Today’s “Rooted and Grounded in Love” will lift up Rev. Kate West and the work of First Congregational UCC in Belle Plaine, IA where she has been serving for the past 6 years.
The sanctuary at First Congregational is closed, but that hasn’t stopped Rev. Kate and her congregation from reaching out to the community and being church in new and powerful ways.
Filtering all that Church does through love and compassion has really helped guide the best possible response, knowing it might change or we may not get it right the first time around.
Rev. Kate West
As part of the Ministerial Union in Belle Plaine, Rev. Kate received a grant from CPPC (Community Partnership for Preventing Child Abuse) to restock cleaning supplies and food for the town’s food pantry. At the beginning of the pandemic, she also provided toilet paper, paper towels, and cleaning solution to childcare centers as shelves were cleared at stores in the area. “Right now Ministry is supporting people were they are and offering resources and supports as we can. These are things that provide basic dignity to many people,” Rev. Kate remarked. “Ministry also means being prophetic in words and calls to action (or not meeting in person right now) so we can ensure the health and well being of our community.”
In addition to cleaning supplies, Rev. Kate also distributes reusable face masks made by her mother to church members and to the county community garden/job training program.
What does being the church mean in these times? Rev. Kate reflected, “Things are changing every day so flexibility for laity and clergy is greatly needed. Also filtering all that Church does through love and compassion has really helped guide the best possible response, knowing it might change or we may not get it right the first time around.”
When asked what brings her joy in these times Rev. Kate said, “I enjoy getting to meet and talk with other ministers via the weekly Zoom Ministry moments. I miss everyone and can’t wait to see people in person when the time is right.”
Decorations on the Parsonage Window
Food and Supplies for the Food Pantry
Delivering Palm Branches
“The Rev. Kate West is a gift to the ministry of the United Church of Christ through our partnership with The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ),” shared Conference Minister Rev. Brigit Stevens. “Her ministry is grounded and energized by her personal faith and growth. She leads from her heart, which breaks open for justice, dignity, and belonging for all.”
Thank you Rev. Kate and First Congregational UCC for all of your community service!
“Rooted and Grounded in Love: Leaders of Extravagant Welcome and Justice” is a space to lift up and give thanks for leaders in our conferences who are leading with love and safety amidst the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic.