What Can We Do?

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As “Seekers Embracing the Journey” foremost we value the scripture-rooted activity of loving God, our neighbors, and ourselves. We remain committed to growing spiritually and in relationship with each other and to embodying the presence and actions of Jesus Christ in the world. In doing so, we resolve to stand firmly in our values--even if those values come under duress in coming days. — United Church of Hayward, UCC Values Statement

Since I have returned from renewal leave, several of you have said things to me like, “With all the chaos around us, it is extremely easy to get overwhelmed. What can we do?”

Here are six things we can do: six ways to get involved, amplify information, and review our resources for these challenging times. The organizations and events listed here provide ways for us to live into our United Church of Hayward, UCC Values Statement and embody Jesus's values in our communities. I highly recommend #1, and #3 if you are feeling helpless or overwhelmed. And here is something to add to your playlist when you are feeling down and the going gets harder.  

— Rev. Jeanne

  1. Review Our UCH Values Statement. United Church of Hayward's Values Statement — United Church of Hayward

  2. Vote. Get Your Ballot in the Mail Now. Show Up at the Polls. Get it done.

  3. Join the United Church of Christ “40 Days of Prayer Leading Up to the Midterms” Information is here: ‘Pause our doom-scrolling. Quiet our hearts’: Resources offer prayer and care at height of election season - United Church of Christ

  4. Download the Five Calls App: Here is the non-profit organization I have mentioned where you can find updated pressing legislative issues, contact information, and phone scripts to call representatives in your location to advocate for our UCH values. The Five Calls app is also available in the Apple and Google Play/Android store for your smart phone. If you are unable to rally or attend events, this is something you can do in your living room chair. It’s also a great antidote for feeling helpless and isolated.

  5. Support The Eden Area Interfaith Council represents diverse religious organizations in the East Bay that promote respect for all faiths and human rights for all. EAIC is a collective of religious groups in the Eden Area of Northern California's East Bay, including Hayward, Castro Valley, San Leandro, and San Lorenzo. EAIC plans local events and vigils and decorates city hall in a way that honors all traditions during the holidays. UCH is a faith community member. 

  6. South Hayward Parish Food Pantry has unfortunately closed. But there are ways to help the hungry in our community. And it is more important than ever with SNAP benefits disappearing and groceries getting ever more expensive. The need is tremendous: Comida para Cherryland at Eden UCC is distributing food every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm, or until food is gone. If anyone needs emergency food on non-comida days, please call the Eden Office Manager at (510) 582-9533, to schedule an appointment to pick-up a food bag from Monday - Friday between 9-4pm.