First sign of civilization

Years ago, anthropologist Margaret Mead was asked by a student what she considered to be the first sign of civilization in a culture. The student expected Meade to talk about fishhooks, clay pots, or grinding stones. But no. Meade said that ancient culture’s first sign of civilization was a femur (thigh bone) that had been… Continue reading First sign of civilization

Transgender Day of Remembrance

The LGBTQ+ Ministry Team as part of The Church of the Palms of Sun City, AZ commits to an annual Transgender Day of Remembrance ceremony to memorialize the transgender people whose lives were lost in acts of anti-transgender violence, hatred or prejudice during the last calendar year. Although not every person represented during the Day… Continue reading Transgender Day of Remembrance

Phoenix Pride Parade

Held in October Phoenix Pride Parade participation brings such joy. We encourage members of the congregation, and the community to join us in walking the parade route accompanied by our decorated Church truck: sharing water with the walkers, candy and informational brochures with the watchers. The vehicle signage identifies who we are, our values, and… Continue reading Phoenix Pride Parade

Open and Affirming Sunday

Last Sunday in June This is a day to celebrate with The Church of the Palms’ congregation and the public our joy and gratitude in knowing that we continue to focus on being a place of belonging, entrenched with love in an environment of safety where strong bonds and deep relationships can form. The LGBTQ+ Ministry… Continue reading Open and Affirming Sunday

Rainbows Festival in Heritage Gardens

We host a tent each year with volunteers for the weekend greeting everyone with unconditional love and an extravagant welcome. Our table is overflowing with information about The Church of the Palms UCC, as well as other O&A churches in the area for those not living in the west valley (we have a list and… Continue reading Rainbows Festival in Heritage Gardens

Story Sharing Circles

On the third Sunday of each month The Story Circle, inspired by the ancient talking stick tradition, brings people together to share, listen, foster understanding and belonging between LGBTQ+ individuals, allies, friends and family. Story Circles offer a safe space for sharing stories without advice or judgment. The LGBTQ+ Ministry Team is bringing these circles… Continue reading Story Sharing Circles

2024 Transgender Day of Remembrance

Transgender Day of Remembrance The LGBTQ+ Ministry Team as part of The Church of the Palms of Sun City, AZ commits to an annual Transgender Day of Remembrance to memorialize the transgender people whose lives were lost in acts of anti-transgender violence, hatred or prejudice during the last calendar year. Although not every person represented… Continue reading 2024 Transgender Day of Remembrance

The Porcupine’s Dilemma

The North American common porcupine is a member of the rodent family and has around 30,000 quills attached to its body. Each quill can be driven into a would-be enemy. The wounds can fester; the more dangerous ones, affecting vital organs, can be fatal. As a general rule, porcupines have two methods for handling relationships:… Continue reading The Porcupine’s Dilemma