wfn.org | UCC General Synod youth steward proud to be UCC

[George Conklin <gconklin@wfn.org>]

United Church of Christ
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contact: Barbara Powell
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PROVIDENCE, RI - July 6 1999 -
Youth Steward �Proud to be UCC�
by Pam Smith
        Katelyn Macrae, from First Parish Congregational UCC in Saco, Maine,
temporarily left her position as a Youth Steward Monday  morning to applaud the
General Synod �for encouraging the involvement of young people in the church.�
A member of her congregation�s Diaconate, Youth Group and Retreat Planning
Committee, she says she had no idea the national church had such interest in
and influence on important social issues. 
        �I knew what ONA was and that the UCC has historically opened its doors
for all,� she said. �Yet as a youth, I was unsure of my place in the local
church. General Synod 22 has opened my eyes.�
        When Jonathan Kozol pointed out that it is no longer �cool to be
liberal,� Macrae was struck anew with pride for �how involved the UCC is in the
life of local people and in trying to help them.�
        In spite of a hectic schedule of �plenary, lunch, plenary, dinner,
plenary, and then I�m going to the dance,� Macrae found time to go to
Beneficent UCC early this morning and participate in the vigil preceding the
dedication of a bell of freedom in Abbott Park.
        Macrae says she�s �proud to call the UCC home,� and hopes the church
continues to encourage youth involvement in the national and local settings. 
She encourages local nominating committees to �follow the national example and
consider people under twentyone.� 
        Although she knows the denominational goal of 20 percent youth
representation on all committees may not be realistic for all local
congregations, Macrae urges them, �At least try!� 
        Macrae�s advice for delegates? �Take what you�ve learned here at
General
Synod back to your own church!�