 Ministry Highlights for may 2024 Last Sunday It may have been a three-day weekend, but Plymouth showed up to worship together on May 26th.  Pentecost Sunday On May 19th, the children's chorus "Kids Will Sing!" was part of our Pentecost service and at Fellowship Hour we had our first "Fellowship That Transforms" gathering. (More will follow at intervals over the summer.) A pray ground at the front of the sanctuary provided space for kids to worship in their own way. Sunday Celebrations In May there were two special coffee hour celebrations: on May 12th we celebrated Joyce Sjogren's 98th birthday and on May 26th, Tricia and Jim Medlock's 50th wedding anniversary. Confirmation On April 28, six youth were confirmed. The Kids Will Sing! group participated in the service.   "Resurrection in a Time of Climate Change" The Climate Action Team spring series is in progress! Here are some images from events that have already taken place. There's still more to come, through 5/12. Visit plymouthucc.org/climate to learn more and register for the film on 5/4. First photo is Doug Fox at the Forum on 4/14. The collage on the right comes from our Plymouth Online Connection Facebook group, where you don't have to wait until the end of the month to see great photos and videos of what is going on at church! Roof Repair Scheduled to finish at the end of this week. The first photo is day one. The second photo is from yesterday (4/22): They’re tearing off the existing roofing system layers of the north half of the roof over the Fellowship Hall. Memorial Services Plymouth has had several memorial services already and another (Joyce DeVaney) happening this week. Remember, you can attend online (also later via recording) on our Memorial Service web page.   Ministry Highlights for March 2024 Lent Resurrection Gardens We started March with a service with four speakers from different generations, plus a cross-generational project between services.  St. Patrick's Day The service was focused on Celtic Christianity and kids made Celtic knots.  Palm Sunday Palm Sunday was a festive occasion, with palm waving, Kids Will Sing!, and a message from the book, Together We Rise: An Easter Story for All of Us, by Paul Raushenbush, illustrated by Jin Xia.  Easter Sunday Easter was celebrated with joyful worship, as well as an egg hunt and traditional cinnamon rolls. Cascarones eggs (filled with confetti) are special blessings and good luck on Easter Sunday. This year our own Pastor Hal received the blessing as he turns the corner of retirement. Many more pictures on our Gallery page.   Fellowship of the Grape The February FOG group enjoyed a lovely spread of food along with the expected wine. The next meeting is 4/26.   Ministry Highlights for Feb. 2024 Lent Starts The traditional soup supper and service on Ash Wednesday (2/14/24) started Lent this year. (More Ash Wed. photos in Gallery.) On most Sundays in Lent, folks in grade 4 and up have gathered between Sunday Services to Pray with Colors, using our Lenten Devotional linking the art of Henri Matisse to Lenten themes. Feb. 18 was green and Feb. 25 was blue. This Sunday we take a break for Resurrection Gardens (look for info in your Overview Thursday!) and return to Praying With Colors on March 10.  Youth Visit Estes Our youth group had an outing to Estes Park with the youth of First Cong. Greeley.  Marta Speaks at FC Council Meeting on Israel/Hamas War Rev. Marta was #54 out of 169 speakers at the Fort Collins City Council Meeting on 2/20 at which the council considered a ceasefire resolution. The previous Sunday, youth made hearts for Plymouth members to wear at the meeting.  Plymouth Celebrates Verley Boulton's 90th Birthday There were candles and cake on Sunday, February 11 between services as our community celebrated Verley!  ISAAC Love in Action Fundraiser Plymouth folks attended the Interfaith Solidarity and Accompaniment Coalition event featuring internationally-known speaker Father Greg Boyle, author and Hilton Humanitarian Prize recipient, with a message of radical kinship, exquisite mutuality and infectious hope.  Annual Meeting 2/4/24 Festive worship at 10 a.m., followed by a potluck and the annual meeting. More photos in Gallery. Did you miss the Annual Ministry Highlights presentation? View it here.   View flip book on web page below,
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Ministry Highlights for January 2024
Our first ever Youth for Change was a huge success.
We had over 160 people in attendance, including representation from six faith communities and 13 different groups working against housing injustice.
We are so grateful and proud — Plymouth showed up!
We had over 160 people in attendance, including representation from six faith communities and 13 different groups working against housing injustice.
We are so grateful and proud — Plymouth showed up!
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1/21 at Prost Brewing, Plymouth Social club = Gen X, Millennials and older Zs. Quite the range but super fun!
Our cross-generational Epiphany service on 1/7 included a pray-ground with "aha" stars.
The Colorado Bach Ensemble performed on the afternoon of 1/21, preceded by a lecture.
Do you have a ministry highlight to share?
Be part of the 4th Tuesday email. Visit plymouthucc.org/shine
Be part of the 4th Tuesday email. Visit plymouthucc.org/shine
Ministry Highlights for December 2023
Christmas Eve Services
We had over 500 worshipers on Christmas Eve at three services: 11 a.m. and 5 & 7 p.m. (More pictures on the Gallery page.)
We had over 500 worshipers on Christmas Eve at three services: 11 a.m. and 5 & 7 p.m. (More pictures on the Gallery page.)
Longest Night Service
The annual Longest Night Service took place on December 17th this year.
The annual Longest Night Service took place on December 17th this year.
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Advent Services featured lighting of candles in the Advent Wreath, as well as the traditional dolls representing prophets and the Nativity scene.
About 40 people of all ages enjoyed making Advent crafts and eating pizza at the annual Advent Craft Night on 12/9.
The Sunday forum and book group combined in December to read What Does God Think? Transgender People and The Bible, led by Plymouth's own Kris Campbell. (Photo from 11/26 intro forum.)
At the Get-A-Grip Christmas Party on 12/10, 22 people enjoyed a potluck supper and a gift exchange.
Do you have a ministry highlight to share? Be part of the 4th Tuesday email.
Visit plymouthucc.org/shine
Visit plymouthucc.org/shine
Ministry Highlight for November 2023
Marta's Installation
We installed Marta as our associate minister on Sunday, November 12, with a festive service and reception!
We installed Marta as our associate minister on Sunday, November 12, with a festive service and reception!
The Missions Marketplace
On November 4 and 5, more than a dozen groups and organizations representing families and communities from Northern Colorado and around the world gathered at Plymouth to share their stories and offer opportunities for you to support their life-sustaining work. More pictures in web Gallery.
On November 4 and 5, more than a dozen groups and organizations representing families and communities from Northern Colorado and around the world gathered at Plymouth to share their stories and offer opportunities for you to support their life-sustaining work. More pictures in web Gallery.
Plymouth Music Series: NOCO Singers
On November 10, the NOCO Singers entertained folks from Plymouth and the larger community. Look for more Music Series events to come.
On November 10, the NOCO Singers entertained folks from Plymouth and the larger community. Look for more Music Series events to come.
Barb Gregory's Retirement Dinner
On November 9, members and friends gathered for a dinner to honor Barb's 15 years of service.
On November 9, members and friends gathered for a dinner to honor Barb's 15 years of service.
In preparation for Christmas Eve, a handbell polishing party ensued on Wednesday, November 15. Food, beverages, and good fellowship were most definitely included.
We can't share pictures with you, but did you know about Plymouth's Calling and Caring Ministries?
- CONGREGATIONAL VISITORS help those who can't always make it to services to stay in touch with Plymouth. We want everyone to have the opportunity to stay connected.
- FAITH COMMUNITY NURSES help anyone who is going through a health challenge. FCNs do not provide hands-on care but can help you negotiate and interpret medical language, help find resources, provide education about an illness and treatments, or explore with you concerns about decisions regarding your health and interactions with our health care system.
- STEPHEN MINISTERS are a group of volunteers who have received significant training in basic helping skills and communication. They are skilled listening companions who journey alongside those struggling with life challenges, from job loss, trouble coping with family dynamics, loss of a friend or loved one, adapting to a change in health status, and more.
Do you have a ministry highlight to share? Be part of the 4th Tuesday email.
Visit plymouthucc.org/shine
Visit plymouthucc.org/shine
Ministry Highlights for Oct. 2023
Consecration Sunday
This past Sunday was Consecration Sunday, when pledges were turned in. We celebrated with a breakfast and raffle between services. Kids Will Sing! sang at both services.
This past Sunday was Consecration Sunday, when pledges were turned in. We celebrated with a breakfast and raffle between services. Kids Will Sing! sang at both services.
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Youth Retreat at LaForet. At the Rocky Mountain Conference Fall Youth Retreat last weekend, youth spent time with UCC friends from all over Colorado learning about the cosmos, the Divine, and our place within them.
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Music Ministry Potluck
To celebrate the beginning of a new program year, a Music Ministry Potluck was held on Friday, 9/29 at the home of Anne and Bill Thompson. About 20 ringers & singers gathered for a few hours of good food, good drink, and good company.
To celebrate the beginning of a new program year, a Music Ministry Potluck was held on Friday, 9/29 at the home of Anne and Bill Thompson. About 20 ringers & singers gathered for a few hours of good food, good drink, and good company.
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Blessing of the Animals 10/8
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The cookie table at the Diana Butler Bass event, 10/1.
A beautiful and delicious offering. Thanks to all who contributed.
A beautiful and delicious offering. Thanks to all who contributed.
The Plymouth Talent Showcase on 10/15. We made a joyful noise! (Lots more pictures in the website gallery.)
More moments from the past month...
Laura Nelson -- and therapy dogs Ollie & Anni -- led a Blessing of the Land and Animals in Sunday School.
Laura Nelson -- and therapy dogs Ollie & Anni -- led a Blessing of the Land and Animals in Sunday School.
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Do you have a ministry highlight to share?
Be part of the 4th Tuesday email. Visit plymouthucc.org/shine
Be part of the 4th Tuesday email. Visit plymouthucc.org/shine
Ministry Highlights for Sept. 2023
Gun Violence Prevention Weekend
Plymouth hosted a weekend of experiential education and witness to be one part of the puzzle in ending gun violence. Friday night was a community gathering for all ages, featuring a panel including Mike Martin of RAWtools, a blacksmith demonstration of gun dismantling, a labyrinth walk in solidarity with survivors and victims, and ice cream sundaes. Saturday morning was a gun buyback. Photos by Marilu Theodore were then displayed in the gallery space at Plymouth, and can also be seen on our website gallery.
Plymouth hosted a weekend of experiential education and witness to be one part of the puzzle in ending gun violence. Friday night was a community gathering for all ages, featuring a panel including Mike Martin of RAWtools, a blacksmith demonstration of gun dismantling, a labyrinth walk in solidarity with survivors and victims, and ice cream sundaes. Saturday morning was a gun buyback. Photos by Marilu Theodore were then displayed in the gallery space at Plymouth, and can also be seen on our website gallery.
CAM Takes Action
The Climate Action ministry team collected hard-to-recycle items and delivered them to FoCo Trash Mob. They will continue to collect the following items at the Eco Station in Fellowship Hall and transport them to CHaRM in Boulder each month or so:
The Climate Action ministry team collected hard-to-recycle items and delivered them to FoCo Trash Mob. They will continue to collect the following items at the Eco Station in Fellowship Hall and transport them to CHaRM in Boulder each month or so:
- plastic clamshells (grocery stores package fresh berries in these)
- amber-colored prescription pill containers
- single-use contact blisters (for contact lenses)
- styrofoam
Jubilee Sunday Involvement Fair
Boards tabled Fellowship Hall with information... and entertainment (as Congregational Life demonstrates) to explain what they do and invite participation. Missed it? Find contact info here. Not sure what ministry would be the best fit for you? Take a 3-min survey here.
Boards tabled Fellowship Hall with information... and entertainment (as Congregational Life demonstrates) to explain what they do and invite participation. Missed it? Find contact info here. Not sure what ministry would be the best fit for you? Take a 3-min survey here.
More moments from the past month...
- Kids Will Sing made their debut at worship on Jubilee Sunday.
- Rev. Marta spoke at the Poudre School District Board meeting in support of trans students.
- This note came from one of the Faith Family Hospitality families (written on the white board where they were staying).
Do you have a ministry highlight to share?
Be part of the 4th Tuesday email. Visit plymouthucc.org/shine
Be part of the 4th Tuesday email. Visit plymouthucc.org/shine
August 2023
Potluck at Rolland Moore Park
Our second try at the outdoor worship and potluck was wonderful!
Our second try at the outdoor worship and potluck was wonderful!
A "band cam" moment from the outdoor worship service.
More clips in our website gallery (button at bottom).
More clips in our website gallery (button at bottom).
Welcome Event for International & Housing Insecure CSU Students
Marty Marsh writes: The morning was an inspiration, and I'm proud to be a member of Plymouth. So much work goes into this event, and it is wonderful to be in the Fellowship Hall and see how excited students are to be getting all of these items to "make a home" here at CSU. We are doing great work. Lots more photos in Gallery.
Marty Marsh writes: The morning was an inspiration, and I'm proud to be a member of Plymouth. So much work goes into this event, and it is wonderful to be in the Fellowship Hall and see how excited students are to be getting all of these items to "make a home" here at CSU. We are doing great work. Lots more photos in Gallery.
Interfaith Council
Plymouth was well represented at the August meeting of the Fort Collins Interfaith Council where the main program was on the prevention of gun violence, specifically the safe storage of firearms. If you are interested in the FCIC, please sign up for their newsletter at fortcollinsinterfaith.org.
Plymouth was well represented at the August meeting of the Fort Collins Interfaith Council where the main program was on the prevention of gun violence, specifically the safe storage of firearms. If you are interested in the FCIC, please sign up for their newsletter at fortcollinsinterfaith.org.
More moments from the past month...
Marta & Brooklyn at Laughing Buck Farm (belongs to members Rosemary & Greg), youth at the movies, summer choir, kids in the nursery.
Marta & Brooklyn at Laughing Buck Farm (belongs to members Rosemary & Greg), youth at the movies, summer choir, kids in the nursery.
Do you have a ministry highlight to share?
Be part of the 4th Tuesday email. Visit plymouthucc.org/shine
Be part of the 4th Tuesday email. Visit plymouthucc.org/shine
Ministry Highlights
July 203
Pride Booth
Bearing witness to our deepest values and having a ton of fun at NoCo’s 2023 Pride Fest! More pictures on our Gallery Page. Do you recognize Plymouth's favorite flute player? (Hint)
Bearing witness to our deepest values and having a ton of fun at NoCo’s 2023 Pride Fest! More pictures on our Gallery Page. Do you recognize Plymouth's favorite flute player? (Hint)
Youth Pilgrimage
Brooklyn McBride (Dir. of Christian Formation for Children & Youth) and 18 youth and 4 other adults from Plymouth and First Congregational in Greeley spent most of a week on pilgrimage in Crestone, CO and Santa Fe, NM. Read all about it in her post.
Brooklyn McBride (Dir. of Christian Formation for Children & Youth) and 18 youth and 4 other adults from Plymouth and First Congregational in Greeley spent most of a week on pilgrimage in Crestone, CO and Santa Fe, NM. Read all about it in her post.
Summer Choir
The first Summer Choir anthem was offered on July 9. Watch this brief clip (link to full version at end of clip) to hear them. There are two more opportunities on 7/30 and 8/20.
The first Summer Choir anthem was offered on July 9. Watch this brief clip (link to full version at end of clip) to hear them. There are two more opportunities on 7/30 and 8/20.
Plymouth Gives Day
Can you believe it? Our Plymouth Gives Day total is $77,827. Of the 147 individuals and families who gave, 16% are from the broader group of supporters beyond our regular pledgers.
Can you believe it? Our Plymouth Gives Day total is $77,827. Of the 147 individuals and families who gave, 16% are from the broader group of supporters beyond our regular pledgers.
Do you have a ministry highlight to share?
Be part of the 4th Tuesday email.
Visit plymouthucc.org/shine
Be part of the 4th Tuesday email.
Visit plymouthucc.org/shine
Ministry Highlights
June 2023
Pride Month
Our Pride Photo booth was the place to be in June. So many wonderful pictures! See them all at the website gallery.
Our Pride Photo booth was the place to be in June. So many wonderful pictures! See them all at the website gallery.
Indoor "Outdoor" Worship & Potluck
Rain sent the June 4 service & potluck inside, but there was no shortage of fellowship and good food! Blessings all around! (The outdoor worship service has been rescheduled for August 13.)
Rain sent the June 4 service & potluck inside, but there was no shortage of fellowship and good food! Blessings all around! (The outdoor worship service has been rescheduled for August 13.)
Playing the "All the Plymouth People" game: conversations and card signing at the potluck. (Remember to turn your card in by July 2 to be in the prize drawing.)
Fellowship of the Grape
The May FOG (Fellowship of the Grape) broke a record with over 30 people attending.
The May FOG (Fellowship of the Grape) broke a record with over 30 people attending.
Plymouth Social Club Hike. Eight humans and one Golden Retriever enjoyed hiking and fellowship in green, lush Lory State Park
Fort Collins Interfaith Council. The May meeting focused on antisemitism, which is increasing; but churches can be allies and a source of support for our Jewish communities. Learn more here. In June, the FCIC learned about emergency preparedness for disasters. More information.
Do you have a ministry highlight to share?
Be part of the 4th Tuesday email. Visit plymouthucc.org/shine
Be part of the 4th Tuesday email. Visit plymouthucc.org/shine
Last Program Sunday
We had tons of kids and youth come cheer & pray for our graduating seniors during the service! During Godly Play, kids created pictures of Jesus ascending into purple clouds & living on in our hearts. OWL wrapped up with a fun celebration. And our youth group celebrated the end of the year at Old Town Churn. Photos: B. DeMarco, E. Kim, B. McBride (includes gallery).
We had tons of kids and youth come cheer & pray for our graduating seniors during the service! During Godly Play, kids created pictures of Jesus ascending into purple clouds & living on in our hearts. OWL wrapped up with a fun celebration. And our youth group celebrated the end of the year at Old Town Churn. Photos: B. DeMarco, E. Kim, B. McBride (includes gallery).
Plymouth Concert Series
Over 40 people people attended our concert series debut on a rainy Mother's Day afternoon. The rapt audience was gifted with a world class performance of sublime music by the likes of Debussy and others -- a resounding success that bodes well for the future of this concert series! Photos: Anne Thompson
Over 40 people people attended our concert series debut on a rainy Mother's Day afternoon. The rapt audience was gifted with a world class performance of sublime music by the likes of Debussy and others -- a resounding success that bodes well for the future of this concert series! Photos: Anne Thompson
Fellowship of the Grape (aka FOG)
FOG, Fellowship of the Grape, is a monthly gathering of Plymouth members and friends 21+ who gather for wine, appetizers, and great conversation. We had 22 at our April gathering, with lots of ages represented and some new Plymouth members. Watch the Overview for dates of future gatherings. Photos: Marty Marsh
FOG, Fellowship of the Grape, is a monthly gathering of Plymouth members and friends 21+ who gather for wine, appetizers, and great conversation. We had 22 at our April gathering, with lots of ages represented and some new Plymouth members. Watch the Overview for dates of future gatherings. Photos: Marty Marsh
Farewell to the Dilles
The Trustees Board threw a farewell potluck supper on May 22nd to thank Tom and Paula Dille for their combined 40+ years of service and friendship to this church. The Dilles are moving to North Carolina to be closer to family.
The Trustees Board threw a farewell potluck supper on May 22nd to thank Tom and Paula Dille for their combined 40+ years of service and friendship to this church. The Dilles are moving to North Carolina to be closer to family.
Community Rewards Update
Thank you to all of the members of Plymouth who have been participating in our King Soopers Community Rewards Program! This participation recently allowed Plymouth Church to donate an additional $1,000 to the Food Bank for Larimer County and an additional $500 to the Family Housing Network’s Faith Family Hospitality Overnight Program. (You can participate in this outreach every time you shop at King Soopers, by linking your rewards card.)
Thank you to all of the members of Plymouth who have been participating in our King Soopers Community Rewards Program! This participation recently allowed Plymouth Church to donate an additional $1,000 to the Food Bank for Larimer County and an additional $500 to the Family Housing Network’s Faith Family Hospitality Overnight Program. (You can participate in this outreach every time you shop at King Soopers, by linking your rewards card.)
Have you seen this man?
Bill DeMarco isn't just a famous musician... he is behind the lens of some of Plymouth's most iconic photos. If you see him at church, be sure to smile. And see more of his pix here.
Bill DeMarco isn't just a famous musician... he is behind the lens of some of Plymouth's most iconic photos. If you see him at church, be sure to smile. And see more of his pix here.
Palm Sunday
It was a jubilant morning of palm raising and hosannas!
easter
The church was packed on Easter, reminding many of pre-pandemic times. Pew pads were signed by 362 people, plus 157 devices accessed our online worship on Sunday.
The traditional Silver Grill cinnamon rolls were featured at coffee hour...
... and we had at least 40 kids show up for this year’s Egg Hunt! A dozen youth hid eggs all over the lawn and the playground.
Earth Day Sunday
Between services there were earth-friendly stations for all ages:
- a worm man (with a pile of dirt with small worms that he promotes for composting)
- a beekeeper (with tools, a suit, honey, handouts and books)
- an ecologist who works on forestry
- a teacher of animals and how climate change is affecting animals (and her pup!)
- a conservationist on how to plant xeriscape gardens, assess water and utility usage, etc.
- and an opportunity to make an earth-friendly cleaning solution.
Wisdom Jesus Book Study
 | Jan Baynton hopped up and took this photo at the first meeting of the book study, when Art Rooze declared that he was delighted to see more participation than he had expected. (She's the one "sitting" in the empty chair.) |
Interfaith Participation
| Image: Brooklyn and Mike McBride represented Plymouth at CSU’s “Better Together Day,” which is a great interfaith event hosted by the Multi-Faith and Belief Student Council. "It was fun getting to connect with college students and other faith communities doing the same work around Fort Collins!" |  |
The April meeting of the Fort Collins Interfaith Council focused on Environmental and Climate issues. The meeting began with a wonderful Native blessing and dancing/drumming and then moved to a movie showing how Native people in Canada are working to take care of Mother Earth. The Fort Collins Climate Action Plan (www.fcgov.com/sustainability) was presented and discussed. Learn about the many activities of the FCIC here.
Do you have a ministry highlight to share?
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