- Annual Conference theme will be 'TOGETHER: Exercising Daily in God.'
- Brethren attend anniversary commemorations in Hiroshima.
- Emergency Disaster Fund gives $97,000 for disaster aid.
- Southern Plains holds 39th District Conference.
- Western Plains District re-ignites its witness.
- McPherson College students lend helping hands.
- Brethren bits: Personnel, Annual Conference website, and more.
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
NEWS
Annual Conference theme will be 'TOGETHER: Exercising Daily in God.'
The Annual Conference Program and Arrangements Committee has announced the theme for the 2006 Conference in Des Moines, Iowa. The "TOGETHER: Conversations on Being the Church" event will be launched at Des Moines next summer, and so moderator Ronald D. Beachley suggested the theme, "TOGETHER: Exercising Daily in God."
Church of the Brethren congregations and individuals are invited to explore the theme scriptures and how they apply to our faith journey, reported Lerry Fogle, executive director of the Conference. Moderator Beachley will issue a challenge related to the theme each month preceding Conference. Those theme challenges will be available at www.brethren.org/ac/.
The complete theme statement from the moderator follows:
"Discipline was a hallmark of the early faith community. It appeared to be a natural part of commitment, because of the persecution faced by Jesus' followers. Dedication and commitment seem to be lacking from our lives and faith vocabulary today. The church needs to be encouraged and challenged to a stronger commitment. This will be significant for the denomination as we begin the conversation about being the church during the next year.
"The scriptures, especially Paul's letters, remind us often of the merit and blessings of spiritual discipline. Certainly, the example of Jesus is the model for us to imitate. The early faith community was persecuted and that appeared to produce discipline. The church needs to be challenged to value spiritual discipline. Discipline could strengthen our commitment and dedication to the Lord and the faith community. We need to be reminded over and over again of the value and blessings of spiritual discipline and sharing Christ's love with others.
"Traveling and listening during this past year has been a new adventure. I have encountered many dedicated persons in our denomination. However, I have heard some of these same persons lament the lack of commitment and outreach in the local faith communities.
"Therefore, I'm going to challenge us to a new level of discipline and commitment. Part of the discipline will be to read a chapter a day in the New Testament. Secondly, pray daily for an individual who needs to know Christ as Lord and Savior. I would also encourage you to join a cell group in your congregation to pray with on a regular basis.
"I'm proposing the theme, TOGETHER: EXERCISE DAILY IN GOD, as the theme for the 2006 Annual Conference, using 1 Timothy 4:6-8 as the primary text. The actual wording comes from 'The Message.'"
Source: 08/31/2005 Newsline
top
The Annual Conference Program and Arrangements Committee has announced the theme for the 2006 Conference in Des Moines, Iowa. The "TOGETHER: Conversations on Being the Church" event will be launched at Des Moines next summer, and so moderator Ronald D. Beachley suggested the theme, "TOGETHER: Exercising Daily in God."
Church of the Brethren congregations and individuals are invited to explore the theme scriptures and how they apply to our faith journey, reported Lerry Fogle, executive director of the Conference. Moderator Beachley will issue a challenge related to the theme each month preceding Conference. Those theme challenges will be available at www.brethren.org/ac/.
The complete theme statement from the moderator follows:
"Discipline was a hallmark of the early faith community. It appeared to be a natural part of commitment, because of the persecution faced by Jesus' followers. Dedication and commitment seem to be lacking from our lives and faith vocabulary today. The church needs to be encouraged and challenged to a stronger commitment. This will be significant for the denomination as we begin the conversation about being the church during the next year.
"The scriptures, especially Paul's letters, remind us often of the merit and blessings of spiritual discipline. Certainly, the example of Jesus is the model for us to imitate. The early faith community was persecuted and that appeared to produce discipline. The church needs to be challenged to value spiritual discipline. Discipline could strengthen our commitment and dedication to the Lord and the faith community. We need to be reminded over and over again of the value and blessings of spiritual discipline and sharing Christ's love with others.
"Traveling and listening during this past year has been a new adventure. I have encountered many dedicated persons in our denomination. However, I have heard some of these same persons lament the lack of commitment and outreach in the local faith communities.
"Therefore, I'm going to challenge us to a new level of discipline and commitment. Part of the discipline will be to read a chapter a day in the New Testament. Secondly, pray daily for an individual who needs to know Christ as Lord and Savior. I would also encourage you to join a cell group in your congregation to pray with on a regular basis.
"I'm proposing the theme, TOGETHER: EXERCISE DAILY IN GOD, as the theme for the 2006 Annual Conference, using 1 Timothy 4:6-8 as the primary text. The actual wording comes from 'The Message.'"
Source: 08/31/2005 Newsline
top
Brethren attend anniversary commemorations in Hiroshima.
Garlands of folded paper cranes were everywhere at the Peace Park in Hiroshima, Japan, as people from around the world converged there for the ceremony commemorating the 60th anniversary of the atomic bombing on Aug. 6, 1945.
There were also cranes for another event in Hiroshima--a 40th anniversary celebration of the World Friendship Center (WFC). The decorations for that event included more than 1,200 cranes folded a month earlier by children and adults attending the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference in Peoria, Ill.
The Brethren have been connected to the WFC through a steady supply of volunteer directors serving through Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS). Brethren also have been heavily involved in the American Committee of the WFC, currently chaired by Mary Ann Albert of Warsaw, Ind.
"The World Friendship Center has survived 40 years," said WFC board member Michiko Yamane, who emceed the welcome gathering on Aug. 5. "It's a miracle. Maybe it is God's plan."
Greetings from the Church of the Brethren were brought by BVS director Dan McFadden, who presented a resolution from the General Board: "On the occasion of the fortieth anniversary of the World Friendship Center in Hiroshima, the Church of the Brethren General Board commends the center for its tireless efforts to work for peace, share stories about the personal suffering caused by nuclear weapons, and build friendships across borders. We in the Church of the Brethren recall our many years of partnership with the center, particularly through Brethren Volunteer Service. We celebrate the profound, interfaith witness of the center that has been born from the ashes of Hiroshima. We honor the past and express hope for the future by reaffirming, with you, our commitment to creating a world free from both nuclear weapons and war."
McFadden also presented a gift from the General Board, a new wall map to replace a fading one that is used to identify the homes of the many international visitors who pass through the center. As a companion gift, the American Committee contributed funds for mounting and framing the map.
Guests at the several-day event included a number of former WFC directors: Mary Ann Albert, Joel and Bev Eikenberry, David and Evie Bertsche, Liz Bauer, and Ed Dougherty and Beth Bentley. Current directors are Don and Pauline Hess of Massanutten, Va., who began a two-year BVS term in May. While many directors have served through BVS, staff also have come from the Mennonite and Quaker traditions.
Those participating in the WFC anniversary attended the city's 60th anniversary commemoration and traditional lantern-floating on the river, heard the stories of survivors of the bomb, visited the Peace Museum, and toured sites significant to the history of the center.
The World Friendship Center was founded in 1964 by Barbara Reynolds, a Quaker woman from the US, and Tomin Harada, a physician in Hiroshima.
Source: 08/31/2005 Newsline
top
Garlands of folded paper cranes were everywhere at the Peace Park in Hiroshima, Japan, as people from around the world converged there for the ceremony commemorating the 60th anniversary of the atomic bombing on Aug. 6, 1945.
There were also cranes for another event in Hiroshima--a 40th anniversary celebration of the World Friendship Center (WFC). The decorations for that event included more than 1,200 cranes folded a month earlier by children and adults attending the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference in Peoria, Ill.
The Brethren have been connected to the WFC through a steady supply of volunteer directors serving through Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS). Brethren also have been heavily involved in the American Committee of the WFC, currently chaired by Mary Ann Albert of Warsaw, Ind.
"The World Friendship Center has survived 40 years," said WFC board member Michiko Yamane, who emceed the welcome gathering on Aug. 5. "It's a miracle. Maybe it is God's plan."
Greetings from the Church of the Brethren were brought by BVS director Dan McFadden, who presented a resolution from the General Board: "On the occasion of the fortieth anniversary of the World Friendship Center in Hiroshima, the Church of the Brethren General Board commends the center for its tireless efforts to work for peace, share stories about the personal suffering caused by nuclear weapons, and build friendships across borders. We in the Church of the Brethren recall our many years of partnership with the center, particularly through Brethren Volunteer Service. We celebrate the profound, interfaith witness of the center that has been born from the ashes of Hiroshima. We honor the past and express hope for the future by reaffirming, with you, our commitment to creating a world free from both nuclear weapons and war."
McFadden also presented a gift from the General Board, a new wall map to replace a fading one that is used to identify the homes of the many international visitors who pass through the center. As a companion gift, the American Committee contributed funds for mounting and framing the map.
Guests at the several-day event included a number of former WFC directors: Mary Ann Albert, Joel and Bev Eikenberry, David and Evie Bertsche, Liz Bauer, and Ed Dougherty and Beth Bentley. Current directors are Don and Pauline Hess of Massanutten, Va., who began a two-year BVS term in May. While many directors have served through BVS, staff also have come from the Mennonite and Quaker traditions.
Those participating in the WFC anniversary attended the city's 60th anniversary commemoration and traditional lantern-floating on the river, heard the stories of survivors of the bomb, visited the Peace Museum, and toured sites significant to the history of the center.
The World Friendship Center was founded in 1964 by Barbara Reynolds, a Quaker woman from the US, and Tomin Harada, a physician in Hiroshima.
Source: 08/31/2005 Newsline
top
Emergency Disaster Fund gives $97,000 for disaster aid.
Eight allocations from the General Board's Emergency Disaster Fund, totaling $97,000, have been made to help those affected by natural and man-made disasters in Afghanistan and Pakistan; Ethiopia; Niger; Darfur, Sudan; India; Cuba; and following storms in Wyoming and the southern US states. (For a report on an EDF grant responding to Hurricane Katrina, see today's Newsline Special Report: Hurricane Katrina.)
An allocation of $40,000 has been made for Afghanistan and Pakistan, where thousands of homes, crops, and livestock have been destroyed in severe flooding. The Brethren grant will support a Church World Service (CWS) Emergency Response Program appeal for emergency shelter, food, and medicine.
An allocation of $20,000 responds to a CWS appeal for food security in Ethiopia, where drought and economic decline have put 3.8 million people at risk of starvation. The funds will assist CWS partners implement food relief, agricultural rehabilitation, medical assistance, and veterinary care for livestock.
A grant of $10,000 to Niger assists Swiss Interchurch Aid and Lutheran World Relief, who are working with people suffering critical malnutrition and starvation. The money, funded through CWS, will help provide emergency food, health services, and livestock feeding.
The EDF is responding to the situation of displaced people from Darfur, Sudan, who have taken refuge in Chad with an allocation of $8,000. Given through CWS, the grant will help build a new refugee camp for 20,000 people, expand three existing camps, and assist with water and sanitation projects and psycho-social support.
A grant of $7,500 supports a CWS appeal in the wake of two hurricanes in the southern states of the US. The money will help pay for local community efforts to respond to the storms as well as shipments of blankets and Gift of the Heart disaster relief kits.
An allocation of $5,000 has been made to a CWS appeal for severe flooding in the Maharashtra area of India. The heaviest rain ever recorded in Indian history fell in Mumbai, resulting in over 1,000 deaths and destruction of homes, crops, and livestock. The funds are providing immediate food relief along with basic household and hygiene items.
Another grant of $5,000 responds to a CWS appeal in the wake of Hurricane Dennis in Cuba. At least 120,000 homes were severely damaged and 50,000 people are homeless. The money will assist with immediate needs of food, housing construction and repair, household items, and psychosocial programs.
An allocation of $1,500 has been made for a seed-money grant to a local recovery committee in Wright, Wyo., after a tornado devastated the town. Ninety-one mobile homes were destroyed and two lives lost in the low-income coal-mining community. The money also will help deploy CWS staff to the area for training and capacity building, and support a shipment of blankets.
Source: 08/31/2005 Newsline
top
Eight allocations from the General Board's Emergency Disaster Fund, totaling $97,000, have been made to help those affected by natural and man-made disasters in Afghanistan and Pakistan; Ethiopia; Niger; Darfur, Sudan; India; Cuba; and following storms in Wyoming and the southern US states. (For a report on an EDF grant responding to Hurricane Katrina, see today's Newsline Special Report: Hurricane Katrina.)
An allocation of $40,000 has been made for Afghanistan and Pakistan, where thousands of homes, crops, and livestock have been destroyed in severe flooding. The Brethren grant will support a Church World Service (CWS) Emergency Response Program appeal for emergency shelter, food, and medicine.
An allocation of $20,000 responds to a CWS appeal for food security in Ethiopia, where drought and economic decline have put 3.8 million people at risk of starvation. The funds will assist CWS partners implement food relief, agricultural rehabilitation, medical assistance, and veterinary care for livestock.
A grant of $10,000 to Niger assists Swiss Interchurch Aid and Lutheran World Relief, who are working with people suffering critical malnutrition and starvation. The money, funded through CWS, will help provide emergency food, health services, and livestock feeding.
The EDF is responding to the situation of displaced people from Darfur, Sudan, who have taken refuge in Chad with an allocation of $8,000. Given through CWS, the grant will help build a new refugee camp for 20,000 people, expand three existing camps, and assist with water and sanitation projects and psycho-social support.
A grant of $7,500 supports a CWS appeal in the wake of two hurricanes in the southern states of the US. The money will help pay for local community efforts to respond to the storms as well as shipments of blankets and Gift of the Heart disaster relief kits.
An allocation of $5,000 has been made to a CWS appeal for severe flooding in the Maharashtra area of India. The heaviest rain ever recorded in Indian history fell in Mumbai, resulting in over 1,000 deaths and destruction of homes, crops, and livestock. The funds are providing immediate food relief along with basic household and hygiene items.
Another grant of $5,000 responds to a CWS appeal in the wake of Hurricane Dennis in Cuba. At least 120,000 homes were severely damaged and 50,000 people are homeless. The money will assist with immediate needs of food, housing construction and repair, household items, and psychosocial programs.
An allocation of $1,500 has been made for a seed-money grant to a local recovery committee in Wright, Wyo., after a tornado devastated the town. Ninety-one mobile homes were destroyed and two lives lost in the low-income coal-mining community. The money also will help deploy CWS staff to the area for training and capacity building, and support a shipment of blankets.
Source: 08/31/2005 Newsline
top
Southern Plains holds 39th District Conference.
The 39th District Conference of the Southern Plains District was held July 28-30 at Big Creek Church of the Brethren in Cushing, Okla. Moderator Dean Stump presided. A total of 20 delegates were seated, an increase from 16 last year.
Pre-conference highlights were a pastor's training event led by Jonathan Shively, director of the Brethren Academy, focusing on "Overcoming the Dark Side of Leadership" by Gary McIntosh and Samuel Rima. Ronald Beachley, moderator of Annual Conference, brought a compelling message at the conference opening worship Thursday evening. Shively brought three very challenging messages during conference as the main speaker.
District Board reports and actions included recognition of the Redevelopment Grant of $1,500 awarded to Family Faith Fellowship in Enid, Okla.; a decision to officially close the Enid Community Church of the Brethren; availability of the Growing Faithful Disciples resources to the churches; viewing the Outreach Packet video and distribution to the churches; and a decision to participate in the Together Conversations on Being the Church process. The board also learned that ordination reviews are near completion.
The Nurture Witness Commission voted to send a team from Falfurias to the Cross Cultural meeting. The commission also is working on a scrapbook of pictures to "put faces to the wonderful volunteers" involved in all the Nurture/Witness activities.
In other business the conference body received with appreciation a joint video report from the Annual Conference agencies, followed by brief reports from the two agencies assigned to report to the district this year. Bethany Theological Seminary with Shively highlighted the "Pilgrimage of Faith, A Future with Hope" l00th anniversary celebration; On Earth Peace with Bob Gross highlighted the work of the Ministry of Reconciliation. The annual auction benefitting Spring Lake Camp and Retreat Center brought $4467!!
The District Conference for 2006 will be at Roanoke (La.) Church of the Brethren. The conference elected Jack Graves as moderator and Jim Kelly as moderator-elect for 2006. Jackie Balmer is the Standing Committee delegate. George Brooks was elected to serve as board chair in a reorganization meeting.
"There is a special quality to our conference that is perhaps not found elsewhere," reported A. Joan Lowry, district executive minister. "Our special thanks to the Big Creek church for the hospitality and wonderful food, all the good humor, and deep love of the Lord that is always present."
Source: 08/31/2005 Newsline
top
The 39th District Conference of the Southern Plains District was held July 28-30 at Big Creek Church of the Brethren in Cushing, Okla. Moderator Dean Stump presided. A total of 20 delegates were seated, an increase from 16 last year.
Pre-conference highlights were a pastor's training event led by Jonathan Shively, director of the Brethren Academy, focusing on "Overcoming the Dark Side of Leadership" by Gary McIntosh and Samuel Rima. Ronald Beachley, moderator of Annual Conference, brought a compelling message at the conference opening worship Thursday evening. Shively brought three very challenging messages during conference as the main speaker.
District Board reports and actions included recognition of the Redevelopment Grant of $1,500 awarded to Family Faith Fellowship in Enid, Okla.; a decision to officially close the Enid Community Church of the Brethren; availability of the Growing Faithful Disciples resources to the churches; viewing the Outreach Packet video and distribution to the churches; and a decision to participate in the Together Conversations on Being the Church process. The board also learned that ordination reviews are near completion.
The Nurture Witness Commission voted to send a team from Falfurias to the Cross Cultural meeting. The commission also is working on a scrapbook of pictures to "put faces to the wonderful volunteers" involved in all the Nurture/Witness activities.
In other business the conference body received with appreciation a joint video report from the Annual Conference agencies, followed by brief reports from the two agencies assigned to report to the district this year. Bethany Theological Seminary with Shively highlighted the "Pilgrimage of Faith, A Future with Hope" l00th anniversary celebration; On Earth Peace with Bob Gross highlighted the work of the Ministry of Reconciliation. The annual auction benefitting Spring Lake Camp and Retreat Center brought $4467!!
The District Conference for 2006 will be at Roanoke (La.) Church of the Brethren. The conference elected Jack Graves as moderator and Jim Kelly as moderator-elect for 2006. Jackie Balmer is the Standing Committee delegate. George Brooks was elected to serve as board chair in a reorganization meeting.
"There is a special quality to our conference that is perhaps not found elsewhere," reported A. Joan Lowry, district executive minister. "Our special thanks to the Big Creek church for the hospitality and wonderful food, all the good humor, and deep love of the Lord that is always present."
Source: 08/31/2005 Newsline
top
Western Plains District re-ignites its witness.
Western Plains District Conference met Aug. 5-7 at Colorado State University in Pueblo for a weekend of fun, fellowship, business, and inspiration. More than 200 people attended from Colorado, Kansas, and Nebraska.
The theme, "Reigniting our Witness," grew out of the congregational renewal and transformation enterprise being launched at the Oct. 28-30 meeting called The Gathering, that invites congregations into a three-year covenant with the district. "Storytelling and faith sharing enhanced the spirit of anticipation and hope that is growing in the district," reported district co-executive minister Elsie Holderread. Sharing the campus facilities with approximately 100 military returnees from Iraq was an added opportunity for witness.
Moderator Parsram Venkatsammy, pastor of Ottawa (Kan.) Community Church of the Brethren, inspired the conference in his opening worship service. Jim Hardenbrook, past Annual Conference moderator, picked up on the theme and challenged the conference in his messages in Saturday evening and Sunday morning worship services. Stan Noffsinger, general secretary of the General Board, inspired and encouraged attendees at the minister/spouse dinner.
Twenty youth participated in the conference and activities led by Brethren Volunteer Service worker Nicole Suiters, as well as doing a service project at a pregnancy caring center. "The chair of the board for the center was so impressed with their work that she invited them to her house to swim when their work was completed!" said Holderread.
During the light business agenda, a 2006 budget was approved and new officers were elected. Two new church planters were recognized for their work. Pastors new to the district were introduced and Milestones in Ministry awards were given to 15 ordained ministers. Spirited bidding at the Projects Unlimited Auction raised $3,500 for mission projects. The pre-conference workshop and breakout sessions on vision and mission, vitality in smaller congregations, peace, the new Gather 'Round curriculum, and outdoor ministries were well attended.
Consecration of new officers and leaders followed the closing worship. LeRoy Weddle, an ordained minister from McPherson, Kan., will moderate the 2006 conference in McPherson July 28-30. David Smalley, pastor of Rochester Community Church of the Brethren in Topeka, Kan., is the moderator-elect.
Source: 08/31/2005 Newsline
top
Western Plains District Conference met Aug. 5-7 at Colorado State University in Pueblo for a weekend of fun, fellowship, business, and inspiration. More than 200 people attended from Colorado, Kansas, and Nebraska.
The theme, "Reigniting our Witness," grew out of the congregational renewal and transformation enterprise being launched at the Oct. 28-30 meeting called The Gathering, that invites congregations into a three-year covenant with the district. "Storytelling and faith sharing enhanced the spirit of anticipation and hope that is growing in the district," reported district co-executive minister Elsie Holderread. Sharing the campus facilities with approximately 100 military returnees from Iraq was an added opportunity for witness.
Moderator Parsram Venkatsammy, pastor of Ottawa (Kan.) Community Church of the Brethren, inspired the conference in his opening worship service. Jim Hardenbrook, past Annual Conference moderator, picked up on the theme and challenged the conference in his messages in Saturday evening and Sunday morning worship services. Stan Noffsinger, general secretary of the General Board, inspired and encouraged attendees at the minister/spouse dinner.
Twenty youth participated in the conference and activities led by Brethren Volunteer Service worker Nicole Suiters, as well as doing a service project at a pregnancy caring center. "The chair of the board for the center was so impressed with their work that she invited them to her house to swim when their work was completed!" said Holderread.
During the light business agenda, a 2006 budget was approved and new officers were elected. Two new church planters were recognized for their work. Pastors new to the district were introduced and Milestones in Ministry awards were given to 15 ordained ministers. Spirited bidding at the Projects Unlimited Auction raised $3,500 for mission projects. The pre-conference workshop and breakout sessions on vision and mission, vitality in smaller congregations, peace, the new Gather 'Round curriculum, and outdoor ministries were well attended.
Consecration of new officers and leaders followed the closing worship. LeRoy Weddle, an ordained minister from McPherson, Kan., will moderate the 2006 conference in McPherson July 28-30. David Smalley, pastor of Rochester Community Church of the Brethren in Topeka, Kan., is the moderator-elect.
Source: 08/31/2005 Newsline
top
McPherson College students lend helping hands.
McPherson (Kan.) College continues to encourage service and community responsibility in a program requiring all freshman and sophomore students to participate in seminar classes that provide various types of service projects on campus and in the community. The college reported in a recent release that lessons about service are well learned, as students from all classes continue to volunteer at many organizations including the Cedars Health Care Center, Good Beginnings Preschool, Meals on Wheels, the McPherson Humane Society, Multi-Community Diversified Services, the McPherson Public Library, and McPherson Family YMCA.
Two groups of McPherson College volunteers participated in a Habitat for Humanity project in Lindsborg, Kan. One group helped complete the foundation for a new house. Kevin Hadduck, director of academic development, felt that everyone benefitted from the project. "I believe that getting students out of their academic-sports-social routines and exposed, even if very briefly, to the needs and situations other people face can be very valuable," he said.
Two service trips were made during the fall break in October 2004. The first went to Hallam, Neb., where 13 students helped repair homes damaged in a tornado that devastated the town of 276 people in May 2004. "The town was a ghost town with only one or two houses left that looked livable, and only two or three trees still standing. It looked like a giant construction site. I wish we could have done more to help," said Seth Schoming, a sophomore from Davenport, Neb.
The second trip was to Heifer International in Arkansas, as part of the World Food Issues class taught by Al Dutrow, associate professor of Agriculture. Activities included cleaning animal facilities, paint branding sheep, harvesting and cleaning vegetables, fence construction, and landscape maintenance. One afternoon and night were spent in the Global Village, providing an opportunity to experience the living conditions and limited food resources of people served by Heifer International in various parts of the world.
Working through the General Board's Disaster Response program, eight students did hurricane relief work in Pensacola, Fla., during spring break this year. The work consisted mainly of dismantling unused and damaged naval base housing to salvage usable parts such as mirrors, fixtures, bricks, and wood. The salvage was sold and the proceeds were used to buy materials to help repair damaged homes. "Our trip to Pensacola was amazing," said Amy Porter, a sophomore from Quinter, Kan. "The destruction was horrific, but having the chance to help people who were so badly affected by this natural disaster gave us all a great feeling."
The tradition for service participation has contributed to the college's goal of creating whole persons. According to Tracy Stoddart, service coordinator, "the mission of McPherson College is alive and well." For more information call Stoddart at 620-241-0742 ext. 1707 or see www.mcpherson.edu.
Source: 08/31/2005 Newsline
top
McPherson (Kan.) College continues to encourage service and community responsibility in a program requiring all freshman and sophomore students to participate in seminar classes that provide various types of service projects on campus and in the community. The college reported in a recent release that lessons about service are well learned, as students from all classes continue to volunteer at many organizations including the Cedars Health Care Center, Good Beginnings Preschool, Meals on Wheels, the McPherson Humane Society, Multi-Community Diversified Services, the McPherson Public Library, and McPherson Family YMCA.
Two groups of McPherson College volunteers participated in a Habitat for Humanity project in Lindsborg, Kan. One group helped complete the foundation for a new house. Kevin Hadduck, director of academic development, felt that everyone benefitted from the project. "I believe that getting students out of their academic-sports-social routines and exposed, even if very briefly, to the needs and situations other people face can be very valuable," he said.
Two service trips were made during the fall break in October 2004. The first went to Hallam, Neb., where 13 students helped repair homes damaged in a tornado that devastated the town of 276 people in May 2004. "The town was a ghost town with only one or two houses left that looked livable, and only two or three trees still standing. It looked like a giant construction site. I wish we could have done more to help," said Seth Schoming, a sophomore from Davenport, Neb.
The second trip was to Heifer International in Arkansas, as part of the World Food Issues class taught by Al Dutrow, associate professor of Agriculture. Activities included cleaning animal facilities, paint branding sheep, harvesting and cleaning vegetables, fence construction, and landscape maintenance. One afternoon and night were spent in the Global Village, providing an opportunity to experience the living conditions and limited food resources of people served by Heifer International in various parts of the world.
Working through the General Board's Disaster Response program, eight students did hurricane relief work in Pensacola, Fla., during spring break this year. The work consisted mainly of dismantling unused and damaged naval base housing to salvage usable parts such as mirrors, fixtures, bricks, and wood. The salvage was sold and the proceeds were used to buy materials to help repair damaged homes. "Our trip to Pensacola was amazing," said Amy Porter, a sophomore from Quinter, Kan. "The destruction was horrific, but having the chance to help people who were so badly affected by this natural disaster gave us all a great feeling."
The tradition for service participation has contributed to the college's goal of creating whole persons. According to Tracy Stoddart, service coordinator, "the mission of McPherson College is alive and well." For more information call Stoddart at 620-241-0742 ext. 1707 or see www.mcpherson.edu.
Source: 08/31/2005 Newsline
top
Brethren bits: Personnel, Annual Conference website, and more.
top
- The General Board has announced that L. Eric Miller of Carol Stream, Ill., will begin Sept. 6 as customer service specialist in Brethren Press. He has worked 20 years with ChurchMart, a mail-order Christian bookstore, most recently serving as director of sales and marketing. He has a master's degree in management from National-Louis University and a bachelor's degree in Christian education from Messiah College.
- Significant revisions have been made to the Annual Conference website, following the Conference in Peoria, Ill. The changes include a new leadership structure, a biography of Conference moderator Ronald Beachley, updates to the Doing Church Business Study Committee page, and a complete list of all recorded Conferences. New features include the Conference's strategic plan mission, vision, values, and objectives; a moderator's challenge that will be updated monthly; and new pages for the Review and Evaluation Committee and the Brethren Medical Plan Study Committee. Go to www.brethren.org/ac.
- "Since 1985, annual workcamps to Nigeria have sought to build relationships between our churches and kindled faith through the experience of working together," reports the General Board's Global Mission Partnerships. "Literally hundreds of persons have participated over the years. If you have missed out on this rich experience, you have another opportunity!" The 2006 workcamp will be offered Jan. 16-Feb. 11. David Whitten, pastor of Moscow Church of the Brethren in Mount Solon, Va., and former mission staff to Nigeria, will lead the event. Projected cost is $2,200. Applications are due by Oct. 3. See www.brethren.org for more information. Contact Mary Munson, Global Mission Partnerships, at mmunson_gb@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 230.
- "Archeology and the New Testament," a Brethren Academy course offering two continuing education units for pastors, will be taught by Jonathan Reed, professor of New Testament and Christian Origins at the University of La Verne, Calif., and "an extraordinary archeologist," as one reviewer describes him. The two texts for the course, focusing on Jesus and Paul, were co-authored with John Dominic Crossan. The course will be held Sept. 22-25 in Boise, Idaho. Meals will be provided and also housing on a first-come, first-served basis. Course fee is $150. For more information contact the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership at 765-983-1824 or academy@bethanyseminary.edu.
- A New Church Development Retreat at Camp Bethel, Fincastle, Va., Sept. 23-24, will inspire, motivate, and encourage church planters and those interested in developing congregations for the Church of the Brethren from Maine to Florida. Although it began as an annual gathering for fellowship and sharing among new church core groups in Virginia and North Carolina, the retreat is currently sponsored by the New Church Development Committee of Shenandoah District and the Church Extension Committee of Virlina District. Leadership will be provided by denominational and district staff and church leaders. The event will include sharing stories, progress reports, and a commissioning service for new church planters. Cost including lodging and three meals will be $65. Registrations are due by Sept. 9. A brochure is available from Virlina District. For more information e-mail nuchurch@aol.com.
- Jeters Chapel Church of the Brethren, Vinton, Va., will celebrate its 130th anniversary on Sunday, Sept. 11, at 11 a.m. To contact the church call 540-890-7891.
- Living Faith Church of the Brethren in Concord, N.C., will be consecrated as a full congregation on Sept. 11. Jim Hardenbrook, past moderator of Annual Conference, will preach at a consecration service at 4 p.m. To contact the church call 704-782-3641.
- Papago Buttes Church of the Brethren in Scottsdale, Ariz., started meeting in a new building Aug. 7. The building, which the congregation says is the first "green" or environmentally conscious commercial building in Scottsdale, will be dedicated Sept. 18. Contact the church at 480-946-9822 or see www.pbcob.org.
- Idaho District will hold its District Conference Sept. 3-4 at Camp Wilbur Stover in New Meadows, Idaho. Stephen McPherson will be moderator.
- South/Central Indiana District gathers for District Conference Sept. 9-10 with moderator Ed Jackson, at Beech Grove Church of the Brethren in Pendleton, Ind.
- Manchester College has scheduled dedication of its new Science Center on Sept. 16 with a symposium of science presenters and tours; and inauguration of President Jo Young Switzer on Sept. 17 at 1:30 p.m. at Cordier Auditorium, following 9:30 a.m. morning worship at Manchester Church of the Brethren. For more information see www.manchester.edu/atimeforcelebration/index.htm.
- September events at Bridgewater (Va.) College include convocations and a fall spiritual focus. Convocations will take place at Cole Hall at 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 8 with Robert Stutman, former special agent in charge of New York's Drug Enforcement Administration, sponsored by the W. Harold Row Endowed Lecture Series; Sept. 15 with jazz drummer, percussionist, and composer Robert Jospe and Inner Rhythm; Sept. 22 with David Kaczynski, sponsored by W. Harold Row Endowed Lecture Series; Sept. 28 with NASA astronaut Patrick G. Forrester; and Sept. 29 with Robert Graetz, civil rights activist, sponsored by the Anna B. Mow Endowed Lecture Series. The Fall Spiritual Focus Sept. 27 will feature performance artist Al Staggs performing "A View from the Underside: The Legacy of Dietrich Bonhoeffer" at 9:30 a.m. at Cole Hall, and "Clarence Jordan and the God Movement" at 7:30 p.m. at Cole Hall. Events are free and open to the public. For more information call 800-476-4289 or see www.bridgewater.edu.
- "Together in Toronto: Claiming an Open Spirit," will be held July 27-30, 2006, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, sponsored by the Brethren and Mennonite Council for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Interests (BMC) along with two other faith-based groups, Affirm United's/Affirmer Ensemble and Lutherans Concerned/North America. It is the first-ever joint meeting of such groups from Brethren, Mennonite, Lutheran, and United Church of Canada backgrounds, according to a release from BMC. The conference will feature speakers, plenary sessions, worship, workshops, and entertainment. The three welcoming movements of Reconciling in Christ, the Supportive Congregations Network, and Affirming Ministries, as well as people from other faith traditions in North America will be welcomed. For more information contact co-chairs Ralph Carl Wushke at rwushke@interlog.com or Shannon Neufeldt at slneufeldt@yahoo.com.
top
Brethren Witness/Washington Office highlights upcoming peace events.
The General Board's Brethren Witness/Washington Office is encouraging Brethren participation in upcoming peace-related events: the Seeking Peace Conference, Sept. 8-11, in Indianapolis, Ind.; a March on Washington and three days of action against the war in Iraq, Sept. 24-26; the International Day of Peace on Sept. 21; and "Shift Your Space, Transform the World: Young Adults Connecting Ecumenically for Peace and Justice," Oct. 8-10 in Chicago.
The Seeking Peace Conference Sept. 8-11 will be a multi-faceted and intergenerational gathering providing opportunities to build mentoring relationships and explore practical and intellectual approaches to peace and peacemaking. Sponsored in part by the Brethren Witness/Washington Office and On Earth Peace, the conference will feature workshops and seminars, a large book table and resource center, applications for all careers, youth participation, fellowship, and biblical, dynamic worship. For more information contact the office at 800-785-3246 or visit www.plowsharesproject.org.
The days of action against the war in Iraq, Sept. 24-26, will begin with a march, rally, and festival Saturday, Sept. 24 in Washington D.C. Brethren are encouraged to gather at the Brethren Witness/Washington Office (337 North Carolina Ave. SE), at 10 a.m. to march together to join the larger rally at the Washington Monument (watch for the Church of the Brethren display table on the mall). Other scheduled events include an interfaith religious service and day of grassroots training on Sept. 25, and a large-scale grassroots lobbying day and mass nonviolent direct action and civil disobedience on Sept. 26. For more information call the Brethren Witness/Washington Office or visit www.brethren.org or www.unitedforpeace.org. Contact the office for assistance in scheduling lobbying visits on Sept. 26.
Brethren are invited to join people from around the world in observing the International Day of Peace on Sept. 21. The vision for this day is a global cease-fire, as well as lifting up the principles of nonviolence. The day was established by a United Nations resolution in 1981, with the intention of setting aside a specific time for the UN and its member states to promote the ideals of peace. "We understand that this is only a symbolic day, but one that can and should raise the consciousness of peacemakers in all places. The challenge is to transform this symbolic day into reality," commented Phil Jones, office director. The day is supported by the World Council of Churches (WCC) as the International Day of Prayer for Peace. Resources are available at www.overcomingviolence.org/peace2005. Brethren may commit to a peace vigil and record the information at www.idpvigil.com/commitment. Contact the Brethren Witness/Washington Office for more peace-related resources or assistance in vigil promotion.
"Shift Your Space Transform the World," Oct. 8-10, is for young adult leaders in peace and justice work to build ecumenical connections. Seminarians, students, and youth delegates to the WCC's 9th Assembly will find links with the vision for peace promoted by the Decade to Overcome Violence (DOV). Activities will include participation in peace and justice projects, an action with the Chicago chapter of the National Interfaith Committee for Worker Justice, time for sharing resources, space for theological reflection with leaders in the WCC and member communions, and a visioning process with members of the US DOV Committee. The Church of the Brethren is represented on the committee by Phil Jones of the Brethren Witness/Washington Office and Matt Guynn of On Earth Peace. Young adults are invited to stay in Chicago to attend the Annual Meeting of the US Conference for the WCC and the WCC 9th Assembly Pre-Event, Oct. 10-12. Scholarships are available for Brethren who need assistance in order to attend. Registration information is available at www.wcc-usa.org. "Shift Your Space Transform the World" will cost $75 for the event, food and hostel-style lodging; or $35 without lodging. Registration deadline is Sept. 16.
Source: 08/31/2005 Newsline
top
The General Board's Brethren Witness/Washington Office is encouraging Brethren participation in upcoming peace-related events: the Seeking Peace Conference, Sept. 8-11, in Indianapolis, Ind.; a March on Washington and three days of action against the war in Iraq, Sept. 24-26; the International Day of Peace on Sept. 21; and "Shift Your Space, Transform the World: Young Adults Connecting Ecumenically for Peace and Justice," Oct. 8-10 in Chicago.
The Seeking Peace Conference Sept. 8-11 will be a multi-faceted and intergenerational gathering providing opportunities to build mentoring relationships and explore practical and intellectual approaches to peace and peacemaking. Sponsored in part by the Brethren Witness/Washington Office and On Earth Peace, the conference will feature workshops and seminars, a large book table and resource center, applications for all careers, youth participation, fellowship, and biblical, dynamic worship. For more information contact the office at 800-785-3246 or visit www.plowsharesproject.org.
The days of action against the war in Iraq, Sept. 24-26, will begin with a march, rally, and festival Saturday, Sept. 24 in Washington D.C. Brethren are encouraged to gather at the Brethren Witness/Washington Office (337 North Carolina Ave. SE), at 10 a.m. to march together to join the larger rally at the Washington Monument (watch for the Church of the Brethren display table on the mall). Other scheduled events include an interfaith religious service and day of grassroots training on Sept. 25, and a large-scale grassroots lobbying day and mass nonviolent direct action and civil disobedience on Sept. 26. For more information call the Brethren Witness/Washington Office or visit www.brethren.org or www.unitedforpeace.org. Contact the office for assistance in scheduling lobbying visits on Sept. 26.
Brethren are invited to join people from around the world in observing the International Day of Peace on Sept. 21. The vision for this day is a global cease-fire, as well as lifting up the principles of nonviolence. The day was established by a United Nations resolution in 1981, with the intention of setting aside a specific time for the UN and its member states to promote the ideals of peace. "We understand that this is only a symbolic day, but one that can and should raise the consciousness of peacemakers in all places. The challenge is to transform this symbolic day into reality," commented Phil Jones, office director. The day is supported by the World Council of Churches (WCC) as the International Day of Prayer for Peace. Resources are available at www.overcomingviolence.org/peace2005. Brethren may commit to a peace vigil and record the information at www.idpvigil.com/commitment. Contact the Brethren Witness/Washington Office for more peace-related resources or assistance in vigil promotion.
"Shift Your Space Transform the World," Oct. 8-10, is for young adult leaders in peace and justice work to build ecumenical connections. Seminarians, students, and youth delegates to the WCC's 9th Assembly will find links with the vision for peace promoted by the Decade to Overcome Violence (DOV). Activities will include participation in peace and justice projects, an action with the Chicago chapter of the National Interfaith Committee for Worker Justice, time for sharing resources, space for theological reflection with leaders in the WCC and member communions, and a visioning process with members of the US DOV Committee. The Church of the Brethren is represented on the committee by Phil Jones of the Brethren Witness/Washington Office and Matt Guynn of On Earth Peace. Young adults are invited to stay in Chicago to attend the Annual Meeting of the US Conference for the WCC and the WCC 9th Assembly Pre-Event, Oct. 10-12. Scholarships are available for Brethren who need assistance in order to attend. Registration information is available at www.wcc-usa.org. "Shift Your Space Transform the World" will cost $75 for the event, food and hostel-style lodging; or $35 without lodging. Registration deadline is Sept. 16.
Source: 08/31/2005 Newsline
top
World Mission Offering builds on missions conference momentum.
"The theme for this year's World Mission Offering emphasis, 'Alive to Mission,' builds on the excitement generated at the Mission Alive 2005 conference in Goshen, Ind., in April," said Janis Pyle, coordinator for Mission Connections for the General Board. The suggested date for the annual offering is Oct. 9.
A packet of offering-related materials including a DVD entitled, "Mission Alive 2005... and Beyond," has been mailed to all Church of the Brethren congregations. The theme comes from John 10:10, "I came that they might have life...." The packet includes ideas for activities to prepare for the offering. Enclosed are a bulletin insert/brochure on Brethren mission workers abroad, a sample offering envelope, and interpretation resources with ideas to help pastors develop mission-centered worship services. The interpretation resources are available in Spanish. For further information contact Janis Pyle at 800-323-8039 ext 227.
Source: 08/31/2005 Newsline
top
"The theme for this year's World Mission Offering emphasis, 'Alive to Mission,' builds on the excitement generated at the Mission Alive 2005 conference in Goshen, Ind., in April," said Janis Pyle, coordinator for Mission Connections for the General Board. The suggested date for the annual offering is Oct. 9.
A packet of offering-related materials including a DVD entitled, "Mission Alive 2005... and Beyond," has been mailed to all Church of the Brethren congregations. The theme comes from John 10:10, "I came that they might have life...." The packet includes ideas for activities to prepare for the offering. Enclosed are a bulletin insert/brochure on Brethren mission workers abroad, a sample offering envelope, and interpretation resources with ideas to help pastors develop mission-centered worship services. The interpretation resources are available in Spanish. For further information contact Janis Pyle at 800-323-8039 ext 227.
Source: 08/31/2005 Newsline
top
Newsline Special Report: Hurricane Katrina
THE BRETHREN SEND MATERIALS AND GRANT MONEY TO AID HURRICANE SURVIVORS.
The Church of the Brethren has begun responding to the needs of survivors of Hurricane Katrina with an initial grant from the General Board's Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF) and a shipment of relief materials from the Brethren Service Center warehouses in New Windsor, Md. In addition, board staff Roy Winter, director of Emergency Response, and Helen Stonesifer, coordinator of Disaster Child Care, have been requested to participate in the coordination of mass care for all the survivors, working out of Washington, D.C., with the Red Cross.
On Aug. 29, Hurricane Katrina slammed into the northern Gulf Coast causing massive destruction in the city of New Orleans, and in other areas of Louisiana, and Mississippi. The storm also affected the Alabama coast and Florida panhandle, reported Emergency Response/Service Ministries (ER/SM). "The storm is tracking up into the Tennessee and Ohio Valleys, where widespread flooding is expected," ER/SM said. According to press reports, death tolls may rise into the hundreds, and most of the half-million residents of New Orleans--which is being completely evacuated--will be unable to return home and need temporary shelter for weeks if not longer.
A shipment of relief materials left the Brethren Service Center last night, Aug. 30, bound for Baton Rouge, La. The shipment of 5,000 blankets and 5,040 Gift of the Heart Health Kits was prepared for Church World Service (CWS) by the staff of Service Ministries. It should arrive this afternoon, said Diane Gosnell, secretary for Emergency Response. Service Ministries also is preparing a shipment of 540 Health Kits for CWS to send to West Memphis, Ark.
The initial EDF grant of $15,000 responds to a CWS appeal for $300,000 for the disaster. The funds will support shipments of Gift of the Heart Kits, material aid, and the organization of longterm recovery. CWS anticipates that its response to Hurricane Katrina may be the largest US relief and recovery effort in its history, a press release today reported. CWS executive director John L. McCullough is travelling to Louisiana to personally assess emergency and longterm recovery needs and to meet with area faith leaders. "Church World Service is particularly concerned about the plight of what we anticipate to be a high percentage of poor people, the elderly, and other vulnerable populations," he said. "Stories of individuals who had to stay in their homes because they couldn't afford to evacuate personify that crisis." For more about the CWS response, see www.churchworldservice.org.
Church of the Brethren Disaster Child Care volunteers are standing by, and will likely work at shelters as well as in service centers. The child-care deployment is being organized and priorities are being set with the Red Cross, Winter said.
A call to remember those in Biloxi, Miss., who received Brethren aid to rebuild following a storm in the late 1990s came from Stan Noffsinger, general secretary of the General Board. He recalled in particular a grandmother named Miss Grace, who lived with three generations of her family in a home rebuilt by the Brethren. It was the first Brethren Disaster Response project after Noffsinger became director of the program in 1999. "I was so moved by the relationships that we built with the people in Biloxi, dear friends, dear souls," he said, remembering as well the hundreds of Brethren volunteers who gave hours of aid to Biloxi.
Miss Grace's home and others the Brethren helped to rebuild were located right behind the casinos that were destroyed along the coast line in Biloxi, Noffsinger said. The conflicting images of opulence and poverty highlight the problems that the country, and the church, face following this disaster, he said. "In light of the mighty winds, and the mighty waters, the opulence could not stand, but neither did Miss Grace's house. It makes you wonder what happened to the people we worked for, because they've lost everything. Where do they go now, and how do they recover?"
The Brethren who have been calling the Brethren Service Center with offers of rooms and hospitality for those displaced by the hurricane were thanked by Noffsinger, but he called for great care to be taken in responding to the crisis so that the church's response is appropriate. "I have confidence in our Emergency Response program, the Disaster Child Care program, and our participation in Church World Service," he said. "When we respond it will be appropriate, it will be humane, and it will be respectful of the lives that we care for."
In other Brethren news related to the hurricane, a prayer request was issued by Southeastern District for hurricane damage in Alabama. The church buildings of Fruitdale (Ala.) Church of the Brethren and Cedar Creek Church of the Brethren in Citronelle, Ala., were unharmed. A member of Cedar Creek lost her home, and the daughter of the Fruitdale pastor had a tree fall on one end of her mobile home. Steven Petcher, a team pastor at Cedar Creek, reported that many trees were blown over by the 60- to 90-mile-an-hour winds, but all church members are safe.
The district is collecting donations toward the disaster. "When you look at the whole picture it's just overwhelming," said district co-executive Martha Roudebush, expressing concern for all of those affected by the hurricane. "You can't find words" to share the feelings, she said.
Gift of the Heart Health Kits are needed for the relief effort, as well as Heart to Heart Kids Kits, and donations to the Emergency Disaster Fund to support Brethren efforts to help those in need. Information about kits is at www.churchworldservice.org/kits/index.html. Donations may be sent to the Emergency Disaster Fund, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120. For more about the Emergency Response/Service Ministries see www.brethren.org/genbd/ersm/.
Source: 08/31/2005 Newsline
top
THE BRETHREN SEND MATERIALS AND GRANT MONEY TO AID HURRICANE SURVIVORS.
The Church of the Brethren has begun responding to the needs of survivors of Hurricane Katrina with an initial grant from the General Board's Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF) and a shipment of relief materials from the Brethren Service Center warehouses in New Windsor, Md. In addition, board staff Roy Winter, director of Emergency Response, and Helen Stonesifer, coordinator of Disaster Child Care, have been requested to participate in the coordination of mass care for all the survivors, working out of Washington, D.C., with the Red Cross.
On Aug. 29, Hurricane Katrina slammed into the northern Gulf Coast causing massive destruction in the city of New Orleans, and in other areas of Louisiana, and Mississippi. The storm also affected the Alabama coast and Florida panhandle, reported Emergency Response/Service Ministries (ER/SM). "The storm is tracking up into the Tennessee and Ohio Valleys, where widespread flooding is expected," ER/SM said. According to press reports, death tolls may rise into the hundreds, and most of the half-million residents of New Orleans--which is being completely evacuated--will be unable to return home and need temporary shelter for weeks if not longer.
A shipment of relief materials left the Brethren Service Center last night, Aug. 30, bound for Baton Rouge, La. The shipment of 5,000 blankets and 5,040 Gift of the Heart Health Kits was prepared for Church World Service (CWS) by the staff of Service Ministries. It should arrive this afternoon, said Diane Gosnell, secretary for Emergency Response. Service Ministries also is preparing a shipment of 540 Health Kits for CWS to send to West Memphis, Ark.
The initial EDF grant of $15,000 responds to a CWS appeal for $300,000 for the disaster. The funds will support shipments of Gift of the Heart Kits, material aid, and the organization of longterm recovery. CWS anticipates that its response to Hurricane Katrina may be the largest US relief and recovery effort in its history, a press release today reported. CWS executive director John L. McCullough is travelling to Louisiana to personally assess emergency and longterm recovery needs and to meet with area faith leaders. "Church World Service is particularly concerned about the plight of what we anticipate to be a high percentage of poor people, the elderly, and other vulnerable populations," he said. "Stories of individuals who had to stay in their homes because they couldn't afford to evacuate personify that crisis." For more about the CWS response, see www.churchworldservice.org.
Church of the Brethren Disaster Child Care volunteers are standing by, and will likely work at shelters as well as in service centers. The child-care deployment is being organized and priorities are being set with the Red Cross, Winter said.
A call to remember those in Biloxi, Miss., who received Brethren aid to rebuild following a storm in the late 1990s came from Stan Noffsinger, general secretary of the General Board. He recalled in particular a grandmother named Miss Grace, who lived with three generations of her family in a home rebuilt by the Brethren. It was the first Brethren Disaster Response project after Noffsinger became director of the program in 1999. "I was so moved by the relationships that we built with the people in Biloxi, dear friends, dear souls," he said, remembering as well the hundreds of Brethren volunteers who gave hours of aid to Biloxi.
Miss Grace's home and others the Brethren helped to rebuild were located right behind the casinos that were destroyed along the coast line in Biloxi, Noffsinger said. The conflicting images of opulence and poverty highlight the problems that the country, and the church, face following this disaster, he said. "In light of the mighty winds, and the mighty waters, the opulence could not stand, but neither did Miss Grace's house. It makes you wonder what happened to the people we worked for, because they've lost everything. Where do they go now, and how do they recover?"
The Brethren who have been calling the Brethren Service Center with offers of rooms and hospitality for those displaced by the hurricane were thanked by Noffsinger, but he called for great care to be taken in responding to the crisis so that the church's response is appropriate. "I have confidence in our Emergency Response program, the Disaster Child Care program, and our participation in Church World Service," he said. "When we respond it will be appropriate, it will be humane, and it will be respectful of the lives that we care for."
In other Brethren news related to the hurricane, a prayer request was issued by Southeastern District for hurricane damage in Alabama. The church buildings of Fruitdale (Ala.) Church of the Brethren and Cedar Creek Church of the Brethren in Citronelle, Ala., were unharmed. A member of Cedar Creek lost her home, and the daughter of the Fruitdale pastor had a tree fall on one end of her mobile home. Steven Petcher, a team pastor at Cedar Creek, reported that many trees were blown over by the 60- to 90-mile-an-hour winds, but all church members are safe.
The district is collecting donations toward the disaster. "When you look at the whole picture it's just overwhelming," said district co-executive Martha Roudebush, expressing concern for all of those affected by the hurricane. "You can't find words" to share the feelings, she said.
Gift of the Heart Health Kits are needed for the relief effort, as well as Heart to Heart Kids Kits, and donations to the Emergency Disaster Fund to support Brethren efforts to help those in need. Information about kits is at www.churchworldservice.org/kits/index.html. Donations may be sent to the Emergency Disaster Fund, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120. For more about the Emergency Response/Service Ministries see www.brethren.org/genbd/ersm/.
Source: 08/31/2005 Newsline
top
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 if Newsline is cited as the source. Janice England, Lerry Fogle, Mary Kay Heatwole, Elsie Holderread, Phil Jones, Merv Keeney, Jon Kobel, Jeri S. Kornegay, A. Joan Lowry, Wendy McFadden, Janis Pyle, and Joe Vecchio 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 if Newsline is cited as the source. Janice England, Lerry Fogle, Mary Kay Heatwole, Elsie Holderread, Phil Jones, Merv Keeney, Jon Kobel, Jeri S. Kornegay, A. Joan Lowry, Wendy McFadden, Janis Pyle, and Joe Vecchio contributed to this report.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)