Our Ministries

Prayer Shawl Ministry

Creating and gifting Prayer Shawls has been a long-time mission of the FGUCC. The prayerful concern for the well-being of the recipient always goes into the creation, and we often hear just how timely or meaningful these gifts are.

The time spent together knitting prayer shawls for others is full of delightful conversation and loving concern for each other and our community. This group continued to evolve to meet the needs of its members and the community throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

We recently changed our knitting schedule. We will continue to meet via Zoom on the first Wednesday of the month and in person on the third Wednesday of the month, with the option to attend via Zoom for those members who have relocated but still want to gather. We will meet in the Fellowship Room from 2-4 to knit together.

We would love to have new members join this group, and welcome anyone who would like to participate. If you are a beginner, there are those willing to teach. If you are interested, please reach out to Susan Shepard or Elena Parker for more information.

Caring for our Community Auction!

The mission of the Forest Grove United Church of Christ’s annual Caring for Our Community auction is to create an event that offers silent and live auction donations to:
1) raise funds for other local non-profit agencies that will benefit from additional income,
2) raise funds for the general maintenance of the church,
3) raise funds for a particular project to improve the church,
4) Foster community by: a) inviting church members to join in the preparation process, and b) inviting members and others to join in a festive gathering and
5) create opportunities for “join-ins,” future events for smaller groups of people hosted by a donor.

Bus Transportation Ministry

The Bus Transportation Ministry provides bus rides to church for those who are otherwise unable to bring themselves to church. They pick up those who are at retirement centers or, who have disabilities that would otherwise make it hard to get to church on their own.

The Blessing Box Ministry

The Blessing Box is a grassroots organization that provides accessible, high-quality food to hungry neighbors through the generous donations of organizations, individuals and volunteer labor.

Volunteers gather once a week at the church to prepare food from donated ingredients. Community members contribute more food throughout the week, often anonymously, always generously. The church provides space for the storage of ingredients and supplies, and workspace including the kitchen. This work requires much time, effort, and passion. It is rarely glamorous but always fulfilling

Our history starts with a humble cupboard with two shelves that was donated in 2017 to share food with our neighbors and lovingly called the Blessing Box has become the miracle of the loaves and fishes. Before that garden boxes had been put in place to offer fresh produce accessible to everyone. After that, a refrigerator, freezer, canned goods shelf, and a dry goods cupboard were added. All of this is located together on the west side of the Forest Grove United Church of Christ property on Main Street – a highly visible and accessible site.

Stephen Ministries

FGUCC Stephen Ministries Program is to provide confidential individual care to people going through a difficult time. We look to train, empower, and support lay ministers to be Christ caring for people, through people.

If you need extra care, prayers, guidance or want someone to talk to during a troublesome time, Stephen Ministry can assist you. Please contact Renee Mills, or Ken Prickett

If you would like to become a Stephen Minister or would like more information, Renee Mills, Ken Prickett, or Pastor Brendan will answer any questions you may have.

Womens Spirit Group Ministry

The Forest Grove UCC Women’s Spirit Group is a group of women who gather on a regular basis to connect with each other through shared experiences. We aim to develop new skills, deepen our spiritual connections and empower one another while creating a sense of community.

Although most of our gatherings are intentionally for women from age 12-112, at times we plan events that are open to anyone. Those interested can attend one isolated event or as many of our events as they can. Some examples of gatherings have been: Card making for older members of the congregation who are unable to attend services regularly, leading a holiday sing-along at Jenning McCall Continuing Retirement Community, a book exchange and dinner, drumming circle, movie night, and a game night. Typically our group hosts a retreat that is local or within a 90-minute drive each year, and we encourage participation in the UCC Northwest Regional Women’s Retreat held every 3 years.

Please contact Sheila Harter or Melissa Timm to receive emails about upcoming events or for more information.

Family Promise
&
FGUCC

The mission of Family Promise is to end homelessness for families with children and help them achieve sustainable independence. Family Promise is a nonprofit organization that works with communities to provide resources that help families move from homelessness to home.

Our congregation supports this endeavor by providing meals, housing supplies, Christmas gifts, and money for these families. We are also able to volunteer to provide maintenance to the homes that house the families and participate in any fundraising activities

Nurture Ministry

The Christian Nurture Commission is a group of people focused on bringing comfort and joy to the members of our congregation. Nurture sponsors and hosts events throughout the year to foster community and fun. We offer our support to the children of the Learning Community and its teachers, and we endeavor to weave ourselves into the daily life of the church and its members to provide love, kindness, and support where we are needed in the ways we are able. The Nurture Commission is a small group, but we love our UCC community!

Parish Nurse Ministry

The of practice holistic healthcare for our congregation and community. To provide information, education, support, and referrals to our faith community, emphasizing the relationship between faith and health.
The premise of a Parish Nurse program is that when we are healthy and supported, it provides more space and energy for us to cultivate our faith.

Please feel free to contact the Parish Nurse via email at Deva Harris-Williams

Reiki Circle

INFO TO COME

Touchstones