Newsletter 6-27-2023

PASTOR SEARCH UPDATE

Allow us to into introduce you to our final candidate for lead pastor.

Andie Pellicer (pronounced Pell-ih-sear) is a pastor whose passion and deep conviction are that everyone matters and everyone is welcome. Andie has been in vocational pastoral ministry for about ten years and now serves as the pastor of a Presbyterian PCUSA church in Eastern Oregon. She lives just over the state line in Washington with her husband Jeremy and their four daughters: Mae, Hazel, and identical twins Noelle and Evers.

Prior to being a lead pastor, Andie worked as a family pastor, a youth pastor, and a student ministries director. Andie has a Master of Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary, and a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies from Grand Canyon University.  

Since Andie learned of our opening for a lead pastor, she’s spent time getting to know UBC, and what she’s learned stirred her soul. Andie connects with UBC’s perspective of no separation between the sacred and the secular, our celebration of being open and affirming towards the LGBTQIA+ community, and our heart for community and connection. In fact, she’s been attending UBC virtually since last fall. 

Andie is open, honest, and prioritizes transparency and vulnerability in her life and ministry. As an extrovert, Andie finds beauty and fulfillment in building relationships with people from different backgrounds and stages of life, all who teach her something about the nature of God. As a pastor, she is highly collaborative and appreciates any opportunity to care for her team and congregation. Andie leans into their care, as well, and is looking for a church where she can share ministry, our real selves, and the graces and challenges of this journey.

In meeting with Andie, we’ve come face-to-face with an individual who cares deeply for others, who has a passion for the heart of UBC, and who cannot wait to be a part of our community. 

Sincerely, 

UBC Pastoral Search Committee

Andie and her family will be visiting us the weekend of July 16th! Here are a few things to mark on your calendar for that weekend:

Saturday, July 15th
-Coffee for Youth and Caregivers at Pinewood (1-3pm)
-Love Feast/Meet and Greet @ 6pm (bring some food to share!)

Sunday, July 16th
-Sunday Liturgy at 10:45 am (Andie is Preaching)
-Lunch with Andie after church (bring $5 if you want to eat)

THIS WEEK

Waco Dives - Wednesday, 12pm at Tom’s Burgers

It is the most wonderful time of the year, Waco Dives is back.  Each week we meet at a different Waco hole in the wall spot for lunch. If you have any questions, contact toph@ubcwaco.org. #yourbestlunchnow

Pints w/ Toph - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at Pinewood

Ubc Families Movie Night (ft. pizza)- Friday, 6pm

This Friday, June 30 we are having a UBC Family Movie Night! If you want to come and be a part you can email taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org. The night will begin at 6pm and we will eat pizza. Then we'll watch a movie!! So see you Friday night, June 30, at 6pm for pizza and a movie! And email Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org to let her know if you're coming! 

GIVING

UBC survives on the generosity of our congregation. Your tithes and offerings allow us to continue to create a space that is welcoming to all, embraces beauty, and seeks to live life to the fullest.

You can give, as you’re able, on Sunday mornings or set up a single or recurring online gift here.

CHURCH NEEDS

***Ubc Family In Need***

One of your fellow Ubc families is in need of some financial support as they navigate their immigration/education journey! You can learn more and donate here.

Kids Volunteers

We are so thankful for our UBC Kids Volunteers! And it's that time again - to make a Summer calendar! If you are available to help on Sunday mornings or other times this semester please reach out to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org

Tech Booth Volunteers

We are in need of a few folks to join the rotation for our tech booth on Sunday mornings. No prior experience is required--we'll be happy to train you! Areas of need are lights, slides, and livestream. If you are interested, just email jamie@ubcwaco.org.\

UPCOMING EVENTS

Waco Dives - Wednesdays at Noon

It is the most wonderful time of the year, Waco Dives is back.  Each week we meet at a different Waco hole in the wall spot for lunch.  This is a great time to meet other UBC’ers.  If you have any questions, contact toph@ubcwaco.org. #yourbestlunchnow

UBCYP Hangout – July 2nd – 4 – 8pm

Join us for our next UBCYP gathering, we will be gathering at the Dodson’s for a pool party.  We will meet up around 4pm, and you can swim if you want.  We will eat dinner together around 6:30.  UBC will provide the hamburgers/hot dogs, please bring a side to share and byob.  You can sign-up on Sunday morning, or email toph@ubcwaco.org

Passport Kids Camp - Sunday, July 22nd-Tuesday, July 25th

UBCYP Summer Retreat – August 4th – 6th

We are having another summer retreat for those in your 20’s and 30’s at UBC.  We will be heading to a lake house in East Texas, and come back in time for church Sunday morning.   The cost is $50.  You can sign-up on Sunday mornings, or email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up or with questions.  

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often! 

PREACHING SCHEDULE

7/2- Taylor

7/9- Katie V

7/16- Andie Pellicer

7/23- Kerri F

PARISHIONER OF THE WEEK

Kristen and Carolina for cleaning out the fridge!

WANT TO CHAT?

Share Your Feedback

Have feedback for us? Feel free to reach out to staff directly with any praises, curiosities, or concerns. You are also invited to submit feedback to the HR team and allow them to pass it along! You can do that with this form: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

Pastoral Staff

Taylor Post, Children and Families Pastor (taylor@ubcwaco.org)
Toph Whisnant, Community Pastor (toph@ubcwaco.org)
Jameson Mcgregor, Worship & Arts Pastor (jamie@ubcwaco.org)
Kieran Cressy, Youth Pastor (kieran@ubcwaco.org)
Kirk Hatcher, Interim Lead Pastor (kirk@ubcwaco.org)

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Britt Duke (brittrduke@gmail.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)
Marcus Franklin (M_Franklin@baylor.edu)
Shelly Taylor (Shellytaylor76@gmail.com)
Katie Robinson (katiekrobinson@yahoo.com)
Margo Shanks (Margo_Shanks@baylor.edu)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)
Ethan Cohen (ethancohen002@gmail.com)

 

Newsletter 6-20-2023

KIRK’S POST

In another installment of our acclaimed "staff answers a single question" series this week, Kirk is curious about why we like this place:

What do you love most about ubc?

Jeff: I love how welcoming it is and how the people support ubc (that includes the staff).

Toph: the people

Kirk: the openness to change, the ability to adapt, the amount of grace at UBC for each other.

Jamie: https://www.ubcwaco.org/for-the-sake-of-clarity

Taylor: the kids

THIS WEEK

Waco Dives - Wednesday, 12pm at Friday’s Seafood and More

It is the most wonderful time of the year, Waco Dives is back.  Each week we meet at a different Waco hole in the wall spot for lunch. If you have any questions, contact toph@ubcwaco.org. #yourbestlunchnow

Pints w/ Toph - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at Pinewood

LGBTQIA+ and Allies - June 25th - 7-9pm

We are having our annual LGBTQIA+ and allies meetup in a few weeks at Toph’s Casa, and this will be a potluck.  Please bring a finger food to share with group.  You can sign-up on Sunday morning in the foyer, or email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up.

GIVING

UBC survives on the generosity of our congregation. Your tithes and offerings allow us to continue to create a space that is welcoming to all, embraces beauty, and seeks to live life to the fullest.

You can give, as you’re able, on Sunday mornings or set up a single or recurring online gift here.

CHURCH NEEDS

Kids Volunteers

We are so thankful for our UBC Kids Volunteers! And it's that time again - to make a Summer calendar! If you are available to help on Sunday mornings or other times this semester please reach out to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org

Tech Booth Volunteers

We are in need of a few folks to join the rotation for our tech booth on Sunday mornings. No prior experience is required--we'll be happy to train you! Areas of need are lights, slides, and livestream. If you are interested, just email jamie@ubcwaco.org.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Waco Dives - Wednesdays at Noon

It is the most wonderful time of the year, Waco Dives is back.  Each week we meet at a different Waco hole in the wall spot for lunch.  This is a great time to meet other UBC’ers.  If you have any questions, contact toph@ubcwaco.org. #yourbestlunchnow

Passport Kids Camp - Sunday, July 22nd-Tuesday, July 25th

UBCYP Hangout – July 2nd – 4 – 8pm

Join us for our next UBCYP gathering, we will be gathering at the Dodson’s for a pool party.  We will meet up around 4pm, and you can swim if you want.  We will eat dinner together around 6:30.  UBC will provide the hamburgers/hot dogs, please bring a side to share and byob.  You can sign-up on Sunday morning, or email toph@ubcwaco.org

UBCYP Summer Retreat – August 4th – 6th

We are having another summer retreat for those in your 20’s and 30’s at UBC.  We will be heading to a lake house in East Texas, and come back in time for church Sunday morning.   The cost is $50.  You can sign-up on Sunday mornings, or email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up or with questions.  

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often! 

PREACHING SCHEDULE

6/25- Craig

7/2- Taylor

PARISHIONER OF THE WEEK

Our VBS Volunteers!

WANT TO CHAT?

Share Your Feedback

Have feedback for us? Feel free to reach out to staff directly with any praises, curiosities, or concerns. You are also invited to submit feedback to the HR team and allow them to pass it along! You can do that with this form: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

Pastoral Staff

Taylor Post, Children and Families Pastor (taylor@ubcwaco.org)
Toph Whisnant, Community Pastor (toph@ubcwaco.org)
Jameson Mcgregor, Worship & Arts Pastor (jamie@ubcwaco.org)
Kieran Cressy, Youth Pastor (kieran@ubcwaco.org)
Kirk Hatcher, Interim Lead Pastor (kirk@ubcwaco.org)

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Britt Duke (brittrduke@gmail.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)
Marcus Franklin (M_Franklin@baylor.edu)
Shelly Taylor (Shellytaylor76@gmail.com)
Katie Robinson (katiekrobinson@yahoo.com)
Margo Shanks (Margo_Shanks@baylor.edu)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)
Ethan Cohen (ethancohen002@gmail.com)

 

Newsletter 6-13-2023

KIERAN’S POST

Happy Tuesday UBC!

I write to you today from the lounge area in our dorms at camp. The kids are currently off with their Bible Study leaders diving into the second full day of learning. We’ll have lunch soon after this, because of course it’s camp, so everything is go go go!

We’ve been having a fantastic time away - we’ve been placed in Red House with a number of other churches, and we’ve competed together in various games and activities throughout our time so far. There’s also been a lot of time to learn about God, and each other, which has been really brilliant so far.

The theme of Passport Youth this summer is “Upside Down” - that is to say, allowing our minds and hearts to be reorientated to see those marginalised, oppressed, and ignored by so many throughout the world. It’s been a very practical, thought-provoking course, and our lessons/discussions have had a real emphasis towards social justice and people-first initiatives, which I have been a big fan of.

Today we’ll be volunteering at the Disability Resource Centre in Abilene, which is an assisted living facility nestled on 170 acres of green land to provide a home and life-time care for adults with intellectual disabilities. We’ll be doing arts and crafts with the people onsite, playing games, and decorating cookies. It’s a really great chance for the kids to put into practise the things we’ve been learning about, and I’m excited to see what the afternoon holds!

Thank you so much to everyone, parents, drivers, youth, who’ve made this camp possible. All of the admin and planning all becomes immediately worth it once we’re here and seeing the amazing time that everyone is having.

That’s everything from me for today - we’ll be back in Waco on Thursday, so we’ll see you all this Sunday!

Kieran

THIS WEEK

Waco Dives - Wednesday, 12pm at Jasper’s

It is the most wonderful time of the year, Waco Dives is back.  Each week we meet at a different Waco hole in the wall spot for lunch. If you have any questions, contact toph@ubcwaco.org. #yourbestlunchnow

GIVING

UBC survives on the generosity of our congregation. Your tithes and offerings allow us to continue to create a space that is welcoming to all, embraces beauty, and seeks to live life to the fullest.

You can give, as you’re able, on Sunday mornings or set up a single or recurring online gift here.

CHURCH NEEDS

VBS Volunteers

We  are having  VBS 2023 on June 19-23 from 5:30-8:80pm and we are still looking for volunteers! If you are available to serve please let us know by sending an email to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org! There are many ways to serve including storytelling, crafts, and movement!

Kids Volunteers

We are so thankful for our UBC Kids Volunteers! And it's that time again - to make a Summer calendar! If you are available to help on Sunday mornings or other times this semester please reach out to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org

Tech Booth Volunteers

We are in need of a few folks to join the rotation for our tech booth on Sunday mornings. No prior experience is required--we'll be happy to train you! Areas of need are lights, slides, and livestream. If you are interested, just email jamie@ubcwaco.org.

ATTENTION PARENTS

SIGN UP FOR VBS (June 19-23, 5:30pm-8:30pm)

Now is the time to sign up your kids for VBS! The dates are June 19-23 and we'll be at the church in the evenings from 5:30-pm-8:30pm. The groups are 3-5yo, 1-3 grade, and 4-6 Grade - there is a sign up sheet at the church or you could send me an email taylor to sign up for VBS! Either way works! You can email taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Waco Dives - Wednesdays at Noon

It is the most wonderful time of the year, Waco Dives is back.  Each week we meet at a different Waco hole in the wall spot for lunch.  This is a great time to meet other UBC’ers.  If you have any questions, contact toph@ubcwaco.org. #yourbestlunchnow

VBS - Monday, June 19th-Friday, June 23rd, 5:30-8:30pm

We are having VBS at the end of June this year and the theme is Compassion Camp: What Every Living Thing Needs! I'm so looking forward to spending this week with our kids and volunteers! And there is currently a sign up sheet for kids and volunteers in the lobby! Or you can email me directly!

LGBTQIA+ and Allies - June 25th - 7-9pm

We are having our annual LGBTQIA+ and allies meetup in a few weeks at Toph’s Casa, and this will be a potluck.  Please bring a finger food to share with group.  You can sign-up on Sunday morning in the foyer, or email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up.

Passport Kids Camp - Sunday, July 22nd-Tuesday, July 25th

UBCYP Hangout – July 2nd – 4 – 8pm

Join us for our next UBCYP gathering, we will be gathering at the Dodson’s for a pool party.  We will meet up around 4pm, and you can swim if you want.  We will eat dinner together around 6:30.  UBC will provide the hamburgers/hot dogs, please bring a side to share and byob.  You can sign-up on Sunday morning, or email toph@ubcwaco.org

UBCYP Summer Retreat – August 4th – 6th

We are having another summer retreat for those in your 20’s and 30’s at UBC.  We will be heading to a lake house in East Texas, and come back in time for church Sunday morning.   The cost is $50.  You can sign-up on Sunday mornings, or email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up or with questions.  

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often! 

PREACHING SCHEDULE

6/18- Kirk

6/25- Craig

7/2- Taylor

PARISHIONER OF THE WEEK

Everyone who volunteered to drive/chaperone for youth camp!

WANT TO CHAT?

Share Your Feedback

Have feedback for us? Feel free to reach out to staff directly with any praises, curiosities, or concerns. You are also invited to submit feedback to the HR team and allow them to pass it along! You can do that with this form: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

Pastoral Staff

Taylor Post, Children and Families Pastor (taylor@ubcwaco.org)
Toph Whisnant, Community Pastor (toph@ubcwaco.org)
Jameson Mcgregor, Worship & Arts Pastor (jamie@ubcwaco.org)
Kieran Cressy, Youth Pastor (kieran@ubcwaco.org)
Kirk Hatcher, Interim Lead Pastor (kirk@ubcwaco.org)

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Britt Duke (brittrduke@gmail.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)
Marcus Franklin (M_Franklin@baylor.edu)
Shelly Taylor (Shellytaylor76@gmail.com)
Katie Robinson (katiekrobinson@yahoo.com)
Margo Shanks (Margo_Shanks@baylor.edu)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)
Ethan Cohen (ethancohen002@gmail.com)

 

Newsletter 6-6-2023

TOPH’S POST

In another installment of our acclaimed "staff answers a single question" series this week, Toph has his mind on summer vibes:

What is one song from your HS days that make you think of summer?

  • Taylor - “The Best Deceptions,” by Dashboard Confessional

  • Kirk - “Dreams,” by Fleetwood Mac

  • Jameson - “Now That You’re Home,” by Manchester Orchestra

  • Toph - “Regulators,” by Warren G and Nate Dogg

  • Jeff - “I Turn to You,” by Melanie C.

  • Kieran - “That’s What you Get,” by Paramore

THIS WEEK

Waco Dives - Wednesday, 12pm at The Ranchito #5

It is the most wonderful time of the year, Waco Dives is back.  Each week we meet at a different Waco hole in the wall spot for lunch. If you have any questions, contact toph@ubcwaco.org. #yourbestlunchnow

Pints w/ Toph - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at Pinewood

UBCYP Hangout - Thursday, June 8th - 6-8pm

Our next young professional gathering is in two weeks, and we will be meeting at Bare Arms.  This is a great time to get to know other folks, and deepen your community at UBC.  If you are between your mid 20’s to mid 30’s (ish), we would love for you to join.  You can sign-up on Sunday morning in the foyer, or email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up. 

UBC Family Movie Night - Friday, June 9, 6PM

This Friday we will have a movie night  and we are going to start with pizza and then watch the movie Coco. If you can make it let Taylor know by sending an email to taylor@ubcwaco.org

*Youth/5- 6 Grade Evenings are finished until fall*

Our Kids and Youth Summer Schedules will begin June 5th and Youth Evenings will resume in the fall with the new school year.

GIVING

UBC survives on the generosity of our congregation. Your tithes and offerings allow us to continue to create a space that is welcoming to all, embraces beauty, and seeks to live life to the fullest.

You can give, as you’re able, on Sunday mornings or set up a single or recurring online gift here.

CHURCH NEEDS

VBS Volunteers

We  are having  VBS 2023 on June 19-23 from 5:30-8:80pm and we are still looking for volunteers! If you are available to serve please let us know by sending an email to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org! There are many ways to serve including storytelling, crafts, and movement!

Kids Volunteers

We are so thankful for our UBC Kids Volunteers! And it's that time again - to make a Summer calendar! If you are available to help on Sunday mornings or other times this semester please reach out to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org

Tech Booth Volunteers

We are in need of a few folks to join the rotation for our tech booth on Sunday mornings. No prior experience is required--we'll be happy to train you! Areas of need are lights, slides, and livestream. If you are interested, just email jamie@ubcwaco.org.

ATTENTION PARENTS

SIGN UP FOR VBS (June 19-23, 5:30pm-8:30pm)

Now is the time to sign up your kids for VBS! The dates are June 19-23 and we'll be at the church in the evenings from 5:30-pm-8:30pm. The groups are 3-5yo, 1-3 grade, and 4-6 Grade - there is a sign up sheet at the church or you could send me an email taylor to sign up for VBS! Either way works! You can email taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Waco Dives - Wednesdays at Noon

It is the most wonderful time of the year, Waco Dives is back.  Each week we meet at a different Waco hole in the wall spot for lunch.  This is a great time to meet other UBC’ers.  If you have any questions, contact toph@ubcwaco.org. #yourbestlunchnow

Passport Youth Camp - Sunday, June 11th-Thursday, June 15th

VBS - Monday, June 19th-Friday, June 23rd, 5:30-8:30pm

We are having VBS at the end of June this year and the theme is Compassion Camp: What Every Living Thing Needs! I'm so looking forward to spending this week with our kids and volunteers! And there is currently a sign up sheet for kids and volunteers in the lobby! Or you can email me directly! taylor@ubcwaco.org

Passport Kids Camp - Sunday, July 22nd-Tuesday, July 25th

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often!

PREACHING SCHEDULE

6/11- Kirk
6/18- Kirk

PARISHIONER OF THE WEEK

Brandon and Megan Glover for going above and beyond the call of duty at the kids check in station.

WANT TO CHAT?

Share Your Feedback

Have feedback for us? Feel free to reach out to staff directly with any praises, curiosities, or concerns. You are also invited to submit feedback to the HR team and allow them to pass it along! You can do that with this form: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

Pastoral Staff

Taylor Post, Children and Families Pastor (taylor@ubcwaco.org)
Toph Whisnant, Community Pastor (toph@ubcwaco.org)
Jameson Mcgregor, Worship & Arts Pastor (jamie@ubcwaco.org)
Kieran Cressy, Youth Pastor (kieran@ubcwaco.org)
Kirk Hatcher, Interim Lead Pastor (kirk@ubcwaco.org)

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Britt Duke (brittrduke@gmail.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)
Marcus Franklin (M_Franklin@baylor.edu)
Shelly Taylor (Shellytaylor76@gmail.com)
Katie Robinson (katiekrobinson@yahoo.com)
Margo Shanks (Margo_Shanks@baylor.edu)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)
Ethan Cohen (ethancohen002@gmail.com)

 

ITLOTC 5-30-2023

Zora Neale Hurston wrote, "There are years that ask questions, and years that answer them." But as I’ve reflected back on the last year of my life, neither of those descriptions seems to fit. This year didn’t really bring forth any new questions (that would be 2020 through most of 2022, thank you very much), but I can’t quite say that any new answers have arrived either (I'm still waiting on those).

Instead, I’d call this a year of holding questions—of making space and moving slowly, of lingering and pondering, of opening up and letting others in. As frustrating as it sometimes is to continue waiting for answers I’d really love to have now, I’m ever so grateful to be in good question-carrying company. UBC is full of people who not only tolerate the tension of holding questions but who have entered it alongside me. Thank you, UBC, for making me feel seen and safe, known and loved.

I’d like to leave you with a poem by Annie Lightheart that I’ve been loving this year. It’s one I return to again and again.

A Great Wild Goodness

One morning I was looking out the window
when a great wildness came over me;
I wanted to be kind to everything. I promised
not to kill the spider on the wall; in the cold
I took the dog for the long walk she’d been wanting;
I fetched a trashcan lid for an ornery neighbor
and did not, just then, add a single adjective to his name.
I went back inside to the laundry and dishes
with a clean heart such as I have never had.

Before dinner the wild goodness bellowed Too tame!
Too tame!
so I went outside without my coat
and shouted poems up the alleys
until my children came home with their small,
warm hands. Then we ate bread
in the kitchen, unafraid to be happy.
The stars in wild darkness were right over our heads.

Brooke Reich
Pastoral Associate

Waco ISD Summer Meals

This summer, UBC will host a location for Waco ISD’s summer meal program. Any student under the age of 18 is eligible to participate.

Waco Dives - Wednesday, 12:00 pm at Kitoks

It is the most wonderful time of the year, Waco Dives is back.  Each week we meet at a different Waco hole in the wall spot for lunch. If you have any questions, contact toph@ubcwaco.org. #yourbestlunchnow

Pints w/ Toph - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at Pinewood

LGBTQ+ and Allies Meetup - Thursday, 8:00 pm at Toph’s Casa

We are having our annual LGBTQIA+ and allies meetup next week at Toph’s Casa, and this will be a potluck.  Please bring a side dish to share with the group.  You can sign-up on Sunday morning in the foyer, or email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up.  

***There will be no Youth or 5th & 6th Grade Evenings for the rest of the summer***

Our Kids and Youth Summer Schedules will begin June 5th and Youth Evenings will resume in the fall with the new school year.

Giving Update

UBC survives on the generosity of our congregation. Your tithes and offerings allow us to continue to create a space that is welcoming to all, embraces beauty, and seeks to live life to the fullest.

You can give, as you’re able, on Sunday mornings or set up a single or recurring online gift here.

Pastoral Associate Application

Want to join our team for a year? We are currently accepting applications for our 2023-24 pastoral associates. You can learn more about what that entails and find the application at ubcwaco.org/pastoralassociate. Applications are due by 5pm on Wednesday, June 7th.

VBS Volunteers - 

We  are having  VBS 2023 on June 19-23 from 5:30-8:80pm and we are still looking for volunteers! If you are available to serve please let us know by sending an email to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org! There are many ways to serve including storytelling, crafts, and movement!

Youth Camp Chaperones (1 male, 1 female, 11th-15th June)

In addition to the drivers needed below, we’re also in urgent need of two more chaperones to accompany us to camp. We’d need volunteers from 11th June to 15th June - the Camp itself has volunteers who run and coordinate everything, so you’d just need to hang out! Chaperones don’t need to pay for their slot, it really is just your physical presence that we need!

If you are at all interested, please reach out to me at kieran@ubcwaco.org. Thank you so so much everyone!

A note on gender: whilst Passport Camp is doing a lot to have a more nuanced and inclusive approach to gender when it comes to the kids, sadly this hasn’t yet extended to “required” chaperones of specific biological sexes. Please know that Passport is a safe and inclusive space for all LGBTQIA+ individuals (I have grilled them rigorously about it myself), but as of yet they don’t have updated language to implement that as far as the chaperones are concerned. If you self-identify in a way that you feel able and comfortable to be a chaperone for us, then that is beyond good enough for me - please do still get in touch!

Youth Camp Drivers

If you’re interested in saving UBC $2,000 by driving our Youth to and from camp this summer, please follow this link to sign up:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8aY2dZAOwzoIbZ9htyWD4id5xn5BeBcNL1JqpQzECsjhH3g/viewform?usp=sf_link

If you have any questions, please email kieran@ubcwaco.org.

Kids Volunteers

We are so thankful for our UBC Kids Volunteers! And it's that time again - to make a Summer calendar! If you are available to help on Sunday mornings or other times this semester please reach out to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org

Tech Booth Volunteers

We are in need of a few folks to join the rotation for our tech booth on Sunday mornings. No prior experience is required--we'll be happy to train you! Areas of need are lights, slides, and livestream. If you are interested, just email jamie@ubcwaco.org.

Waco Dives - Wednesdays at Noon

It is the most wonderful time of the year, Waco Dives is back.  Each week we meet at a different Waco hole in the wall spot for lunch.  This is a great time to meet other UBC’ers. Next week we will be at El Ranchito. Jasper’s, Fridays Seafood and more to come.  If you have any questions, contact toph@ubcwaco.org. #yourbestlunchnow

UBCYP Hangout - Thursday, June 8th - 6-8pm

Our next young professional gathering is in two weeks, and we will be meeting at Bare Arms.  This is a great time to get to know other folks, and deepen your community at UBC.  If you are between your mid 20’s to mid 30’s (ish), we would love for you to join.  You can sign-up on Sunday morning in the foyer, or email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up. 

Passport Youth Camp - Sunday, June 11th-Thursday, June 15th

VBS - Monday, June 19th-Friday, June 23rd, 5:30-8:30pm

We are having VBS at the end of June this year and the theme is Compassion Camp: What Every Living Thing Needs! I'm so looking forward to spending this week with our kids and volunteers! And there is currently a sign up sheet for kids and volunteers in the lobby! Or you can email me directly! taylor@ubcwaco.org

Passport Kids Camp - Sunday, July 22nd-Tuesday, July 25th

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often!

🎉 Parishioner of the Week

The parishioner of the week is Brooke Reich for her year of service as UBC’s Pastoral Associate, which comes to an end on May 31.

📖 Preaching Schedule

6/4- Katie Valenzuela
6/11- Kirk
6/18- Kirk

💭 Share Your Feedback

You’re invited to share your feedback (good, bad, or in-between) about the goings-on at UBC! All comments will be shared directly with the UBC Human Resources team who will then share it with Leadership Team, Finance Team, or Pastoral Staff as needed. Share your feedback here: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Britt Duke (brittrduke@gmail.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)
Marcus Franklin (M_Franklin@baylor.edu)
Shelly Taylor (Shellytaylor76@gmail.com)
Katie Robinson (katiekrobinson@yahoo.com)
Margo Shanks (Margo_Shanks@baylor.edu)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)
Ethan Cohen (ethancohen002@gmail.com)

ITLOTC 5-23-2023

It’s another staff answers a single question this week. We hope this serves as a fun way for everyone to get to know the staff a little better. This week’s question is from Taylor…

What was the best thing you ate in the last week?

  • Taylor - Pizookie from BJ's

  • Kirk = Buccatini and Meatballs from Moroso's

  • Jameson - Chopped Brisket Sandwich from Helberg

  • Toph - Smoked Tri-Tip with garlic mac-n-cheese

  • Jeff - Ramen from Hokkaido

  • Brooke- Homemade chicken noodle soup

Waco ISD Summer Meals

This summer, UBC will host a location for Waco ISD’s summer meal program. Any student under the age of 18 is eligible to participate.

5th & 6th Graders - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

***There will be no Youth Evening or Pints w/ Toph this week***

Pints w/ Toph will resume Wednesday, May 31st. Our Youth Summer Schedule will begin June 5th and Youth Evenings will resume in the fall with the new school year.

Giving Update

UBC survives on the generosity of our congregation. Your tithes and offerings allow us to continue to create a space that is welcoming to all, embraces beauty, and seeks to live life to the fullest.

You can give, as you’re able, on Sunday mornings or set up a single or recurring online gift here.

Pastoral Associate Application

Want to join our team for a year? We are currently accepting applications for our 2023-24 pastoral associates. You can learn more about what that entails and find the application at ubcwaco.org/pastoralassociate. Applications are due by 5pm on Wednesday, June 7th.

VBS Volunteers - 

We  are having  VBS 2023 on June 19-23 from 5:30-8:80pm and we are still looking for volunteers! If you are available to serve please let us know by sending an email to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org! There are many ways to serve including storytelling, crafts, and movement!

Youth Camp Chaperones (1 male, 1 female, 11th-15th June)

In addition to the drivers needed below, we’re also in urgent need of two more chaperones to accompany us to camp. We’d need volunteers from 11th June to 15th June - the Camp itself has volunteers who run and coordinate everything, so you’d just need to hang out! Chaperones don’t need to pay for their slot, it really is just your physical presence that we need!

If you are at all interested, please reach out to me at kieran@ubcwaco.org. Thank you so so much everyone!

A note on gender: whilst Passport Camp is doing a lot to have a more nuanced and inclusive approach to gender when it comes to the kids, sadly this hasn’t yet extended to “required” chaperones of specific biological sexes. Please know that Passport is a safe and inclusive space for all LGBTQIA+ individuals (I have grilled them rigorously about it myself), but as of yet they don’t have updated language to implement that as far as the chaperones are concerned. If you self-identify in a way that you feel able and comfortable to be a chaperone for us, then that is beyond good enough for me - please do still get in touch!

Youth Camp Drivers

If you’re interested in saving UBC $2,000 by driving our Youth to and from camp this summer, please follow this link to sign up:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8aY2dZAOwzoIbZ9htyWD4id5xn5BeBcNL1JqpQzECsjhH3g/viewform?usp=sf_link

If you have any questions, please email kieran@ubcwaco.org.

Kids Volunteers

We are so thankful for our UBC Kids Volunteers! And it's that time again - to make a Summer calendar! If you are available to help on Sunday mornings or other times this semester please reach out to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org

Tech Booth Volunteers

We are in need of a few folks to join the rotation for our tech booth on Sunday mornings. No prior experience is required--we'll be happy to train you! Areas of need are lights, slides, and livestream. If you are interested, just email jamie@ubcwaco.org.

Waco Dives - Wednesdays at Noon beginning May 31st

It is the most wonderful time of the year, Waco Dives is back.  Each week we meet at a different Waco hole in the wall spot for lunch.  This is a great time to meet other UBC’ers.  We will kickoff Waco Dives on May 31st, at a true Waco classic: Kitok’s.  Meet us there at noon.  The following weeks we will be at El Ranchito, Jasper’s, and Fridays Seafood and More.  If you have any questions, contact toph@ubcwaco.org. #yourbestlunchnow

LGBTQIA+ and Allies Meetup - Thursday, June 1st - 6-8pm

We are having our annual LGBTQIA+ and allies meetup next week at Toph’s Casa, and this will be a potluck.  Please bring a side dish to share with the group.  You can sign-up on Sunday morning in the foyer, or email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up.  

UBCYP - Thursday, June 8th - 6-8pm

Our next young professional gathering is in two weeks, and we will be meeting at Bare Arms.  This is a great time to get to know other folks, and deepen your community at UBC.  If you are between your mid 20’s to mid 30’s (ish), we would love for you to join.  You can sign-up on Sunday morning in the foyer, or email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up. 

Passport Youth Camp - Sunday, June 11th-Thursday, June 15th

VBS - Monday, June 19th-Friday, June 23rd, 5:30-8:30pm

We are having VBS at the end of June this year and the theme is Compassion Camp: What Every Living Thing Needs! I'm so looking forward to spending this week with our kids and volunteers! And there is currently a sign up sheet for kids and volunteers in the lobby! Or you can email me directly! taylor@ubcwaco.org

Civil Rights Pilgrimage - Wednesday, July 12-Sunday, July 16th

UBC is looking at doing its first ever Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Memphis and Little Rock this July. This trip is for all ages, and designed to learn more about Civil Rights history in America, and spark conversation among your family and UBC’ers around how we might continue to create a more equitable world.

Passport Kids Camp - Sunday, July 22nd-Tuesday, July 25th

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often!

🎉 Parishioner of the Week

The parishioner of the week is Brooke Reich for her year of service as UBC’s Pastoral Associate, which comes to an end on May 31.

📖 Preaching Schedule

5/21- Jamie
5/28- Craig (note: Craig will be sharing spoilers to the 2000 film Chocolat. If you have time, watch it between now and then.)
6/4- Katie Valenzuela
6/11- Kirk
6/18- Kirk

💭 Share Your Feedback

You’re invited to share your feedback (good, bad, or in-between) about the goings-on at UBC! All comments will be shared directly with the UBC Human Resources team who will then share it with Leadership Team, Finance Team, or Pastoral Staff as needed. Share your feedback here: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Britt Duke (brittrduke@gmail.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)
Marcus Franklin (M_Franklin@baylor.edu)
Shelly Taylor (Shellytaylor76@gmail.com)
Katie Robinson (katiekrobinson@yahoo.com)
Margo Shanks (Margo_Shanks@baylor.edu)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)
Ethan Cohen (ethancohen002@gmail.com)

ITLOTC 5-15-2023

Greetings.

I recently encountered a new book from the Iona community (we have used a lot of their stuff either directly or as a blueprint over the last decade or so) called Redeeming Our Cracks: Prayers, Poems, Reflections and Stories on Mental Health and Well-Being. As I’ve been working my way through, there were two poem-prayers that I kept re-reading. They appear in the collection back-to-back, and share an author (Rev’d Sr Sandra Sears, CSBC), and I think they carry all the hope in the world within them. So, if you have a moment, I hope you’ll spend it reflecting on them this week.

Big Bang Theory

Lord,
when my life blows apart
into a billion fragments,
remind me of that first moment,
when the wonder and spectacle
of all that surrounds me
began its journey into being,
and that every creative moment
begins with a big bang.
This too might just be the start
of something big,
something beautiful.

Fragments

Lord,
you come,
walking among
the brittle fragments
of our broken lives,
gathering up every sharp shard,
to fashion
a new and beautiful
mosaic.
And all the while
your hands and feet
bleed for love of us.

May these words offer comfort to your shards and fragments, and if you happen to feel rather whole and lacking of shards at the moment, may these words be with you when the cracks return.

-jamie

Youth - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

5th & 6th Graders - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

***There will be no Pints w/ Toph this week***

Pints w/ Toph will resume Wednesday, May 31st.

Youth Coffee w/ Kieran - Saturday, 1:00 pm at Pinewood

Giving Update

UBC survives on the generosity of our congregation. Your tithes and offerings allow us to continue to create a space that is welcoming to all, embraces beauty, and seeks to live life to the fullest.

You can give, as you’re able, on Sunday mornings or set up a single or recurring online gift here.

Youth Camp Chaperones (1 male, 1 female, 11th-15th June)

In addition to the drivers needed below, we’re also in urgent need of two more chaperones to accompany us to camp. We’d need volunteers from 11th June to 15th June - the Camp itself has volunteers who run and coordinate everything, so you’d just need to hang out! Chaperones don’t need to pay for their slot, it really is just your physical presence that we need!

If you are at all interested, please reach out to me at kieran@ubcwaco.org. Thank you so so much everyone!

A note on gender: whilst Passport Camp is doing a lot to have a more nuanced and inclusive approach to gender when it comes to the kids, sadly this hasn’t yet extended to “required” chaperones of specific biological sexes. Please know that Passport is a safe and inclusive space for all LGBTQIA+ individuals (I have grilled them rigorously about it myself), but as of yet they don’t have updated language to implement that as far as the chaperones are concerned. If you self-identify in a way that you feel able and comfortable to be a chaperone for us, then that is beyond good enough for me - please do still get in touch!

Youth Camp Drivers

If you’re interested in saving UBC $2,000 by driving our Youth to and from camp this summer, please follow this link to sign up:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8aY2dZAOwzoIbZ9htyWD4id5xn5BeBcNL1JqpQzECsjhH3g/viewform?usp=sf_link

If you have any questions, please email kieran@ubcwaco.org.

Kids Volunteers

We are so thankful for our UBC Kids Volunteers! And it's that time again - to make a Summer calendar! If you are available to help on Sunday mornings or other times this semester please reach out to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org

Tech Booth Volunteers

We are in need of a few folks to join the rotation for our tech booth on Sunday mornings. No prior experience is required--we'll be happy to train you! Areas of need are lights, slides, and livestream. If you are interested, just email jamie@ubcwaco.org.

Passport Youth Camp - Sunday, June 11th-Thursday, June 15th

VBS - Monday, June 19th-Friday, June 23rd, 5:30-8:30pm

We are having VBS at the end of June this year and the theme is Compassion Camp: What Every Living Thing Needs! I'm so looking forward to spending this week with our kids and volunteers! And there is currently a sign up sheet for kids and volunteers in the lobby! Or you can email me directly! taylor@ubcwaco.org

Civil Rights Pilgrimage - Wednesday, July 12-Sunday, July 16th

UBC is looking at doing its first ever Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Memphis and Little Rock this July. This trip is for all ages, and designed to learn more about Civil Rights history in America, and spark conversation among your family and UBC’ers around how we might continue to create a more equitable world.

Passport Kids Camp - Sunday, July 22nd-Tuesday, July 25th

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often!

Thailand Trip - Monday, August 21st-Saturday, September 2nd

Our friends who UBC partnered with in Thailand for a number of years have requested our help. Their sending organization is hosting all the Asia field personnel in Thailand the week of August 21st, and they want our help with conference. Toph is going over to lead the morning devotions, and they have asked for a small team to come help with kids programming for four days.

🎉 Parishioner of the Week

The parishioners of the week are Holly Duke and Margo Shanks for building our Mother's Day backdrop.

📖 Preaching Schedule

5/21- Jamie
5/28- Craig (note: Craig will be sharing spoilers to the 2000 film Chocolat. If you have time, watch it between now and then.)

💭 Share Your Feedback

You’re invited to share your feedback (good, bad, or in-between) about the goings-on at UBC! All comments will be shared directly with the UBC Human Resources team who will then share it with Leadership Team, Finance Team, or Pastoral Staff as needed. Share your feedback here: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Britt Duke (brittrduke@gmail.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)
Marcus Franklin (M_Franklin@baylor.edu)
Shelly Taylor (Shellytaylor76@gmail.com)
Katie Robinson (katiekrobinson@yahoo.com)
Margo Shanks (Margo_Shanks@baylor.edu)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)
Ethan Cohen (ethancohen002@gmail.com)

ITLOTC 5-9-2023

Hello everyone, we are trying something new for our weekly staff articles. We are going to ask a single question to the staff and they will provide an answer. We hope this will be a fun way for everyone to get to know the staff a little bit better. 

This week's question: Who would be your celebrity parents?

Here are the answers:

  • Jeff: Drew Barrymore

  • Toph: Justin Timberlake and Jimmy Fallon

  • Taylor: Jennifer Garner and Mr. Rogers

  • Kirk: Jason Sudeikis and Hannah Waddingham - no explanation needed.

  • Kieran: Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellan. I love them with my whole heart

  • Brooke: Coach and Tami Taylor. Texas forever!

Youth - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

5th & 6th Graders - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

***There will be no Pints w/ Toph this week***

Youth Games Afternoon - Saturday, 1:00 pm at UBC

Giving Update

UBC survives on the generosity of our congregation. Your tithes and offerings allow us to continue to create a space that is welcoming to all, embraces beauty, and seeks to live life to the fullest.

You can give, as you’re able, on Sunday mornings or set up a single or recurring online gift here.

Youth Camp Drivers

If you’re interested in saving UBC $2,000 by driving our Youth to and from camp this summer, please follow this link to sign up:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8aY2dZAOwzoIbZ9htyWD4id5xn5BeBcNL1JqpQzECsjhH3g/viewform?usp=sf_link

If you have any questions, please email kieran@ubcwaco.org.

UBC Meal Train

Hello friends! We have so many reasons to put together meal trains. If you are interested in helping us get meals to our community members in need you can sign up at the front table or email Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org. No need to be a professional chef – even if you just had a busy day you can pick up some to-go and take it to someone who needs it! Thanks for being willing to help!

Kids Volunteers

We are so thankful for our UBC Kids Volunteers! And it's that time again - to make a Spring calendar! If you are available to help on Sunday mornings or other times this semester please reach out to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org

Youth Volunteers

Volunteers are a critical part of UBC’s Youth Group - it’s no exaggeration to say that it literally would not run without them. We’re in need of volunteers to engage with the kids, particularly at our Wednesday night meetings, and to make sure everyone is safe. There is also plenty of room to use specific skills or experience you might have - whether that’s leading lessons, running games, or something else entirely! For more information click this link and/or email kieran@ubcwaco.org.

Youth Dinner

If you’d like to get involved with the Youth Group but can’t volunteer on Wednesday nights you can sign-up to provide youth dinner (cooked, bought, or otherwise!) instead. Sign up for that here and Kieran will reach out to you at the beginning of the week you sign up to arrange details.

Youth Coffee w/ Kieran - Saturday, May 20th

VBS - Monday, June 19th-Friday, June 23rd, 5:30-8:30pm

We are having VBS at the end of June this year and the theme is Compassion Camp: What Every Living Thing Needs! I'm so looking forward to spending this week with our kids and volunteers! And there is currently a sign up sheet for kids and volunteers in the lobby! Or you can email me directly! taylor@ubcwaco.org

Civil Rights Pilgrimage - July 12-16th

UBC is looking at doing its first ever Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Memphis and Little Rock this July. This trip is for all ages, and designed to learn more about Civil Rights history in America, and spark conversation among your family and UBC’ers around how we might continue to create a more equitable world.

Passport Kids Camp - Sunday, July 22nd-Tuesday, July 25th

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often!

Thailand Trip - August 21st - September 2nd

Our friends who UBC partnered with in Thailand for a number of years have requested our help. Their sending organization is hosting all the Asia field personnel in Thailand the week of August 21st, and they want our help with conference. Toph is going over to lead the morning devotions, and they have asked for a small team to come help with kids programming for four days.

🎉 Parishioner of the Week

The parishioners of the week are Liz Honigmann and Hailey Miller; These two college students helped with Parents Night Out last Friday night.

📖 Preaching Schedule

5/14- Kirk
5/21- Jamie
5/28- Craig

💭 Share Your Feedback

You’re invited to share your feedback (good, bad, or in-between) about the goings-on at UBC! All comments will be shared directly with the UBC Human Resources team who will then share it with Leadership Team, Finance Team, or Pastoral Staff as needed. Share your feedback here: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Britt Duke (brittrduke@gmail.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)
Marcus Franklin (M_Franklin@baylor.edu)
Shelly Taylor (Shellytaylor76@gmail.com)
Katie Robinson (katiekrobinson@yahoo.com)
Margo Shanks (Margo_Shanks@baylor.edu)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)
Ethan Cohen (ethancohen002@gmail.com)

ITLOTC 5-2-2023

Sometimes, we need to stop and take a breath.

As I’m writing this, it’s officially May. *NSYNC has been proven correct, yet again.

If you are a student of any kind, or if you have any students who live with you, or if you know of any students in your world, you know that May has its challenges. The school year is tailing off - finals are happening (starting last Friday for MCC, starting this Saturday for Baylor). There’s an anxious energy all around because of this! Recently, I sat down at the Penland cafeteria for lunch and could not help but feel the anxiety - for both students and faculty friends - in the room.

The rainy end to April has also brought with us fun, new challenges in May - mosquitoes being just one. Our back yard is a hot muddy mess after the rains, and our dogs LOVE it. Our furniture and floors, however, do not.

Sometimes, we need to stop and take a breath.

May brings us Mother’s Day - where we can celebrate with those who have loved us and cared for us - whether they are the ones who birthed us or not. In our house, we also celebrate two birthdays, on the same day. Our youngest, Dylan, and my wife, Jill, share a birthday. So, while for some May is full of anxious energy for one reason - for me, there is a whole different kind of anxiety. Gifting is not my spiritual gift - I’m terrible at it, but I do keep trying. This leads to thoughts of disappointing not only on Mother’s Day but for two separate birthdays.

Sometimes, I need to stop and take a breath.

So, however your May turns out, remember that it’s perfectly ok to NOT be perfectly ok.

Stop, take a breath, and be thankful.

Kirk Hatcher
Interim Pastor

Youth - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

5th & 6th Graders - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

***There will be no Pints w/ Toph this week***

UBC Families-Parents Night Out - Friday, 5:30- 8:30 pm at UBC

This Friday we are having a Parent's Night Out! We're going to  do some crafts, eat some snacks (but please eat dinner beforehand), and watch a movie together! Feel free to sign up until 5pm on Wednesday! And volunteer to help if you want!

Youth Coffee w/ Kieran - Saturday, May 6th

Nübcers Luncheon - Sunday, May 7th

If you are new to UBC in the last 6 months, and are looking for more ways you can learn about who we are and get plugged in, we would love for you to stay for lunch after church on May 7th. This is a time in which you can ask questions of the staff, learn more about UBC’s history, and ways you can plug into community and serve. There will be a sign-up sheet in the foyer starting the week of April 16th. If you have any questions, please contact toph@ubcwaco.org.

Youth Camp Drivers

How would you like to save UBC $2000+ and help the Youth Group all at the same time???

Well boy oh boy do I have good news!

For the last few years, the Youth Group has rented vans to help get all of our Youth to Summer Camp. This usually means renting two 16-passenger vans for the whole duration of camp, which adds up pretty quickly - usually to the tune of about $2000.

Well, this year we wanted to try something different. We’re extending a call for volunteers to drive members of the Youth Group to and/or from Summer Camp!

Here are the details:

  • We have two dates available for volunteers - Sunday 11th June, and Thursday 15th June. If you can do both, that’s fantastic - if you can only do one, that’s equally brilliant!

  • Please note: we don’t currently have specific pick up and departure times available. However, based on previous years, on Sunday 11th we will likely depart from UBC between 10am-12pm, and pick up on Thursday 15th is usually flexible, but would also likely be around 10am-12pm.

  • Camp this year is at McMurry University in Abilene, Texas. It’s approximately 3 hours away, for a 6 hour round trip.

  • UBC will cover gas for any trips made to drop Youth off!

If you’re interested in signing up, please follow this link:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8aY2dZAOwzoIbZ9htyWD4id5xn5BeBcNL1JqpQzECsjhH3g/viewform?usp=sf_link

And fill out the Google Form there. It’ll ask you which day/s you are available to volunteer for, how many passengers you can take, and if you’ve done a background check with UBC in last 3 years (if not, no worries, we’ll just need to process one for you before camp!).

We all know that finances are tight at the moment - by donating your time in this way, you’ll be saving the church a lot of money, and you’ll be making a lot of youth very very happy!

If you have any questions, please reach out to me at kieran@ubcwaco.org.

Thank you so much team!

Giving Update

UBC survives on the generosity of our congregation. Your tithes and offerings allow us to continue to create a space that is welcoming to all, embraces beauty, and seeks to live life to the fullest.

You can give, as you’re able, on Sunday mornings or set up a single or recurring online gift here.

*The giving report has been updated to reflect total giving needs each month rather than fixed expenses only.

UBC Meal Train

Hello friends! We have so many reasons to put together meal trains. If you are interested in helping us get meals to our community members in need you can sign up at the front table or email Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org. No need to be a professional chef – even if you just had a busy day you can pick up some to-go and take it to someone who needs it! Thanks for being willing to help!

Kids Volunteers

We are so thankful for our UBC Kids Volunteers! And it's that time again - to make a Spring calendar! If you are available to help on Sunday mornings or other times this semester please reach out to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org

Youth Volunteers

Volunteers are a critical part of UBC’s Youth Group - it’s no exaggeration to say that it literally would not run without them. We’re in need of volunteers to engage with the kids, particularly at our Wednesday night meetings, and to make sure everyone is safe. There is also plenty of room to use specific skills or experience you might have - whether that’s leading lessons, running games, or something else entirely! For more information click this link and/or email kieran@ubcwaco.org.

Youth Dinner

If you’d like to get involved with the Youth Group but can’t volunteer on Wednesday nights you can sign-up to provide youth dinner (cooked, bought, or otherwise!) instead. Sign up for that here and Kieran will reach out to you at the beginning of the week you sign up for to arrange details.

Youth Games Afternoon - Saturday, May 13th

VBS - Monday, June 19th-Friday, June 23rd, 5:30-8:30pm

We are having VBS at the end of June this year and the theme is Compassion Camp: What Every Living Thing Needs! I'm so looking forward to spending this week with our kids and volunteers! And there is currently a sign up sheet for kids and volunteers in the lobby! Or you can email me directly! taylor@ubcwaco.org

Civil Rights Pilgrimage - July 12-16th

UBC is looking at doing its first ever Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Memphis and Little Rock this July. This trip is for all ages, and designed to learn more about Civil Rights history in America, and spark conversation among your family and UBC’ers around how we might continue to create a more equitable world.

Passport Kids Camp - Sunday, July 22nd-Tuesday, July 25th

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often!

Thailand Trip - August 21st - September 2nd

Our friends who UBC partnered with in Thailand for a number of years have requested our help. Their sending organization is hosting all the Asia field personnel in Thailand the week of August 21st, and they want our help with conference. Toph is going over to lead the morning devotions, and they have asked for a small team to come help with kids programming for four days.

🎉 Parishioner of the Week

Congratulations to our three graduates who were recognized on Mister Rogers Sunday: Cordell, Sarah, and Meagan.

📖 Preaching Schedule

5/7- Kirk
5/14- Kirk
5/21- Jamie
5/28- Craig

💭 Share Your Feedback

You’re invited to share your feedback (good, bad, or in-between) about the goings-on at UBC! All comments will be shared directly with the UBC Human Resources team who will then share it with Leadership Team, Finance Team, or Pastoral Staff as needed. Share your feedback here: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Britt Duke (brittrduke@gmail.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)
Marcus Franklin (M_Franklin@baylor.edu)
Shelly Taylor (Shellytaylor76@gmail.com)
Katie Robinson (katiekrobinson@yahoo.com)
Margo Shanks (Margo_Shanks@baylor.edu)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)
Ethan Cohen (ethancohen002@gmail.com)

ITLOTC 4-25-2023

Hello everyone!

I wanted to talk this week about a very fun event happening in my near future - this May, I’ll be back in the UK for a short time to officiate my Dad’s wedding!

I’m really excited, to say the least - not just because my Dad and his partner Maria have been together for a long time, and I’m so glad they’re deciding to get married. It’ll be great to see my Dad so happy, and it’ll be really fun to celebrate them back in the place I was born - it’s been a year since I was last home, so that will be fantastic.

I was on a FaceTime call with my Dad and Maria a few days ago, just going over what they’d like me to say during the ceremony, what their vision was for it, and so on. My Dad, like myself and all good Brits, was using a lot of humour to deflect from the weight of emotion he was feeling. We all do that, don’t we? It was so beautiful to actually name it on the call with them - it’s so rare in life that we actually take the time to think about how we feel, how we would put those feelings into words, and then to say those words with all the earnestness and sincerity we have.

I really encouraged them to seize this opportunity to be vulnerable with themselves and each other, and to really think about what they’d want to say to each other as part of their vows. It’s so rare we get that opportunity - to truly let our guard down, to be seen by each other, and to speak completely from the heart. I could see my Dad getting teary even over the video, because underneath all his good natured humour and jokes, he really, really loves Maria. And she really, really loves him. And this May, I get to hear them say that to each other in person - in front of all the people they love most in the world, and also to each other as though they were the only people in the whole world.

Consider this an invitation to genuineness, to vulnerability. What or who comes to mind when you think about being vulnerable in a way you’re normally not? I encourage you this week to think of someone or something that you love and cherish dearly, but maybe you’ve not said it out loud much recently, or maybe ever. We don’t have much time in this life, never as much as we want. Tell the people you love that you love them - and watch it change the world as their face lights up, and they tell you that they love you too.

Kieran
Youth Pastor

Youth - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

5th & 6th Graders - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

Pints w/ Toph - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at Pinewood

Youth Games Afternoon - Saturday, 1:00 pm at UBC

UBCYP Gathering - Thursday, 7:00 pm at Southern Roots

Join us for our next UBC Young Professionals gathering on April 27th. This is a great opportunity to meet other young professionals at UBC, and we would love for you to join us. We will be gathering at Southern Roots Brewing Company. If you have any questions, please contact toph@ubcwaco.org. You can sign up in the foyer or email Toph.

Jameson McGregor Show - Friday, 8:00 pm at Brotherwell

Greetings. This is Jamie. I'm playing a show at Brotherwell Brewing on April 28th at 8pm. When I write songs, sometimes they become Ubcmusic songs (if they are ones we might sing together), other times they become Jameson McGregor songs (if they are sad boi songs that I write for myself), and sometimes they are a little bit of both. I say that to say--you might hear a couple of familiar songs, but in general this will be a different catalogue than we sing on Sundays! Also, Benjamin Simmons has filled in for me a few times in the past (especially during lockdown), and he's opening! I wanted to make sure y'all knew about it because I think the more ubc folks are there, the better hang it will be. Tickets are $10--I'm not sure if they are selling them ahead of time, but you can for sure just show up and pay at the door.

Mister Rogers Sunday - Sunday, 10:45 am at UBC

If you are graduating (HS, College, Grad School), we have our annual Mr. Rogers service coming up on April 30th. We would love to recognize you during the service, and invite you to a luncheon after church with the staff. There will be a sign-up sheet in the foyer, or you can email toph@ubcwaco.org.

Giving Update

UBC survives on the generosity of our congregation. Your tithes and offerings allow us to continue to create a space that is welcoming to all, embraces beauty, and seeks to live life to the fullest.

You can give, as you’re able, on Sunday mornings or set up a single or recurring online gift here.

*The giving report format has been altered to reflect total giving needs each month moving forward rather than fixed expenses only.

UBC Meal Train

Hello friends! We have so many reasons to put together meal trains. If you are interested in helping us get meals to our community members in need you can sign up at the front table or email Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org. No need to be a professional chef – even if you just had a busy day you can pick up some to-go and take it to someone who needs it! Thanks for being willing to help!

Kids Volunteers

We are so thankful for our UBC Kids Volunteers! And it's that time again - to make a Spring calendar! If you are available to help on Sunday mornings or other times this semester please reach out to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org

Youth Volunteers

Volunteers are a critical part of UBC’s Youth Group - it’s no exaggeration to say that it literally would not run without them. We’re in need of volunteers to engage with the kids, particularly at our Wednesday night meetings, and to make sure everyone is safe. There is also plenty of room to use specific skills or experience you might have - whether that’s leading lessons, running games, or something else entirely! For more information click this link and/or email kieran@ubcwaco.org.

Youth Dinner

If you’d like to get involved with the Youth Group but can’t volunteer on Wednesday nights you can sign-up to provide youth dinner (cooked, bought, or otherwise!) instead. Sign up for that here and Kieran will reach out to you at the beginning of the week you sign up for to arrange details.

UBC Families-Parents Night Out - Friday, May 5th

Youth Coffee w/ Kieran - Saturday, May 6th

Nübcers Luncheon - Sunday, May 7th

If you are new to UBC in the last 6 months, and are looking for more ways you can learn about who we are and get plugged in, we would love for you to stay for lunch after church on May 7th. This is a time in which you can ask questions of the staff, learn more about UBC’s history, and ways you can plug into community and serve. There will be a sign-up sheet in the foyer starting the week of April 16th. If you have any questions, please contact toph@ubcwaco.org.

VBS - Monday, June 19th-Friday, June 23rd

Civil Rights Pilgrimage - July 12-16th

UBC is looking at doing its first ever Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Memphis and Little Rock this July. This trip is for all ages, and designed to learn more about Civil Rights history in America, and spark conversation among your family and UBC’ers around how we might continue to create a more equitable world.

Passport Kids Camp - Sunday, July 22nd-Tuesday, July 25th

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often!

Thailand Trip - August 21st - September 2nd

Our friends who UBC partnered with in Thailand for a number of years have requested our help. Their sending organization is hosting all the Asia field personnel in Thailand the week of August 21st, and they want our help with conference. Toph is going over to lead the morning devotions, and they have asked for a small team to come help with kids programming for four days.

🎉 Parishioner of the Week

The parishioners of the week are our UBC newlyweds. Best wishes to Marcus and Jill, Brian and Elyse, and Alex and Emily.

📖 Preaching Schedule

4/30- Mister Rogers
5/7- Kirk
5/14- Kirk
5/21- Jamie
5/28- Craig

💭 Share Your Feedback

You’re invited to share your feedback (good, bad, or in-between) about the goings-on at UBC! All comments will be shared directly with the UBC Human Resources team who will then share it with Leadership Team, Finance Team, or Pastoral Staff as needed. Share your feedback here: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Britt Duke (brittrduke@gmail.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)
Marcus Franklin (M_Franklin@baylor.edu)
Shelly Taylor (Shellytaylor76@gmail.com)
Katie Robinson (katiekrobinson@yahoo.com)
Margo Shanks (Margo_Shanks@baylor.edu)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)
Ethan Cohen (ethancohen002@gmail.com)

ITLOTC 4-18-2023

Just yesterday I watched an ant crossing a path, through the

tumbled pine needles she toiled.

And I thought: she will never live another life but this one.

And I thought: if she lives her life with all her strength

is she not wonderful and wise?

And I continued this up the miraculous pyramid of everything

until I came to myself…

– Mary Oliver Reckless Poem

The above is the beginning of a Mary Oliver poem I read recently, and it reminded me of one my favorite Sundays at UBC: Mr. Rogers Sunday. It’s been a long-standing tradition at UBC, before I started attending almost 15 years ago, that we would celebrate our college graduates by learning from the life and work of Fred Rogers. In fact, this will be our 20th year for Mr. Rogers Sunday!! Fred Rogers was an ordained Presbyterian Minister, who’s call was to minister to children and families using mass media. This is how the beloved show, Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood came into being.

One of the greatest gift Fred Rogers gave during his show each week, was intentional and unconditional love. As you UBC has grown and changed over the last 20 years, I believe we are living more into the spirit of Mr. Rogers than ever before. As we have moved to better understand our own privilege and become fully inclusive of our LGBTQIA community, we are better equipped to offer more intentional and unconditional love.

There is a video that has surfaced recently of Fred Rogers singing one of his songs about boys and girls. Some have used this video to say Fred was not supportive of the trans community. While we cannot ask Fred directly, I believe the video is about the equality of both sexes, acknowledging boys are wonderful and girls are wonderful: “everybody is fancy, everybody is fine.” Mr. Rogers had meaningful relationships with members of the queer community who were on his show, and while he made some mistakes in navigating those at times, Fred’s understanding, love, and inclusivity grew over time. As we approach this Sunday, we want to be clear on where stand as community:

UBC unequivocally supports the queer community, completely affirming them in their identity and their calls to service in ministry. Queer folks can serve in all capacities, engage in communion, and be married at UBC.

Fred Rogers said: “I think everybody longs to be loved, and longs to know that he or she is lovable…consequently, the greatest thing that we can do is to help someone know that are loved and capable of loving.”

UBC, may you help someone today know they are loved, and capable of loving.

Embrace Beauty,

Toph Whisnant
Community Pastor

Youth - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

5th & 6th Graders - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

Pints w/ Toph - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at Pinewood

Youth Coffee w/ Kieran - Saturday, 1:00 pm at Pinewood

Civil Rights Pilgrimage Information Meeting - Sunday, after church at UBC

UBC is looking at doing its first ever Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Memphis and Little Rock this July. This trip is for all ages, and designed to learn more about Civil Rights history in America, and spark conversation among your family and UBC’ers around how we might continue to create a more equitable world. There will be an information meeting on Sunday, April 23rd, after church. If you have any questions, please email toph@ubcwaco.org.

Thailand Trip Information Meeting - Sunday, after church at UBC

Our friends who UBC partnered with in Thailand for a number of years have requested our help. Their sending organization is hosting all the Asia field personnel in Thailand the week of August 21st, and they want our help with conference. Toph is going over to lead the morning devotions, and they have asked for a small team to come help with kids programming for four days. There will be an information meeting after church on April 23rd. If you have any questions, please contact Toph.

LGBTQIA+ and Allies Gathering - Sunday, 12: 15 pm at UBC

Join us for our next gathering as we get to know each other’s stories and enjoy some delicious food. This gathering will be at UBC, after the Sunday morning service, and is a potluck. Please bring your favorite dish to share with the group. There will be a sign-up sheet in the foyer, or you can email toph@ubcwaco.org.

Giving Update

UBC survives on the generosity of our congregation. Your tithes and offerings allow us to continue to create a space that is welcoming to all, embraces beauty, and seeks to live life to the fullest.

You can give, as you’re able, on Sunday mornings or set up a single or recurring online gift here.

UBC Meal Train

Hello friends! We have so many reasons to put together meal trains. If you are interested in helping us get meals to our community members in need you can sign up at the front table or email Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org. No need to be a professional chef – even if you just had a busy day you can pick up some to-go and take it to someone who needs it! Thanks for being willing to help!

Kids Volunteers

We are so thankful for our UBC Kids Volunteers! And it's that time again - to make a Spring calendar! If you are available to help on Sunday mornings or other times this semester please reach out to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org

Youth Volunteers

Volunteers are a critical part of UBC’s Youth Group - it’s no exaggeration to say that it literally would not run without them. We’re in need of volunteers to engage with the kids, particularly at our Wednesday night meetings, and to make sure everyone is safe. There is also plenty of room to use specific skills or experience you might have - whether that’s leading lessons, running games, or something else entirely! For more information click this link and/or email kieran@ubcwaco.org.

Youth Dinner

If you’d like to get involved with the Youth Group but can’t volunteer on Wednesday nights you can sign-up to provide youth dinner (cooked, bought, or otherwise!) instead. Sign up for that here and Kieran will reach out to you at the beginning of the week you sign up for to arrange details.

UBCYP Gathering - April 27th

Join us for our next UBC Young Professionals gathering on April 27th. This is a great opportunity to meet other young professionals at UBC, and we would love for you to join us. We will be gathering at Southern Roots Brewing Company. If you have any questions, please contact toph@ubcwaco.org. You can sign up in the foyer or email Toph.

Jameson McGregor Show - April 28th

Greetings. This is Jamie. I'm playing a show at Brotherwell Brewing on April 28th at 8pm. When I write songs, sometimes they become Ubcmusic songs (if they are ones we might sing together), other times they become Jameson McGregor songs (if they are sad boi songs that I write for myself), and sometimes they are a little bit of both. I say that to say--you might hear a couple of familiar songs, but in general this will be a different catalogue than we sing on Sundays! Also, Benjamin Simmons has filled in for me a few times in the past (especially during lockdown), and he's opening! I wanted to make sure y'all knew about it because I think the more ubc folks are there, the better hang it will be. Tickets are $10--I'm not sure if they are selling them ahead of time, but you can for sure just show up and pay at the door.

Mister Rogers Sunday - Sunday, April 30th

If you are graduating (HS, College, Grad School), we have our annual Mr. Rogers service coming up on April 30th. We would love to recognize you during the service, and invite you to a luncheon after church with the staff. There will be a sign-up sheet in the foyer, or you can email toph@ubcwaco.org.

UBC Families-Parents Night Out - Friday, May 5th

Nübcers Luncheon - Sunday, May 7th

If you are new to UBC in the last 6 months, and are looking for more ways you can learn about who we are and get plugged in, we would love for you to stay for lunch after church on May 7th. This is a time in which you can ask questions of the staff, learn more about UBC’s history, and ways you can plug into community and serve. There will be a sign-up sheet in the foyer starting the week of April 16th. If you have any questions, please contact toph@ubcwaco.org.

VBS - Monday, June 19th-Friday, June 23rd

Civil Rights Pilgrimage - July 12-16th

UBC is looking at doing its first ever Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Memphis and Little Rock this July. This trip is for all ages, and designed to learn more about Civil Rights history in America, and spark conversation among your family and UBC’ers around how we might continue to create a more equitable world.

Passport Kids Camp - Sunday, July 22nd-Tuesday, July 25th

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often!

Thailand Trip - August 21st - September 2nd

Our friends who UBC partnered with in Thailand for a number of years have requested our help. Their sending organization is hosting all the Asia field personnel in Thailand the week of August 21st, and they want our help with conference. Toph is going over to lead the morning devotions, and they have asked for a small team to come help with kids programming for four days.

🎉 Parishioner of the Week

The parishioner of the week is Sarah Nelson, who filled in the gaps in our children’s formation classes two Sundays in a row.

📖 Preaching Schedule

4/23- Kirk
4/30- Mister Rogers
5/7- Kirk
5/14- Kirk
5/21- Jamie
5/28- Craig

💭 Share Your Feedback

You’re invited to share your feedback (good, bad, or in-between) about the goings-on at UBC! All comments will be shared directly with the UBC Human Resources team who will then share it with Leadership Team, Finance Team, or Pastoral Staff as needed. Share your feedback here: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Britt Duke (brittrduke@gmail.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)
Marcus Franklin (M_Franklin@baylor.edu)
Shelly Taylor (Shellytaylor76@gmail.com)
Katie Robinson (katiekrobinson@yahoo.com)
Margo Shanks (Margo_Shanks@baylor.edu)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)
Ethan Cohen (ethancohen002@gmail.com)

ITLOTC 4-4-2023

Here is the thing about Easter: it hasn’t always been my favorite part of the Christian Calendar. When I was a kid, it was Christmas (presents, obviously). But it was also because after a month of celebrating and hot chocolate and pretty decorations we got two weeks off school. Plus, it was easy to understand. Jesus was born! A little baby! That was always exciting. Plus, he had come to help us, to save us! Double thumbs up all the way around!

So, Easter fell somewhere below that. Maybe it was because of the weather? If it wasn’t raining it was SO hot. And I was wearing a hot, crinkly, dress. Also, Jesus came back to life which seemed very cool, but he did have to die first which seemed considerably less cool. Also, people were eating a lot of fish for some reason. And as a child I was not a fan of that.

But as I grew up and learned and changed – as we all do – I’ve developed an appreciation for Easter that I couldn’t have held as a child. For all Holy Week and Lent actually. To seeing in the story that Jesus sets his face toward Jerusalem knowing what is coming.  

Last week seeing the joy on our children’s faces as they danced into the Sanctuary or at the Egg Hunt as they ran around searching for eggs made me think of the excitement of the crowds crying out for Jesus and then – before a week’s time even – the tragedy that had befallen. Jesus was dead. Like real life, joy and pain so close together.

Do we know when we cry out what it is we cry out for? As a child the story of resurrection seemed wild, fantastical, almost impossible to believe. It seems like so much more now. We see resurrections happen every day. Relationships, friendships we thought might never be mended, the green growth of springtime that we thought would never return, Jamie in a white shirt on Easter morning. Reminding us that hope is everywhere.

I hope you’ll join us this week. Not just because it’s Easter. But because we all need a reminder that hope is everywhere. Because we all need to see, to live, to experience a resurrection.

Taylor

Update from the Pastor Search Committee

As stated at Town Hall, after reviewing resumes and responses, the committee  has completed Zoom interviews with four candidates. Over the next few weeks, we will be communicating with candidates and working out the logistics for next steps in this process. We will continue to provide more updates as we have them.

Annual Giving Statements

UBC Annual Giving Statements were distributed by email in early January. If you did not receive yours, please contact Jeff to confirm we have the correct email address on file.

Youth - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

5th & 6th Graders - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

There will be NO Pints w/ Toph this week

Pints will resume as usual next week.

Maundy Thursday Potluck - Thursday, 5:30 pm at UBC

Good Friday - Friday, 5:30 pm at UBC

Youth Coffee w/ Kieran - Saturday, 1:00 pm at Pinewood

Easter - Sunday, 10:45 am at UBC

Giving Update

UBC survives on the generosity of our congregation. Your tithes and offerings allow us to continue to create a space that is welcoming to all, embraces beauty, and seeks to live life to the fullest.

You can give, as you’re able, on Sunday mornings or set up a single or recurring online gift here.

UBC Meal Train

Hello friends! We have so many reasons to put together meal trains. If you are interested in helping us get meals to our community members in need you can sign up at the front table or email Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org. No need to be a professional chef – even if you just had a busy day you can pick up some to-go and take it to someone who needs it! Thanks for being willing to help!

Kids Volunteers

We are so thankful for our UBC Kids Volunteers! And it's that time again - to make a Spring calendar! If you are available to help on Sunday mornings or other times this semester please reach out to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org

Youth Volunteers

Volunteers are a critical part of UBC’s Youth Group - it’s no exaggeration to say that it literally would not run without them. We’re in need of volunteers to engage with the kids, particularly at our Wednesday night meetings, and to make sure everyone is safe. There is also plenty of room to use specific skills or experience you might have - whether that’s leading lessons, running games, or something else entirely! For more information click this link and/or email kieran@ubcwaco.org.

Youth Dinner

If you’d like to get involved with the Youth Group but can’t volunteer on Wednesday nights you can sign-up to provide youth dinner (cooked, bought, or otherwise!) instead. Sign up for that here and Kieran will reach out to you at the beginning of the week you sign up for to arrange details.

College Hangout - Thursday, April 13th

Join us for our first college hangout of the semester, as we get to know each other, play some games, and share some food together.  We will be gathering from 7-9pm at Toph’s Casa.  You will be able to sign-up in the foyer throughout March, or you can email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up.

UBC Women’s Group Theme Party - Friday, April 14th

Save the date for our April hangout on Friday, April 14th at 7pm hosted by Sarah Miller! This will be a theme party and you must RSVP.

The UBC Women’s Group is for those women who are out of college who want to join a group to connect with other women. Most of our members are in their 30s and 40s, but any woman past college-age is welcome! We plan monthly gatherings to just hang out and chat about life. We have themed parties sometimes too. Join us! For more information, please contact Tiffany Covert at covertjt@yahoo.com.

LGBTQIA+ and Allies Gathering - April 23rd

Join us for our next gathering as we get to know each other’s stories and enjoy some delicious food. This gathering will be at UBC, after the Sunday morning service, and is a potluck. Please bring your favorite dish to share with the group. There will be a sign-up sheet in the foyer, or you can email toph@ubcwaco.org.

Civil Rights Pilgrimage Information Meeting - April 23rd

UBC is looking at doing its first ever Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Memphis and Little Rock this July. This trip is for all ages, and designed to learn more about Civil Rights history in America, and spark conversation among your family and UBC’ers around how we might continue to create a more equitable world. There will be an information meeting on Sunday, April 23rd, after church. If you have any questions, please email toph@ubcwaco.org.

Thailand Trip Information Meeting - April 23rd

Our friends who UBC partnered with in Thailand for a number of years have requested our help. Their sending organization is hosting all the Asia field personnel in Thailand the week of August 21st, and they want our help with conference. Toph is going over to lead the morning devotions, and they have asked for a small team to come help with kids programming for four days. There will be an information meeting after church on April 23rd. If you have any questions, please contact Toph.

UBCYP Gathering - April 27th

Join us for our next UBC Young Professionals gathering on April 27th. This is a great opportunity to meet other young professionals at UBC, and we would love for you to join us. We will be gathering at Southern Roots Brewing Company. If you have any questions, please contact toph@ubcwaco.org. You can sign up in the foyer or email Toph.

Mister Rogers Sunday - Sunday, April 30th

If you are graduating (HS, College, Grad School), we have our annual Mr. Rogers service coming up on April 30th. We would love to recognize you during the service, and invite you to a luncheon after church with the staff. There will be a sign-up sheet in the foyer, or you can email toph@ubcwaco.org.

UBC Families-Parents Night Out - Friday, May 5th

Nübcers Luncheon - Sunday, May 7th

If you are new to UBC in the last 6 months, and are looking for more ways you can learn about who we are and get plugged in, we would love for you to stay for lunch after church on May 7th. This is a time in which you can ask questions of the staff, learn more about UBC’s history, and ways you can plug into community and serve. There will be a sign-up sheet in the foyer starting the week of April 16th. If you have any questions, please contact toph@ubcwaco.org.

VBS - Monday, June 19th-Friday, June 23rd

Civil Rights Pilgrimage - July 12-16th

UBC is looking at doing its first ever Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Memphis and Little Rock this July. This trip is for all ages, and designed to learn more about Civil Rights history in America, and spark conversation among your family and UBC’ers around how we might continue to create a more equitable world.

Passport Kids Camp - Sunday, July 22nd-Tuesday, July 25th

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often!

Thailand Trip - August 21st - September 2nd

Our friends who UBC partnered with in Thailand for a number of years have requested our help. Their sending organization is hosting all the Asia field personnel in Thailand the week of August 21st, and they want our help with conference. Toph is going over to lead the morning devotions, and they have asked for a small team to come help with kids programming for four days.

🎉 Parishioner of the Week

The parishioners of the week are our youngest UBCers, who were eager to share and rehide some of their own Easter eggs so that a late arrival was also able to participate.

📖 Preaching Schedule

4/9- Kerri
4/16- Kieran
4/23- Kirk
4/30- Mister Rogers
5/7- Kirk
5/14- Kirk
5/21- Jamie
5/28- Craig

💭 Share Your Feedback

You’re invited to share your feedback (good, bad, or in-between) about the goings-on at UBC! All comments will be shared directly with the UBC Human Resources team who will then share it with Leadership Team, Finance Team, or Pastoral Staff as needed. Share your feedback here: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Britt Duke (brittrduke@gmail.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)
Marcus Franklin (M_Franklin@baylor.edu)
Shelly Taylor (Shellytaylor76@gmail.com)
Katie Robinson (katiekrobinson@yahoo.com)
Margo Shanks (Margo_Shanks@baylor.edu)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)
Ethan Cohen (ethancohen002@gmail.com)

ITLOTC 3-28-2023

Holy Week

Greetings. Just wanted to take a minute to give you a rundown on what to plan for next week.

This Sunday is Palm Sunday, when we remember Jesus’ entering into Jerusalem for the last time. If you’ve got kiddos, we will have palm branches for them to wave and dance with down the aisles at the beginning of the service. I’d recommend shooting for a 10:30 arrival time so they’ve got time to grab a palm and get with their class.

We’ll also be having a picnic after church at Miss Nellie’s Pretty Place in Cameron Park, as well as an egg hunt. If you want to bring picnic food from home, you can use the fridge at church; otherwise just plan to grab something on the way!

Next Thursday we’ll gather for our annual Maundy Thursday Potluck at 5:30. Bring some food to share as we eat together and hear the story of Jesus’ last meal with his friends.

Next Friday we’ll gather at 5:30 to remember the execution of Jesus. This liturgy is about 30 minutes long, if that helps you plan.

And then, of course, Easter is next Sunday. We’ll gather for our Sunday service at the normal 10:45 time.

I’d like to encourage you to make time to come to all of these things. I know we are all busy in different ways, but I also know that the stories we will be sharing and encountering during Holy Week emphasize two cores of our faith practice: the self-giving love of God and the hope that God is making all things new.

Here is a condensed version of the details, if that helps:

4/2- Palm Sunday (10:45; ft. Picnic and egg hunt after church)
4/6- Maundy Thursday Potluck (bring food to share; 5:30)
4/7- Good Friday (5:30)
4/9- Easter (10:45)

Take care,

Jamie

Sustainability and UBC

Click the link to view some of the sustainability goals/ideas for UBC discussed during the recent sustainability luncheon.

Youth - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

5th & 6th Graders - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

Pints w/ Toph - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at Pinewood

Youth Games Afternoon - Saturday, 1:00 pm at UBC

Palm Sunday - Sunday, 10:45 am at UBC

Picnic in the Park & Easter Egg Hunt - Sunday, after church at Miss Nellie’s Pretty Place, Cameron Park

Join us for a picnic and easter egg hunt in Cameron Park after church on Sunday, April 2. When the service ends, go grab some food and drinks, or pack a picnic before church. We will meet near the Cameron Park Clubhouse and Miss Nellie’s Pretty place. Bring a lawn chair or blanket for your household to sit on. If you have any questions, please contact taylor@ubcwaco.org.

*Please bring your own baskets for any children who are planning to hunt eggs.

Giving Update

UBC survives on the generosity of our congregation. Your tithes and offerings allow us to continue to create a space that is welcoming to all, embraces beauty, and seeks to live life to the fullest.

You can give, as you’re able, on Sunday mornings or set up a single or recurring online gift here.

Kids Volunteers

We are so thankful for our UBC Kids Volunteers! And it's that time again - to make a Spring calendar! If you are available to help on Sunday mornings or other times this semester please reach out to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org

Youth Volunteers

Volunteers are a critical part of UBC’s Youth Group - it’s no exaggeration to say that it literally would not run without them. We’re in need of volunteers to engage with the kids, particularly at our Wednesday night meetings, and to make sure everyone is safe. There is also plenty of room to use specific skills or experience you might have - whether that’s leading lessons, running games, or something else entirely! For more information click this link and/or email kieran@ubcwaco.org.

Youth Dinner

If you’d like to get involved with the Youth Group but can’t volunteer on Wednesday nights you can sign-up to provide youth dinner (cooked, bought, or otherwise!) instead. Sign up for that here and Kieran will reach out to you at the beginning of the week you sign up for to arrange details.

Maundy Thursday Potluck - Thursday, April 6th

Good Friday - Friday, April 7th

Youth Coffee w/ Kieran - Saturday, April 8th

Easter - Sunday, April 9thCollege Hangout - Thursday, April 13th

Join us for our first college hangout of the semester, as we get to know each other, play some games, and share some food together.  We will be gathering from 7-9pm at Toph’s Casa.  You will be able to sign-up in the foyer throughout March, or you can email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up.

UBC Women’s Group Theme Party - Friday, April 14th

Save the date for our April hangout on Friday, April 14th at 7pm hosted by Sarah Miller! This will be a theme party and you must RSVP.

The UBC Women’s Group is for those women who are out of college who want to join a group to connect with other women. Most of our members are in their 30s and 40s, but any woman past college-age is welcome! We plan monthly gatherings to just hang out and chat about life. We have themed parties sometimes too. Join us! For more information, please contact Tiffany Covert at covertjt@yahoo.com.

Mister Rogers Sunday - Sunday, April 30th

UBC Families-Parents Night Out - Friday, May 5th

Nübcers Luncheon - Sunday, May 7th

VBS - Monday, June 19th-Friday, June 23rd

Passport Kids Camp - Sunday, July 22nd-Tuesday, July 25th

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often!

🎉 Parishioner of the Week

The parishioner of the week is Jeff Lewis who cleaned all the coffee mugs.

📖 Preaching Schedule

4/2- Craig
4/9- Kerri
4/16- Kieran
4/23- Kirk
4/30- Mister Rogers
5/7- Kirk
5/14- Kirk
5/21- Jamie
5/28- Craig

💭 Share Your Feedback

You’re invited to share your feedback (good, bad, or in-between) about the goings-on at UBC! All comments will be shared directly with the UBC Human Resources team who will then share it with Leadership Team, Finance Team, or Pastoral Staff as needed. Share your feedback here: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Britt Duke (brittrduke@gmail.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)
Marcus Franklin (M_Franklin@baylor.edu)
Shelly Taylor (Shellytaylor76@gmail.com)
Katie Robinson (katiekrobinson@yahoo.com)
Margo Shanks (Margo_Shanks@baylor.edu)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)
Ethan Cohen (ethancohen002@gmail.com)

ITLOTC 3-21-2023

It's no secret that one of our most involved and important families of Waco had to relocate for the safety of their kids. Texas doesn’t make it easy to live and I don’t see that changing any time soon. No family or person should be forced to leave their home because of someone’s inability to grasp something that doesn’t affect them in any shape or form. Those that scream that it goes against their religion must often forget that we are taught to love thy neighbors as if they were their own. But the point is they forget that what others do doesn’t affect them nor will it ever affect them. We lost a strong family who was valued in multiple communities and I would find it incredibly difficult to forgive Texas for their bullish moves and baseless claims.

I am, however, incredibly grateful for the fact that UBC strives to build a welcoming and loving community and we need more of UBC’s generosity and heart. Let's continue to work together and be willing to continue to learn about things that may not make sense to us. The only direction that makes sense is the direction towards a loving, unified and welcoming community.

Jeff Lewis
Office Manager

UBCYP Gathering - Tuesday, 6:00 pm at Top(h) Golf

Our March gathering is tonight from 6-8pm at Top(h) Golf.  Please bring $5 to help cover the cost of the bay rental.  Email toph@ubcwaco.org if you have any questions.

Youth - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

5th & 6th Graders - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

Pints w/ Toph - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at Pinewood

Backside - Friday, 7:00 pm at UBC

Youth Coffee w/ Kieran - Saturday, 1:00 pm at Pinewood

Town Hall - Sunday, after church at UBC

Giving Update

UBC survives on the generosity of our congregation. Your tithes and offerings allow us to continue to create a space that is welcoming to all, embraces beauty, and seeks to live life to the fullest.

You can give, as you’re able, on Sunday mornings or set up a single or recurring online gift here.

Kids Volunteers

We are so thankful for our UBC Kids Volunteers! And it's that time again - to make a Spring calendar! If you are available to help on Sunday mornings or other times this semester please reach out to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org

Youth Volunteers

Volunteers are a critical part of UBC’s Youth Group - it’s no exaggeration to say that it literally would not run without them. We’re in need of volunteers to engage with the kids, particularly at our Wednesday night meetings, and to make sure everyone is safe. There is also plenty of room to use specific skills or experience you might have - whether that’s leading lessons, running games, or something else entirely! For more information click this link and/or email kieran@ubcwaco.org.

Youth Dinner

If you’d like to get involved with the Youth Group but can’t volunteer on Wednesday nights you can sign-up to provide youth dinner (cooked, bought, or otherwise!) instead. Sign up for that here and Kieran will reach out to you at the beginning of the week you sign up for to arrange details.

LGBTQIA+ and Allies Meetup - Tuesday, March 28th

It is time for our monthly gathering for all folks who our LGBTQIA+ and allies.  We would love for you to join us for a night of getting to know one another better, sharing stories, and some delicious food.  We will be gathering at Toph’s Casa, and you can sign-up in the foyer or by emailing toph@ubcwaco.org.

Palm Sunday - Sunday, April 2nd

Maundy Thursday Potluck - Thursday, April 6th

Good Friday - Friday, April 7th

Easter - Sunday, April 9th

College Hangout - Thursday, April 13th

Join us for our first college hangout of the semester, as we get to know each other, play some games, and share some food together.  We will be gathering from 7-9pm at Toph’s Casa.  You will be able to sign-up in the foyer throughout March, or you can email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up.

Mister Rogers Sunday - Sunday, April 30th

UBC Families-Parents Night Out - Friday, May 5th

Nübcers Luncheon - Sunday, May 7th

VBS - Monday, June 19th-Friday, June 23rd

Passport Kids Camp - Sunday, July 22nd-Tuesday, July 25th

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often!

🎉 Parishioner of the Week

The parishioner of the week is Quinton Raley for being a super awesome and incredibly brave kid.

📖 Preaching Schedule

3/26: Kerri Fisher

💭 Share Your Feedback

You’re invited to share your feedback (good, bad, or in-between) about the goings-on at UBC! All comments will be shared directly with the UBC Human Resources team who will then share it with Leadership Team, Finance Team, or Pastoral Staff as needed. Share your feedback here: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Britt Duke (brittrduke@gmail.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)
Marcus Franklin (M_Franklin@baylor.edu)
Shelly Taylor (Shellytaylor76@gmail.com)
Katie Robinson (katiekrobinson@yahoo.com)
Margo Shanks (Margo_Shanks@baylor.edu)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)
Ethan Cohen (ethancohen002@gmail.com)

ITLOTC 3-14-2023

Lent has been a real struggle for me this year. Honestly, I wasn’t looking forward to this season of ashes and lament. So……it’s been a bit of struggle. My initial desire was to add something to my daily routine that would help me with this struggle. I’ve always found comfort in The Daily Office. I jumped right in, beginning on Ash Wednesday. By the weekend after Ash Wednesday, I was out. Then came the guilt with a side of shame that can occur after such a short stint of attempting to do something.

However, at some point, I realized that my struggle **IS** my lent practice this year. I want to dig in and figure out why it is such a struggle. I have had to come to grips with the fact that during this season of lent, the journey is more important than the end result. It’s not that I don’t have the desire or the know how to sit down with the daily office each day…it’s that I don’t want to do it out of obligation. I want this to come from a “want to” rather than a “have to.” Somewhere between the “want to” and the “have to” is where I find myself spending a lot of time this season. And it’s frustrating.

In doing anything creative, I’ve heard it said and read the words that say something to the effect, “just sit down and do the work.” If you’re having writer’s block, “just sit down and do the work.” When it doesn’t feel like today is the day to do your creative thing, “just sit down and do the work.” At one point in my life, I treated something like the daily office with the same kind of “just sit down and do the work.” I just can’t do that anymore. My struggle is in wanting the “have to” to become my “want to.” And right now, I just can’t do it.

So……I sit and work through the struggle. I’m stuck in “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return,” which come to think of it, isn’t such a terrible place to be stuck during this season.

Kirk Hatcher
Interim Pastor

Finance Team Nominations

We still have a few spots we need to fill on our Finance Team. If you know anyone who would be willing and able to serve the church in this way, please send your nominations in.

If you have questions about serving on the Finance Team and want to learn about what is involved, please feel free to read our bylaws or email LeadershipTeam@UBCWaco.org. Nominations can be sent to our email address or to any of our staff members.

Youth - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

5th & 6th Graders - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

Pints w/ Toph - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at Pinewood

UBC Women’s Group Monthly Hangout - Friday, 7:00 pm at DiCampli’s

Please RSVP to Tiffany Covert or Shelly Taylor as soon as possible so we can make a reservation.

The UBC Women’s Group is for those women who are out of college who want to join a group to connect with other women. Most of our members are in their 30s and 40s, but any woman past college-age is welcome! We plan monthly gatherings to just hang out and chat about life. We have themed parties sometimes too. Join us! For more information, please contact Tiffany Covert at covertjt@yahoo.com.

Youth Coffee w/ Kieran - Saturday, 1:00 pm at Pinewood

A Conversation about Sustainability - Sunday after church

Join us for a conversation around sustainability practices with our very own Sarah VerPloeg.  Sarah will discuss some of her own sustainability practices, and ways that we can better stewards of Creation.  Please bring $5 for lunch.  If you have any questions please email toph@ubcwaco.org.

Giving Update

UBC survives on the generosity of our congregation. Your tithes and offerings allow us to continue to create a space that is welcoming to all, embraces beauty, and seeks to live life to the fullest.

You can give, as you’re able, on Sunday mornings or set up a single or recurring online gift here.

Kids Volunteers

We are so thankful for our UBC Kids Volunteers! And it's that time again - to make a Spring calendar! If you are available to help on Sunday mornings or other times this semester please reach out to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org

Youth Volunteers

Volunteers are a critical part of UBC’s Youth Group - it’s no exaggeration to say that it literally would not run without them. We’re in need of volunteers to engage with the kids, particularly at our Wednesday night meetings, and to make sure everyone is safe. There is also plenty of room to use specific skills or experience you might have - whether that’s leading lessons, running games, or something else entirely! For more information click this link and/or email kieran@ubcwaco.org.

Youth Dinner

If you’d like to get involved with the Youth Group but can’t volunteer on Wednesday nights you can sign-up to provide youth dinner (cooked, bought, or otherwise!) instead. Sign up for that here and Kieran will reach out to you at the beginning of the week you sign up for to arrange details.

UBCYP Gathering - Tuesday, March 21st

Hello all you beautiful young professionals.  We have set the date for our March gathering, and it will be the 21st from 6-8pm.  This time we are headed to Top(h) Golf.  Please plan to join us, and bring $5 to help cover the cost of the bay rental.  We have a sign-up sheet in the foyer at UBC, or you can email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up or have questions.

Backside - Friday, March 24th

Youth Coffee w/ Kieran - Saturday, March 25th

Town Hall - Sunday, March 26th

LGBTQIA+ and Allies Meetup - Tuesday, March 28th

It is time for our monthly gathering for all folks who our LGBTQIA+ and allies.  We would love for you to join us for a night of getting to know one another better, sharing stories, and some delicious food.  We will be gathering at Toph’s Casa, and you can sign-up in the foyer or by emailing toph@ubcwaco.org.

College Hangout - March 30th

Join us for our first college hangout of the semester, as we get to know each other, play some games, and share some food together.  We will be gathering from 7-9pm at Toph’s Casa.  You will be able to sign-up in the foyer throughout March, or you can email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up.

Palm Sunday - Sunday, April 2nd

Picnic in the Park/Easter Egg Hunt - Sunday, April 2nd

Maundy Thursday Potluck - Thursday, April 6th

Good Friday - Friday, April 7th

Easter - Sunday, April 9th

Mister Rogers Sunday - Sunday, April 30th

Nübcers Luncheon - Sunday, May 7th

VBS - Monday, June 19th-Friday, June 23rd

Passport Kids Camp - Sunday, July 22nd-Tuesday, July 25th

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often!

🎉 Parishioner of the Week

The parishioner of the week is Jeff Lewis for providing youth dinner this Wednesday.

📖 Preaching Schedule

3/19: Liz Andrasi Deere
3/26: Kerri Fisher

💭 Share Your Feedback

You’re invited to share your feedback (good, bad, or in-between) about the goings-on at UBC! All comments will be shared directly with the UBC Human Resources team who will then share it with Leadership Team, Finance Team, or Pastoral Staff as needed. Share your feedback here: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Britt Duke (brittrduke@gmail.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)
Marcus Franklin (M_Franklin@baylor.edu)
Shelly Taylor (Shellytaylor76@gmail.com)
Katie Robinson (katiekrobinson@yahoo.com)
Margo Shanks (Margo_Shanks@baylor.edu)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)
Ethan Cohen (ethancohen002@gmail.com)

ITLOTC 3-7-2023

Hello team!

I happened to be reading this passage from Philippians 2:1-4 this week:

1 If then there is any encouragement in Christ, any consolation from love, any sharing in the Spirit, any compassion and sympathy, 2 make my joy complete: be of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. 3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility regard others as better than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others.

I’ve always struggled with this section in Philippians. It’s all too often abused by churches through messages about control, being obedient, going along with what bad leaders say, etc.

Unfortunately, I find that’s often the case with Paul - we’re very good at forgetting that Paul is speaking to a very specific historical context. The Church in his time was very small, and there were so many chances for things to go wrong. Here, Paul’s being encouraging, and he’s trying to put Jesus in the centre.

This whole conversation is framed through a relationship. Paul’s relationship to the church in Philippi is incredibly strong; he loves the community there so much. So when he’s talking about obedience, it’s not about blind obedience to authority, it’s not about obedience as duty or fear - it’s not obedience to humans either. It’s obedience to God, but not in some rule-following, Do This Or Else kind of way - it’s this deep, deep abiding love. These verses have been used by Christians to keep people in abusive relationships, to stay in churches that don’t value them or follow God the way Jesus demonstrates. But that categorically is not what Paul is talking about in this passage.

“Obedience” is a tough word, because it’s been used so harmfully. It might be better to think of it more like allegiance, or fealty, which are both fairly old words, but bear with me. This is a group of people who believe in a shared cause, and believe they owe themselves and each other to follow that cause, especially under the guide of someone they are not just loyal to, but love; and whom is not just another human being, using power to further their own agenda, but a God who sees them, loves them, and wants them to see and love the people around themselves too.

UBC, I love being a part of this community with you. I believe in our shared cause - to love God, embrace beauty, and to live life to the fullest. Know that I am with you in this, always, and that I love you.

Kieran Cressy
Youth Pastor

No Youth Group or 5th & 6th Grade Activities on Wednesday

There will be no Youth Group or 5th & 6th Grade Activities this Wednesday due to Spring Break. Regular Wednesday night activities will resume next week.

Pints w/ Toph - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at Pinewood

Daylight Saving Time Begins on Sunday

Make sure to adjust your clock so you can join us for worship at 10:45am.

Sending the Lands Off to Denver - Sunday at the Arroyo House

Please join us to say goodbye to the Land family as they move to Denver! Bring a beverage and/or snack to share at this come and go event from 2-6pm at the Arroyo House (1703 Sanger Ave). There will also be an optional song circle, and we would love for you to bring an instrument, song, or just your voice to share if you want.

Giving Update

UBC survives on the generosity of our congregation. Your tithes and offerings allow us to continue to create a space that is welcoming to all, embraces beauty, and seeks to live life to the fullest.

You can give, as you’re able, on Sunday mornings or set up a single or recurring online gift here.

Finance Team Nominations

We have a few spots still open on our Finance Team. If you know anyone who would like to serve the church in this way, please send your nominations in.

If you have questions about serving on the Finance Team and want to learn about what is involved, please feel free to read our bylaws or email LeadershipTeam@UBCWaco.org. Nominations can be sent to our email address or to any of our staff members.

Kids Volunteers

We are so thankful for our UBC Kids Volunteers! And it's that time again - to make a Spring calendar! If you are available to help on Sunday mornings or other times this semester please reach out to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org

Youth Volunteers

Volunteers are a critical part of UBC’s Youth Group - it’s no exaggeration to say that it literally would not run without them. We’re in need of volunteers to engage with the kids, particularly at our Wednesday night meetings, and to make sure everyone is safe. There is also plenty of room to use specific skills or experience you might have - whether that’s leading lessons, running games, or something else entirely! For more information click this link and/or email kieran@ubcwaco.org.

Youth Dinner

If you’d like to get involved with the Youth Group but can’t volunteer on Wednesday nights you can sign-up to provide youth dinner (cooked, bought, or otherwise!) instead. Sign up for that here and Kieran will reach out to you at the beginning of the week you sign up for to arrange details.

Youth Coffee w/ Kieran - Saturday, March 18th

A Conversation about Sustainability - Sunday, March 19th

Join us for a conversation around sustainability practices with our very own Sarah VerPloeg.  Sarah will discuss some of her own sustainability practices, and ways that we can better stewards of Creation.  Please bring $5 for lunch.  If you have any questions please email toph@ubcwaco.org.

UBCYP Gathering - Tuesday, March 21st

Hello all you beautiful young professionals.  We have set the date for our March gathering, and it will be the 21st from 6-8pm.  This time we are headed to Top(h) Golf.  Please plan to join us, and bring $5 to help cover the cost of the bay rental.  We have a sign-up sheet in the foyer at UBC, or you can email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up or have questions.

Backside - Friday, March 24th

Town Hall - Sunday, March 26th

LGBTQIA+ and Allies Meetup - Tuesday, March 28th

It is time for our monthly gathering for all folks who our LGBTQIA+ and allies.  We would love for you to join us for a night of getting to know one another better, sharing stories, and some delicious food.  We will be gathering at Toph’s Casa, and you can sign-up in the foyer or by emailing toph@ubcwaco.org.

College Hangout - March 30th

Join us for our first college hangout of the semester, as we get to know each other, play some games, and share some food together.  We will be gathering from 7-9pm at Toph’s Casa.  You will be able to sign-up in the foyer throughout March, or you can email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up.

Palm Sunday - Sunday, April 2nd

Picnic in the Park/Easter Egg Hunt - Sunday, April 2nd

Maundy Thursday Potluck - Thursday, April 6th

Good Friday - Friday, April 7th

Easter - Sunday, April 9th

Passport Kids Camp - Sunday, July 22nd-Tuesday, July 25th

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often!

🎉 Parishioner of the Week

The parishioner of the week is Jon Davis for his help around the building over the last few weeks.

📖 Preaching Schedule

3/12: Bri Childs
3/19: Liz Andrasi Deere
3/26: Kerri Fisher

💭 Share Your Feedback

You’re invited to share your feedback (good, bad, or in-between) about the goings-on at UBC! All comments will be shared directly with the UBC Human Resources team who will then share it with Leadership Team, Finance Team, or Pastoral Staff as needed. Share your feedback here: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Britt Duke (brittrduke@gmail.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)
Marcus Franklin (M_Franklin@baylor.edu)
Shelly Taylor (Shellytaylor76@gmail.com)
Katie Robinson (katiekrobinson@yahoo.com)
Margo Shanks (Margo_Shanks@baylor.edu)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)
Ethan Cohen (ethancohen002@gmail.com)

ITLOTC 2-28-2023

As we are in the season of Lent, I have been thinking about Colossians 1:20, which reminds us Jesus is the one reconciling all things to God, and I love the Message translation of this verse:

“but all the broken and dislocated pieces of the universe—people and things, animals and atoms—get properly fixed and fit together in vibrant harmonies…”. 

In the Ash Wednesday service, Jameson read a passage from Barbara Brown Taylor’s: Truth to Tell, and this section is always the one which causes me to pause the most:

“I remember being at a retreat once where the leader asked us to think of someone who represented Christ in our lives. When it came time to share our answers, one woman stood up and said, “I had to think hard about that one. I kept thinking, who is it that told me the truth about myself so clearly that I wanted to kill him for it?” According to John, Jesus died because he told the truth to everyone he met. He was the truth, a perfect mirror in which people saw themselves in God’s own light.”

This reminded me of another quote I read this past year from the book Subversive Witness by Dominque Dubois Gilliard, in which he references Bryan Stevenson, the executive director of the Equal Justice Initiative:

“I think we all want reconciliation.  We want peace, we want understanding, we want redemption—all these wonderful things.  But we haven’t committed ourselves to truth-telling.  Truth and reconciliation are not simultaneous.  They are sequential.  Tell the truth first, and it’s the truth that motivates you to understand what it will take to recover, repair, endure – to reconcile.”

What are the truth’s I need to tell myself during this season, what do I need Jesus to reveal about my own privilege?...The way I choose to spend and share my resources?... The ways I construct my days for comfort and ease, and/or advocacy and alliance?  Who have I surrounded myself with who will speak truth into my life, and have I given them permission to do so? 

UBC, may we have the courage to invite people to be truth-tellers in our lives, and have the courage and grace and to speak truth into each other’s lives, that we may be people who are formed more and more into the image of the Jesus. 

Toph Whisnant
Community Pastor

Update from the Pastoral Search Committee

Hi UBC! This past month the Pastor Search Committee met to evaluate the first round of candidates for the Lead Pastor role. After reviewing resumes and cover letters we invited a group of applicants to complete the questionnaire discussed at Town Hall on January 8th. We asked the candidates to have their responses in by February 24th, and are excited about the group of candidates and feel very hopeful and excited as we continue in this process.  We will be reviewing their responses over the next two weeks, and will meet again on March 12th to determine who moves forward to the next round of interviews.  Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions, comments, compliments, or concerns. Thank you!

Meet the Newest UBCer

We join Brandon, Megan, and Ashton Glover in celebration and welcome of baby Elliott to the UBC family.

Giving Statements

UBC Giving Statements were distributed by email in early January. If you did not receive yours, please contact Jeff to confirm we have the correct email address on file.

Lent Movie: Pig - Thursday, 7:00 pm at UBC

As we enter the season of Lent, join us for a film that explores life and love and loss and what it means to live and live fully. We'll watch the film and have a conversation about it. Feel free to bring whatever food or beverages you might desire. NOTE: THIS MOVIE IS RATED R PLEASE DON’T BRING YOUR LITTLES.

UBC Family Retreat - Friday-Sunday

Our Waco family retreat is this weekend and will include shared meals, a visit the the zoo, a car scavenger hunt, and some focused kid time/adult time. Our goal with family retreat is for our families to grow together and with each other in relational capacity and to spend time getting to know each other in new and exciting ways! Email Taylor if you have any questions!

Youth Games Afternoon - Saturday, 1:00 pm at UBC

Giving Update

UBC survives on the generosity of our congregation. Your tithes and offerings allow us to continue to create a space that is welcoming to all, embraces beauty, and seeks to live life to the fullest.

You can give, as you’re able, on Sunday mornings or set up a single or recurring online gift here.

Finance Team Nominations

We have a few spots still open on our Finance Team. If you know anyone who would like to serve the church in this way, please send your nominations in.

If you have questions about serving on the Finance Team and want to learn about what is involved, please feel free to read our bylaws or email LeadershipTeam@UBCWaco.org. Nominations can be sent to our email address or to any of our staff members.

Kids Volunteers

We are so thankful for our UBC Kids Volunteers! And it's that time again - to make a Spring calendar! If you are available to help on Sunday mornings or other times this semester please reach out to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org

Youth Volunteers

Volunteers are a critical part of UBC’s Youth Group - it’s no exaggeration to say that it literally would not run without them. We’re in need of volunteers to engage with the kids, particularly at our Wednesday night meetings, and to make sure everyone is safe. There is also plenty of room to use specific skills or experience you might have - whether that’s leading lessons, running games, or something else entirely! For more information click this link and/or email kieran@ubcwaco.org.

Youth Dinner

If you’d like to get involved with the Youth Group but can’t volunteer on Wednesday nights you can sign-up to provide youth dinner (cooked, bought, or otherwise!) instead. Sign up for that here and Kieran will reach out to you at the beginning of the week you sign up for to arrange details.

Sending the Lands Off to Denver - Sunday, March 12th

Please join us to say goodbye to the Land family as they move to Denver! Bring a beverage and/or snack to share at this come and go event from 2-6pm at the Arroyo House (1703 Sanger Ave). There will also be an optional song circle, and we would love for you to bring an instrument, song, or just your voice to share if you want.

Youth Coffee w/ Kieran - Saturday, March 18th

UBCYP Gathering - Tuesday, March 21st

Hello all you beautiful young professionals.  We have set the date for our March gathering, and it will be the 21st from 6-8pm.  This time we are headed to Top(h) Golf.  Please plan to join us, and bring $5 to help cover the cost of the bay rental.  We have a sign-up sheet in the foyer at UBC, or you can email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up or have questions.

Backside - Friday, March 24th

Town Hall - Sunday, March 26th

LGBTQIA+ and Allies Meetup - Tuesday, March 28th

It is time for our monthly gathering for all folks who our LGBTQIA+ and allies.  We would love for you to join us for a night of getting to know one another better, sharing stories, and some delicious food.  We will be gathering at Toph’s Casa, and you can sign-up in the foyer or by emailing toph@ubcwaco.org.

College Hangout - March 30th

Join us for our first college hangout of the semester, as we get to know each other, play some games, and share some food together.  We will be gathering from 7-9pm at Toph’s Casa.  You will be able to sign-up in the foyer throughout March, or you can email toph@ubcwaco.org to sign-up.

Palm Sunday - Sunday, April 2nd

Picnic in the Park/Easter Egg Hunt - Sunday, April 2nd

Maundy Thursday Potluck - Thursday, April 6th

Good Friday - Friday, April 7th

Easter - Sunday, April 9th

Passport Kids Camp - July 22nd-25th

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often!

🎉 Parishioner of the Week

The parishioner of the week is Craig Nash who who subbed in the Bloom Room last week and who provides donuts and makes coffee every week.

📖 Preaching Schedule

3/5: Lilly Ettinger
3/12: Bri Childs
3/19: Liz Andrasi Deere
3/26: Kerri Fisher

💭 Share Your Feedback

You’re invited to share your feedback (good, bad, or in-between) about the goings-on at UBC! All comments will be shared directly with the UBC Human Resources team who will then share it with Leadership Team, Finance Team, or Pastoral Staff as needed. Share your feedback here: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Britt Duke (brittrduke@gmail.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)
Marcus Franklin (M_Franklin@baylor.edu)
Shelly Taylor (Shellytaylor76@gmail.com)
Katie Robinson (katiekrobinson@yahoo.com)
Margo Shanks (Margo_Shanks@baylor.edu)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)
Ethan Cohen (ethancohen002@gmail.com)

ITLOTC 2-21-2023

We begin the season of Lent this week with Ash Wednesday. I often approach this season with almost a sense of relief. After the fullness of the Christmas season and the back to school/work/ordinary rhythms that often coincides with Epiphany, Lent can feel like a needed—and welcome—reset. With its themes of simplicity, quiet, humility and making room, this season is a powerful tonic against a culture that praises complexity, noise, muchness, and more.

This year, though, I find myself coming to Lent asking different questions than I ever have before.

How do we go about making room when we already feel drained, emptied out?

What does it look like to embrace quiet when the people we love and maybe even parts of ourselves are silenced?

Is smallness safe if the suffering and hardship and injustice of this world are so great?

What does it even mean to make room for wholeness, to hold space for healing against all that?

These words, from Greg Pennoyer’s preface to God for Us: Rediscovering the Meaning of Lent and Easter, were especially comforting, instructive, and hopeful to me this morning.

If Advent/Christmas is a revelation of God’s presence with us, then Lent/Easter is a revelation of God’s desire to use all of life for our wholeness and our healing—the revelation that he will pull life from death.

Lent and Easter reveal the God who is for us in all of life—for our liberation, for our healing, for our wholeness. Lent and Easter remind us that even in death there can be found resurrection.

May we draw ever nearer to the God who is for us—for each one of us and for all parts of us.

Brooke Reich
Pastoral Associate

Giving Statements

UBC Giving Statements were distributed in early January. If you did not receive yours, please contact Jeff to confirm we have the correct email address on file.

Cesar Chavez Family in Need

We have a family in the neighborhood who just moved into a new house, but is needing furniture.  They are in need of a sofa, kitchen table/chairs, and a dresser.  If you can help, please contact toph@ubcwaco.org. We would like items that are in good condition, or new.  Thank you so much for your generosity.

Finance Team Nominations

We have a few spots still open on our Finance Team. If you know anyone who would like to serve the church in this way, please send your nominations in.

If you have questions about serving on the Finance Team and want to learn about what is involved, please feel free to read our bylaws or email LeadershipTeam@UBCWaco.org. Nominations can be sent to our email address or to any of our staff members.

Giving Update

UBC survives on the generosity of our congregation. Your tithes and offerings allow us to continue to create a space that is welcoming to all, embraces beauty, and seeks to live life to the fullest.

You can give, as you’re able, on Sunday mornings or set up a single or recurring online gift here.

Kids Volunteers

We are so thankful for our UBC Kids Volunteers! And it's that time again - to make a Spring calendar! If you are available to help on Sunday mornings or other times this semester please reach out to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org

Youth Volunteers

Volunteers are a critical part of UBC’s Youth Group - it’s no exaggeration to say that it literally would not run without them. We’re in need of volunteers to engage with the kids, particularly at our Wednesday night meetings, and to make sure everyone is safe. There is also plenty of room to use specific skills or experience you might have - whether that’s leading lessons, running games, or something else entirely! For more information click this link and/or email kieran@ubcwaco.org.

Youth Dinner

If you’d like to get involved with the Youth Group but can’t volunteer on Wednesday nights you can sign-up to provide youth dinner (cooked, bought, or otherwise!) instead. Sign up for that here and Kieran will reach out to you at the beginning of the week you sign up for to arrange details.

Lent Movie: Pig - Thursday, March 2nd

As we enter the season of Lent, join us for a film that explores life and love and loss and what it means to live and live fully. We'll watch the film and have a conversation about it. Feel free to bring whatever food or beverages you might desire. NOTE: THIS MOVIE IS RATED R PLEASE DON’T BRING YOUR LITTLES.

UBC Family Retreat - Friday, March 3rd-Sunday, March 5th

Family retreat will take place in Waco this year and will include shared meals, a visit the the zoo, a car scavenger hunt, and kid time/adult time. The goal of our family retreat is for our families to grow together and with each other in relational capacity and to spend time getting to know each other in new and exciting ways! Email Taylor if you have any questions!

Youth Games Afternoon - Saturday, March 4th

Backside - Friday, March 24th

Palm Sunday - Sunday, April 2nd

Picnic in the Park/Easter Egg Hunt - Sunday, April 2nd

Maundy Thursday Potluck - Thursday, April 6th

Good Friday - Friday, April 7th

Easter - Sunday, April 9th

Passport Kids Camp - July 22nd-25th

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often!

🎉 Parishioner of the Week

The parishioner of the week is Cordell Hammon who successfully defended his dissertation last week.

📖 Preaching Schedule

2/26: Kerri Fisher
3/5: Lilly Ettinger
3/12: Bri Childs
3/19: Liz Andrasi Deere
3/26: Kerri Fisher

💭 Share Your Feedback

You’re invited to share your feedback (good, bad, or in-between) about the goings-on at UBC! All comments will be shared directly with the UBC Human Resources team who will then share it with Leadership Team, Finance Team, or Pastoral Staff as needed. Share your feedback here: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Britt Duke (brittrduke@gmail.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)
Marcus Franklin (M_Franklin@baylor.edu)
Shelly Taylor (Shellytaylor76@gmail.com)
Katie Robinson (katiekrobinson@yahoo.com)
Margo Shanks (Margo_Shanks@baylor.edu)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)
Ethan Cohen (ethancohen002@gmail.com)

ITLOTC 2-14-2023

Over the course of the last year as we, UBC, have been moving together through the process of finding a new Lead Pastor, I have been so thankful for every single person that has stepped into our pulpit on a Sunday morning and offered us a word from the Lord. We’ve heard from people from all over the country and I have felt incredibly honored by the gifts that so many of them have given us. It has been such a kindness.

This past Sunday we were gifted a beautiful sermon from one of our former community members who has moved on and served in several different communities in Texas – Christopher Mack. A sermon about – well I would say many things, as all the good ones are – but particularly, as he spoke, he included a list of questions (adapted from a list made by the episcopalian church).

Titled “Becoming Beloved Community Where You Are” these questions did the hard but important work of challenging while also being incredibly kind. And if you were here with us on Sunday I hope you’ve continued to think about them and if you weren’t here they are – so maybe you can begin thinking through them!

Truth Telling on Church and Race: 

  • What racial/cultural/ethnic groups are part of ubc Waco? 

  • Are there 'default settings'? or 'assumptions about church' that make ubc comfortable, but confuse or exclude others? 

  • How much cultural interpretation work is required from groups not well-represented here?

Participating in Beloved Community: 

  • How has Waco participated in racial injustice and racial healing over time? 

  • What is Waco’s dream for Beloved Community? How is ubc fostering it? Where do we feel stuck?

Repairing the Breach in Society and its Systems:

  • What institutions and systems bear the scars of (or are greased by) racial injustice? 

  • How will we participate in the repair, restoration and healing of people, institutions and systems?

The Way of Radical Love:

  • How are we growing as reconcilers, repairers, healers, justice-workers, and peace-makers? 

  • What activities, practices, learning, and experiences would transform us? 

  • How might we listen to stories that stretch our understanding and expand our world?

Reality Check:

  • Do we need to be the hero, the one who ‘gets it’?

  • When our good intentions do not have the good impact we hope, what will be our response? 

  • When our country takes 2 steps forward then 3 steps back, and marginalized communities are hurting, traumatized, and anxious… will we use our privilege to opt out because of the fatigue? If not, then how are we working to strengthen our ability to persevere for the long haul?

The sermon is a great context obviously, and you can watch it on our Facebook page. But I think the questions stand on their own. I think it’s an important list of questions for us, as a community UBC, to have some answers. And I’m thankful to Christopher for giving them to us.

“The goal of Beloved Community is centering our collective communal lives around the Hope, Beauty, Goodness, Justice, Truth, Forgiveness, Healing, and Transformation of Christ.” Is something CMac said. What a gift to us, UBC. Let’s honor it well.

Taylor Post
Children and Families Pastor

Cesar Chavez Family in Need

We have a family in the neighborhood who just moved into a new house, but is needing furniture.  They are in need of a sofa, kitchen table/chairs, and a dresser.  If you can help, please contact toph@ubcwaco.org. We would like items that are in good condition, or new.  Thank you so much for your generosity.

Finance Team Nominations

We have a few spots still open on our Finance Team. If you know anyone who would like to serve the church in this way, please send your nominations in.

If you have questions about serving on the Finance Team and want to learn about what is involved, please feel free to read our bylaws or email LeadershipTeam@UBCWaco.org. Nominations can be sent to our email address or to any of our staff members.

Giving Update

UBC survives on the generosity of our congregation. Your tithes and offerings allow us to continue to create a space that is welcoming to all, embraces beauty, and seeks to live life to the fullest.

You can give, as you’re able, on Sunday mornings or set up a single or recurring online gift here.

Kids Volunteers

We are so thankful for our UBC Kids Volunteers! And it's that time again - to make a Spring calendar! If you are available to help on Sunday mornings or other times this semester please reach out to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org

Youth Volunteers

Volunteers are a critical part of UBC’s Youth Group - it’s no exaggeration to say that it literally would not run without them. We’re in need of volunteers to engage with the kids, particularly at our Wednesday night meetings, and to make sure everyone is safe. There is also plenty of room to use specific skills or experience you might have - whether that’s leading lessons, running games, or something else entirely! For more information click this link and/or email kieran@ubcwaco.org.

Youth Dinner

If you’d like to get involved with the Youth Group but can’t volunteer on Wednesday nights you can sign-up to provide youth dinner (cooked, bought, or otherwise!) instead. Sign up for that here and Kieran will reach out to you at the beginning of the week you sign up for to arrange details.

Ash Wednesday - Wednesday, February 22nd

Youth Coffee w/ Kieran - Saturday, February 25th

Lent Movie: Pig - Thursday, March 2nd

Note: this event is intended for adult audiences, as Pig contains mature language and situations. Contact jamie@ubcwaco.org for more info.

UBC Family Retreat - Friday, March 3rd-Monday, March 6th

Passport Kids Camp - July 22nd-25th

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often!

🎉 Parishioner of the Week

The parishioners of the week are Carolina & Betsy for their help cleaning up following the Love Love Feast.

📖 Preaching Schedule

2/19: Kirk
2/26: Kerri Fisher
3/5: Lilly Ettinger
3/12: Bri Childs
3/19: Liz Andrasi Deere
3/26: Kerri Fisher

💭 Share Your Feedback

You’re invited to share your feedback (good, bad, or in-between) about the goings-on at UBC! All comments will be shared directly with the UBC Human Resources team who will then share it with Leadership Team, Finance Team, or Pastoral Staff as needed. Share your feedback here: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Britt Duke (brittrduke@gmail.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)
Marcus Franklin (M_Franklin@baylor.edu)
Shelly Taylor (Shellytaylor76@gmail.com)
Katie Robinson (katiekrobinson@yahoo.com)
Margo Shanks (Margo_Shanks@baylor.edu)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)
Ethan Cohen (ethancohen002@gmail.com)

ITLOTC 2-7-2023

Greetings.

Year after year we have the gift of Epiphany overlapping with Black History Month. For a predominantly white congregation like ours, therein lies an invitation to dial up the voices of Black folks, to meet them with the holy curiosity of Epiphany, and to allow them to shape how we think about who God is.

To that end, I want to put Howard Thurman in your path. His book Jesus and the Disinherited radically reshaped how I thought about Jesus. This book was the inspiration for the song we sing sometimes called “Where God Has Always Been,” and it also happens to be relatively short, if you’re looking for something accessible to read this month.

If found this short video that offers an intro to Thurman’s life and legacy, and I hope you’ll take 8 minutes to watch it: https://youtu.be/mdjLfORZ7Jo

-Jamie

Exploring Gender Identities Series at Lakeshore Baptist Church

Youth - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

5th & 6th Graders - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at UBC

Pints w/ Toph - Wednesday, 6:00 pm at Pinewood

Youth Coffee w/ Kieran - Saturday, 1pm at Pinewood

UBC Women’s Group Galentine's Day - Saturday, 10 am at Milo

Please let Noel or Tiffany know if you plan to attend.

The UBC Women’s Group is for those women who are out of college who want to join a group to connect with other women. Most of our members are in their 30s and 40s, but any woman past college-age is welcome! We plan monthly gatherings to just hang out and chat about life. We have themed parties sometimes too. Join us! For more information, please contact Tiffany Covert at covertjt@yahoo.com.

Limits and Parenting with Wade Mackey - Sunday, 4:00 pm at UBC

Childcare will be provided.

Love Lovefeast - Sunday, 5:30 pm at UBC

Cesar Chavez Family in Need

We have a family in the neighborhood who just moved into a new house, but is needing furniture.  They are in need of a sofa, kitchen table/chairs, and a dresser.  If you can help, please contact toph@ubcwaco.org. We would like items that are in good condition, or new.  Thank you so much for your generosity.

Finance Team Nominations

We have a few spots still open on our Finance Team. If you know anyone who would like to serve the church in this way, please send your nominations in.

If you have questions about serving on the Finance Team and want to learn about what is involved, please feel free to read our bylaws or email LeadershipTeam@UBCWaco.org. Nominations can be sent to our email address or to any of our staff members.

Giving Update

UBC survives on the generosity of our congregation. Your tithes and offerings allow us to continue to create a space that is welcoming to all, embraces beauty, and seeks to live life to the fullest.

You can set up a single or recurring online gift here.

Kids Volunteers

We are so thankful for our UBC Kids Volunteers! And it's that time again - to make a Spring calendar! If you are available to help on Sunday mornings or other times this semester please reach out to Taylor at taylor@ubcwaco.org

Youth Volunteers

Volunteers are a critical part of UBC’s Youth Group - it’s no exaggeration to say that it literally would not run without them. We’re in need of volunteers to engage with the kids, particularly at our Wednesday night meetings, and to make sure everyone is safe. There is also plenty of room to use specific skills or experience you might have - whether that’s leading lessons, running games, or something else entirely! For more information click this link and/or email kieran@ubcwaco.org.

Youth Dinner

If you’d like to get involved with the Youth Group but can’t volunteer on Wednesday nights you can sign-up to provide youth dinner (cooked, bought, or otherwise!) instead. Sign up for that here and Kieran will reach out to you at the beginning of the week you sign up for to arrange details.

Youth Games Afternoon - Saturday, February 18th

Ash Wednesday - Wednesday, February 22nd

Lent Movie: Pig - Thursday, March 2nd

UBC Family Retreat - Friday, March 3rd-Monday, March 6th

Passport Summer Camps

  • Youth Camp - June 11th-15th

  • Kids Camp - July 22nd-25th

Find more details and our full calendar of events on our website. This calendar is updated frequently, so check back often!

🎉 Parishioner of the Week

The parishioners of the week are Noel and Trevor Carlson, for providing meal for Wednesday Night youth.

📖 Preaching Schedule

2/12: Christopher Mack
2/19: Kirk
2/26: Kerri Fisher
3/5: Lilly Ettinger
3/12: Bri Childs
3/19: Liz Andrasi Deere
3/26: Kerri Fisher

💭 Share Your Feedback

You’re invited to share your feedback (good, bad, or in-between) about the goings-on at UBC! All comments will be shared directly with the UBC Human Resources team who will then share it with Leadership Team, Finance Team, or Pastoral Staff as needed. Share your feedback here: https://forms.gle/1ovkBXSx1Lu3CR448

Leadership Team

Ben Raley (benjaminraley@gmail.com)
Britt Duke (brittrduke@gmail.com)
Katie Valenzuela (katarinaevalenzuela@gmail.com)
Andy Clark (andyclarkmusic@gmail.com)
Aleigh Ascherl (aleighascherl@gmail.com)
Marcus Franklin (M_Franklin@baylor.edu)
Shelly Taylor (Shellytaylor76@gmail.com)
Katie Robinson (katiekrobinson@yahoo.com)
Margo Shanks (Margo_Shanks@baylor.edu)

HR Team

Erin Hill (erin.albin1@gmail.com)
Patrick Broaddus (patrickjbroaddus@gmail.com)
Craig Nash (craig_nash@baylor.edu)
Kristen Howerton (khowerton94@gmail.com)
Abbey Mackey (abbeyadizdar@gmail.com)
Jess Smith (jess_smith1@baylor.edu)

Finance Team

Colton Towns (cctowns@gmail.com)
Julie Sievers (juliehsievers@gmail.com)
Evan Kidd (evan.kidd1@outlook.com)
Ethan Cohen (ethancohen002@gmail.com)