Monthly Archives: January 2004

Letter from David - 2004, Spring

Greetings Everybody,
The UCC celebrates the study process of Open and Affirming that has prompted many local churches to reflect upon Christian welcome. Our UCC claim is to be multiracial, multicultural, open and affirming, and accessible to all (A2A). Theological reflection and
action around the meaning of Christian welcome will be an ongoing, local study. The UCCDM […]

Mental Illness Network Expresses Thanks to the Pension Boards

by Bryan Crousore, MIN Editor
The Mental Illness Network and the Disabilities Ministry of the UCC hosted the Rev. Kenneth L. Ulmer of the Pension Boards for a frank, helpful discussion of issues surrounding the Health Benefits Plan. They discussed the disparity of coverage and access for those persons with some brain illness compared to others. […]

What About Our Children and Youth With Disabilities? - Jewel Shuey

Let the little children come to me; do not stop them. - Mark 10:14b
The baptismal covenant calls us to raise up children in the way they should go. A
disability does not excuse our churches from obligations and commitments. The UCC DM established children and youth institute will be multifaceted, including all aspects of
education. It […]

Dell Award at Synod 2003: Bob and Joyce Dell

First Dell Award Given At General Synod

Photo caption accompanying print copy of this article reads: Bob Dell (left) receives congratulations from Bryan Crousore on receiving the first Dell Award.
Bob and Joyce Dell of Sandwich, Illinois, have done more than anyone in the UCC to foster the Mental Illness Network. Their ten-year effort prompted the […]

“Debra” - Merle and Jeannette Blaser

Created by God
Loved by her family
Needs met by a loving staff
In a safe and caring
Living environment
Our daughter
Gives hugs and pinches
Showing her love for family and staff
Will always be a shining light
For those who are recipients
Of her love—
Merle and Jeanette Blaser
From UCC DM Newsletter Archive

Kamp Kaleo Wisdom - Dee Brauninger

Kamp Kaleo is the United Church of Christ Nebraska Conference/the Disciples of Christ Regional Outdoor Ministry Facility in Burwell, Nebraska.
Photo accompanying the print copy of this article reads: Retired veterinarian, Dr. Bob Essig, Honored Layman, Year 2003, UCC Nebraska Conference, companions an Adventures in Community camper at Kamp Kaleo. Standing on the dock, […]

25/10 Years of UCC DM and the MIN

The Journey into Strength
Progression of language
empowerment
openness
spirit of God’s presence
Brainstorming
incarnation
courage
differently able
Cooperation
validation
refusing to give up
justice
pushing hard
humor
imagination
patience
stubborn
freedom
people blessing.
Lexicon of our Future
Continued penetration through representation
interdependence
recognition of giftedness
Full inclusion
seminary certificate in DM
God-aware
respect
accessibility
total health care
children and youth
anticipation
imagination
partnership
communication
Technology
expanding network of people
being served communion first rather than last
Overcoming stigma.
by Dee Brauninger
From UCC DM Newsletter Archive

My Developmental Journey - Bill Switzer

Written by Bill Switzer
Ordained minister and practicing attorney, Bill Switzer is a member of First Central Congregational UCC in Omaha and serves on the UCC Board for Justice and Witness
Ministries.
Barbara and I have two children, Greg and Grant. Before our older son Greg was born, the excitement of Barb’s pregnancy gave way to anxiety […]

Challenge by Norma Mengel

God Is Still Speaking
The Reverend Norma Mengel is newly elected chair of the UCCDM, a UCC Mental Illness Network board member, and a retired UCC pastor living in St. Paul, Minnesota.
God Is Still Speaking . . . General Synod 24 theme of the UCC proclaims loud and clear that God has more work for […]