wfn.org | UCC gathering ?Changing Lives? testimonies at Synod

[Worldwide Faith News <wfn@igc.org>]

UCC gathering 'Changing Lives' testimonies at Synod

> June 27, 2009

Mary Beth Hartenstein and Debra Joseph bring dissimilar stories to
General Synod 27.  Both participated yesterday in a videotaping in
DeVos Place to promote the "Changing Lives" campaign, part of the Our
Church's Wider Mission. Both are clearly tuned into the Stillspeaking God.

"There are no words to describe my transformation as a UCC member,"
said Hartenstein, a pastor at St. Paul UCC in Waterloo, Ill. "It's
still evolving." Hartenstein, a graduate of Lancaster Theological
Seminary, spoke passionately about serving her congregation. "I'm with
families during times of joy and times of challenge. I don't have all
the answers, but I'm better prepared because of all that the UCC has given me."

Joseph, a member of Beecher Congregational UCC in New Orleans, spoke
softly but strongly about her faith in the aftermath of Hurricane
Katrina. "It's better when I let God take charge," she said with a
gentle nod of the head. "If you don't let God in during times of
confusion, nothing makes sense."

How has the UCC changed your life? Please contact Connie Larkman at
216-773-9222