Over the past year, I have worked with the Mwanzo Board of Directors and the Executive
Director, Loyce Ong’udi. Their tireless efforts to promote the mission of Mwanzo and bring hope
to the Rabuor community have reminded me that a career in giving back is where I see my
future.
I’m a graduating student from the University of Washington Evans School of Public Policy,
where my story brought me to Mwanzo. This year, I’ve supported Loyce and the Board as
they’ve been messengers for the Rabuor people and sought out opportunities–from
Foundations and an incredible community of donors they’ve cultivated. As one of the newest
members of the team, I have admired the dedication of each volunteer. They’ve chosen to
dedicate their time, effort, and gifts to give back to a community almost a world away. In our
monthly Board meetings, I am reminded of their belief that kindness and purpose will continue
to kindle hope. I have admired that all those who volunteer and donate to Mwanzo choose to
invest in hope.
With a Master of Public Administration, I’ve known for a while that I’ve wanted to start a career
in the nonprofit and public service space. I want to continue to advocate for communities and
use my gifts to help decision-makers act on behalf of the people they serve. Throughout my
time in Mwanzo, I’ve been reminded of the importance of the individual stories that build the
Rabuor community. The purpose and mission of Mwanzo are rooted in a deep understanding
that uplifting one will lead to success for others. In the next few months, I will be moving to the
DC area to work for a nonprofit focused in workforce development. A career in public service is
very similar to the work the Mwanzo volunteers have chosen. I’m choosing a career that
promises hope.
206-524-2322
office@universityucc.org
No matter who you are, or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here at University Congregational United Church of Christ. Young, old, sure of your path, or still searching --- we invite you to join us in imagining love and justice - as Jesus did - in acting to change the world.
Right now, during the pandemic, we are still united as church. You are welcome to attend our in-person service at 10 am each Sunday. A digital service is also offered on line on Sunday evening at 5 pm. Our service is streamed on YouTube and Facebook. You will find the links just below this section on our home page. Weekly services are are available on line after they are initially presented on Sundays..
We strive to walk in the path of Jesus, and to offer an authentic welcome to everyone who walks through our door or joins us online. If you are new to us, we would love to get to know you and answer your questions about our church, even though we cannot greet you in person. A member of our Welcome Committee, or a pastor, would be happy to correspond on email or talk with you on the phone. Click here to arrange for a meeting.
Our in-person worship service starts at 10 am and includes hymns, prayers, scripture reading and a sermon. It usually lasts about an hour. During the 10 am service we also offer live-streaming to a nearby room that offers those with compromised immune systems to be more isolated. We also offer a separate space for children, with supervised play and crafts during the 10 am service. Sections of the 10 am service are programed into the 5 pm digital service, which is offered as a "vespers."
Children are an important part of our community, and are welcome for all or part or the service.
View for detailed Google Map.
Parking can be a challenge in the University District! Persistence, patience and an early start are keys to success.
UW has free parking on Sundays. Enter the main campus gate at NE 45th and 17th Ave NE and turn left past the toll booth. It's about a three-block walk to the church. The UW Meany Garage at 15th Ave. NE and NE 41st St. is a five-block walk.
The church also owns three parking lots - Lot A is across the street from the church on 16th Ave. E. Lot B is beneath Sortun Court, just north of the church on the east side of 16th Ave. E. (It closes at 2 p.m.) Lot C (for those with difficulty walking, young children and visitors) is at the corner of 15th NE and NE 45th St., next to the church.
If you need to be assured of a close parking spot, you can call the church office before noon on Friday to reserve one: 206-524-2322.
During this pandemic, we have discontinued our in-person lunches. We would love to meet with you via email or phone, however. Click here to arrange a meeting with a Welcome Committee Volunteer or pastor.
We can explore and explain a range of topics about our church, from history, to theology, to membership. Please contact us at the link above for more information.
We are an inter-generational church and strive to be family-friendly, with an active ministry for children and youth. All ages are welcome in worship. We also offer nursery and child-care, Younger children begin the 10 am service with us and usually leave after about 15 minutes. Older children have the option of leaving for a special sermon time. Junior high and high school youth meet at 9 am and then often sit together in worship. Give us a call at 206-524-2322 for more specifics.
Our programs for children and youth continue during this pandemic. Sign up at the bottom of the home page to receive our Children's Ministries and/or Youth Ministries newsletter.
Hearing Impaired: Our sanctuary has an induction loop system that uses the T-Coil mode of your hearing aids. You can get the necessary equipment just before entering the Sanctuary on the right or ask any usher.
Visually Impaired: We offer each Sunday's program in large print for easier readability.
Wheelchair Access: The front entry is wheelchair accessible as are the rest rooms. Please don't hesitate to ask for assistance.
