General Synod 2011 & UCC Coalition for LGBT Concerns National Gathering

Our congregation was well represented at the General Synod (Imagine What is Possible) this year held in Tampa, Florida. Attending from FCC were Rich Fluechtling, Susan Shands and Eldonna Hazen. Each played a different, but important role. The Synod dealt with the business of the UCC and offered educational workshops and speakers. Some of the speakers/groups included Leonard Pitts Jr., Nuttin’ But Stringz, Marcia McFee, Roy Jaurez, Jr., Tony Robinson and Michael Piazza. One of the wonderful experiences of General Synod is worship. Again the times of worship were filled with creativity, beauty, multiple sense experiences and the Spirit. 
There are a few key business items of interest we have listed below, however there are many others that we would encourage you to review via the website at www.ucc.org. 
*Unified Governance – The Synod adopted revisions to the constitution and bylaws to create a single governing board of 52 persons. This will replace the current structure of 5 separate and independent boards with a total of over 250 individuals. This change will provide a more efficient and coordinated governing system for the future.  It is expected to take effect after General Synod in 2013 following ratification by 2/3 of the conferences next year.
*Frequency of General Synod – A proposal to change holding General Synod every two years to every three or four years was brought forward. There was significant discussion in the committee and in plenary about the continuing cost increases of this meeting, the sense of community it creates and the experience of seeing and living the great diversity of the UCC. The proposal was defeated. This issue has been raised before and discussions will continue about the best uses of financial resources.
*Human rights and political asylum for LGBT persons – A resolution was adopted to support human rights for LGBT individuals around the world. Another called for improved accessibility for political asylum for LGBT persons escaping from countries where their safety and even their lives are at great risk. More information available at www.lgbtasylum.org.
*Putting Our Money Where Our Values Are – A resolution that passed overwhelmingly to encourage all settings of the UCC to review their business practices with financial institutions to evaluate whether they reflect the values of the congregation, association, etc.
 
UCC Coalition for LGBT Concerns National Gathering
 
The National Gathering was held June 27-30 with the theme ImaginACTion.  It was a time to look forward to a future so much changed from its 39 year history. Now is a time when the Open and Affirming movement has passed 950 ONA congregations and is quite fully integrated in the national setting of the UCC. Presenters spoke of the hard work and success, and raised issues to live into the future which included keeping the momentum of the ONA going, greater connection with racial/ethnic communities, more involvement of youth and young adults, and addressing the needs of aging LGBT persons as they move into retirement.
The annual business meeting received reports of challenges of the staff transitions and diminished financial resources. A total new Leadership Team was elected to re-energize The Coalition. Rich Fluechtling completed serving for 11 years as treasurer and accountant.
 
Rich Fluechtling & Eldonna Hazen