Letter from President of the United Church of Christ Musicians Association

Greetings, fellow United Church of Christ musician!

Introduction to UCCMA

As the new President of the United Church of Christ Musicians Association (UCCMA), I am reaching out to introduce you to our organization and share how it can support you in your role as a musical leader within one of our UCC congregations. I have served as the Music Director at St. Paul’s UCC in Mechanicsburg, PA for nearly 45 years and have been involved with the UCCMA for over a decade.

The Challenge of Church Music Ministry

Many of us are familiar with the challenges of serving our congregations week after week, often feeling isolated and working with limited resources. It is not always easy to find others who truly understand the unique demands of our work. The UCCMA exists to offer you valuable resources and a supportive network of colleagues who share your experiences.

Membership Benefits

As a member of the UCCMA, you can take advantage of a variety of benefits designed specifically for church musicians:

• Receive our professional digital journal, Worship, Music, and Ministry, which is sent to you and available online, providing a wealth of resources, ideas, and repertoire.

• Stay informed with our electronic UCC Musicians News and other email communications about important updates and happenings.

• Participate in our Saturday Sharing webinars, which focus on current topics in church music.

• Access our online directory of members to connect and network with colleagues nationwide easily.

• Utilize our job placement listing and guidance service to explore new opportunities.

• Attend our biennial national Summer Conference, which features a variety of workshops, music, and worship experiences. Our next conference is scheduled for July 8-11, 2026, at First Community Church in Columbus, OH.

• Enjoy member discounts on conference registrations.

• Be part of a supportive environment where you can sharpen your skills, share resources, and connect with fellow musicians.

The UCCMA Community

Although the UCCMA has been in existence for over 30 years, many in our area remain unaware of its offerings. My own experience attending the UCCMA Summer Conference in Chicago in 2015 was transformative; I found not only the benefits listed above, but also a welcoming group of UCC musicians who quickly became like family. The spirit of caring and sharing in this community has been invaluable in helping me continue the work I love.

How to Join

Please check us out by visiting https://uccma.wildapricot.org/join-us. Membership options are available under the “JOIN” tab, including a complimentary 90-day membership—a great way to get started. I invite you to join the UCCMA family and discover how we can support your ministry.

In Christ’s Love,

Eric Dundore

UCCMA President

23 Broadmoor Drive

Mechanicsburg, PA 17055

717-460-8301

[email protected]