Rev. Dr. Chuck Currie

What Does The Lord Require Of Portland? A Sermon On Nov. 13th At Ainsworth United Church of Christ

On Sunday, November 13th at 10am I will be preaching at NE Portland's Ainsworth United Church of Christ, my new home congregation. This is the community of faith I have joined while assuming the position of associate director at The Westar Institute. My sermon - What Does The Lord Require Of Portland? - will look back to the Hebrew Prophets and ministry of Jesus and seek to offer a word of hope and challenge for our city during a difficult period of time for Portland and the nation. I invite you to join me and to meet the wonderful congregation that makes Ainsworth come alive in unique ways each Sunday to carry forth the mission of the church in our city. Ainsworth is a multi-cultural, multi-racial, open & affirming, Just Peace and accessible church. 

"Let's Make A Joyful Noise!"

The 2011 Fall Gathering of the Central Pacific Conference of the United Church of Christ is underway.  Last night I joined delegates for dinner and a musical program called "Let's Make A Joyful Noise!" that showcased different musical styles being used in worship settings today - from traditional to folk to praise.  The workshops today all focus on music as well.  For me, it was a wonderful opportunity to see clergy colleagues and lay members across the region in the United Church of Christ, and to introduce my new role as the Associate Director of The Westar Institute.  Westar is a membership organization and (stealing a line from NPR) depends on the generous contributions from people like you.  As always, I was inspired to hear how our local UCC congregations are carrying out the work of the church in unique and diverse ways.  I left last night inspired.  

"Rev. Chuck Currie Named Associate Director Of The Westar Institute"

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

I'm excited to share the news that I've been named the new Associate Director of The Westar Institute, one of our nation's most important academic bodies focusing on the critical study of religion.  For many, the work undertaken by the Westar Institute is a beacon of hope to anyone wishing to embrace a spiritual life that has more intellectual integrity.  The Westar Institute is best known as the home of the Jesus Seminar.

Just recently The Westar Institute relocated from California to the campus of Willamette University.  Dr. Stephen Patterson, Geo. H. Atkinson Professor of Religious and Ethical Studies at Willamette University, is the director of The Westar Institute.  We've known each other both from Eden Theological Seminary in St. Louis and Salem's First Congregational United Church of Christ.

You can read more about my appointment on the website of The Westar Institute.  I hope that all my friends and colleagues will consider becoming a supporter of The Westar institute either as an associate member or as a contributor.  Biblical scholars can apply to become Westar Fellows.

And make sure you become a fan on Facebook!

I look forward to working with all those associated with The Westar Institute - but particularly with the membership and the churches that take advantage of the educational programs we offer.  

In addition, I look forward to continuing my work toward a Doctor of Ministry degree at Chicago Theological Seminary and will also be transferring my church membership to Ainsworth United Church of Christ in NE Portland, where our family lives.  Ainsworth UCC is a multi-racial, open and affirming, just peace church with a long tradition of active community involvement.  I will retain my standing as an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ.   

Sincerely,

 

Rev. Chuck Currie
Associate Director
Westar Institute

Read the press release from The Westar Institute below the fold: