The Oasis

Sunday, January 29, 2012

2012-01-29T13:22:00.000-05:00

Tonight's gathering has been cancelled due to illness.

Politics

2012-01-24T07:11:00.002-05:00

In the midst of all the political ads and debates, please remember to check the facts:
www.factcheck.org (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FactCheck)
www.politifact.com
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/fact-checker

Update for Jan. 15

2012-01-10T07:24:00.001-05:00

We will be meeting downstairs in the Park Alley Tavern (in the pub) this Sunday evening.

Upcoming Events in 2012

2011-12-27T14:43:00.004-05:00

We have 3 book studies on tap for the beginning of 2012:

Jan. 15-Feb 12: Beyond Belief: The Secret Gospel of Thomas by Elaine Pagels
Feb. 19: Quarterly Meeting & Ash 'Wednesday' observance
Feb. 26-Apr. 1: Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time by Marcus Borg
Apr. 8: Easter
Apr. 22-May 20: Eternal Life: A New Vision by John Shelby Spong

We continue to meet at the Park Alley Tavern Banquet Room in Old Pickerington at 6:30 pm on Sunday evenings.

Quarterly Meeting

2011-12-05T08:10:00.001-05:00

Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011
6:30 pm
The Park Alley Tavern, Pickerington
We will be meeting downstairs in the pub.

New Location!

2011-10-07T07:56:00.003-04:00

Join us at our new location:
Park Alley Tavern Banquet Room
19 N. Center St
Pickerington

On the northwest corner of Center and Columbus (256) Streets.
Above the Village Crepe and across from the police sub-station.
Enter through the side door off of the patio (under the deck).
We meet upstairs. There is a lift for accessibility.

http://parkalleytavern.com

Fall Schedule 2011

2011-08-21T21:13:00.002-04:00

Fri/Sat, 8-26-27 Amish Country Retreat
Sun 8-28 No gathering

9-4 potluck and Movie (Monty Python’s Holy Grail)
9-11 Worship: Remembering 9-11 (at Dick’s)
9-18 Misquoting Jesus: an overview of Biblical translation
9-24 Dead Sea Scrolls (at Eileen & Kim’s)

10-2 Nag Hammadi
10-9 Heiros Gamos
10-16 Heiros Gamos in the Hebrew scripture
10-23 God as Spouse
10-30 Worship: All Hallow’s

11-6 Song of Solomon
11-13 Jesus as Bridegroom
11-20 Mary Magdalene: traditional view
11-27 Thanksgiving Potluck and Worship (at Scott & Luann’s)

12-4 Mary Magdalene: contemporary view
12-11 Gospel of Mary
12-18 Gospel of the Beloved Companion
12-25 Worship: Christmas
1-1-12 Worship: New Year’s

All gatherings at Deb & Gail's unless otherwise noted.

Yoga

2011-06-22T08:11:00.001-04:00

Tuesday June 28: 7:00 pm @ Deb & Gail's
Saturday, June 25: noon @ AuraColumbus
Saturday, July 2: noon @ AuraColumbus

Summer Retreat: Amish Country

2011-06-10T20:00:00.004-04:00

We will be traveling to Amish Country for our end-of-summer retreat on August 26-28th.
Tentative itinerary:
Friday, August 26:
9:00 am leave Reynoldsburg
Lehman's General Store (www.lehmans.com)
Lunch at Der Dutchman Restaurant (www.dhgroup.com/en/wc/wc-restaurant.php)
Yoder's Amish Home (www.yodersamishhome.com)
Heini's Cheese chalet (www.heinis.com)
Saturday, August 27:
breakfast at camp
Behalt Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center (www.behalt.com)
lunch in Berlin (www.heartofamishcountry.com)
afternoon to shop in Berlin or return to camp to enjoy its space

We'll be staying at Pilgrim Hills Camp (http://ocucc.org/OutdoorMin/PilgrimHills/Pilgrimhills.htm) Cost is $37/person/night. Breakfast is $5.50.

Please contact us if you'd like to join us!

Schedule for Summer Book Study

2011-06-10T19:49:00.002-04:00

Book: The Year of Living Biblically by A.J. Jacobs.

June 19: Intro & Month 1 (Sept)
June 26: Months 2 & 3 (Oct & Nov)
July 4: No gathering
July 10: Months 4 & 5 (Dec & Jan)
July 17: Months 6 & 7 (Feb & Mar)
July 24: Months 8 & 9 (Apr & May)
July 31: Months 10 & 11 (June & July)
Aug 7: No gathering
Aug 14: Month 12 (Aug)
Aug 21: Quarterly Meeting
Aug 26-28: Amish Country Retreat

Yoga

2011-05-22T17:31:00.002-04:00

Due to summer schedules, we're trying to offer a week night alternative. Here is the schedule for the start of June:

Saturday, June 4th: Noon at Aura Columbus, 382 E. Town St., Columbus
Tuesday, June 14th: 7:00 pm at Deb & Gail's.
(Please bring your own mats, straps, blocks if you have them.)

We will schedule each week as we coordinate schedules.

Schedule

2011-05-20T08:46:00.002-04:00

May 29th: No gathering (Memorial Sunday)
June 5th: Quarterly Meeting
June 12th: No meeting
June 19th: Start book study: A Year of Living Biblically by A. J Jacobs.
This book is one man's attempt to live the Bible as literally as possible. 'The resulting spiritual journey is at once funny and profound, reverent and irreverent, personal and universal, and will make you see history's most influential book with new eyes.'

It's Official!

2011-05-02T16:34:00.003-04:00

This Saturday, May 7th, we will be at the CSEO Association Spring Meeting to be granted full standing in the United Church of Christ.
Location: Advent UCC, 2303 N Cassady, Columbus.
Registration: 8:45 am
Worship: 9:30 am
Should conclude around 2:30 pm

Oikos

2011-05-02T16:32:00.001-04:00

Coming in May:

May 8: Mother Earth
May 15: Food Inc. (movie)
May 22: Guest from Local Matters

Schedule change

2011-03-22T21:15:00.001-04:00

Due to the business of obtaining our non-profit status, we need to change our schedule on the book study. The new schedule is:

March 27: incorporation discussion
April 3: no gathering
April 10: Community
April 17: Forgiveness
April 24: Easter
May 1: Sovereignty of God

Japan

2011-03-19T10:53:00.000-04:00

For giving via the United Church of Christ: http://www.ucc.org/disaster/japan-earthquake-2011/

Prayers for Japan: http://www.ucc.org/disaster/japan-earthquake-2011/prayers-for-japan.html

Yoga Class

2011-03-06T11:39:00.002-05:00

A gentle yoga class is now meeting each Saturday at noon at Aura, 382 E. Town St. , Columbus, Ohio 43215. (2nd house east of Grant on Town St.) The $50 per class group cost is divided by how many people are present each week.

Amish Peace

2011-02-11T08:28:00.005-05:00

On March 6th we will start a book study on Amish Peace: Simple Wisdom for a Complicated World by Suzanne Woods Fisher. It is a collection of short reads about Amish life and values. A good way to get to know our neighbors and to reflect on our own life values.

Schedule:
March 6: Simplicity (pp. 13-54)
March 13: Time (pp. 55-94)
March 20: Discussion of Incorporation with church lawyer
March 27: Community (pp. 95-150)
April 3: NO GATHERING
April 10: Forgiveness (pp. 151-184)
April 17: Sovereignty of God (pp.185-213)

April 24: Easter

Books can be ordered through our website's link to Amazon.

Start the New Year with Yoga

2010-12-29T18:26:00.000-05:00

This Sunday, Jan 2, we will be introduced to the spirituality of yoga. It's not just exercise!
We need to meet at Aura Columbus Yoga Spa & Boutique by 6:30 pm.

Aura is located at 382 E. Town St. downtown near the library and Grant hospital.
http://www.auracolumbus.com/solstice/

Dress in comfortable, loose clothing.

Advent

2010-11-22T08:25:00.002-05:00

Sunday, Nov. 28th is the start of the liturgical pre-Christmas season known as Advent: 4 weeks until Christmas!
On 11-28, 12-5 & 12-12 we will be looking at the women listed in Matthew's genealogy of Jesus. It is rare for women to even be mentioned and these gals have some stories to tell! (In fact, they dove-tail beautifully with our Troublesome Tales series.)

On Dec. 19 we will be out of town so no gathering is planned.

We need feedback to decide whether to observe Christmas on Friday 12-24 or our usual Sunday 12-26. Some folks are out of town; some still like a traditional candlelight-and-organ-music service; some will be with family on Christmas Eve.

Troublesome Texts

2010-10-15T12:08:00.002-04:00

This fall we will be looking at some of the texts that raise questions for people: Adam & Eve, Noah, Sodom & Gomorrah, the near-sacrifice of Isaac, Jephthah's daughter, the witch of Endor, Onan, etc. (not necessarily in that order). Though we may not answer all the questions, we hope to gain more insight into the texts themselves.
Sunday evenings, 6:30 pm, a Deb & Gail's.

Schedule

2010-09-21T07:13:00.003-04:00

October 3rd: Walking the Labyrinth
Location: Gender Road Christian Church
Directions: http://www.genderroadcc.com/where.htm
Time: 6:30 pm; Meet at the church.

October 10th: Meeting with Association Minister Forrest Hoppe to discuss formalizing our group.
Location: Deb & Gail's
Time: 6:30 pm

Native Ministries

2010-08-15T20:19:00.002-04:00

Thanks to Heather for sharing with us her experiences at the Native Ministries Consortium in Vancouver last month and at All Nations UCC in Minnesota.
For more info on UCC Native Minitries see:
http://caimucc.org/
http://caimucc.org/all_nations_church.html
http://www.ucc.org/about-us/hidden-histories/american-indians-missions.html

Some other points of interest:
http://www.ucc.org/justice/racism/negative-stereotyping.html

Haiti

2010-07-20T19:36:00.001-04:00

This Sunday, July 25th, we will have a speaker from Haiti. Pelege Lareus is the founder of Hand-to-Hand Haiti: http://handtohandhaiti.com/

Movie Night: July 11th

2010-07-06T20:56:00.004-04:00

This Sunday we will be watching The Mission, starring Robert DeNiro and Jeremy Irons. It is a powerful rendition of the history of the church in South America, depicting how the natives were caught in the tensions between secular and religious powers.

We will start by 6:00 pm (possibly a little earlier if everyone gets here.) The movie is 125 minutes and we would like to be done close to 8:00 pm for those who have to work the next morning.

The film is rated PG -- violence and mild nudity.

For more info on the film:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Mission_%281986_film%29
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvWaD-NErlY

Sunday, July 18th we will discuss the movie and the history it depicts. (6:30 pm)

Sunday, June 20th

2010-06-15T08:13:00.001-04:00

This coming Sunday Deb Riley will lead us in a drumming circle. You are welcome to bring your own percussion instruments (drums, tambourines, maracas, etc.) or use one of ours. Freewill offering.

No gathering on June 6th.

2010-06-01T20:37:00.001-04:00

We will resume on June 13th.
We will also not be meeting on July 4th and August 8th.

Summer Schedule

2010-05-03T09:36:00.002-04:00

May 30: potluck
June 6: no gathering
July 4th: tentative potluck
August 8: no gathering
August 28: retreat at The Winery at Otter Creek
August 29: no gathering

Spring Retreat

2010-03-29T07:51:00.002-04:00

We have tentative plans for a Spring Fling on Saturday, April 24th. Consensus was to return to The Winery at Otter Creek in Johnstown. Like last fall, we will plan to leave Reynoldsburg around 11:30-11:45 am with the goal of getting started there around 12:30 pm. We will do a couple of hours of study/worship (topic tbd) and then enjoy the setting, community, and music for a relaxing afternoon. Again, we will need people to bring bread/crackers, cheese, fruit, chocolate and whatever else goes well with wine.
For more info on the winery: http://www.thewineryatottercreek.com/

Sunday, March 28

2010-03-27T20:40:00.003-04:00

We've completed our Faithfully Facing Dying series. Tomorrow is the start of Holy Week with Palm/Passion Sunday. We will take a fresh look at what this week is about.

Faithfully Facing Dying

2010-03-07T20:36:00.001-05:00

This Spring (yes, I am hopeful) we are discussing issues around dying: Advanced Directives, Palliative Care, Hospice, Physician Assisted Suicide, and Funerals. Please see our Mind blog for current information and link to study guide.

Haiti

2010-01-19T07:48:00.002-05:00

I shared in an earlier email that a friend of our son is from Haiti and had family members missing. (http://www2.nbc4i.com/cmh/news/local/article/Central_Ohio_Man_With_Ties_To_Haiti_Prays_For_Missing_Loved_Ones/29885/) All have been found and are okay.

Pelege coordinates a non-profit organization to help the people of Haiti. You can find information at http://www.handtohandhaiti.org.

UCC information can be found at: http://www.ucc.org/disaster/major-earthquake-strikes.html

Prayers, etc. can be found at http://www.textweek.com/response/natural_disaster.htm

January 2010

2010-01-17T18:11:00.002-05:00

For our study time, we are currently looking at some of the early church history -- What did the first gatherings look like? How did we become an ecclesiastical institution?
For our Spirit time, we are learning how to use the Lord's Prayer for meditation, not just citing it rotely. To do this we are going back to the original prayer in Aramaic.

Potluck

2009-09-01T19:56:00.002-04:00

Since it is a holiday weekend, we will have a casual potluck for our gathering on Sunday (9/6). Deb & Gail's house; 6: 30 pm.

The Vine & Wine

2009-08-30T09:44:00.020-04:00

We had a great time on our mini-retreat at The Winery at Otter Creek! Beautiful and relaxing.

Our Bible study time included having one of the owners, Mike, explain to us about vine-dressing and wine-making.

Good music by AcousticShu!

A day to learn, relax, fellowship and enjoy!

Mini-Retreat

2009-08-15T19:45:00.002-04:00

The Vine and Wine:

Exploring Biblical Images of the Winery

Saturday, August 29, 2009

The Winery at Otter Creek

5291 Bennington Chapel Road
Johnstown, Ohio 43031
http://www.thewineryatottercreek.com/

Schedule:
11:30 Departure
12:30 Arrival and Registration
12:45 Welcome, Introduction, etc.
1:00 Bible Study
2:00 Presentation by Winemakers
2:30 Worship
3:00 Live music by Acousticshu (http://acousticshu.com)
Winetasting (optional, $3)
Koinonia (Greek for socializing, partnership, communication, fellowship)

Please RSVP to TheOasisUCC@yahoo.com

Sign up to bring bread, crackers, cheese, dipping oils, fruit, meats, chocolate, etc.
Bottles of wine may be purchased at the winery.

July 5th Cookout

2009-06-22T19:59:00.002-04:00

When we gather on Sunday, July 5th, let's meet at 6:00 pm and share in a cookout/potluck.

Summer Book Discussion

2009-05-04T17:04:00.002-04:00

For our summer gatherings we will be reading and discussing The Faith Club: A Muslim, A Christian, A Jew -- Three Women Search for Understanding by Ranya Idliby, Suzanne Oliver, and Priscilla Warner. (The book can be ordered through the Amazon link on our main website).
This inter-faith dialogue will help us reflect on our own faith understandings as well as expand our understanding of others.

We will begin Sunday, May 31st, 6-6:30 pm gathering time, starting discussion at 6:30 pm. For the summer we will meet in Deb & Gail's carport so dress casually and comfotably.

Please read the following website pages before the first meeting.
http://www.thefaithclub.com/startafaithclub/kit/10things.pdf
http://www.thefaithclub.com/startafaithclub/kit/Things%20To%20Know%20-%20Judaism.pdf
http://www.thefaithclub.com/startafaithclub/kit/Things%20to%20Know%20-%20Islam.pdf
http://www.thefaithclub.com/startafaithclub/kit/Things%20to%20Know%20-%20Christianity.pdf

Reclaiming Jesus

2009-03-01T12:12:00.002-05:00

I want to start a conversation about Jesus. The term "Christian" can at times be an embarrassment, so how do we reclaim what it means? How do we understand who Jesus was and what he did and what that means for those of us who identify with him in some way?
Think about what you have been taught about Jesus, what you're questioning, what doesn't work for you and bring those thoughts to our gathering Sunday evening and we'll see where this takes us!
We'll begin tonight, March 1st, 6:30 pm.

Study on Discernment

2009-01-07T09:15:00.002-05:00

It is my aim, as your pastor, to NOT tell you what to think and believe, but to give you the tools to determine that for yourselves. We have taken on some challenging subjects this past fall -- concepts of heaven & hell, the virgin birth theologies, etc. -- so it seems appropriate to turn next to the issue of Discernment.

If you have ever wondered what to believe when inundated with the myriad of theologies and opinions that are out there, if you have ever wondered if/how/where God was directing your life, if you are tired of the traditional political structure of many churches, this might help!

We will be using the book Discerning God's Will Together by Danny E. Morris & Charles M. Olsen. We will start with the Intro & Chapter 1 this Sunday (1-11) and roughly, do a chapter per week after that.

I will be posting other resources on http://mindattheoasis.blogspot.com/ so check there as we go along.

Tired of the typical holiday?

2008-12-02T09:13:00.000-05:00

Alternative Christmas Resources:

http://www.simpleliving.org/
http://www.ppjr.org/altchrst/
http://www.buynothingchristmas.org/alternatives/index.html
http://firstchurch-winchester.org/docs/Reclaiming%20Christmas.pdf

Upcoming events

2008-11-19T07:54:00.002-05:00

Sunday, November 23rd, 6:30 - 8:00 pm
Pre-Thanksgiving Soup potluck
At Luann & Scott's (call or email for directions)

Starting November 30th:
A New Look at Christmas: We will look at some of traditions surrounding the holidays and challenge some of the sugar-coating placed on this time of year!
At Deb & Gail's.

Also November 30th: Our Spirit time will be in recognition of World AIDS Day.

December 24th: Christmas Eve potluck and service

Coming in January & February: Discernment
We often wrestle with the questions,
"Where is God in all this?"
"Is this what God would have me/us do?"
"Is this a good decision?"
Discernment is the term used to explore these and similar questions. We will look at its biblical basis, history, and methods as we learn way to discern the direction of our own lives.

Thank you!

2008-09-10T18:12:00.002-04:00

Thanks to Dublin Community for the gift of 27 pew Bibles and 3 hymnals.
Thanks to North Church for the gift 20 hymnals in memory of Kate Spencer and 2 from Joann Ney.
We really appreciate the resources these bring to our ministry and are grateful for your partnership with us in this outreach!

Upcoming Events

2008-08-26T19:39:00.002-04:00

August 31, 6:30 pm - Potluck and community time.
Meat & cheese provided. Bring whatever you'd like to add to the feast.

September 7, 6:30-8:30 pm - What the H?! A study on concepts of hell and heaven.
Images of hell and heaven are often used to manipulate belief. Where do these come from? (not all are biblical!) The first hour is study time; the 2nd is for spiritual sustenance.

We will continue to meet at Deb & Gail's (e-mail TheOasisUCC@yahoo.com or call 614-581-8914 for directions.)

Upcoming Events

2008-07-29T13:18:00.002-04:00

Sunday, August 10th:
Linda Schoen, member of our partner congregation North Church, will share with us her pilgrimage on El Camino de Santiago (The Way of St. James) in Spain. This was one of the most important pilgrimages in medieval times. (see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Way_of_St._James). Linda is a Spiritual Director and also Dean of Professional and Graduate Studies at Ohio Dominican University(http://www.ohiodominican.edu/about/news/2008/schoen.asp).

Sunday, August 17th: No gathering.

Sunday, August 24th: Conclusion of book discussion - Eat, Pray, Love

Sunday, August 31st: Cookout!

Sunday, June 13th

2008-07-10T17:46:00.001-04:00

We will pick back up with sections 51-60 in Eat, Pray, Love. For our Spirit time, Luann will lead us in an Introduction to Qi Gong, an eastern form of meditation.

Ice Cream Social

2008-06-29T10:39:00.003-04:00

Next weekend is a holiday, which means many of you are out of town. For those who are not, or if you get back by Sunday evening, we will be having an

Ice Cream Social!

At Deb & Gail's

(call 614-581-8914

or email TheOasisUCC@yahoo.com for directions)

6:30 pm

See you there!

Communing

2008-06-18T09:55:00.004-04:00

What a delightful time we had communing with one another in the truest sense of the word. Consequently we didn't have much time to discuss the book! We'll start with last Sunday's sections this Sunday and progress accordingly. Good discussion is more important than holding to an arbitrary schedule!
remember to check out the 'Mind' blog for questions to get you thinking. Use your new journals to respond.

Summer Book Discussion

2008-05-06T07:23:00.002-04:00

A lighter fare for the summer!
We will be discussing Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India, and Indonesia by Elizabeth Gilbert.
Discontent with her life, the writer takes a year sabbatical to do some soul searching. This book chronicles her spiritual journey, her struggles and insights, as she travels.

We will meet at Deb & Gail's (call or email for directions, if you need them) at 6:30 -8:00 pm on Sunday evenings, starting June 1st.

This book is a New York Times bestseller, so it is easy to find. Or you can order it through the Amazon link on our website and the proceeds benefit The Oasis. Thanks!

Upcoming Events

2008-04-28T20:11:00.003-04:00

May 4th:
Mind: Exclusivism and John 14:6: Taking a New Look
Spirit: Mandalas

May 11th: Mothering Spirit (Mother's Day & Pentecost)

May 18th:
The UCC has called for on observance of "Sacred Conversations on Race."

May 25th:
Potluck supper at Pastor Deb's (call or e-mail for directions).
Spirit: begging bowls

Mission Trip Report

2008-04-23T08:52:00.003-04:00

This Sunday, April 27th, Janet will tell us about the mission trip to Nicaragua with area UCC congregants. She'll share some of her photos and reflect on her experience there last month.

Sunday, March 30th

2008-03-25T07:26:00.002-04:00

We will not be gathering this Sunday, March 30th. We will see you again on Sunday, April 6th.

Politics

2008-03-23T12:15:00.004-04:00

As many of you know, Barak Obama is a member of our denomination as he attends Trinity UCC in Chicago. The recent controversy over his pastor has raised many questions. To read our denominational president's response, go to http://www.ucc.org/news/responding-to-wright.html.

Article in The Christian Century: http://www.christiancentury.org/article.lasso?id=4678

Also interesting: http://www.bishoppearson.com/mediaArchives/True%20Patriots.PDF

Good Friday Service

2008-03-07T15:51:00.003-05:00

We will be joining with several other UCC and Disciples of Christ congregations for a community Good Friday Service.

Friday, March 21 at 7:30 pm at Gender Road Christian Church.
http://www.genderroadcc.com/where.html

The Chancel Choir from Gender Road , the bell choir and contemporary band/ensemble from David’s UCC are providing the music for the evening. Clergy from several churches will be participating in leadership.

Ash Sunday: Dust in the Wind

2008-01-28T21:47:00.000-05:00

In the traditional church calendar, the season of Lent starts with Ash Wednesday (which this year falls on Feb. 6th). Since we meet on Sundays, we will explore this tradition on Sunday, February 10th (usual times and place). We will have live music for our Spirit time: AcousticShu (http://www.acousticshu2.moonfruit.com/) Hope you can join us!

Study materials

2008-01-05T13:54:00.000-05:00

I've set up a separate blog where I can post some of the study materials we'll be using for our 'Mind' sessions. You can find it at http://MindatTheOasis.blogspot.com.

2007-12-30T19:31:00.000-05:00

Seen on a bumper sticker:

"Faith is a journey,
not a guilt trip."

Amen!

The Return of Light: Winter Solstice Celebration

2007-12-07T18:43:00.000-05:00

If you are interested in our winter solstice/Christmas celebration, you may also be interested in this:
"A winter solstice celebration at the UCC's Amistad Chapel in Cleveland will be webstreamed Dec. 21 through Jan. 2 at ucc.org."
More info can be found at http://www.ucc.org/ucnews/jan08/winter-solstice-at-uccorg.html

The service can be found at http://www.ucc.org/winter-solstice/return-of-the-light.html

Christmas Eve Eve Service

2007-11-21T13:02:00.000-05:00

No that's not a typo. We are looking to do a Christmas service on the evening before Christmas Eve, i.e., Sunday, December the 23rd, probably around 6:00 pm. Check back for updates as we get details worked out!

Being your true self

2007-11-21T13:00:00.001-05:00

In our discussion the other night about Jesus accepting us as we are, Robert shared the lyrics to 'I Am What I Am' from La Cage Aux Folles. You can find those lyrics at http://www.allthelyrics.com/lyrics/la_cage_aux_folles_soundtrack/i_am_what_i_am-lyrics-77491.html

New growth!

2007-10-06T17:37:00.000-04:00

Check out our new website: TheOasisUCC.com Thanks to Linda Langhurst of North Congregational for designing our logo and to Luann Riley for designing the site. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Go to Events and check out our upcoming book study. We should get some good discussion about our faith/spiritual journeys out of this one!

Catching Up!

2007-09-03T14:01:00.000-04:00

It looks like I'm falling behind here, so let me catch you up on what's going on.
Most significant was a week spent in Atlanta, GA at the Nehemiah Institute for New Church Development. Wow! So much was packed in to those days! At times it was an overwhelming amount of information, but all so helpful. The speakers were top-notch, representing a variety of ministries from all over the country -- truly the diversity of the UCC!

What I really appreciated was that we started by re-thinking and reclaiming the concepts of evangelism and conversion, stripping them of their current connotations of manipulation and coercion and returning to the early church of the scriptures when the gospel really was Good News for people. Secondly, I appreciated the emphasis on maintaining our own spirituality in the midst of the journey, in order that we don't loose track of God while trying to do God's work!

With that foundation laid, we then could move on to practical considerations like vision & mission, worship & discipleship, fundraising & stewardship, and diversity. Out of those discussions, it became clear that The Oasis needs to build a stronger core group before we attempt to launch something big like a regular worship service. We need a strong root system before sending up the sprout. We're not transplanting a tree here; we're planting a seed.

If you'd like to be a part of that core group or know of others in our area, please contact us. Initially we are looking at small gatherings -- a book study or service activity -- so that we can build a community before we build a congregation. We are also looking to hold some social gatherings of potentially interested folk where we can meet one another, learn of people's interests and needs, and generate ideas for future ministries of The Oasis. If you'd care to host a few friends, please contact us at TheOasisUCC@yahoo.com.

Next Meeting

2007-08-06T10:31:00.000-04:00

Thanks for a good meeting last night! Pieces are starting to come together.

We will meet again Sunday, August 26th at 6:30 pm at our home (E-mail TheOasisUcc@yahoo.com or call 614-581-2708 for location.)

Let me know if you can join us!

Deb

Meeting

2007-07-30T13:09:00.000-04:00

A meeting for anyone interested in participating in The Oasis will be held Sunday, August 5th at 6:30 pm. E-mail TheOasisUCC@yahoo.com or call 614-581-2708 for location.

Why should churches offer members?

2007-06-25T10:29:00.000-04:00

One of the request being made to partnering congregations is to loan us some of their members, particularly ones who live in the Reynoldsburg-Pataskala area or have particular gifts we need to establish this congregation. These folk become the seeds of the new congregation -- providing hospitality to those looking to join us and serving as mentor-leaders who integrate new folk into leadership roles. However, an initial reaction to such a request is to balk at the thought of 'losing' members they have worked hard to obtain. Why should they 'give up' active members who are often in leadership roles?

Two thoughts:

First of all, the Church has traditionally sent out missionaries to new places to offer the Good News to those living there. The predecessor bodies of the UCC have a rich history of establishing missionary societies to travel both overseas and further west across America as the frontier expanded (see http://www.ucc.org/about-us/short-course/education-and-mission.html). We continue to live in that heritage as the national body of the UCC looks to establish 250 new congregations by 2011 and 1600 by 2021! (See http://www.ucc.org/newchurch). The Oasis is one of those! And as such, we need missionaries to help us get established (at least we are not asking you to leave friends and family to set sail overseas and live among a new culture!) For Partnering Congregations it is an opportunity to provide outreach beyond their immediate neighborhood; it is a chance to carry on the UCC tradition of missions. And as we partner together, it is hoped that The Oasis will grow in ways which will allow us to share our gifts with Partnering Congregations by joining in the leadership of shared activities such as retreats or youth events or music programs. By partnering we hope to witness to being not separate congregations but One Body in Christ.

Secondly, I turn to John 15 :1-2 --
"I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful."

The Church typically gets so caught up in the first part of that 2nd verse that it misses the 2nd half! Not only do the 'unfruitful' branches get lopped, so do the fruitful ones! As congregations grow, they go through times of 'pruning,' times when they need to 'cut back' in order to prepare for more growth. Sometimes we do it intentionally; sometimes the Spirit does it whether we like it or not! It is usually easier to work with the Spirit in intentional pruning and growth.

Sending people out to start new congregations is a form of pruning for growth. It allows not only new life in the 'planted' congregation, but also generates new life for the sending congregation as new leaders emerge and new ministries develop.

And so we are looking for those folk who will be the grafts, cut from where they were in order to take root in a new site, to be the new life of The Oasis.

FAQs

2007-06-13T20:37:00.000-04:00

Where are you located?

We aren't--yet! We have identified the Reynoldsburg-Pataskala area on the east side of Columbus as our target area. We have also determined we will not be trying to purchase land or a building at this time in order for our time, energy, and resources to be spent on mission, not on building maintenance and improvements. (Quite honestly, I will be glad to let someone else worry about leaking roofs!) Leasing also allows us to grow our space as our congregation grows, leasing new space as size or ministry needs require. Once we have identified a location we will post information.

What is your time line?

This one makes me laugh, because I am asked to predict the movement of the Spirit. Hopefully, a group will begin to gather for worship the 1st Sunday after Labor Day (9-9-07).

Will you have programs for children and youth?

Ministry grows from the gifts and needs of the people. If we have children & youth, they will certainly be included as we assess the spiritual needs of the congregation. But it may or may not be a 'traditional' Sunday School program. I believe children & youth should be an integral part of the worship service (not just on a 'Youth Sunday.')
My first congregation was small so we got creative with an multi-age Christian education program (i.e., one class for toddlers through young adult!) We acted out "The Road to Emmaus" literally in the middle of a country road; a local farmer brought lambs for "Feed My Sheep;" we cooked breakfast on the shore of a pond for "Jesus' Appearance at the Lakeside." We not only had fun, but we got to experience the stories of scripture.
I don't like canned programs because I don't feel they address the specific spiritual needs of a particular group of people. Curriculum materials make good building blocks and can stimulate creative ideas. But, ideally, they should be built upon and adapted for the participants. Likewise, I don't like youth programs that are little more than social clubs which are only distinguished from other school and community activities by a brief time of devotions. Youth today are brighter than ever, deal with challenges and life issues we never dreamed of at their age (e.g., school shootings), and busier than any of us can keep up with. Let's treat them with a respect that honors those factors in their lives.

What is your worship style?

Eclectic! As Christians (and as human beings) we have a rich spiritual heritage. It is a shame to not feast at the smorgasbord! As individual members of a congregation, we bring a diversity of spiritualities to the table so worship needs to seek to provide something for everyone.
As a former Lutheran, I am well-versed in 'high church' liturgy -- all the smells and bells! My partner is a Baptist, traditionally a 'low church' style of worship. That spectrum has encouraged us to sample a variety of worship expressions, even including African drumming and Native American smudging!
The tricky part is balancing the variety of spiritual needs of a congregation in order to nurture the spirits of those gathered. Some need structure and familiarity to provide stability to life; others need the excitement of spontaneity. Some need quiet meditation; others need the joyous expression of praise. Some like the "good ol' hymns" while others prefer 'contemporary' -- jazz, rock, rap....
Worshipping together in community means respecting those differing needs when a part of the service doesn't speak to you. It means you 'try just a spoonful to see if you like it.' In so doing we are all enriched.

Principles

2007-05-30T12:50:00.000-04:00

One activity I did to clarify my own vision for leading this new congregation is to identify my own principles. This is what I'm about:

1. Honor the person.

All are welcome regardless of race, culture, or ethnicity; gender, orientation, or sexual identity; physical, mental, & emotional abilities; age, socio-economic status, marital status, personal theologies, etc.

Respect the worth, gifts, call and abilities of everyone.
Address issues of justice, peace, and mercy as they affect the lives of others.
Support and encourage one another towards spiritual maturity.

2. Respect the Journey

Christian scriptures are our primary guide.
Ecumenical in regards to differing theologies.
Open to inter-faith dialogue.
Eclectic in worship styles and spiritual disciplines.
Honor responsible freedom of conscience.

3. Trust the Spirit

We are called to continually discern the leading of the Spirit.
Tradition, history, doctrines, reason, etc. are mile markers, not destinations.
God brings Light to the darkest of situations.
Affirm that God is still speaking!

Sounds more like the name of a bar than a church

2007-05-29T10:00:00.000-04:00

'The Oasis' is not a typical name for a congregation (though a few are starting to use it); however, we are hoping that this is not a typical congregation!

An oasis is a place of refuge in a desert wilderness and that is what we hope to be -- a haven in the midst of the chaos and uncertainty of life, a place where people can gather to be refreshed and rejuvenated, a place to find sustenance on the journey. An oasis is "something serving as a refuge, relief, or pleasant change from what is usual, annoying, difficult, etc." http://http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/oasis The Oasis hopes to be the same.

An oasis is not a destination but a crossroads, a place where many paths intersect as people make their various journeys. It is a place where wayfarers and sojourners gather to share stories and experiences. Some are 'locals' whose business it is to welcome travelers, to offer food and water to sustain them, to provide hospitality to strangers. Others are passing through. They come from all walks of life and their paths will carry them forward to different places. But for a time they find refuge among us.

And yes, an oasis is a watering hole. It is a sad commentary on the Church that many people today find a greater welcome and acceptance in the local bar than in a local church. Bartenders have become our 'Father Confessors,' listening to our troubles. If someone comes into The Oasis thinking they've found a new bar in town, I hope they find as warm of a welcome, as strong of a community, and as open of listeners as they were looking for!

Getting Started

2007-05-28T20:09:00.000-04:00

That title applies both to me (this is the first I've tried blogging) and to The Oasis, a faith community being developed in the Reynoldsburg-Pataskala, Ohio area. This is a venture of the United Church of Christ (you may know us from the 'God is still speaking' campaign which featured the Bouncer and Ejector Seat ads.)

Our mission is simply hospitality and healing. Hospitality meaning everyone is welcome regardless of race, culture, or ethnicity; gender, orientation, or sexual identity; physical, mental, & emotional abilities; age, socio-economic status, marital status, personal theologies, etc. Healing refers to the myriad of wounds we carry as we go through life and includes spiritual healing and reconciliation, rejuvenation of faith, and restoration of wholeness for both individuals and community.

We are looking for those seeking an open approach to faith, for those looking for a place to ask questions, wrestle with ideas, and maybe even learn to live more comfortably with the unknowable aspect of Divine Mystery.

We are pilgrims on a journey. Some who have ventured further on the path, return to help those still coming along. Each walks at his or her own pace. Yet we walk together, lending a hand, sharing a load, pointing out the sites along the way.