Ladera Community Church - United Church of Christ
Stained Glass Window for Jean Abernethy

Church Structure

As part of the United Church of Christ (UCC) denomination, Ladera Community Church is self-governed and free to act in accordance with the collective decisions of its members. Church Officers, Council, Board and Committee members are elected annually.

Program Structure

Ministry Teams are formed and overseen by the Board of Ministries of the church and form the core of the church’s program structure. Made up of both laypersons and church staff these teams fill needs for the critical functions of the church, as well as provide personal support and spiritual growth to individuals. Primarily Ministry Teams are formed to strengthen the three pillars of faith in the church’s organizational structure. The Board of Ministries reviews proposals for new ministry teams, where members and friends will be free to put their gifts and talents to work.

Worship Pillar
Spiritual Growth and Community

With the pastor serving as convener, the Worship Team seeks to collaborate creatively with Faith Formation and Mission/Outreach teams in integrating seasonal themes, providing a unified focus. To provide dynamic and meaningful worship, the team welcomes participation and feedback from the congregation.

Mission/Outreach Pillar
The Community and the World

The Mission/Outreach Team plans outreach programs in the community and worldwide. They work with service and relief organizations outside the local church concerning emergency and ongoing needs, and make recommendations for action to the congregation and the Church Council.


Among the various Ministry Teams formed are:

Compassion

The Compassion Team is in communication with the pastor and congregation to receive word of those in need of prayer, and those who need transportation to worship and church events. They write notes of support and concern, and attend to those who are in crisis of any kind.

Friday Night Live

The Friday Night Live Ministry Team plans bimonthly meetings at the church for fabulous evenings of food, old-fashioned fun, and fellowship. Pre-schoolers to grandparents, and all ages in between, gather to share a meal and enjoy entertainment. It might be a vaudeville skit, a juggling show, a trivia quiz, a scavenger hunt, or a brand new idea. Following dessert, favorite card and board games are shared. Whatever is planned is meant to be fun and inclusive. (Check Monthly Calendars for schedule and peruse Photo Albums to see the fun in action.)