May Message from Conference Minister Rev. Lorraine Ceniceros
As we move into the second half of May, our conference is bustling with exciting events and meaningful opportunities. Here's a roundup of what's happening…
May 20th - Synod Site Visit: On Monday, May 20th, we embark on a significant journey with Rev. Mary Nelson, Conference Minister of the Missouri Mid South Conference, alongside the national setting Synod arrangements committee, including the esteemed UCC General Minister and President, Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia Thompson. Together, we'll conduct a crucial site visit of the Synod venue in Kansas City. This marks the commencement of our earnest Synod planning efforts. If you're interested in contributing, whether by co-chairing one of the three local arrangement subcommittees or volunteering during the event scheduled for June 11th to 15th, 2025, in Kansas City, please reach out to me or Conference President Jim French.
May 19th and 20th - Visit from UCC General Minister and President: We're thrilled to announce the visit of the General Minister and President, Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia Thompson, to Colonial Church at Prairie Village. Additionally, there will be a clergy meet and greet at Plymouth UCC in Lawrence on Monday, May 20th at 6:00pm. We encourage all clergy in the area to attend and participate in this enriching gathering. It's a fantastic opportunity to connect with Rev. Dr. Thompson and delve into discussions about the General Synod. Let's come together, share ideas, and strengthen our bonds during this time of fellowship and learning.
May 22nd to May 24th - Baden/K-O Partnership: Excitement fills the air as we welcome Reverend Eleanor McCormack and Reverend Anna Heitmann from the Protestant Regional Church of Baden, Germany, to Kansas and Oklahoma from May 23rd to May 27th. During their visit, Reverends McCormack, Heitmann, and myself will lead brainstorming sessions at Partridge Community UCC in Partridge, Kansas, and Fellowship Congregational UCC in Tulsa, Oklahoma. These sessions aim to enhance and fortify the Baden/K-O partnership, fostering collaboration and mutual growth.
May 30th - KIFA Annual Event: Save the date for the KIFA Annual Event on May 30th, from 6:00pm to 9:00pm, at the Shawnee Mission Unitarian Universalist Church in Lenexa. This year's keynote speaker is Reverend Traci deVon Blackmon, CEO and Founder of HopeBuilds, LLC, dedicated to building a just and equitable world. The K-O Conference will provide 4 tickets for the event. Let us know if you'd like to attend and be part of this inspiring gathering.
October 4th - 5th - Kansas Oklahoma Annual Meeting: Our Annual Meeting is on the horizon, scheduled for Friday and Saturday, October 4th and 5th, at Wichita United Church of Christ. Stay tuned for further details as we prepare for this important gathering.
We hope you're as excited as we are about these upcoming events! Please mark your calendars and make plans to join us as we come together to fellowship, learn, and grow in our faith. Thank you for being an integral part of our conference. Your involvement and support make all the difference. Wishing you a month filled with growth, connection, and meaningful experiences.
Your partner on this journey of faith,
Lorraine