Rev. Dr. Chuck Currie

Happy Halloween

Katherine and Frances practice tonight before knocking on the neighbors doors.

Do We Have A Right To Die? Assisted Suicide And The United Church of Christ

A group affiliated with at least two United Church of Christ clergy members in California has formed a new project - End of Life Consultation Service – that is drawing fire from those opposed to assisted suicide. The project will “will help terminal patients to access hospice, pain treatment, information on aid in dying options and other excellent end-of-life care,” according to the website of Compassion and Choice.

Click here for the full post.

CNN: Obama 'disturbed' by 'anti-gay' comments

WASHINGTON (CNN) — Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama said Monday he is "disturbed" by some of gospel-singer Donnie McClurkin’s views toward homosexuals, a day after the prominent Obama supporter lashed out at critics for calling him 'anti-gay.'

“It’s true we had a controversy…a gospel singer was singing at a gospel concert on our behalf, he was one of many, and he had some views that were anti-gay,” the Illinois Democrat said during an MTV/MySpace forum. “I am disturbed by those views and I have said publicly that I have disagreed with them.”

Click here for the full post.

Senator Obama has made several statements this week expressing his concern with Donnie McClurkin's views on homosexuality.  I appreciate his stance and understand the competing interests the campaign tried to satisfy in the wake of learning about Pastor McClurkin theology. 

Most of all I appreciate the ministry of The Rev. Andy Sidden, minister of Garden of Grace United Church of Christ in Columbia, SC.  Andy is a colleague in ministry and I've been fortunate to worship with him and his congregation.  He has been unfairly attacked by many bloggers who I suspect know nothing about what it is like to practice ministry as an openly gay man in South Carolina.  Every day of his ministry is a profile in courage and instead of focusing on that many have sought to dismiss Andy because he agreed to give the opening prayer at Obama's concert.  But what a witness he made.  In the unforgiving harshness of the national spotlight this man stood up for God when asked and prayed for reconciliation and justice.  He ought to be applauded and all those who have offered their uniformed armchair criticism ought to be ashamed.   

The Rev. Kate Lore!

What a great day! My good friend and colleague Kate Lore was ordained today as a minister in the Unitarian Universalist Association. We worked together at First United Methodist Church until she accepted the position as social justice director at First Unitarian Church of Portland. While in that position Kate earned her Master of Divinity degree at Meadville Lombard Theological School in Chicago by taking classes on a part-time basis (talk about keeping busy). Just minutes after being ordained she was installed as the new Minister of Social Justice for First Unitarian Church. I’m so proud to know Kate. She is one of the most committed people I've worked with in the world of social justice work and the people of First Unitarian Church are blessed to have her spirit on call as a clergyperson.

Photo credit: First Unitarian Church

Palestinian Conference Held At Boston's Old South Church

A conference held at a UCC church in Boston featuring Noble Peace Prize winner Desmond Tutu drew protesters this weekend.

READ THE FULL POST

We're Ready For Halloween

Our home in NE Portland

Oregon Religious Leaders: Yes On Measure 50

Press Release from Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon

A diverse group of Portland area religious leaders (this week) spoke out about their belief that Measure 50 is a fair and effective response to the crying moral injustice of more than 100,000 Oregon children who lack health care insurance.

Gathered at St. Philip the Deacon Episcopal Church, a historically African-American congregation in NE Portland, the faith leaders also responded to opposition arguments that Measure 50 is unfair to smokers.

The event was hosted by five religious and community non-profit organizations: Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon, the American Jewish Committee Oregon Chapter, the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland, the Oregon Center for Christian Values, and the Urban League of Portland.

David Leslie, the Executive Director of Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon noted that, “The faith leaders who have gathered here or who have endorsed Measure 50 includes Christian, Jewish and Muslim leaders throughout Oregon.  We may disagree on many articles of belief, but our diverse traditions agree on the need to care for all our children, and on the right of all persons to quality health care.” 

David Leslie also read a statement of support from Robert T. Hoshibata, the Resident Bishop, Oregon-Idaho Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church.  Bishop Hoshibata has publicly endorsed Measure 50. This is his statement: 

“Because I am traveling today I cannot be present with other representatives of our faith communities who are gathering to urge you to vote for Measure 50.  This measure promises to improve the quality of life for Oregonians by making it possible for children and the working poor to better access health care and medical insurance.  This will enable families to utilize more of their income for food and other critical necessities of life.  We cannot overestimate the many related benefits that will be realized by the passage of Measure 50.”

Lutheran Bishop David Brauer-Rieke expressed the support of the Oregon Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church for Measure 50; “"Social statements from our Church clearly recognize the health care crisis that is upon us.  We recognize our moral obligation to advocate on behalf of those who have little or no access to basic care and comfort.  Measure 50 offers support and needed services for our children, in many cases those who most need such care and are the least able to provide it for themselves.  The promised focus on rural health care and school based clinics is appropriate and functional.  Oregon youth deserve what Measure 50 offers and more."

The Rev. Alcena Boozer responded to tobacco company arguments that an increase in the tobacco tax is unfair to smokers, “African-American and Latino communities have disproportionately high rates of smoking-caused death and disease.  Tobacco companies often target young people in our communities in their efforts to recruit new smokers.  By increasing the tobacco tax, and using part of that money to fund anti-smoking education programs we can reduce the number of our young people who take up smoking -- and we fund the healthy kids program too.  It’s a double dose of good news for children’s health.”

Rabbi Michael Z. Cahana, the Senior Rabbi at Congregation Beth Israel described it as a “scandal” that more than 100,000 children in Oregon lack health insurance.  “Children without access to heath care don’t do as well in school.  They become sick more often and miss more school than their peers.  They often defer needed medical treatment, so that they end up in emergency rooms, where they receive extremely expensive care. Ultimately the lack of health insurance can even lead to unnecessary death or disability.” 

Rabbi Cahana continued, “Our religious teachings instruct us that we have a responsibility to take care of those who cannot take care of themselves. Jewish tradition teaches us that if we can save one life, it is as if we have saved an entire world, because each person’s potential is unlimited.  I support Measure 50 because it will help ensure that no Oregon child loses his or her life for lack of access to quality health care.” 

The Rev. Lynne Smouse López of Ainsworth United Church of Christ noted the high costs smoking imposes on all of us, “We all end up paying for the costs of tobacco use – through higher health insurance premiums and higher taxes.  By raising Oregon’s tobacco tax to the same level as it is in the state of Washington, we can recover some of those costs, and fund health care for children who desperately need it now.”

Stephanie Tama-Sweet, the Executive Director of the Oregon Center for Christian Values, spoke about the way she sees the life of Jesus related to the issue of health care for children, “When I look at the life of Jesus, it is absolutely clear that he cared for children. Jesus saw the beloved nature of children and recognized that God's intention was that they live a full and healthy and safe life. In our society based on politics and business and big money, though, kids are essentially voiceless in securing their own health and safety.  Voting Yes on Measure 50 is the most effective, most secure way that we can ensure that our children have the health care they deserve. Voting Yes on Measure 50 is one of the ways we can ensure our children experience the fullness of life that God intended.  Please join us in voting Yes on Measure 50."

Rev. Mark Knutson, of the Augustana Lutheran Church, said that faith communities are doing far more for Measure 50 than just holding press conferences, “Many of the organizations represented here today have supported the healthy kids program when it was a legislative proposal, and now that it is on the ballot many people of faith are involved in the Yes on 50 campaign.  I personally want to invite all people of faith to join us at Augustana Lutheran Church on Sunday October 28th for People of Faith Get Out the Vote Day, at 2:00 pm.”  Augustana Lutheran Church is located at 2710 NE 14th Ave., Portland, OR 97212.

FAITH LEADERS FOR MEASURE 50

Congregational names listed for identification purposes only.

Bishop Dave Brauer-Rieke, Oregon Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church
Bishop Robert T. Hoshibata, Oregon-Idaho Conference of The United Methodist Church
Rev. Alcena Boozer, St. Philip the Deacon Episcopal Church, NE Portland
Father Armando Lopez, OFM, Ascension Catholic Church, Portland
Father Donald R. Buxman, Christ the King Catholic Church, Milwaukee, OR
Rev. Dr. Dan Bryant, First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Eugene
Rabbi Michael Z. Cahana, Senior Rabbi, Congregation Beth Israel, Portland
Rev. J.W. Matt Hennessee, Senior Pastor, Vancouver Ave. First Baptist Church, N/NE Portland
Rev. Mark Knutson, Augustana Lutheran Church, Portland
Rabbi Annette Koch, Beit Haverim/South Metro Jewish Congregation
Rev. Chuck Currie, Parkrose Community UCC, Portland
Rev. Benjamin Dake, First Presbyterian Church, Cottage Grove
Pastor Karen Edwards, Faith Lutheran, Keizer
Rev. Lowell Greathouse, First United Methodist Church, Portland
Rev. Kent Harrop, First Baptist Church, McMinnville
Rabbi Daniel Isaak, Congregation Neveh Shalom, Portland
Rev. Gail McDougle, First Congregational Church (UCC), Salem
Rev. David Nagler, Nativity Lutheran Church, Bend
Rev. Lynne Smouse López, Ainsworth United Church of Christ, Portland
Rev. John Pitney, Pastor, FirSt United Methodist Church of Eugene
Rev. Cecil Prescod, Ainsworth UCC, Portland
Rev. Jim Boston, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Grants Pass
Shahriar Ahmed, President, Bilal Masjid Mosque, Beaverton
Rev. Barbara J. Campbell, St. Mark Presbyterian Church, Portland
Fr. John Reutter-Harrah, Pastor, Prince of Life Lutheran, Oregon City
Rev. Dr. Patricia Ross, First Congregational United Church of Christ, Portland
Rev. Dr. Marilyn Sewell, First Unitarian Church, Portland
Rev. Wendy Woodworth, Fremont United Methodist Church, Portland
Dale C. Harris, Retired United Methodist pastor
Gregory Hamilton, President, Northwest Religious Liberty Association
The Oregon Center for Christian Values
Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon
The Jewish Federation of Greater Portland
American Jewish Committee, Oregon Chapter

More On Barack Obama And The Donnie McClurkin Controversy

The on-going controversy – fueled in large part by blogs – over the appearance of Donnie McClurkin at a Barack Obama fundraiser proves one thing: Obama is a different kind of politician.

What Obama understands that some don’t is that to bring this country together you have to be both willing to stand up for progressive values and sit down at the table with those who disagree with you.

No one of any serious worth would question Obama’s overall commitment to the gay and lesbian community. But some want more than that: they want total fidelity to their point of view. That sounds a lot like fundamentalism to me. The Religious Right has for years told politicians and parishioners alike that it is their way or the highway straight to hell. We need to have more tolerant hearts.

The author of the blog Think On These Things wrote today:

There is no way to unify this country if people on both sides refuse to be in the same space as those with whom they disagree.

Amen to that.

African-American leaders and gay and lesbian leaders issued an important statement together on this subject.  In it they wrote:

As representatives of Barack Obama supporters from the African American religious community and the gay community, we are issuing a statement together for the first time.  Our letter addresses the recent issue of Pastor Donnie McClurkin singing at Senator Obama’s “Embrace the Change” concert series.  In the midst of division, we hope and believe that this is a moment to bring together communities that have been divided for far too long.

A few things are clear.

First, Pastor McClurkin believes and has stated things about sexual orientation that are deeply hurtful and offensive to many Americans, most especially to gay Americans.  This cannot and should not be denied.

At the same time, a great many African Americans share Pastor McClurkin’s beliefs.  This also cannot be ignored.

Finally, we believe that the only way for these two sides to find common ground is to do so together.

Not at arms length.  Not in a war of words with press and pundits.  Only together. 

It is clear that Barack Obama is the only candidate who has made bringing these two often disparate groups together a goal. In gatherings of LGBT Americans and African Americans of faith, Obama has stated that all individuals should be afforded full civil rights regardless of their sexual orientation, and that homophobia must be eradicated in every corner of our nation. If we are to end homophobia and secure full civil rights for gay Americans, then we need an advocate within the Black community like Barack Obama.

At the same time, while Obama has said that he "strongly disagrees" with Pastor McClurkin's comments, he will not exclude from his campaign the many Americans including many in the African American community who believe the same as Pastor McClurkin.

We believe that Barack Obama is constructing a tent big enough for LGBT Americans who know that their sexual orientation is an innate and treasured part of their being, and for African American ministers and citizens who believe that their religion prevents them from fully embracing their gay brothers and sisters. And if we are to confront our shared challenges we have to join together, build on common ground, and engage in a civil dialogue even when we disagree.

We also ask Senator Obama’s critics to consider the alternatives. Would we prefer a candidate who ignores the realities in the African American community and cuts off millions of Blacks who believe things offensive to many Americans? Or a panderer who tells African Americans what they want to hear, at the expense of our gay brothers and sisters? Or would we rather stand with Barack Obama, who speaks truth in love to both sides, pulling no punches but foreclosing no opportunities to engage?

Good for Senator Obama for standing up for the civil rights of gay and lesbian Americans. Good for Senator Obama for inviting my colleague The Rev. Andy Sidden to join the concert program. Good for Senator Obama for being secure enough in his own beliefs not to be afraid to share the stage with those he disagrees with. It’s good for America that we have at least some political leaders who do not bend with the wind.

Rev. Andy Sidden Joins Obama Concert in SC

WASHINGTON (AP) — In response to an uproar from gay activists, Democrat Barack Obama's presidential campaign on Wednesday added a gay minister to the lineup for its weekend gospel tour.

Gay activists had criticized Obama's "Embrace the Change" tour in South Carolina because the performers included gospel singer Donnie McClurkin, who says homosexuality is a choice.

Obama's campaign invited Rev. Andy Sidden, a South Carolina pastor who is openly gay, to appear on Sunday in Columbia. Obama discussed Sidden's inclusion Thursday with Joe Solmonese, president of the Human Rights Campaign, which supports gay rights.

In a statement, Solmonese said he thanked Obama for including Sidden but told the Illinois senator he was disappointed McClurkin will remain part of the program.

Full story

I've worshipped at Rev. Sidden's church - Garden of Grace United Church of Christ - and deeply appreciate his leadership in South Carolina.  We had a chance to talk on the phone last night and it reminded me again of how proud I am to have Andy as a colleague.   

United Church of Christ Responding to California Fires

I have a post up on the United Church News Blog with information on the relief efforts now under way by U.S. denominations in Calf. as the fires grow. Also included in the post is a status report on UCC congregations.

UCC Responding to California Fires

Senator Barack Obama's Statement On Donnie McClurkin Controversy

A controversy has erupted over the scheduled appearance of a gospel singer at a concert event for Senator Barack Obama's presidential campaign. Donnie McClurkin, a well know gospel star, reportedly has views that run counter to the Senator's on the issue of gay rights.  Senator Obama restated his views on the subject in a statement issued yesterday:

"I have clearly stated my belief that gays and lesbians are our brothers and sisters and should be provided the respect, dignity, and rights of all other citizens. I have consistently spoken directly to African-American religious leaders about the need to overcome the homophobia that persists in some parts our community so that we can confront issues like HIV/AIDS and broaden the reach of equal rights in this country.

I strongly believe that African Americans and the LGBT community must stand together in the fight for equal rights. And so I strongly disagree with Reverend McClurkin's views and will continue to fight for these rights as President of the United States to ensure that America is a country that spreads tolerance instead of division."

Senator Obama has a strong record of support for the GLBT community.  America needs leaders who will confront these issues head-on and who also keep lines of communication open to others who might disagree.  I'm confident that Barack Obama is that kind of leader. 

Related Post:  Hanging out with Barack Obama

Related Post:  Homosexuality and the Bible

Update:  Rev. Andy Sidden Joins Obama Concert in SC   

A Podcast Sermon On Philippians 4:12-13: "I can do all things through him who strengthens me."

This Sunday at Parkrose Community United Church of Christ our scripture readings included Psalm 121 and Philippians 4:12-13.  We focused our service this week around the topic of stewardship.

Use the below link to download the podcast of my sermon for your iPod or personal computer. 

Download ParkroseStewardship.m4a

(click with the RIGHT mouse button on the hyperlink and choose “Save Target As” and save to your desktop or other folder – once downloaded click on the file to listen).

Now On ITunes

You can now subscribe to my podcasts on ITunes.  Just open the ITunes application and use the search function to find

"Chuck Currie"

then click on the "Subscribe" button.

Colbert-Currie 2008?

Ever since Stephen Colbert announced his presidential campaign (in South Carolina) the speculation has been intense over whether or not I will be his running mate. I’ve been speculating about it all day. So will I run? Like Colbert, my home state is South Carolina. For over 300 years my family has been farming the state, selling the tobacco, running the libraries, delivering the babies and reporting the news. I’d bring geographic balance to the ticket. I’ve lived in Spartanburg, Columbia AND Charleston (Colbert has only lived in Charleston). My presence as Colbert’s vice-presidential candidate would also bring unusual good looks (as compared to say Dennis Kucinich) and intellectual heft (compared to say Dennis Kucinich) to the campaign. It is true that I’ve lived in Oregon since I was about 11 but I’ve spent plenty of summer vacations in the Palmetto State and know some of the best bars around Five Points beaches in the state. I own not one but two copies of Hootie and Blowfish’s first album. What I’m saying is that I’m prepared to lead on Day One of a Colbert-Currie Administration. How does all of this relate to my previous announced support of Barack Obama’s candidacy? Well, like Colbert, I’m not willing to let commitments get in the way of my lust for power (or a Doritos contract). Morals will never stop me on the road to the White House.  In short, I’d make a perfect successor to the incumbent vice-president. So if Colbert asks, I will serve. Our country doesn’t deserve me but I deserve a private air force jet, a nice car and driver and the legal authority to wire tap your phone.

Recall Bernie Giusto

Multnomah County deserves strong ethical leadership. What we’ve gotten instead over the last several years has been bungling incompetence (a problem thankfully under some repair now with new leadership on the county board). Unfortunately, this history of bad governance extends to the Sheriff’s Office where Bernie Giusto has presided over a disaster. As Multnomah County residents are aware, Giusto is under investigation for a series of ethical lapses. He should, of course, resign. But all indications are that he won’t. With his history of bad decision making the residents of our county cannot afford to wait several years before his term expires and he leaves office. Gisuto should be recalled from office now. If anyone is collecting signatures let me know. I want to add my name.

Oregon's Anti-Gay Campaigns Helped State (In Their Own Way)

Good news to mention: opponents of two new state civil rights laws here in Oregon – one banning discrimination in the work place against gays and lesbians and the other extending civil union benefits to same sex couples – have failed in their effort to collect enough signatures to force a vote on recalling the measures.

Over the last two decades the Religious Right has placed ballot measure after ballot measure before the voters attempting to curtail civil rights for the GLBT community.

The fights have always been ugly and cost millions.  It is a relief that this time we won’t have to spend energy here in Oregon debating once again the merits of providing basic civil rights for all people. 

On the other hand, I have to give credit where credit is due.  Without these ballot measures Oregonians would have never have been forced to confront the issue of civil rights for gays and lesbians so directly.  Our churches, for example, might never had to wrestle with the theological implications of saying to another “your life is not deserving of equal protection under the law.”

Most people know that these anti-gay campaigns have been waged by Christians.  Fewer know that these campaigns have also been opposed by Christians – Christians who have come to an understanding that God’s justice, love, mercy, and grace is available to all.  Without these anti-gay campaigns over the years fewer congregations in the Christian community would have ever declared themselves to be “Open and Affirming” or “Welcoming” or “Reconciling.”

No one knows the full extent of the damage done to people over the years as the initiatives have been debated.  The stress has to be enormous on people who know their rights are actually going be voted on.  That takes a toll, no question.

But the Religious Right never anticipated that one result of their efforts would be to extend the openness of many churches.  The anti-gay movement in Oregon has helped many to reject the more narrow impulses of Christian tradition and to shine a light of hope where before for many there was only darkness and emptiness in our sanctuaries.

Members of the Community of Welcoming Congregations

Our Member Congregations

• Buddhist
  • The Dharma Center, Klamath Falls ⇒
    9669 Highway 140 E.

    Klamath Falls, OR 97601 map
• Catholic
  • Journey/ Koinonia Catholic Community, Portland ⇒
    St. Stephens Episcopal Church
    SW 13th and Clay

    Portland, OR 97225 map
  • St. Andrew's Catholic Church, Portland ⇒
    806 NE Alberta St.

    Portland, OR 97211 map
  • St. Francis Of Assisi Catholic Church, Portland ⇒
    330 SE 11th Ave.

    Portland, OR 97214 map
  • St. Philip Neri Catholic Church, Portland ⇒
    2408 SE 16th Ave.

    Portland, OR 97214 map
• Catholic / Lutheran
  • Mission Of The Atonement, Beaverton ⇒
    7400 SW Scholls Ferry Road

    Beaverton, OR 97008 map
• Christian
  • Abiding Grace Fellowship, Vancouver ⇒
    10637 NE Coxley Drive, Ste. 108

    Vancouver, OR 98685 map
  • Divina Communis Projects, Portland ⇒
    8233 North Syracuse Street, Suite A

    Portland, OR 97203 map
• Church Of The Brethren
  • Peace Church Of The Brethren, Portland ⇒
    12727 SE Market St

    Portland, OR 97233 map
• Disciples Of Christ
  • The View Christian Church, Portland ⇒
    c/o Lynchwood Christian Church
    3815 SE 174th Ave.

    Portland, OR 97236 map
• Episcopal
  • St. Mary's Episcopal Church, Eugene ⇒
    166 East 13th Ave.

    Eugene, OR 97405-0980 map
  • St. Stephen's Episcopal Parish, Portland ⇒
    1432 SW 13th Ave.

    Portland, OR 97201 map
  • Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, Portland ⇒
    ATTN: Open & Welcoming Committee
    147 NW 19th Ave.

    Portland, OR 97209 map
• Jewish
  • Keshet Jewish Group, Portland ⇒
    Call David 503-226-7079 x14
    If no answer, call 503-684-1900 leave message

    Portland, OR  map
• Jewish (conservative)
  • Congregation Neveh Shalom, Portland ⇒
    2900 SW Peaceful Ln.

    Portland, OR 97201 map
• Jewish (liberal)
  • Congregation Shir Tikvah, Portland ⇒
    Bridgeport Community Church
    621 NE 76th

    Portland, OR  map
• Jewish (reconstructionist)
  • Havurah Shalom, Portland ⇒
    825 NW 18th Ave.

    Portland, OR 97209-2333 map
  • Temple Beth Israel, Eugene ⇒
    42 W 25th Ave.

    Eugene, OR 97405 map
• Jewish (reform)
  • Congregation Beth Israel, Portland ⇒
    1972 NW Flanders

    Portland, OR 97209 map
• Jewish (renewal)
  • P'nai Or, Portland ⇒
    9750 SW Terwilliger Blvd

    Portland, OR 97219 map
• Lutheran ( E L C A )
  • Augustana Lutheran Church, Portland ⇒
    2710 NE 14th Ave.

    Portland, OR 97212 map
  • Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Portland
    1244 NE 39th Ave

    Portland, OR 97232 map
  • Central Lutheran Church, Portland ⇒
    1820 NE 21st Ave.

    Portland, OR 97212 map
  • Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, Portland ⇒
    515 SW Maplecrest Dr.

    Portland, OR 97219 map
  • St. James Lutheran Church, Portland ⇒
    1315 SW Park

    Portland, OR 97219 map
• M C C
  • Metropolitan Community Church Of Portland, Portland ⇒
    2400 NE Broadway

    Portland, OR 97232 map
• Mormon
  • Affirmation ( Queer Mormons ), Portland ⇒
    Call for meeting times and locations.
    (971) 409-3463

    Portland, OR  map
• New Thought
  • New Thought Ministries Of Oregon, Beaverton ⇒
    Kingstad Conference Center
    15450 SW Millikan Way

    Beaverton, OR 97006 map
  • Portland Center For Spiritual Growth, Portland ⇒
    11307 NE Fremont Ct

    Portland, OR 97220 map
• Pagan
  • Sister Spirit, Portland ⇒
    Portland, OR 
• Presbyterian Church ( U S A )
  • Rose City Park Presbyterian Church, Portland ⇒
    1907 NE 45th Ave.

    Portland, OR 97213 map
  • Southminster Presbyterian Church, Beaverton ⇒
    12250 SW Denney Rd

    Beaverton, OR 97008 map
  • St. Mark Presbyterian Church, Portland ⇒
    9750 SW Terwilliger Blvd.

    Portland, OR  map
• Quaker
  • Fanno Creek Worship Group, Beaverton ⇒
    Catlin Gabel School - Dant House
    8825 SW Barnes Road

    Beaverton, OR  map
  • Freedom Friends Church, Salem ⇒
    2425 13th St. SE

    Salem, OR 97302 map
  • Multnomah Monthly Meeting, Portland ⇒
    4312 SE Stark

    Portland, OR 97215 map
• Unitarian Universalist
  • Atkinson Memorial Church, Oregon City ⇒
    710 Sixth St.

    Oregon City, OR 97045 map
  • Eastrose Fellowship Unitarian Universalist, Gresham ⇒
    1133 NE 181st Ave.

    Gresham, OR  map
  • First Unitarian Church, Portland ⇒
    1011 SW 12th Ave.

    Portland, OR 97205 map
  • Michael Servetus Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, Vancouver ⇒
    4504 E. 18th St.

    Vancouver, WA 98661 map
  • Mid-Columbia Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, Hood River ⇒
    Mid-Columbia Center for Living
    1610 Woods Ct

    Hood River, OR 97031 map
  • Unitarian Universalist Community Church Of Washington County, Hillsboro ⇒
    22785 NW Birch St

    Hillsboro, OR 97124 map
  • Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Of Corvallis, Corvallis ⇒
    2945 NW Circle Dr.

    Corvallis, OR 97330-3937 map
  • Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Of Klamath County, Klamath Falls ⇒
    9669 Highway 140 East
    P.O. Box 391

    Klamath Falls, OR 97601 map
  • Wy'east Unitarian Universalist, Portland ⇒
    3300 SE Woodstock Blvd.

    Portland, OR 97202 map
• United Church Of Christ
  • Ainsworth United Church Of Christ, Portland ⇒
    2941 NE Ainsworth

    Portland, OR 97211 map
  • All People's United Church Of Christ, Bend
    Bend, OR 
  • Beavercreek United Church Of Christ, Beaver Creek ⇒
    23345 S Beavercreek Rd.

    Beaver Creek, OR 97004 map
  • Bridgeport United Church Of Christ, Portland ⇒
    621 NE 76th Ave.

    Portland, OR 97213 map
  • Christ The Healer United Church Of Christ, Beaverton ⇒
    5150 SW Watson

    Beaverton, OR 97005 map
  • Clackamas United Church Of Christ, Milwaukie ⇒
    15303 SE Webster Rd.

    Milwaukie, OR 97267 map
  • Congregational United Church Of Christ, Klamath Falls ⇒
    2154 Garden Ave.

    Klamath Falls, OR 97601 map
  • First Congregational Church Of Vancouver, Vancouver ⇒
    1220 NE 68th

    Vancouver, WA 98665 map
  • First Congregational United Church Of Christ, Corvallis, Corvallis ⇒
    4515 SW West Hills Rd.

    Corvallis, OR 97333 map
  • First Congregational United Church Of Christ, Portland, Portland ⇒
    1126 SW Park Ave.

    Portland, OR 97205 map
  • First Congregational United Church Of Christ, Salem, Salem ⇒
    700 Marion St. NE

    Salem, OR 97301 map
  • Forest Grove United Church Of Christ, Forest Grove ⇒
    2032 College Way

    Forest Grove, OR 97116 map
  • Hillsdale Community United Church Of Christ, Portland ⇒
    6948 SW Capital Hwy

    Portland, OR 97219 map
  • Kairos - Milwaukie United Church Of Christ, Milwaukie ⇒
    4790 Logus Rd.

    Milwaukie, OR 97222 map
  • Lake Oswego United Church Of Christ, Lake Oswego ⇒
    1111 SW Country Club Rd.

    Lake Oswego, OR 97034 map
  • Meridian United Church Of Christ, Wilsonville ⇒
    6750 SW Boeckman Rd.

    Wilsonville, OR 97070 map
  • Parkrose United Church Of Christ, Portland ⇒
    4715 NE 106th Ave.

    Portland, OR 97220 map
  • United Church Of Christ Congregational Of The Dalles, The Dalles ⇒
    111 E 5th St.

    The Dalles, OR 97058 map
  • Waverly Heights United Church Of Christ, Portland ⇒
    3300 SE Woodward

    Portland, OR 97202 map
  • Zion United Church Of Christ, Gresham ⇒
    2025 NE 23rd

    Gresham, OR 97030 map
• United Methodist Church
  • First United Methodist Church, Corvallis ⇒
    1165 NW Monroe Ave.

    Corvallis, OR 97330 map
  • First United Methodist Church, Portland ⇒
    1838 SW Jefferson St.

    Portland, OR 97201 map
  • Metanoia Peace Community United Methodist Church, Portland ⇒
    2116 NE 18th Ave.

    Portland, OR 97212 map
  • Micah's Village - Christ The Reconciler UMC, Clackamas ⇒
    Sunnyside Grange
    SE 132nd and SE Sunnyside Road

    Clackamas, OR  map
  • Morningside United Methodist Church, Salem ⇒
    3674 12th St. SE

    Salem, OR 97302-3459 map
  • University Park United Methodist Church, Portland ⇒
    4775 N Lombard St.

    Portland, OR 97203 map
  • Vancouver Heights United Methodist Church, Vancouver ⇒
    5701 MacArthur Blvd.

    Vancouver, WA 98661 map

Affiliated Members

• Act for Action - Theater for All, Portland ⇒
  PO Box 14162

  Portland, OR 97293
• Interfaith Spiritual Center, Portland ⇒
  4619 N. Michigan
  enter on Going Street

  Portland, OR 97217
• Justice and Witness Ministry Team - CPC UCC, Portland ⇒
  c/o Aleita Hass-Holcombe
  0245 SW Bancroft Suite E

  Portland, OR 97239
• PFLAG Clackamas County, Oregon City ⇒
  Meetings at Atkinson Memorial Church
  710 Sixth Street

  Oregon City, OR 97045
• PFLAG Pendleton, Pendleton ⇒
  P.O. Box 755

  Pendleton, OR 97801
• PFLAG Portland, Portland ⇒
  P.O. Box 8944

  Portland, OR 97207

Campus Ministers and Chaplains

• Rev. Dr. Karen Wood, Willamette University ⇒
  Willamette University, 
• Rev. Gwen Morgan, Legacy Salmon Creek Hospital ⇒

             

Ann Coulter Wants To "Perfect" Jews

Ann Coulter – the warrior princess of the right – is back in the news with more vile statements. Her target this month: Judaism.

FULL STORY

UCC Leaders Arrested Outside White House

See the post on the United Church News Blog.

Today Is The Interfaith Fast to End The War

Today I'm participating with many others in the Interfaith Fast to End The War - another effort to draw attention to the need to end the Iraq War. Why this fast?

FULL POST

A Podcast Sermon For World Communion Sunday 2007: The Church Should Be Like The Table

This morning at Parkrose Community United Church of Christ we celebrated World Communion Sunday.  Our scripture readings included Psalm 37 and Luke 17:5-10.

World Communion Sunday, according to the National Council of Churches:

...originated in the Presbyterian Church (USA). In 1936, for the first time, the first Sunday in October was celebrated in Presbyterian churches in the United States and overseas.  From the beginning, it was planned so that other denominations could make use of it and, after a few years, the idea spread beyond the Presbyterian Church.

The Department of Evangelism of the Federal Council of Churches (a predecessor body of the National Council of Churches) was first associated with World Wide Communion Sunday in 1940 when the department’s executive secretary, Jesse Bader, led in its extension to a number of churches throughout the world.

Today, efforts to promote World Communion Sunday are carried out by participating denominations...

Use the below link to download the podcast of my sermon from today and our communion service for your iPod or personal computer.

Download ParkroseWCS.m4a

(click with the RIGHT mouse button on the hyperlink and choose “Save Target As” and save to your desktop or other folder – once downloaded click on the file to listen).

Now On ITunes

You can now subscribe to my podcasts on ITunes.  Just open the ITunes application and use the search function to find

"Chuck Currie"

then click on the "Subscribe" button.

Institute on Religion and Democracy Attacks Michael Kinnamon Nomination

It didn’t take long.

Today the Institute on Religion and Democracy criticized the nomination of Michael Kinnamon to serve as the new General Secretary of the National Council of Churches.

In a statement, IRD president Jim Tonkowich (a minister in a Presbyterian schism group opposed to the ordination of women) called Dr. Kinnamon “outside of the mainstream.”

Why does IRD care who serves as the General Secretary of the National Council of Churches?

FULL POST

Michael Kinnamon Nominated As New General Secretary of the National Council of Churches

The Rev. Dr. Michael Kinnamon has been tapped to serve as the new General Secretary of the National Council of Churches. Official word came just moments ago from UCC-related Eden Theological Seminary, where Dr. Kinnamon has served as the Allen and Dottie Miller Professor of Mission and Peace, and from NCC.

FULL STORY

What Matters Most?

This fall here at Parkrose Community United Church of Christ we’re using the “Saving Jesus” curriculum for our fall adult education class. We’re fortunate that members from two other area UCC congregations are joining us each week. Together we enjoy a meal (potluck, of course) and then spend two hours talking theology. Tonight we talked about issues surrounding the incarnation and explored the meaning of transcendence. 

FULL POST

Public Theology at UCC-related Chicago Theological Seminary

UCC-related Chicago Theological Seminary is offering a course this fall called “Public Theology.” The Rev. Dr. Susan Thistlethwaite, president of the seminary and professor of this class, says that the learning goals include being able to “accurately identify theological issues in public discourse” to be able to discuss those issues through the use of traditional media and new media (the internet and blogs).

In fact, one of the assignments is for each student to publish a blog. Less than one month into the class many of the students have already gone online.

Check out these sites:

FULL POST