northwest Conference of the United Church of Christ primary duties are to consult, assist and provide funding in partnership with those involved in church formation or transformation. Most of our budget for helping churches comes from Strengthen the Church, one of five special mission offerings of the United Church of Christ. Earlier this year, our committee provided seed money for antiracism and community engagement projects at 12 churches.
One of these projects is “The Gathering,” launched on May 2 by The Christian Worship Center in Anchorage with a vibrant youth event of spirit-filled music and dance. This event brought in much interest from the wider community.
Rooted in the United Church of Christ’s motto, “That they may all be one,” The Gathering is dedicated to dismantling systemic barriers by promoting cultural understanding. Through workshops and community forums, it uplifts the histories, traditions, and contributions of marginalized communities. The initiative also provides direct support to those affected by racism through mentorship programs, scholarships for underrepresented youth, mental health counseling and legal assistance.
At its inaugural event, The Gathering welcomed 350 youth and empowered them to connect with one another through dance, music, and personal testimony. According to Rev. Fa'atauvaa Alaelua (aka Va'a), lead pastor of Christian Worship Center, “we were inspired by the (BIPOC clergy) retreat at the Franklinton Center at Bricks in North Carolina, a site once marked by oppression and now transformed into a place of empowerment, we are determined to create a program that liberates and uplifts everyone affected by systemic injustice.” The experience was nothing short of powerful. It even made the local news!
Our offering to Strengthen the Church directly funds projects like “The Gathering.” Half of what churches receive for STC June 8 stays right here in the Pacific Northwest Conference, and half goes to the national setting to fund a variety of church vitality initiatives.
Alain Locke Initiative (ALI)
The remaining half of the June 8 special offering will support the Alain Locke Initiative. Their Mission is committed to empowering young Black queer men (ages 14-21) in the Seattle area through mentorship and holistic support and to guide them in navigating life’s challenges, completing their education, and accessing career opportunities and scholarships. By fostering personal growth, resilience, and professional development, ALI aims to inspire these young men to live authentically and achieve their fullest potential. Read more here.
Please give generously to Strengthen the Church and Alain Locke Initiative on June 8, Pentecost Sunday!
Photo: "The Gathering," launched May 2.