Overview of 130th Legislature 2021
MCC Board members, volunteer advocates, members of the Public Policy Committee, and our Executive Director have been testifying, writing editorials and letters to editors, and collaborating with our twelve partner organizations to be sure that the voice of faith is heard in the halls of the State House.
We have posted copies of written testimony on our website. Follow the link if your are interested in viewing https://mainecouncilofchurches.org/legislative-priorities/
Maine congregations wrestle with reopening in the wake of vaccinations
from the Portland Press Herald
Faith groups across the state are returning to ‘a new normal,’ knowing that some members may not be inoculated.
White Supremacy in 2021: Putting Violent Extremists on Trial
Watch the Zoom from the important discussion with Integrity First for America on White Supremacy in 2021: Putting Violent Extremists on Trial. MCC was a proud co-sponsor of this event and our Executive Director, Rev. Jane Field, was a speaker and special guest.
Conscience and Hope
Click here to watch Conscience and Hope live stream; a panel discussion on how the principles and teachings of different faith traditions (Christianity, Judaism, and Islam) aid their followers’ discernment on political issues, especially in a an election year. Featuring Bishop Robert Deeley & Suzanne Lafreniere (Catholic Diocese of Portland), Rev. Jane Field (Maine Council of Churches), Rabbi Carolyn Braun (Temple Beth El), and Councilman Pious Ali. Sponsored by the Saint Joseph’s College Center for Faith and Spirituality.
Maine Together in Faith
The Maine Council of Churches was a signatory to the following letter, written by Rev. Dr. Marvin Ellison, that appeared in the Bangor Daily News on September 15. We encourage all faith leaders to add their names by joining the statement at MaineTogetherInFaith.com.
Voices of Color
As our nation’s attention is turned to the race-based oppression and privilege that plague us, many in the white community are seeking ways to stand in trustworthy solidarity with our siblings of color. We at the Maine Council of Churches, whose denominations, clergy and congregants are predominantly white, would like to offer an opportunity for white people of faith and good will to simply STOP—in contemplative, prayerful, humble silence—and LISTEN to the voices of people of color—to the truth, pain, judgment, and prophetic calls to action those voices are speaking. Each week this summer, we will publish a link to a short excerpt from a video, radio broadcast or podcast, along with some biographical information about the speaker. It is our hope that this spiritual discipline of listening will lead to transformative awareness and action.
Resource Sharing and Support for Maine Churches Providing Social Services During the COVID-19 Emergency
Click here to watch recording
At the Threshold: Congregations and Their Buildings in the Time of COVID-19
Today we are releasing “At the Threshold: Congregations and Their Buildings in the Time of COVID-19,” a set of recommendations for Maine’s churches as they begin discerning how and when to re-open their buildings for in-person worship services.
Interactive webinar for clergy and funeral directors to discuss funeral protocols during and after the pandemic
On Friday, May 8, MCC hosted an interactive webinar for Maine funeral professionals and clergy to discuss funerals and grief in a time of COVID19. Click here to watch the recording.
