Outreach, Service & Advocacy at FCCB
First Congregational Church of Berkeley is engaged in many different forms of outreach to the wider community, including service projects, contributions, project funding, support for denominational initiatives, political action and advocacy. This page will list projects and events as they occur.
“Redemption”—the Lives of West Oakland Recyclers
January 15, 2012
First Church friend Amir Soltani will screen his documentary film Redemption on Sunday, January 15 during the Learning Hour at 10 am. In the film, Soltani deftly captures on film the lives of poor folk in West Oakland who survive by collecting and selling recyclables. The film profiles four homeless recyclers—a fallen priest, former gang leader, widow and punk rocker. Their shopping cart routes draw us into areas challenged by decades of structural poverty and urban renewal.
Soltani also illuminates the controversies—tensions between residents, recyclers, industry and the city—lwhich center on Alliance Metals, the recycling center that buys recyclables.
Amir Soltani is operations director at Omid for Iran, a nonprofit whose mission is to envision a better future for Iran and is the founder and executive director of Turning Time, a communications and media nonprofit that uses documentary film and communications technology to promote social and economic change. He has participated in our worship services several times reading from the Koran and from the poetry of Hafiz and Rumi.
Christmas Offering Benefits Three Local Agencies
December 29, 2011
This year’s Christmas Offering brought in $12,332.67! Each Advent season, the Ministry of Outreach, Mission and Service chooses organizations and agencies that will receive the benefits of the offerings taken at our two Christmas Eve services. This year OMS chose three local groups: Berkeley Food Pantry, the Suitcase Clinic and YEAH!. First Church has long-standing ties with each of these three agencies.
The Berkeley Food Pantry is a cooperative effort with other churches and synagogues in the East Bay and with the Alameda County Community Food Bank. The Pantry makes regular food distributions to local households with incomes at or below the poverty line. UC Berkeley Public Health students run the Suitcase Clinic operates three weekly multi-service drop-in centers: a general clinic, a women’s clinic and a youth clinic from a site on Channing Way. Youth Engagement, Advocacy and Housing (YEAH!) offers shelter to youth who would otherwise be on the streets, many of whom are victims of abuse or neglect.
“Gifts for the World” Catalog Raises $5805!
December 25, 2011
This year’s “Gifts for the World” Catalog was a wonderful success, raising $5805 as of the end of the year. It benefitted a number of local and international service organizations. 2011 version of this alternative holiday gift catalog featured 11 different organizations that one could donate to on behalf of friends and relatives. Special thanks to Annis Kukulan and Freddie Bungie for organizing this helpful resource.
Senior Minister Visits CWS Water Projects in Kenya
November 7, 2012
Senior Minister Patricia de Jong joined a delegation organized by Church World Service (CWS) to visit water projects in Kenya from November 7-21. The Horn of Africa has had record low rainfall making water resources scarce, severely restricting food production and leading to famine.
CWS’s Water for All projects have significantly affected this critical situation in a country in which nearly one third of the population relies on food aid. The delegation visited sites that most Kenyan travelers don’t get to.
In addition to the water and food security programs of Church World Service East Africa, the group met with CWS staff, partner agency leaders and participants in the Giving Hope (AIDS orphans) and School Safe Zones programs. The program site visits concluded with a trip to remote south western Kenya where CWS organizing of community support for area primary schools has quickly resulted in a higher number of girls going on to secondary school.
This trip comes on the heels of the UCC’s Mission: 1 campaign highlighting the need for food justice around the world. Pat was joined by her husband, Sam Keen, and CWS Associate Regional Director Vy Nguyen (who recently spoke at FCCB) among others.
Somalia Refugees in Desperate Need
August 17, 2011
FCCB member Liz McBride has been paying close attention to the famine and refugee situation in Somalia. She encourages us to contribute financially through the United Nations High Commission on Refugees.
Read more on the FCCB blog “Wisdom from First Church.”
Work Camp Travels to Pescadero
June 19, 2011
Each summer, members of Winthrop, the Senior High youth group, participate in a week-long work camp. This year, from June 19-26, a group of 11 youth and 3 adults led by former Minister of Community Life Adam Blons will head to Pescadero to work with Puente, an agency providing services to a rural area south of the Santa Cruz mountains. Puente provides safety net services, health and wellness services, youth employment, leadership development, and community engagement and action.
The group will be involved in many activities: participating in a meal program for migrant farmworker men, distributing food bank supplies, working with the summer youth leadership team and helping with a gardening project at a local school. They will stay at Pescadero Community Church, a sister church of ours in the Northern California Nevada Conference of the United Church of Christ.
Work-camp participants will be joined by other Winthrop alums and leaders for a special time at the beach at Santa Cruz on Saturday, June 25, and then Adam and the workcampers will return that evening to spend their final night together at the church. They will attend worship at FCCB on Sunday, June 26, which will be Adam’s final Sunday at the church.
Bay Cleanup Day
June 18, 2011
The Outreach, Mission and Service Ministry is organizing volunteers to participate in shoreline cleanup with the Shorebird Nature Center in Berkeley on Saturday, June 18. All ages are welcome for this fun all-church activity. San Francisco Bay is one of the world’s greatest estuaries. This is an opportunity for us to share in the on-going work of Saving the Bay.
Meet at the Shorebird Nature Center at 160 University Avenue not far from the Berkeley Marina at 9 am for an orientation and safety talk and location assignment. The event will end by 11:30 am.
Sign up during the Learning Hour on the two Sundays preceding the event—June 5 and June 12. Parents will need to sign a waiver for children under 18. Details about what to bring will be available at the sign up table. You can also sign up by emailing the church or leaving a message for Cynthia Lloyd at the church: 510/848-3696.
Fifth Sunday Offering to Benefit Puente School Kids
May 17, 2011
The 5th Sunday Collection received on Sunday, May 29 and June 5, will gather school supplies for the children served by Puente, a multiservice agency bringing resources to the rural communities of Pescadero, La Honda, Loma Mar and San Gregorio. This year, the Wintrop (Senior High) Work Camp will be going to Pescadero to be involved in a variety of projects.
Each year, Puente holds an Annual Back to School Supplies Drive to help children in the area get ready for school. Last year, they collected supplies for 200 backpacks that were distributed to children mostly of farmworkers. This year, they are hoping to distribute 350! Almost any school-related supplies are welcomed such as pencils, pens, pencil sharpeners, lined paper, 3-ring binders, scotch tape, watercolor marker sets, 24 count crayons, Elmer’s white glue and glue sticks. Download a full list of recommended supplies here.
Please bring your donations to worship on either May 29 or June 5 or to the church office between May 31 and June 4. The Fifth Sunday Offering, which occurs each month in which there are five Sundays, is organized by the the Outreach, Mission and Service Committee of the church.
FCCB Member to Bike from SF to LA to Support AIDS Services
April 30, 2011
FCCB member Jim Alnas-Benson (on the far right in the photo) will be riding in his third AIDS/LifeCycle June 5-11, 2011. This 545 mile ride from San Francisco to LA raises money for AIDS services in a time of serious budget challenges.
As Jim says, “It is critical that those with HIV and AIDS receive the medication and care they need to maintain their health and well being. These resources mean that transmission rates are lowered, that quality of life is increased and life is prolonged.” 2000 riders will take part, raising money and awareness at the same time. Jim will also be doing the ride as a celebration of his 50th birthday!
You can contribute to support Jim”s ride by going to www.tofighthiv.org/goto/alnas-benson.
Rebuilding Together 2011
April 23, 2011
The Ministry of Outreach, Mission and Service invites church members and friends to participate in Rebuilding Together on two Saturdays, April 23 and 30! This helpful program provides maintenance, construction and gardening to seniors in our neighborhoods which increases the likelihood that they can stay in their homes. First Church members have participated in the program for a number of years.
Our group will be working on a home in Berkeley. Jobs will include retrofitting a bathtub to make it accessible, painting two bedrooms, washing windows and doing yardwork. The homeowner and his family appreciate the time and effort of all who participate.
We need your help! All volunteers (over 14 years of age) are welcome. Sign ups will be taken at coffee hour on Sunday, March 27. For more details, leave a message for Robin Kempster or Moe Wright by calling the church at 510/848-3696.
Easter Offering to Benefit Regional Organizations
April 17, 2011
This year’s Easter Offering will benefit two regional organizations which have long-standing ties with First Congregational Church.
Fresno Interdenominational Refugee Ministries (FIRM) serves a diverse group of recent immigrants that range from Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe and Latin America who have settled in Fresno. Our offering will help propel community garden programs in low-income areas of the city. FIRM also provides other housing and educational programs. Rev. Sophia de Witt, a former FCCB, is a Program Director for FIRM.
Solar Richmond provides training in solar installation to Richmond’s low-income, underemployed residents and then to get its trainees into competitive solar jobs. FCCB member Michele McGeoy founded this program which addresses both environmental and employment issues. Our contributions will fund a paid internship for a Solar Richmond trainee.
Contributions will be received at all of the Easter Sunday services. They can also be sent directly to the church (make checks payable to “FCCB” and put “Easter” in the memo line). Or you can donate online. Check the box “other” and put “Easter” in the adjacent box.
Donate to “One Great Hour of Sharing” Online
April 3, 2011
On Sunday, April 3, First Congregational Church of Berkeley participated in “One Great Hour of Sharing,” This special mission offering of the United Church of Christ supports programs internationally for building sustainable communities, welcoming refugees and reconstructing lives following disasters.
Some of these efforts include responding to the disasters in Japan, Oikocredit, a micro-credit lender to low-income communities around the world, the Food Resources Bank, supporting small scale farm projects in the developing world, and Church World Service, which among many other projects supported flood relief in Pakistan.
You can donate online to “One Great Hour of Sharing” here. Check “other” and write “OGHS” in the adjacent box.
UCC Responds to Earthquake in Japan
March 18, 2011
The United Church of Christ, the denomination of which First Church Berkeley is a part, is already providing avenues for responding to the earthquake in Japan. Read more and find out how you can help...
First Congregational Church of Berkeley also has ties to the Mensendiek family who have served as Global Ministries missionaries in Japan for a number of years. Global Ministries is a joint organization of the United Church of Christ and the The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The family spent time in Berkeley and at Pacific School of Religion in the 80s and were involved at FCCB. The church continued to pray for the family and its ministry after they returned to Japan. Jeffrey Mensendiek lives in Sendai, one of the areas hit hard by the earthquake and tsunami. He reports that he and his family are safe but also that the fate of some of the lay members of his church community are unknown. Jeffrey has been posting regular updates from the area.
Check here for updates from Jeffrey and other missionaries in Japan...
FCCB Day at the Food Bank Draws 45 People
January 8, 2011
A total of forty-five youth and adults participated in the FCCB Day at the Alameda County Community Food Bank on Saturday, January 8. This included a dozen Winthrop members and six people from First Baptist Church of Berkeley. This was more than twice the number of people who participated in the last visit to the Food Bank on August 14, 2010.
According to the Food Bank staff person who coordinated the day, the group processed a total of 18,100 pounds of fresh produce. This included 3,000 pounds of cabbage, 11,500 pounds of oranges and 3,600 pounds of apples. This will provide 13,480 meals to low income people. The three-hour All Church Activity was organized by the Ministry of Outreach, Mission and Service.
Later this month, on January 30, FCCB members will be asked to bring in specific foods to donate to the Food Bank. One out of six residents of Alameda County benefit from the Food Bank with 45% of those residents being children.
Christmas Offering to Benefit Agencies
December 18, 2010
Each Christmas season the Ministry of Outreach, Mission and Service invites all members of the FCCB community to contribute to two agencies, one local and one international. This year the offering will benefit the What If? Foundation, serving communities in need in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and the East Bay Sanctuary Convenant, which offers services to refugees and immigrants escaping suffering in other countries. The offering was taken on December 19 and at both services on Christmas Eve. To date a total of $11,569.24 has been donated. Contributions can still be made online.
The What If? Foundation serves the poorest of the poor in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, providing food and education to the neediest of children. The devastation of last year’s earthquake and this year’s cholera epidemic has created an even greater need. The food program provides an average of 3,600 hot, nutritious meals every day to children; for many it is their only meal of the day.
The East Bay Sanctuary Covenant (EBSC) offers sanctuary, solidarity, support, advocacy and legal services to those escaping war, terror, political persecution, intolerance, exploitation and other expressions of violence. It fosters relationships among refugees, immigrants and the host communities. FCCB has been in covenant with other congregations since 1982 in support of the goals of the EBSC.
Contribute online now. Write “Christmas Offering” in the “Other” line on the online form.
FCCB to Offer Shelter
November 22, 2010
At its November meeting, the Church Council approved a recommendation by the Stewardship, Finance and Administration Ministry for FCCB to serve as 
Berkeley’s emergency storm shelter for homeless individuals this upcoming winter season. The Berkeley Emergency Storm Shelter (BESS) is run by Dorothy Day House (DDH) and for several years has operated out of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church on Bancroft, but due to renovations at that church, DDH was unable to continue running the shelter at that location.
Through a contract with the City of Berkeley, BESS provides overnight shelter beds for homeless individuals who are vulnerable on particularly stormy nights and who are unable to access any of the year-round or other winter shelter programs funded by the City. The storm shelter is open on rainy nights and/or when temperatures are expected to fall below 40 degrees.
FCCB will host the storm shelter for up to 45 nights this winter in the Large Assembly so long as there are no conflicting events in that space. (Saturday nights will be unavailable due to Sunday morning services.) DDH fully operates and manages the shelter and will provide all on-site management and cleaning related to its operation. FCCB’s extension of its facilities to this most vulnerable local population truly embodies our spirit of radical hospitality and compassion for the needy in our community. For more information on the program, please see Moe Wright or Ken Iha.
FCCB to Help Clean Up the Coast
September 25, 2010
The Outreach, Mission and Service (OMS) Ministry is organizing volunteers to participate in an all-church event on Saturday, September 25—the 26th annual California Coastal Cleanup Day. This is part of an international coastal cleanup involving over 100 countries and territories bordering every major body of water on earth. It is a great opportunity for us to think globally and act locally, exercising our special responsibility as stewards of a natural treasure, the San Francisco Bay. All ages are welcome; it should be a fun family activity.
The cleanup activities are from 9 am–noon, beginning with an orientation and shoreline assignment. Afterwards, we will submit data sheets on what we collected which will entitle us to participate in a raffle, including prizes for the most unusual items.
Sign up during the Learning Hour on Sunday, September 19, where you will be given further details on what to wear and bring and when to gather. The official rendezvous point for the event is at the intersection of University Ave. and West Frontage Road in Berkeley (just before the road to the Marina and just after the bridge over Rt. 80). For more details, go to the signup table or contact Cynthia Lloyd (you can get her phone number from the church office: 510/848-3696.
A Day at the Alameda County Community Food Bank
August 14, 2010
On Saturday, August 14, members and friends of FCCB will have an opportunity to get directly involved at the Alameda County Community Food Bank. The Ministry of Outreach, Mission and Service is organizing a volunteer group to sort the food donations made to the Food Bank from 9 am to 12 noon that day.
The Alameda County Community Food Bank provides food assistance to over 49,000 people each week with 43% going to children. This event will be a special opportunity to learn about how the Food Bank operates, sort food and to get to know each other better while putting our faith into concrete action. This activity is family-friendly.
The Food Bank is located at 7900 Edgewater Drive near the intersection of Hegenberger Road and Edgewater. To sign up, look for the table in the Large Assembly after church.
Addressing the Gulf Oil Spill
June 22, 2010
The Gulf Oil Spill is a major event in all of our lives. It seems crucial to address the issue from a faith perspective and the issue has been included in worship several times over the last few weeks. On Sunday, June 22, the service will be devoted to this subject. We have also created a Gulf Oil Spill newspage with online resources that might be helpful in increasing our understanding of this issue. If you have other resources that you have found helpful, please email them to Phil Porter.
Watch the video of the service including Phil’s sermon “Oil & Water Don’t Mix” (at about the 42 min. mark) and Beth Hoch’s dance “A Lamentation for the Water” (at 1:02 into the video.)
Diapers for the Babies Needed
May 30, 2010
For this month’s 5th Sunday Offering, the church is invited to donate diapers for babies in low-income families in Berkeley through the WIC program.
WIC stands for “Women, Infants and Children” and is a federal nutrition program for pregnant women, breastfeeding women and children from birth to 5 years of age. WIC provides checks for buying healthy supplemental foods; it also offers nutrition education and help finding healthcare and other community services. Unfortunately, there are no community resources providing diapers.
We ask that you bring a packet of disposable diapers of any size to church anytime between May 23 and May 30. The 5th Sunday offering is collected four times a year when there is a 5th Sunday in a month. It is organized by the Ministry of Outreach, Service and Mission.
Brock to Host “Truth Commission on Conscience in War” Screening
May 3, 2010
On March 21, over eighty leaders—evangelicals and mainliners, Muslims and Jews, Buddhists, Unitarian Universalists—plus veterans of all military branches, just war proponents, and pacifists, gathered for the first Truth Commission on Conscience in War at Riverside Church in New York City. Rita Nakashima Brock worked with three other people in the Bay Area for the two years to create this event.
On Monday, May 3, a public screening and discussion about the Truth Commission Public Hearing will be held at FCCB in the Sanctuary. The screening is from 7-9 pm with a reception afterwards. Speakers will include FCCB member Rita Nakashima Brock and Rebecca Parker, President of Starr King School for the Ministry.
Read more from Rita about the Truth Commission.
Read Rita Brock’s piece “Another Hurt Locker” in the Huffington Post on March 9, 2010.
Watch a powerful video about war and conscience.
More News from Haiti
Mar. 25, 2010
More powerful photos taken by photojournalist René Merino.
Margaret Trost, who has many ties to our congregation, continues to send our reports from her contacts Port-Au-Prince. She has been active in the area through her non-profit organization, the What If Foundation. She sent out this report on March 2:
“ I am excited to let you know that our partners at St. Clare’s just launched a special education program for children that takes place every afternoon before the food program meals are served. With schools closed in Port-au-Prince and no date set for their reopening, this two-hour gathering is treasured by the hundreds of kids who attend. Members of the education staff are teaching the children songs, providing materials for arts and crafts, and leading group discussions. Lavarice Gaudin, our earthquake relief coordinator, told me the teachers choose one subject a day to explore with the children. Topics have included the earthquake and related fears, courage, service to others, life skills and values.”
Margaret also shares some photos some extraordinary photos taken by photojournalist René Merino during his recent trip to Port-au-Prince, including some of the food program at St. Claire’s and the one above.
Make a contribution to disaster relief through the United Church of Christ.
Make a donation through the What If Foundation.
Make a donation through Church World Service.
“One Great Hour of Sharing”
Mar. 14, 2010
Donate online to this offering.
On Sunday, March 14, members and friends of FCCB contributed to One Great Hour of Sharing a collective response to people in need around the world. Resettling families from Somalia to Ohio, offering humanitarian assistance to people in North Korea, setting up community camps in Darfur, giving pigs to families in the Democratic Republic of Congo—these are just a few of the 80 projects that are funded through the United Church of Christ and its partner organizations. You can still respond by donating online. Click here and type in “OGHS” in the “other” line of the donation form.
Neighbors in Need Offering Received
Oct. 11, 2009
Neighbors in Need is a special offering of the United Church of Christ that benefits people across the United States through hunger action programs, policy advocacy, just peace ministries and community organizing. The theme this year is “Imagine: Another World is Possible.”
On Sunday, October 11, Elaine Lyford-Nojima shared a moving invitation to this special work on behalf of the Ministry of Outreach, Mission and Service. Watch the video of her presentation here.
Donate online to Neighbors in Need. On the donation page type in “NIN” in the space next to “other”.
FCCB to Screen Northern Slave Trade Documentary
June 22, 2009
In Traces of the Trade, producer/director Katrina Browne (a PSR graduate and former Bay Area resident) tells the story of her forefathers, the largest slave-trading family in U.S. history. They were part of the Northern slave trade which has often been ignored in historical accounts.
The film follows ten DeWolf descendants (ages 32-71, ranging from sisters to seventh cousins) as they retrace the steps of the Triangle Trade, visiting the DeWolf hometown of Bristol, Rhode Island, slave forts on the coast of Ghana, and the ruins of a family plantation in Cuba. Browne pushes the family forward as they struggle through the minefield of race politics. Back home, the family confronts the thorny topic of what to do now. In the context of growing calls for reparations for slavery, family members struggle with the question of how to think about and contribute to “repair.” Meanwhile, Browne and her family come closer to the core: their love/hate relationship with their own Yankee culture and privileges; the healing and transformation needed not only “out there,” but inside themselves.
This film has been shown on PBS and at several film festivals. It is one of several movie nights planned by Adult Education.
5th Sunday Offering in May
May 31, 2009
Note: This offering netted over four barrels of food and more than $2400 in cash!
We have designated the Alameda County Food Bank (ACFB) to be the recipient of our 5th Sunday (May 31) Offering. Founded in 1985, ACFB provides food assistance to 40,000 people each week. The Food Bank also educates the community about the causes of hunger and poverty, advocates for policies that improve the lives of low-income people and operates an emergency food referral helpline. ACFB workers report they have never been so short of food to give to the poor. Below is a list of the most needed non-perishable foods. Fill a bag of food to contribute on Sunday, May 31 and bring it to worship. Food can also be brought to the church office up until June 1.
Here’s a list of the most-needed food: Canned fruit and vegetables, canned meats and fish, peanut butter, pasta, beans, rice, canned soup (low-salt), low-sugar cereal and oatmeal, tomato sauce, powdered milk.
When a month has five Sundays, the Ministry of Outreach, Mission and Service coordinates a special offering of items that will benefit a particular organization. These are collected before worship and brought forward during the regular offering.
3rd Annual “Big House Meets the Opera House” Concert
April 26, 2009
This year’s theme is “Spring Free!” The concert will take place on Sunday, April 26 at 2:30 pm in the Sanctuary. We have a number of fine singers volunteering their talents to benefit two prison-related concerns: Life After Exoneration Project is a Berkeley-based organization seeking to provide assistance to people who have been released after exoneration. Unrepresented Death Row Prisoner Project is a fund managed by Death Penalty Focus to provide stamps, soaps, vitamins, and other items not provided by the prison during the period of time before an attorney is appointed, which currently involves a wait of 5–7 years. And, just in case you might think this is a small number of people, there are currently over 670 inmates on death row in California; somewhere upwards of 150 are awaiting appointment of counsel.
But also come for the music! Larry Marietta is accompanying and several Chancel Choir members are singing in the Big House Chorus. The confirmed performers are, again, astonishing. This is fine opera, up close and personal, with a little Broadway and gospel tossed in for fun. Mark the date. We’re only asking $15 for adults, $10 for children and students and there will be a reception afterwards. Such a deal!
Youth Rebuild Together
April 25, 2009
On Saturday, April 25, youth members and adult leaders of Winthrop, FCCB’s senior high youth fellowship, participated in “Rebuilding Together,” a program that provides volunteer building repair to individuals and organizations who need to have work done but may not be able to afford it. FCCB has participated in this program annually for nearly ten years.
This year’s project was to pour a gravel path, repair and repaint wooden stairs and build new planter boxes in the garden at the Fred Finch Youth Center in Berkeley. They worked alongside two FCCB members who organized the day: Moe Wright and Jonell Lucas.
Participants included youth Alex Stuetz, David Ayer, Gabe Alexander, and Kerrigan Addicott-Case and adults Alexa Maremaa, Louis Arighi, and Julie Llanillo along with Adam Blons. The previous week other FCCB members, including Ken Iha, Bob & Kathy Helliesen, Judy Norberg, Nick Kukulan, Chris Stuetz, Joanne Lagerstrom & Robert Bradley, and Paul Huston, began the work that the youth finished. Everyone is a little sore, but so satisfied with our contribution.
Special thanks to Jonell and Moe for coordinating this event and seeing it through so faithfully.
More info about youth programs at FCCB.
Solar Richmond to Receive Easter Offering
April 12, 2009
Solar Richmond, a non-profit organization providing low cost and free solar system installation to low-income homeowners and training of low-income residents from the community to do this work, is the recipient of this year’s Easter Offering which totalled $7525. FCCB member Michele McGeoy is the founder and director of this organization. In March, she received the Duane Morris Leadership Award for her “outstanding contributions to the local and global community.”
Solar Richmond advances the goals of environmental sustainability while also creating job opportunities that help alleviate poverty, homelessness and hunger. Contributions will help expand the reach of this powerful program.
Each year, the Ministry of Outreach, Mission and Service selects an organization to receive the Easter Offering which is taken at our Easter Sunday services.
FCCB Minister Attends Deportation Hearing
April 8, 2009
Minister of Community Life Adam Blons attended an immigration hearing last week for a family that has been part of the Immigration Sanctuary Movement. Maria and Augustin Sanchez are threatened with deportation even though some of their children are legal residents of the United States. Adam writes, “The judge for this case was very compassionate and the government’s lawyer was benign. I felt that the dignity of the family was honored during the hearing. That said, it is still shameful that the government would even consider splitting up a family. In addition, I observed many times today how misunderstanding created doubt during the testimonies. The language barrier in these situation goes beyond words.” The hearing was not completed and will continue this week. Read Adam’s full report of the hearing. It provides an inside look at what deportation hearings are like. Also you can download an Interfaith Immigration Platform, which provides a framework for immigration policy reform.
Fifth Sunday Donations to Benefit Suitcase Clinic
March 29, 2009
Don’t forget: the Youth Suitcase Clinic, the recipient of our Fifth Sunday Offering in March, needs blankets, socks and winter coats. Any new or lightly used (clean, no holes or stains) articles may be brought to the Hall of Entrance before worship on Sunday, March 29 or to the church office up until April 1.
Immigration Trip Fundraiser: “A Taste of Latin America”
February 22, 2009
The fundraiser on February 22 was a great success! Contributions through the purchase of tamales, salso, chips and other treats helped trip participants raise almost $2,000. These funds will provide scholarships for several of the students who are going in the trip. An exciting marimba band got many twirling about the dance floor! The final fundraising efforts are this Sunday, March 1. If you’d like to order a tamale or pan dulce, call the church office no later than Thursday, February 26 at noon. On March 1 we will provide food by pre-order only during Fellowship Hour. You also still have an opportunity to purchase raffle tickets for the original Bill Jersey painting. The winner will be drawn at noon!
Collection for Animals in Need
November 30, 2008
On Sunday, November 30, the 6th-12th grade church school class collected pet and veterinary supplies of all kinds for two wonderful Bay Area organizations: Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) and Home At Last Animal Rescue, the recipients of the Fifth Sunday Offering (a special collection, usually of material goods, is taken on every Sunday that is the fifth one in a month).
Members of the group brought up several baskets of supplies as the gifts of the congregation were dedicated. In addition, the class held a bake sale after worship that same day to further support these organizations. The sale netted $270, and many church members were carrying around plates laden with baked goodies during Fellowship Hour.
For a previous Sunday service, the youth had presented a special Children’s Time that talked about the importance of pets in our lives. Helen McGeoy brought her dog who exelled at several tricks, and an almost 6-foot tall black and white spotted dog appeared with special messages for the children about the needs of animals in shelters. A spokesanimal for the organizations receiving the donations had a simple message of thanks: Woof!!
Concert to Celebrate Solar Richmond
October 25, 2008
Performances by musicians Jeanne Foss, Kathleen Dunbar and The Fancy Dan Band will highlight a concert celebrating the economic justice work of Solar Richmond, a local non-profit organization that trains community members to install solar panel systems. The event will take place on Saturday, October 25, from 6:30-10 pm in the Large Assembly. The Climate Action Ministry Team is cosponsoring the event.
You’ll also hear personal stories about the mission of Solar Richmond and how it’s affected the community. FCCB member Michele McGeoy is Founder and Executive Director of the organization.
There is a suggested donation of $10-$15 for the evening but no one will be turned away. Join us to enjoy the music and fellowship and learn more about the power of the sun and of the community to bring good things to all of us. No RSVP needed.
Death Penalty Panel Discussion
September 15, 2008
The Criminal Justice Ministry Team invites you to attend a panel discussion on the death penalty, sponsored by Berkeley Greens and Death Penalty Focus on September 15, 2008, 7:30–9 pm at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way, Berkeley.
Featured speakers are Elizabeth Zitrin, attorney and California Death Penalty Abolition Coordinator for Amnesty International, Aaron Owens, who was wrongfully convicted of a double murder in Alameda County, and Judy Kerr, whose brother was murdered. Ms. Kerr is the Spokesperson and Outreach Coordinator for California Crime Victims for Alternatives to the Death Penalty.
This event is part of Green Mondays, a monthly talk series. Admission is free, and there will be snacks and an open bar. If you would like more information or need help with transportation, please contact Dorothy Streutker.
Journey To South Africa
September 10, 2008
Annis Kukulan and Frederica Bunge depart for Johannesburg on September 10 as emissaries for the South Africa Ministry Team. There they plan to meet Queen Monamudi, for whom the ministry is providing youth leadership training, and to visit various projects linked to loveLife, the nationwide HIV/AIDS prevention program founded by David Harrison, M.D. Harrison and Pat de Jong became friends when David and his family attended services at First Congregational while he attended graduate school at UC Berkeley. Annis and Freddie will stay for four days with the Harrisons in Capetown and plan to attend services at Rondebosch Church. The visit will stress connection with South Africans working to stem the AIDS pandemic in an equal and two-way partnership for prevention and response.
5th Sunday Collection
June 29, 2008
Each 5th Sunday, the Ministry of Outreach, Mission and Service selects an organization to which FCCB members can contribute items of need. June 29 we collected materials for clients of the Multicultural Institute, a local organization that assists with work, health and education of immigrants living in our midst. Many day laborers that we see in our communities are served in this way. Multicultural Institute aims to ease their transition from outsiders into fuller participation in our community. Items collected for the men were: white cotton t-shirts (often packaged in threes), sizes M and L. A goal was to collect a minimum of 50 shirts, to be distributed on a single day. For the children and teens: 8 1/2 x ll spiral bound notebooks and No. 2 pencils.
Students to Serve Social Justice Organizations
May 28, 2008
This summer 10 college students will participate in an innovative 9-week internship developed by First Congregational and the Metta Center for Nonviolence. The students will be placed with East Bay community organizations that address poverty, racism, immigration, environmental degradation and violence prevention.
The Buddhist Peace Fellowship, the Women’s Daytime Drop-in Center, Better Alternatives for Youth, and the Multicultural Institute are just a few of the organizations where the students will be working.
The students will work four days each week directly with their community partner organization and spend one day each week in an education forum to reflect on their experiences and learn new skills in community-based leadership and nonviolent communication.
First Congregational is providing stipends for five of the participants through the Campus Ministry’s Fund for Innovation. First Congregational member Salavador Alcántara is coordinating the program with Betsy Crites from the Metta Center, and together they have created the curriculum for the program.
Read more about the students who were chosen and the organizations where they will work.
First Congregational Hosts Immigration Teach-In
May 3, 2008
The Immigration Ministry Team presented a free Teach-In on Saturday, May 3, with Prof. Margaret Hunter. The event began with an interactive, multimedia historical overview of immigration policy in the U.S. by Prof. Hunter, followed by a testimony from a local family. Margaret Hunter is an author and Asst. Prof. of Sociology at Mills College.
View a video of this presentation on immigration.
First Congregational Commits to CROP Walk
April 20, 2008
First Congregational is once again committing to take part in the CROP Walk to End Hunger. The goal is to have 25 walkers and raise a lot of money! Last year, The CROP Walk included 125 walkers and 16 groups raised over $11,000 for people served by the Alameda County Community Food Bank, YEAH (a youth drop-in center) and by Church World Service/CROP. This year’s walk will be on April 20 around Lake Merritt in Oakland starting from the Lake Merritt United Methodist Church at 1:30 pm. You may sign up to walk, to sponsor a walker, or to donate in the Large Assembly on April 13 & 20 or, simply contact Charlotte Russell if you are interested. We are called to not only stand in solidarity with the poor, the hungry, and the forsaken in our community but to walk with them. Come and let us spread God’s abundant love throughout our community.
Students who are in Tinley Ireland’s DeCal Class “Hunger and Malnutrition in the Berkeley Area” will also be walking as part of their final class project. This class, which is one of a series of student-initiated classes at UC Berkeley is sponsored by the First Congregational Campus Ministry.
Easter Sunday Offering
March 23, 2008
This year’s Easter offering supported devopment work through El Puente de la Costa Sur in California and KUDO in northern Malawi. These organizatons benefit from our generosity and we benefit from the relationships established. Near Pescadero, the UCC maintains Puente, a community resource center for farm workers, providing health services, leadership development, community engagement and action. Nkhata Bay, a beautiful area with rich traditions though urgently needing economic development, is home to the Kunyanja Development Organization. KUDO has funded literacy and health programs, services for AIDS orphans, girls education, food raising and processing, job training, and water projects. You can still contribute by sending a check made out to “FCCB”. Write “Easter Offering” on the memo line.
Opera Concert Benefits Prisoner Programs
February 23, 2008
FCCB’s Criminal Justice Ministry Team presented The Opera House Meets the Big House, the second annual opera concert to benefit prison programs. All artists contributed their talents to the cause, and chose arias, duets and choruses from operas that include/portray prison, jail, or captivity as part of the story line. Singers from many Bay Area opera companies were featured. Merle Kessler of Duck’s Breath Mystery Theater served as emcee, and Larry Marrietta and John Walko accompanied the singers.
The concerts raised $1155 for two organizations, the Unrepresented Death Row Prison Project and the Life After Exoneration Program. Attendance and contributions doubled from last year’s concert. The word is that a CD of the February 23rd event will be available for a donation and that planning for next year’s event is already underway
The concert was organized by Dorothy Streutker who combines her skills as a lawyer and minister to serve those on Death Row. A talented singer and member of the FCCB Chancel Choir, she also performed in the concert.
Two Organizations to Receive Special Christmas Eve Offering
December 2, 2007
Each year the Ministry of Outreach, Mission and Service chooses a local and an international organization to receive the special offering taken at the two First Congregational Christmas Eve services. This year the Ministry has chosen The Suitcase Clinic at UC Berkeley, and Fonkoze, an alternative banking organization in Haiti.
The Suitcase Clinic is a student and volunteer run organization founded by students from the UCB-UCSF Joint Medical Program (JMP) and UC Berkeley’s School of Public Health out of a desire to address the unmet needs of the city of Berkeley’s homeless and low-income population. Structured around the principles of public health, social welfare, community activism and empathy, the Suitcase Clinic currently operates three weekly multi-service drop-in centers in the city Berkeley: the General Clinic, the Women’s Clinic and the Youth Clinic. In addition to providing services, the Suitcase Clinic strives to educate students, promote health care access, engage in community organization, and support public policy efforts that address homelessness and the needs of the underserved in the local community.
Fonkoze—Haiti’s Alternative Bank for the Organized Poor—is the largest micro-finance institution offering a full range of financial services to the rural-based poor in Haiti. It’s mission is to build the economic foundations for democracy in Haiti. Fonkoze’s services include: solidarity group and individual loans that are used to start or expand a small business; savings products geared towards meeting the needs of the poor; currency exchange services that allow Haitians to change US dollars into Haitian gourdes at a preferential rate; and literacy, business skills, and good health practices training.
If you will not be at either service and would like to make a contribution, please write a check to “FCCB” and mark it “Christmas Eve”. You can drop it off at the church or send it to 2345 Channing Way, Berkeley CA 94704.
Thanksgiving Bonanza!
November 18, 2007
The Kitchen Community Ministry Team announced that the First Congregational community had donated enough food and money to make up 35 Thanksgiving meal boxes and 35 turkeys which will be distributed by the Berkeley Food and Housing Project! The team coordinator, Judith Norberg, was impressed with the response that came in in just a couple of weeks time. YES (the junior high youth group) were very helpful in inventorying and organizing the boxes. Diane Brenum also helped with that task as did Stephanie Perez, a UC work-study student who is one of the front desk receptionists at the church, and volunteered some of her own time. The FCCB staff donated 8 boxes.
The Kitchen Community Ministry Team also prepared Thanksgiving dinner for the Youth Emergency Assistance Hostel (YEAH) the day before Thanksgiving. Find out more about the Kitchen Community Ministry Team.
Author Barbara Becnel Shares Stanley Tookie Williams’ Story
November 15, 2007
It has been almost two years since Stanley Tookie Williams was executed after being denied clemency by California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. In the wake of his death, Stanley Tookie Williams’ memoir Blue Rage, Black Redemption, has been rereleased to shed additional light on Tookie’s personal and public fight for redemption. Barbara Becnel who helped Williams write his memoir, shared his story along with a panel that included a personal friend and former Crips gang member.
Part 1 of the book, entitled Blue Rage, chronicles Tookie’s gang life as a co-founder of the Crips. During this time he committed hundreds of crimes and was eventually charged with the murder of four people. In 1981, Tookie was convicted and sent to Death Row for twenty years. Throughout his time in prison, he maintained his innocence for the crimes for which he was convicted. The second part of the book, Black Redemption, looks at the work Tookie completed and legacy he crafted behind bars—his books, awards, anti-gang initiatives, and Nobel Prize nominations.
Youth Organize “Fifth Sunday” Collection for Berkeley Food and Housing Project
September 30, 2007
Every time a “5th Sunday” occurs in a month, a special offering is taken during worship. For September 30, the 6th-8th grade Sunday School class encouraged us to collect items for the Berkeley Food and Housing Project (BFHP). To help ease and end the crisis of homelessness in our community, the BFHP provides emergency food and shelter, transitional housing and assistance, and long-term placement with support services to homeless individuals and families. During the offering that morning, the youth brought forward several baskets brimming with all sorts of items that will be helpful to the people served by BFHP.
Tomasiello Shares South Africa Stories
September 16, 2007
Paul Tomasiello shared his stories and slides from his recent trip to South Africa during Second Hour on Sunday, September 16. On behalf of the South Africa Ministry Team, Paul presented a check for $2700 to Queen Monamudi (shown at the right), a college student and former “ground-BREAKER” at loveLife, a nationwide HIV/AIDS prevention campaign. While there, Paul journeyed to her family’s home an hour outside Johannesburg, visited her college, shared an African meal and attended a local church with her. We are excited about making this meaningful connection in another part of the world.
Beyond Prisons Book Discussion
August 5, 2007
Dorothy Streutker led two Second Hour book discussions on Beyond Prisons: A New Interfaith Paradigm for Our Failed Prison Systems on August 5 and 12 in the Small Assembly after worship.
Beyond Prisons is a strong indictment of the current prison system, undertaken by two respected experts on behalf of the American Friends Service Committee: Laura Magnani, Assistant Regional Director for Justice of the American Friends Service Committee (Pacific Mountain Region), and Harmon L. Wray, Director of the Vanderbilt Program in Faith and Criminal Justice. The book traces the history and features of our penal system, offers strong ethical and moral assessments of it, and lays out a whole new paradigm of criminal justice based on restorative justice and reconciliation.
Beyond Prisons opens a long-needed national dialogue on our responsibilities as citizens and as a nation to provide remediation rather than mere retributive incarceration, answerable to the common good and the justice of God. The book study is sponsored by the Criminal Justice Ministry Team.
5th Sunday Donations Benefit Alameda County Food Bank
July 29, 2007
On Sunday, July 29, FCCB members brought food donations for the Alameda County Community Food Bank. The Ministry of Outreach, Mission and Service organizes these opportunities to contribute on each 5th Sunday during the year. The Food Bank has been serving the community since 1985 and provides food assistance for 40,000 low-income Alameda County residents each week, including 14,000 children and 7,000 seniors. Most adults served are among the working poor.
FCCB Members “Boogey to Church” to Save the Planet
July 15, 2007
Spurred by the Climate Action Ministry Team, many FCCB members left their cars at home and found other ways to get to church on Sunday, July 15. Some took public transportation, some walked or rode bikes and others carpooled to cut down on vehicle use. It was estimated that 30 or 40 cars got a “day of rest” as a result.
Climate Action Ministry Team member Michele McGeoy created tags that were worn by those who took alternative transportation. FCCB members are encouraged to make this a habit as they travel to church and other locations!
Farmers’ Market Donates to Food Pantry
July 1, 2007
The FCCB Farmers’ Market Table recently donated $2,135.52 to the Berkeley Food Pantry. Thanks to the volunteers and supporters of this ministry. Each week, church members bring food and flowers from their gardens that are then sold to other church members during the fellowship time after church. Local bakeries and Starbucks also donate pastries, which volunteers faithfully pick up each week and bring to church. All of the proceeds go to the Berkeley Food Panty. Bring in your extra bounty from your garden to support those who may be hungry!
FCCB Author Investigates War Contractors
June 20, 2007
In Betraying Our Troops, FCCB member Dina Rasor and her colleague Robert Bauman disclose the ways in which private contractors have achieved previously unheard of income levels while threatening the welfare of countless American soldiers. Using the experiences of individual troops and contractor employees, the book details the shameful war profiteering of well-known companies and brings the reader to understand the real dangers this has posed to the effectiveness of our fighting forces. Rasor and Bauman spoke at FCCB on Wednesday, June 20.
TEARS Ministry Team to Show Abu Ghraib Film
June 16, 2007
The TEARS Ministry Team which is working to stop the use of torture, sponsored a showing of the film “Ghosts of Abu Graib”, an HBO documentary dealing with the abuse of prisoners at Abu Ghraib prison in Iraq. This showing was part of a nationwide effort of the National Religious Campaign Against Torture (NRCAT) to share copies of the film with 1000 congregations across the country.
Read more on the TEARS Ministry Team News Page.
Ebelio Continues FCCB Connection with New Orleans
May 30, 2007
Ebelio Mondragon has returned to the Gulf Region as part of a work team organized by The Magnolia Project, a group of students from UC Berkeley who are concerned about the Gulf Region. Ebelio went on the last FCCB work team in March of this year. He is having interesting experiences connecting with some of the agencies and organizations that are emerging to help Katrina victims. You can read his reflections on the FCCB Katrina Blog.
ONA Network Hosts LGBT National Leader
May 21, 2007
The Rev. Ruth Garwood, national coordinator of the UCC Coalition for LGBT Concerns, was hosted at FCCB by the ONA Network. Ruth and the Coalition are leading the effort to expand the number of open-and-affirming congregations within the UCC denomination and filled us in on other aspects of her ministry of inclusion. She also met with the FCCB staff and attended the Northern California Nevada Conference (UCC) Annual Meeting at Asilomar. The Coalition is one of the program agencies that have been supported by grants from the Outreach, Mission and Service Ministry at First Congregational.
5th Sunday Offering for Network Ministries in the SF Tenderloin
April 29, 2007
Network Ministries serves the San Francisco Tenderloin neighborhood with a variety of projects. For April’s Fifth Sunday offering, FCCB members brought a variety of supplies requested by the Ministry’s Executive Director Rev. Glenda Hope. Hope had visited FCCB during Lent when our theme was “Filled With Compassion” to share stories about the people who live in that area. She has been working in the Tenderloin for many years and has been a consistant advocate for the people in that area.
Find out more about Network Ministries and the Rev. Glenda Hope
When there are five Sundays in a month, the Ministry of Outreach, Mission and Service organizes donations for various agencies in the Bay Area that are brought to worship on that morning. The gifts are brought to the communion table as part of our morning offering.
New South Africa Ministry Team to Support Young Student
April 29, 2007
David Harris’ visit to FCCB in March has sparked the beginning of a ministry team dedicated to finding ways to help South Africans further their own effort for positive social change. A group has begun that effort by agreeing to support a young woman named Queen Manamudi. Despite a daily struggle for food and other basic needs, Queen is becoming a leader in her community. Queen has been accepted to a 4-year program that includes community service. She needs $2000 for her first year. The new members of South Africa Voices for Empowerment (SAVE) will meet May 7 from 6 to7 pm in the Balcony Room. If you would like to contribute to Queen as well as support South Africa in other ways, please join us. Checks may be made out to “FCCB/Queen” and sent to the church office.
First Congregational Staff and Members Join CROP Walk
April 22, 2007
On April 22, members and staff of FCCB walked around Lake Merritt to raise money to fight hunger as part of the Church World Service CROP Walk. Marijke Fakasiieiki, the Assistant Regional Director for Church World Service/CROP–Northern California, has her office at FCCB and is a member of our congregation.
Rebuilding Together
April 21 & 28, 2007
A group of FCCB members gathered over two weekends to do repairs on a home in Berkeley as part of the Rebuilding Together program. This national agency pair up work teams with homeowners who may not be able to afford necessary home repairs. FCCB has been involved in this program, which used to be called “Christmas in April”, for several years.
80 Gather at Climate Action Rally!
April 14, 2007
(Click on the photo to see a larger version). 80 people from age 8 to 80 braved the rain to attend FCCB’s Step It Up 2007 rally at the busiest intersection in Emeryville—a spot that will be under 5 feet of water without dramatic action to reduce carbon emissions. The large number of people who attended enabled us to cover 3 corners of the intersection. It was an amazing, completely grassroots effort—complete with spontaneous cheers (“carbon, carbon everywhere; come on, Congress, don’t you care?”) and constant honks of support. Read more about this inspiring event.
See photos of other Step It Up events all over the country!
South African AIDS Activist Speaks at FCCB
April 14, 2007
David Harrison, CEO of loveLife, a South African AIDS organization targeting youth and young adults, preached at FCCB on Sunday, March 18. David, who attended FCCB several years ago while he was getting a degree in Public Policy, used the story of the Prodigal Son as a jumping off place to talk about how we practice compassion, especially in the face of serious social problems. He was inspiring and informative, and his “Second Hour” presentation was a compelling demonstration of how an organization can deal with both the personal and systemic issues surrounding difficult issues like the spread of AIDS.
The loveLife approach involves a compelling publicity campaign and outreach in many forms all over South Africa. It approaches the problem not only by providing prevention information but also by giving young people a new sense of confidence and self-esteem and hope for their futures that will empower them to make good decisions.
Listen to David Harrison’s sermon on compassion here.
Find out more about loveLife at their website www.lovelife.org.za.
Members of the First Congregational community are also actively involved in many sorts of witness and social action. A group gathered after church on March 18, 2007, to go to a rally in San Francisco protesting the war in Iraq. Although we never presume as individuals or groups to speak for the entire congregation, we do strongly support the expression of opinions, ideas, and values, and the necessity to take action.
First Congregational Dedicates Peace Pole
December 3, 2006
On Sunday morning, Dec. 3, about 60 people gathered before worship to dedicate First Congregational’s new Peace Pole, which has the phrase “May Peace Prevail on Earth” in eight different languages. The pole was installed on the front lawn of the church. Songs were sung and rose petals were strewn around the pole.