61st Annual Meeting & Conference

of the National Association

of Congregational Christian Churches

Saturday, June 20 ~ 23, 2015

Salt Lake City, Utah

Hosted by the

First Congregational Church

of Salt Lake City

Program Booklet

Thank you to the 2015 Annual Meeting & Conference Sponsors!

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Sponsor of a Break

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Ministers and Missionaries Benefit Board

Sponsor of a Break

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Helping Sponsor the Bible Lecturer

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Helping Sponsor the Bible Lecturer

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Welcome to Salt Lake City!

The people of First Congregational Church of Salt Lake City warmly welcome you to the Beehive State. We are especially pleased to have you visit during 2015, which coincides with the celebration of our congregation’s 150th anniversary. The Psalmist wrote: Let the rivers clap their hands; let the mountains sing together for joy! (Psalm 98:8). We can think of no greater place than the Intermountain West to experience the joy of God’s creation. We hope that you find this year’s Annual Meeting and Conference to be rewarding. The various workshops and fellowship opportunities are sure to appeal to everyone. If you have questions while attending the conference workshops or any of the business sessions, please look for host committee volunteers wearing white and black bandanas. They will be able to direct you to the various meeting and workshop venues in the hotel. Also, be sure to visit our church members at the welcome table for more ideas about making your visit to Salt Lake City memorable. The table will be fully stocked with information about dining and sightseeing as well as information about riding public transportation which is free in the downtown area. Finally, our Host Committee has put together some authentic western entertainment for your enjoyment. You won’t want to miss Nino Reyos on Sunday evening. Nino is a notable flute player who was one of five Native American flute players chosen to perform during the opening ceremonies at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. On Monday night, we’ve arranged for two “Hired Guns” to entertain us with their cowboy singing, poetry and humor. Blessings to all of you from the people of First Congregational Church. Rev. Michael Chittum Carol Price Salt Lake City Host Committee Co-Chairs

GENERAL INFORMATION

NACCC REGISTRATION The NACCC registration is located in the Canyons Lobby of the Sheraton. You will need your badge before attending any Annual Meeting functions. Registration times are as follows: Friday: 3:00pm - 5:00pm

7:00pm - 8:00pm Saturday: 8:00am - 5:00pm

7:00pm - 8:00pm Sunday: 8:00am - 11:30am

1:00pm - 5:00pm Monday: 8:00am - 11:30am

1:00pm - 5:00pm Tuesday: 8:00am - 11:00am

MESSAGES

If you have a message to be announced before the body during a General Session, please ask a marshal to assist you.

YEAR ROUND DELEGATES’ GATHERING~Canyons

The Year Round Delegate gathering will be held Saturday from 10:15am to 11:00am, to support this very important element of the new NACCC structure. This session, designed especially for YRD's who are attending the Annual Meeting will provide them with an opportunity to ask questions about the future of the program and to make suggestions that will make it more useful to our member churches.

FIRST TIME ATTENDEES’ ORIENTATION~Canyons

A First Time Attendees’ Orientation will be held Saturday from 11:00am to 11:45pm. First Time Attendees will have a green box with 1st printed on their badge. Please provide a warm welcome and help them become acquainted with you and with others. DELEGATES AND VOTING ALTERNATES

Delegates and voting Alternates are asked to sit in the front during Business Sessions. EVENT LOCATIONS

Please check the Agenda in this Program Booklet for locations. If you have difficulty finding a room, check with the NACCC registration desk located in the Canyons Lobby of the Sheraton, ask hotel staff, or a Host Worker wearing a white and black bandana. Room assignments are subject to change due to uncontrollable circumstances. CHAPEL~ Sidewinder-[Mezzanine Level]

The NACCC’s Chapel is open 24/7 and will include daily events. QR CODES~Look for QR codes throughout the

meeting and conference and scan with your smart phone or tablet for easy access to websites and information. Scan this QRC to go directly to the NACCC’s Annual Meeting & Conference page.

GENERAL INFORMATION ~ continued

PASTORAL SEARCH AND INTERVIEW ROOM~Wildcat-[Mezzanine

Level] A Pastoral Search and Interview Room will be available and unlocked 24/7, with a posted schedule for room use and a helpful attendant on hand twice a day. Ministry Candidates will be able to:

review copies of Church Information Forms (CIF’s) for churches that have representatives at the conference

receive information on how to access/update their Ministers Information Form (MIF) and disclosure file and view other CIF’s online

get contact information for church representatives to arrange a meeting with them

Search Committee Representatives will be able to:

leave additional, non-confidential church information in the room

schedule conversations/interviews with interested parties without assistance from staff

distribute additional cards with their contact information while at the conference

Please use the sign-up sheet at the NACCC‘s registration desk to reserve confidential meeting time in this room. Please note: If the door is closed, the room is in use. MEALS AT THE SHERATON

Pre-registration of meals is required. Please check the day’s agenda for meal and reception locations. A limited number of meal tickets for purchase may be available at the NACCC registration desk. You must have your badge or meal ticket when entering meal events. If you requested dietary meals, present your special meal ticket to the waitstaff as soon as you are seated. BADGE CODES (will help you identify what you signed up for)

A badge with a black strip indicates you registered all four days which includes lunches; you will receive lunch tickets if you registered for single days. 1st ~ First Time Attendee Sa-B ~ Saturday-Buffet Breakfast Sa-ERT ~ Saturday-Editor’s Round Table Dinner AMCO ~ Saturday-AMCO/ICF Dinner Su-B ~ Sunday-Buffet Breakfast Su-CC ~ Sunday-Committee for Continuation CCC Breakfast Su-RG ~ Sunday-Classical Retreat Guides Breakfast Mission ~ Sunday-Missionaries Dinner M-B ~ Monday-Buffet Breakfast M-SRB ~ Monday-State & Regional Moderator's Breakfast M-D ~ Monday-Group Dinner Tu-B ~ Tuesday-Buffet Breakfast Tu-D ~ Tuesday-Group Dinner

AGENDA Locations are noted in italics.

(subject to change)

Saturday, June 20 Marketplace/Expo~Bryce & Canyons Lobby: 9:00am-Noon; 1:00pm-5:30pm 7:00am Morning Devotions-Rev. Patrick Hunt~Sidewinder 6:45am-8:15am Buffet Breakfast~Arches 9:00am Workshops~see Workshop pages 10:15am Year Round Delegates Q&A~Canyons 11:00am First Time Attendees’ Orientation~Canyons 11:00am Missionary Society Alumni Meeting ~Executive Boardroom 12:00pm Lunch~Arches/Deer Valley 1:30pm Opening/Business Session 1~Canyons

Call to Order Constituting Prayer Intro & Welcome from Host Committee Worship service Intro of Head Table

Establish Quorum/call to order Approve 2015 Agenda

Review of Standing Rules Approve 2014 Annual Meeting Minutes Appoint Minutes Certificate Committee Moderator’s Message Introduction and Vote on New Churches Installation of New Churches Dean of Center for Congregational Leadership -Rev. Dr. Betsey Mauro Executive Director

3:30pm Break 3:45pm Reports~Canyons

Ministry Council Leadership-Jim DeLine Growth-Rev. Chris Meirose Mission and Outreach-Greg Jurewicz Vitality-Barbara Erlendson Board of Directors-Laura Hamby The Congregational Foundation-Carolyn Sundquist Editor, The Congregationalist-Larry Sommers New Business to come before the assembly

4:30pm Congregational Lecture -Rev. Cynthia Bacon Hammer~Canyons 5:45pm AMCO/ICF Dinner~Arches 6:00pm Editor’s Round Table Dinner~Deer Valley 7:30pm Missionaries Reception~Lodge Lobby 9:30pm Taize-Dr. Helen Gierke~Sidewinder

AGENDA ~ continued Locations are noted in italics.

(subject to change)

Sunday, June 21 Marketplace/Expo~Bryce & Canyons Lobby: 8:00am-Noon; 1:00pm-5:30pm 6:30am Morning Devotions-Rev. J. R. McAlliley~Sidewinder 6:45am-8:15am Buffet Breakfast~Arches 7:00am Congregational Society of Classical Retreat Guides

Breakfast~Deer Valley Committee for Continuation of CCC Breakfast ~Deer Valley

9:00am Worship Service~Canyons Necrology

11:00am Missionaries presentation~Canyons 11:30am Executive Director-Meet-and-Greet~Lodge Lobby 12:00pm Lunch~Arches/Deer Valley 1:30pm Bible Lecture 1-Dr. Amy Erickson~Canyons 2:45pm Workshops Session I~see Workshop pages 3:45pm Beverage Break [sponsored by Church Mutual

Insurance]~Canyons Lobby 4:15pm Workshops Session 2~see Workshop pages 6:00pm Missionaries Dinner~Arches 7:00pm Town Hall Meeting~Brighton 8:00pm Nino Reyos Entertainment~Canyons 9:30pm Healing Prayer Service-Rev. Catherine Schuyler/

Dr. Donald Mullen~Canyons

AGENDA ~ continued Locations are noted in italics.

(subject to change)

Monday, June 22 Marketplace/Expo~Bryce & Canyons Lobby: 8:00am-Noon; 1:00pm-5:30pm 6:30am Morning Devotions-Rev. Seth Jones~Sidewinder 6:45am-8:15am Buffet Breakfast~Arches 7:00am State/Regional Moderators Breakfast~Deer Valley 8:30am Business Session 2~Canyons

Nominating Committee-Rev. Richard Miller-Todd Nomination and Election for Nominating Committee The Board of Directors and Leadership Council present: Ratification of actions Introduction of Resolution(s)

12:00pm Lunch~Arches/Deer Valley 1:30pm Speakers~Canyons MMBB-Rev. Dr. Perry J. Hopper

Olivet College-Dr. Steven M. Corey, President Piedmont College-Dr. James F. Mellichamp, President

2:30pm Bible Lecture 2-Dr. Amy Erickson~Canyons 3:30pm Beverage Break [sponsored by MMBB]

~Canyons Lobby 4:30pm Workshops~see Workshop pages 5:30pm Group Dinner~Deer Valley 6:30pm Congregational Foundation Donors’ Reception ~Lodge Lobby 8:00pm Hired Guns Entertainment~Canyons 9:30pm Candlelight Service-Helen Cunningham~Sidewinder

AGENDA ~ continued Locations are noted in italics.

(subject to change)

Tuesday, June 23 Marketplace/Expo~Bryce & Canyons Lobby: 8:00am-Noon; 1:00pm-3:30pm 6:30am Morning Devotions-Rev. Robert Hellam~Sidewinder 6:45am-8:15am Buffet Breakfast~Arches 8:30am Business Session 3~Canyons Credentials Report Vote on Nominations, if needed Vote on Resolutions by the Board of Directors Vote on Resolutions by the Leadership Council

Financial Report-Jeff Dillon Introduction of the 2015/2016 Budget-Jeff Dillon

New Business – discussion and vote, if needed Beverage Break provided by the Sheraton~Canyons Lobby 10:30am Bible Lecture 3-Dr. Amy Erickson~Canyons 11:30am Missionaries Presentation~Canyons 12:00pm Lunch~Arches/Deer Valley 1:45pm Workshops~see Workshop pages 3:00pm Missionaries presentation~Canyons 3:30pm 2016 Annual Meeting & Conference Presentation 4:15pm Business Session 4~Canyons

Final Vote on Budget Installation of New Officers Recognition and Awards

Host Committee Vitality Council Mission/Outreach Council Growth Council Board of Directors Citation 5:30pm Group Dinner~Deer Valley

7:30pm Joy Filled Worship-Rev. Cynthia Bacon Hammer ~Canyons 8:30pm Reception for Dr. Betsey Mauro-all are welcome! ~Canyons Lobby

WORKSHOPS (subject to change)

Each Workshop will be held for one (1) hour. The room location is noted in italics. Please sit in the front if you have difficulty hearing. Saturday; 9:00am-10:00am Leaving a Living Legacy; presented by Dr. Helen Gierke ~Wildcat-[Mezzanine Level] Our memories can help those who come after us understand who we are and perhaps even how and why we are the people we are—if we can reflect on the past in a way that makes it possible to share our hard-earned wisdom. We’ll use group dialogue, personal narratives, and demonstration to focus on the practical skills we have developed, define the spiritual values we have, and articulate the moral/ethical code we want to hand on. [repeated Sunday, session 2] Introduction to the Practice of Contemplative Prayer; presented by Rev. Dr. Michael Chittum, Co-Chair, Host Committee~Sidewinder-[Mezzanine Level] There is a long history in the Christian tradition of the use of Contemplative Prayer in private spiritual practices. In this workshop, you will learn something of the history, theological background, and a “how-to” for Contemplative Prayer. [presented once] Genealogy 101: Getting Started on Your Family Tree; presented by Carol Price, Co-Chair, Host Committee~Sundance Researching your family tree? Participants will learn to use birth, marriage, and death records and will examine how census records can “fill in” their extended families. Basic genealogical record-keeping forms will also be provided to simplify the recording of findings. [presented once] What’s All This Laughter About?; presented by Pastors John Miller and Wendy Van Tassell~Wasatch-[Mezzanine Level] Learn about the tradition of Holy Hilarity or Holy Humor Sunday. John and Wendy will share ideas you can use in your church to spread the dynamic joy of Christ. We’ll even do Laughter Yoga! Just come and have some fun. [repeated Tuesday]

WORKSHOPS ~ continued Sunday; 2:45pm-3:45pm; Session 1 This Workshop will be offered through Tuesday or until project is completed. Hands-On Local Mission Project Workshop; presented by the Host Committee~Solitude Help assemble hygiene kits for thousands of homeless and low- income citizens who receive medical and dental care from the Fourth Street Clinic in Salt Lake City. The On-Line History and Polity Course: Who, Why and How; presented by the Vitality Ministry Council~Sundance What is “The Congregational Way”? Can you tell me? Do our congregations understand what it means to be a Congregationalist? Do pastors from other traditions have a foundation of our heritage to build on? Do CFTS students have a way to become grounded in our history? We will introduce our manual “The Art and Practice of the Congregational Way” and our two-tiered on-line history and polity course--explaining what they are, who can use them, and how to use them. Please join us. [repeated Sunday, session 2]

So ALL May Worship; presented by the Growth Ministry Council and Rev. Dawn Carlson~Powder Mountain Meeting spiritual needs of children and adults can be a daunting task; when striving to include those with developmental and intellectual disabilities, the challenges often increase. First Congregational Church of Terre Haute, Ind., will share its model for a Rejoicing Spirits Ministry, a time of joyous spiritual growth in a “shush-free” environment for children and adults with disabilities. [repeated Sunday, session 2] What kind of an extremist are you?; presented by the Washington Gladden Society and Piedmont College~Brighton Extending the priorities of the Social Gospel into the 1940s, ’50s, and ’60s, Georgia writer and humanitarian Lillian E. Smith engaged people around issues of segregation and isolation. Join us as we explore sensitivities and struggles surrounding race relations and ways to initiate social change in our own spheres of influence. [repeated Sunday, session 2]

WORKSHOPS ~ continued Sunday; 2:45pm-3:45pm; Session 1 ~ continued Salt of the Earth and A Light to the World; presented by the Mission and Outreach Ministry Council~Snowbird We are all called to be “Salt of the Earth.” Learn how your church can be a blessing and be blessed at the same time, and get started on planning a mission trip! Mission trips come in all sizes, shapes, and locations, from far-off lands to your own neighborhood. Everyone possesses gifts that can help others; be inspired to share your blessings! [repeated Monday] Safety at Your Religious Organization; presented by Paul Loftis, Church Mutual Insurance Company~Alta Ensuring building safety can encompass many levels of inspection. Little things that go unchecked have the potential to turn a disaster deadly. This workshop will point out risks and do and don’ts around your worship center. [repeated Sunday, session 2] Stewarding your Church Records; presented by Sari Mauro, Digital Archivist, Congregational Library and Archives~Canyons More than just papers and computer disks, church records hold the shared past, the active present, and the future vision of the covenanted body. Learn to be stewards of your history and managers of your church documents. Sari will help you get started and keep going and will share tips and tricks for preserving your church’s records, both paper and digital. [repeated Sunday, session 2] Sunday; 4:15pm-5:15pm; Session 2 This Workshop will be offered through Tuesday or until project is completed. Hands-On Local Mission Project Workshop; presented by the Host Committee~Solitude Help assemble hygiene kits for thousands of homeless and low- income citizens who receive medical and dental care from the Fourth Street Clinic in Salt Lake City. Safety at Your Religious Organization; presented by Paul Loftis, Church Mutual Insurance Company~Alta Ensuring building safety can encompass many levels of inspection. Little things that go unchecked have the potential to turn a disaster deadly. This workshop will point out risks and do and don’ts around your worship center. [repeated Sunday, session 1]

WORKSHOPS ~ continued Sunday; 4:15pm-5:15pm; Session 2 ~ continued The On-Line History and Polity Course: Who, Why and How; presented by the Vitality Ministry Council~Sundance What is “The Congregational Way”? Can you tell me? Do our congregations understand what it means to be a Congregationalist? Do pastors from other traditions have a foundation of our heritage to build on? Do CFTS students have a way to become grounded in our history? We will introduce our manual “The Art and Practice of the Congregational Way” and our two-tiered on-line history and polity course--explaining what they are, who can use them, and how to use them. Please join us. [repeated Sunday, session 1] What kind of an extremist are you?; presented by the Washington Gladden Society and Piedmont College~ Brighton Extending the priorities of the Social Gospel into the 1940s, ’50s, and ’60s, Georgia writer and humanitarian Lillian E. Smith engaged people around issues of segregation and isolation. Join us as we explore sensitivities and struggles surrounding race relations and ways to initiate social change in our own spheres of influence. [repeated Sunday, session 1] So ALL May Worship; presented by the Growth Ministry Council and Rev. Dawn Carlson~Powder Mountain Meeting spiritual needs of children and adults can be a daunting task; when striving to include those with developmental and intellectual disabilities, the challenges often increase. First Congregational Church of Terre Haute, Ind., will share its model for a Rejoicing Spirits Ministry, a time of joyous spiritual growth in a “shush-free” environment for children and adults with disabilities. [repeated Sunday, session 1] Leaving a Living Legacy; presented by Dr. Helen Gierke ~Snowbird Our memories can help those who come after us understand who we are and perhaps even how and why we are the people we are—if we can reflect on the past in a way that makes it possible to share our hard-earned wisdom. We’ll use group dialogue, personal narratives, and demonstration to focus on the practical skills we have developed, define the spiritual values we have, and articulate the moral/ethical code we want to hand on. [repeated Saturday]

WORKSHOPS ~ continued Sunday; 4:15pm-5:15pm; Session 2 ~ continued Stewarding your Church Records; presented by Sari Mauro, Digital Archivist, Congregational Library and Archives~ Canyons More than just papers and computer disks, church records hold the shared past, the active present, and the future vision of the covenanted body. Learn to be stewards of your history and managers of your church documents. Sari will help you get started and keep going and will share tips and tricks for preserving your church’s records, both paper and digital. [repeated Sunday, session 1] Monday; 4:30pm-5:30pm This Workshop will be offered through Tuesday or until project is completed. Hands-On Local Mission Project Workshop; presented by the Host Committee~Solitude Help assemble hygiene kits for thousands of homeless and low- income citizens who receive medical and dental care from the Fourth Street Clinic in Salt Lake City. Salt of the Earth and A Light to the World; presented by the Mission and Outreach Ministry Council~Snowbird We are all called to be “Salt of the Earth.” Learn how your church can be a blessing and be blessed at the same time, and get started on planning a mission trip! Mission trips come in all sizes, shapes, and locations, from far-off lands to your own neighborhood. Everyone possesses gifts that can help others; be inspired to share your blessings! [repeated Sunday, session 1] Stepping Up to the Plate—The Give and Take of Being a Year Round Delegate; presented by the Vitality Ministry Council and Rev. Mike Fales~Sundance This workshop will provide the “how to,” the “ins and outs,” and the “give and take.” Open to current Year Round Delegates and those interested in learning more. [presented once] Growth Ministry Council Resources for Your Church; presented by Growth Ministry Council Members~Brighton Growth Ministry Council’s task teams create supportive resources for all our churches. Join us for information on Finance and Stewardship; Technology; Worship and Spiritual Development; and Serving Those with Special Needs. Annotated resources lists and “white papers” will be available for attendees to take back and put to work. [repeated Tuesday]

WORKSHOPS ~ continued Monday; 4:30pm-5:30pm ~ continued Establishing a Prison Ministry; presented by Rev. Andrew McHenry~Powder Mountain Presently the U.S. has the largest rate of incarceration in the world. Get empowered for a ministry on this mission field. Learn about security clearance, how to work with jail and prison personnel, inmates’ religious issues and needs, con games to beware of, and follow-up with former inmates after they’re released. [presented once] Managing the Journey To and Through Retirement; presented by Rev. Dr. Perry Hopper, MMBB Financial Services~Alta MMBB Financial Services sees its ministry as a journey helping our members achieve financial security and prepare for retirement. Focus on the fundamentals of advocating for fair and adequate compensation and on the importance of having effective tools for retirement savings. [repeated Tuesday] The World Beyond the Hudson River: The Story of Congregationalism in the West; presented by Dr. Peggy Bendroth, Executive Director, Congregational Library and Archives~Canyons We will survey the spread of Congregationalism across the continent, telling stories of determined “home missionaries” who planted churches from New York to California and examining the challenges they faced and how Congregationalism grew and changed as it took root outside of New England. [repeated Tuesday] Tuesday; 1:45pm-2:45pm This Workshop will be offered through Tuesday or until project is completed. Hands-On Local Mission Project Workshop; presented by the Host Committee~Solitude Help assemble hygiene kits for thousands of homeless and low- income citizens who receive medical and dental care from the Fourth Street Clinic in Salt Lake City. Youth Leaders Roundtable; presented by the Growth Ministry Council, Mark Jurewicz~Snowbird Wondering where to begin planning youth activities and ministry? Gather with like-minded church staff and lay leaders to share ideas, challenges and success stories as we develop and grow young people into leaders of tomorrow. [presented once]

WORKSHOPS ~ continued Tuesday; 1:45pm-2:45pm ~ continued Growth Ministry Council Resources for Your Church; presented by Growth Ministry Council Members~Brighton Growth Ministry Council’s task teams create supportive resources for all our churches. Join us for information on Finance and Stewardship; Technology; Worship and Spiritual Development; and Serving Those with Special Needs. Annotated resources lists and “white papers” will be available for attendees to take back and put to work. [repeated Monday] Managing the Journey To and Through Retirement; presented by Rev. Dr. Perry Hopper, MMBB Financial Services~Alta MMBB Financial Services sees its ministry as a journey helping our members achieve financial security and prepare for retirement. Focus on the fundamentals of advocating for fair and adequate compensation and on the importance of having effective tools for retirement savings. [repeated Monday] Let’s Visit That Church; presented by Jim DeLine ~Powder Mountain NACCC Ministry Council or Board members are encouraged to attend. We will examine the importance of friendly visits to churches near you to bring greetings and answer questions about our dynamic National Association. [presented once] The World Beyond the Hudson River: The Story of Congregationalism in the West; presented by Dr. Peggy Bendroth, Executive Director, Congregational Library and Archives~Canyons We will survey the spread of Congregationalism across the continent, telling stories of determined “home missionaries” who planted churches from New York to California and examining the challenges they faced and how Congregationalism grew and changed as it took root outside of New England. [repeated Monday] What’s All This Laughter About?; presented by Pastors John Miller and Wendy Van Tassell~Sundance Learn about the tradition of Holy Hilarity or Holy Humor Sunday. John and Wendy will share ideas you can use in your church to spread the dynamic joy of Christ. We’ll even do Laughter Yoga! Just come and have some fun. [repeated Saturday]

THANK YOU PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS

Moderator & Chair, Leadership Council: Jim DeLine; Plymouth Congregational Church, Lansing, Michigan Vice-Moderator & Chair, Board of Directors: Laura Hamby; Congregational Church of Soquel, Soquel, California Secretary: Judy Campbell; North Congregational Church, Farmington Hills, Michigan Treasurer: Jeff Dillon; Faith Community Church, Franklin, Wisconsin Bible Lecturer: Dr. Amy Erickson; Assistant Professor of Hebrew Bible, Iliff School of Theology, Denver, Colorado Congregational Lecturer: Rev. Cynthia Bacon Hammer; Heritage Congregational Church, Madison, Wisconsin Host Committee Co-Chair: Carol Price; First Congregational Church, Salt Lake City, Utah Host Committee Co-Chair: Rev. Dr. Michael Chittum; First Congregational Church, Salt Lake City, Utah Parliamentarian: Sherry Glab; Pilgrim Congregational Church, Pomona, California Dean of the Center for Congregational Leadership: Rev. Dr. Betsey Mauro; Olivet Congregational Church, Olivet, Michigan Executive Director: “to be announced” Sunday Worship Preacher: Rev. Dr. Michael Chittum; First Congregational Church, Salt Lake City, Utah 2015 Annual Meeting & Conference Committee Carol Price; First Congregational Church, Salt Lake City, Utah Rev. Dr. Michael Chittum; First Congregational Church, Salt Lake City, Utah Ryan Prendergast (Youth Rep); First Church of Christ, Lynn, Massachusetts Jim DeLine; Plymouth Congregational Church, Lansing, Michigan Laura Hamby; Congregational Church of Soquel, Soquel, California Laura Francisco; First Congregational Church, Burlington, Iowa Lisa Rambo; River Community Church, Houlton, Wisconsin Rev. Wendy Van Tassell; First Congregational Church, Spencer, Iowa Kay Miller-Todd; Berwick Congregational Church, Berwick, Iowa Beth Borland; First Congregational Church, Detroit, Michigan Carrie Dahm; Meeting Planner, NACCC Staff

Parliamentary Procedures Made Simple (sort of)

Handling a Motion 1. A member makes the motion

The member must be recognized by the chair before stating his/her motion.

The motion must be put in writing and given to the chair when stating the motion.

Common form: “I move that…”

2. Another member seconds the motion

It is not necessary to be recognized to second a motion

The name of the seconder is not recorded in the minutes.

Common form: “Second” or “I second the motion.” 3. The chair states the question, i.e. he/she states the exact

question and indicates that it is open to debate.

Common form: “It has been moved and seconded that… Is there discussion?”

4. The members debate the motion

The maker of the motion has the privilege of discussion first.

Each member must be recognized before he/she discusses the motion.

Discussion is strictly limited to the motion on the floor.

All debate is directed to the chair or through the chair to the other members. Members never speak directly to one another.

Every attempt will be made to alternate between pro and con positions on a motion.

Ordinarily, each member may speak only twice on the same motion, and speakers are asked to be short and concise. The organization may adopt other rules that limit debate.

5. The Chair puts the question, i.e., takes the vote.

The affirmative vote is taken first, then the negative.

Common form: “Those in favor of the motion, say aye. “Those opposed to the motion say no.”

Abstentions are not counted.

A majority vote means a majority of those who voted for or against a motion. Members present but not voting are not counted. A majority is more than half.

The chair (in township board meetings) votes along with other board members. In other organizations, the chair can vote only when his/her vote affects the results, i.e., to make or break a tie vote. A tie vote is always a negative vote.

6. The chair announces the results of the vote.

The vote on any motion is not considered final until the chair has done this.

Parliamentary Procedures ~ continued

Amendments General Considerations:

1. Amendments, like main motions, require a second, are

amendable, are debatable, and require a majority vote. 2. An amendment should be stated so that it indicates exactly

what is being done to the main motion. Like the motion, it must be handed to the chair in writing when making the motion.

3. An amendment must always be handled before voting on the motion to which it was applied.

Debating and Voting

Rules of Debate

1. After it is stated by the Chair, every member is entitled to discuss a debatable motion.

2. No member may speak more than twice during the same day to the same question (only once on an appeal) nor longer than ten minutes at one time, without leave of the assembly; and the question granting the leave is decided by a two-thirds vote, without debate.

3. No member can speak a second time to a question if any member who has not spoken to the question desires to speak.

4. Debate may be limited by a two-thirds vote. 5. The member who proposed the motion is entitled to close

debate if he/she has not previously exhausted his 20 minutes, but he/she may not do so until everyone else wishing to speak has spoken. He/She cannot avail himself/herself of this privilege after debate has been closed.

6. The maker of the motion, though he/she can vote against it, cannot speak against his own motion.

7. Debate must be confined to the merits of the immediately pending question.

8. In debate, a member must avoid personalities, referring to “the member who spoke last,” or “the previous speaker,” etc.

9. If a member wishes to ask a question of a previous speaker, he/she must address his/her remarks to the chair, the Chair then asks the speaker the question. All remarks are addressed to the Chair.

The Assembly can close debate or limit the length of speeches and allow each member to speak only once on each question, and take action to end, limit, or extend the limits of debate, by a two-thirds vote.

PURPOSE OF THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION (ARTICLE II. PURPOSE FROM THE ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION)

The purposes of the Association shall be:

To provide a means by which Congregational Christian Churches of this nation may, without in any wise disturbing or altering their present associations and affiliations, consult and advise together as Churches upon matters of common concern to them, both temporal and spiritual;

To provide this closer fellowship and unity in all spiritual matters among Congregational Christian Churches;

To aid, in such ways as may from time to time be appropriate and proper, the continuance and growth of those Christian purposes and practices which have been the historic and accepted characteristics of Congregational Christian Churches.

In case of necessity to do and perform any and all functions ordinarily and customarily performed by Congregational Christian associations.

To promote, carry on and coordinate such cooperative activities among member Churches as to them from time to time may seem wise and expedient.

Upon application therefore by member Churches, to provide for them such assistance, whether financial or through advice and consultation or otherwise, as may be proper and expedient without violating the autonomy of member Churches.

PROPOSED STANDING RULES

Delegate, Alternate, Attendee, or Observer badges must be worn at all general meetings.

To obtain the floor, a person should move to a microphone, be recognized by the presiding officer, and give his/her name and church affiliation before speaking.

No person shall speak in debate more than twice on the same question on the same day, or longer than two minutes each time; nor shall any person be recognized to debate for the second time unless those who have not previously spoken on the question have been recognized.

Motions may be made, seconded and then held for action later in the meeting.

The presiding officer shall require that all motions be in writing, signed by the maker and presented to the recording secretary of the meeting. Note: Marshals shall have required forms available for writing out motions.

All new business, including proposed amendment to the Articles of Association or Bylaws, must be introduced from the floor on Saturday, June 20 and be submitted in writing to the Secretary by 5:00 p.m. Sunday, June 21.

The proceedings of the Annual Meeting shall be governed by the rules in the current edition of “Robert’s Rules of Order” newly revised in all cases to which they are applicable and in which they are not inconsistent with the bylaws of the National Association or these standing rules.

During Business Sessions, Delegates or their appointed voting Alternates are to be seated in the front.

Essential Services of the NACCC Bringing together Congregational Christian Churches for Mutual

care and outreach to the world in the name of Jesus Christ

† Growth Ministry Council ~ Coordinating and advocating for programs and services for Youth,

including the annual NAPF/HOPE conference ~ Facilitating the planting of new NACCC churches ~ Sharing worship and Christian education resources ~ Providing resources for retreat ministry ~ Coordinating Lenten and Advent devotionals ~ Providing resources and guidance to encourage the use of technology

in our churches ~ Recommending various other church resources, including stewardship

and accessibility for people with special needs.

† Mission and Outreach Ministry Council ~ Seeking collaborative opportunities to meet critical national and

international needs through support of and advocacy for Missions

~ Encouraging ecumenical and interfaith dialogue and partnering with other Congregational entities, including our affiliated colleges

~ Supporting dialogue between our state and regional associations and the NACCC

† Vitality Ministry Council ~ Providing training and financial support for new clergy through the

Congregational Foundation for Theological Studies ~ Equipping local church leaders through the Lay Ministry Training

Program ~ Providing resources for Congregational Identity & Practice ~ Coordinating the annual Minister’s Convocation ~ Guiding the Center in its educational and service delivery tasks

† Center for Congregational Leadership ~ Aiding churches and clergy in pastoral searches ~ Teaching the history and polity of our tradition equipping churches in

Congregational governance ~ Hosting educational opportunities on site, at host locations, and via

the internet ~ Providing conflict management and other services with equipped

advisors

† The Congregationalist Magazine ~ Primary communications device for the Association ~ Reference point and place of dialogue about our Congregational

identity ~ Source of news and information about what’s happening in the

NACCC

† Financial Resources ~ Access to the Congregational Investment Trust, for churches seeking

professional management for their endowments ~ Provides Building and Loan funding to local churches seeking to

borrow money for capital projects ~ Access to retirement and insurance products for local church staff,

through our partnership with MMBB

† Administrative Support ~ Coordination of and staff support for our Annual Meeting and

Conference ~ Access to all publications of the NACCC, via our web site and through

mail requests ~ Administrative support for all programs and services of the

Association, through a highly skilled and dedicated staff

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS & GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE NACCC

1) When was the National Association founded?

The National Association of Congregational Christian Churches was formed in 1955 by churches that desired to practice traditional Congregational polity while keeping supportive and cooperative relationships with sister churches.

2) How many churches make up the National Association?

Over 350 in 36 states. 3) Are local churches autonomous (self-governing)?

Yes. The National Association and the state/regional associations have no authority over member churches but seek fellowship for the sharing of common concerns and needs.

4) What are the benefits of NACCC membership?

The benefits are many, as outlined in the section above entitled Essential Services of the NACCC. In addition to those services, the NACCC also provides opportunities to be in fellowship with like-minded Christians of the Congregational Way.

5) When and where is the National Association Annual Meeting

& Conference held?

It is usually held in June and in different cities around the country depending upon invitations from Churches or Associations.

6) Is the ordination of a church’s minister the prerogative of the

local church?

Yes, but participation of the local association or an Ecclesiastical Council of the Vicinage in the ordination process is not only part of our Tradition, but an exercise of responsible fellowship.

7) Who is responsible for ordaining, calling, or dismissing of

local church pastors?

The local Congregational Church is responsible for the calling, ordaining, and dismissing of its entire ministerial staff. If we are contacted for help in that process, our office will put leaders in touch with someone we are confident will be helpful to them. Churches may call clergy from other denominations and associations, though orientation to the Congregational Way is strongly encouraged. The NACCC honors and lists all clergy serving its member Churches.

8) Does the National Association have authority over pastors of

National Association member Churches?

No. Our disclosure protocol, however, helps to provide churches with some important information on clergy screening.

9) Does the National Association, or its agencies, issue

statements on political or social issues?

No. We encourage the local church to determine how and when to respond to the issues that are important to that church. This is in keeping with the Congregational heritage of active participation in the lives of our communities.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ~ continued 10) Does the National Association require per capita

assessments or apportionments of local churches?

No, though member churches are required to make a donation each year to maintain full member status. The amount given annually to support the Shared Ministries Fund (SMF) of the NACCC is a matter that each church decides; much as individuals choose the level of financial support they give their local churches. An annual “Fair Share” guideline of $13 per member is suggested to support the activities of the NACCC on a proportional basis. Many churches contribute beyond their proportional share, and give $15 per member annually (“Fair Share Plus”). To remain an “active member” with full rights and privileges, a church must contribute annually to the SMF at the level that they determine to be responsible.

11) Can a church withdraw its membership from the National

Association without penalty?

Yes, by congregational vote. The only restrictions would come from any financial encumbrance the church may have with the NACCC, such as an outstanding building loan or a grant agreement that requires permanent membership.

12) Does a church have to change its name to belong to the

NACCC?

No. One of the requirements for NACCC membership is that the church must be Congregational in structure and practice, but this need not be reflected in the church’s name. Some of our churches have come from non-Congregational traditions.

13) Can a church be a member of other church organizations?

Yes. Membership in the NACCC is not considered inconsistent with membership in any other Congregational Christian Association or Conference.

14) What is the procedure for joining the National Association?

Once a local congregation has voted to apply for membership in the NACCC, an application form, along with the church constitution and bylaws is submitted for approval to the Membership and Procedures Task Teams of the National Association’s Leadership Council. After the application is approved, the church may be officially voted into membership at the next Annual Meeting & Conference of the National Association. If recommended by the Leadership Council, a church may be granted provisional membership, until it is officially voted upon at the next gathering of the Association.

NACCC-related Websites:

National Association of Congregational Christian Churches: www.naccc.org

Center for Congregational Leadership, Olivet Michigan: www.centerforcongregationalleadership.org

The Congregationalist Magazine: www.congregationalist.org

NOTES

62nd Annual Meeting & Conference June 25-28, 2016

Detroit/Dearborn, Michigan

Hosted by the Southeast Michigan Association of Congregational Churches

61st Annual Meeting & Conference

June 20~23, 2015

Hosted by the First Congregational Church of Salt Lake City

National Association of

Congregational Christian Churches PO Box 288

Oak Creek, WI 53154 (414) 764-1620 or (800) 262-1620

Fax: (414) 764-0319 E-mail: naccc@naccc.org Website: www.naccc.org