ORUCC Youth Updates: Sunday 4/14 + Service Trip + Confirmation!

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 11, 2024

Hello friends, I opted to send one LONG email with lots of updates instead of multiples this week. There are many exciting things happening for our Youth! 

Please look through to the end so that you don't miss any information relevant to you regarding this Sunday's programming, Confirmation, and Service Trip updates. 

Events Sunday, April 14:
  • No 9:00 a.m. Sunday school programming due to the All-Church Retreat at Daycholah. TRU Function will still practice 10:00-12:00.
  • Older youth participating in the “Amazing Grace (Race)” with First Cong. Church will leave church by 12:45. You should have received an email from Julie Mazer with more details regarding this event if you are participating. 
  • Confirmation class will still be held 3:30-5:30 p.m. 
Service Trip Updates:
  • Please make your final payment toward the service trip either by check or on the website  by 4/15. As a reminder, the initial deposit was $250, and the second payment is also $250, for a total of $500 per youth. If you are not sure how much you have already paid, please contact Julie Wombacher in the office: [email protected]. 
  • Please sign up for the Bratfest fundraiser if you have not done so already! Each youth is expected to contribute 8 hours at Bratfest (either individually, or can be split up between people to equal eight hours). If you are unable to participate, please contribute an additional $80 toward the cost of the trip. 
  • UPDATE: We will have some additional youth and one chaperone joining us from Middleton Community Church (UCC)! Stay tuned for more details about our upcoming collaboration.
  • Save the Date! We will have an important meeting for all youth and chaperones on Memorial day, Monday May 27 from 6:30-8:00. This is a time to go over details of the trip and get to know one another better! 
Grace and peace,
Kate

—

Rev. Kate Mackey
(she/her/hers)
Associate Pastor for Children, Youth, and Families
Orchard Ridge UCC
1501 Gilbert Rd.
Madison, WI 53711
Office: (608) 271-7212 ex. 2030
“If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to one another.” -Mother Teresa 

*Please note: I take Fridays and Saturdays as sabbath days and may not respond immediately to my email during those times. 

No Sunday School/Music Connections 4/14

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 10, 2024

Good Morning, 
This is a friendly reminder that there is no regularly scheduled Children's Programming (including Nursery/Supported Childcare) this Sunday due to the All Church Retreat. Below is the line-up of upcoming events. 
Looking ahead: 
April 21: Children are invited to participate in worship in a creative movement alongside the Bell Choir. More details to come next week! 
April 29: Children's Labyrinth Walk 9 am

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children's Education Coordinator
Children's Music Director

ORUCC Faithful Action for Justice

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 9, 2024

 
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Faithful Action for Justice

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

April 2024

Faithful Action for Justice provides announcements and information from ORUCC’s Justice missions (Care of Creation, Immigration Justice, Heart Room, Racial Justice, Christian Witness and Service, Palestine Justice).

Nobody can do everything. Saying yes to some things requires saying no to others. Our health and obligations limit us. As you read, briefly celebrate and pray for people doing something you will not join. As you feel called, click on links or reach out to a project’s contact person to learn more.

Our justice mission teams provide information on issues that may be controversial, speaking to the congregation but not for the congregation.

In this issue

  • Palestine Justice. Check out our resources
  • Immigration Justice. Report on the trip to the border by Pastor Julia, Ruthanne Landsness’s five weeks at Casa Alitas, and current issues.
  • MOSES. Forming an ORUCC core team, update on prison lockdowns and call for releasing those incarcerated on crimeless revocations, statement from WISDOM Executive Committee calling for ceasefire in Gaza.

Palestine Justice

From the Palestine Justice Mission Team

Thank you for joining us April 7 for a discussion with Usama Nicola.

Want to learn more? Check out our Recommended Resources at https://orucc.org/justice/palestine.

New members are welcome. Contact Tom Beilman or Diane Dulin with any questions.

Immigration Justice News

Our Immigration Justice Team chair, Ruthanne Landsness, returned from 5 weeks in Tucson and Casa Alitas right before Easter. Ruthanne volunteers at Casa Alitas, the immigrant welcome center in Tucson, AZ. She reports on two highlights in particular during her time there.

 

The first highlight was hosting Pastor Julia for a 6-day visit in Tucson. During her stay, Julia engaged in many of the same activities as those of the ORUCC mission trip in 2015, plus some extras. This included distributing clothing to children and families at Casa Alitas, traveling to Nogales, Mexico to greet asylum seekers waiting for permissions to enter the United States, and meetings with UCC Pastors Randy Mayer and Delle McCormick, UCC clergy deeply involved in immigration justice work. Julia’s reflections on her time of “seeing Jesus at the border” are beautifully captured in her Palm Sunday sermon available on the ORUCC website.

 

The second highlight was being involved in advocacy for continued federal funding of Casa Alitas and other humanitarian aid centers at the border. Due to the failure of federal legislative action, federal funding for Casa Alitas was scheduled to terminate on April 1, 2024, forcing the closure of all but one of the Casa Alitas shelters and, even more importantly, prompting the street-release by Border Patrol of at least 1,000 people per day onto the streets of Tucson. This was all amidst vitriolic theatre and harassment from right-wing activists, including our own Wisconsin Representative. Fortunately, after having prepared for a worst-case scenario, President Biden signed an appropriation that grants funding through the end of June 2024. A big sigh of relief all round, coupled with renewed strategies for funding beyond June 2024.

 

Please use the following links for information about the abated funding crisis and a look at immigration policy from the left and from the right.

Link 1 (Wisconsin State Journal article about attacks on groups aiding immigrants at the border, including Casa Alitas)

Link2 (New York Times article about illegal border crossings)

News from MOSES

MOSES is formally affiliated with WISDOM, a statewide social justice organization. As part of the WISDOM network in Wisconsin, MOSES is fully invested in WISDOM’s actions.

ORUCC is Forming a MOSES Core Team

The Racial Justice Mission Team has received brief reports on the goals and activities of MOSES since ORUCC became an official member in 2022.  Last month RJMT agreed to create a MOSES Core Team, which will initially meet quarterly for one hour. We are happy to report that six people have indicated willingness to participate thus far. The team will dig deeper into learning about the work of MOSES. Ultimately, the team will advise active MOSES participants on questions of MOSES advocacy work to provide an ORUCC perspective.

Pam Oliver, as ORUCC’s representative to the MOSES Leadership Board, and Barbie Jackson, who also attends the board meetings, will receive WISDOM training in May about how to support effective Core Teams within our congregation.  They hope this will assist in developing a deeper engagement in this important work within the ORUCC community. Watch for scheduling in future announcements.

MOSES & WISDOM Update on Prison Lockdowns

Last month WISDOM requested all affiliates throughout the state to issue a statement calling for an end to the Prison Lockdowns. In response, MOSES delivered this press release to 34 media outlets in the Dane County area.  It states in part:

“As Governor Evers looks for a new Corrections Secretary, he needs to make clear that the first priority must be to close GBCI and WCI. The Administration has the authority to do this. About 5,000 people in Wisconsin prisons are there because of a crimeless revocation — they broke a rule of supervision or parole, but did not commit a new crime. The Department of Corrections has complete discretion over whether or not such people are sent to prison. Other states have drastically reduced their prison populations just by cutting back on crimeless revocations — even Wisconsin reduced its prison numbers significantly during COVID in this way. There are fewer than 2,000 people imprisoned in GBCI and WCI combined. Just a 40% reduction in crimeless revocations would enable Wisconsin to completely depopulate both of these prisons.”

WISDOM Executive Committee Message Calls for Immediate, Permanent Ceasefire

WISDOM’s Executive Committee issued this statement to all members of its statewide network. It states in part:

“Normally, as the WISDOM Executive Committee we do not get involved in issues of foreign policy, where we have no expertise. Regarding the current enormous loss of life and humanitarian nightmare in Gaza, we feel a need to make an exception. . . In the same way that the decades of unjust treatment of Palestinians cannot justify many of the actions of October 7, the actions of October 7 cannot justify the brutal bombardment and starvation of people in Gaza in the subsequent five months. There must be an immediate and permanent ceasefire.”

Please contact Pam Oliver or Barbie Jackson if you would like to learn more about MOSES.

About our Missions

Interested? Reach out to learn more about our justice teams and projects. Our mission teams welcome your time, talent and energy!

In addition, our Christian Witness and Service ministry connects members to a variety of opportunities to support justice activities (chair:LuAnn Greiner)

Let us love and care for ourselves and each other as we work together for justice and mercy.

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

Worship Resources for Sunday, April 7, 2024

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 6, 2024

Orchard Ridge

United Church of Christ

Sunday Worship Resources

Sunday, April 7, 2024

Second Sunday of Easter

9:00 am – Sunday School for Children

9:00 am – For Adults – Usama Nicola in Alfred Swan Rm (limited space, arrive early)

10:00 am Worship

Sermon: Rev. Kate Mackey

Lay Liturgist: Rayelle Berola

Music: Bruce Gladstone & Vicki Nonn

3:30 pm Confirmation-Lower Level

Click here for at-home bulletin

Join our Worship virtually

on YouTube any time after 10 am:

YouTube Link

You will need to refresh the page

after 10 am if you have opened it before

For Children & Youth – April 7th

Children

8:30 Supported Childcare: Jade will be available to assist families with young children in The Crossroads. 

Sunday School starts at 9 am. PreK-1st grade children are invited to sing with Julie in the Johnson room from 9:00-9:15. After the music, Jill and Josie will guide the children in the Easter story, “Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene.”

The 2-5 grade classroom will revisit the symbols and lessons from their Lenten lessons and add the symbol of light. This week, the children will learn about how Jesus’ light continues to shine in each of us after his resurrection. Stations will include several art opportunities. We’ll close in a quiet meditation. Joanna and Jadyn will guide the children in their learning in the Bridges Room. 

Music Connections resumes during worship this week for children 2nd-6th grade.

Save some time before or after church to experience a “Story Walk” (Weather Permitting). On the south side of the parking lot, you’ll find the book, “Butterfly Child,” by Marc Majewski. Walk along and read this lovely book that, “delivers a gorgeously painted, tender story about a young child who loves dressing up as a butterfly. A joyful celebration of creativity, self-expression, and family. A young child loves the spots and patterns found on butterflies, and fashions bold orange wings to become a butterfly child. But when other kids shun the child for the clothes they don’t understand, it takes a father’s encouragement for the kid to stay true to what they love and find joy in the butterfly wings once more.” This book will complement the butterfly coloring experience that Pastor Kate set up in Friendship Hall for Eastertide. 

Youth

9:00 a.m. Susan and Kristin will be with our youth for Sunday school, looking at “echoes” of the creation story in the Psalms. TRU Function practices from 10:00-12:00. 

Confirmation students will return at 3:30 for Confirmation class! Please bring your journal and any completed “invitations” you might have done over the past few weeks.

Adult Faith Formation

9:00 a.m.

A Palestinian friend of ORUCC members Tom Beilman and Diane Dulin, Usama Nicola, will offer a presentation on Palestinian justice. Usama is a tour guide extraordinaire and co-runs an organization — Wi’am: The Palestine Transformataion Center — that helps Palestinian children and youths cope with the trauma of occupation. He is a deeply committed Christian living in Bethlehem just a couple of blocks from the Church of the Nativity. Tom and Diane have met Usama several times, benefiting greatly from his insights as a tour guide and even staying at his home. 

Attendees at this presentation will hear firsthand from Usama about the many obstacles he and his family face in the West Bank as they try to live their daily lives. 

Usama will be joining us from Palestine over Zoom in the Alfred Swan Room, and we are setting a cap of 30 people. Therefore, the first 28 people to arrive will have a seat. You may want to arrive early!

April COMPASSION OFFERING

One Great Hour of Sharing

Share the Light!

For 75 years One Great Hour of Sharing has provided an ecumenical response to disaster relief, refugee resettlement and community development around the world. The United Church of Christ joins multiple other denominations [including Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Presbyterian Church (USA), American Baptist, African American Episcopal, Church of the Brethren, and more] to express God’s love through water programs, agricultural assistance, infrastructure improvement and emergency shelter.  

Our One Great Hour of Sharing Compassion Offering for April provides rebuilding and grass roots assistance in today’s challenging world.  Please give as you are able to address the effects of war, climate-imposed migration, natural disasters, chronic poverty and oppressive political structures.  Working with local partners and ecumenical networks, One Great Hour of Sharing can be trusted to bring timely, just and effective programs where they are needed most. 

 VIDEO

 Thank you for giving generously

You can make a donation by check, on the memo line, please write “compassion” and mail to ORUCC, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711, or donate online from our website. 

The link is https://orucc.org/contribute/support/

Office Manager Julie Wombacher

Mon.-Thurs. 8:30am -12:00 pm

608-271-7212 or EMAIL

Senior Pastor: Rev. Dr. Julia Burkey

EMAIL

Associate Pastor: Rev. Kate Mackey EMAIL

Associate Pastor: Rev. Ken Pennings

EMAIL

Children’s Education Coordinator & Music Director: Julie Mazer EMAIL



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JOIN our Private FB Group:

“Members & Friends of Orchard Ridge UCC“

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Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

ORUCC -Sunday, Apr. 7, 9 am – Usama Nicola on Palestinian Justice

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 5, 2024

 

ORUCC invites you!

Sunday, April 7, 9 am

Alfred Swan Room
 

A Palestinian friend of ORUCC members Tom Beilman and Diane Dulin, Usama Nicola, will offer a presentation on Palestinian justice. Usama is a tour guide extraordinaire and co-runs an organization — Wi’am: The Palestine Transformataion Center — that helps Palestinian children and youths cope with the trauma of occupation. He is a deeply committed Christian living in Bethlehem just a couple of blocks from the Church of the Nativity. Tom and Diane have met Usama several times, benefiting greatly from his insights as a tour guide and even staying at his home. 

Attendees at this presentation will hear firsthand from Usama about the many obstacles he and his family face in the West Bank as they try to live their daily lives. 

Usama will be joining us from Palestine over Zoom in the Alfred Swan Room, and we are setting a cap of 30 people. Therefore, the first 28 people to arrive will have a seat. You may want to arrive early!
Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

ORUCC Youth April 7: All Youth & Confirmation Programming

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 4, 2024

Hello friends!
After a couple weeks of spring break, we are set to be back in action this Sunday, April 7. I hope you all had time for rest and renewal over break.

Today is the last day to sign up for the All-Church Retreat at Daycholah Center next weekend, April 12-14! There are scholarships available if that would be helpful for your family.

9:00 a.m. Susan and Kristin will be with our youth for Sunday school, looking at “echoes” of the creation story in the Psalms. TRU Function practices from 10:00-12:00. 
Confirmation students will return at 3:30 for Confirmation class! Please bring your journal and any completed “invitations” you might have done over the past few weeks. I am attaching a Worship note form in case anyone needs it again and would like to do one this Sunday 🙂
For youth attending the service trip: your final payment is due April 15. Please drop off a check or visit our website to make a payment. 
Grace and peace,
Kate

—

Rev. Kate Mackey
(she/her/hers)
Associate Pastor for Children, Youth, and Families
Orchard Ridge UCC
1501 Gilbert Rd.
Madison, WI 53711
Office: (608) 271-7212 ex. 2030
“If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to one another.” -Mother Teresa 

*Please note: I take Fridays and Saturdays as sabbath days and may not respond immediately to my email during those times. 
doc icon Confirmation-Worship-Notes.docx

ORUCC Weekly Announcements for April 4

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 4, 2024

Orchard Ridge

United Church of Christ

Weekly Announcements

Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice

Week at a Glance April 4



Friday, April 5

8:30 am Breakfast Group-Dennys

6:00 pm Family Game Night-Friendship Hall

7:00 pm Movie Group-Oakwood Village

Sunday, April 7

9:00 am – Sunday School for Children

9:00 am – For Adults – Usama Nicola in Alfred Swan Rm (limited space, arrive early)

10:00 am Worship

Sermon: Rev. Kate Mackey

Lay Liturgist: Rayelle Berola

Music: Bruce Gladstone & Vicki Nonn

3:30 pm Confirmation-Lower Level

Men’s Group

Monday, April 8

7:15 – 8:30 pm

Reading the Bible

Seriously but not Literally

Tuesday, April 9 (cancelled)

Start date delayed until April 16

10-11:30 am

David Anderman

Ministry of Adult Faith Formation

Tuesday, April 9

4:00 – 5:30 pm

Zoom

Leslie Linser

Leadership Team

Tuesday, April 9

6:00 -7:30 pm

Zoom

Deanna Blanchard

Palestinian Justice Mission Team

Tuesday, April 9

7:00 – 8:30 pm

Alfred Swan Room

Tom Beilman

Lunch & Learn

Wednesday, April 10

11:30 am

Friendship Hall

Steve Sheets

Ministry of Resources

Wednesday, April 10

6:00 – 7:30 pm

Zoom

Jon Blanchard

Choir Practice

Wednesday, April 10

7:00 – 8:30 pm

Church

New Members Welcome

Meditation Group

Thursday, April 11

8:00 – 9:00 am

Oscar Romero Room

Becky Baumbach

Racial Justice Mission Team

Thursday, April 11

9:00 – 10:30 am

Pam Oliver

Zoom

Meditation Group

Friday, April 12

9:30 – 10:30 am

Sue Dixon

Zoom

All Church Retreat

Friday, April 12-14

April COMPASSION OFFERING

One Great Hour of Sharing

Share the Light!

For 75 years One Great Hour of Sharing has provided an ecumenical response to disaster relief, refugee resettlement and community development around the world. The United Church of Christ joins multiple other denominations [including Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Presbyterian Church (USA), American Baptist, African American Episcopal, Church of the Brethren, and more] to express God’s love through water programs, agricultural assistance, infrastructure improvement and emergency shelter.  

Our One Great Hour of Sharing Compassion Offering for April provides rebuilding and grass roots assistance in today’s challenging world.  Please give as you are able to address the effects of war, climate-imposed migration, natural disasters, chronic poverty and oppressive political structures.  Working with local partners and ecumenical networks, One Great Hour of Sharing can be trusted to bring timely, just and effective programs where they are needed most. 

 VIDEO

 Thank you for giving generously

You can make a donation by check, on the memo line, please write “compassion” and mail to ORUCC, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711,

or donate online from our website. 

The link is https://orucc.org/contribute/support/

Friday Breakfast Group – April 5

 

The next Friday Breakfast is set for April 5 at 8:30 am at Denny’s, 433 S. Gammon Road. All are welcome! The group meets on the first Friday of the month and includes both men and women. Join us for this informal chance to connect and converse on many topics. Contact Louise Jeanne, Link for more information

From the Ministry of Christian Witness & Service:

 

Our ORUCC congregation has supported JustDane for many years and it is the recipient of our compassion offering for the month of March. JustDane is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a fundraising event on Thursday, April 11th. We encourage you to attend! Below is a link where you can learn more about this event and purchase tickets ($50). If you would like to connect with other ORUCC members who will also be in attendance, email LuAnn Greiner at [email protected]

 

JustDane’s 50th Anniversary Celebration: Thursday, April 11th from 6pm-8:30pm at Madison College Mitby Theater with live jazz and a presentation by Fr. Gregory Boyle and homeboys from Homeboy Industries. Purchase tickets by April 5th.

JustDane 50th Anniversary Celebration, feat. Father Boyle of Homeboy Ind. Tickets, Thu, Apr 11, 2024 at 6:00 PM | Eventbrite

 

Friday Breakfast Group – April 5

 

The next Friday Breakfast is set for April 5 at 8:30 am at Denny’s, 433 S. Gammon Road. All are welcome! The group meets on the first Friday of the month and includes both men and women. Join us for this informal chance to connect and converse on many topics. Contact Louise Jeanne, Link for more information.

 

Friday, April 5, 7:00 pm is Movie Group Night

Watch “The Burial” and discuss the Film

Oakwood Village Performing Arts Center



The Burial is a riveting court drama. The 2023 American legal drama film directed by Maggie Betts and written by Betts and Doug Wright. The Burial is a riveting court drama based on the story of Jerry O’Keefe, who decides to take on a large funeral company and hires attorney Willie E. Gary to help him. Jerry and Willie remained friends well after the trial was over. Jamie Foxx is Willie E. Gary, Tommy Lee Jones is Jeremiah O’Keefe.



Join us at 7 p.m. on the 5th and enjoy the discussion 

Help with Dinner for The Crossing Campus Ministry

It’s our turn to bring dinner to college students at The Crossing, our campus ministry, on Wednesday, April 10. We’re making a nacho/taco bar! You can help by bringing groceries to church on Sunday, April 7, or cooking, serving, and/or cleaning up on Wednesday, April 10.  Sign up here. Contact LuAnn Greiner ([email protected]) or Julie Horst ([email protected]) with any questions.

Lunch and Learn

April 10th, 11:30

 

Our very own ORUCC member, Bev Davis, will share her insights on Bullying.  “What you may not know about bullying, learning to believe in yourself can be a lifetime struggle.” This presentation will be enlightening, inspirational.  Bev Davis is an Award-Winning Author, Chaplain/Pastor, Speaker. 

 

Bev is the author of four books, holds a Master of Divinity degree from McCormick Theological Seminary, Chicago and is also a Certified Dementia Practitioner (NCCDP). She has spoken to audiences throughout Wisconsin and the Midwest. She understands anti-bullying from knowing the subject first-hand from being bullied as a young person growing up in Chicago. 

 

Join us of Lunch and Learn, Wednesday, April 10th at 11:30.  We dine at 11:45 from a wonderful buffet.  $10 per person. The program begins at 12:30. Please RSVP  Steve Sheets, [email protected] . 

Confirmation 2024

Confirmation will be offered this spring for all youth in 7th-9th grade who have not yet been confirmed. This is a special time in the life of our young people where they will be invited to explore their own faith, and learn and grow together! Classes will resume on April 7th, 3:30-5:30 p.m., with Confirmation Sunday on Pentecost, May 20th.

For Holy Week, Youth are invited to do a bit of at-home studying using this document, which incudes a podcast to listen to and some reflection questions. Any adults who would like to join in the study are welcome to check it out!

Balance Exercise Class

 

Just a reminder that the exercise class will meet at 9:30 instead of 10 on Tuesdays, to attend David Anderman’s class “Reading the Bible Seriously but not Literally”.

We will concentrate on balance and posture exercises on Tuesday for about 1/2 hour. We will continue the balance activities with additional strengthening exercises on Thursday mornings at 10:00 through April 18.

 

Even if you have not attended classes in the past few months you can attend this class to learn a routine to improve balance and reduce risk for falls. Email

Joyce Pohl at [email protected] if you are interested or have questions. A small donation to the Heart Room is encouraged for those who attend classes. 

Reading the Bible

Seriously But Not Literally

Tuesday mornings 10-11:30 am

in the Alfred Swan Room

(Zoom if there is interest)

April 16 – May 21 (8 sessions)

Led by David Anderman

Our text will be The Emancipation of God: Postmarks on Cultural Prophesy by Walter Brueggemann, a world-renowned UCC Old Testament/Hebrew Scriptures scholar. The book is a collection of recent short essays which originated as blog posts; they are readable and largely non-technical essays intended for the mythological ‘person-in-the-pew.’ The book is available on short notice from Amazon. Most local bookstores could order it but I would be surprised if any have it in stock. List price is $28.00. Good theology doesn’t come cheap. Neither does bad theology, for that matter.

Our first session(s) will look at the passages traditionally quoted by those opposing LGBTQ+ affirming theologies. Brueggemann sets them alongside the much more numerous passages of welcoming neighbors and of offering hospitality to strangers. This specific issue will open up broader consideration of the nature of Biblical interpretations. Other topics will include exploring what it means to be a Biblically-informed and -directed church in a capitalist empire that co-opts religious institutions and faith; and how a ‘declining’ church can offer hope to a discouraged and down-hearted, sometimes cruel culture.

Through these examples, we will learn ways of taking the Bible seriously but not literally. Two secondary texts will also be referred to. I have just started reading Reading Genesis by Marilyn Robinson, another well-known and UCC author. Fascinating passages about her reading of the book of Genesis. I will also refer to the essay The Symbol Gives Rise to Thought by Paul Ricoeur, a French philosopher who self-identified as a Reformed Christian.

Please email me if you are planning on coming, or have questions.

David Anderman, [email protected]

We would love to have you at the all-ages, rescheduled All Church Retreat in April at Daycholah Center!

If you’d like to join for the whole weekend, the cost is $200 for adults (12+) and $140 for children (6-11, children under 5 are free). This includes lodging for two nights, dinner Friday night, three meals Saturday and one meal Sunday morning. The church is able to supplement part of the weekend financially from our budget, which is already reflected in the cost.

 

We have partial and full scholarships available, so please reach out to us if financial help would make this more accessible for your family, or if you’d like to pay extra to sponsor someone anonymously.

Register here and please pay registration fees on the church website.

 

Here are some FAQ for our retreat:

Who are our retreat leaders? And what are we doing?

Pastor Kate & Pastor Julia are coordinating a wonderful time with games, fun, and wandering the grounds in between thoughtful programming, delicious meals and plenty of down time to read and relax.

Our Saturday morning retreat leader is The Rev. Kirsten Worzala-Dumke, Chaplain at UW Carbonne Cancer Center and former pastor of Parroquia Santa Maria (a Spanish-language congregation associated with Luther Memorial Church ELCA). Kirsten is also a trusted friend of Pastor Kate.

After some free time, Saturday afternoon will include Wild Church with Pastor Julia’s spouse Daniel Cooperrider around the fire.

Leslie Linser will offer an opportunity for all-abilities Yoga on Saturday evening.

Sunday morning will close with worship facilitated by Pastor Kate & Pastor Julia.

Will this be super fun? Yes definitely!

What is the sleeping situation? If you have specific questions reach out to our wonderful Daycholah coordinator Kaitlyn: [email protected]

Some rooms are private and some are shared, and if you’d like to request a private room please reach out. The facilities have twin size mattresses and you will need to bring bedding.

If I do register, what should I bring?

Sleeping bag or warm blanket & sheets and pillows for a twin size bed.

Towels and toiletries.

Warm outdoor clothes and rain boots.

Cozy indoor clothes and indoor shoes.

Is Daycholah accessible? Yes! They have accessible rooms as well and an elevator in the dining hall building. They also have a golf cart that could be used for traversing Daycholah.

 

While is no way we could say there are no trip or fall hazards, Daycholah staff will do everything they can to assist with any guest needs. If there are specific requests, please know we will do our very best to accommodate.

For other questions related to the facilities, meals, and lodging, contact Kaitlyn: [email protected]

 

Here are the registration links again:

REGISTRATION FORM

PAYMENT SITE

 

We cannot wait to share time with you in the New Year!

 

Julia & Kate

Meet Palestinian Christian Usama Nicola

Sunday, April 7, 9:00-9:50 am, Alfred Swan Room

Arrive early. Seating for 28!

Click here to join by Zoom, or paste the following into your browser:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83649436657?pwd=R2hVU0drV1N2VTZlMVJoRmI4K2VtUT09

 

ORUCC’s Palestine Justice Mission Team invites you to join us for a Zoom interview direct from Bethlehem with Usama Nicola. Nicola (pictured above) is a tour guide extraordinaire and he co-leads an organization that helps Palestinian children and youth cope with the trauma of occupation. Come and learn about the many obstacles that families in the West Bank face as they try to live their daily lives. See and appreciate Usama’s steadfast determination (Arabic: sumud) to persevere in the face of such obstacles.

Mark your Calendars for an in person presentation by Diane Diane Dulin on Sunday April 21

 

Diane Dulin will report on her trip to Palestine and Washington, D.C.

 

Report from the Stones Cry Out solidarity delegation 

Sunday, April 21, 11:15am-12:30pm, Friendship Hall 

Click here to join by Zoom, or paste the following into your browser:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83649436657?pwd=R2hVU0drV1N2VTZlMVJoRmI4K2VtUT09

For ten days in February-March, ORUCC member Diane Dulin participated in the Stones Cry Out solidarity delegation to the occupied West Bank of Palestine and Washington, D.C. Organized by the Indiana Center for Middle East Peace and sponsored by eight nationally recognized advocacy groups, this delegation of 23 American Christian leaders met with Palestinian religious and civil society leaders, community leaders and everyday residents — Christians, Muslims and Jews — at such varied places as churches, nonprofits and NGOs, a refugee camp, a privately owned farm, and public places such as the Apartheid Wall and Nelson Mandela Square in Ramallah. Diane will share with us the clear and consistent messages that delegates received and brought back to their elected officials in Washington, D.C., and are now sharing across US denominations. 

Spiritual

Nourishment

for you!

Jeanne’s reflections will resume on April 11.

 

By Zoom on Thursdays: 04:00 PM Central Time

    

   

    Apr 18, 2024 04:00 PM

    May 16, 2024 04:00 PM

Click here to join Zoom meeting



us02web.zoom.us/j/87998025473?pwd=dEEzcFkvSnBNdzNUaE5BK2RxUDZqZz09

Meeting ID: 879 9802 5473

Passcode: 573548

Dial in

1 312 626 6799 US 

There is a new campaign to raise $200,000 to rebuild and strengthen the 17 lakeside cabins at Moon Beach, a place that has been a source of renewal for so many of us over the years.  Here’s a little more background from the folks at Moon Beach:

“The foundations, crafted decades ago with cinder blocks, stumps, and pine posts now require restoration to ensure their longevity and stability against the elements. By repairing and restoring the foundations with a firm footing for the footprint and base of the cabins, we can ensure their stability and compliance with regulatory standards, allowing us to maintain them for generations to come.”

With a matching grant already announced, the goal is to raise $100,000 that would then net the campaign $200,000. For those of us at ORUCC who love Moon Beach and who have the ability to give, thank you for your consideration.  Click here to donate.

Sign Up Now Through the End of June 2024!

AT ORUCC, the Members are the Ministers!

We are seeking volunteers to serve on Sunday mornings for in-person worship. You need not be a member, simply a person who loves ORUCC and is eager to find a place to serve!

Young people are welcome to sign up too!

Would you consider serving one or more times as

a Coffee Maker, a Welcomer, a Lay Liturgist or

to assist with Holy Communion?

Feel free to sign up as an individual, a couple, or a family!

Click here to sign up as a Coffee Maker

Click here to sign up as a Welcomer

Click here to sign up as a Lay Liturgist

Click here to assist with Holy Communion

After selecting one or more dates, you will need to click “Submit and Sign Up” at the bottom of the page, then enter your name & email address, then click “Sign Up Now.”

Questions or problems signing up?

Contact Ken Pennings at [email protected] or 608-556-2371.

Office Manager Julie Wombacher

available Mon.-Thurs. 8:30am -12:00 pm

by appointment

608-271-7212 or EMAIL

Senior Pastor Julia Burkey available

Tues.- Fri. & Sun. 9:00 am – 7:00 pm

by appointment

518-542-6915 EMAIL

Associate Pastor Ken Pennings: available

Tues.-Thurs. 10:00 am -5:00 pm 

by appointment

608-556-2371 EMAIL

Associate Pastor Kate Mackey: available

Mon.-Thurs. 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

by appointment

608-358-6143 EMAIL

Julia and Ken (try to) take Monday & Saturday as Sabbath days,

Kate Friday and Saturday

Friday is observed as a writing day for the preaching pastor.

In case of a pastoral emergency, please call any of the pastors, as all pastors are available by phone, text and we will always have a pastor on call who we can turn to.

LIKE or FOLLOW the Orchard Ridge FaceBook Page

JOIN our Private FB Group:

“Members & Friends of Orchard Ridge UCC“

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

1501 Gilbert Road

Madison, WI 53711

608-271-7212

Office Hours: M-Th 8:30-12:30
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Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

4/7 Sunday School and Story Walk Invitation

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 3, 2024

8:30 Supported Childcare: Jade will be available to assist families with young children in The Crossroads.  

Sunday School starts at 9 am. PreK-1st grade children are invited to sing with Julie in the Johnson room from 9:00-9:15. After the music, Jill and Josie will guide the children in the Easter story, “Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene.”

The 2-5 grade classroom will revisit the symbols and lessons from their Lenten lessons and add the symbol of light.  This week, the children will learn about how Jesus' light continues to shine in each of us after his resurrection. Stations will include several art opportunities. We'll close in a quiet meditation. Joanna and Jadyn will guide the children in their learning in the Bridges Room. 
Save some time before or after church to experience a “Story Walk” (Weather Permitting). On the south side of the parking lot, you'll find the book, “Butterfly Child,” by Marc Majewski. Walk along and read this lovely book that, “delivers a gorgeously painted, tender story about a young child who loves dressing up as a butterfly. A joyful celebration of creativity, self-expression, and family. A young child loves the spots and patterns found on butterflies, and fashions bold orange wings to become a butterfly child. But when other kids shun the child for the clothes they don’t understand, it takes a father’s encouragement for the kid to stay true to what they love and find joy in the butterfly wings once more.” This book will complement the butterfly coloring experience that Pastor Kate set up in Friendship Hall for Eastertide. 
Looking ahead: 
April 5: Family Game Night
April 12-14: All Church Retreat, No children's programming. 
April 21: Children are invited to participate in worship in a creative movement alongside the Bell Choir. More details to come! 
April 29: Children's Labyrinth Walk 9 am

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children's Education Coordinator
Children's Music Director

ORUCC Spring Adult Ed Opportunities

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 2, 2024

 

ORUCC Adult Education Opportunities

Spring 2024

April 7th 9:00 am A Palestinian friend of ORUCC members Tom Beilman and Diane Dulin, Usama Nicola, will offer a presentation on Palestinian justice. Usama is a tour guide extraordinaire and co-runs an organization — Wi’am: The Palestine Transformataion Center — that helps Palestinian children and youths cope with the trauma of occupation. He is a deeply committed Christian living in Bethlehem just a couple of blocks from the Church of the Nativity. Tom and Diane have met Usama several times, benefiting greatly from his insights as a tour guide and even staying at his home. 

Attendees at this presentation will hear firsthand from Usama about the many obstacles he and his family face in the West Bank as they try to live their daily lives. 

Usama will be joining us from Palestine over Zoom in the Alfred Swan Room, and we are setting a cap of 30 people. Therefore, the first 28 people to arrive will have a seat. You may want to arrive early!

On April 21st at 9:00 am we will welcome Shedd Farley from The Farley Center to talk about Green Burials. All are welcome to learn about this new and ancient way of returning our body to the regenerative cycles of the earth.

April 21st at 11:15 am Diane Dulin presents and shares on her time in Palestine.

On April 28th at 9:00 am before church we will welcome Johnna Georgia from the Wisconsin Council of Churches to give a presentation about the innovative program of Awaken Dane. We want to know as a church- would we like to participate in Awaken Dane? Watch this video to get an idea of what the program offers. We have been saying that “justice moves at the pace of relationships, and this would be a great way to form relationships with our neighbors of faith doing good work in Dane Country. Do you feel a call to participate? Come and see!

On April 28th at 11:00 am following worship, the pastors will host a conversation about what we as a congregation think we might need during this upcoming contentious election cycle. As we plan fall programming and spiritual opportunities, we would love to hear from you. What does your soul need?

Reading the Bible Seriously

But Not Literally

Tuesday mornings 10-11:30 am

in the Alfred Swan Room

(Zoom if there is interest)

April 2 – May 21 (8 sessions)

Led by David Anderman

Our text will be The Emancipation of God: Postmarks on Cultural

Prophesy by Walter Brueggemann, a world-renowned UCC Old

Testament/Hebrew Scriptures scholar. The book is a collection of recent short

essays which originated as blog posts; they are readable and largely non-

technical essays intended for the mythological ‘person-in-the-pew.’

The book is available on short notice from Amazon. Most local

bookstores could order it but I would be surprised if any have it in stock. List

price is $28.00. Good theology doesn’t come cheap. Neither does bad

theology, for that matter.

Our first session(s) will look at the passages traditionally quoted by

those opposing LGBTQ+ affirming theologies. Brueggemann sets them

alongside the much more numerous passages of welcoming neighbors and of

offering hospitality to strangers. This specific issue will open up broader

consideration of the nature of Biblical interpretations.

Other topics will include exploring what it means to be a Biblically-

informed and -directed church in a capitalist empire that co-opts religious

institutions and faith; and how a ‘declining’ church can offer hope to a

discouraged and down-hearted, sometimes cruel culture.

Through these examples, we will learn ways of taking the Bible

seriously but not literally.

Two secondary texts will also be referred to. I have just started

reading Reading Genesis by Marilyn Robinson, another well-known and

UCC author. Fascinating passages about her reading of the book of Genesis.

I will also refer to the essay “The Symbol Gives Rise to Thought” by Paul

Ricoeur, a French philosopher who self-identified as a Reformed Christian.

Please let me know if you are interested or have questions.

David Anderman [email protected]

All Church Retreat!

We would love to have you at the all-ages, rescheduled All Church Retreat April 12-14 at Daycholah Center! Please consider joining us- the deadline is April 4th for registering.

Pastor Kate & Pastor Julia are coordinating a wonderful time with games, fun, and wandering the grounds in between thoughtful programming, delicious meals and plenty of down time to read and relax.

Our Saturday morning retreat leader is The Rev. Kirsten Worzala-Dumke, Chaplain at UW Carbonne Cancer Center and former pastor of Parroquia Santa Maria (a Spanish-language congregation associated with Luther Memorial Church ELCA). Kirsten is also a trusted friend of Pastor Kate.

After some free time, Saturday afternoon will include Wild Church with Pastor Julia’s spouse Daniel Cooperrider around the fire.

Leslie Linser will offer an opportunity for all-abilities Yoga on Saturday evening.

Sunday morning will close with worship facilitated by Pastor Kate & Pastor Julia.

Here are the registration links again:

REGISTRATION FORM

PAYMENT SITE

 

We cannot wait to share time with you in the April!

 

Julia & Kate
 
 

Wayfinding & Lunch & Learn

Lunch and Learn, Wednesday, April 10th, 11:30 am

ORUCC Member Rev. Bev Davis will share about bullying

 

Wayfinding, the Soul Tasks of Aging, April 17 9:45-11:15 am in person and April 18 virtual 4pm. Join for this month’s theme of Wayfinding theme inspired by the resurrection of Jesus of suspending our disbelief and engaging in wondering and hope about the forces of life-renewing, eternal life and the afterlife.

Lunch and Learn, Wednesday, May 8th, 11:30 am, UW Professor Troy Reeves, “The Importance of Story Telling.”

 
 

Java & Jesus 9am

April 14, 9 am: Java & Jesus – Peg Knueve facilitating

May 5, 9 am: Java & Jesus – Jeanne Moberly facilitating

Work and Worship Sunday and lunch provided by congregational life!

May 12, 9 am: Java & Jesus – Jim McNamara facilitating

Mother’s Day!

May 19, 9 am: Java & Jesus – Dan Rossmiller facilitating

Confirmation Sunday!

May 26, 9 am: Java & Jesus – Mary Neuhaus facilitating

Memorial Day Weekend

Java & Jesus takes a hiatus for the summertime!
 
 
 
 
Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

April Compassion Offering: One Great Hour of Sharing

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 1, 2024

One Great Hour of Sharing – Share the Light

For 75 years One Great Hour of Sharing has provided an ecumenical response to disaster relief, refugee resettlement and community development around the world. The United Church of Christ joins multiple other denominations including Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Presbyterian Church (USA), American Baptist, African American Episcopal, Church of the Brethren, and more to express God’s love through water programs, agricultural assistance, infrastructure improvement and emergency shelter.  

Our One Great Hour of Sharing Compassion Offering for April provides rebuilding and grass roots assistance in today’s challenging world.  Please give as you are able to address the effects of war, climate-imposed migration, natural disasters, chronic poverty and oppressive political structures.  Working with local partners and ecumenical networks, One Great Hour of Sharing can be trusted to bring timely, just and effective programs where they are needed most. 

You Tube Video: https://youtu.be/mUfL_13xDWA

ORUCC Easter Worship Resources for Sunday, March 31st, 2024

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 30, 2024

Orchard Ridge

United Church of Christ

Sunday Worship Resources

Sunday, March 31, 2024

Easter Sunday

6:30am Sunrise Easter Service on church lawn

followed by brunch in Friendship Hall

10:00 am Worship

Sermon: Rev. Dr. Julia Burkey

“Becoming Midwives of the Resurrection”

Lay Liturgist: Diane Jungblut

Music: ORUCC Choir

There will be a coloring activity with parents for children

& youth in Friendship Hall on Easter

Worship is followed by outdoor Easter Egg Hunt!

Click here for at-home bulletin

Join our Worship virtually

on YouTube any time after 10 am:

YouTube Link

You will need to refresh the page

after 10 am if you have opened it before

For Children & Youth – March 31st

Children

9:00am Nursery Care: Join Al Blanchard & Jennifer Whitacre who are ready to care for your little ones in the nursery.

March 31 Easter: (no regular Sunday school; no Music Connections)

   6:30 a.m. Sunrise service, followed by brunch

  10:00 a.m. Easter Worship, followed by egg hunt

Youth

On Easter Sunday 3/31, there are several opportunities:

  • 6:30 a.m. Sunrise Service
  • Brunch (immediately following sunrise service)
  • 10:00 a.m. Easter Worship
  • Kids’ Easter Egg Hunt (immediately following worship service)

For those who are away on Spring Break, safe travels! 

Some fun things coming up:

  • Our All-Church retreat is, April 12-14! We are looking forward to enjoying the springtime weather up at Daycholah. If you had signed up in January, and you are still planning to attend, you do not need to re-register. If you couldn’t come in January, but you can now, please sign up here! 

MARCH COMPASSION OFFERING

JustDane (formerly Madison-area Urban Ministry), is a non-profit organization that offers an array of direct supportive initiatives for:

  • people being released from incarceration through our reentry programs, including the Journey Home, Circles of Support and Peer Support,
  • children and families impacted by the justice system,
  • justice-involved youth,
  • employment training for people with barriers to employment through Just Bakery,
  • recuperative medical respite for families experiencing homelessness at Healing House.

In 2023 over 750 individuals received support through JustDane’s initiatives.

This year JustDane celebrates 50 years of social justice work in our community. Throughout our 50 years JustDane has, and continues to engage in the community advocating for State and local justice system reforms, fair and affordable housing, an end to homelessness and racial and economic justice. Rev. William Sloane Coffin once said, “charity yes, always, but never as a substitute for justice.” His words reflect the importance of our work at JustDane offering support to individuals and families in our community, alleviating suffering while working to eliminate the causes of the suffering.



 VIDEO

 Thank you for giving generously

You can make a donation by check, on the memo line, please write “compassion” and mail to ORUCC, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711,

or donate online from our website. 

Office Manager Julie Wombacher

Mon.-Thurs. 8:30am -12:00 pm

608-271-7212 or EMAIL

Senior Pastor: Rev. Dr. Julia Burkey

EMAIL

Associate Pastor: Rev. Kate Mackey EMAIL

Associate Pastor: Rev. Ken Pennings

EMAIL

Children’s Education Coordinator & Music Director: Julie Mazer EMAIL



LIKE or FOLLOW the Orchard Ridge Facebook Page

JOIN our Private FB Group:

“Members & Friends of Orchard Ridge UCC“

Follow us on Instagram @orchardridgeucc
Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

ORUCC Youth Easter Sunday 3/31

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 29, 2024

Hello friends,

A quick reminder that we will not have regular Sunday school on Easter Sunday. Instead, you are invited to join in the festivities! 
6:30 a.m. Sunrise Service, followed by Brunch
10:00 a.m. Easter Worship service, followed by Easter Egg Hunt
If your family would like to attend the ORUCC all-church retreat at Daycholah Center April 12-14, there's still time to sign up! Deadline for registration is April 4. Please register here. If a scholarship would be helpful for your family, please let me know. Hope to see you there!
Regular Sunday school at 9:00, and Confirmation at 3:30, will resume on 4/7.
Grace and peace,
Kate

—

Rev. Kate Mackey
(she/her/hers)
Associate Pastor for Children, Youth, and Families
Orchard Ridge UCC
1501 Gilbert Rd.
Madison, WI 53711
Office: (608) 271-7212 ex. 2030
“If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to one another.” -Mother Teresa 

*Please note: I take Fridays and Saturdays as sabbath days and may not respond immediately to my email during those times. 

ORUCC Weekly Announcements for March 28

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 28, 2024

Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice

Week at a Glance March 28

Maundy Thursday Home Meals

Thursday, March 28, 6-8 pm

Tennebrae

Good Friday Service, March 29

7:00 pm

Sunday, March 31, Easter Sunday

6:30 am Sunrise Service

Followed by Brunch

9:00 am – No Sunday School for Children / Teens

9:00 am – No Java & Jesus

10:00 am Worship

Sermon: Rev. Dr. Julia Burkey

Lay Liturgist: Diane Jungblut

Music: Choir

Easter Egg Hunt following service

3:30 pm- NO Confirmation- on pause for Spring Break,

resuming April 7th

Knitting Group

Monday, April 1

1:30 – 3:30 pm

Sandra Dyar

Reading the Bible

Seriously but not Literally

Tuesday, April 2

10:00 – 11:30 am

In person: Alfred Swan Room

Or by Zoom: Click here to join Zoom meeting

David Anderman

Choir Practice

Wednesday, April 3

7:00 – 8:30 pm

Church

New Members Welcome

Meditation Group

Thursday, April 4

8:30 – 9:30 am

Oscar Romero Room

Becky Baumbach

Women’s Book Group

Thursday, April 4

1:30 – 3 pm

Deanna Blanchard

Zoom

The Ministry of Christian Witness & Service

Thursday, April 4

6:30 – 8:00 pm

LuAnn Greiner

Zoom

Breakfast Group

Friday, April 5

8:30 am

Denny’s on Gammon

Meditation Group

Friday, April 5

9:30 – 10:30 am

Sue Dixon

Zoom

Family Game Night

Friday, April 5

6:00 pm

Rachael Lancor

Friendship Hall

Movie Group

Friday, April 5

7:00 pm

Oakwood Village



MARCH COMPASSION OFFERING

Just Dane (formerly MUM)

JustDane(formerly Madison-area Urban Ministry), is a non-profit organization that offers an array of direct supportive initiatives for:

  • people being released from incarceration through our reentry programs, including the Journey Home, Circles of Support and Peer Support,
  • children and families impacted by the justice system,
  • justice-involved youth,
  • employment training for people with barriers to employment through Just Bakery,
  • recuperative medical respite for families experiencing homelessness at Healing House.

In 2023 over 750 individuals received support through JustDane’s initiatives.

This year JustDane celebrates 50 years of social justice work in our community. Throughout our 50 years JustDane has, and continues to engage in the community advocating for State and local justice system reforms, fair and affordable housing, an end to homelessness and racial and economic justice. Rev. William Sloane Coffin once said, “charity yes, always, but never as a substitute for justice.” His words reflect the importance of our work at JustDane offering support to individuals and families in our community, alleviating suffering while working to eliminate the causes of the suffering.

 VIDEO

 Thank you for giving generously

You can make a donation by check, on the memo line, please write “compassion” and mail to ORUCC, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711,

or donate online from our website. The link is https://orucc.org/contribute/support/

Welcome to Lent at ORUCC! Our theme this year for Lent, inspired by one of the most popular and loved topic of Wayfinding: Soul Tasks of Aging, last year, is “‘Fear not!’ Becoming Death Doulas”

On Easter March 31st we will gather both at sunrise with brunch following and at 10am for a joyous celebration of the resurrection, the mystery at the heart of Christianity, that even in the face of death, God dreams and births new life. Perhaps the call of a death doula is to become midwives to the resurrection.

Maundy Thursday Meals in Homes

Might you be interested in attending a Maundy Thursday meal in a home on March 28th, 6-8 pm?

One open spot at the home of Deanna and Jon Blanchard. Two open spots at the home of Loretta and Todd Swanson.

In the past, the host has provided a Middle Eastern main dish, and has either invited the guests to bring side dishes to share or to bring a favorite beverage (e.g. wine). Your host will be in touch with you about this. Be sure to let your host know if you have any dietary restrictions.

If you have trouble with this online signup tool, there will be signup sheets on the table in the Crossroads the next three Sundays. Or you can contact Ken Pennings to let him know which host you’ve chosen ([email protected] or 608-556-2371).

After supper, your group will share in a brief ritual of Communion remembering Jesus’ last supper with his disciples in an upper room in Jerusalem.

Click here to sign up

FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2024

7:00 PM

GOOD FRIDAY TENEBRAE

ORCHARD RIDGE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

and

MADISON MENNONITE CHURCH

TENEBRAE takes its name from the “Darkness (tenebrae) which covered the whole earth when they crucified Jesus” (Matthew 27:45). This candlelight service of scripture, music, and silent prayer includes the gradual extinguishing of candles and a loud, sustained noise—reminiscent of the earthquake when Jesus died on the Cross (Matthew 27:51). This year, as the Passion (John 18:1 to 19:43) is proclaimed, the Cross will be turned to each of the Four Directions.

We are invited to enter more deeply into the mystery of the cross on which Jesus stretched out his arms in all-inclusive love and breathed forth his indomitable Spirit into a world gasping for life. With the cross, we join him in proclaiming freedom, flourishing and fullness of life to the whole world.

Balance Exercise Class

Beginning April 2, the exercise class will meet at 9:30 instead of 10:00 for people to attend David Anderman’s class “Reading the Bible Seriously but not Literally” at 10:00 on Tuesdays. 

We will concentrate on balance and posture exercises on Tuesday for about 1/2 hour. We will continue the balance activities with additional strengthening exercises on Thursday mornings at 10:00 through April 18.

Even if you have not attended classes in the past few months you can attend this class to learn a routine to improve balance and reduce risk for falls. Email Joyce Pohl at [email protected] if you are interested or have questions. A small donation to the Heart Room is encouraged for those who attend classes. 

Reading the Bible

Seriously But Not Literally

Tuesday mornings 10-11:30 am

In person: Alfred Swan Room

Or by Zoom: Click here to join Zoom meeting

April 2 – May 21 (8 sessions)

Led by David Anderman

Our text will be The Emancipation of God: Postmarks on Cultural Prophesy by Walter Brueggemann, a world-renowned UCC Old Testament/Hebrew Scriptures scholar. The book is a collection of recent short essays which originated as blog posts; they are readable and largely non-technical essays intended for the mythological ‘person-in-the-pew.’ The book is available on short notice from Amazon. Most local bookstores could order it but I would be surprised if any have it in stock. List price is $28.00. Good theology doesn’t come cheap. Neither does bad theology, for that matter.

Our first session(s) will look at the passages traditionally quoted by those opposing LGBTQ+ affirming theologies. Brueggemann sets them alongside the much more numerous passages of welcoming neighbors and of offering hospitality to strangers. This specific issue will open up broader consideration of the nature of Biblical interpretations. Other topics will include exploring what it means to be a Biblically-informed and -directed church in a capitalist empire that co-opts religious institutions and faith; and how a ‘declining’ church can offer hope to a discouraged and down-hearted, sometimes cruel culture.

Through these examples, we will learn ways of taking the Bible seriously but not literally. Two secondary texts will also be referred to. I have just started reading Reading Genesis by Marilyn Robinson, another well-known and UCC author. Fascinating passages about her reading of the book of Genesis. I will also refer to the essay The Symbol Gives Rise to Thought by Paul Ricoeur, a French philosopher who self-identified as a Reformed Christian.

Please email me if you are planning on coming, or have questions.

David Anderman, [email protected]

Friday Breakfast Group – April 5

 

The next Friday Breakfast is set for April 5 at 8:30 am at Denny’s, 433 S. Gammon Road. All are welcome! The group meets on the first Friday of the month and includes both men and women. Join us for this informal chance to connect and converse on many topics. Contact Louise Jeanne, Link for more information

From the Ministry of Christian Witness & Service:

 

Our ORUCC congregation has supported JustDane for many years and it is the recipient of our compassion offering for the month of March. JustDane is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a fundraising event on Thursday, April 11th. We encourage you to attend! Below is a link where you can learn more about this event and purchase tickets ($50). If you would like to connect with other ORUCC members who will also be in attendance, email LuAnn Greiner at [email protected]

 

JustDane’s 50th Anniversary Celebration: Thursday, April 11th from 6pm-8:30pm at Madison College Mitby Theater with live jazz and a presentation by Fr. Gregory Boyle and homeboys from Homeboy Industries. Purchase tickets by April 5th.

JustDane 50th Anniversary Celebration, feat. Father Boyle of Homeboy Ind. Tickets, Thu, Apr 11, 2024 at 6:00 PM | Eventbrite

 

Help with Dinner for The Crossing Campus Ministry

It’s our turn to bring dinner to college students at The Crossing, our campus ministry, on Wednesday, April 10. We’re making a nacho/taco bar! You can help by bringing groceries to church on Sunday, April 7, or cooking, serving, and/or cleaning up on Wednesday, April 10.  Sign up here. Contact LuAnn Greiner ([email protected]) or Julie Horst ([email protected]) with any questions.

Confirmation 2024

Confirmation will be offered this spring for all youth in 7th-9th grade who have not yet been confirmed. This is a special time in the life of our young people where they will be invited to explore their own faith, and learn and grow together! Due to Spring Break and Easter, NO class March 31. Classes will resume on April 7th, 3:30-5:30 p.m., with Confirmation Sunday on Pentecost, May 20th.

For Holy Week, Youth are invited to do a bit of at-home studying using this document, which incudes a podcast to listen to and some reflection questions. Any adults who would like to join in the study are welcome to check it out!

We would love to have you at the all-ages, rescheduled All Church Retreat in April at Daycholah Center! Deadline for registration is April 4th.

If you’d like to join for the whole weekend, the cost is $200 for adults (12+) and $140 for children (6-11, children under 5 are free). This includes lodging for two nights, dinner Friday night, three meals Saturday and one meal Sunday morning. The church is able to supplement part of the weekend financially from our budget, which is already reflected in the cost.

 

We have partial and full scholarships available, so please reach out to us if financial help would make this more accessible for your family, or if you’d like to pay extra to sponsor someone anonymously.

Register here and please pay registration fees on the church website.

Here are some FAQ for our retreat:

Who are our retreat leaders? And what are we doing?

Pastor Kate & Pastor Julia are coordinating a wonderful time with games, fun, and wandering the grounds in between thoughtful programming, delicious meals and plenty of down time to read and relax.

Our Saturday morning retreat leader is The Rev. Kirsten Worzala-Dumke, Chaplain at UW Carbonne Cancer Center and former pastor of Parroquia Santa Maria (a Spanish-language congregation associated with Luther Memorial Church ELCA). Kirsten is also a trusted friend of Pastor Kate.

After some free time, Saturday afternoon will include Wild Church with Pastor Julia’s spouse Daniel Cooperrider around the fire.

Leslie Linser will offer an opportunity for all-abilities Yoga on Saturday evening.

Sunday morning will close with worship facilitated by Pastor Kate & Pastor Julia.

Will this be super fun? Yes definitely!

What is the sleeping situation? If you have specific questions reach out to our wonderful Daycholah coordinator Kaitlyn: [email protected]

Some rooms are private and some are shared, and if you’d like to request a private room please reach out. The facilities have twin size mattresses and you will need to bring bedding.

If I do register, what should I bring?

Sleeping bag or warm blanket & sheets and pillows for a twin size bed.

Towels and toiletries.

Warm outdoor clothes and rain boots.

Cozy indoor clothes and indoor shoes.

Is Daycholah accessible? Yes! They have accessible rooms as well and an elevator in the dining hall building. They also have a golf cart that could be used for traversing Daycholah.

 

While is no way we could say there are no trip or fall hazards, Daycholah staff will do everything they can to assist with any guest needs. If there are specific requests, please know we will do our very best to accommodate.

For other questions related to the facilities, meals, and lodging, contact Kaitlyn: [email protected]

 

Here are the registration links again:

REGISTRATION FORM

PAYMENT SITE

Friday, April 5th is Movie Group Night

Watch “The Burial” and discuss the Film

Oakwood Village Performing Arts Center



The Burial is a riveting court drama. The 2023 American legal drama film directed by Maggie Betts and written by Betts and Doug Wright. The Burial is a riveting court drama based on the story of Jerry O’Keefe, who decides to take on a large funeral company and hires attorney Willie E. Gary to help him. Jerry and Willie remained friends well after the trial was over. Jamie Foxx is Willie E. Gary, Tommy Lee Jones is Jeremiah O’Keefe.



Join us at 7 p.m. on the 5th and enjoy the discussion 

Spiritual

Nourishment

for you!

For the week of March 21 – March 31



Jeanne’s reflections will resume on April 11.

 

Read this week’s reflections as a way to dive deeper into your spiritual practice or to get some nourishment and inspiration

for your day.



Click Here for Reflections

 

We are grateful for the ministry of Jeanne Moberly who is a member of Adult Faith Formation, as she puts together a set of fresh readings every week for our devotional practice at Orchard Ridge UCC. You will see these posted daily if you are part of the “Members & Friends” Facebook group. If you know someone who needs encouragement and would like the devotional mailed to them, please contact Julie Wombacher in the church office.

Lunch and Learn

April 10th, 11:30

 

Our very own ORUCC member, Bev Davis, will share her insights on Bullying.  “What you may not know about bullying, learning to believe in yourself can be a lifetime struggle.” This presentation will be enlightening, inspirational.  Bev Davis is an Award-Winning Author, Chaplain/Pastor, Speaker. 

 

Bev is the author of four books, holds a Master of Divinity degree from McCormick Theological Seminary, Chicago and is also a Certified Dementia Practitioner (NCCDP). She has spoken to audiences throughout Wisconsin and the Midwest. She understands anti-bullying from knowing the subject first-hand from being bullied as a young person growing up in Chicago. 

 

Join us of Lunch and Learn, Wednesday, April 10th at 11:30.  We dine at 11:45 from a wonderful buffet.  $10 per person. The program begins at 12:30. Please RSVP  Steve Sheets, [email protected] .

 

By Zoom on Thursdays: 04:00 PM Central Time

    

    Apr 18, 2024 04:00 PM

    May 16, 2024 04:00 PM

Click here to join Zoom meeting



us02web.zoom.us/j/87998025473?pwd=dEEzcFkvSnBNdzNUaE5BK2RxUDZqZz09

Meeting ID: 879 9802 5473

Passcode: 573548

Dial in

1 312 626 6799 US 

There is a new campaign to raise $200,000 to rebuild and strengthen the 17 lakeside cabins at Moon Beach, a place that has been a source of renewal for so many of us over the years.  Here’s a little more background from the folks at Moon Beach:

“The foundations, crafted decades ago with cinder blocks, stumps, and pine posts now require restoration to ensure their longevity and stability against the elements. By repairing and restoring the foundations with a firm footing for the footprint and base of the cabins, we can ensure their stability and compliance with regulatory standards, allowing us to maintain them for generations to come.”

With a matching grant already announced, the goal is to raise $100,000 that would then net the campaign $200,000. For those of us at ORUCC who love Moon Beach and who have the ability to give, thank you for your consideration.  Click here to donate.

Sign Up Now Through the End of June 2024!

AT ORUCC, the Members are the Ministers!

We are seeking volunteers to serve on Sunday mornings for in-person worship. You need not be a member, simply a person who loves ORUCC and is eager to find a place to serve!

Young people are welcome to sign up too!

Would you consider serving one or more times as

a Coffee Maker, a Welcomer, a Lay Liturgist or

to assist with Holy Communion?

Feel free to sign up as an individual, a couple, or a family!

Click here to sign up as a Coffee Maker

Click here to sign up as a Welcomer

Click here to sign up as a Lay Liturgist

Click here to assist with Holy Communion

After selecting one or more dates, you will need to click “Submit and Sign Up” at the bottom of the page, then enter your name & email address, then click “Sign Up Now.”

Questions or problems signing up?

Contact Ken Pennings at [email protected] or 608-556-2371.

Julie will be out of the office March 30-April 7

Office Manager Julie Wombacher

available Mon.-Thurs. 8:30am -12:00 pm

by appointment

608-271-7212 or EMAIL

Senior Pastor Julia Burkey available

Tues.- Fri. & Sun. 9:00 am – 7:00 pm

by appointment

518-542-6915 EMAIL

Associate Pastor Ken Pennings: available

Tues.-Thurs. 10:00 am -5:00 pm 

by appointment

608-556-2371 EMAIL

Associate Pastor Kate Mackey: available

Mon.-Thurs. 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

by appointment

608-358-6143 EMAIL

Julia and Ken (try to) take Monday & Saturday as Sabbath days,

Kate Friday and Saturday

Friday is observed as a writing day for the preaching pastor.

In case of a pastoral emergency, please call any of the pastors, as all pastors are available by phone, text and we will always have a pastor on call who we can turn to.

LIKE or FOLLOW the Orchard Ridge FaceBook Page

JOIN our Private FB Group:

“Members & Friends of Orchard Ridge UCC“

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

1501 Gilbert Road

Madison, WI 53711

608-271-7212

Office Hours: M-Th 8:30-12:30
Facebook  Twitter  Pinterest
Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

ORUCC Worship Resources for Sunday, March 24th, 2024

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 23, 2024

Orchard Ridge

United Church of Christ

Sunday Worship Resources

Sunday, March 24, 2024

Palm Sunday

9:00 am Coloring activity with parents for children & youth in Friendship Hall on Palm Sunday & Easter, no Sunday School

9:00 am Java & Jesus for Adults

Alfred Swan Room

10:00 am Worship

Sermon: Rev. Dr. Julia Burkey

“Speaking Life in the Face of Death”

Lay Liturgist: Ginny Moore Kruse

Music: TRU Function

Click here for at-home bulletin

Join our Worship virtually

on YouTube any time after 10 am:

YouTube Link

You will need to refresh the page

after 10 am if you have opened it before

For Children & Youth – March 24th

Children

8:30 Nursery Care: We have a new kid play area in crossroads! When we only have one nursery attendant, to be in compliance with safe-sanctuary policy they station themselves in the crossroads and engage the kids in the crossroads play area while their parents are near by, attempting to worship.

March 24: Palm Sunday (no regular Sunday school; no Music Connections). There will be coloring materials at 9 am Friendship Hall for all ages. 

March 28: Maundy Thursday Dinners

March 29 Good Friday Tenebrae 7:00 p.m.

March 31 Easter: (no regular Sunday school; no Music Connections)

   6:30 a.m. Sunrise service, followed by brunch

   10:00 a.m. Easter Worship, followed by egg hunt

April 7: Sunday School and Music Connections Resume

Youth

This coming Sunday is the start of Holy Week as we celebrate Palm Sunday. There will be no regular youth programming at 9:00 a.m. TRU Function is playing in worship with practice starting at 8:30 a.m. There will be an intergenerational coloring opportunity in Friendship Hall beginning at 9:00 a.m. with Holy Week activities available. The entire congregation will meet to process with palms into the worship hall a few minutes before 10:00 a.m.

During Holy Week, some of you may have signed up for Maundy Thursday dinner groups 3/28. At 7:00 p.m. on 3/29, all are welcome to attend the Good Friday Tenebrae service. Our confirmation group is exploring Holy Week with a self-study.

On Easter Sunday 3/31, there are several opportunities:

  • 6:30 a.m. Sunrise Service
  • Brunch (immediately following sunrise service)
  • 10:00 a.m. Easter Worship
  • Kids’ Easter Egg Hunt (immediately following worship service)

*Pastor Kate needs some help setting up the Easter egg hunt! Any youth who are available, please let her know!*

For those who are heading out for Spring Break next week, safe travels! 

Some fun things coming up:

  • Our All-Church retreat is, April 12-14! We are looking forward to enjoying the springtime weather up at Daycholah. If you had signed up in January, and you are still planning to attend, you do not need to re-register. If you couldn’t come in January, but you can now, please sign up here! 

Java & Jesus

Sunday, March 24,

at 9 am

Attend in-person at the church in the

Alfred Swan Room, or attend remotely

by Zoom

Jeanne Moberly facilitating

All are welcome!

Join us even if this is your first time!

Please read ahead of time and come prepared to discuss 4 brief passages on “resurrection.”

Click here for reading

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

 Click here to join Zoom discussion

Or paste the following into your browser:  

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83649436657?pwd=R2hVU0drV1N2VTZlMVJoRmI4K2VtUT09

To join Zoom discussion by phone: 1 312 626 6799

Meeting ID: 836 4943 6657

Passcode: 315584

If you have difficulty accessing the Zoom discussion,

phone Ken Pennings at 608-556-2371

MARCH COMPASSION OFFERING

JustDane (formerly Madison-area Urban Ministry), is a non-profit organization that offers an array of direct supportive initiatives for:

  • people being released from incarceration through our reentry programs, including the Journey Home, Circles of Support and Peer Support,
  • children and families impacted by the justice system,
  • justice-involved youth,
  • employment training for people with barriers to employment through Just Bakery,
  • recuperative medical respite for families experiencing homelessness at Healing House.

In 2023 over 750 individuals received support through JustDane’s initiatives.

This year JustDane celebrates 50 years of social justice work in our community. Throughout our 50 years JustDane has, and continues to engage in the community advocating for State and local justice system reforms, fair and affordable housing, an end to homelessness and racial and economic justice. Rev. William Sloane Coffin once said, “charity yes, always, but never as a substitute for justice.” His words reflect the importance of our work at JustDane offering support to individuals and families in our community, alleviating suffering while working to eliminate the causes of the suffering.



 VIDEO

 Thank you for giving generously

You can make a donation by check, on the memo line, please write “compassion” and mail to ORUCC, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711,

or donate online from our website. 

Office Manager Julie Wombacher

Mon.-Thurs. 8:30am -12:00 pm

608-271-7212 or EMAIL

Senior Pastor: Rev. Dr. Julia Burkey

EMAIL

Associate Pastor: Rev. Kate Mackey EMAIL

Associate Pastor: Rev. Ken Pennings

EMAIL

Children’s Education Coordinator & Music Director: Julie Mazer EMAIL



LIKE or FOLLOW the Orchard Ridge Facebook Page

JOIN our Private FB Group:

“Members & Friends of Orchard Ridge UCC“

Follow us on Instagram @orchardridgeucc
Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

ORUCC Youth 3/24

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 21, 2024

Hello friends,

This coming Sunday is the start of Holy Week as we celebrate Palm Sunday. There will be no regular youth programming at 9:00 a.m. TRU Function is playing in worship with practice starting at 8:30 a.m. There will be an intergenerational coloring opportunity in Friendship Hall beginning at 9:00 a.m. with Holy Week activities available. The entire congregation will meet to process with palms into the worship hall a few minutes before 10:00 a.m.
During Holy Week, some of you may have signed up for Maundy Thursday dinner groups 3/28. At 7:00 p.m. on 3/29, all are welcome to attend the Good Friday Tenebrae service. Our confirmation group is exploring Holy Week with a self-study, which I have attached to this email in case anyone else would like to participate as well. 
On Easter Sunday 3/31, there are several opportunities:
  • 6:30 a.m. Sunrise Service
  • Brunch (immediately following sunrise service)
  • 10:00 a.m. Easter Worship
  • Kids' Easter Egg Hunt (immediately following worship service)
*I need some help setting up the Easter egg hunt! Any youth who are available, please let me know!*

For those who are heading out for Spring Break next week, safe travels! 
Grace and peace,
Kate

—

Rev. Kate Mackey
(she/her/hers)
Associate Pastor for Children, Youth, and Families
Orchard Ridge UCC
1501 Gilbert Rd.
Madison, WI 53711
Office: (608) 271-7212 ex. 2030
“If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to one another.” -Mother Teresa 

*Please note: I take Fridays and Saturdays as sabbath days and may not respond immediately to my email during those times. 
pdf icon Holy-Week-Reflection.pdf

ORUCC Weekly Announcements for March 21

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 21, 2024

Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice

Week at a Glance March 21

Sunday, March 24, Palm Sunday

9:00 am – No Sunday School for Children / Teens

9:00 am – For Adults – Java & Jesus – Alfred Swan Room

10:00 am Worship

Sermon: Rev. Dr. Julia Burkey

Lay Liturgist: Ginny Moore Kruse

Music: TRU Function

3:30 pm- NO Confirmation- on pause for Spring Break,

resuming April 7th

Men’s Group

Monday, March 25

7:15 – 8:30 pm

Oscar Romero Room

Choir Practice

Wednesday, March 27

7:00 – 8:30 pm

Church

New Members Welcome

Maundy Thursday Home Meals

Thursday, March 28, 6-8 pm

3 spots left!

Click here to sign up

Meditation Group

Thursday, March 29

8:30 – 9:30 am

Oscar Romero Room

Becky Baumbach

Meditation Group

Friday, March 29

9:30 – 10:30 am

Sue Dixon

Zoom



Tennebrae

Good Friday Service, March 29

7:00 pm

MARCH COMPASSION OFFERING

Just Dane (formerly MUM)

JustDane(formerly Madison-area Urban Ministry), is a non-profit organization that offers an array of direct supportive initiatives for:

  • people being released from incarceration through our reentry programs, including the Journey Home, Circles of Support and Peer Support,
  • children and families impacted by the justice system,
  • justice-involved youth,
  • employment training for people with barriers to employment through Just Bakery,
  • recuperative medical respite for families experiencing homelessness at Healing House.

In 2023 over 750 individuals received support through JustDane’s initiatives.

This year JustDane celebrates 50 years of social justice work in our community. Throughout our 50 years JustDane has, and continues to engage in the community advocating for State and local justice system reforms, fair and affordable housing, an end to homelessness and racial and economic justice. Rev. William Sloane Coffin once said, “charity yes, always, but never as a substitute for justice.” His words reflect the importance of our work at JustDane offering support to individuals and families in our community, alleviating suffering while working to eliminate the causes of the suffering.

 VIDEO

 Thank you for giving generously

You can make a donation by check, on the memo line, please write “compassion” and mail to ORUCC, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711,

or donate online from our website. The link is https://orucc.org/contribute/support/

If you’d like to know more about JustDane’s work, there are two members of ORUCC on JustDane’s Board: Julie Horst and Phil Haslanger. They would be happy to share more about JustDane’s work in our community. We also invite you to join us on Thursday, April 11th as we celebrate 50 years. Our keynote speaker for the event will be Father Boyle, Founder of Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles. (Use QR code below for tickets to the April 11th Father Boyle event.)

Come Here TRU Function this Sunday with their new Drum Set

TRU Function would like to share a heartfelt “thank you” for the congregation’s support in purchasing a new drum set. We’ll look forward to seeing it in worship on Palm Sunday, March 24! You can still contribute by check or ONLINE.

Welcome to Lent at ORUCC! Our theme this year for Lent, inspired by one of the most popular and loved topic of Wayfinding: Soul Tasks of Aging, last year, is “‘Fear not!’ Becoming Death Doulas”

On March 24th we follow Jesus into Palm Sunday, with the triumphant waving of palm branches, and we will think about Jesus’ call to justice, and how to speak life in the face of death dealing systems of the world.

On Easter March 31st we will gather both at sunrise with brunch following and at 10am for a joyous celebration of the resurrection, the mystery at the heart of Christianity, that even in the face of death, God dreams and births new life. Perhaps the call of a death doula is to become midwives to the resurrection.

Maundy Thursday Meals in Homes

Might you be interested in attending a Maundy Thursday meal in a home on March 28th, 6-8 pm?

Both Pastors Julia and Ken will be hosting dinners along with 3 others!

In the past, the host has provided a Middle Eastern main dish, and has either invited the guests to bring side dishes to share or to bring a favorite beverage (e.g. wine). Your host will be in touch with you about this. Be sure to let your host know if you have any dietary restrictions.

If you have trouble with this online signup tool, there will be signup sheets on the table in the Crossroads the next three Sundays. Or you can contact Ken Pennings to let him know which host you’ve chosen ([email protected] or 608-556-2371).

After supper, your group will share in a brief litany of Communion remembering Jesus’ last supper with his disciples in an upper room in Jerusalem.

Click here to sign up

FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2024

7:00 PM

GOOD FRIDAY TENEBRAE

ORCHARD RIDGE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

and

MADISON MENNONITE CHURCH

TENEBRAE takes its name from the “Darkness (tenebrae) which covered the whole earth when they crucified Jesus” (Matthew 27:45). This candlelight service of scripture, music, and silent prayer includes the gradual extinguishing of candles and a loud, sustained noise—reminiscent of the earthquake when Jesus died on the Cross (Matthew 27:51). This year, as the Passion (John 18:1 to 19:43) is proclaimed, the Cross will be turned to each of the Four Directions.

We are invited to enter more deeply into the mystery of the cross on which Jesus stretched out his arms in all-inclusive love and breathed forth his indomitable Spirit into a world gasping for life. With the cross, we join him in proclaiming freedom, flourishing and fullness of life to the whole world.

Help with Dinner for The Crossing Campus Ministry

It’s our turn to bring dinner to college students at The Crossing, our campus ministry, on Wednesday, April 10. We’re making a nacho/taco bar! You can help by bringing groceries to church on Sunday, April 7, or cooking, serving, and/or cleaning up on Wednesday, April 10.  Sign up here. Contact LuAnn Greiner ([email protected]) or Julie Horst ([email protected]) with any questions.

Confirmation 2024

Confirmation will be offered this spring for all youth in 7th-9th grade who have not yet been confirmed. This is a special time in the life of our young people where they will be invited to explore their own faith, and learn and grow together! Due to Spring Break and Easter, NO class March 24, or 31. Classes will resume on April 7th, 3:30-5:30 p.m., with Confirmation Sunday on Pentecost, May 20th.

For Holy Week, Youth are invited to do a bit of at-home studying using this document, which incudes a podcast to listen to and some reflection questions. Any adults who would like to join in the study are welcome to check it out!

We would love to have you at the all-ages, rescheduled All Church Retreat in April at Daycholah Center!

If you’d like to join for the whole weekend, the cost is $200 for adults (12+) and $140 for children (6-11, children under 5 are free). This includes lodging for two nights, dinner Friday night, three meals Saturday and one meal Sunday morning. The church is able to supplement part of the weekend financially from our budget, which is already reflected in the cost.

 

We have partial and full scholarships available, so please reach out to us if financial help would make this more accessible for your family, or if you’d like to pay extra to sponsor someone anonymously.

Register here and please pay registration fees on the church website.

 

Here are some FAQ for our retreat:

Who are our retreat leaders? And what are we doing?

Pastor Kate & Pastor Julia are coordinating a wonderful time with games, fun, and wandering the grounds in between thoughtful programming, delicious meals and plenty of down time to read and relax.

Our Saturday morning retreat leader is The Rev. Kirsten Worzala-Dumke, Chaplain at UW Carbonne Cancer Center and former pastor of Parroquia Santa Maria (a Spanish-language congregation associated with Luther Memorial Church ELCA). Kirsten is also a trusted friend of Pastor Kate.

After some free time, Saturday afternoon will include Wild Church with Pastor Julia’s spouse Daniel Cooperrider around the fire.

Leslie Linser will offer an opportunity for all-abilities Yoga on Saturday evening.

Sunday morning will close with worship facilitated by Pastor Kate & Pastor Julia.

Will this be super fun? Yes definitely!

What is the sleeping situation? If you have specific questions reach out to our wonderful Daycholah coordinator Kaitlyn: [email protected]

Some rooms are private and some are shared, and if you’d like to request a private room please reach out. The facilities have twin size mattresses and you will need to bring bedding.

If I do register, what should I bring?

Sleeping bag or warm blanket & sheets and pillows for a twin size bed.

Towels and toiletries.

Warm outdoor clothes and rain boots.

Cozy indoor clothes and indoor shoes.

Is Daycholah accessible? Yes! They have accessible rooms as well and an elevator in the dining hall building. They also have a golf cart that could be used for traversing Daycholah.

 

While is no way we could say there are no trip or fall hazards, Daycholah staff will do everything they can to assist with any guest needs. If there are specific requests, please know we will do our very best to accommodate.

For other questions related to the facilities, meals, and lodging, contact Kaitlyn: [email protected]

 

Here are the registration links again:

REGISTRATION FORM

PAYMENT SITE

 

We cannot wait to share time with you in the New Year!

 

Julia & Kate

Spiritual

Nourishment

for you!

For the week of March 21 – March 31

 

Read this week’s reflections as a way to dive deeper into your spiritual practice or to get some nourishment and inspiration

for your day.



Click Here for Reflections

 

We are grateful for the ministry of Jeanne Moberly who is a member of Adult Faith Formation, as she puts together a set of fresh readings every week for our devotional practice at Orchard Ridge UCC. You will see these posted daily if you are part of the “Members & Friends” Facebook group. If you know someone who needs encouragement and would like the devotional mailed to them, please contact Julie Wombacher in the church office.

April 4th is Movie Group Night

Watch “The Burial” and discuss the Film

Oakwood Village Performing Arts Center



The Burial is a riveting court drama. The 2023 American legal drama film directed by Maggie Betts and written by Betts and Doug Wright. The Burial is a riveting court drama based on the story of Jerry O’Keefe, who decides to take on a large funeral company and hires attorney Willie E. Gary to help him. Jerry and Willie remained friends well after the trial was over. Jamie Foxx is Willie E. Gary, Tommy Lee Jones is Jeremiah O’Keefe.



Join us at 7 p.m. on the 10th and enjoy the discussion immediately following the film.

Lunch and Learn

April 10th, 11:30

 

Our very own ORUCC member, Bev Davis, will share her insights on Bullying.  “What you may not know about bullying, learning to believe in yourself can be a lifetime struggle.” This presentation will be enlightening, inspirational.  Bev Davis is an Award-Winning Author, Chaplain/Pastor, Speaker. 

 

Bev is the author of four books, holds a Master of Divinity degree from McCormick Theological Seminary, Chicago and is also a Certified Dementia Practitioner (NCCDP). She has spoken to audiences throughout Wisconsin and the Midwest. She understands anti-bullying from knowing the subject first-hand from being bullied as a young person growing up in Chicago. 

 

Join us of Lunch and Learn, Wednesday, April 10th at 11:30.  We dine at 11:45 from a wonderful buffet.  $10 per person. The program begins at 12:30. Please RSVP  Steve Sheets, [email protected] .

 

By Zoom on Thursdays: 04:00 PM Central Time

    

    Mar 21, 2024 04:00 PM

    Apr 18, 2024 04:00 PM

    May 16, 2024 04:00 PM

Click here to join Zoom meeting



us02web.zoom.us/j/87998025473?pwd=dEEzcFkvSnBNdzNUaE5BK2RxUDZqZz09

Meeting ID: 879 9802 5473

Passcode: 573548

Dial in

1 312 626 6799 US 

There is a new campaign to raise $200,000 to rebuild and strengthen the 17 lakeside cabins at Moon Beach, a place that has been a source of renewal for so many of us over the years.  Here’s a little more background from the folks at Moon Beach:

“The foundations, crafted decades ago with cinder blocks, stumps, and pine posts now require restoration to ensure their longevity and stability against the elements. By repairing and restoring the foundations with a firm footing for the footprint and base of the cabins, we can ensure their stability and compliance with regulatory standards, allowing us to maintain them for generations to come.”

With a matching grant already announced, the goal is to raise $100,000 that would then net the campaign $200,000. For those of us at ORUCC who love Moon Beach and who have the ability to give, thank you for your consideration.  Click here to donate.

Reading the Bible

Seriously But Not Literally

Tuesday mornings 10-11:30 am

in the Alfred Swan Room

(Zoom if there is interest)

April 2 – May 21 (8 sessions)

Led by David Anderman

Our text will be The Emancipation of God: Postmarks on Cultural Prophesy by Walter Brueggemann, a world-renowned UCC Old Testament/Hebrew Scriptures scholar. The book is a collection of recent short essays which originated as blog posts; they are readable and largely non-technical essays intended for the mythological ‘person-in-the-pew.’ The book is available on short notice from Amazon. Most local bookstores could order it but I would be surprised if any have it in stock. List price is $28.00. Good theology doesn’t come cheap. Neither does bad theology, for that matter.

Our first session(s) will look at the passages traditionally quoted by those opposing LGBTQ+ affirming theologies. Brueggemann sets them alongside the much more numerous passages of welcoming neighbors and of offering hospitality to strangers. This specific issue will open up broader consideration of the nature of Biblical interpretations. Other topics will include exploring what it means to be a Biblically-informed and -directed church in a capitalist empire that co-opts religious institutions and faith; and how a ‘declining’ church can offer hope to a discouraged and down-hearted, sometimes cruel culture.

Through these examples, we will learn ways of taking the Bible seriously but not literally. Two secondary texts will also be referred to. I have just started reading Reading Genesis by Marilyn Robinson, another well-known and UCC author. Fascinating passages about her reading of the book of Genesis. I will also refer to the essay The Symbol Gives Rise to Thought by Paul Ricoeur, a French philosopher who self-identified as a Reformed Christian.

Please email me if you are planning on coming, or have questions?

David Anderman, [email protected]

Sign Up Now Through the End of June 2024!

AT ORUCC, the Members are the Ministers!

We are seeking volunteers to serve on Sunday mornings for in-person worship. You need not be a member, simply a person who loves ORUCC and is eager to find a place to serve!

Young people are welcome to sign up too!

Would you consider serving one or more times as

a Coffee Maker, a Welcomer, a Lay Liturgist or

to assist with Holy Communion?

Feel free to sign up as an individual, a couple, or a family!

Click here to sign up as a Coffee Maker

Click here to sign up as a Welcomer

Click here to sign up as a Lay Liturgist

Click here to assist with Holy Communion

After selecting one or more dates, you will need to click “Submit and Sign Up” at the bottom of the page, then enter your name & email address, then click “Sign Up Now.”

Questions or problems signing up?

Contact Ken Pennings at [email protected] or 608-556-2371.

Office Manager Julie Wombacher

available Mon.-Thurs. 8:30am -12:00 pm

by appointment

608-271-7212 or EMAIL

Senior Pastor Julia Burkey available

Tues.- Fri. & Sun. 9:00 am – 7:00 pm

by appointment

518-542-6915 EMAIL

Associate Pastor Ken Pennings: available

Tues.-Thurs. 10:00 am -5:00 pm 

by appointment

608-556-2371 EMAIL

Associate Pastor Kate Mackey: available

Mon.-Thurs. 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

by appointment

608-358-6143 EMAIL

Julia and Ken (try to) take Monday & Saturday as Sabbath days,

Kate Friday and Saturday

Friday is observed as a writing day for the preaching pastor.

In case of a pastoral emergency, please call any of the pastors, as all pastors are available by phone, text and we will always have a pastor on call who we can turn to.

LIKE or FOLLOW the Orchard Ridge FaceBook Page

JOIN our Private FB Group:

“Members & Friends of Orchard Ridge UCC“

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

1501 Gilbert Road

Madison, WI 53711

608-271-7212

Office Hours: M-Th 8:30-12:30
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Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

ORUCC Java & Jesus, March 24th, 9 am (In-person or by Zoom)

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 21, 2024

Java & Jesus

Sunday, March 24, at 9 am

Attend in-person at the church in the

Alfred Swan Room, or attend remotely

by Zoom

Jeanne Moberly facilitating

All are welcome!

Join us even if this is your first time!

Please read ahead of time and come prepared to discuss 4 brief passages on “resurrection.”

Click here for reading

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

 Click here to join Zoom discussion

Or paste the following into your browser:  

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83649436657?pwd=R2hVU0drV1N2VTZlMVJoRmI4K2VtUT09

To join Zoom discussion by phone: 1 312 626 6799

Meeting ID: 836 4943 6657

Passcode: 315584

If you have difficulty accessing the Zoom discussion,

phone Ken Pennings at 608-556-2371
Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, www.orucc.org, Madison, WI 53711

No Sunday School/Music Connections 3/24 and 3/31

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 20, 2024

Good Morning, 
This is a friendly reminder that there is no regularly scheduled Children's Programming this week and next. Below is the line-up of upcoming events. 
March 24: Palm Sunday (no regular Sunday school; no Music Connections). There will be coloring materials at 9 am Friendship Hall for all ages. 
March 28: Maundy Thursday Dinners (sign up here)
March 29 Good Friday Tenebrae 7:00 p.m.
March 31 Easter: (no regular Sunday school; no Music Connections)
     6:30 a.m. Sunrise service, followed by brunch
     10:00 a.m. Easter Worship, followed by egg hunt
April 7: Sunday School and Music Connections Resume

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children's Education Coordinator
Children's Music Director

ORUCC- Flicker Wild Church Wednesday March 20th 5pm

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 19, 2024

 

Join Flicker Wild Church Pop-up gathering for Earth’s Easter, the Spring Equinox on March 20th at 5pm at the Pop’s Knoll entrance of Donald County Park.

Bring your own chair or blanket to sit on around the fire! Pastor Julia Burkey and her spouse Daniel Cooperrider are so grateful for the wonderful support from ORUCC folks who make up about half our our attendees- the other half are folks who have been longing for a nature centered worshiping community.

We gather in sacred circle to sing, hear poetry, scripture and for a wild wander then sharing of our experience to allow the earth to speak to us and through us.

Donald County Park, Mount Horeb 1945 State Highway 92, Mount Horeb, Wisconsin 53572

We gather at 5:00pm-6:15 or so…

you will be home the 7:11pm sunset!
 

 
Find us on Instagram
Find us on Facebook
Donate to Flicker

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

ORUCC Worship Resources for Sunday, March 17th, 2024

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 16, 2024

Orchard Ridge

United Church of Christ

Sunday Worship Resources

Sunday, March 17, 2024

Lent 5

9:00 am Sunday School for children & youth

9:00 am Java & Jesus for Adults

Alfred Swan Room

10:00 am Worship

Sermon: Rev. Dr. Julia Burkey

“Rituals at End of Life”

Lay Liturgist: Lauren Amburn

Music: ORUCC Choir

Click here for at-home bulletin

Join our Worship virtually

on YouTube any time after 10 am:

YouTube Link

You will need to refresh the page

after 10 am if you have opened it before

Pastor Kate Mackey’s Installation

March 17th 1:30pm

Wisconsin UCC Southwest Association members will formally install Kate as our Associate Pastor.

All are welcome for this special service!r

Worship service + cake 1:30pm

You may join using the same YouTube link listed above

For Children & Youth – March 17th

Children

8:30 Nursery Care: Jade and Marcia will be available for childcare in the nursery. 

Sunday School starts at 9 am. PreK-1st grade children are invited to sing with Julie in the Johnson room from 9:00-9:15. After the music, Karen and Josie will guide the children in the Lenten stories, “Too Afraid to Follow Jesus” and “Jesus’ Trial.”

The 2-5 grade classroom will continue their study of the season of Lent. This week, the children will learn about Palm Sunday to prepare them for next week.  Stations will include sand, several art opportunities, and puzzles. We’ll close with a visual meditation by viewing art inspired by Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem. Joanna and Jadyn will guide the children in their learning in the Bridges Room. Be sure to pop by the Bridges Room to share your thoughts on “How We Can Make The World A Better Place.” Please add your ideas to the sign on the door. Everyone in our community is welcome to contribute. 

Music Connections: This week the children will begin the 10 o’clock hour in the sanctuary with you. When they are dismissed for Music Connections, we will move to the downstairs Bonhoeffer Room for music and movement. The children have already started crafting their next project: Guided Meditation and Reflective Music. Two weeks ago, the children composed a beautiful guided meditation. This week, we’ll begin to work on the accompanying music. Bethany S. will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer. 

No Music Connections 3/24 and 3/31. 

Looking ahead: 

March 17: Pastor Kate’s Installation 1:30

March 24: Palm Sunday (no regular Sunday school)

March 28: Maundy Thursday Dinners (sign up here)

March 29 Good Friday Tenebrae 7:00 p.m.

March 31 Easter: (no regular Sunday school)

   6:30 a.m. Sunrise service, followed by brunch

   10:00 a.m. Easter Worship, followed by egg hunt

Youth

This Sunday (St. Patrick’s Day!) there are many things happening for youth. Sunday school will be at 9:00 a.m., with Susan and Kristin guiding. We will continue “echoing” the story of scripture through an exploration of the Psalms. TRU Function will practice from 10-12. 

Following the worship service, Paul Vash is organizing an Easter-egg candy stuffing/pizza party for the youth. The eggs will be used for our Easter egg hunt on 3/31! TF youth who would like to participate are welcome to join in after practice. 

Any youth who will be available to help set up and facilitate the easter egg hunt on Easter Sunday, please let me know!

At 1:30, there will be a special “Installation Service” to officially recognize and affirm the start of Pastor Kate’s ministry at ORUCC with the wider church community. We are excited and hope that you all will be able to join in. Josie, Jadyn, and Lily are providing some special music, too. 

Reminder, NO confirmation this week (but you have an opportunity to fill out TWO worship notes on the 17th if you are feeling ambitious! ;). We will resume in earnest on April 7. 

Some fun things coming up:

  • We are looking for youth to help stuff eggs for the Easter egg hunt! This will happen after worship on Sunday 3/17, with pizza lunch provided. Stay for Pastor Kate’s installation service at 1:30! Contact Paul Vash ([email protected]) for more info.
  • Older youth: Would you be willing to help set up and coordinate the egg hunt on Easter Sunday? Talk to Pastor Kate.
  • Registration has re-opened for our RESCHEDULED All-Church retreat, April 12-14! We are looking forward to enjoying the springtime weather up at Daycholah. If you had signed up in January, and you are still planning to attend, you do not need to re-register. If you couldn’t come in January, but you can now, please sign up here! 

Java & Jesus

Sunday, March 17,

at 9 am

Attend in-person at the church in the

Alfred Swan Room, or attend remotely

by Zoom

Dick Rossmiller facilitating

All are welcome!

Join us even if this is your first time!

Please read ahead of time and come prepared to discuss an article by John Shelby Spong, “The Connection Between the Crucifixion and the Passover.”

Click here for reading

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

 Click here to join Zoom discussion

Or paste the following into your browser:  

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83649436657?pwd=R2hVU0drV1N2VTZlMVJoRmI4K2VtUT09

To join Zoom discussion by phone: 1 312 626 6799

Meeting ID: 836 4943 6657

Passcode: 315584

If you have difficulty accessing the Zoom discussion,

phone Ken Pennings at 608-556-2371

MARCH COMPASSION OFFERING

JustDane (formerly Madison-area Urban Ministry), is a non-profit organization that offers an array of direct supportive initiatives for:

  • people being released from incarceration through our reentry programs, including the Journey Home, Circles of Support and Peer Support,
  • children and families impacted by the justice system,
  • justice-involved youth,
  • employment training for people with barriers to employment through Just Bakery,
  • recuperative medical respite for families experiencing homelessness at Healing House.

In 2023 over 750 individuals received support through JustDane’s initiatives.

This year JustDane celebrates 50 years of social justice work in our community. Throughout our 50 years JustDane has, and continues to engage in the community advocating for State and local justice system reforms, fair and affordable housing, an end to homelessness and racial and economic justice. Rev. William Sloane Coffin once said, “charity yes, always, but never as a substitute for justice.” His words reflect the importance of our work at JustDane offering support to individuals and families in our community, alleviating suffering while working to eliminate the causes of the suffering.



 VIDEO

 Thank you for giving generously

You can make a donation by check, on the memo line, please write “compassion” and mail to ORUCC, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711,

or donate online from our website. 

Office Manager Julie Wombacher

Mon.-Thurs. 8:30am -12:00 pm

608-271-7212 or EMAIL

Senior Pastor: Rev. Dr. Julia Burkey

EMAIL

Associate Pastor: Rev. Kate Mackey EMAIL

Associate Pastor: Rev. Ken Pennings

EMAIL

Children’s Education Coordinator & Music Director: Julie Mazer EMAIL



LIKE or FOLLOW the Orchard Ridge Facebook Page

JOIN our Private FB Group:

“Members & Friends of Orchard Ridge UCC“

Follow us on Instagram @orchardridgeucc
Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

ORUCC–Sign up to attend a Maundy Thursday dinner in a home on March 28th, 6 spots left!

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 15, 2024

 

Sign up to attend

a Maundy Thursday

dinner in a home

March 28th, 6-8 pm
 

Might you be interested in attending a Maundy Thursday meal in a home on March 28th, 6-8 pm?

In the past, the host has provided a Middle Eastern main dish, and has either invited the guests to bring side dishes to share or to bring a favorite beverage (e.g. wine). Your host will be in touch with you about this. Be sure to let your host know if you have any dietary restrictions.

If you have trouble with this online signup tool, there will be signup sheets on the table in the Crossroads the next three Sundays. Or you can contact Ken Pennings to let him know which host you’ve chosen ([email protected] or 608-556-2371).

After supper, your group will share in a brief litany of Communion remembering Jesus’ last supper with his disciples in an upper room in Jerusalem.

Click here to sign up
Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

ORUCC Youth March 17

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 14, 2024

Hello friends,

This Sunday (St. Patrick's Day!) there are many things happening for youth. Sunday school will be at 9:00 a.m., with Susan and Kristin guiding. We will continue “echoing” the story of scripture through an exploration of the Psalms. TRU Function will practice from 10-12. 
Following the worship service, Paul Vash is organizing an Easter-egg candy stuffing/pizza party for the youth. The eggs will be used for our Easter egg hunt on 3/31! TF youth who would like to participate are welcome to join in after practice. 
Any youth who will be available to help set up and facilitate the easter egg hunt on Easter Sunday, please let me know!

At 1:30, there will be a special “Installation Service” to officially recognize and affirm the start of my ministry at ORUCC with the wider church community. I'm excited! I hope that you all will be able to join in. Josie, Jadyn, and Lily are providing some special music, too. 
Reminder, NO confirmation this week (but you have an opportunity to fill out TWO worship notes on the 17th if you are feeling ambitious! ;). We will resume in earnest on April 7. 
Grace and peace,
Kate

—

Rev. Kate Mackey
(she/her/hers)
Associate Pastor for Children, Youth, and Families
Orchard Ridge UCC
1501 Gilbert Rd.
Madison, WI 53711
Office: (608) 271-7212 ex. 2030
“If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to one another.” -Mother Teresa 

*Please note: I take Fridays and Saturdays as sabbath days and may not respond immediately to my email during those times. 

3/17 Music Connections

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 14, 2024

This week the children will begin the 10 o'clock hour in the sanctuary with you. When they are dismissed for Music Connections, we will move to the downstairs Bonhoeffer Room for movement and movement. The children have already started crafting their next project: Guided Meditation and Reflective Music. Two weeks ago, the children composed a beautiful guided meditation. This week, we'll begin to work on the accompanying music. Bethany S. will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer. 

No Music Connections 3/24 and 3/31. 

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children's Education Coordinator
Children's Music Director

ORUCC Java & Jesus, March 17th, 9 am (In-person or by Zoom)

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 14, 2024

Java & Jesus

Sunday, March 17, at 9 am

Attend in-person at the church in the

Alfred Swan Room, or attend remotely

by Zoom

Dick Rossmiller facilitating

All are welcome!

Join us even if this is your first time!

Please read ahead of time and come prepared to discuss an article by John Shelby Spong, “The Connection Between the Crucifixion and the Passover.”

Click here for reading

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

 Click here to join Zoom discussion

Or paste the following into your browser:  

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83649436657?pwd=R2hVU0drV1N2VTZlMVJoRmI4K2VtUT09

To join Zoom discussion by phone: 1 312 626 6799

Meeting ID: 836 4943 6657

Passcode: 315584

If you have difficulty accessing the Zoom discussion,

phone Ken Pennings at 608-556-2371
Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, www.orucc.org, Madison, WI 53711

ORUCC Weekly Announcements for March 14

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 14, 2024

Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice

Week at a Glance March 14

Sunday, March 17

9:00 am – Children and Youth School Sunday School – Education Wing

9:00 am – For Adults – Java & Jesus – Alfred Swan Room

10:00 am Worship

Sermon: Rev. Dr. Julia Burkey

Lay Liturgist: Lauren Amburn

Music: Choir

11:15 am Sermon Talk Back

1:30 pm Pastor Kate Installation

3:30 pm-No Confirmation Session-Lower Level

Care of Creation

Tuesday, March19

7:00 – 8:30 pm

Zoom

Jill Westberg

Wayfinding

Wednesday, March 20

9:30 am

Friendship Hall

Choir Practice

Wednesday, March 13

7:00 – 8:30 pm

Church

New Members Welcome

Meditation Group

Thursday, March 14

8:30 – 9:30 am

Oscar Romero Room

Sue Dixon 

Wayfinding

Thursday, March 21

4:00 – 5:15 pm

Zoom

Julia

Meditation Group

Friday, March 22

9:30 am – 10:30 am

Sue Dixon

Zoom

MARCH COMPASSION OFFERING

Just Dane (formerly MUM)

JustDane(formerly Madison-area Urban Ministry), is a non-profit organization that offers an array of direct supportive initiatives for:

  • people being released from incarceration through our reentry programs, including the Journey Home, Circles of Support and Peer Support,
  • children and families impacted by the justice system,
  • justice-involved youth,
  • employment training for people with barriers to employment through Just Bakery,
  • recuperative medical respite for families experiencing homelessness at Healing House.

In 2023 over 750 individuals received support through JustDane’s initiatives.

This year JustDane celebrates 50 years of social justice work in our community. Throughout our 50 years JustDane has, and continues to engage in the community advocating for State and local justice system reforms, fair and affordable housing, an end to homelessness and racial and economic justice. Rev. William Sloane Coffin once said, “charity yes, always, but never as a substitute for justice.” His words reflect the importance of our work at JustDane offering support to individuals and families in our community, alleviating suffering while working to eliminate the causes of the suffering.

 VIDEO

 Thank you for giving generously

You can make a donation by check, on the memo line, please write “compassion” and mail to ORUCC, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711,

or donate online from our website. The link is https://orucc.org/contribute/support/

If you’d like to know more about JustDane’s work, there are two members of ORUCC on JustDane’s Board: Julie Horst and Phil Haslanger. They would be happy to share more about JustDane’s work in our community. We also invite you to join us on Thursday, April 11th as we celebrate 50 years. Our keynote speaker for the event will be Father Boyle, Founder of Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles. (Use QR code below for tickets to the April 11th Father Boyle event.)

Pastor Kate’s Installation Service

Sunday March 17, 1:30 p.m. Wisconsin UCC Southwest Association members along with our congregation will formally install Kate as our Associate Pastor. All are welcome for this special celebration, followed by a cake reception! Clergy are invited to robe with red or rainbow stoles.

Thank you! TRU Function Drum Set

TRU Function would like to share a heartfelt “thank you” for the congregation’s support in purchasing a new drum set. We’ll look forward to seeing it in worship on Palm Sunday, March 24! You can still contribute by check or ONLINE.

Welcome to Lent at ORUCC! Our theme this year for Lent, inspired by one of the most popular and loved topic of Wayfinding: Soul Tasks of Aging, last year, is “‘Fear not!’ Becoming Death Doulas”

On March 17th we will visit with the death doula women in the Bible who anointed the body of Jesus and think together about end of life rituals.

On March 24th we follow Jesus into Palm Sunday, with the triumphant waving of palm branches, and we will think about Jesus’ call to justice, and how death work can be justice work- and learn about green burials.

On Easter March 31st we will gather both at sunrise with brunch following and at 10am for a joyous celebration of the resurrection, the mystery at the heart of Christianity, that even in the face of death, God dreams and births new life. Perhaps the call of a death doula is to become midwives to the resurrection.

Maundy Thursday Meals in Homes

Might you be interested in attending a Maundy Thursday meal in a home on March 28th? All meals will be 6-8 pm except the Burkey/Cooperrider meal which will be 5-7 pm.

Both Pastors Julia and Ken will be hosting dinners along with 3 others!

In the past, the host has provided a Middle Eastern main dish, and has either invited the guests to bring side dishes to share or to bring a favorite beverage (e.g. wine). Your host will be in touch with you about this. Be sure to let your host know if you have any dietary restrictions.

If you have trouble with this online signup tool, there will be signup sheets on the table in the Crossroads the next three Sundays. Or you can contact Ken Pennings to let him know which host you’ve chosen ([email protected] or 608-556-2371).

After supper, your group will share in a brief litany of Communion remembering Jesus’ last supper with his disciples in an upper room in Jerusalem.

Click here to sign up

FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2024

7:00 PM

GOOD FRIDAY TENEBRAE

ORCHARD RIDGE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

and

MADISON MENNONITE CHURCH

TENEBRAE takes its name from the “Darkness (tenebrae) which covered the whole earth when they crucified Jesus” (Matthew 27:45). This candlelight service of scripture, music, and silent prayer includes the gradual extinguishing of candles and a loud, sustained noise—reminiscent of the earthquake when Jesus died on the Cross (Matthew 27:51). This year, as the Passion (John 18:1 to 19:43) is proclaimed, the Cross will be turned to each of the Four Directions.

We are invited to enter more deeply into the mystery of the cross on which Jesus stretched out his arms in all-inclusive love and breathed forth his indomitable Spirit into a world gasping for life. With the cross, we join him in proclaiming freedom, flourishing and fullness of life to the whole world.

Confirmation 2024

Confirmation will be offered this spring for all youth in 7th-9th grade who have not yet been confirmed. This is a special time in the life of our young people where they will be invited to explore their own faith, and learn and grow together! NO class March 17, 24, or 31. Classes will resume on April 7th, 3:30-5:30 p.m., with Confirmation Sunday on Pentecost, May 20th.

Each Sunday there will be a poster in Friendship Hall with the question or idea that the youth are considering that week. You are invited to share a brief note or phrase about what that topic means to you. We will bring the congregation’s thoughts into our confirmation conversation!

We would love to have you at the all-ages, rescheduled All Church Retreat in April at Daycholah Center!

If you’d like to join for the whole weekend, the cost is $200 for adults (12+) and $140 for children (6-11, children under 5 are free). This includes lodging for two nights, dinner Friday night, three meals Saturday and one meal Sunday morning. The church is able to supplement part of the weekend financially from our budget, which is already reflected in the cost.

 

We have partial and full scholarships available, so please reach out to us if financial help would make this more accessible for your family, or if you’d like to pay extra to sponsor someone anonymously.

Register here and please pay registration fees on the church website.

 

Here are some FAQ for our retreat:

Who are our retreat leaders? And what are we doing?

Pastor Kate & Pastor Julia are coordinating a wonderful time with games, fun, and wandering the grounds in between thoughtful programming, delicious meals and plenty of down time to read and relax.

Our Saturday morning retreat leader is The Rev. Kirsten Worzala-Dumke, Chaplain at UW Carbonne Cancer Center and former pastor of Parroquia Santa Maria (a Spanish-language congregation associated with Luther Memorial Church ELCA). Kirsten is also a trusted friend of Pastor Kate.

After some free time, Saturday afternoon will include Wild Church with Pastor Julia’s spouse Daniel Cooperrider around the fire.

Leslie Linser will offer an opportunity for all-abilities Yoga on Saturday evening.

Sunday morning will close with worship facilitated by Pastor Kate & Pastor Julia.

Will this be super fun? Yes definitely!

What is the sleeping situation? If you have specific questions reach out to our wonderful Daycholah coordinator Kaitlyn: [email protected]

Some rooms are private and some are shared, and if you’d like to request a private room please reach out. The facilities have twin size mattresses and you will need to bring bedding.

If I do register, what should I bring?

Sleeping bag or warm blanket & sheets and pillows for a twin size bed.

Towels and toiletries.

Warm outdoor clothes and rain boots.

Cozy indoor clothes and indoor shoes.

Is Daycholah accessible? Yes! They have accessible rooms as well and an elevator in the dining hall building. They also have a golf cart that could be used for traversing Daycholah.

 

While is no way we could say there are no trip or fall hazards (Daycholah is built into a large hill, and there is always a risk of ice and bad weather in April) Daycholah staff will do everything they can to assist with any guest needs. If there are specific requests, please know we will do our very best to accommodate.

For other questions related to the facilities, meals, and lodging, contact Kaitlyn: [email protected]

 

Here are the registration links again:

REGISTRATION FORM

PAYMENT SITE

 

We cannot wait to share time with you in the New Year!

 

Julia & Kate

Volunteers requested for Neighborhood Initiative

ORUCC is invited to partner with Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (GSLC) and Joining Forces for Families (JFF) to pilot a Housing Navigator resource for people in our Madison Southwest neighborhood. We are looking for 4 volunteers who would be willing to work with individuals experiencing challenges finding housing. JFF and other neighborhood agencies conduct a walk-in Job Shop at Meadowood Center every Wednesday morning 9-12noon for neighbors in the Southwest area looking to find a new or better job. Support services each Wednesday include social workers, Center staff, UW students for resume writing, and more. Large tables with computers provided, lend ample space for work with individuals. This is a comfortable and supportive team environment for those needing assistance in job hunting to ensure family stability and housing security. 

If you are interested in becoming a Housing Navigator volunteer for this new initiative, you will receive in-person training.  You will become part of a team to make a real difference in people’s lives in our church neighborhood.

If you are interested in working on this exciting pilot program, please contact:

Rick Thomas

Outreach Director

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

608-212-7582 or [email protected]

Spiritual

Nourishment

for you!

For the week of March 14 – March 20

 

Read this week’s reflections as a way to dive deeper into your spiritual practice or to get some nourishment and inspiration

for your day.



Click Here for Reflections

 

We are grateful for the ministry of Jeanne Moberly who is a member of Adult Faith Formation, as she puts together a set of fresh readings every week for our devotional practice at Orchard Ridge UCC. You will see these posted daily if you are part of the “Members & Friends” Facebook group. If you know someone who needs encouragement and would like the devotional mailed to them, please contact Julie Wombacher in the church office.

Great Progress Being Made Creating Quilts for Gaza



By Zoom on Thursdays: 04:00 PM Central Time

  

  

    Mar 21, 2024 04:00 PM

    Apr 18, 2024 04:00 PM

    May 16, 2024 04:00 PM

Click here to join Zoom meeting



us02web.zoom.us/j/87998025473?pwd=dEEzcFkvSnBNdzNUaE5BK2RxUDZqZz09

Meeting ID: 879 9802 5473

Passcode: 573548

Dial in

1 312 626 6799 US 

There is a new campaign to raise $200,000 to rebuild and strengthen the 17 lakeside cabins at Moon Beach, a place that has been a source of renewal for so many of us over the years.  Here’s a little more background from the folks at Moon Beach:

“The foundations, crafted decades ago with cinder blocks, stumps, and pine posts now require restoration to ensure their longevity and stability against the elements. By repairing and restoring the foundations with a firm footing for the footprint and base of the cabins, we can ensure their stability and compliance with regulatory standards, allowing us to maintain them for generations to come.”

With a matching grant already announced, the goal is to raise $100,000 that would then net the campaign $200,000. For those of us at ORUCC who love Moon Beach and who have the ability to give, thank you for your consideration.  Click here to donate.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT!

Pastor Julia–Fear Not! Becoming Death Doulas Feb 18 Click Here

Pastor Ken–Fear Not, Life is Good March 10 Click Here

Sign Up Now Through the End of June 2024!

AT ORUCC, the Members are the Ministers!

We are seeking volunteers to serve on Sunday mornings for in-person worship. You need not be a member, simply a person who loves ORUCC and is eager to find a place to serve!

Young people are welcome to sign up too!

Would you consider serving one or more times as

a Coffee Maker, a Welcomer, a Lay Liturgist or

to assist with Holy Communion?

Feel free to sign up as an individual, a couple, or a family!

Click here to sign up as a Coffee Maker

Click here to sign up as a Welcomer

Click here to sign up as a Lay Liturgist

Click here to assist with Holy Communion

After selecting one or more dates, you will need to click “Submit and Sign Up” at the bottom of the page, then enter your name & email address, then click “Sign Up Now.”

Questions or problems signing up?

Contact Ken Pennings at [email protected] or 608-556-2371.

Office Manager Julie Wombacher

available Mon.-Thurs. 8:30am -12:00 pm

by appointment

608-271-7212 or EMAIL

Senior Pastor Julia Burkey available

Tues.- Fri. & Sun. 9:00 am – 7:00 pm

by appointment

518-542-6915 EMAIL

Associate Pastor Ken Pennings: available

Tues.-Thurs. 10:00 am -5:00 pm 

by appointment

608-556-2371 EMAIL

Associate Pastor Kate Mackey: available

Mon.-Thurs. 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

by appointment

608-358-6143 EMAIL

Julia and Ken (try to) take Monday & Saturday as Sabbath days,

Kate Friday and Saturday

Friday is observed as a writing day for the preaching pastor.

In case of a pastoral emergency, please call any of the pastors, as all pastors are available by phone, text and we will always have a pastor on call who we can turn to.

LIKE or FOLLOW the Orchard Ridge FaceBook Page

JOIN our Private FB Group:

“Members & Friends of Orchard Ridge UCC“

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

1501 Gilbert Road

Madison, WI 53711

608-271-7212

Office Hours: M-Th 8:30-12:30
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Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

Pastor Kate’s Installation Service

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 13, 2024

 

Pastor Kate’s Installation Service

Sunday March 17, 1:30 p.m.

Wisconsin Conference UCC

Southwest Association members,

along with our congregation, will formally install

Rev. Kate Mackey as an Associate Pastor

at Orchard Ridge UCC.

All are welcome for this special celebration,

followed by a light reception!



Clergy are invited to robe with red or rainbow stoles.
 
 
 
Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

3/17 Sunday School

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 13, 2024

This week…


8:30 Nursery Care: Jade and Marcia will be available for childcare in the nursery. 

Sunday School starts at 9 am. PreK-1st grade children are invited to sing with Julie in the Johnson room from 9:00-9:15. After the music, Karen and Josie will guide the children in the Lenten stories, “Too Afraid to Follow Jesus” and “Jesus' Trial.”

The 2-5 grade classroom will continue their study of the season of Lent. This week, the children will learn about Palm Sunday to prepare them for next week.  Stations will include sand, several art opportunities, and puzzles. We'll close with a visual meditation by viewing art inspired by Jesus' arrival in Jerusalem. Joanna and Jadyn will guide the children in their learning in the Bridges Room. Be sure to pop by the Bridges Room to share your thoughts on “How We Can Make The World A Better Place.” Please add your ideas to the sign on the door. Everyone in our community is welcome to contribute. 
Looking ahead: 
March 17: Pastor Kate's Installation 1:30
March 24: Palm Sunday (no regular Sunday school)
March 28: Maundy Thursday Dinners (sign up here)
March 29 Good Friday Tenebrae 7:00 p.m.
March 31 Easter: (no regular Sunday school)
     6:30 a.m. Sunrise service, followed by brunch
     10:00 a.m. Easter Worship, followed by egg hunt

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children's Education Coordinator
Children's Music Director

ORUCC Worship Resources for Sunday, March 10th, 2024

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 9, 2024

Orchard Ridge

United Church of Christ

Sunday Worship Resources

Sunday, March 10, 2024

Lent 4

Don’t forget to set your clocks ahead one hour!

9:00 am Sunday School for children & youth

9:00 am Java & Jesus for Adults

Alfred Swan Room

10:00 am Worship

Sermon: Ken Pennings

“Fear Not! Life is Good!”

Lay Liturgist: Manuel Ramminger

Music: Hand Bell Choir

Guitar/Vocals: John Leonard

Click here for at-home bulletin

Join our Worship virtually

on YouTube any time after 10 am:

YouTube Link

You will need to refresh the page

after 10 am if you have opened it before

For Children & Youth – March 10th

Children

8:30 am Jade will be available in Crossroads for Supported Childcare. 

Sunday School starts at 9 am. PreK-1st grade children are invited to join Jill and Josie in the Johnson room for singing followed by the stories, “The Gift of the Poor Widow” and “A Woman Anoints Jesus for Burial.”

The 2-5 grade classroom will continue their study of the season of Lent. This week, the children will learn about the Last Supper and the ritual of Communion.  Stations will include sand, several art opportunities, and puzzles. Joanna and Jadyn will guide the children in their learning. Be sure to pop by the Bridges Room to share your thoughts on “How We Can Make The World A Better Place.” Please add your ideas to the sign on the door. Everyone in our community is welcome to contribute. 

Looking ahead: 

3/17: Pastor Kate’s Installation Ceremony

3/24: No Sunday School. Stay tuned for info about an intergenerational coloring opportunity. 

3/31: Easter Sunday! No Sunday School. 

Youth

On Sunday, March 10th, at 9 am. our youth will meet in the Day room for Breakfast Club with Kate and Kristin. TRU Function practices from 10:00-12:00. Confirmation will meet in the downstairs Brown Room from 3:30-5:30. 

Some fun things coming up:

  • We are looking for youth to help stuff eggs for the Easter egg hunt! This will happen after worship on Sunday 3/17, with pizza lunch provided. Stay for Pastor Kate’s installation service at 1:30! Contact Paul Vash ([email protected]) for more info.
  • Older youth: Would you be willing to help set up and coordinate the egg hunt on Easter Sunday? Talk to Pastor Kate.
  • Registration has re-opened for our RESCHEDULED All-Church retreat, April 12-14! We are looking forward to enjoying the springtime weather up at Daycholah. If you had signed up in January, and you are still planning to attend, you do not need to re-register. If you couldn’t come in January, but you can now, please sign up here! 

Mark your calendars:

March 17: After Worship Easter Egg filling and pizza, Pastor Kate’s Installation 1:30

March 24: Palm Sunday (no regular Sunday school)

March 29 Good Friday Tenebrae 7:00 p.m.

March 31 Easter: (no regular Sunday school)

   6:30 a.m. Sunrise service, followed by brunch

   10:00 a.m. Easter Worship, followed by egg hunt

Java & Jesus

Sunday, March 10,

at 9 am

Attend in-person at the church in the

Alfred Swan Room, or attend remotely

by Zoom

Jim McNamara facilitating

All are welcome!

Join us even if this is your first time!

Please read ahead of time and come prepared to discuss the recent AP article from the State Journal, “Is the US a Christian Nation?” 

Click here for reading

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

 Click here to join Zoom discussion

Or paste the following into your browser:  

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83649436657?pwd=R2hVU0drV1N2VTZlMVJoRmI4K2VtUT09

To join Zoom discussion by phone: 1 312 626 6799

Meeting ID: 836 4943 6657

Passcode: 315584

If you have difficulty accessing the Zoom discussion,

phone Ken Pennings at 608-556-2371

MARCH COMPASSION OFFERING

JustDane (formerly Madison-area Urban Ministry), is a non-profit organization that offers an array of direct supportive initiatives for:

  • people being released from incarceration through our reentry programs, including the Journey Home, Circles of Support and Peer Support,
  • children and families impacted by the justice system,
  • justice-involved youth,
  • employment training for people with barriers to employment through Just Bakery,
  • recuperative medical respite for families experiencing homelessness at Healing House.

In 2023 over 750 individuals received support through JustDane’s initiatives.

This year JustDane celebrates 50 years of social justice work in our community. Throughout our 50 years JustDane has, and continues to engage in the community advocating for State and local justice system reforms, fair and affordable housing, an end to homelessness and racial and economic justice. Rev. William Sloane Coffin once said, “charity yes, always, but never as a substitute for justice.” His words reflect the importance of our work at JustDane offering support to individuals and families in our community, alleviating suffering while working to eliminate the causes of the suffering.



 VIDEO

 Thank you for giving generously

You can make a donation by check, on the memo line, please write “compassion” and mail to ORUCC, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711,

or donate online from our website. 

Office Manager Julie Wombacher

Mon.-Thurs. 8:30am -12:00 pm

608-271-7212 or EMAIL

Senior Pastor: Rev. Dr. Julia Burkey

EMAIL

Associate Pastor: Rev. Kate Mackey EMAIL

Associate Pastor: Rev. Ken Pennings

EMAIL

Children’s Education Coordinator & Music Director: Julie Mazer EMAIL



LIKE or FOLLOW the Orchard Ridge Facebook Page

JOIN our Private FB Group:

“Members & Friends of Orchard Ridge UCC“

Follow us on Instagram @orchardridgeucc
Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

ORUCC — March Lunch & Learn

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 8, 2024

Lunch and Learn

(formerly Over 55)

March 13, 11:30

 

Lunch and Learn

Wednesday, March 13th, 11:30 

 

Our program for March will be presented by Ann Albert, Executive Director AgeBetter.org.  That organization has created Sharing Active Independent Lives (SAIL).

 

SAIL IS sharing active independent lives… each and every day. The SAIL staff cherishes senior members’ experiences, wisdom, and unique talents. They form a vibrant community where support, learning, and togetherness thrive. SAIL provides an array of services designed to protect independence and encourage connections—most of which were created or inspired by members. Members volunteer to help one another and the organization.



We gather on Wednesday the 13th at 11:30, dine from a wonderful buffet at 11:45, ($10 per person) and adjourn for the program at 12:30.  Please RSVP to Steve Sheets: [email protected].  
Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

ORUCC Youth March 10

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 7, 2024

Hello friends,

Don't forget to “spring ahead” with your clocks this weekend!
On Sunday, our youth will meet in the Day room for Breakfast Club with Kate and Kristin. TRU Function practices from 10:00-12:00. Confirmation will meet in the downstairs Brown Room from 3:30-5:30. 
Some fun things coming up:
  • We are looking for youth to help stuff eggs for the Easter egg hunt! This will happen after worship on Sunday 3/17, with pizza lunch provided. Stay for Pastor Kate's installation service at 1:30! Contact Paul Vash ([email protected])  for more info.
  • Older youth: Would you be willing to help set up and coordinate the egg hunt on Easter Sunday? Talk to Pastor Kate.
  • Registration has re-opened for our RESCHEDULED All-Church retreat, April 12-14! We are looking forward to enjoying the springtime weather up at Daycholah. If you had signed up in January, and you are still planning to attend, you do not need to re-register. If you couldn't come in January, but you can now, please sign up here! 
Mark your calendars:
March 17: After Worship Easter Egg filling and pizza, Pastor Kate's Installation 1:30
March 24: Palm Sunday (no regular Sunday school)
March 28: Maundy Thursday Dinners (sign up here)
March 29 Good Friday Tenebrae 7:00 p.m.
March 31 Easter: (no regular Sunday school)
     6:30 a.m. Sunrise service, followed by brunch
     10:00 a.m. Easter Worship, followed by egg hunt
Grace and peace,
Kate

—

Rev. Kate Mackey
(she/her/hers)
Associate Pastor for Children, Youth, and Families
Orchard Ridge UCC
1501 Gilbert Rd.
Madison, WI 53711
Office: (608) 271-7212 ex. 2030
“If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to one another.” -Mother Teresa 

*Please note: I take Fridays and Saturdays as sabbath days and may not respond immediately to my email during those times. 

ORUCC Weekly Announcements for March 7

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 7, 2024

Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice

Week at a Glance March 7

Tonight, March 7–Movie Group

7:30–Oakwood Village

Saturday, March 9

2:00 pm Tony Holt’s Memorial Service

1:00 Visitation

Sunday, March 10

9:00 am – PreK-5 Grade Sunday School; Youth Breakfast Club – Education Wing

9:00 am – For Adults – Java & Jesus – Alfred Swan Room

10:00 am Worship

Sermon: Ken Pennings

Lay Liturgist: Manuel Ramminger

Music: Hand Bell Choir

11:15 NO Sermon Talk Back

11:15 Landscape Planning Committee

3:30 pm-Confirmation Session-Lower Level

Men’s Group

Monday, March 11

7:15 – 8:30 pm

Oscar Romero Room

Leadership Team

Tuesday, March12

6:00 – 7:30 pm

Zoom

Deanna Blanchard

Lunch & Learn

Wednesday, March 13

11:30 am

Friendship Hall

The Ministry of Resources

Wednesday, March 13

6:00 – 7:30 pm

Zoom

Jon Blanchard

Choir Practice

Wednesday, March 13

7:00 – 8:30 pm

Church

New Members Welcome

Meditation Group

Thursday, March 14

8:30 – 9:30 am

Oscar Romero Room

Sue Dixon 

Racial Justice Mission Team Meeting

Thursday, March 14

9:00 – 10:30 am

Zoom

Pam Oliver

The Ministry of Christian Witness & Service

Thursday, March 14

6:30 – 8:00 pm

Alfred Swan Room

LuAnn Greiner

Meditation Group

Friday, March 15

9:30 am – 10:30 am

Sue Dixon

Zoom

MARCH COMPASSION OFFERING

Just Dane (formerly MUM)

JustDane(formerly Madison-area Urban Ministry), is a non-profit organization that offers an array of direct supportive initiatives for:

  • people being released from incarceration through our reentry programs, including the Journey Home, Circles of Support and Peer Support,
  • children and families impacted by the justice system,
  • justice-involved youth,
  • employment training for people with barriers to employment through Just Bakery,
  • recuperative medical respite for families experiencing homelessness at Healing House.

In 2023 over 750 individuals received support through JustDane’s initiatives.

This year JustDane celebrates 50 years of social justice work in our community. Throughout our 50 years JustDane has, and continues to engage in the community advocating for State and local justice system reforms, fair and affordable housing, an end to homelessness and racial and economic justice. Rev. William Sloane Coffin once said, “charity yes, always, but never as a substitute for justice.” His words reflect the importance of our work at JustDane offering support to individuals and families in our community, alleviating suffering while working to eliminate the causes of the suffering.

 VIDEO

 Thank you for giving generously

You can make a donation by check, on the memo line, please write “compassion” and mail to ORUCC, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711,

or donate online from our website. The link is https://orucc.org/contribute/support/

If you’d like to know more about JustDane’s work, there are two members of ORUCC on JustDane’s Board: Julie Horst and Phil Haslanger. They would be happy to share more about JustDane’s work in our community. We also invite you to join us on Thursday, April 11th as we celebrate 50 years. Our keynote speaker for the event will be Father Boyle, Founder of Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles. (Use QR code below for tickets to the April 11th Father Boyle event.)

Free Lawn Signs

Ramadan begins this Sunday night, March 10th. Pick up a free lawn sign at the church this Sunday morning to show support for the Muslim community.

Thank you! TRU Function Drum Set

TRU Function would like to share a heartfelt “thank you” for the congregation’s support in purchasing a new drum set. We’ll look forward to seeing it in worship on Palm Sunday, March 24! You can still contribute by check or ONLINE.

Welcome to Lent at ORUCC! Our theme this year for Lent, inspired by one of the most popular and loved topic of Wayfinding: Soul Tasks of Aging, last year, is “‘Fear not!’ Becoming Death Doulas”

March 10th will lead us into the Biblical mantra of “fear not!” repeated by angels and psalmists and prophets throughout scripture.

On March 17th we will visit with the death doula women in the Bible who anointed the body of Jesus and think together about end of life rituals.

On March 24th we follow Jesus into Palm Sunday, with the triumphant waving of palm branches, and we will think about Jesus’ call to justice, and how death work can be justice work- and learn about green burials.

On Easter March 31st we will gather both at sunrise with brunch following and at 10am for a joyous celebration of the resurrection, the mystery at the heart of Christianity, that even in the face of death, God dreams and births new life. Perhaps the call of a death doula is to become midwives to the resurrection.

Maundy Thursday Meals in Homes

Might you be interested in attending a Maundy Thursday meal in a home on March 28th? All meals will be 6-8 pm except the Burkey/Cooperrider meal which will be 5-7 pm.

Both Pastors Julia and Ken will be hosting dinners along with 3 others!

In the past, the host has provided a Middle Eastern main dish, and has either invited the guests to bring side dishes to share or to bring a favorite beverage (e.g. wine). Your host will be in touch with you about this. Be sure to let your host know if you have any dietary restrictions.

If you have trouble with this online signup tool, there will be signup sheets on the table in the Crossroads the next three Sundays. Or you can contact Ken Pennings to let him know which host you’ve chosen ([email protected] or 608-556-2371).

After supper, your group will share in a brief litany of Communion remembering Jesus’ last supper with his disciples in an upper room in Jerusalem.

Click here to sign up

FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2024

7:00 PM

GOOD FRIDAY TENEBRAE

ORCHARD RIDGE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

and

MADISON MENNONITE CHURCH

TENEBRAE takes its name from the “Darkness (tenebrae) which covered the whole earth when they crucified Jesus” (Matthew 27:45). This candlelight service of scripture, music, and silent prayer includes the gradual extinguishing of candles and a loud, sustained noise—reminiscent of the earthquake when Jesus died on the Cross (Matthew 27:51). This year, as the Passion (John 18:1 to 19:43) is proclaimed, the Cross will be turned to each of the Four Directions.

We are invited to enter more deeply into the mystery of the cross on which Jesus stretched out his arms in all-inclusive love and breathed forth his indomitable Spirit into a world gasping for life. With the cross, we join him in proclaiming freedom, flourishing and fullness of life to the whole world.

Landscape Planning Committee 

March 10 following services

Friendship Hall

 A few years ago we had a big project to install the patio to the north of the church and to revamp the entrance garden beside the the parking lot. We have more areas around the church that need restoration and upgrading.

We would like to get input from all the plant lovers in the congregation to decide what to replace and enhance. We want to maintain gathering spaces for outdoor worship and places for children to run and play. We also want to incorporate low maintenance and earth friendly plantings in the landscape (ie, more native areas). 

If you have ideas, please bring them to a meeting after service on,Sunday, March 10 to talk about the landscape. I hope we can enjoy new plantings this season. Please contact Joyce Pohl at [email protected] about joining this group. 

Confirmation 2024

Confirmation will be offered this spring for all youth in 7th-9th grade who have not yet been confirmed. This is a special time in the life of our young people where they will be invited to explore their own faith, and learn and grow together! Classes will begin on March 10th, 3:30-5:30, with Confirmation Sunday on Pentecost, May 20th.

Each Sunday there will be a poster in Friendship Hall with the question or idea that the youth are considering that week. You are invited to share a brief note or phrase about what that topic means to you. We will bring the congregation’s thoughts into our confirmation conversation!

We would love to have you at the all-ages, rescheduled All Church Retreat in April at Daycholah Center!

If you’d like to join for the whole weekend, the cost is $200 for adults (12+) and $140 for children (6-11, children under 5 are free). This includes lodging for two nights, dinner Friday night, three meals Saturday and one meal Sunday morning. The church is able to supplement part of the weekend financially from our budget, which is already reflected in the cost.

 

We have partial and full scholarships available, so please reach out to us if financial help would make this more accessible for your family, or if you’d like to pay extra to sponsor someone anonymously.

Register here and please pay registration fees on the church website.

 

Here are some FAQ for our retreat:

Who are our retreat leaders? And what are we doing?

Pastor Kate & Pastor Julia are coordinating a wonderful time with games, fun, and wandering the grounds in between thoughtful programming, delicious meals and plenty of down time to read and relax.

Our Saturday morning retreat leader is The Rev. Kirsten Worzala-Dumke, Chaplain at UW Carbonne Cancer Center and former pastor of Parroquia Santa Maria (a Spanish-language congregation associated with Luther Memorial Church ELCA). Kirsten is also a trusted friend of Pastor Kate.

After some free time, Saturday afternoon will include Wild Church with Pastor Julia’s spouse Daniel Cooperrider around the fire.

Leslie Linser will offer an opportunity for all-abilities Yoga on Saturday evening.

Sunday morning will close with worship facilitated by Pastor Kate & Pastor Julia.

Will this be super fun? Yes definitely!

What is the sleeping situation? If you have specific questions reach out to our wonderful Daycholah coordinator Kaitlyn: [email protected]

Some rooms are private and some are shared, and if you’d like to request a private room please reach out. The facilities have twin size mattresses and you will need to bring bedding.

If I do register, what should I bring?

Sleeping bag or warm blanket & sheets and pillows for a twin size bed.

Towels and toiletries.

Warm outdoor clothes and rain boots.

Cozy indoor clothes and indoor shoes.

Is Daycholah accessible? Yes! They have accessible rooms as well and an elevator in the dining hall building. They also have a golf cart that could be used for traversing Daycholah.

 

While is no way we could say there are no trip or fall hazards (Daycholah is built into a large hill, and there is always a risk of ice and bad weather in April) Daycholah staff will do everything they can to assist with any guest needs. If there are specific requests, please know we will do our very best to accommodate.

For other questions related to the facilities, meals, and lodging, contact Kaitlyn: [email protected]

 

Here are the registration links again:

REGISTRATION FORM

PAYMENT SITE

 

We cannot wait to share time with you in the New Year!

 

Julia & Kate

Volunteers requested for Neighborhood Initiative

ORUCC is invited to partner with Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (GSLC) and Joining Forces for Families (JFF) to pilot a Housing Navigator resource for people in our Madison Southwest neighborhood. We are looking for 4 volunteers who would be willing to work with individuals experiencing challenges finding housing. JFF and other neighborhood agencies conduct a walk-in Job Shop at Meadowood Center every Wednesday morning 9-12noon for neighbors in the Southwest area looking to find a new or better job. Support services each Wednesday include social workers, Center staff, UW students for resume writing, and more. Large tables with computers provided, lend ample space for work with individuals. This is a comfortable and supportive team environment for those needing assistance in job hunting to ensure family stability and housing security. 

If you are interested in becoming a Housing Navigator volunteer for this new initiative, you will receive in-person training.  You will become part of a team to make a real difference in people’s lives in our church neighborhood.

If you are interested in working on this exciting pilot program, please contact:

Rick Thomas

Outreach Director

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

608-212-7582 or [email protected]

Spiritual

Nourishment

for you!

For the week of March 7 – March 13

 

Read this week’s reflections as a way to dive deeper into your spiritual practice or to get some nourishment and inspiration

for your day.



Click Here for Reflections

 

We are grateful for the ministry of Jeanne Moberly who is a member of Adult Faith Formation, as she puts together a set of fresh readings every week for our devotional practice at Orchard Ridge UCC. You will see these posted daily if you are part of the “Members & Friends” Facebook group. If you know someone who needs encouragement and would like the devotional mailed to them, please contact Julie Wombacher in the church office.

Great Progress Being Made Creating Quilts for Gaza

Lunch and Learn

Wednesday, March 13th, 11:30 

 

Our program for March will be presented by Ann Albert, Executive Director AgeBetter.org.  That organization has created Sharing Active Independent Lives (SAIL).

SAIL IS sharing active independent lives… each and every day. The SAIL staff cherishes senior members’ experiences, wisdom, and unique talents. They form a vibrant community where support, learning, and togetherness thrive. SAIL provides an array of services designed to protect independence and encourage connections—most of which were created or inspired by members. Members volunteer to help one another and the organization.

 

We gather on Wednesday the 13th at 11:30, dine from a wonderful buffet at 11:45, ($10 per person) and adjourn for the program at 12:30.  Please RSVP to Steve Sheets: [email protected]. 

TONIGHT

“Holdovers” is our Movie Group Selection

March 7th, 7:30

Oakwood Fine Arts Auditorium

 

Sure to elicit laughter, this comedy-drama is set in 1970.  A cranky instructor (Pail Giamatti) at a New England prep school remains on campus during Christmas break to babysit a handful of students with nowhere to go. He soon forms an unlikely bond with a brainy but damaged troublemaker (Dominic Sessa), and with the school’s head cook (Da’Vine Joy Randolph), a woman who just lost a son in the Vietnam War.

 

The film has garnered five Oscar nominations; Best Picture; Best Screenplay; Best Film Editing; Best Actor, Paul Giamatti;   Best Supporting Actress, Da’Vine Joy Randolph.

 

Join us March 7th, 7:30 p.m. at Oakwood.  Discussion to follow in the Mendota room.  Questions?  Contact Steve Sheets, [email protected], or Doug Loving, [email protected]. 

Moderator Moment

Well, my first Moderator Moment and I am so happy to share what our Leadership Team is up to! On February 20 we had a mini-retreat to kick off our year! We had a meal together prior to our guest speaker and our regular meeting. For me, the highlight was the first hour we spent with ORUCC member, and professional speaker and coach, Darcy Luoma. Darcy worked through discussions and activities designed to create high performing teams.



Our group was so positively energized that we got through our meeting agenda in about two-thirds the time it would usually take and made some great decisions. One of those was a creative way to fund the purchase of a $4000 new drum set for our youth band, TRU Function. We made an appeal to the congregation this past Sunday for donations and plan to make up any shortfall with memorial funds. You are welcome to send donations to the church office. I believe this is one of the excellent ways we show our youth we appreciate them!

I am also very happy that 3 of our 10 Leadership Team members are relatively new to our congregation, as well as 14 of the 33 members on the five Ministries. I am very thankful for the energy these wonderful people have for doing God’s work in our world and I’m looking forward to a great year. Please take a few minutes to look at the Leadership Team bulletin board in the hallway near the kitchen! Talk to us about your dreams for ORUCC.

Join Beth Israel Center and Dane Sanctuary Coalition on March 10 at 7:pm

Please join Beth Israel Center and the Dane Sanctuary Coalition on March 10 at 7:00pm for a presentation from members of Beth Israel Center on their recent volunteer trips to Casa Alitas in Tucson. Throughout October, groups of volunteers from Beth Israel Center journeyed to Tucson to volunteer at Casa Alitas, a migrant welcome center. As the crisis at our border increases, the needs for help at Casa Alitas and similar migrant centers will only increase.

Join us on March 10 and hear about the volunteers’ experiences and how the trip came together. The event will be in person at Beth Israel Center, 1406 Mound St, Madison, WI 53711, and also on Zoom.

 

Please RSVP by March 8 using this google form: https://forms.gle/363KwRqsxQwyV3Q59

Rabbi Bonnie Margulis

Executive Director

Wisconsin Faith Voices for Justice

608-513-7121

Dane Sanctuary Coalition Steering Committee 



By Zoom on Thursdays: 04:00 PM Central Time

  

  

    Mar 21, 2024 04:00 PM

    Apr 18, 2024 04:00 PM

    May 16, 2024 04:00 PM

Click here to join Zoom meeting



us02web.zoom.us/j/87998025473?pwd=dEEzcFkvSnBNdzNUaE5BK2RxUDZqZz09

Meeting ID: 879 9802 5473

Passcode: 573548

Dial in

1 312 626 6799 US 

There is a new campaign to raise $200,000 to rebuild and strengthen the 17 lakeside cabins at Moon Beach, a place that has been a source of renewal for so many of us over the years.  Here’s a little more background from the folks at Moon Beach:

“The foundations, crafted decades ago with cinder blocks, stumps, and pine posts now require restoration to ensure their longevity and stability against the elements. By repairing and restoring the foundations with a firm footing for the footprint and base of the cabins, we can ensure their stability and compliance with regulatory standards, allowing us to maintain them for generations to come.”

With a matching grant already announced, the goal is to raise $100,000 that would then net the campaign $200,000. For those of us at ORUCC who love Moon Beach and who have the ability to give, thank you for your consideration.  Click here to donate.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT!

Pastor Julia–Fear Not! Becoming Death Doulas Feb 18 Click Here

Sign Up Now Through the End of June 2024!

AT ORUCC, the Members are the Ministers!

We are seeking volunteers to serve on Sunday mornings for in-person worship. You need not be a member, simply a person who loves ORUCC and is eager to find a place to serve!

Young people are welcome to sign up too!

Would you consider serving one or more times as

a Coffee Maker, a Welcomer, a Lay Liturgist or

to assist with Holy Communion?

Feel free to sign up as an individual, a couple, or a family!

Click here to sign up as a Coffee Maker

Click here to sign up as a Welcomer

Click here to sign up as a Lay Liturgist

Click here to assist with Holy Communion

After selecting one or more dates, you will need to click “Submit and Sign Up” at the bottom of the page, then enter your name & email address, then click “Sign Up Now.”

Questions or problems signing up?

Contact Ken Pennings at [email protected] or 608-556-2371.

Office Manager Julie Wombacher

available Mon.-Thurs. 8:30am -12:00 pm

by appointment

608-271-7212 or EMAIL

Senior Pastor Julia Burkey available

Tues.- Fri. & Sun. 9:00 am – 7:00 pm

by appointment

518-542-6915 EMAIL

Associate Pastor Ken Pennings: available

Tues.-Thurs. 10:00 am -5:00 pm 

by appointment

608-556-2371 EMAIL

Associate Pastor Kate Mackey: available

Mon.-Thurs. 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

by appointment

608-358-6143 EMAIL

Julia and Ken (try to) take Monday & Saturday as Sabbath days,

Kate Friday and Saturday

Friday is observed as a writing day for the preaching pastor.

In case of a pastoral emergency, please call any of the pastors, as all pastors are available by phone, text and we will always have a pastor on call who we can turn to.

LIKE or FOLLOW the Orchard Ridge FaceBook Page

JOIN our Private FB Group:

“Members & Friends of Orchard Ridge UCC“

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

1501 Gilbert Road

Madison, WI 53711

608-271-7212

Office Hours: M-Th 8:30-12:30
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Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

ORUCC Java & Jesus, March 10th, 9 am (In-person or by Zoom)

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 7, 2024

Java & Jesus

Sunday, March 10, at 9 am

Attend in-person at the church in the

Alfred Swan Room, or attend remotely

by Zoom

Jim McNamara facilitating

All are welcome!

Join us even if this is your first time!

Please read ahead of time and come prepared to discuss the recent AP article from the State Journal, “Is the US a Christian Nation?” 

Click here for reading

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

 Click here to join Zoom discussion

Or paste the following into your browser:  

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83649436657?pwd=R2hVU0drV1N2VTZlMVJoRmI4K2VtUT09

To join Zoom discussion by phone: 1 312 626 6799

Meeting ID: 836 4943 6657

Passcode: 315584

If you have difficulty accessing the Zoom discussion,

phone Ken Pennings at 608-556-2371
Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, www.orucc.org, Madison, WI 53711

3/10 – No Music Connections

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 7, 2024

There will not be Music Connections this week. All children will stay in worship. Music resumes next Sunday, March 17. 

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children's Education Coordinator
Children's Music Director

Sunday School 3/10 – Set Clocks One Hour Ahead for Daylight Savings

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 6, 2024

This week…


8:30 Jade will be available in Crossroads for Supported Childcare. 

Sunday School starts at 9 am. PreK-1st grade children are invited to join Jill and Josie in the Johnson room for singing followed by the stories, “The Gift of the Poor Widow” and “A Woman Anoints Jesus for Burial.”

The 2-5 grade classroom will continue their study of the season of Lent. This week, the children will learn about the Last Supper and the ritual of Communion.  Stations will include sand, several art opportunities, and puzzles. Joanna and Jadyn will guide the children in their learning. Be sure to pop by the Bridges Room to share your thoughts on “How We Can Make The World A Better Place.” Please add your ideas to the sign on the door. Everyone in our community is welcome to contribute. 
Looking ahead: 
3/17: Pastor Kate's Installation Ceremony
3/24: No Sunday School. Stay tuned for info about an intergenerational coloring opportunity. 
3/31: Easter Sunday! No Sunday School. 

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children's Education Coordinator
Children's Music Director

Memorial Service for Tony Holt-March 9

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 5, 2024

Our hearts are saddened by the loss of ORUCC member Tony Holt, beloved husband of Beverly Taylor. Tony lived a life of music filled with joy and emotion. The family has appreciated the love and support of friends during Tony’s struggle with dementia and through his last days.

The family appreciates your prayers during this time of grief, and invites you to a Memorial Service to celebrate Tony’s life on Saturday, March 9 at 2:00 pm at ORUCC with a visitation beginning at 1:00 pm and cookies and coffee following the service.

Obituary for

Anthony Edward “Tony” Holt

November 6, 1940 — January 12, 2024

Anthony Edward “Tony” Holt, went home to God on January 12, 2024. He was the beloved husband of his wife Beverly Taylor, father to Sarah, Julian, Peter and Joshua, brother of Michael, and a beloved friend to all who knew him. He made his fame as the “honeyed baritone” of The King’s Singers, the British six-man vocal group with whom he toured the world and made classical, folk and popular recordings from 1969-1986. 

He could be charismatic on stage, and great fun around others, because he loved people of all sorts, but he also had a quiet side, that found beauty everywhere and could spot and love details in nature and in music. He loved birds and wildlife and dogs; collecting stamps, coins and figurines; riding old steam trains; travel everywhere; writing letters and diaries; reading and creating scavenger hunts for Christmas, He loved everything French, the South Downs of England, and boats and barges. He couldn’t throw out a magazine. He loved cars and games and artwork. He loved words and always had a small Oxford Dictionary nearby. In Madison, he sang with the Madison Symphony Chorus and sometimes the Orchard Ridge Congregational church choir. He liked to cuddle with animals and humans. 

Most people lately have used the phrases “a gentle man, a loving man, a sweet man, a handsome man, a kind man.” His cousins referred to him as “our lovely cousin who was so important in our lives”. His brother referred to him as a talented and handsome man who loved others. The King’s Singers referred to his dry humor and panache on stage and what a wonderful colleague he had been. 

He went through various ups and downs and moves in his life, but more and more in later years he turned to love, openness and forgiveness, and tried for kindness and truth in all he did. His smile was infectious and he could radiate joy. 

He was born November 6, 1940 in Henley-on-Thames, England where his mother had been sent during the fighting of World War II. His first few years were in London (where he admitted later he thought it was exciting to see where the bombs landed), before the family moved to the Brighton, Sussex area. His parents, Cecil Holt and Helen Warrington Holt and his brother Michael all sang in the church choir and performed in some local theatrical skits. Tony went on to join many National Chorister groups that led him to be a singer, age 12, in Westminster Abbey for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. He attended local schools and then his beloved prep school Brighton College, where his interests were music-singing and violin, theatre, cricket and languages. He won a place at Oxford and a job singing in the Christchurch Cathedral choir. After graduation and marriage to Janette Buqué he was a freelance singer in Chichester Cathedral, and sang with the BBC Singers, before becoming the high baritone for the King’s Singers, the lone Oxfordian among 5 Cambridge singers. 

In 1987, remarried to Lynne Warfel, he moved to California and Scotland before settling in Northfield, MN. He taught part-time at St. Olaf College, had a private voice studio and helped raise two boys. In 2018, after four years a bachelor, he met, after 32 years, his friend, conductor, Beverly Taylor, who had been the King’s Singers US Agent from 1981-1987. They wed Sept. 7, 2019 and were extremely happy, despite COVID and then dementia affecting their many plans for the future. They managed to fit in a road trip or two, a reunion of the King’s Singers original singers in England, drives in the country, walks in the Arboretum, Zoo and Olbrich Gardens, church activities, dinner with friends and playing with words and funny faces.

A memorial service will be held at Orchard Ridge Congregational Church in Madison, WI on March 9, 2024 at 2 PM. Interment will be later at the Taylor family plot in Pennsylvania. A memorial service and scattering of ashes will take place in England in mid-May. 

The family is grateful for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. We would like to express gratitude to the many caregivers who helped us along the way, and for the services of Interim Hospice in Tony’s final week. In lieu of flowers, friends are asked to donate to the Audubon Society, or the Madison Symphony Chorus or Alzheimer’s Association or Orchard Ridge Church choir fund, or just share kindness with one another. 

The memorial service will be at Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711 on Saturday, March 9th at 2:00 pm. Visitation will precede the service beginning at 1:00. Cookies and coffee will be served after the service.
Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, www.orucc.org, Madison, WI 53711

ORUCC Faithful Action for Justice

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 5, 2024

 
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Faithful Action for Justice

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

March 2024

Faithful Action for Justice provides announcements and information from ORUCC’s Justice missions (Care of Creation, Immigration Justice, Heart Room, Racial Justice, Christian Witness and Service, Palestine Justice).

Nobody can do everything. Saying yes to some things requires saying no to others. Our health and obligations limit us. As you read, briefly celebrate and pray for people doing something you will not join. As you feel called, click on links or reach out to a project’s contact person to learn more.

Our justice mission teams provide information on issues that may be controversial, speaking to the congregation but not for the congregation.

In this issue

  • Updates from Palestine justice
  • Learn about April 2 ballot amendments affecting elections
  • Volunteer opportunity: Meadowood Center housing navigator
  • Updates from MOSES: Literacy curricula, ending prison lockdowns, treatment instead of prison for mental illness, report from Gamaliel
  • Reports from January 27 meeting on addressing Indigenous issues

Palestine Justice

Please continue to pray for a ceasefire in Gaza. To learn more about Palestine-Israel and our Mission Team’s activities, please visit https://orucc.org/justice/palestine. This page includes a link to Recommended Resources, including links to trustworthy news sites.

Recent updates include:

  • Quilts for Gaza – quilters, fabric donations, and shipping cost donations welcome!
  • Meet Palestinian Christian Usama Nicola on Sunday, April 7 before worship – Mark your calendar!
  • A petition sent to President Biden
  • The webinar recording from Tom and Diane’s January 3 presentation is now available. If you missed their series this summer, this is a great recap!

Constitutional amendments on April 2 primary ballot

Wisconsin Faith Voices for Justice and other organizations urge us to inform ourselves about two items on the April 2 ballot and advocate “no” votes on both. These amendments arise from disputes about the 2020 election and prohibit “outsiders” from supporting efforts to increase voter access. You can read more on Ballotopedia about the pros and cons of Question 1 here and Question 2 here. An article providing more background is here.

Volunteer with Housing Navigator Pilot Program

Our neighbor congregation, Good Shepard Lutheran Church, is partnering with Joining Forces for Families to pilot a Housing Navigator resource for people in our Madison campus neighborhood. They are looking for 3-4 volunteers who would be willing to work with individuals experiencing challenges finding housing. You would get training on how to do this and would make a real difference in people’s lives. If you are interested in working on this exciting pilot program, please contact GSLC’s Director of Outreach Rick Thomas.

News from MOSES

Quality Literacy Curricula for Children

The Racial Justice for All Children task force has been focusing on improving reading ability for all children. As part of this, it has called on MOSES members to support high-quality literacy programs based on the science of reading in a letter-writing campaign to the Wisconsin legislature’s Joint Finance committee. This nationwide movement–which has received bipartisan legislative support–arises from the widespread use of scientifically discredited teaching methods that are especially harmful for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Support letters are needed by March 5 to reaffirm last year’s decision to mandate high-quality curricula only rather a more expansive “minimum standards” list offered by the Department of Public Instruction. You can read more about this issue here.

Treatment Instead of Prisons for Mentally Ill People

Wisconsin law currently supports diversion from jail or prison to treatment programs for people with Substance Abuse Disorder, but not other mental illnesses. WISDOM and MOSES have advocated for expanding eligibility for diversion to other mental illnesses. This advocacy had overwhelming bipartisan support in the Wisconsin legislature, but speaker Vos blocked a vote on the bill. Advocacy continues. You can read more here.

End the Lockdown

MOSES and WISDOM members continue to advocate for an end to the inhumane lockdown in Wisconsin prisons due to staff shortages. A 14 minute interview with WISDOM staffer Mark Rice provides a great deal of information. Capitol Chats with WISDOM re Prison Lockdowns

You can read Gamaliel’s Annual Report for 2023, Gamaliel is the nationwide parent organization of MOSES and WISDOM.

Please contact Pam Oliver or Barbie Jackson if you would like to learn more about MOSES.

Meeting on Indigenous Issues and Building Use

On January 27, Pastor Julia led a mini-retreat to discuss possible ORUCC responses to knowing the history of the land our building is on. Several small groups discussed different themes. Here are their reports. In addition, a committee was formed to consider developing a land acknowledgement. It will report later.

Connections and Actions

(Longer notes by Tom Beilman edited by Jill Westberg)

We will connect with other religious and secular groups already at work and with local Indigenous people.

 

Examples of what is currently happening:

  • 1st Congregational, Appleton contributes money and opens their church to artisan fairs where local Indigenous artists can display and sell their art and their crafts
  • There is a group in McFarland working for the return of the Mounds in McFarland.
  • There is an interfaith group for Indigenous Justice that usually meets at McFarland U.C.C. 
  • Kerri Parker will speak there on March 5th
  • St. Dunstan’s Episcopal in Madison has established a a “voluntary land tax” given to the Ho-Chunk for use of their land. 
  • Other churches have made donations for scholarships, purchase of equipment, and “language reclamation” programs.

What we at Orchard Ridge can do:

  • Be on the lookout for lectures and tours
  • Visit Native museums and other museums with sections on Native American history
  • On-line sources including Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council and Ho-Chunk Nation
  • Books including Patty Loew’s Indian Nations of Wisconsin
  • Take the Sacred Landscape tour offered by UW-Madison Anthropology Department (Since this meeting we are on the waiting list for people 18 and up.
  • Research our land and write a Land Acknowledgment

Kerri Parker emphasized:

  • Need for humility (ask them what is needed)
  • Need to be present on an on-going basis
  • Need to build a relationship. Show up for meetings, activities, etc.
  • This is not a “pity” party
  • Gift-giving, including symbolic gifts, is important to Native Americans

Education for ourselves (Ann Haase Kehl)

Education principles to be honored in the Indigenous justice initiative: generated at discussion on Saturday, January 27, 2024

  • Acknowledge and educate ourselves about the uniqueness of the Indigenous people’s experience of injustice and profound resilience to fully inform our actions
  • Avoid creating emotional labor for Indigenous people consultants through investigation and utilization of existing programs and resources already in place, including public events
  • Support and strengthen each ORUCC initiative addressing Indigenous people injustice by providing background education material for the congregation that includes all generations

Children (John Lemke)

Broadly speaking, our focus was on the education and well being of children, both in our church and in our community. We settled on these ideas:

  • Indigenous people focus on seven generations – parents, grandparents, and great grandparents before us, and children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren after us. We agreed that this framework could help us as we consider how to do all of our work as a church.
  • The public schools are seeing the right things and focusing in the right places, but they suffer from resource constraints. Member Barbie Jackson is on the Superintendent’s Wellness Advisory group.
  • Black families still find Madison and Dane County unwelcoming
  • Connections with other churches, in spite of potentially troublesome theological differences, could be instrumental in doing effective work. Awaken Dane is a program that we might consider. 

Building Use (Pam Oliver)

We discussed past building use by community groups and what would be involved for the future. We considered the problems of sharing the building with MMC and cleaning and setup given only part-time staffing. We wondered whether community groups need spaces or whether they, too, are still slow to return to in-person gatherings. We agreed we should be open to information about needs for space. We also briefly discussed concerns about the large areas of grass on the property.

Land Acknowledgement Task Force

As a follow- up to our January 27 retreat discussion regarding justice for Indigenous Peoples, a Task Force has been charged to develop a Land Acknowledgement Statement for consideration – and ultimately a vote — by the congregation. This statement will aim to:

  • describe the history of the land used by ORUCC
  • acknowledge our nation’s and ancestors’ role in the injustices suffered by Indigenous Peoples related to the acquisition and use of this land
  • affirm commitment of ORUCC to ongoing congregation education and active engagement in Indigenous Peoples justice issues

The process of developing a Land Acknowledgment statement will involve consultation with Indigenous Peoples resources, connecting with other churches, requests for input from church members, education and listening sessions, and ultimately a vote on its adoption by the congregation.

The volunteers for the task force are David Allen, Julia Burkey, Susan Dovell, Ann Haase-Kehl, John Lemke, Kerri Parker, and Jill Westberg. 

About our Missions

Interested? Reach out to learn more about our justice teams and projects. Our mission teams welcome your time, talent and energy!

In addition, our Christian Witness and Service ministry connects members to a variety of opportunities to support justice activities (chair:LuAnn Greiner)

Let us love and care for ourselves and each other as we work together for justice and mercy.

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

ORUCC Worship Resources for Sunday, March 3rd, 2024

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 2, 2024

Orchard Ridge

United Church of Christ

Sunday Worship Resources

Sunday, March 3, 2024

Lent 3

9:00 am Sunday School

Pre-K-5th, Dancing the Labyrinth with Pastor Julia

Youth: Echo the Story, Dorothy Day Room

9:00 am Java & Jesus for Adults

Alfred Swan Room

10:00 am Worship

Sermon: Rev. Kate Mackey

“‘Jesus Wept’: When Death Isn’t Fair”

in our “Fear Not!” Becoming Death Doulas, series

Lay Liturgist: Diane Jungblut

Music: ORUCC Choir

11:15: Suicide Awareness and Prevention

You are invited to a conversation with Dr. Janine Bussa and Pastors Kate and Julia in the Oscar Romero room, as we consider how we can best understand and support one another in community.

Click here for at-home bulletin

Join our Worship virtually

on YouTube any time after 10 am:

YouTube Link

You will need to refresh the page

after 10 am if you have opened it before

For Children & Youth – March 3rd

Nursery Care opens at 8:30. Jade will provide family support for kiddos infant-5 years in the Crossroads this week.

Sunday School starts at 9 am. ALL PreK-5th grade children are invited to sing with Julie in Friendship Hall from 9:00-9:15. After the music, Pastor Julia will guide the children in a special “Dancing the Labyrinth” experience.

Be sure to pop by the Bridges Room to share your thoughts of “How We Can Make The World A Better Place.” Please add your ideas to the sign on the door. Everyone in our community is welcome to contribute. 

Music Connections: This week the children will begin the 10 o’clock hour in the sanctuary and head down to Music Connections with Julie after the Children’s Message.

Older Youth: Youth 6th-High School will meet for Echo the Story Sunday school at 9:00 in the Dorothy Day room with Kristin and Barbara. TRU Function will practice as usual 10:00-12:00. Good news! The new drum set has been purchased! Take a peek into the music room while TF is practicing if you’d like to see the new set in action. 

This Sunday at 3:30, we will also have an informational meeting for all youth of confirmation age (7th-9th grade) and their adults. We will plan to meet downstairs in the Brown Room. 

Java & Jesus

Sunday, March 3, at 9 am

Attend in-person at the church in the

Alfred Swan Room, or attend remotely

by Zoom

Peg Knueve facilitating

All are welcome!

Join us even if this is your first time!

Please read ahead of time and come prepared to discuss a chapter from Richard Rohr’s book What Do We Do With Evil?

His chapter “A Way Out and Through” explores the misunderstanding that religion can add to evil if it is only about ritual, rules and obedience. He suggests that our faith should be about the extravagant freedom to love. Rohr urges us to look at systemic causes, rather than individual acts as the only source of evil. As Rohr points out, “We need real wisdom and spiritual intelligence in attacking evil or it rebounds back on us.”

Click here for reading

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

 Click here to join Zoom discussion

Or paste the following into your browser:  

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83649436657?pwd=R2hVU0drV1N2VTZlMVJoRmI4K2VtUT09

To join Zoom discussion by phone: 1 312 626 6799

Meeting ID: 836 4943 6657

Passcode: 315584

MARCH COMPASSION OFFERING

JustDane (formerly Madison-area Urban Ministry), is a non-profit organization that offers an array of direct supportive initiatives for:

  • people being released from incarceration through our reentry programs, including the Journey Home, Circles of Support and Peer Support,
  • children and families impacted by the justice system,
  • justice-involved youth,
  • employment training for people with barriers to employment through Just Bakery,
  • recuperative medical respite for families experiencing homelessness at Healing House.

In 2023 over 750 individuals received support through JustDane’s initiatives.

This year JustDane celebrates 50 years of social justice work in our community. Throughout our 50 years JustDane has, and continues to engage in the community advocating for State and local justice system reforms, fair and affordable housing, an end to homelessness and racial and economic justice. Rev. William Sloane Coffin once said, “charity yes, always, but never as a substitute for justice.” His words reflect the importance of our work at JustDane offering support to individuals and families in our community, alleviating suffering while working to eliminate the causes of the suffering.



 VIDEO

 Thank you for giving generously

You can make a donation by check, on the memo line, please write “compassion” and mail to ORUCC, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711,

or donate online from our website. 

Office Manager Julie Wombacher

Mon.-Thurs. 8:30am -12:00 pm

608-271-7212 or EMAIL

Senior Pastor: Rev. Dr. Julia Burkey

EMAIL

Associate Pastor: Rev. Kate Mackey EMAIL

Associate Pastor: Rev. Ken Pennings

EMAIL

Children’s Education Coordinator & Music Director: Julie Mazer EMAIL



LIKE or FOLLOW the Orchard Ridge Facebook Page

JOIN our Private FB Group:

“Members & Friends of Orchard Ridge UCC“

Follow us on Instagram @orchardridgeucc
Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

March Compassion Offering: JustDane

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 1, 2024

Just Dane (formerly Madison-area Urban Ministry), is a non-profit organization that offers an array of direct supportive initiatives for:

  • people being released from incarceration through our reentry programs, including the Journey Home, Circles of Support and Peer Support,
  • children and families impacted by the justice system,
  • justice-involved youth,
  • employment training for people with barriers to employment through Just Bakery,
  • recuperative medical respite for families experiencing homelessness at Healing House.

In 2023 over 750 individuals received support through JustDane’s initiatives.

This year JustDane celebrates 50 years of social justice work in our community. Throughout our 50 years JustDane has, and continues to engage in the community advocating for State and local justice system reforms, fair and affordable housing, an end to homelessness and racial and economic justice. Rev. William Sloane Coffin once said, “charity yes, always, but never as a substitute for justice.” His words reflect the importance of our work at JustDane offering support to individuals and families in our community, alleviating suffering while working to eliminate the causes of the suffering. If you’d like to know more about JustDane’s work, there are two members of ORUCC on JustDane’s Board: Julie Horst and Phil Haslanger.  They would be happy to share more about JustDane’s work in our community. We also invite you to join us on Thursday, April 11th as we celebrate 50 years. Our keynote speaker for the event will be Father Boyle, Founder of Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles.

ORUCC Weekly Announcements for February 29

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 29, 2024

Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice

Week at a Glance February 29

Friday, March 1

8:30 Breakfast Group-Denny’s

6:00 pm Family Game Night-Friendship Hall



Sunday, March 3

9:00 am – PreK-5 Grade Labyrinth Walk in Friendship Hall; Youth Sunday School – Day Room

9:00 am – For Adults – Java & Jesus – Alfred Swan Room

10:00 am Worship

Sermon: Rev. Kate Mackey

Lay Liturgist: Diane Jungblut

Music: Choir

11:00 am Suicide Prevention Awareness-Oscar Romero Room

11:15 No Sermon Talk Back

11:15 Security Team-Alfred Swan Room

3:30 pm-Confirmation Info Session-Basement

Knitting Group

Monday, March 4

1:30 pm

Sandra Dyar

Adult Faith Formation

Tuesday, March 5

6:00 – 7:30 pm

Zoom

Leslie Linser

Choir Practice

Wednesday, March 6

7:00 – 8:30 pm

Church

New Members Welcome

Meditation Group

Thursday, March 7

8:30 – 9:30 am

Oscar Romero Room

Sue Dixon 

Women’s Book Group

Thursday, March 7

1:30 – 3:30 pm

Zoom

Deanna Blanchard

Meditation Group

Friday, March 8

9:30 am – 10:30 am

Sue Dixon

Zoom

MARCH COMPASSION OFFERING

Just Dane (formerly MUM)

JustDane(formerly Madison-area Urban Ministry), is a non-profit organization that offers an array of direct supportive initiatives for:

  • people being released from incarceration through our reentry programs, including the Journey Home, Circles of Support and Peer Support,
  • children and families impacted by the justice system,
  • justice-involved youth,
  • employment training for people with barriers to employment through Just Bakery,
  • recuperative medical respite for families experiencing homelessness at Healing House.

In 2023 over 750 individuals received support through JustDane’s initiatives.

This year JustDane celebrates 50 years of social justice work in our community. Throughout our 50 years JustDane has, and continues to engage in the community advocating for State and local justice system reforms, fair and affordable housing, an end to homelessness and racial and economic justice. Rev. William Sloane Coffin once said, “charity yes, always, but never as a substitute for justice.” His words reflect the importance of our work at JustDane offering support to individuals and families in our community, alleviating suffering while working to eliminate the causes of the suffering.

 VIDEO

 Thank you for giving generously

You can make a donation by check, on the memo line, please write “compassion” and mail to ORUCC, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711,

or donate online from our website. The link is https://orucc.org/contribute/support/

If you’d like to know more about JustDane’s work, there are two members of ORUCC on JustDane’s Board: Julie Horst and Phil Haslanger. They would be happy to share more about JustDane’s work in our community. We also invite you to join us on Thursday, April 11th as we celebrate 50 years. Our keynote speaker for the event will be Father Boyle, Founder of Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles. (Use QR code below for tickets to the April 11th Father Boyle event.)

Welcome to Lent at ORUCC! Our theme this year for Lent, inspired by one of the most popular and loved topic of Wayfinding: Soul Tasks of Aging, last year, is “‘Fear not!’ Becoming Death Doulas”

On March 3rd we will lift up times when death does not feel fair or natural, such as untimely deaths, tragedy or death by suicide, and following worship we will have a local expert come share time with us for a suicide prevention and awareness circle on March 3rd.

March 10th will lead us into the Biblical mantra of “fear not!” repeated by angels and psalmists and prophets throughout scripture.

On March 17th we will visit with the death doula women in the Bible who anointed the body of Jesus and think together about end of life rituals.

On March 24th we follow Jesus into Palm Sunday, with the triumphant waving of palm branches, and we will think about Jesus’ call to justice, and how death work can be justice work- and learn about green burials.

On Easter March 31st we will gather both at sunrise with brunch following and at 10am for a joyous celebration of the resurrection, the mystery at the heart of Christianity, that even in the face of death, God dreams and births new life. Perhaps the call of a death doula is to become midwives to the resurrection.

Suicide Awareness and Prevention Discussion

Following worship on March 3, all are welcome to participate in an important discussion to learn more about suicide awareness and how we can help support loved ones in crisis. Pastor Kate’s colleague and friend Janine Bussa, DAT, LPC, ATR-BC, will offer her experience and expertise. Janine is an art therapist and the clinical director of Trailhead Therapy and Mentoring.

Confirmation 2024

Confirmation will be offered this spring for all youth in 7th-9th grade who have not yet been confirmed. This is a special time in the life of our young people where they will be invited to explore their own faith, and learn and grow together! Pastor Kate will have an information session for all interested youth and their adults on March 3rd at 3:30 in the Brown Room (downstairs). Classes will begin on March 10th, with Confirmation Sunday on Pentecost, May 20th.

Throughout the confirmation season, be on the lookout for interactive opportunities for the whole congregation in Friendship Hall! Please reach out to Pastor Kate with any questions, [email protected].

We would love to have you at the all-ages, rescheduled All Church Retreat in April at Daycholah Center!

If you’d like to join for the whole weekend, the cost is $200 for adults (12+) and $140 for children (6-11, children under 5 are free). This includes lodging for two nights, dinner Friday night, three meals Saturday and one meal Sunday morning. The church is able to supplement part of the weekend financially from our budget, which is already reflected in the cost.

 

We have partial and full scholarships available, so please reach out to us if financial help would make this more accessible for your family, or if you’d like to pay extra to sponsor someone anonymously.

Register here and please pay registration fees on the church website.

 

Here are some FAQ for our retreat:

Who are our retreat leaders? And what are we doing?

Pastor Kate & Pastor Julia are coordinating a wonderful time with games, fun, and wandering the grounds in between thoughtful programming, delicious meals and plenty of down time to read and relax.

Our Saturday morning retreat leader is The Rev. Kirsten Worzala-Dumke, Chaplain at UW Carbonne Cancer Center and former pastor of Parroquia Santa Maria (a Spanish-language congregation associated with Luther Memorial Church ELCA). Kirsten is also a trusted friend of Pastor Kate.

After some free time, Saturday afternoon will include Wild Church with Pastor Julia’s spouse Daniel Cooperrider around the fire.

Leslie Linser will offer an opportunity for all-abilities Yoga on Saturday evening.

Sunday morning will close with worship facilitated by Pastor Kate & Pastor Julia.

Will this be super fun? Yes definitely!

What is the sleeping situation? If you have specific questions reach out to our wonderful Daycholah coordinator Kaitlyn: [email protected]

Some rooms are private and some are shared, and if you’d like to request a private room please reach out. The facilities have twin size mattresses and you will need to bring bedding.

If I do register, what should I bring?

Sleeping bag or warm blanket & sheets and pillows for a twin size bed.

Towels and toiletries.

Warm outdoor clothes and rain boots.

Cozy indoor clothes and indoor shoes.

Is Daycholah accessible? Yes! They have accessible rooms as well and an elevator in the dining hall building. They also have a golf cart that could be used for traversing Daycholah.

 

While is no way we could say there are no trip or fall hazards (Daycholah is built into a large hill, and there is always a risk of ice and bad weather in January) Daycholah staff will do everything they can to assist with any guest needs. If there are specific requests, please know we will do our very best to accommodate.

For other questions related to the facilities, meals, and lodging, contact Kaitlyn: [email protected]

 

Here are the registration links again:

REGISTRATION FORM

PAYMENT SITE

 

We cannot wait to share time with you in the New Year!

 

Julia & Kate

Help TRU Function get a Drum set!!!!!

You can now contribute online! LINK

Women’s Book Group



The Last Bookshop in London by Madeline Martin is the book up for discussion on March 7 for the ORUCC Women’s Book Group. Our leader will be Cheryl Donkle. Please join us from 1:30pm to 3:00pm on Zoom. A link will be sent to the book group mailing list. If you are interested in joining, please contact Deanna Blanchard at [email protected].

Volunteers requested for Neighborhood Initiative

ORUCC is invited to partner with Good Sheperd Lutheran Church (GSLC) and Joining Forces for Families (JFF) to pilot a Housing Navigator resource for people in our Madison Southwest neighborhood. We are looking for 4 volunteers who would be willing to work with individuals experiencing challenges finding housing. JFF and other neighborhood agencies conduct a walk-in Job Shop at Meadowood Center every Wednesday morning 9-12noon for neighbors in the Southwest area looking to find a new or better job. Support services each Wednesday include social workers, Center staff, UW students for resume writing, and more. Large tables with computers provided, lend ample space for work with individuals. This is a comfortable and supportive team environment for those needing assistance in job hunting to ensure family stability and housing security. 

If you are interested in becoming a Housing Navigator volunteer for this new initiative, you will receive in-person training.  You will become part of a team to make a real difference in people’s lives in our church neighborhood.

If you are interested in working on this exciting pilot program, please contact:

Rick Thomas

Outreach Director

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

608-212-7582 or [email protected]

Spiritual

Nourishment

for you!

For the week of Feb 29 – March 6

 

Read this week’s reflections as a way to dive deeper into your spiritual practice or to get some nourishment and inspiration

for your day.



Click Here for Reflections

 

We are grateful for the ministry of Jeanne Moberly who is a member of Adult Faith Formation, as she puts together a set of fresh readings every week for our devotional practice at Orchard Ridge UCC. You will see these posted daily if you are part of the “Members & Friends” Facebook group. If you know someone who needs encouragement and would like the devotional mailed to them, please contact Julie Wombacher in the church office.

Great Progress Being Made Creating Quilts for Gaza

Friday Breakfast Group – March 1

 

The next Friday Breakfast is set for March 1 at 8:30 am at Denny’s, 433 S. Gammon Road. All are welcome! The group meets on the first Friday of the month and includes both men and women. Join us for this informal chance to connect and converse on many topics. Contact Louise Jeanne, Link for more information.

Lunch and Learn

Wednesday, March 13th, 11:30

 

 

Our program for March will be presented by Ann Albert, Executive Director AgeBetter.org.  That organization has created Sharing Active Independent Lives (SAIL).

SAIL IS sharing active independent lives… each and every day. The SAIL staff cherishes senior members’ experiences, wisdom, and unique talents. They form a vibrant community where support, learning, and togetherness thrive. SAIL provides an array of services designed to protect independence and encourage connections—most of which were created or inspired by members. Members volunteer to help one another and the organization.

 

We gather on Wednesday the 13th at 11:30, dine from a wonderful buffet at 11:45, ($10 per person) and adjourn for the program at 12:30.  Please RSVP to Steve Sheets: [email protected]. 

“Holdovers” is our Movie Group Selection

March 7th, 7:30

Oakwood Fine Arts Auditorium

 

Sure to elicit laughter, this comedy-drama is set in 1970.  A cranky instructor (Pail Giamatti) at a New England prep school remains on campus during Christmas break to babysit a handful of students with nowhere to go. He soon forms an unlikely bond with a brainy but damaged troublemaker (Dominic Sessa), and with the school’s head cook (Da’Vine Joy Randolph), a woman who just lost a son in the Vietnam War.

 

The film has garnered five Oscar nominations; Best Picture; Best Screenplay; Best Film Editing; Best Actor, Paul Giamatti;   Best Supporting Actress, Da’Vine Joy Randolph.

 

Join us March 7th, 7:30 p.m. at Oakwood.  Discussion to follow in the Mendota room.  Questions?  Contact Steve Sheets, [email protected], or Doug Loving, [email protected]. 

Moderator Moment

Well, my first Moderator Moment and I am so happy to share what our Leadership Team is up to! On February 20 we had a mini-retreat to kick off our year! We had a meal together prior to our guest speaker and our regular meeting. For me, the highlight was the first hour we spent with ORUCC member, and professional speaker and coach, Darcy Luoma. Darcy worked through discussions and activities designed to create high performing teams.



Our group was so positively energized that we got through our meeting agenda in about two-thirds the time it would usually take and made some great decisions. One of those was a creative way to fund the purchase of a $4000 new drum set for our youth band, TRU Function. We made an appeal to the congregation this past Sunday for donations and plan to make up any shortfall with memorial funds. You are welcome to send donations to the church office. I believe this is one of the excellent ways we show our youth we appreciate them!

I am also very happy that 3 of our 10 Leadership Team members are relatively new to our congregation, as well as 14 of the 33 members on the five Ministries. I am very thankful for the energy these wonderful people have for doing God’s work in our world and I’m looking forward to a great year. Please take a few minutes to look at the Leadership Team bulletin board in the hallway near the kitchen! Talk to us about your dreams for ORUCC.

Join Beth Israel Center and Dane Sanctuary Coalition on March 10 at 7:pm

Please join Beth Israel Center and the Dane Sanctuary Coalition on March 10 at 7:00pm for a presentation from members of Beth Israel Center on their recent volunteer trips to Casa Alitas in Tucson. Throughout October, groups of volunteers from Beth Israel Center journeyed to Tucson to volunteer at Casa Alitas, a migrant welcome center. As the crisis at our border increases, the needs for help at Casa Alitas and similar migrant centers will only increase.

Join us on March 10 and hear about the volunteers’ experiences and how the trip came together. The event will be in person at Beth Israel Center, 1406 Mound St, Madison, WI 53711, and also on Zoom.

 

Please RSVP by March 8 using this google form: https://forms.gle/363KwRqsxQwyV3Q59

Rabbi Bonnie Margulis

Executive Director

Wisconsin Faith Voices for Justice

608-513-7121

Dane Sanctuary Coalition Steering Committee 

Our newly formed Land Acknowledgment Task Force met this week and is beginning to lay a foundation for the purpose of a land acknowledgment and our specific actions as a congregation in response. On March 5th, our very own Rev. Kerri Parker, member of ORUCC and Executive Director of the Wisconsin Council of Churches will be giving a presentation about land acknowledgments at MacFarland UCC 6:30-8pm .



By Zoom on Thursdays: 04:00 PM Central Time

  

  

    Mar 21, 2024 04:00 PM

    Apr 18, 2024 04:00 PM

    May 16, 2024 04:00 PM

Click here to join Zoom meeting



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Meeting ID: 879 9802 5473

Passcode: 573548

Dial in

1 312 626 6799 US 

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT!

Pastor Julia–Fear Not! Becoming Death Doulas Feb 18 Click Here

Sign Up Now Through the End of June 2024!

AT ORUCC, the Members are the Ministers!

We are seeking volunteers to serve on Sunday mornings for in-person worship. You need not be a member, simply a person who loves ORUCC and is eager to find a place to serve!

Young people are welcome to sign up too!

Would you consider serving one or more times as

a Coffee Maker, a Welcomer, a Lay Liturgist or

to assist with Holy Communion?

Feel free to sign up as an individual, a couple, or a family!

Click here to sign up as a Coffee Maker

Click here to sign up as a Welcomer

Click here to sign up as a Lay Liturgist

Click here to assist with Holy Communion

After selecting one or more dates, you will need to click “Submit and Sign Up” at the bottom of the page, then enter your name & email address, then click “Sign Up Now.”

Questions or problems signing up?

Contact Ken Pennings at [email protected] or 608-556-2371.

Office Manager Julie Wombacher

available Mon.-Thurs. 8:30am -12:00 pm

by appointment

608-271-7212 or EMAIL

Senior Pastor Julia Burkey available

Tues.- Fri. & Sun. 9:00 am – 7:00 pm

by appointment

518-542-6915 EMAIL

Associate Pastor Ken Pennings: available

Tues.-Thurs. 10:00 am -5:00 pm 

by appointment

608-556-2371 EMAIL

Associate Pastor Kate Mackey: available

Mon.-Thurs. 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

by appointment

608-358-6143 EMAIL

Julia and Ken (try to) take Monday & Saturday as Sabbath days,

Kate Friday and Saturday

Friday is observed as a writing day for the preaching pastor.

In case of a pastoral emergency, please call any of the pastors, as all pastors are available by phone, text and we will always have a pastor on call who we can turn to.

LIKE or FOLLOW the Orchard Ridge FaceBook Page

JOIN our Private FB Group:

“Members & Friends of Orchard Ridge UCC“

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

1501 Gilbert Road

Madison, WI 53711

608-271-7212

Office Hours: M-Th 8:30-12:30
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Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

Webinar Recording Available

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 29, 2024

A webinar, “Declaration for a Just Peace Between Palestine and Israel” A Study of the 2021 UCC Resolution hosted by the Wisconsin Conference of the UCC was presented Wednesday, January 3rd. The recording is available here.

This webinar will explores UCC’s 2021 Resolution of Witness describing Israel’s military occupation of Palestine an apartheid system. Note: This is a condensed version of the in-person presentations in July 2023 at ORUCC, with added information about the situation in Gaza. 

Petition mailed to President Biden

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 29, 2024

Motivated by the urgent need to prevent death by starvation of masses of Palestinian men, women and children, members of ORUCC’s Palestine Justice Mission Team sent an urgent petition to President Joseph Biden.

The petition recognizes the vital role that UNRWA (the United Nations Refugee and Works Administration) plays in the lives of everyday Palestinians, including Palestinian families in Gaza facing starvation and imminent death from lack of UNRWA-supplied food. The petition recognizes that President Biden himself has cut off funds for UNRWA, and requests that he restore these critically needed funds. The petition concludes with this call to action:  

“Your administration’s decision to cancel UNRWA funding was taken despite calls from the United Nations and numerous humanitarian organizations to increase aid to Gaza, in the face of a rapidly rising toll of deaths by starvation and disease. This action to cancel UNRWA funding, taken on the flimsiest of excuses, makes the US complicit in the very genocide the ICJ has warned against. It also highlights the gap between your administration and the overwhelming majority of US citizens, many of whom have marched in the streets demanding a ceasefire, demanding an end to US funding of Israel’s longstanding military occupation, and showing care for and solidarity with the men, women and children of Gaza. We request that you restore funding to UNRWA.”

Read the full text of the petition below. We signed this petition as individual members and friends of ORUCC, and not on behalf of the entire congregation.

February 27, 2024

The Honorable Joseph R. Biden, Jr.
President of the United States
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20500

Request that you restore US funding to UNRWA to its historic level prior to the election of Donald Trump as president   

Dear President Biden:

We write to you as members and friends of the Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ congregation in Madison, Wisconsin. 

We urgently request you restore funding to UNWRA to its historic level prior to the election of Donald Trump as president. 

The United Nations Relief & Works Agency (UNRWA) is a hardworking, respectable agency created in 1949 to meet the immediate needs of Palestinian refugees who had been ethnically cleansed from their homes in 1948. The organization runs refugee camps for displaced Palestinians in Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, the West Bank, and Gaza. It has three major areas of service: Education (through UNRWA schools), Health (through its clinics), and Social Services. The organization undertakes essential, urgently needed work which is performed by UNRWA staff most of whom are, themselves, Palestinian refugees. Today, UNRWA serves about 5.7 million Palestinian refugees. 

On January 26 the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordered Israel to take steps to prevent acts of genocide and improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Yet, the very day after this decision was announced, US funding was pulled from UNRWA.   

In an effort to divert attention from this powerful, bold decision by the ICJ, Israel announced without furnishing any proof that 12 out of the 13,000 employees of UNRWA were involved in the attacks of October 7. In response to these accusations, UNRWA fired the 12 accused employees. Yet, this dismissal was not enough for those in the US (and elsewhere) who demanded UNRWA be punished, possibly dismantled, and prevented from continuing its humanitarian mission. 

Your administration’s decision to cancel UNRWA funding was taken despite calls from the United Nations and numerous humanitarian organizations to increase aid to Gaza, in the face of a rapidly rising toll of deaths by starvation and disease. This action to cancel UNRWA funding, taken on the flimsiest of excuses, makes the US complicit in the very genocide the ICJ has warned against. It also highlights the gap between your administration and the overwhelming majority of US citizens, many of whom have marched in the streets demanding a ceasefire, demanding an end to US funding of Israel’s longstanding military occupation, and showing care for and solidarity with the men, woman and children of Gaza.

We request that you restore funding to UNRWA. 

Thank you.

3/3 Music Connections

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 29, 2024

This week the children will begin the 10 o'clock hour in the sanctuary with you. When they are dismissed for Music Connections, we will move to the downstairs Bonhoeffer Room for movement and movement. The children have already started crafting their next project: Guided Meditation and Reflective Music. We'll see if that idea has stuck and if they are ready to move forward with the creation. Kristin S. will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer. 

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children's Education Coordinator
Children's Music Director

ORUCC Java & Jesus, March 3rd, 9 am (In-person or by Zoom)

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 29, 2024

Java & Jesus

Sunday, March 3, at 9 am

Attend in-person at the church in the

Alfred Swan Room, or attend remotely

by Zoom

Peg Knueve facilitating

All are welcome!

Join us even if this is your first time!

Please read ahead of time and come prepared to discuss a chapter from Richard Rohr’s book What Do We Do With Evil?

His chapter “A Way Out and Through” explores the misunderstanding that religion can add to evil if it is only about ritual, rules and obedience. He suggests that our faith should be about the extravagant freedom to love. Rohr urges us to look at systemic causes, rather than individual acts as the only source of evil. As Rohr points out, “We need real wisdom and spiritual intelligence in attacking evil or it rebounds back on us.”

Click here for reading

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

 Click here to join Zoom discussion

Or paste the following into your browser:  

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83649436657?pwd=R2hVU0drV1N2VTZlMVJoRmI4K2VtUT09

To join Zoom discussion by phone: 1 312 626 6799

Meeting ID: 836 4943 6657

Passcode: 315584

If you have difficulty accessing the Zoom discussion,

phone Ken Pennings at 608-556-2371
Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, www.orucc.org, Madison, WI 53711

3/3 Sunday School – Dancing the Labyrinth with Pastor Julia

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 28, 2024

This week…


Nursery Care opens at 8:30. Jade and Marie are ready to play with your little one. 

Sunday School starts at 9 am. ALL PreK-5th grade children are invited to sing with Julie in Friendship Hall from 9:00-9:15. After the music, Pastor Julia will guide the children in a special “Dancing the Labyrinth” experience.

Be sure to pop by the Bridges Room to share your thoughts on “How We Can Make The World A Better Place.” Please add your ideas to the sign on the door. Everyone in our community is welcome to contribute. 
Looking ahead: 
3/1: Family Game Night
3/17: Pastor Kate's Installation Ceremony
3/24: No Sunday School. Stay tuned for info about an intergenerational coloring opportunity. 
3/31: Easter Sunday! No Sunday School. 

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children's Education Coordinator
Children's Music Director

ORUCC Worship Resources for Sunday, February 25th, 2024

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 24, 2024

Orchard Ridge

United Church of Christ

Sunday Worship Resources

Sunday, February 25, 2024

Lent 2

9:00 am Sunday School

Education Wing

9:00 am Java & Jesus for Adults

Alfred Swan Room

10:00 am Worship

Sermon: Rev. Dr. Julia Burkey

“Cultivating Deep Peace”

in our “Fear Not!” Becoming Death Doulas, series

Lay Liturgist: Amy Kell

Music: TRU Function & children of Music Connections

11:15: Israel in Context, Friendship Hall

You are invited to a presentation: “Israel in Context,” hosted in Friendship Hall by Rabbi Bonnie Margulis, Executive Director, Wisconsin Faith Voices For Justice and Rabbi Jonathan Biatch, Rabbi, Temple Beth El, who will share with us their perspectives on the anguishing conflict in the Holy Land.

Click here for at-home bulletin

Join our Worship virtually

on YouTube any time after 10 am:

YouTube Link

You will need to refresh the page

after 10 am if you have opened it before

For Children & Youth – February 25th

Nursery Care opens at 8:30. Jade and Marie are ready to play with your little one. 

Sunday School starts at 9 am. ALL PreK-5th grade children are invited to sing with Julie in the William Johnson room from 9:00-9:15. After the music, Karen and Josie will guide the PreK-1 children and any others who are not participating in the special music share during worship in a story about The Most Important Commandment.

Those who participated in the song/poetry writing experience in Music Connections will shift to the Frank Room to rehearse their music before a final rehearsal in the sanctuary at 9:30. 

Be sure to pop by the Bridges Room to share your thoughts of “How We Can Make The World A Better Place.” Please add your ideas to the sign on the door. Everyone in our community is welcome to contribute. 

Music Connections: This week the children will begin the 10 o’clock hour in the sanctuary with you. Those who have participated in our song/poetry writing project will share their special music during the worship service. After our music, all the children will stay in worship. This will allow everyone to have the opportunity to watch TruFunction perform!

Older Youth: This Sunday TRU Function plays in worship at 10:00–this means that they will gather at 8:30 a.m. for rehearsal. Youth who are not part of TRU Function will be invited to “Breakfast Club” with Pastor Kate and Barbara Stretchberry in the Day room at 9:00 a.m. 

Looking ahead:

  • Wed., February 28th, 6:30 p.m.: Meeting for folks interested in talking about service trip fundraising, meeting by zoom. Pastor Kate will send out a direct email early next week with a zoom link to Service Trip families.
  • Sun., March 3, 3:30 p.m.: Confirmation Class Info meeting for youth 7th-9th and their adults! Held at the church. 
  • Sun., March 10, 3:30-5:30 Confirmation Class, held at church.
  • Sun., March 17, 1:30 p.m.: Pastor Kate’s Installation Service 

Java & Jesus

Sunday, Feb. 25, at 9 am

Attend in-person at the church in the

Alfred Swan Room, or attend remotely

by Zoom

Dick Rossmiller facilitating

All are welcome!

Join us even if this is your first time!

Please read ahead of time and come prepared to discuss “Strangeness of Easter” (Wall Street Journal, April 3-4, 2021).



Click here for reading

 Click here to join Zoom discussion

Or paste the following into your browser:  

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83649436657?pwd=R2hVU0drV1N2VTZlMVJoRmI4K2VtUT09

To join Zoom discussion by phone: 1 312 626 6799

Meeting ID: 836 4943 6657

Passcode: 315584

If you have difficulty accessing the Zoom discussion,

phone Ken Pennings at 608-556-2371

FEBRUARY COMPASSION OFFERING

Porchlight, Inc - Safe Haven Program

 

Safe Haven is a Madison-based day shelter for adults with mental illness who are experiencing homelessness. Guests have access to meals, showers, laundry, bus tickets, mail, and phone services. Safe Haven also provides housing-focused case management and crisis stabilization services. Safe Haven staff specialize in building rapport with individuals who may not otherwise engage in mainstream services.   

 

Safe Haven provides invaluable support through its Crisis Stabilization Program, which focuses on developing and maintaining recovery plans for guests experiencing acute crises. All eligible guests have been diagnosed with a severe and persistent mental illness, and 43% are also struggling with a co-occurring substance use disorder. 

 

Safe Haven’s daily utilization has increased significantly over the past several years, more than doubling from 2018 (198 guests) to 2020 (467 guests). As one of the few community programs for this population that kept its doors open, utilization continued to increase throughout the pandemic. In 2023, Safe Haven served 602 guests during the day. Of those guests, 41% were unsheltered – sleeping in a place not meant for human habitation, and 55% were sleeping in an emergency shelter at night. 

 

With skyrocketing costs and increased guest usage at Safe Haven, Porchlight is in need of additional funding to support these services. Your generous contribution will go directly toward guest services at the day shelter as well as transitional housing support, specifically for individuals with mental illness. 

VIDEO

 Thank you for giving generously

 

You can make a donation by check, on the memo line, please write “compassion” and mail to ORUCC, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711,

or donate online from our website. The link is https://orucc.org/contribute/support/

Office Manager Julie Wombacher

Mon.-Thurs. 8:30am -12:00 pm

608-271-7212 or EMAIL

Senior Pastor: Rev. Dr. Julia Burkey

EMAIL

Associate Pastor: Rev. Kate Mackey EMAIL

Associate Pastor: Rev. Ken Pennings

EMAIL

Children’s Education Coordinator & Music Director: Julie Mazer EMAIL



LIKE or FOLLOW the Orchard Ridge Facebook Page

JOIN our Private FB Group:

“Members & Friends of Orchard Ridge UCC“

Follow us on Instagram @orchardridgeucc
Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

ORUCC Youth 2/25

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 22, 2024

Hello friends,

This Sunday TRU Function plays in worship at 10:00–this means that they will gather at 8:30 a.m. for rehearsal. Youth who are not part of TRU Function will be invited to “Breakfast Club” with Pastor Kate and Barbara Stretchberry in the Day room at 9:00 a.m. 
Looking ahead:
  • Wed., February 28th, 6:30 p.m.: Meeting for folks interested in talking about service trip fundraising, meeting by zoom. I will send out a direct email early next week with a zoom link to Service Trip families.
  • Sun., March 3, 3:30 p.m.: Confirmation Class Info meeting for youth 7th-9th and their adults! Held at the church. 
  • Sun., March 10, 3:30-5:30 Confirmation Class, held at church.
  • Sun., March 17, 1:30 p.m.: Pastor Kate's Installation Service
See you all soon!
Grace and peace,
Kate

—

Rev. Kate Mackey
(she/her/hers)
Associate Pastor for Children, Youth, and Families
Orchard Ridge UCC
1501 Gilbert Rd.
Madison, WI 53711
Office: (608) 271-7212 ex. 2030
“If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to one another.” -Mother Teresa 

*Please note: I take Fridays and Saturdays as sabbath days and may not respond immediately to my email during those times. 

ORUCC Java & Jesus, February 25th, 9 am (In-person or by Zoom)

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 22, 2024

Java & Jesus

Sunday, Feb. 25, at 9 am

Attend in-person at the church in the

Alfred Swan Room, or attend remotely

by Zoom

Dick Rossmiller facilitating

All are welcome!

Join us even if this is your first time!

Please read ahead of time and come prepared to discuss “Strangeness of Easter” (Wall Street Journal, April 3-4, 2021).



Click here for reading

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

 Click here to join Zoom discussion

Or paste the following into your browser:  

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83649436657?pwd=R2hVU0drV1N2VTZlMVJoRmI4K2VtUT09

To join Zoom discussion by phone: 1 312 626 6799

Meeting ID: 836 4943 6657

Passcode: 315584

If you have difficulty accessing the Zoom discussion,

phone Ken Pennings at 608-556-2371
Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, www.orucc.org, Madison, WI 53711

ORUCC Weekly Announcements for February 22

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 22, 2024

Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice

Week at a Glance February 22

Sunday, February 25

9:00 am – Sunday School for Children and Youth –

Education Wing

9:00 am – For Adults – Java & Jesus – Alfred Swan Room

10:00 am Worship

Sermon: Rev. Dr. Julia Burkey

Lay Liturgist: Amy Kell

Music: TRU Function

11:15 Israel in Context

Wayfinding, The Soul Tasks of Aging

Virtual Gathering

Thursday, February 22

4:00-5:15 pm

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87998025473?pwd=dEEzcFkvSnBNdzNUaE5BK2RxUDZqZz09 

Men’s Group

Monday, February 26

7:15 – 8:30 pm

Alfred Swan Room

Palestinian Justice Mission Team

Tuesday, February 27

7:00 – 8:30 pm

Alfred Swan Room

Immigration Justice Mission Team

Wednesday, February 28

4:00 pm – 5:30 pm

Zoom

Ruthanne Landsness

Wednesday, February 28

Youth Service Trip Fundraising Meeting

6:30 – 8:00 pm

Zoom

Kate Mackey

Choir Practice

Wednesday, February 28

7:00 – 8:30 pm

Church

New Members Welcome

Meditation Group

Thursday, February 29

8:30 – 9:30 am

Oscar Romero Room

Sue Dixon 

Breakfast Group

Friday, March 1

8:30 am

Denny’s

Gammon Road

Meditation Group

Friday, March 1

9:30 am – 10:30 am

Sue Dixon

Zoom

Family Game Night

Friday, March 1

6:00 pm

Friendship Hall

Rachael Lancor

FEBRUARY COMPASSION OFFERING

Porchlight, Inc – Safe Haven Program

Safe Haven is a Madison-based day shelter for adults with mental illness who are experiencing homelessness. Guests have access to meals, showers, laundry, bus tickets, mail, and phone services. Safe Haven also provides housing-focused case management and crisis stabilization services. Safe Haven staff specialize in building rapport with individuals who may not otherwise engage in mainstream services.   

 

Safe Haven provides invaluable support through its Crisis Stabilization Program, which focuses on developing and maintaining recovery plans for guests experiencing acute crises. All eligible guests have been diagnosed with a severe and persistent mental illness, and 43% are also struggling with a co-occurring substance use disorder. 

 

Safe Haven’s daily utilization has increased significantly over the past several years, more than doubling from 2018 (198 guests) to 2020 (467 guests). As one of the few community programs for this population that kept its doors open, utilization continued to increase throughout the pandemic. In 2023, Safe Haven served 602 guests during the day. Of those guests, 41% were unsheltered – sleeping in a place not meant for human habitation, and 55% were sleeping in an emergency shelter at night. 

 

With skyrocketing costs and increased guest usage at Safe Haven, Porchlight is in need of additional funding to support these services. Your generous contribution will go directly toward guest services at the day shelter as well as transitional housing support, specifically for individuals with mental illness. 

VIDEO

 Thank you for giving generously

You can make a donation by check, on the memo line, please write “compassion” and mail to ORUCC, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711,

or donate online from our website. The link is https://orucc.org/contribute/support/

Welcome to Lent at ORUCC! Our theme this year for Lent, inspired by one of the most popular and loved topic of Wayfinding: Soul Tasks of Aging, last year, is “‘Fear not!’ Becoming Death Doulas”

February 25th, with much of the service led by children and youth, we will explore cultivating deep peace- a spiritual technique that will serve us all our lives and especially as we approach times of death.

On March 3rd we will lift up times when death does not feel fair or natural, such as untimely deaths, tragedy or death by suicide, and following worship we will have a local expert come share time with us for a suicide prevention and awareness circle on March 3rd.

March 10th will lead us into the Biblical mantra of “fear not!” repeated by angels and psalmists and prophets throughout scripture.

On March 17th we will visit with the death doula women in the Bible who anointed the body of Jesus and think together about end of life rituals.

On March 24th we follow Jesus into Palm Sunday, with the triumphant waving of palm branches, and we will think about Jesus’ call to justice, and how death work can be justice work- and learn about green burials.

On Easter March 31st we will gather both at sunrise with brunch following and at 10am for a joyous celebration of the resurrection, the mystery at the heart of Christianity, that even in the face of death, God dreams and births new life. Perhaps the call of a death doula is to become midwives to the resurrection.

Women’s Book Group



The ORUCC Women’s Book Group meets on Zoom on the first Thursday of the month from 1:30-3:00pm. The group is open to women of all ages and we enjoy welcoming new members.   A member can participate as often or as little as desired and It is a great way to meet other church members!  Contact Deanna Blanchard at 608-712-0263 or at [email protected].

Spiritual

Nourishment

for you!

For the week of Feb 22 – Feb 28

 

Read this week’s reflections as a way to dive deeper into your spiritual practice or to get some nourishment and inspiration

for your day.



Click Here for Reflections

 

We are grateful for the ministry of Jeanne Moberly who is a member of Adult Faith Formation, as she puts together a set of fresh readings every week for our devotional practice at Orchard Ridge UCC. You will see these posted daily if you are part of the “Members & Friends” Facebook group. If you know someone who needs encouragement and would like the devotional mailed to them, please contact Julie Wombacher in the church office.

Last Chance February 25-Easter Flower Orders

We will be decorating the sanctuary with Easter lilies, tulips, daffodils and hyacinth from Felly’s again this year. We invite you to make a donation in Honor or in Memory of a Loved one. Plants will be $16 and forms will be in the crossroads. Orders will be due by Sunday, February 25. 

You are invited!

ISRAEL IN CONTEXT

Sunday, February 25th, 11:15 am

Friendship Hall

Micah 6:8 reads “….what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, to have mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” We, as a community of faith, are therefore obligated to understand, with our limited capacities, the meaning of justice, mercy and humbleness even as the conflict in Gaza rages on.

To help us with this, Rabbi Bonnie Margulis, Executive Director, Wisconsin Faith Voices For Justice and Rabbi Jonathan Biatch, Rabbi, Temple Beth El, will share with us their perspectives on this anguishing conflict. The following is their description of the presentation:

“We will cover a quick overview of 4000 years of Jewish history, explaining our historic ties to the land of Israel, our experiences in the Diaspora and 2000 years of longing to return to Israel, the impact of antisemitism on world Jewry, the founding of the state of Israel, and the history of the conflict between Israel and her Arab neighbors and Israel and the Palestinians. We hope people will come away with a better understanding of the deep connection Jews feel to the land of Israel, and of the roots and causes of the present conflict.“

Inquiries concerning the presentation can be directed to Baxter Richardson, [email protected] .

Friday Breakfast Group – March 1

 

The next Friday Breakfast is set for March 1 at 8:30 am at Denny’s, 433 S. Gammon Road. All are welcome! The group meets on the first Friday of the month and includes both men and women. Join us for this informal chance to connect and converse on many topics. Contact Louise Jeanne, Link for more information.

   QUILTS FOR GAZA — Quilters Invited

The war in Gaza has left thousands of people homeless, injured and critically ill. Many of these people are newborn infants, young children, teenagers.

Although at present very few shipments of humanitarian aid for Gaza are allowed entrance, in time it will become possible to send quilts to Gaza. An ad hoc group of quilters from Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ is preparing for this opportunity by quilting small (40 x 40 inches for babies and young children, slightly larger for teens) quilts for distribution to Gaza when feasible via our United Church of Christ Global Mission Partner, the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem.

Your help is invited! Join the effort by making quilts; sharing extra fabric/thread/lightweight batting you have on hand; donating funds to help with materials and shipping costs; praying for the people of Gaza; spreading the word to others who may wish to help.



Contact Diane Dulin for more information. We welcome your questions, ideas, and involvement.  [email protected]  503-779-9173

“Holdovers” is our Movie Group Selection

March 7th, 7:30

Oakwood Fine Arts Auditorium

 

Sure to elicit laughter, this comedy-drama is set in 1970.  A cranky instructor (Pail Giamatti) at a New England prep school remains on campus during Christmas break to babysit a handful of students with nowhere to go. He soon forms an unlikely bond with a brainy but damaged troublemaker (Dominic Sessa), and with the school’s head cook (Da’Vine Joy Randolph), a woman who just lost a son in the Vietnam War.

 

The film has garnered five Oscar nominations; Best Picture; Best Screenplay; Best Film Editing; Best Actor, Paul Giamatti;   Best Supporting Actress, Da’Vine Joy Randolph.

 

Join us March 7th, 7:30 p.m. at Oakwood.  Discussion to follow in the Mendota room.  Questions?  Contact Steve Sheets, [email protected], or Doug Loving, [email protected]. 

Our newly formed Land Acknowledgment Task Force met this week and is beginning to lay a foundation for the purpose of a land acknowledgment and our specific actions as a congregation in response. On March 5th, our very own Rev. Kerri Parker, member of ORUCC and Executive Director of the Wisconsin Council of Churches will be giving a presentation about land acknowledgments at MacFarland UCC 6:30-8pm .

Today–February 22nd virtually over ZOOM 4pm-5:15pm.

By Zoom on Thursdays: 04:00 PM Central Time

  

    Feb 22, 2024 04:00 PM

    Mar 21, 2024 04:00 PM

    Apr 18, 2024 04:00 PM

    May 16, 2024 04:00 PM

Click here to join Zoom meeting



us02web.zoom.us/j/87998025473?pwd=dEEzcFkvSnBNdzNUaE5BK2RxUDZqZz09

Meeting ID: 879 9802 5473

Passcode: 573548

Dial in

1 312 626 6799 US 

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT!

Pastor Julia–Fear Not! Becoming Death Doulas Feb 18 Click Here

Sign Up Now Through the End of June 2024!

AT ORUCC, the Members are the Ministers!

We are seeking volunteers to serve on Sunday mornings for in-person worship. You need not be a member, simply a person who loves ORUCC and is eager to find a place to serve!

Young people are welcome to sign up too!

Would you consider serving one or more times as

a Coffee Maker, a Welcomer, a Lay Liturgist or

to assist with Holy Communion?

Feel free to sign up as an individual, a couple, or a family!

Click here to sign up as a Coffee Maker

Click here to sign up as a Welcomer

Click here to sign up as a Lay Liturgist

Click here to assist with Holy Communion

After selecting one or more dates, you will need to click “Submit and Sign Up” at the bottom of the page, then enter your name & email address, then click “Sign Up Now.”

Questions or problems signing up?

Contact Ken Pennings at [email protected] or 608-556-2371.

Office Manager Julie Wombacher

available Mon.-Thurs. 8:30am -12:00 pm

by appointment

608-271-7212 or EMAIL

Senior Pastor Julia Burkey available

Tues.- Fri. & Sun. 9:00 am – 7:00 pm

by appointment

518-542-6915 EMAIL

Associate Pastor Ken Pennings: available

Tues.-Thurs. 10:00 am -5:00 pm 

by appointment

608-556-2371 EMAIL

Associate Pastor Kate Mackey: available

Mon.-Thurs. 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

by appointment

608-358-6143 EMAIL

Julia and Ken (try to) take Monday & Saturday as Sabbath days,

Kate Friday and Saturday

Friday is observed as a writing day for the preaching pastor.

In case of a pastoral emergency, please call any of the pastors, as all pastors are available by phone, text and we will always have a pastor on call who we can turn to.

LIKE or FOLLOW the Orchard Ridge FaceBook Page

JOIN our Private FB Group:

“Members & Friends of Orchard Ridge UCC“

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

1501 Gilbert Road

Madison, WI 53711

608-271-7212

Office Hours: M-Th 8:30-12:30
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Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

No Music Connections 2/25; Children stay in worship after sharing special music

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 22, 2024

This week the children will begin the 10 o'clock hour in the sanctuary with you. Those who have participated in our song/poetry writing project will share their special music during the worship service. After our music, all the children will stay in worship. This will allow everyone to have the opportunity to watch TruFunction perform!


Julie Mazer (she/her)
Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children’s Education Coordinator
Children’s Music Director

You’re invited to ISRAEL IN CONTEXT, Feb. 25, 11:15 am, at ORUCC

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 21, 2024

You are invited!

ISRAEL IN CONTEXT

Sunday, February 25th, 11:15 am, in Friendship Hall, at Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ, 1501 Gilbert Rd., Madison, WI 53711

No food is planned for this event, but feel free to brink snacks for yourself and/or others.

Micah 6:8 reads “….what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, to have mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” We, as a community of faith, are therefore obligated to understand, with our limited capacities, the meaning of justice, mercy and humbleness even as the conflict in Gaza rages on.

To help us with this, Rabbi Bonnie Margulis, Executive Director, Wisconsin Faith Voices For Justice and Rabbi Jonathan Biatch, Rabbi, Temple Beth El, will share with us their perspectives on this anguishing conflict. The following is their description of the presentation:

“We will cover a quick overview of 4000 years of Jewish history, explaining our historic ties to the land of Israel, our experiences in the Diaspora and 2000 years of longing to return to Israel, the impact of antisemitism on world Jewry, the founding of the state of Israel, and the history of the conflict between Israel and her Arab neighbors and Israel and the Palestinians. We hope people will come away with a better understanding of the deep connection Jews feel to the land of Israel, and of the roots and causes of the present conflict.“

Inquiries concerning the presentation can be directed to Baxter Richardson, [email protected] .
Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice, www.orucc.org, Madison, WI 53711