- Emergency Response director sees tsunami response in Indonesia.
- Plane intercepted over Washington was piloted by Brethren.
- Bethany Theological Seminary celebrates 100th commencement.
- Theological students graduate in Dominican Republic.
- Committee seeks information on barriers to intercultural ministries.
- Emergency Disaster Fund gives $20,000 in two grants.
- Disaster Child Care trains project managers, critical response volunteers.
- Brethren bits: Personnel, action alert, and more.
Wednesday, May 25, 2005
NEWS
Emergency Response director sees tsunami response in Indonesia.
Areas of Indonesia affected by the tsunami are "very much still a mess," said Roy Winter, the General Board's director of Emergency Response. "This is going to be a five-to-six-year response." In mid-April Winter was one of seven representatives of US denominations in a Church World Service delegation to two major tsunami response areas: Banda Aceh and Meulaboh.
The Church of the Brethren is supporting CWS's tsunami relief effort. To date, the General Board's Emergency Disaster Fund has given $320,000 to CWS for tsunami relief in Indonesia, India, and Sri Lanka.
Winter and the men in the delegation visited Meulaboh, south of Banda Aceh along the coast of Sumatra. Some 13,000 people died or disappeared in the 314 villages in the area, Winter said. Before the tsunami, the area was closed to tourists or foreign visitors because of the civil war, but now foreigners are allowed to visit. Winter was impressed by the work of local officials, especially a Muslim sub-district head who obviously had the wellbeing of his people at heart. Most of Indonesia is Muslim, Winter explained.
The official showed the delegation the need to rebuild boats for fishermen, who are among the poorer members of the community, before rebuilding homes for the relatively wealthy landowners. He was very respectful of the CWS response to the disaster, Winter said. "He was also supportive and cooperative of using good disaster response and development principles."
The official took the delegation to view the mosque where he and other worshipers were caught by the tsunami when it hit. The building filled completely and many in the congregation survived by holding on to ceiling fans for an hour before the water subsided. Then the bodies of those who did not survive were carried into the mosque--only to be swept away again by a second wave. That personal story--and the high-water marks on the walls--brought home the extent of the destruction, Winter said. "We were on holy ground," he said.
In Meulaboh, Winter saw people living in tents beside their destroyed houses--for some the only way to claim their land after government records were lost in the disaster. Indonesia has declared a "green zone" from the coast to 500 meters inland, in which rebuilding will not be allowed, Winter reported. The government is to buy property in other locations for those who lived in the green zone. "This means whole communities are waiting for the government to relocate them, when the government does not have the funds to buy the land," he said. Tents provided by CWS and others are considered temporary, but Winter fears many will live in them for a long time. Rebuilding of homes has already begun in areas that have received a lot of international attention, he said, therefore CWS plans to begin its rebuilding program in "forgotten villages" where other agencies are not at work.
CWS has helped rebuild a water treatment plant in Meulaboh, where clean water has been a major issue. The plant serves 300 households and some 5,000 refugees in tent cities. CWS also is cleaning wells contaminated by the tsunami, digging new wells, and providing latrines and communal bathrooms. "While I was there I heard nothing about disease outbreaks," Winter said, citing this as a major achievement of the emphasis on clean water and good sanitation. The CWS response in Indonesia also has included material aid distribution and medical teams carrying Interchurch Medical Assistance (IMA) Clinic Boxes to remote villages to do medical care and to offer counseling services.
CWS had 100 staff--mostly Indonesians--working in Indonesia before the tsunami hit. Since that time, some have been reassigned to tsunami response, and some new staff have been hired to respond to the need, Winter said. Other CWS staff continue ongoing development programs throughout the rest of the country. "I cannot say how impressed I am with what they do," Winter said. Many are taking months away from their families to do the work, he added.
Winter encourages Brethren to send letters or cards of appreciation to the CWS staff in Indonesia. Send cards and letters to: CWS Staff--Indonesia, Emergency Response, Brethren Service Center, P.O. Box 188, New Windsor, MD 21776-0188.
Source: 05/25/2005 Newsline
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Areas of Indonesia affected by the tsunami are "very much still a mess," said Roy Winter, the General Board's director of Emergency Response. "This is going to be a five-to-six-year response." In mid-April Winter was one of seven representatives of US denominations in a Church World Service delegation to two major tsunami response areas: Banda Aceh and Meulaboh.
The Church of the Brethren is supporting CWS's tsunami relief effort. To date, the General Board's Emergency Disaster Fund has given $320,000 to CWS for tsunami relief in Indonesia, India, and Sri Lanka.
Winter and the men in the delegation visited Meulaboh, south of Banda Aceh along the coast of Sumatra. Some 13,000 people died or disappeared in the 314 villages in the area, Winter said. Before the tsunami, the area was closed to tourists or foreign visitors because of the civil war, but now foreigners are allowed to visit. Winter was impressed by the work of local officials, especially a Muslim sub-district head who obviously had the wellbeing of his people at heart. Most of Indonesia is Muslim, Winter explained.
The official showed the delegation the need to rebuild boats for fishermen, who are among the poorer members of the community, before rebuilding homes for the relatively wealthy landowners. He was very respectful of the CWS response to the disaster, Winter said. "He was also supportive and cooperative of using good disaster response and development principles."
The official took the delegation to view the mosque where he and other worshipers were caught by the tsunami when it hit. The building filled completely and many in the congregation survived by holding on to ceiling fans for an hour before the water subsided. Then the bodies of those who did not survive were carried into the mosque--only to be swept away again by a second wave. That personal story--and the high-water marks on the walls--brought home the extent of the destruction, Winter said. "We were on holy ground," he said.
In Meulaboh, Winter saw people living in tents beside their destroyed houses--for some the only way to claim their land after government records were lost in the disaster. Indonesia has declared a "green zone" from the coast to 500 meters inland, in which rebuilding will not be allowed, Winter reported. The government is to buy property in other locations for those who lived in the green zone. "This means whole communities are waiting for the government to relocate them, when the government does not have the funds to buy the land," he said. Tents provided by CWS and others are considered temporary, but Winter fears many will live in them for a long time. Rebuilding of homes has already begun in areas that have received a lot of international attention, he said, therefore CWS plans to begin its rebuilding program in "forgotten villages" where other agencies are not at work.
CWS has helped rebuild a water treatment plant in Meulaboh, where clean water has been a major issue. The plant serves 300 households and some 5,000 refugees in tent cities. CWS also is cleaning wells contaminated by the tsunami, digging new wells, and providing latrines and communal bathrooms. "While I was there I heard nothing about disease outbreaks," Winter said, citing this as a major achievement of the emphasis on clean water and good sanitation. The CWS response in Indonesia also has included material aid distribution and medical teams carrying Interchurch Medical Assistance (IMA) Clinic Boxes to remote villages to do medical care and to offer counseling services.
CWS had 100 staff--mostly Indonesians--working in Indonesia before the tsunami hit. Since that time, some have been reassigned to tsunami response, and some new staff have been hired to respond to the need, Winter said. Other CWS staff continue ongoing development programs throughout the rest of the country. "I cannot say how impressed I am with what they do," Winter said. Many are taking months away from their families to do the work, he added.
Winter encourages Brethren to send letters or cards of appreciation to the CWS staff in Indonesia. Send cards and letters to: CWS Staff--Indonesia, Emergency Response, Brethren Service Center, P.O. Box 188, New Windsor, MD 21776-0188.
Source: 05/25/2005 Newsline
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Plane intercepted over Washington was piloted by Brethren.
The pilots whose small plane entered restricted air space over Washington, D.C., on May 11 causing the evacuation of the White House, the Capitol, and the Supreme Court, are Brethren. Pilot Hayden "Jim" Sheaffer of Lititz (Pa.) Church of the Brethren, and student pilot Troy Martin of Ephrata (Pa.) Church of the Brethren, were on their way to an air show.
"Both Troy and Jim sought the church for support" following the incident, said pastor Bob Kettering of the Lititz congregation. "They are salt of the earth people. I feel very badly about it." He said the men received "gracious and kind" treatment by the authorities, including the FBI and Secret Service, after their plane was escorted away from Washington, D.C., by F-16 fighter jets.
In worship the next Sunday, pastor Galen Hackman at Ephrata asked his congregation to be in prayer for the pilots and their families. He also requested church members not to ask Martin about the event, explaining that the men were not yet at liberty to talk publicly for legal reasons. The pastors reported that the press "camped out" at the men's homes, and even contacted the church for comment.
Since then, Sheaffer has appeared on the "Today" show on NBC with his lawyer on May 23. "I thought we were going to get shot out of the sky," he said.
Source: 05/25/2005 Newsline
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The pilots whose small plane entered restricted air space over Washington, D.C., on May 11 causing the evacuation of the White House, the Capitol, and the Supreme Court, are Brethren. Pilot Hayden "Jim" Sheaffer of Lititz (Pa.) Church of the Brethren, and student pilot Troy Martin of Ephrata (Pa.) Church of the Brethren, were on their way to an air show.
"Both Troy and Jim sought the church for support" following the incident, said pastor Bob Kettering of the Lititz congregation. "They are salt of the earth people. I feel very badly about it." He said the men received "gracious and kind" treatment by the authorities, including the FBI and Secret Service, after their plane was escorted away from Washington, D.C., by F-16 fighter jets.
In worship the next Sunday, pastor Galen Hackman at Ephrata asked his congregation to be in prayer for the pilots and their families. He also requested church members not to ask Martin about the event, explaining that the men were not yet at liberty to talk publicly for legal reasons. The pastors reported that the press "camped out" at the men's homes, and even contacted the church for comment.
Since then, Sheaffer has appeared on the "Today" show on NBC with his lawyer on May 23. "I thought we were going to get shot out of the sky," he said.
Source: 05/25/2005 Newsline
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Bethany Theological Seminary celebrates 100th commencement.
Bethany Theological Seminary celebrated its 100th commencement on May 7 in Richmond, Ind. A ceremony for conferring degrees was held at Bethany's Nicarry Chapel and a worship celebration at Richmond Church of the Brethren.
President Eugene Roop welcomed graduates, family, and friends to the noteworthy commencement. "Please know that as you carry Bethany with you, you have affected Bethany whether that influence be obvious or subtle," he told the graduates. "You join a century-long company of students who have shaped as well as been shaped by Bethany."
Fumitaka Matsuoka spoke at the degrees ceremony, encouraging graduates to ask the question, "How do I live out God's vision?" Matsuoka is professor of Theology and executive director of the Institute for Leadership Development and Study of Pacific and Asian North American Religion at Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley, Calif, and a 1969 Bethany graduate. He served as academic dean at Bethany from 1987-92. His address, "An Unmasking Experience," was based on Isaiah 6:1-9.
During the ceremony, faculty accomplishments of the past year were noted including the Rohrer Book Award received by Dawn Ottoni Wilhelm for "Believing in Preaching: What Listeners Hear in Sermons" (Chalice Press), which she co-authored; and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Fuller Theological Seminary to be received by Jonathan Shively on June 11. His dissertation is titled, "Anabaptist and Pietist Foundations for Urban Multicultural Leadership."
Tara Hornbacker gave the message, "Against the Flow," for the worship celebration. She asked graduates to take a fresh look at Romans 12:9-21. "We have at times in our history focused on truncated versions of the Gospel--stopped at the ‘be not conformed' part--without the rest of the story," she said. "The scripture reminds us that transformation has its origin and its goal in God."
Ten students received Master of Divinity degrees: Ann M. Bach of Richmond, Ind.; Kay E. Gaier of North Manchester, Ind.; Evan Benjamin Garber of Weyers Cave, Va.; Tracy Ann Knechel of Dayton, Ohio; Connie M. Maclay of Mapleton Depot, Pa.; Todd Reish of Richmond, Ind.; James Kent Risser of Lewiston, Minn.; Pearl Rebecca Rohrer of Richmond, Ind.; John Sgro of Decatur, Ind.; and James Zerfing of Lancaster, Pa. Risser is Bethany's first graduate to receive both of the seminary's degree emphases of Peace Studies and Ministry with Youth and Young Adults. Maclay was awarded distinction in Biblical Studies. Knechel and Gaier were awarded distinction in Ministry Studies.
Two students received Master of Arts in Theology degrees: Deborah E. Romary of Fort Wayne, Ind.; and Lutricia L. Zerfing of New Paris, Ohio. Jon Keller of Greenville, Ohio, received a Certificate of Achievement in Theological Studies.
Source: 05/25/2005 Newsline
top
Bethany Theological Seminary celebrated its 100th commencement on May 7 in Richmond, Ind. A ceremony for conferring degrees was held at Bethany's Nicarry Chapel and a worship celebration at Richmond Church of the Brethren.
President Eugene Roop welcomed graduates, family, and friends to the noteworthy commencement. "Please know that as you carry Bethany with you, you have affected Bethany whether that influence be obvious or subtle," he told the graduates. "You join a century-long company of students who have shaped as well as been shaped by Bethany."
Fumitaka Matsuoka spoke at the degrees ceremony, encouraging graduates to ask the question, "How do I live out God's vision?" Matsuoka is professor of Theology and executive director of the Institute for Leadership Development and Study of Pacific and Asian North American Religion at Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley, Calif, and a 1969 Bethany graduate. He served as academic dean at Bethany from 1987-92. His address, "An Unmasking Experience," was based on Isaiah 6:1-9.
During the ceremony, faculty accomplishments of the past year were noted including the Rohrer Book Award received by Dawn Ottoni Wilhelm for "Believing in Preaching: What Listeners Hear in Sermons" (Chalice Press), which she co-authored; and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Fuller Theological Seminary to be received by Jonathan Shively on June 11. His dissertation is titled, "Anabaptist and Pietist Foundations for Urban Multicultural Leadership."
Tara Hornbacker gave the message, "Against the Flow," for the worship celebration. She asked graduates to take a fresh look at Romans 12:9-21. "We have at times in our history focused on truncated versions of the Gospel--stopped at the ‘be not conformed' part--without the rest of the story," she said. "The scripture reminds us that transformation has its origin and its goal in God."
Ten students received Master of Divinity degrees: Ann M. Bach of Richmond, Ind.; Kay E. Gaier of North Manchester, Ind.; Evan Benjamin Garber of Weyers Cave, Va.; Tracy Ann Knechel of Dayton, Ohio; Connie M. Maclay of Mapleton Depot, Pa.; Todd Reish of Richmond, Ind.; James Kent Risser of Lewiston, Minn.; Pearl Rebecca Rohrer of Richmond, Ind.; John Sgro of Decatur, Ind.; and James Zerfing of Lancaster, Pa. Risser is Bethany's first graduate to receive both of the seminary's degree emphases of Peace Studies and Ministry with Youth and Young Adults. Maclay was awarded distinction in Biblical Studies. Knechel and Gaier were awarded distinction in Ministry Studies.
Two students received Master of Arts in Theology degrees: Deborah E. Romary of Fort Wayne, Ind.; and Lutricia L. Zerfing of New Paris, Ohio. Jon Keller of Greenville, Ohio, received a Certificate of Achievement in Theological Studies.
Source: 05/25/2005 Newsline
top
Theological students graduate in Dominican Republic.
(Note: The editor apologizes for the tardiness of this report.)
On Nov. 24, 2004, the Church of the Brethren in the Dominican Republic celebrated a second graduating class of students in its Theological Program. The Los Toros church hosted the ceremony.
"This class was a special one," reported Guillermo Encarnacion, director of the program. The 22 students who graduated were Cristian Aquino, Felix Antonio Arias, Gloria Elena Beltre, Mariano Cespedes, Maria Altagracia Cespedes, Wander Antonio Cespedes, Bienvenida Cuevas, Odalis Encarnacion, Benito Encarnacion, Miladys Figuereo, Mary Luz Mejia, Josefa Marmolejos, Wilson Nova, Martha Esther Ogando, Maria Mercedes Perez, Alba Nurys Perez, Angel L. Ramirez, Alba I. Rodriguez, David Antonio Reyes, Leonida Vicente Reyes, Ariel de Jesus Rosario, and Viriato Feliz Rubio.
The curriculum of the Theological Program is designed for five years, with emphasis on Old and New Testaments, pastoral care and counseling, preaching the Gospel, church history, Anabaptist and Pietist roots, stewardship, church structure, liturgy and worship, ministry with women, and doctrine, rites, and practices of the Church of the Brethren.
"To implement this curriculum we have been blessed by the collaboration of many excellent teachers and professors in the Dominican Republic and from the United States," reported Encarnacion. He expressed thanks to Allen H. Hansell, former director of Ministry for the General Board; Miqueas Ramirez of the Mennonite Church; Carlos Garcia, professor of the Evangelical University; Bethany professor Daniel Ulrich; Daniel I. de Oleo; Ruben de Oleo; Rebecca and Jerry Crouse; Irvin and Nancy Heishman; Verel Montauban; Cristina Vda. Bobea; Carol and Roger Steffy; and Elias De'Oleo, who serves as the national tutor of the program. Forty-eight students continue in theological training at various stages in the program.
Source: 05/25/2005 Newsline
top
(Note: The editor apologizes for the tardiness of this report.)
On Nov. 24, 2004, the Church of the Brethren in the Dominican Republic celebrated a second graduating class of students in its Theological Program. The Los Toros church hosted the ceremony.
"This class was a special one," reported Guillermo Encarnacion, director of the program. The 22 students who graduated were Cristian Aquino, Felix Antonio Arias, Gloria Elena Beltre, Mariano Cespedes, Maria Altagracia Cespedes, Wander Antonio Cespedes, Bienvenida Cuevas, Odalis Encarnacion, Benito Encarnacion, Miladys Figuereo, Mary Luz Mejia, Josefa Marmolejos, Wilson Nova, Martha Esther Ogando, Maria Mercedes Perez, Alba Nurys Perez, Angel L. Ramirez, Alba I. Rodriguez, David Antonio Reyes, Leonida Vicente Reyes, Ariel de Jesus Rosario, and Viriato Feliz Rubio.
The curriculum of the Theological Program is designed for five years, with emphasis on Old and New Testaments, pastoral care and counseling, preaching the Gospel, church history, Anabaptist and Pietist roots, stewardship, church structure, liturgy and worship, ministry with women, and doctrine, rites, and practices of the Church of the Brethren.
"To implement this curriculum we have been blessed by the collaboration of many excellent teachers and professors in the Dominican Republic and from the United States," reported Encarnacion. He expressed thanks to Allen H. Hansell, former director of Ministry for the General Board; Miqueas Ramirez of the Mennonite Church; Carlos Garcia, professor of the Evangelical University; Bethany professor Daniel Ulrich; Daniel I. de Oleo; Ruben de Oleo; Rebecca and Jerry Crouse; Irvin and Nancy Heishman; Verel Montauban; Cristina Vda. Bobea; Carol and Roger Steffy; and Elias De'Oleo, who serves as the national tutor of the program. Forty-eight students continue in theological training at various stages in the program.
Source: 05/25/2005 Newsline
top
Committee seeks information on barriers to intercultural ministries.
The Annual Conference Intercultural Study Committee has met twice this spring: in Richmond, Ind., April 21-24 during the Cross-Cultural Consultation and Celebration, and via conference call May 9.
The April meeting provided a time to learn about cross-cultural efforts being made on an independent basis throughout the denomination and to discuss barriers that prevent the Church of the Brethren from being more successful in achieving John's vision of the church found in Revelation 7:9. Discussion centered on recommendations in Annual Conference statements and their implementation, current and previous denominational staff and offices that supported ethnic and intercultural ministries, a review of conversations with denominational and district staff and church members, and a denominational resources list.
In a listening session with the Cross-Cultural Consultation, the committee received information on the barriers participants have found in moving forward with intercultural ministries. "The committee heard painful stories on the lack of action at all levels of the denomination, the continuing presence of prejudice and racism within the church, and poor perception and preparation for evangelism and church leadership," Monn reported. The committee also listened to discussion between participants in the consultation and Bethany Theological Seminary on multicultural preparation in seminary education, and spent time with members of the Cross-Cultural Steering Committee.
To continue gathering information from across the denomination on the barriers to an intercultural church and actions to overcome them, the committee has developed a questionnaire be sent to districts for dissemination to all congregations. Work is being done to translate the questionnaire into Spanish, Haitian, and Korean. The questionnaire will be posted at www.brethren.org/ac/multiethnic.htm. The website will feature updated contact information for committee members as well.
Committee members also will contact the following ethnic groups with no representation on the committee, in the course of faithfully completing the work charged to them by the 2004 Annual Conference: Korean, Native American, Haitian, and Arab.
In the conference call, the committee made plans for a listening session on Saturday, July 2, at the 2005 Annual Conference in Peoria, Ill. The committee will ask the Conference for an additional year to complete its work.
Committee members are Darla Kay Bowman Deardorff of Peace Covenant Fellowship in Durham, N.C.; Ruben DeOleo of Maranatha Multicultural Fellowship in Lancaster, Pa.; Thomas Dowdy of Imperial Heights Church of the Brethren in Los Angeles, Calif.; Nadine L. Monn of Germantown (Pa.) Church of the Brethren; Neemita Pandya of Naperville (Ill.) Church of the Brethren; Gilbert Romero of Bella Vista Church of the Brethren in Los Angeles, Calif.; chair Asha Solanky of West Richmond (Va.) Church of the Brethren; and Glenn Hatfield, ex officio representative from the American Baptist Churches USA. Hatfield pastored a New Jersey congregation with members from 23 nations, during the period when the congregation began an intentional effort to be more multicultural.
Source: 05/25/2005 Newsline
top
The Annual Conference Intercultural Study Committee has met twice this spring: in Richmond, Ind., April 21-24 during the Cross-Cultural Consultation and Celebration, and via conference call May 9.
The April meeting provided a time to learn about cross-cultural efforts being made on an independent basis throughout the denomination and to discuss barriers that prevent the Church of the Brethren from being more successful in achieving John's vision of the church found in Revelation 7:9. Discussion centered on recommendations in Annual Conference statements and their implementation, current and previous denominational staff and offices that supported ethnic and intercultural ministries, a review of conversations with denominational and district staff and church members, and a denominational resources list.
In a listening session with the Cross-Cultural Consultation, the committee received information on the barriers participants have found in moving forward with intercultural ministries. "The committee heard painful stories on the lack of action at all levels of the denomination, the continuing presence of prejudice and racism within the church, and poor perception and preparation for evangelism and church leadership," Monn reported. The committee also listened to discussion between participants in the consultation and Bethany Theological Seminary on multicultural preparation in seminary education, and spent time with members of the Cross-Cultural Steering Committee.
To continue gathering information from across the denomination on the barriers to an intercultural church and actions to overcome them, the committee has developed a questionnaire be sent to districts for dissemination to all congregations. Work is being done to translate the questionnaire into Spanish, Haitian, and Korean. The questionnaire will be posted at www.brethren.org/ac/multiethnic.htm. The website will feature updated contact information for committee members as well.
Committee members also will contact the following ethnic groups with no representation on the committee, in the course of faithfully completing the work charged to them by the 2004 Annual Conference: Korean, Native American, Haitian, and Arab.
In the conference call, the committee made plans for a listening session on Saturday, July 2, at the 2005 Annual Conference in Peoria, Ill. The committee will ask the Conference for an additional year to complete its work.
Committee members are Darla Kay Bowman Deardorff of Peace Covenant Fellowship in Durham, N.C.; Ruben DeOleo of Maranatha Multicultural Fellowship in Lancaster, Pa.; Thomas Dowdy of Imperial Heights Church of the Brethren in Los Angeles, Calif.; Nadine L. Monn of Germantown (Pa.) Church of the Brethren; Neemita Pandya of Naperville (Ill.) Church of the Brethren; Gilbert Romero of Bella Vista Church of the Brethren in Los Angeles, Calif.; chair Asha Solanky of West Richmond (Va.) Church of the Brethren; and Glenn Hatfield, ex officio representative from the American Baptist Churches USA. Hatfield pastored a New Jersey congregation with members from 23 nations, during the period when the congregation began an intentional effort to be more multicultural.
Source: 05/25/2005 Newsline
top
Emergency Disaster Fund gives $20,000 in two grants.
The General Board's Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF) has given $20,000 for a flood recovery program in Ohio and work following spring storms in the Northeast and South.
A grant of $15,000 supports a new Church of the Brethren Disaster Response project in Belmont County, Ohio. The area has been struck repeatedly by severe flooding over the past year. Dozens of homes have been destroyed and 100 heavily damaged. The project begins in June.
A grant of $5,000 supports a Church World Service appeal for severe storm damage and flooding in several states in the Northeast and South. The funds will be used for material resource shipments, seed grants, and support of local longterm recovery efforts.
Source: 05/25/2005 Newsline
top
The General Board's Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF) has given $20,000 for a flood recovery program in Ohio and work following spring storms in the Northeast and South.
A grant of $15,000 supports a new Church of the Brethren Disaster Response project in Belmont County, Ohio. The area has been struck repeatedly by severe flooding over the past year. Dozens of homes have been destroyed and 100 heavily damaged. The project begins in June.
A grant of $5,000 supports a Church World Service appeal for severe storm damage and flooding in several states in the Northeast and South. The funds will be used for material resource shipments, seed grants, and support of local longterm recovery efforts.
Source: 05/25/2005 Newsline
top
Disaster Child Care trains project managers, critical response volunteers.
A Disaster Child Care (DCC) Level II Leadership Seminar was held at the New Windsor (Md.) Conference Center on April 25-27. A DCC Critical Response Child Care (CRC) orientation was held at the Red Cross chapter in Little Rock, Ark., on May 2. DCC is a program of the General Board.
Potential and experienced disaster project managers and a selected group of CRC team administrators were involved in the leadership seminar. Leadership was provided by staff Helen Stonesifer and Roy Winter, and several experienced project managers. "This event was a huge success," Stonesifer reported. Thirty-one volunteers participated from across the country. A highlight of the training was a tour of the American Red Cross National Headquarters in Washington, D.C.
The CRC orientation was led by Stonesifer and Jean Myers. Following the orientation, volunteers participated in a four-day American Red Cross Critical Response Team training at the Clara Barton Center for Domestic Preparedness in Pine Bluff, Ark. "At the completion of this training, all DCC CRC team members will have been prepared to become part of the American Red Cross Critical Response Team which responds to aviation incidents and/or mass casualty disasters," Stonesifer said.
For more information about DCC see www.brethren.org/genbd/ersm/dcc.htm.
Source: 05/25/2005 Newsline
top
A Disaster Child Care (DCC) Level II Leadership Seminar was held at the New Windsor (Md.) Conference Center on April 25-27. A DCC Critical Response Child Care (CRC) orientation was held at the Red Cross chapter in Little Rock, Ark., on May 2. DCC is a program of the General Board.
Potential and experienced disaster project managers and a selected group of CRC team administrators were involved in the leadership seminar. Leadership was provided by staff Helen Stonesifer and Roy Winter, and several experienced project managers. "This event was a huge success," Stonesifer reported. Thirty-one volunteers participated from across the country. A highlight of the training was a tour of the American Red Cross National Headquarters in Washington, D.C.
The CRC orientation was led by Stonesifer and Jean Myers. Following the orientation, volunteers participated in a four-day American Red Cross Critical Response Team training at the Clara Barton Center for Domestic Preparedness in Pine Bluff, Ark. "At the completion of this training, all DCC CRC team members will have been prepared to become part of the American Red Cross Critical Response Team which responds to aviation incidents and/or mass casualty disasters," Stonesifer said.
For more information about DCC see www.brethren.org/genbd/ersm/dcc.htm.
Source: 05/25/2005 Newsline
top
Brethren bits: Personnel, action alert, and more.
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- Carol Yeazell has been named interim fulltime coordinator for the General Board's Congregational Life Team (CLT) Area 3. She has been part-time CLT staff for Area 3, which includes the districts of Atlantic Southeast, Shenandoah, Southeastern, Virlina, and West Marva. Her new toll-free number is 800-244-5896.
- The General Board is welcoming three young adult volunteers. Reid Merryman of Prince of Peace Church of the Brethren in South Bend, Ind., will work with the Youth and Young Adult Ministries Office as a summer workcamp assistant. Brethren Volunteer Service worker Emily Tyler of McPherson (Kan.) Church of the Brethren, begins June 1 as one of three coordinators of National Youth Conference 2006. Hannah Edwards, a Ministry Summer Service worker from Jackson Park Church of the Brethren in Jonesborough, Tenn., will serve half-time in General Board communications and half-time at Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin, Ill.
- Pacific Southwest District is seeking a salaried, part-time director for its Center for Brethren Studies. The director will work with Training in Ministry (TRIM) students and licensed ministers, work to meet the needs of students from varied ethnic and linguistic backgrounds, work on development of an Academy Certified Training School (ACTS) program in coordination with Bethany Theological Seminary, and coordinate continuing education for clergy and laity. Qualifications include a Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience, good communication skills with Spanish ability a plus, experience in education, familiarity with ministry training needs, and values congruent with the mission and spirit of the Church of the Brethren. Apply by writing or e-mail to Bryan Boyer, District Executive Minister, Pacific Southwest District, Box 219, La Verne, CA 91750-0219; e-mail districtexecutive@pswdcob.org; 909-392-4052.
- The General Board's Brethren Witness/Washington Office is encouraging Brethren to contact their representatives in Congress to support the Woolsey Amendment calling for an exit strategy from Iraq. The House of Representatives will consider this amendment to the Defense Authorization Bill 2006 today or tomorrow, May 25 or 26. "Debate of this amendment is critical as members of Congress will be challenged to consider their conscience, and their action, in relation to an exit strategy from US engagement in Iraq," the office said in an Action Alert. Amendment 26, "Withdrawal of United States Armed Forces from Iraq," is presented by Rep. Lynn Woolsey, Democrat from California. It calls on the president to develop a plan to provide for the withdrawal of armed forces from Iraq. For more information call the Brethren Witness/Washington Office at 800-785-3246 or e-mail washington_office_gb@brethren.org.
- Searching for a different volunteer opportunity at Annual Conference this year? Volunteer to provide English to Spanish translation, helping Brethren from Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Hispanic congregations in the US enjoy a fuller understanding of business sessions and worship services. Nadine L. Monn will coordinate the translators pool. To volunteer as a translator, and for information about the resources that will be available at the translators' table, call Monn at 215-844-1534 or e-mail nadine_monn@yahoo.com.
- The Gather 'Round writer application deadline has been extended, due to rescheduling of the annual writers' conference. The new application deadline for freelance writers interested in contributing to the second curriculum year is July 29. The writers' conference is now tentatively scheduled for the week of Jan. 8, 2006. Application packets are still available from Anna Speicher, project director, at gatherround@brethren.org. See www.gatherround.org for more information about the curriculum.
- Stan Noffsinger, general secretary of the General Board, plans to join other heads of faith communities in a first-ever Interfaith Convocation on Hunger at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., on June 6. The event will include a call for the president and members of Congress to join with Christians, Jews, Muslims, and people of other faiths in a new national commitment to end hunger. The convocation takes place on the eve of National Hunger Awareness Day and culminates a gathering titled "One Table, Many Voices: A Mobilization to End Poverty and Hunger" organized by Bread for the World and others.
- Walt Wiltschek, editor of the Church of the Brethren magazine "Messenger," received an award of excellence from the Associated Church Press for his Nov. 2004 editorial, "Politics and Polarization." He won this top award in the category of editorial and opinion for magazines. Second place went to "The Christian Century." The judge wrote, "This was an extremely effective commentary.... It would be nice if we had more reasoned and civil voices such as his in the expanding media world today." "Messenger" and designer Paul Stocksdale also received an award of merit (second place) for the Dec. 2004 cover and an honorable mention for overall design of the Jan./Feb. 2004 issue.
- The General Board's Stewardship of Property Committee will meet May 31-June 2 at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., and June 2-4 at the General Offices in Elgin, Ill. The committee has set aside time to meet with board employees, longterm volunteers, annual conference agency executives, and representatives from Church World Service, Lutheran World Relief, Interchurch Medical Assistance, and the Mid-Atlantic District Office to discuss the board's Elgin and New Windsor properties and to answer questions.
- The Brethren Historical Library and Archives is trying to contact the following people for a publication project: Chester Burns, Duane Conrad, Bruce Dickey, Willis Kohli, David Koser, Roger May, Gordon Moore, Roland Nobles, Sam Petre, John Warner, and Rodney West. If you know how to contact any of these people, please e-mail Kenneth Shaffer at kshaffer_gb@brethren.org or call 800-323-8039 ext. 294, or write to the Brethren Historical Library and Archives, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120.
- "Hurry, there's a BVSer waiting for you!" says the Brethren Volunteer Service office. BVS is looking for individuals, Sunday school classes, churches, or families to help support volunteers. Through the Adopt-A-BVSer program, you can be matched up with a volunteer in the field. Adopting can mean anything from letter writing to sending care packages, sending e-mail or making a phone call, and is a way to support those serving and to connect them to the wider denomination. For more information call Elizabeth Waas Smith at 800-323-8039 ext. 418 or e-mail ewaassmith_gb@brethren.org.
- On May 14, Daleville (Va.) Church of the Brethren hosted a Global Women's Project benefit concert with Brethren folk singer Peg Lehman. The Global Women's Project was created in 1978 and seeks to educate Brethren about the global poverty, oppression, and injustice that women suffer. The project advocates a reduction in consumption and the collection of a self-imposed "luxury tax," which is used to fund women's development projects. Current grants made by the project are funding a New Sudan Council of Churches soap-making project in Tambura, Sudan; a rural health clinic in Mulukuku, Nicaragua; a sewing machine training program in El Salvador; and an education center in Uganda.
- Lower Miami Church of the Brethren in Dayton, Ohio will celebrate its 200th anniversary on June 5, 12, and 19. The congregation is known in Southern Ohio District as the "mother church," the first Brethren church west of the Miami River. For more information call 937-263-5111.
- Pleasant Valley Church of the Brethren in Weyers Cave, Va., celebrated its 151st year on Sunday May 22 with a Brethren Heritage Day. The guest speaker was Earl Fike Jr. of Bridgewater, Va. The day included a covered dish picnic and a "Remember When" program.
- "Nourishing the Soul" is the theme for the Church of the Brethren Clergywomen's Retreat Nov. 14-17 at Timber-Lee Christian Center in East Troy, Wis. Jan Richardson will be the keynote speaker. Cost including registration, room, and board is $175, or $200 after June 1. Cost for fulltime seminary and TRIM students is $100, or $125 after June 1. The Pacific Southwest District Board recently voted to pay the registration fee for all licensed and ordained women in the district to attend the retreat, reports Myrna Long Wheeler, who is on the planning committee. "Considering the added cost for west coast women to travel to Wisconsin, this is a great incentive to women clergy and a great supportive response." The retreat is sponsored by the General Board's Ministry Office. A brochure with registration information is available--call 800-323-8039 ext. 207 or e-mail mparis_gb@brethren.org.
- Thousands of graduates from more than 100 colleges and universities across the nation are taking the Graduation Pledge and pinning a small green ribbon on their gowns at commencement this year, according to a release from Manchester College. The college has hosted the Graduation Pledge Alliance since 1996, under the direction of professor Neil J. Wollman. The pledge began at Humboldt State University in California in 1987. Seniors take the pledge to declare that in their future jobs their concerns extend beyond how they personally benefit. The pledge reads, "I pledge to explore and take into account the social and environmental consequences of any job I consider and will try to improve these aspects of any organizations for which I work." See www.graduationpledge.org or call Wollman at 260-982-5346 or e-mail njwollman@manchester.edu.
- More than 250 pastors and church leaders attended the New Life Ministries Leadership Training Event April 26 in Telford, Pa. "Renewing the Church--Reclaiming the Gospel" featured nationally known authors and speakers Brian McLaren and Tony Campolo. McLaren challenged the group to help people experience God by helping them learn to pray. Campolo encouraged those in attendance to "declare the Good News--that God is at work in this world, changing the world from what it is into what it ought to be." Workshops included several led by Brethren: "Hospitality and the Vital Church" by Fred Bernhard, "Reaching Young Adults" led by Steve Clapp, "Hosting an Invite-a-Friend Sunday" led by S. Joan Hershey, and "Keys to Positive Change" led by Paul Mundey. For more information see www.NewLifeMinistries-NLM.org or call director Kristen Leverton Helbert at 800-774-3360.
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Growing Faithful Disciples resource now available to congregations.
A new Brethren resource for congregations, called "Growing Faithful Disciples," has been distributed to districts following a two-year pilot run in Middle Pennsylvania District. The resource on CD is by a broad range of writers, including many Brethren, and was developed jointly by staff of Middle Pennsylvania and Congregational Life Team (CLT) Ministries of the General Board.
The resource is available to Brethren congregations at no cost. "Each district may choose to distribute and supplement the material...in the fashion that best serves specific needs and interests," reports Jan Glass King, CLT coordinator for Area 1.
Developed from an idea birthed at a Middle Pennsylvania District Conference, CLT staff responded by creating and compiling resources to help shape and strengthen faithful discipleship. Designed around four areas of discipleship--worship, community, stewardship of God's grace, and missions/outreach--the material includes Bible studies, resources for children and youth, small group studies, tools for implementation, and hands-on approaches for congregations.
"We feel this material, written by a broad spectrum of Anabaptist writers, has some unique distinctions which sets it apart from other commercially published resources," King said. "Because faithful discipleship is an ongoing process, we developed this resource to be a guide for a balanced approach to teaching and modeling faithful living within the community."
Each unit includes a historical perspective, Anabaptist in nature. Congregational process pieces address topics such as worship teams, creating safe spaces in a congregation, building and maintaining small groups, spiritual gifts discernment, the purpose and vision of congregations, and the "missional church" approach. Resources include music for congregations and choirs, Internet resources, ways to be involved in mission, and resources for inviting and welcoming new people. Spiritual formation pieces explore prayer, spiritual disciplines, mentor-driven ministry, and children's resources. Writers include current and former faculty at Bethany Theological Seminary, Brethren pastors, and General Board staff, among others.
"Growing Faithful Disciples was not written to be a quick fix but has the potential to be the beginning of an examination of congregational faithfulness in responding to the question: `How are we doing at fulfilling the purpose for which Christ calls us?'" King said. For a preview of the resource contact your district, call 888-411-4275, or e-mail jking_gb@brethren.org.
Source: 05/25/2005 Newsline
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A new Brethren resource for congregations, called "Growing Faithful Disciples," has been distributed to districts following a two-year pilot run in Middle Pennsylvania District. The resource on CD is by a broad range of writers, including many Brethren, and was developed jointly by staff of Middle Pennsylvania and Congregational Life Team (CLT) Ministries of the General Board.
The resource is available to Brethren congregations at no cost. "Each district may choose to distribute and supplement the material...in the fashion that best serves specific needs and interests," reports Jan Glass King, CLT coordinator for Area 1.
Developed from an idea birthed at a Middle Pennsylvania District Conference, CLT staff responded by creating and compiling resources to help shape and strengthen faithful discipleship. Designed around four areas of discipleship--worship, community, stewardship of God's grace, and missions/outreach--the material includes Bible studies, resources for children and youth, small group studies, tools for implementation, and hands-on approaches for congregations.
"We feel this material, written by a broad spectrum of Anabaptist writers, has some unique distinctions which sets it apart from other commercially published resources," King said. "Because faithful discipleship is an ongoing process, we developed this resource to be a guide for a balanced approach to teaching and modeling faithful living within the community."
Each unit includes a historical perspective, Anabaptist in nature. Congregational process pieces address topics such as worship teams, creating safe spaces in a congregation, building and maintaining small groups, spiritual gifts discernment, the purpose and vision of congregations, and the "missional church" approach. Resources include music for congregations and choirs, Internet resources, ways to be involved in mission, and resources for inviting and welcoming new people. Spiritual formation pieces explore prayer, spiritual disciplines, mentor-driven ministry, and children's resources. Writers include current and former faculty at Bethany Theological Seminary, Brethren pastors, and General Board staff, among others.
"Growing Faithful Disciples was not written to be a quick fix but has the potential to be the beginning of an examination of congregational faithfulness in responding to the question: `How are we doing at fulfilling the purpose for which Christ calls us?'" King said. For a preview of the resource contact your district, call 888-411-4275, or e-mail jking_gb@brethren.org.
Source: 05/25/2005 Newsline
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Credits
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board, on every other Wednesday with other editions as needed. Newsline stories may be reprinted provided that Newsline is cited as the source. Guillermo Encarnacion, Jacki Hartley, Kristen Leverton Helbert, Janice Glass King, Jon Kobel, Nadine L. Monn, Marcia Shetler, Helen Stonesifer, and Roy Winter contributed to this report.
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board, on every other Wednesday with other editions as needed. Newsline stories may be reprinted provided that Newsline is cited as the source. Guillermo Encarnacion, Jacki Hartley, Kristen Leverton Helbert, Janice Glass King, Jon Kobel, Nadine L. Monn, Marcia Shetler, Helen Stonesifer, and Roy Winter contributed to this report.
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