News

Honoring Barbara Brown Zikmund

September’s newsletter highlights the light and life of Rev. Dr. Barbara Brown Zikmund. BBZ, as she was known by so many, was a brilliant scholar, minister, and trailblazer, but most importantly she was also a friend to many, a mother, a grandmother, and loving wife to her husband, Joe, for almost 65 years.

Resources in the newsletter include the Worship Engagement survey, the Mitten Project Grant Application, Annual Meeting Registration information, and upcoming event information for churches.

2027 Mitten Project Grant Application and the 2026 Worship Engagement Survey 

The August 2026 Faith Formation Newsletter is full of all the information you’ll need regarding the 2027 Mitten Project Grant Application AND the 2026 Worship Engagement Survey. As our youth prepare to start another school year, Jenn Ringgold also shares resources for curriculum as children, youth, and family ministry leaders also look at their fall and winter schedules.  Finally, don’t miss the many learning opportunities offered by the Damascus Project and Fall Retreat opportunities for Faith Formation leaders. 

Your gift is your legacy – August is “Make-A-Will” Month

August is “Make-A-Will” Month! Read on for resources about how to make your will for free and how it can be a blessing to the ministries and organizations you value most. This issue also discuss the top 5 reasons you might want to attend the 2026 Annual Meeting. These include workshops, our keynote speaker, and opportunities to share your voice and vote to shape the future of the Michigan Conference. Unique this year is a workshop title “One Anothering”  Registration is open until September 15th.  Register today for Annual Meeting.

Summer Youth Events and the 2027 Mitten Project Grant Application

The July 2026 Faith Formation Newsletter is here! It’s full of information about the Youth Voices Bold Faith event in Washington DC. See the youth in Washington D.C. in the image to the left, including 3 youth from Michigan.  Read on for the last chance to register for the Summer Event for the Mitten Project. Don’t forget to learn all about the 2027 Mitten Project Cohort Application. Look for learning opportunities offered by the Damascus Project.

“Re: July 4 Prayers of Preparation” by Lillian Daniel

This month’s issue of the Monthly Conference Newsletter holds details on Leadership Lunch, Rev. Daniel’s preaching schedule for the summer, and an important message from Associate Conference Minister Rev. Cheryl Burke. July’s issue also shares details of the upcoming annual meeting for the Michigan Conference. Registration begins July 1st, with early bird pricing ending on August 1st. Register today for Annual Meeting.

Pastor and Leader Resources for the 250th Anniversary of the USA & Mitten Project Summer Event Details

Read June 2026 Faith Formation Newsletter for information about the Summer Event for the Mitten Project, get book recommendations about Pride month, and more faith formation resources for your ministry!  Also included is a free downloadable resources for pastor and leaders over the Fourth of July holiday, including ways to celebrate the 250th Anniversary.

The Future of Open And Affirming, Call to Annual Meeting 2026, and a Recap of the Clergy Retreat

June’s issue of the Monthly Conference Newsletter has resources from the Open and Affirming Coalition, a recap on the Clergy Retreat, and information on upcoming trainings, webinars, scholarships, and the official “call to meeting” for the Annual Meeting of the Michigan Conference. 

Mitten Project, Damascus Project, and Networking Opportunities for Families

The May 2026 Faith Formation Newsletter has exciting updates for the Mitten Project, faith formation resources for the whole family,  and information regarding upcoming networking opportunities for parents and CYF leaders. 

Disaster Readiness and Response Among Michigan Congregations: Resources Available

Springtime in Michigan is known for bringing four different kinds of weather in one day, but this year, spring has brought volatile weather patterns, severe storms, and rising waters around much of Michigan. The May  2026 Conference Newsletter focuses on disaster readiness and response planning for clergy and congregations specifically. Read this issue for free resources, clear instructions in emergencies, and contact information for the Michigan Conference Disaster Response Coordinator. Learn more about resources for clergy care and formation, such as the Clergy Retreat being held May 27-29 at Tower Hill Camp and Retreat Center. 

Eastertide and Spiritual Renewal: Stepping Into Spring with the Michigan Conference

The April 2026 Conference Newsletter shares the exciting news of the upcoming Clergy Retreat May 27-29th at Tower Hill Camp and Retreat Center. This year’s theme is “Rage, Release, and Being Real” and is led by UCC clergy and Michigan Conference Staff. Registration discounts for MIDs (members in discernment), new pastors, and clergy new to Michigan along with support scholarships are available. Free Webinars regarding fundraising and stewardship are available as well; an upcoming boundary training event hosted by Associate Conference Minister Cheryl Burke is scheduled for June.