Sometimes I get asked what makes the Disciples of Christ churches unique from any other denomination. And sometimes I have a decent answer for that question. Other times I struggle with defining the characteristics that make Disciples distinct. What I do know is what I have experienced; a kind of people who are generous in faith and spirit, who work hard to overcome obstacles with a willing heart to serve one another, and the passion for autonomy while respecting democratic governing principles for church structure. 

The Disciples are the oldest Christian denomination that was founded on American soil. We "grew up" as the country did, with our roots deep in the American frontier of the mid 1800's. There's a rugged individualism that congregations hold on to, and there's a vibrant respect for what we call the "Priesthood of all believers" - a notion that laypeople and clergy alike are called by God to the ministry of Good News. 

This Sunday we begin a 4-week preaching and learning series all about the Disciples of Christ. We'll discover who we are, where we've been and what's next for us as a denomination and congregation. The (still nameless) class that I teach in the Qahal classroom (old nursery) will be learning about the DOC as well; kind of a "Disciples 101" course. All are welcome to attend. 

I hope to see you Sunday for 8:00 or 10:30 services. - Andy

To Learn More About our Disciples History, Visit the Disciples of Christ Historical Society Online:

http://www.discipleshistory.org/history/brief-history-stone-campbell-tradition

Beginning soon, the Circle of Elders at Hillside will start a new program called Hillside Care Clusters. The Care Clusters are small groups of 12-15 people from the congregation, organized by family unit and placed under the care of one of Hillside's 24 Elders. The plan is simple - through the Care Clusters, the entire congregation will be covered by pastoral care and spiritual leadership from the Circle of Elders and the clergy.

Elders do this by:

1. Reaching out to those on their list and introducing themselves and the purpose of the program
2. Asking if there is anything that the Circle of Elders or the Pastoral staff of the church can be in prayer for them about
3. Gathering updated information, and seeing if they are receiving the necessary communications from the church
4. Providing pastoral care in times of crisis, health concerns, or need.

The Circle Elders are undergoing regular training by the Senior Minister on areas specific to the ministry of the Elders.
These areas include:

1. At home communion visits
2. Hospital visits
3. New member / visitor calls
4. Prayer practices
5. and many others

As the Care Cluster program rolls out, be sure to inform your new Care Elder of any need you have. We will be adapting and changing the program as we gain experience about how best to serve the spiritual and care needs of the congregation, and this is a great way to start!

- Andy