The Council of Churches of Greater Bridgeport

In the interest of keeping our partner congregations up-to-date regarding Council activities, we offer these monthly "Council Highlights" to be published in monthly newsletters or distributed to parishioners as bulletin inserts.

Council Highlights

Up for bids are two great outings for you and a friend and one family fun day! Friends of The Council of Churches have donated these items – proceeds will benefit CCGB.

Here's how it works….send your bid to ccgbauction@gmail.com . We'll keep you up to date on how the bids are going, just in case you want to increase your amount.

Item 1: Two tickets to the hilarious Broadway play, Sister Ac t at the Broadway Theatre, located at Broadway and 53rd Street in Manhattan . These tickets are for any weeknight performance before May 26, 2012. So bid quickly! (Minimum Bid: $75)

Item 2: Take your significant other to any performance during the 2012 Mainstage Season at the Westport Country Playhouse . Voucher expires November 3, 2012. (Minimum Bid: $50)

Item 3: Take the kids to the Stepping Stones Museum in Norwalk , Connecticut with these two family passes. Each pass is good for up to four people and has no expiration date. (Minimum Bid: $50)

The highest bid received by 5:00 pm on the closing day (either April 27 th or May 8) will win! Once we notify you that you've won, we must receive payment by May 11 th (send us a check or pay by credit card online – go to www.ccgb.org and click on the justgive.com link…it's that easy!)

Project Learn ~ turning students into scholars Project Learn has been chosen as one of three community programs to benefit from the funds raised by

Fabrics and Fabrications – a Quilt Exhibit at Southport Congregational Church, which will take place from March 1 to March 3rd , with a Preview Party on Thursday, March 1 from 6 to 8 pm. Quilts will be displayed in the Sanctuary and Chapel. There will also be a Fabrications Boutique offering handmade needlepoint, quilted and knitted treasures for sale. For more info rmation, visit www.fabricsandfabrications.org . Come enjoy the exhibit and support Project Learn at the same time! Save the Date : October 12, 7 pm Project Learn's Concert at Stratford United Methodist Church .

6 th Annual Art from Prison Auction/Exhibit The Council's CO-OP Center invites you to enjoy Art from Prison at the 305 K Gallery at 305 Knowlton St, Bridgeport beginning on Monday, March 5 and culminating with a reception and final bidding on Friday, March 9. Exhibit viewing and reception times : 3 to 6 pm Monday through Thursday and 3 to 7 pm on Friday, March 9 . Artists in the Community Partners in Action's Prison Arts Program donate their art work for this exhibit. Proceeds from the sale of this art support the CO-OP Center scholarship fund set up at Housatonic Community College to give our clients partial scholarships to start on their college career. If you would like to help with this event, or for more info rmation, contact Dan Braccio at danbraccio@ccgb.org .

Janus Center for Youth in Crisis ~ caring for Youth in Crisis The Janus Center is seeking to recruit two additional community Host Homes for the purpose increasing the capacity of the number of youth who will benefit from this service. A Host Home is a family or individual who voluntarily opens its home for a youth between the ages of 11-17 years old who is in need of temporary shelter, board and care. They offer the youth a stable and caring environment. If you would like more info rmation, please contact Dale Holder , Janus Center Program Director, at 203 367-8441 x 221 or daleholder@ccgb.org .

Annual Youth Conference – March 25, 2012, Sacred Heart University , 1:30 to 5 pm. Theme: Expectations ; The Youth Conference is for college and high school students, although some junior high youth can be accommodated on request. To register or for info rmation, contact Richetta Joyner richettaj@ccgb.org or 203.334.1121.

Good Friday Community Service , Friday, April 6, Noon – 3 p.m., Golden Hill United Methodist Church . Contact Brian Bodt, brianbodt@ccgb.org or 203.334.1121, ext. 233.

Tent of Abraham : April 29, 2012; 1 to 6 pm; Congregation Rodeph Sholom, 2385 Park Avenue , Bridgeport , 06604. Interfaith Community Clean-up and gardening, with reflections on faith-in-action. Contact Rev. Sarah D. Smith, Esq: revsara.smith@uccbridgeport.org or 203.335.3107.

Greater Bridgeport Crop Walk : Sunday, May 6 th ; 1pm at United Congregational Church, 877 Park Avenue , Bridgeport , CT 06604 . Contact Carole J. Fanslow at 203.375.1284.

CCGB Annual Meeting , Tuesday, May 8th, 6:30 p.m., United Congregational Church 877 Park Avenue , Bridgeport , CT 06604 Contact Brian Bodt, brianbodt@ccgb.org or 203.334.1121, ext. 233 or Patty Jensen , pattyjensen@ccgb.org 203.334.1121, ext. 243.

The Council of Churches of Greater Bridgeport
Highlights – December 2011

The Angel Giving Guide: For 28 years, our annual Holiday fundraiser, The Angel Giving Guide, has proven to be a wonderful vehicle for showing appreciation for the Angels in your life during the holiday season! A Bridgeport doctor uses the Tribute gift option to honor colleagues. Realtors in a Fairfield office make a communal gift. Area congregations honor their pastors; a businessman does the same for his staff. A family uses “Angel” notes as stocking stuffers ~ there are many ways to sow seeds! Those you name receive a note telling them that you think they are “An Angel!” Inside the note will be an “angel ornament” for holiday display made of seeded paper that, when planted in the spring, will grow beautiful wildflowers. This inexpensive token reminds donors and honorees of the abundant harvest promised by the apostle: “…the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” (2 Corinthians 9:6) Copies are available on-line at www.ccgb.org or by emailing or phoning pattyjensen@ccgb.org or 334-1121, ext. 243.

Project Learn ~ Turning Students into Scholars
The Jill Chase Dance Studio will present Kidspirit to benefit Project Learn on Saturday, December 10th at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 4070 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, 06604. Doors open at 11:30 am. Call Sean Campbell at 334.1121 x 244 or seancampbell@ccgb.org for information.

Janus Center ~ Caring for Youth in Crisis
The Janus Center is seeking to recruit two additional community Host Homes to increase our capacity to serve youth between the ages of 11 to 17 who are facing crisis situations and are in need of temporary shelter, board and care. A Host Home is a family, household or individual who voluntarily offers the youth a stable and caring environment and provide him/her with a constructive and consistent living situation for up to two weeks. If you would like to know more information, please contact Dale Holder, Janus Center Program Director, at 203 367-8441 x 221 or daleholder@ccgb.org .

CO-OP Center ~ Creating Second Chances
1. Would your congregation be willing to collect hygiene supplies twice a year for CO-OP Center clients?
2. Can your church collect 10 used coats for us to give away to men or women returning to the community?
If your church would like to help in either of these ways, please contact Dan Braccio at 203 367-8441 x 231 or
Danraccio@ccgb.org.

Save The Date: Sunday, January 22, 2012, Week of Prayer for Christian Unity ecumenical worship, St. John’s Episcopal Church, 768 Fairfield Avenue, Bridgeport, 06604. Featured speaker will be the Rev. David Spollett of First Church, Congregational, Fairfield. Friday, March 2, 2012 ~ CCGB’s Spring FlingFUNdraiser at the Downtown Cabaret Theatre will feature the songs of legendary performers, Elton John and Billy Joel! The 2012 Faith and Community Award will be presented to St. John’s Episcopal Church, Bridgeport. Tickets at $65 per person include sumptuous appetizers, wine, beer and other beverages during the reception preceding the performance. People are encouraged to bring their own picnic-style dinner to enjoy during the show. Invitations will mailed at the end of January and posted at www.ccgb.org. Hope you will join us for a really FUN evening!

The Angel Giving Guide: The 28th edition of our annual Holiday fundraiser, “The Angel Giving Guide,” should arrive soon. Those on our mailing list will receive a copy in the mail. Others may obtain one on-line at www.ccgb.org; through local congregations; or by emailing or phoning pattyjensen@ccgb.org or 334-1121, ext. 243. This is a great vehicle for showing appreciation for the Angels in your life this holiday season! A Bridgeport doctor uses the Tribute gift option to honor colleagues. Realtors in a Fairfield office make a communal gift. Area congregations honor their pastors; a businessman does the same for his staff. A family uses “Angel” notes as stocking stuffers ~ there are many ways to sow seeds! Those you name receive a note telling them that you think they are “An Angel!” Inside the note will be an “angel ornament” for holiday display made of seeded paper that, when planted in the spring, will grow beautiful wildflowers. This inexpensive token reminds donors and honorees of the abundant harvest promised by the apostle: “…the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” (2 Corinthians 9:6)

Project Learn ~ Turning Students into Scholars
The Jill Chase Dance Studio will present a dance recital to benefit Project Learn on Saturday, December 10th at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 4070 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, 06604. Doors open at 11 am. Call Sean Campbell at 334.1121 x 244 or seancampbell@ccgb.org for information.

Janus Center ~ Caring for Youth in Crisis
The Janus Center is seeking to recruit two additional community Host Homes for the purpose increasing the capacity of the number of youth who will benefit from this service. A Host Home is a family, household or individual who voluntarily opens its home for a youth between the ages of 11-17 years old who is in need of temporary shelter, board and care. They offer the youth a stable and caring environment and provide him/her with a constructive and consistent living situation. . If you would like to know more information, please contact Dale Holder, Janus Center Program Director, at 203 367-8441 x 221 or daleholder@ccgb.org .

CO-OP Center ~ Creating Second Chances
Anthony Smith was honored at the CO-OP Center Client Recognition Award event at First Church Congregational during the Board of Directors’ meeting on October 6. According to staff at Isaiah 61:1, where Mr. Smith lives, “Anthony is dedicated, faithful, hardworking and focused on his goal to take care of himself, family, and to never return to prison”. Anthony is also enrolled at Housatonic Community College and is pursuing a Human Services degree. Despite Anthony’s transition from incarceration to the community, he has managed to work hard, stay positive and save a substantial amount of money within four months. Anthony is a great example of how individual determination to become self-sufficient, with help from community collaborations, can result in SUCCESS. Congratulations!

Would your congregation be willing to collect hygiene supplies twice a year for CO-OP Center clients? CO-OP Center also welcomes your donation of a gently used warm winter coat for men during the months of November and December. We prefer men’s coats in sizes L, XL, and XXL. If so, please contact Dan Braccio, CO-OP Center Program Director, at 203 367-8441 x 231 or danbraccio@ccgb.org. Thank you.

Please save these dates: Sunday, November 20, 2011; 7 p.m.: Interfaith Thanksgiving Celebration at United Congregational Church, 877 Park Avenue (at State Street), Bridgeport, 06604. Music for choirs and congregation; dance; and sacred writings; all from Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Food drive and offering for "Feel the Warmth" food ministry at United. Sunday, January 22, 2012, Week of Prayer for Christian Unity ecumenical worship, St. John’s Episcopal Church, 768 Fairfield Avenue, Bridgeport, 06604. Featured speaker will be the Rev. David Spollett of First Church, Congregational, Fairfield. Friday, March 2, 2012 ~ CCGB’s Spring Flingfundraiser at the Downtown Cabaret Theatre will be an Elton John and Billy Joel tribute featuring the songs of these legendary performers! Details to follow in the December “Highlights.”

October is Council Month!
Member congregations are asked to observe“Council Month” one Sunday in October, 2011 (or any other Sunday). Council Month lifts and celebrates our partnership in mission with member congregations. We provide tools to inform and inspire our members about the ways we use your mission giving to “turn faith into action…helping people at risk meet their urgent needs.” To date 30 member congregations have agreed to participate.

No fund-raising is intended with this observance. Some congregations choose to receive a special offering but our goal is sharing news of our ministry. If you want to know more about observing Council Month, please contact Patty Jensen at pattyjensen@ccgb.org or 203.334.1121, ext. 243.

Council Marathon Benefit: Rev. Dr. Brian Bodt will run his sixth marathon the October 9th at the Steamtown Marathon in Scranton, PA as a benefit for The Council of Churches. As of early September, he has raised 65% of his $20K goal with just more than a month to go. If you would like to contribute, please contact him at brianbodt@ccgb.org or 334.1121, ext. 233.

Project Learn ~ Turning Students into Scholars
Project Learn’s Annual Benefit Concert will be held on October 14 at 7 pm at Stratford United Methodist Church, 2600 Main Street, Stratford, 06615. Featured performers are members of the Norma F. Pfriem Children’s Choir and The Neighborhood Studios Jazz Ensemble. After-school programming has begun, with a new site at Salem Lutheran Church at 3160 Park Avenue in Bridgeport. The following school supplies are needed: paper, pencils, pens, notebooks, markers, pencil sharpeners, calculators, binders, loose leaf paper, book bags, construction paper, flash cards and book covers. If you are interested in providing some of these items and/or volunteering, please contact Sean Campbell at 203-334-1121 ext. 244 or seancampbell@ccgb.org.

CO-OP Center ~ Creating Second Chances for Former Offenders
CO-OP’s Annual Client Recognition Event will take place from 5:15 to 6 pm on Thursday October 6th at First Church Congregational, UCC; 148 Beach Road, Fairfield 06824; if you are interested in attending, contact Dan Braccio, danbraccio@ccgb.org or 203.334.1121, ext. 231

Hunger Outreach ~ Coordinating Area Feeding Initiatives
H NGER ~ the problem can’t be solved without “U”!! Please consider renewed efforts in collecting non-perishable food items ~ If you’d like information on what kinds of food to collect or a list of feeding programs, call Byron Crosdale at 334.1121 x 249 or byroncrosdale@ccgb.org. To those who serve in community suppers and pantries all year long, our hearty thanks.

Local church leaders will offer workshops on “vital worship,” “embracing diversity,” “extravagant hospitality,” “healing ministry” and “contemplation.” These are five of ten “signposts” in Christianity for the Rest of Us by Diana Butler Bass.

The Council of Churches will also present an overview of its new
mission strategy,”Life Cycle Management.”

The conference is open to all clergy and laity from the churches of Greater Bridgeport. You may register now with Richetta Joyner at richettaj@ccgb.org or 203.334.1121, ext. 233, or await registration forms and names of workshop leaders which will be sent in late August.

At CCGB's Annual Meeting on May 5th we unveiled a video that tells the story of our mission and the good work we accomplish in our community, with the support and involvement of our member churches. CCGB staff members are always eager to tell our story ~ this 7 minute video provides a perfect launch for presentations to church mission / outreach boards or to Adult Forums. Call 203.334.1121 x 243 if you would like to schedule such a presentation. The video is the culmination of months of creative filming and editing by Ellen Davis (Producer and Director) and the GE Digital Media Communications Group. We offer special thanks to Paul Bueker and Gus Serra of GE Community Relations for covering all expenses related to the project, as well as to Danny Wisneski, manager of GE Digital Media Communications and his team.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
When people give their best, The Council of Churches does its best.

If you like working with young children, you can be a mentor or tutor with Project Learn every week or every month. If you would rather commit once or twice a year, please consider hosting or funding a summer picnic or holiday party for our kids. Contact Sean Campbell at seancampbell@ccgb.org .

Do you have experience with computers and/or teaching? CO-OP Center would love to have you help with our computer training or high school equivalency classes- either teaching or tutoring. Contact Dan Braccio at danbraccio@ccgb.org .

If community events are more to your liking, Bridge Building could use your time organizing and presenting opportunities to bring together diverse people and community around vital issues such as Poverty, Hunger, Affordable Housing, and Health Care. Contact Larri Mazon at lwmazon@gmail.com.

Maybe you would like to invest expertise in Finance, Marketing, or Fundraising. Then the Board of Director Task Forces or Sub-Committees might be just the thing. Contact John Cottrell at johncottrell@ccgb.org .

The 39 feeding programs in our Hunger Outreach Network are always looking for dedicated volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering, contact Byron Crosdale at byroncrosdale@ccgb.org.

Do you want to be an advocate for youth? The Janus Center for Youth in Crisis could use your help in spreading the word about the services that they offer. You could conduct periodic Safe Place audits at one of our 57 safe place sites, or you could hand out program material at a community event. To find out how you can get involved, contact Dale Holder at daleholder@ccgb.org.

Project Learn has been chosen as one of three community programs to benefit from the funds raised by Fabrics and Fabrications – a Quilt Exhibit at Southport Congregational Church, which will take place from March 3 to March 5th , with a Preview Party on Thursday, March 3 from 6 to 8 pm. Quilts will be displayed in the Sanctuary and Chapel. There will also be a Fabrications Boutique offering handmade needlepoint, quilted and knitted treasures for sale. For more information, visit www.fabricsandfabrications.org. Come enjoy the exhibit and support Project Learn at the same time!

Beyond the unique and exceptional art work donated by the artists from the Prison Arts Program, our 5^th Annual Art from Prison Auction includes some terrific prizes you can bid on. Here are some examples:

Visit www.ccgb.org to bid on these items and plan on coming to the closing auction and reception at 305 K Gallery, 305 Knowlton St., Bridgeport on Friday, March 25 from 5:30 – 7 pm.

The Janus Center for Youth in Crisis seeks a full-time Case Manager. Competitive candidates will have a Bachelors Degree in Human Services or related field, experience working in youth services, ability to work independently with people of all racial and ethnic backgrounds, and strong interpersonal skills. Interested applicants, with a desire to help “at-risk” youth and their families, will email a current resume and cover letter electronically to richettaj@ccgb.org. Please put Janus Center Director/ Case Manager in the subject line.

The Hunger Outreach Network, coordinated by The Council of Churches, is a point of contact for food donations and volunteer service to 37 area feeding programs. If you are interested in organizing a non-perishable food drive, call 203.334.1121 and ask to receive a list of the registered programs with contact information.

Sunday, April 3, 2011 – The 2011 Annual Youth Conference, designed to engage members of your senior high youth groups ~ through facilitated dialogue, the teens will explore the various aspects of “Identity.” Location: Sacred Heart University, 5151 Park Ave., Fairfield, CT 06824, Free refreshments and pizza supper provided. Register with richettaj@ccgb.org or call 203.334.1121. Reception: 1:30 p.m. Conference: 2—6 p.m.

Thursday, April 7, 2011 ~ CCGB’s Spring Fling FUNdraiser, at the Downtown Cabaret Theatre featuring highly acclaimed and very funny Nunset Boulevard. As part of the evening’s program, Nichols United Methodist Church will be honored with The Council of Churches’ 2011 Faith and Community Award. Ticket will cost the same as last year at $65 per person. A reception with hearty appetizers and beverages precedes the program and play. Join us!

Our annual Christmas/holiday fundraiser, “The Angel Giving Guide,” was mailed late October and is on-line at www.ccgb.org. It has also been presented in many of our member congregations. The website and Guide make it easy to give a “tribute” gift to The Council in honor or memory of special “angels” in your life. Contact Patty Jensen at pattyjensen@ccgb.org or 334-1121, ext. 243 for more information.

When making holiday shopping plans please keep Janus Center for Youth in Crisis in mind. Many of the parents of the youth that we serve cannot afford to by gifts for their children. The Janus Center seeks donations of the following items: journal writing set, journal and poetry book, men’s hooded sweat shirt, men’s winter jacket, men’s wallet, twin sheet and comforters sets. Please contact Dale Holder/ Program Director @ 203-334-1121 x221 or daleholder@ccgb.org.

CO-OP Center seeks a volunteer(s) to teach a two-session six-hour Introduction to Microsoft EXCEL course to our clients three times per year. Class times available all day Monday, and Tuesday through Friday in the mornings. Class size: six students. Contact Dan Braccio at 203 367-8441 x 231, or danbraccio@ccgb.org.

Please join us on Saturday, December 18^th for the Jill Chase dance recital. Doors open at 11 am at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 4070 Park Avenue, Bridgeport. Lunch will be served, with the holiday musical theater production performed by the talented students of the Jill Chase Dance Studio beginning at noon. All proceeds from this event benefit Project Learn, a program of The Council of Churches of Greater Bridgeport. For more information, contact Sean Campbell at 203.334.1121 x 244 or seancampbell@ccgb.org.

Thanks to all who recently supporting our “Tent of Abraham” interfaith presentation and dialogue on October 27^th and November 3^rd at Fairfield University on the banking and mortgage crisis.

The Hunger Outreach Network, coordinated by The Council of Churches, is a point of contact for food donations and volunteer service to 40 area feeding programs. Contact Byron Crosdale at 334-1121, ext. 249 or byroncrosdale@ccgb.org.

Please save these dates: Sunday, January 23, 2011, 6 p.m. Week of Prayer for Christian Unity ecumenical worship, St. John’s Episcopal Church, 768 Fairfield Avenue, Bridgeport, 06604. Featured preacher is the Rev. Dr. Anthony L. Bennett, Senior Pastor at Mount Aery Baptist Church, Bridgeport Details to follow in the December “Highlights.” Sunday, April 3, 2011 – The 2011 Annual Youth Conference, designed to engage members of your senior high youth groups ~ through facilitated dialogue, the teens will explore a “hot topic” – details to follow. Thursday, April 7, 2011 ~ CCGB’s Spring Fling fundraiser, at the Downtown Cabaret Theatre featuring highly acclaimed and very funny Nunsense Boulevard.

November 2010

The Angel Giving Guide: The 27^th edition of our annual Holiday fundraiser, “The Angel Giving Guide,” should arrive soon. Those on our mailing list will receive a copy in the mail. Others may obtain one on-line at www.ccgb.org; through local congregations; or by emailing or phoning pattyjensen@ccgb.org or 334-1121, ext. 243. This is a great vehicle for showing appreciation for the Angels in your life this holiday season! A Bridgeport doctor uses the Tribute gift option to honor colleagues. Realtors in a Fairfield office make a communal gift. Area congregations honor their pastors; a businessman does the same for his staff. A family uses “Angel” notes as stocking stuffers ~ there are many ways to sow seeds! Those you name receive a note telling them that you think they are “An Angel!” Inside the note will be an “angel ornament” for holiday display made of seeded paper that, when planted in the spring, will grow beautiful wildflowers. This inexpensive token reminds donors and honorees of the abundant harvest promised by the apostle: “…the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” (2 Corinthians 9:6)

The Tent of Abraham presents “Show Me the Money” a 2-part series examining banking and its place in Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Part 1: Wednesday, October 27^th ; Part 2: Wednesday, November 3^rd – both programs take place from 7 to 9 pm at The Oak Room, Barone Campus Center, Fairfield University – 1073 North Benson Road, Fairfield, CT 06824. For information and to register email or phone Richetta Joyner at richettaj@ccgb.org or 334.1121. This series in co-sponsored by The Council of Churches’ Bridge Building Ministry, the American Institute for Islamic and Arabic Studies, The Bridgeport Islamic Center and the Jewish Center for Community Service.

Project Learn ~ Turning Students into Scholars

The Jill Chase Dance Studio will present a dance recital to benefit Project Learn on Saturday, December 18^th at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. Doors open at 11 am. Call Sean Campbell at 334.1121 x 244 for information.

CO-OP Center ~ Creating Second Chances

Michelle Mucha, Isabelle Melendez, and Sam Robles were honored at the CO-OP Center Client Recognition Award event at First Church Congregational during the Board of Directors’ meeting on October 7. Each of them embodied a “success” story that reflected the hard work that they have put into their reentry efforts. Michelle said, “I’d like to thank CO-OP for everything they’ve done for me. They’ve shown me a second chance…just from the help you’ve given me I know I can do anything and have a great future for myself and my family.” We congratulate all of them for their successes!

Would your congregation be willing to collect hygiene supplies twice a year for CO-OP Center clients? CO-OP Center also welcomes your donation of a gently used warm winter coat for men during the month of November 2010. We prefer men’s coats in sizes L, XL, and XXL. If so, please contact Dan Braccio, CO-OP Center Program Director, at 203 367-8441 x 231 or danbraccio@ccgb.org. Thank you.

Please save these dates: Sunday, January 23, 2011, 6 p.m. Week of Prayer for Christian Unity ecumenical worship, St. John’s Episcopal Church, 768 Fairfield Avenue, Bridgeport, 06604. Details to follow in the December “Highlights.” Sunday, April 3, 2011 – The 2011 Annual Youth Conference, designed to engage members of your senior high youth groups ~ through facilitated dialogue, the teens will explore a “hot topic” – details to follow. Thursday, April 7, 2011 ~ CCGB’s Spring Fling fundraiser, at the Downtown Cabaret Theatre featuring highly acclaimed and very funny Nunsense Boulevard.

October 2010

Council Sunday will be recognized on Sunday, October 3rd in many member congregations. The goal of Council Sunday is to thank, inform and inspire our member churches through a brief presentation by church delegates or Council staff or volunteers. Resources to observe Council Sunday may be obtained from Richetta Joyner at richettaj@ccgb.org or call 334-1121.

Council Marathon Benefit: the Rev. Dr. Brian Bodt will run his fifth marathon the October 10^th at the Steamtown Marathon in Scranton, PA as a benefit for The Council of Churches. His fundraising goal is $20,000 – he is more than halfway there! If you would like to help propel him to the finish line, please contact him at brianbodt@ccgb.org or 334.1121, ext. 233.

Project Learn ~ Turning Students into Scholars ~ Project Learn’s Annual Benefit Concert, featuring guest violinist Darwin Shen, will be on Friday, October 15 at 7 pm at Stratford United Methodist Church, 2600 Main Street, 06615. Cost: Adults $10; children (12 and under) $5. Call Sean Campbell, Program Director, at 224.1121 x 244 for more information.

Janus Center ~ Caring for Youth in Crisis ~ We rent two gender-specific host-home apartments, each with a caring host home parent prepared to offer a structured, supervised environment to kids. Dale Holder, program director, says the following items are needed still needed for our 2 host home apartments, where kids who need some time apart can have temporary respite care ~ call him at 334-1121 x 221 or email daleholder@ccgb.org if you can help. Twin Comforters, Sheets (twin), Towels, Face Clothes, Hand Towels, Toothbrush/ Toothpaste, Deodorant, Soap, Shampoo/Conditioner, Lotion, Hair Brushes/Combs

CO-OP Center ~ Creating Second Chances ~ JOB OPENING: ADULT EDUCATION TEACHER. Career Resources is seeking an experienced adult education/GED teacher for its program for former offenders offered at CO-OP Center and Maple Street house. We are seeking a skilled teacher who has experience working successfully with former offenders. A full-time position with excellent benefits is possible. Please contact Joe Rietano at rietano@careerresources.org with a resume and letter of interest as soon as possible.

CCGB Staff Notes: We bid a fond “fare-thee-well” to Jack Hickey-Williams, long time Council Associate and Consultant for our Bridge Building Ministry as he segues into retirement and travels. We bid Godspeed to the Rev. Jonathan Hevita, a case manager for Janus Center, who will be assuming leadership of a new Lutheran congregation by month's end. We welcome Jarvis Smith as program assistant at St. Paul's Project Learn site. We are also pleased to welcome Kim Schisler as a Yale Seminary intern for the 2010-2011 program year. Ms. Schisler will focus on Bridge Building and Congregation Relations. Her position is funded by Yale University.

August 2010

***SAVE THE DATE***

Fall Delegates and Pastors Conference

Tuesday, September 21, 2010, 6:45 – 9 p.m.

“The Growth at Your Doorstep:

Engaging Current Church-Goers More Effectively”

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church

4070 Park Avenue, Bridgeport 06604

Ample off-street parking behind the church.

203.334.1121

Council Sunday will be recognized on Sunday, October 3rd in member congregations. The goal of Council Sunday is to thank, inform and inspire our member churches through a brief presentation by church delegates or Council staff or volunteers. Resources to observe Council Sunday may be obtained from Richetta Joyner at richettaj@ccgb.org or call 334-1121.

Council Marathon Benefit: the Rev. Dr. Brian Bodt will run his fifth marathon the October 10^th at the Steamtown Marathon in Scranton, PA as a benefit for The Council of Churches. His goal is $20,000. If you would like to contribute, please contact him at brianbodt@ccgb.org or 334.1121, ext. 233.

Janus Center ~ Caring for Youth in Crisis

Temporary respite care is a critical component of Janus Center services ~ in fact, we are the only provider of respite care for kids in the Greater Bridgeport area. We rent two gender-specific host-home apartments, each with a caring host home parent prepared to offer a structured, supervised environment to kids who need some time apart. Dale Holder, program director, says the following items are needed ~ call him at 334-1121 x 221 or email daleholder@ccgb.org if you can help.

Project Learn’s Annual Benefit Concert will be held on October 15 at 7 pm at Stratford United Methodist Church, 2600 Main Street, 06615. More details to follow. After-school programming will begin in early September, with a new site at United Congregational Church at 877 Park Avenue in Bridgeport. The attached wish list will help in setting up the new site, as well as putting together bookbags for our young students ~ If you are interested in providing some of these items and/or volunteering, please contact Sean Campbell at 203-334-1121 ext. 244 or seancampbell@ccgb.org.

H NGER ~ the problem can’t be solved without “U” !! Please consider renewed efforts in collecting non-perishable food items ~ If you’d like information on what kinds of food to collect or a list of feeding programs, call Byron Crosdale at 334.1121 x 249 or byroncrosdale@ccgb.org. To those who serve in community suppers and pantries all year long, our hearty thanks.

· Computers (laptop or desktop) with Windows XP or later

Recreational Items

Thursday, June 17th ~ Come on down and play at The Downtown Cabaret!! Plan to join us at 5:30 p.m. for a reception featuring delectable hors d’ouevres and beverages. The 2010 Faith and Community Award will be presented to Southport Congregational Church at 6:30, followed at 7:30 by with the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. $65/person – Bring your own picnic-style supper and drinks to enjoy during the show. For more information, email pattyjensen@ccgb.org or call 203.334.1121 x 243. Reserve your place early ~ seating is limited.

Janus Center ~ Caring for Youth in Crisis Janus Center’s program director Dale Holder was recently elected to serve a two-year term on RHYTTAC (Runaway Homeless Youth Training and Technical Assistance Center) Advisory Board. RHYTTAC serves a centralized national resource for Federal Youth Service Bureau funded Runaway and Homeless Youth (RHY) grantees. Training and Technical Assistance Services are directed at assisting RHY grantees to engage in continuous quality improvement of their services and to build their capacity to effectively serve runaway and homeless youth. With his input into formulating best-practices, Dale will be able to broaden and enhance the scope of youth in crisis services not only in the Greater Bridgeport area, but on a national level.

Project Learn (turning students into scholars) Project Learn will offer summer programming at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Summerfield United Methodist Church, and Marina Village. Once again, the summer program will provide academic enrichment, recreational and cultural activities for 120 children. If anyone is interested in providing recreational supplies and/or volunteering please contact Sean Campbell at 203-334-1121 ext. 244 or seancampbell@ccgb.org.

CO-OP Center (creating second chances) hopes to enlist at least four congregations during the month of June to collect one of the four hygiene items listed below. Please contact Dan Braccio, CO-OP Center Program Director, at 203 367-8441 x 231 / danbraccio@ccgb.org , to coordinate the collection of these items:

Hunger Outreach (coordinating area feeding initiatives) Regrettably, hunger never takes a vacation! Please consider renewed efforts in collecting non-perishable food items ~ and emphasize that hunger is not a seasonal problem that crops up only at Thanksgiving and Christmas ~ it is a huge problem all year long, particularly during the summer months. If you’d like information on what kinds of food to collect or a list of feeding programs, call Byron Crosdale 334.1121 x 249. To those who serve in community suppers and pantries all year long, our hearty thanks.

May 2010

Join us for the 65th Annual Meeting of The Council of Churches of Greater Bridgeport! The meeting will be held at Covenant Church of Easton, One Sport Hill Road, on Thursday, May 6. Registration and a bountiful dessert reception provided by Covenant’s gracious hospitality team will begin at 6:30 p.m. Devotions and business meeting commence at 7:15 sharp ~ at this time the 2010-2011 slate of Officers and Directors will be presented and voted upon. At 7:30 we are pleased to present our keynote presenter, Ms. Jeanette Harris. Fondly known as “Momma J,” Jeanette uses her gifts and talents of music, storytelling, poetry, comedy and drama to bring smiles and inspiration to her audiences. This evening Momma J. will engage us in contemplating "The Categories of Gratitude." At 8 p.m. we will recognize our “Great Friends” ~ people whose service and commitment have uniquely advanced The Council’s work of “Leveraging Hope and Changing Lives.”

Founders Award: Rev. Hopeton A. Scott

Community Builder: Rosa J. Correa

Lurline W. Reid Award: Charles B. Rosenthal

Life Member Award: Barbara Stinson

The evening will conclude on or before 9 p.m. Advance reservations are helpful at pattyjensen@ccgb.org

Bridge Building Ministry:

Leadership Breakfast: The Housing Crisis – focusing on community programs to help avoid foreclosure or “Mortgage Poverty” May 11, 7:30 – 9 am at City Hall Annex, 999 Broad street in Bridgeport. Panelists include: Mr. Todd Fagan ~ Foreclosure Intervention Specialist; Rev. Marjorie Nunes: President, Divine Mortgage Solutions and Ms. Elizabeth Torres, Executive Director of the Bridgeport Neighborhood Trust, Inc.

Project Learn (turning students into scholars)

Please join us for a very special concert on Saturday, May 15th at St John’s Episcopal Church. The New Haven Chorale will perform a benefit concert for Project Learn. The program includes exciting vocal and instrumental music from Central and South America, and features Misa Criolla by Argentine Composer Ariel Ramirez, exciting instrumental music performed by the Alturas Duo, contemporary choral works in Spanish, and audience singing of popular songs in Spanish. Pulsating rhythms, impassioned singing and virtuoso playing will energize your spirits and fill your hearts with joy! Ticket prices are adults:$20; seniors:$15; prime seating:$35 and students are free with i.d. Tickets are available at www.newhavechorale.org or call 203.776.SONG.

***SAVE THE DATE***

Saturday, May 1st, ~ First Church of Fairfield will be hosting Battle of the Bands Part II, a fundraiser to support the Janus Center for Youth in Crisis. Come support these talented youth as they “rock-out” for area kids in crisis. 7 to 10 pm. Doors open @ 6:30. $5/ person $15/family

Sunday, May 2nd ~ Greater Bridgeport CROP Walk, 1:30 – 5 p.m., departing from United Congregational Church, 877 Park Avenue (at State Street), Bridgeport.

Thursday, June 17th ~ Plan to join us at 6 p.m. at the Downtown Cabaret Theatre featuring the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee." The 2010 Faith and Community Award will be presented to Southport Congregational Church that evening. $65/person – for more information, email pattyjensen@ccgb.org or call 203.334.1121 x 243

Observe Council Month

Member congregations are encouraged to observe “Council Month” in October, 2011 (or any Sunday better suited to local needs). Council Month (originally “Council Sunday”) is a 2005 renewal of a longer history of addressing our congregations. The purpose is to equip Council delegates with the tools to inform and inspire our members about the ways we use your mission giving to “turn faith into action…helping people at risk meet their urgent needs.”

“Observing” consists of any combination of suggested activities on one Sunday of your choosing:

reading a two minute message that we will provide at morning worship service(s);
publishing a message in your weekly bulletin and/or monthly newsletter;
sharing our materials after worship;
having a delegate, pastor or member of our Board or staff available for conversation;
showing our promotional seven-minute DVD.

No fund-raising is intended with this observance. Some congregations choose to receive a special offering but this is a local decision. Our goal is sharing news of our ministry. If you want to know more about observing Council Month, please contact Patty Jensen at pattyjensen@ccgb.org or 203.334.1121, ext. 243.

As June 22 the following 27 churches were committed to observing Council Month. More will be added as commitments are made:

Christ Church , Episcopal, Tashua, Trumbull
Church of the Blessed Sacrament, Bridgeport
Fairfield-Grace United Methodist Church
First Baptist Church of Bridgeport
First Church , Congregational, U.C.C., Fairfield
First United Church of Christ , Bridgeport
First United Methodist Church , Shelton
Golden Hill United Methodist Church , Bridgeport
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church , Monroe
Greenfield Hill Congregational Church, Fairfield
Holy Cross Lutheran Church , Trumbull
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church , Trumbull
Monroe Congregational Church, U.C.C., Monroe
Nichols United Methodist Church , Trumbull
Olivet Congregational Church, U.C.C., Bridgeport
Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, Fairfield
St. Charles Borromeo Roman Catholic Church, Bridgeport
St. John 's Episcopal Church, Bridgeport
St. Joseph's of Stratford National Catholic Church, Stratford
Salem Lutheran Church , Bridgeport
Southport Congregational Church, U.C.C., Fairfield
Stratford Baptist Church, Stratford
Stratford United Methodist Church , Stratford
Summerfield United Methodist Church , Bridgeport
Trumbull Congregational Church, U.C.C., Trumbull
United Congregational Church, U.C.C., Bridgeport
United Methodist Church of Westport and Weston
Unity Hill United Church of Christ , Trumbull