The vision for the United Church of Christ is simple: “United in Christ’s love, a just world for all.” Through education and activism, we seek justice for all God’s people right here in Platteville, Wisconsin. This work might look differently for each member in our community, but here are a few of the things going on:
Creation Care
Through a dedicated crew of property ministers, we seek to make our historical buildings as efficient and sustainable as possible. Learning with Interfaith Power and Light, we encourage our congregation to live with intentionality at church and at home.
ONA
Meaning “open and affirming”, ONA is a United Church of Christ designation for congregations that have made explicit their welcome and affirmation of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Queer community members. After adopting this designation in 2008 our congregation has worked to extend a warm welcome and proclaim the message of God’s inclusive love for all people.
Immigration
Many of our members volunteer with the Multicultural Outreach Program, providing one-on-one lessons for English language learners in our community. MCOP provides needed educational, cultural, and legal support for our newest neighbors. In 2017 we hosted an “immigration simulation” experience open to the community.
MCOP is currently paused.
Anti-Racism Work
We regularly offer the opportunity to work through the UCC’s White Privilege Curriculum and support the ongoing study of racism in America through a community reading group. These studies have encouraged several participants to actively work toward dismantling the systems of oppression that disproportionately hurt communities of color.
White Privilege Curriculum program is currently paused.
Southwest Wisconsin Rainbow Alliance
SWRA advances equity, justice, and quality of life through support and advocacy for the LGBTQIA+ community across southwest Wisconsin. We host their monthly support group meetings at the Cunningham House and our congregation is active in their leadership and organizing efforts.