The Pension Boards-United Church of Christ (PBUCC) is deeply saddened by the ongoing crisis in the Israel-Palestine region, a situation that has caused immeasurable suffering for countless innocent victims of terror. In recent years, several PBUCC leaders have visited the region and witnessed firsthand the pain and hardship experienced by the individuals and communities affected. Our hearts are heavy by the violence that continues to unfold in the land held sacred by the three Abrahamic religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. We mourn the thousands of women, children, and men whose lives have been lost.
Rev. Bruce G. Epperly, PhD
Now thank we all our God,
with heart and hands and voices,
Who wondrous things has done,
in Whom this world rejoices;
Who from our mothers’ arms
has blessed us on our way
With countless gifts of love,
and still is ours today.
Building the resources you need for retirement is important for your future. At the Pension Boards, we understand that access to knowledgeable service representatives and easy-to-use tools are essential to help you manage your savings so you can reach your retirement goals.
Our commitment to providing the best possible customer service is why we have partnered with Fidelity, the new recordkeeping provider for the Lifetime Retirement Income Plan for the UCC.
Rev. Bruce G. Epperly, PhD
Wednesday, October 4 marks the Feast of St. Francis, the patron saint of the environmental movement. During my time as a congregational pastor, I held a Blessing of the Animals on the Sunday afternoon nearest to Francis’ feast day. People brought dogs of all breeds and sizes, cats in pet carriers, and photos of their companion animals to be blessed.
Rev. Bruce G. Epperly, PhD
I don’t know about you, but despite the fact that ministry and congregational life are twelve-month enterprises, every September was a new beginning in the church year for me. Old-school congregations proclaimed the first day of the church year “Rally Day.” Others described the Sunday after Labor Day as “A Day of New Beginnings.” This year, the UCC is inviting people to proclaim “Rejoice in our Welcome” on September 10.