Inspirations Blog
A multimedia collection of stories, learnings, reflections, and resources from the people and ministries of Juniper Formation.
Juniper Formation's Wearables Ministry
Juniper Formation's Wearables Ministry has flourished throughout 2024, sharing progressive, liberative theology through wearable art, home décor, and seasonal pieces. What started as a dream in 2023 has evolved into a thriving ministry in 2024. With our Etsy shop launch complementing our website storefront, we now can reach those seeking progressive faith-inspired art across the nation. Each piece supports our mission to cocreate an inclusive, justice-centered voice for Christianity. Shop our holiday collection now with 25% off everything through December 4th.
Cocreating our future together
Daily Ripple wasn't built for a time like this one. It was cocreated by the voices of its authors to build a world of compassion and justice—challenging all to be better disciples. In a time of pain, fear, anxiety, anger, and grief, Daily Ripple provides a platform for voices that need to be heard. Our small community of readers has grown and continues to grow, now reaching five times more than just a year ago. The platform aims to become "a voice of justice in the wilderness, a space of compassion for those who hurt, and a respite from a hostile world."
Park Safety Improvements to End Gun Violence
This Fall, Juniper Formation UCC's Rev. Dr. Jenny Whitcher organized neighbors and collaborated with city officials to address a long-time gun violence hotspot in Southwest Denver. Join us this Saturday, 11/23/24, from 10:00 - 11:30 am, with the collaboration of leaders who are hosting a tour of the area to share our story with the wider community. Featured speakers include District 3 City Councilwoman Jamie Torres, Denver Police Department representatives, and Denver Parks and Recreation leadership. Our organizing has focused on building relationships, improving infrastructure, and creating an inhospitable environment for gun violence..
The Fungi Networked Church
Beneath the earth, mycelium networks model how the Church can share resources in today's digital age. Many churches still follow hierarchical structures that limit participation and exclude marginalized groups. Like mycelium's organic structure sharing resources across vast networks, digital churches can create inclusive communities unrestricted by traditional boundaries. At Juniper Formation, this approach enables quick responses for our community and measures success through relationships—not numbers.
Jesus didn’t “agree to disagree”
Jesus was highly political and a polarizing figure. He did not "agree to disagree" on social norms, laws, or religious and political leadership that caused harm to marginalized people. He spoke prophetically, telling the truth about God's unconditional love, forgiveness, care, and regard for diverse people.
What are you doing here, prophet?
The problem with a fascist dictator is that they don't care who they hurt or kill for power. Like Elijah who wrestled with violence, none of these loud, aggressive, destructive experiences contained the voice of God. Instead, may we continue in ministry—loving one another generously, seeking justice for all.
Drag Queen Disciples
A Faith Perspective on Coloradans for Protecting Reproductive Freedom
Rev. Candace Woods was honored to share remarks at the Pueblo launch of Coloradans for Protecting Reproductive Freedom. Along with our partners at Interfaith Alliance of Colorado and their coalition, we are beginning a petition signing campaign to get a measure on the ballot in November that would enshrine abortion rights in the Colorado constitution, protecting us from future attempts to strip us of reproductive freedom by lawmakers.
Navigating Thanksgiving: Faith, Gratitude, and the Tapestry of American Histories
Announcing the Juniper Formation Store, a wearables ministry
There is a need for a loving Christian public voice within our communities. We want to cocreate an inclusive and justice-filled world, so we’ve designed wearable items that reflect the loving voice we wish to see; a voice that stands against Christian nationalism and religious conservatism.
Sacramental Service of Ordination + Covenanting of Rev. Candace Woods
We invite you to join us for this celebratory occasion either in person or via Zoom.
Candace Woods has been a Member-in-Discernment (UCC ordination process) with Juniper Formation over the past year plus, she has been approved for ordination by the Rocky Mountain Conference of the United Church of Christ, and Juniper Formation is calling her as our Minister of Gender + Sexuality Liberation. This service is both an ordination and covenanting (covenant between Candace, Juniper Formation, and the Rocky Mountain Conference UCC).
A Different Way of Being Church
Read the journey of Rev. Dr. Jenny Whitcher (she/her), an unexpected church planter and pastor. In this story, she shares her profound experience with Juniper Formation and how our community is dedicated to cocreating Church and embracing a freer, more authentic faith community by shedding the "shoulds" of institutional church and following the guidance of the Holy Spirit.