Who are we?

  • Who is UCCRGV?

    UCCRGV is an open and affirming United Church of Christ emerging community that seeks to do justice in the Rio Grande Valley for immigrants, refugees, people in the margins, LGBTQ+ humans, and support the people who love them.

  • Our Vision

    We seek to create an open space where people in the Rio Grande Valley can connect, engage, and support individuals and families. UCCRGV cultivates a space where refugees of both physical and spiritual needs can find the restorative power of love and hope in the wilderness.

  • Our Mission

    UCCRGV seeks to address the polarization of political-religious division in our community through innovative ways that harvest radical inclusion. We aim to connect through community projects that promote human dignity and justice.
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Pastor

Rev. Ali Lopez-Valcarcel

Ali graduated from UTRGV School of Social Work with a Master’s in Social Work and served as a Chaplain Assistant in the US Army. Pastor Ali is also an MDiv. graduate from Brite Divinity School and an ordained minister at the United Church of Christ.

Rev. Ali currently leads The United Church of Christ Rio Grande Valley a UCC emerging congregation that seeks to do justice in the RGV for immigrants, refugees, people in the margins, LGBTQ+ humans, and support the people who love them. UCC RGV is nationally recognized for their efforts and was awarded the UCC New Church Start and the Grant Neighbors helping Neighbors.

Rev. Ali is a passionate advocate for Christ inclusive justice and extravagant welcome that declares all children are loved by God and celebrated for who they are.

Leadership

Joel Brotzman-Gonzales

Brotzman-Gonzales (He/Him) has been a spiritual leader in marginalized communities of the Rio Grande Valley of Texas for many years. He is currently serving as Director of Deacons for United Church of Christ Rio Grande Valley, and works as an Assistant Registrar for Pathways Theological Education, Inc. As a singer-songwriter who performs under the name Joel Brogon, he often uses music as a vehicle for outreach and activism, bringing awareness to environmental and LGBTQ+ issues. Joel also enjoys writing, acting, directing, photography, and baking. Joel is based in southernmost Texas and lives with his husband Christopher and their four children.

Event posts

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  • inclusive,church,lgbt,956,rgv,community

    Joining together for healing and wholeness

    Why is inclusivity important in church? Inclusivity is important in church because it reflects the teachings of love, acceptance, and compassion that are at the core of many faith traditions....

    Joining together for healing and wholeness

    Why is inclusivity important in church? Inclusivity is important in church because it reflects the teachings of love, acceptance, and compassion that are at the core of many faith traditions....

  • Mission: Border immersion experience

    Mission: Border immersion experience

    Are you looking for a meaningful way to make a difference in the world? Joining our UCCRGV mission trip can be a life-changing experience, allowing you to serve others and...

    Mission: Border immersion experience

    Are you looking for a meaningful way to make a difference in the world? Joining our UCCRGV mission trip can be a life-changing experience, allowing you to serve others and...

  • UCCRGV- Coffee Talk

    UCCRGV- Coffee Talk

    In today's fast-paced world, finding a sense of community and connection can be challenging. However, for those seeking a deeper connection with others and a space to explore their spirituality,UCCRGV...

    UCCRGV- Coffee Talk

    In today's fast-paced world, finding a sense of community and connection can be challenging. However, for those seeking a deeper connection with others and a space to explore their spirituality,UCCRGV...

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