Dear CCOV Family,
A few of us from CCOV have the exciting opportunity to attend the UCC Southwest Annual Conference, hosted by Rincon UCC in Tucson, from April 19-21. We have money in the budget for three or four of us to attend, so please let me know ASAP if you would like to be part of our church’s delegation. We will then will join our sister churches, hear what they are doing, and learn how we can better be the Church of Jesus Christ together. On Thursday, April 19, Rev. Alexia Salvatierra, a national leader in areas of poverty and immigration, will offer two “Faith Rooted Organizing Workshops” that provide a theological framework for faith-rooted organizing and social justice advocacy. We will learn all about strategies to engage fellow faith followers and community leaders and find out what the next steps are for action on specific public policy issues in Arizona. The conference proper is on April 20 and 21. As a delegate from CCOV, you will have a vote, participate in worship in a large-scale setting, and attend general, business, and break-out sessions. Rooms at the Radisson are reserved for us (April 18-21), and a number of meals are included. See me if you would like to go or want more information, and check out the annual conference page on the conference website: www.swcucc.org.

At church this Sunday we will continue with our Lenten series entitled “In the Upper Room: Jesus’ Final Lessons for His Disciples.” That night in the Upper Room was the last time Jesus would have with his disciples, so what he is saying to them is of utmost importance. Maybe you have been with someone in their final hours before they have died. Perhaps in those hours that person told you the things they too wanted you most to know. This week I will be talking about the practice of self-examination in light of Judas’ betrayal and Peter’s denial. To preview the scriptures ahead of time, you can read John 13:12-38 for this Sunday, February 25th, and John 14:1-27 for March 4th (Boy Scout Sunday), when I will be talking about the untroubled heart. As always, I look forward to seeing you in church!
Grace and Peace,
Rev. Sandi