Orchard Ridge

United Church of Christ

Sunday Worship Resources

Sunday, April 27

The Second Sunday of Easter

9:00 am Earth Month Speaker Jeff Epping

Gardening with Native Plants

Friendship Hall

(see below)

9:00 a.m. New Members Class 4th Session

Anne Frank Room

10:00 am Worship

Sermon: 2025 ORUCC Border Immersion Trip presentation (after the service)

Musical Offerings: TRU Function

11:15 am Presentation by members of the 2025 ORUCC Border Immersion Trip

(see below)

Click Here for Printable Bulletin

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Sunday, April 27th, is Immigration Sunday!

After worship, join the folks who traveled to Arizona for a border immersion trip in January 2025 to discuss the trip and hear their reflections on their experience there. The border wall, the Samaritan campsite, crosses in the desert, well-known authors, music, great food – all fascinating. We welcome your questions. 

Earth Month speaker at 9:00 am this Sunday, April 27th in Friendship Hall: Jeff Epping

Jeff Epping was the director of Horticulture at Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison for 25 years. He received the Award of Merit from the American Public Gardens Association in 2023 for his work as an early innovator of eco-friendly gardening practices and use of native plants in the landscape. He pioneered techniques like leaf mulching, organic lawn care, gravel gardens and living mulch. More recently he designed the extensive gardens at Epic Systems in Verona. Plan to attend to learn about sustainable landscapes and practices to promote pollinators at home and in the community.

April Compassion Offering:

One Great Hour of Sharing

One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) is a cornerstone of United Church of Christ’s mission:

• OGHS supports global refugees working to reach new homes and build new lives.
• OGHS addresses emergency needs arising from hurricanes, floods, fires, earthquakes.
• OGHS develops sustainable resources and skills among communities (both domestic and international) weakened by chronic poverty or climate challenges.
• OGHS works in long-standing partnerships with denominations such as Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Presbyterian Church (USA), Church of the Brethren, and with ecumenical alliances such as Church World Service.

Now more than ever, our partnerships are essential and cherished.

Now more than ever, our assistance is crucial to support the homeless, the hungry, the victims of war.

Now more than ever, it is our privilege to offer tangible support which saves lives.

Give as you are able. Be the face of God’s love in the world. Thank you.

Upcoming Sunday Morning Opportunities…

Mark your calendars: there many special events offered both before and after worship!

• April 27, 9:00 a.m. Care of Creation Mission Team Presents: Gardening with Native Plants, with Jeff Epping; 9:00 a.m. New Members Class 4th Session; and also 11:15 am Presentation by members of the 2025 ORUCC Border Immersion Trip.

Java & Jesus adult faith formation will be in the Alfred Swan Room at the 9:00 hour on the following dates: May 4, 11, 18 and 25.

Senior Pastor: Rev. Dr. Julia Burkey EMAIL

Associate Pastor: Rev. Kate Mackey EMAIL

Associate Pastor: Rev. Ken Pennings EMAIL

Director of Children’s Arts and Education: Julie Mazer EMAIL

Office Manager George Decker

608-271-7212 or EMAIL



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