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The United Church of Christ (UCC) is preparing for its 70th anniversary, which will be celebrated in 2027. Traditionally, the denomination has marked significant anniversaries during its General Synod events held in odd-numbered years. However, following a decision made in 2023, the national meeting will now occur every three years instead of biennially.
As a result, the 70th anniversary will not coincide with a Synod year. Despite this change, church members and leaders are encouraged to participate in celebrations. An announcement was made at the recent Synod in Kansas City on July 15, featuring classic footage from the 1957 Uniting General Synod and inviting participation in a "season of reflection and renewal."
Rev. Karen Georgia Thompson, UCC's General Minister and President/CEO, has appointed Rev. Kent Siladi to lead a committee planning the celebration. The committee includes Joshua Baird, Michelle Carver, and Charles Jefferson.
Siladi shared with UCC News that the celebration aims to prepare for the next General Synod in 2028 by focusing on remembering and envisioning the future of the church. “It will be a multi-dimensional year of remembering, celebrating and addressing who we are now and what the vision will be for our future life together,” he stated.
During their joint announcement in Kansas City, Thompson expressed optimism about the church's future: “This milestone is a moment to look ahead...to imagine how we will worship, serve, advocate...in fresh and faithful ways.” Siladi echoed this sentiment: “Amid uncertainty...the same Spirit who gathered us almost 70 years ago is still moving.”
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