First Central and UCC help Pakistan

You have seen the news coverage of the catastrophic floods in Pakistan. The United Church of Christ has put out a special call for relief funds. Last week, with no advance notice, the people of First Central raised almost $500 in worship. First Central will also be contributing funds from our Brock Fund endowment for foreign mission to further the cause. This Sunday we will again invite the congregation to give above their normal tithes and offerings to support this on-going and extremely important relief effort. Please pray and consider how you can help.

Sincerely,
Nancy Northcutt, Chair of the Board of Mission and Outreach
Scott Jones, Senior Minister

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Pens, Pencils, Notebooks and the Smell of Books

Nothing quite makes me happy like the start of the school year. This special time of the year has always struck a chord with me. I can remember when I was in grade school that I loved the thrill of hunting for the perfect back-to-school outfit and finding the neatest school supplies. Now that I am much, much older and am going back to school for my graduate degree, I find that I still enjoy this special time. I love that buzz of energy that sits in the air, the sound of the marching band practicing in the morning and the nervous anticipation I feel as I begin this new chapter in my life.

What makes this new school year even more special is that I have a better understanding and appreciation for all the work that goes into making the academic year happen. My experience as an employee at various institutions of higher education and the stories that my teacher friends share, have given me a unique insight into the world of teaching and learning. I now know how much time, thought, energy and money goes into planning programs for each student’s success. Those who choose to teach and work for K-12 schools and colleges are truly wonderful people. They teach, build up, inspire, support, and create future leaders. What an amazing, yet overwhelming job!

Can you remember a teacher or academic experience that helped form who you are today? What do you enjoy about this special time of the year?

No matter if you are taking classes (and even if you are not) or even dropping little ones off at school, please take a moment to thank the staff members and educators in your life- they do so much more than just oversee programs, decorate classrooms and grade papers.

Posted by Hanna W.

Thought for the Day

Poverty is…10 people in a third floor two-bedroom apartment with no air conditioning.

Be thankful for what you have, folks and remember to help those who need your assistance.

Posted by the Blog Administrator.