- Leadership and daily themes for 2006 Annual Conference are announced.
- Association of Brethren Caregivers Board issues visioning statement for denomination.
- Brethren Medical Plan Study Committee holds first meeting.
- Committee on Interchurch Relations sets priorities and theme focus.
- On Earth Peace hosts sixth monthly 'truth-in-recruiting' support call.
- Northern Indiana District fixes eyes on Jesus.
- Chicago youth hear truth from Sergeant Abe.
- Brethren bits: Personnel, National Donor Sabbath, and more.
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
NEWS
Leadership and daily themes for 2006 Annual Conference are announced.
The Annual Conference Program and Arrangements Committee has announced preachers, worship leaders, and other leadership for the 2006 Annual Conference, as well as daily themes. The conference will take place July 1-5 in Des Moines, Iowa.
The daily theme for the first day of the Conference, Saturday, center on the Conference theme, "Together: Exercise Daily in God" and the theme scripture 1 Timothy 4:6-8 along with Philippians 1:3-7. "The Light That Guides" will be Sunday's theme, with reference to Deuteronomy 11:18, Psalm 119:97-112 and 129-136. On Monday conference-goers will be asked, "How Many Exercises Can You Do?" with reference to Joshua 1:6-9, Psalm 1:2, and Matthew 6:16-18. Tuesday's theme is "Faith Is Not Being a Couch Potato," referring to Philemon 1:4-7 and Matthew 28:18-20. On the final day, "Holding on to the Solid Rock" will serve as theme with Luke 21:19 and Hebrews 10:19-25.
Kelly Burk, pastor of Richmond (Ind.) Church of the Brethren, will preach for the opening service Saturday evening, with worship leader Clara Glover, pastor of Stover Memorial Church of the Brethren in Des Moines. On Sunday morning, Annual Conference moderator Ronald Beachley will preach, with moderator-elect Belita Mitchell leading worship. On Monday evening, Myrna Long Wheeler, chaplain at Brethren Hillcrest Homes in La Verne, Calif., will preach with worship leader Ruben DeOleo, director of Hispanic Ministry for Atlantic Northeast District. Tuesday evening the message will be brought by Dennis Webb, pastor of Naperville (Ill.) Church of the Brethren, with worship leader Joy Zepp, pastor of Manor Church of the Brethren in Boonsboro, Md. The closing service on Wednesday morning will hear from Lisa Hess and Brian Maguire, who will serve at the Conference as consultants for Together: Conversations on Being the Church. David Shumate, executive minister for Virlina District, will lead the service.
In other leadership positions, Rosanna McFadden of Goshen, Ind., is worship coordinator. The music coordinator will be Kathy Johnson of Dallas Center, Iowa. Carolyn Fitzkee of Manheim, Pa., will direct the Conference Choir and Denise Oneal of Adel, Iowa, will direct the Children's Choir. Earla Reffner of Roaring Springs, Pa., will serve as organist and Connie Burkholder of Ankeny, Iowa, as pianist.
Bible study leaders also have been announced: Jim Lehman of Elgin, Ill.; Christy Waltersdorff of Lombard, Ill.; Bill Waugh of Greensburg, Pa.; and Hector E. Perez-Borges of Bayamon, P.R., as Hispanic Bible study coordinator. The theological studies will be led by Tara Hornbacker, assistant professor of Ministry Formation at Bethany Theological Seminary.
For more about Annual Conference go to www.brethren.org/ac/.
Source: 10/12/2005 Newsline
top
The Annual Conference Program and Arrangements Committee has announced preachers, worship leaders, and other leadership for the 2006 Annual Conference, as well as daily themes. The conference will take place July 1-5 in Des Moines, Iowa.
The daily theme for the first day of the Conference, Saturday, center on the Conference theme, "Together: Exercise Daily in God" and the theme scripture 1 Timothy 4:6-8 along with Philippians 1:3-7. "The Light That Guides" will be Sunday's theme, with reference to Deuteronomy 11:18, Psalm 119:97-112 and 129-136. On Monday conference-goers will be asked, "How Many Exercises Can You Do?" with reference to Joshua 1:6-9, Psalm 1:2, and Matthew 6:16-18. Tuesday's theme is "Faith Is Not Being a Couch Potato," referring to Philemon 1:4-7 and Matthew 28:18-20. On the final day, "Holding on to the Solid Rock" will serve as theme with Luke 21:19 and Hebrews 10:19-25.
Kelly Burk, pastor of Richmond (Ind.) Church of the Brethren, will preach for the opening service Saturday evening, with worship leader Clara Glover, pastor of Stover Memorial Church of the Brethren in Des Moines. On Sunday morning, Annual Conference moderator Ronald Beachley will preach, with moderator-elect Belita Mitchell leading worship. On Monday evening, Myrna Long Wheeler, chaplain at Brethren Hillcrest Homes in La Verne, Calif., will preach with worship leader Ruben DeOleo, director of Hispanic Ministry for Atlantic Northeast District. Tuesday evening the message will be brought by Dennis Webb, pastor of Naperville (Ill.) Church of the Brethren, with worship leader Joy Zepp, pastor of Manor Church of the Brethren in Boonsboro, Md. The closing service on Wednesday morning will hear from Lisa Hess and Brian Maguire, who will serve at the Conference as consultants for Together: Conversations on Being the Church. David Shumate, executive minister for Virlina District, will lead the service.
In other leadership positions, Rosanna McFadden of Goshen, Ind., is worship coordinator. The music coordinator will be Kathy Johnson of Dallas Center, Iowa. Carolyn Fitzkee of Manheim, Pa., will direct the Conference Choir and Denise Oneal of Adel, Iowa, will direct the Children's Choir. Earla Reffner of Roaring Springs, Pa., will serve as organist and Connie Burkholder of Ankeny, Iowa, as pianist.
Bible study leaders also have been announced: Jim Lehman of Elgin, Ill.; Christy Waltersdorff of Lombard, Ill.; Bill Waugh of Greensburg, Pa.; and Hector E. Perez-Borges of Bayamon, P.R., as Hispanic Bible study coordinator. The theological studies will be led by Tara Hornbacker, assistant professor of Ministry Formation at Bethany Theological Seminary.
For more about Annual Conference go to www.brethren.org/ac/.
Source: 10/12/2005 Newsline
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Association of Brethren Caregivers Board issues visioning statement for denomination.
The Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC) Board has approved a visioning statement encouraging a new look at how the Church of the Brethren structure enables the mission and ministry of the denomination. The document, "A New World Coming--A Renewed Church Emerging," was approved during board meetings Sept. 23-25 in Elgin, Ill. The statement describes how ABC sees the denomination and itself, and challenges the Church of the Brethren to intentionally organize and position itself for ministry and mission in the future.
The paper begins by stating why the ABC Board is interested in bringing attention to the organizational health of the denomination. "A key component of the vision of the Association of Brethren Caregivers--to seek and secure the well-being of all people--causes the ABC Board to address growing concerns over the way in which Brethren are currently organized for ministry and mission," the statement says in part. "Out of love and care for our denomination, and in pursuance of Christ's prayerful petition 'that they may all be one,' the ABC Board is committed to working earnestly and collaboratively to address the inadequacies of our current structure, as well as its inability to account for widely differing expectations within our denomination."
"On the eve of our 300th anniversary as Brethren, and in anticipation of discussions soon to be held concerning Brethren ecclesiology, we offer a pro-active call for transformational change which will define the Church of the Brethren as it transitions into being the church for the present age," the document continues.
The statement was written by an ABC study committee that evaluated how ABC relates to the denomination. Committee members were Connie Burk Davis, chair; Wally Landes, chair-elect of the ABC Board; Eddie Edmonds, ABC treasurer; Marty Barlow, former General Board member; and Sandy Bosserman, executive minister of Missouri and Arkansas District.
Former staff and board members of ABC raised similar concerns at meetings in 2003 with the Interagency Forum and other denominational committees, noted Kathy Reid, executive director of ABC. "We see the document as continuing a needed and difficult conversation. To that end, this paper offers our humble observations and a hope for structures that more suitably meet the needs of the church," Reid said. "The paper also states ABC's intention of continuing to serve the caring ministries of the Church of the Brethren within the current denominational structure." The full paper can be downloaded in a PDF format from www.brethren-caregivers.org.
In other business, the board approved a proposed budget of $534,960 for 2007; received reports about ABC's ministries and their initiatives including resources available to churches for Disabilities Awareness Month (October), National Observance of Children's Sabbath (Oct. 14-16), and National Donor Sabbath (Nov. 13); heard reports about Annual Conference activities; heard about plans for the next National Older Adult Conference, Sept. 4-8, 2006, at Lake Junaluska (N.C.) Assembly; and discussed the recent Caring Ministries Assembly that drew more than 200 participants to Bridgewater (Va.) Church of the Brethren Aug. 11-13. The board overwhelmingly agreed for staff to begin planning for a 2007 assembly, to continue its programming for deacons, chaplains, and pastors.
The board also participated in a development program around a theme of nationalized health care. Landes gave a presentation prepared for a state-wide meeting of Physicians for a National Health Program, comparing statistics of US health-care costs and efficacy with statistics from countries that offer national health-care programs.
Following the launch of ABC's "Lighten Up, Brethren!" campaign and wellness ministry, collectively the ABC board and staff have lost 76 pounds. This achievement has taken place over the last six months.
The contributions of board chair Sue Moore Ranson of Roanoke, Va., and board member Katherine Ramsey Melhorn of Wichita, Kan., were recognized as their terms end. Ranson has been a part of the board since 1998. The board appointed Edmonds of Martinsburg, W.Va., as chair-elect for 2006 and Dan McRoberts of Caledonia, Mich., as treasurer for 2006; accepted the resignation of Brian Black of Ephrata, Pa., who resigned due to a change in employment; appointed Tammy Kiser of Dayton, Va., to fill Black's term; and appointed Bill Cave of Cleona, Pa., to a three-year term.
Source: 10/12/2005 Newsline
top
The Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC) Board has approved a visioning statement encouraging a new look at how the Church of the Brethren structure enables the mission and ministry of the denomination. The document, "A New World Coming--A Renewed Church Emerging," was approved during board meetings Sept. 23-25 in Elgin, Ill. The statement describes how ABC sees the denomination and itself, and challenges the Church of the Brethren to intentionally organize and position itself for ministry and mission in the future.
The paper begins by stating why the ABC Board is interested in bringing attention to the organizational health of the denomination. "A key component of the vision of the Association of Brethren Caregivers--to seek and secure the well-being of all people--causes the ABC Board to address growing concerns over the way in which Brethren are currently organized for ministry and mission," the statement says in part. "Out of love and care for our denomination, and in pursuance of Christ's prayerful petition 'that they may all be one,' the ABC Board is committed to working earnestly and collaboratively to address the inadequacies of our current structure, as well as its inability to account for widely differing expectations within our denomination."
"On the eve of our 300th anniversary as Brethren, and in anticipation of discussions soon to be held concerning Brethren ecclesiology, we offer a pro-active call for transformational change which will define the Church of the Brethren as it transitions into being the church for the present age," the document continues.
The statement was written by an ABC study committee that evaluated how ABC relates to the denomination. Committee members were Connie Burk Davis, chair; Wally Landes, chair-elect of the ABC Board; Eddie Edmonds, ABC treasurer; Marty Barlow, former General Board member; and Sandy Bosserman, executive minister of Missouri and Arkansas District.
Former staff and board members of ABC raised similar concerns at meetings in 2003 with the Interagency Forum and other denominational committees, noted Kathy Reid, executive director of ABC. "We see the document as continuing a needed and difficult conversation. To that end, this paper offers our humble observations and a hope for structures that more suitably meet the needs of the church," Reid said. "The paper also states ABC's intention of continuing to serve the caring ministries of the Church of the Brethren within the current denominational structure." The full paper can be downloaded in a PDF format from www.brethren-caregivers.org.
In other business, the board approved a proposed budget of $534,960 for 2007; received reports about ABC's ministries and their initiatives including resources available to churches for Disabilities Awareness Month (October), National Observance of Children's Sabbath (Oct. 14-16), and National Donor Sabbath (Nov. 13); heard reports about Annual Conference activities; heard about plans for the next National Older Adult Conference, Sept. 4-8, 2006, at Lake Junaluska (N.C.) Assembly; and discussed the recent Caring Ministries Assembly that drew more than 200 participants to Bridgewater (Va.) Church of the Brethren Aug. 11-13. The board overwhelmingly agreed for staff to begin planning for a 2007 assembly, to continue its programming for deacons, chaplains, and pastors.
The board also participated in a development program around a theme of nationalized health care. Landes gave a presentation prepared for a state-wide meeting of Physicians for a National Health Program, comparing statistics of US health-care costs and efficacy with statistics from countries that offer national health-care programs.
Following the launch of ABC's "Lighten Up, Brethren!" campaign and wellness ministry, collectively the ABC board and staff have lost 76 pounds. This achievement has taken place over the last six months.
The contributions of board chair Sue Moore Ranson of Roanoke, Va., and board member Katherine Ramsey Melhorn of Wichita, Kan., were recognized as their terms end. Ranson has been a part of the board since 1998. The board appointed Edmonds of Martinsburg, W.Va., as chair-elect for 2006 and Dan McRoberts of Caledonia, Mich., as treasurer for 2006; accepted the resignation of Brian Black of Ephrata, Pa., who resigned due to a change in employment; appointed Tammy Kiser of Dayton, Va., to fill Black's term; and appointed Bill Cave of Cleona, Pa., to a three-year term.
Source: 10/12/2005 Newsline
top
Brethren Medical Plan Study Committee holds first meeting.
The Brethren Medical Plan Study Committee met for an organizational meeting in Elgin, Ill., on Sept. 11-12. The committee was elected at the 2005 Annual Conference to review the Brethren Medical Plan and respond with recommendations regarding the denomination's participation in the plan. The Brethren Medical Plan is a ministry of Brethren Benefit Trust and offers health insurance for eligible church workers and their families, which includes pastors and lay employees of congregations, district employees, and employees of other Brethren agencies.
The study committee comprises James Gibble of Atlantic Northeast District, Willie Hisey Pierson of Illinois and Wisconsin District, Brian Markle of Southern Pennsylvania District, and Donna Shumate of Southeastern District. The committee called Shumate as chair and Pierson as recorder.
The Annual Conference resolution charged the committee with the task of evaluating the Brethren Medical Plan and assessing the continuing need for and feasibility of such a denominational medical insurance plan. A full copy of the resolution is available at www.brethren.org/ac/medicalplan. The committee has been asked to bring recommendations to the 2006 Annual Conference in Des Moines, Iowa.
The committee began its work by meeting with Wil Nolen, Jeff Garber, and Donna March of Brethren Benefit Trust to gather facts relating to all aspects of the current plan. The committee plans to meet with representatives of other agencies and districts in the near future. The committee also welcomes comments from individuals and congregations at annualconference@brethren.org.
The committee asked everyone in the denomination to keep the group in prayer as it continues its work on this important task, reported Conference executive director Lerry Fogle.
Additional information about the committee's work will be available at www.brethren.org/ac/medicalplan.
Source: 10/12/2005 Newsline
top
The Brethren Medical Plan Study Committee met for an organizational meeting in Elgin, Ill., on Sept. 11-12. The committee was elected at the 2005 Annual Conference to review the Brethren Medical Plan and respond with recommendations regarding the denomination's participation in the plan. The Brethren Medical Plan is a ministry of Brethren Benefit Trust and offers health insurance for eligible church workers and their families, which includes pastors and lay employees of congregations, district employees, and employees of other Brethren agencies.
The study committee comprises James Gibble of Atlantic Northeast District, Willie Hisey Pierson of Illinois and Wisconsin District, Brian Markle of Southern Pennsylvania District, and Donna Shumate of Southeastern District. The committee called Shumate as chair and Pierson as recorder.
The Annual Conference resolution charged the committee with the task of evaluating the Brethren Medical Plan and assessing the continuing need for and feasibility of such a denominational medical insurance plan. A full copy of the resolution is available at www.brethren.org/ac/medicalplan. The committee has been asked to bring recommendations to the 2006 Annual Conference in Des Moines, Iowa.
The committee began its work by meeting with Wil Nolen, Jeff Garber, and Donna March of Brethren Benefit Trust to gather facts relating to all aspects of the current plan. The committee plans to meet with representatives of other agencies and districts in the near future. The committee also welcomes comments from individuals and congregations at annualconference@brethren.org.
The committee asked everyone in the denomination to keep the group in prayer as it continues its work on this important task, reported Conference executive director Lerry Fogle.
Additional information about the committee's work will be available at www.brethren.org/ac/medicalplan.
Source: 10/12/2005 Newsline
top
Committee on Interchurch Relations sets priorities and theme focus.
The Committee on Interchurch Relations (CIR) met in New Windsor, Md., Sept. 9-11, to set priorities for its work and a theme focus for the next two years. CIR is a committee of Annual Conference and the General Board.
The committee set a priority to "encourage the Church of the Brethren to think about Christ's call for us in this time when people of various world religions are increasingly in contact and experiencing conflict, or opportunities for friendship and community." The CIR theme and focus for the next two years will continue to be on the Decade to Overcome Violence, a program of the World Council of Churches (WCC), with particular attention to interfaith relations. The committee also continues its focus on relationships with the American Baptist Churches USA.
In line with the CIR theme, the Ecumenical Citation to be awarded at Annual Conference 2006 will shift from a youth/young adult focus to a focus on congregations. "Continuing in the theme of the Decade to Overcome Violence, the CIR seeks stories of how congregations are pursuing ecumenical, intercultural, or interfaith connections that build friendships and community," the committee said.
Plans for the Ecumenical Luncheon at Annual Conference 2006 also were made. Deborah DeWinter, program executive of the US Office of the WCC, will be the speaker with the suggested topic, "Where Have All the Christians Gone? The Changing Face of the World's Churches." She will be invited to give information on the population shift of the Christian church from the northern to the southern hemisphere.
The committee also received reports from Church of the Brethren delegates to the World and National Councils of Churches, and received a report from the American Baptist Churches USA. The committee was joined by Jeff Carter, delegate to the WCC, who shared about several issues pertaining to the council and its Ninth Assembly to take place in Porto Alegre, Brazil. Rothang Chhangte reported from the American Baptists on several items from their ecumenical committee, called the Committee on Christian Unity. There was considerable discussion on where the two denominations are heading, multicultural learnings, and planting of new churches.
The committee also heard reports from the general secretary of the General Board and discussed written reports from representatives who attended annual gatherings of other Brethren bodies.
The group welcomed new member Ilexene Alphonse and ex-officio member Rothang Chhangte representing the American Baptist Churches USA. Continuing members are Steve Brady (chair), Jim Eikenberry, Brandy Fix, Michael Hostetter, and Bob Johansen.
Source: 10/12/2005 Newsline
top
The Committee on Interchurch Relations (CIR) met in New Windsor, Md., Sept. 9-11, to set priorities for its work and a theme focus for the next two years. CIR is a committee of Annual Conference and the General Board.
The committee set a priority to "encourage the Church of the Brethren to think about Christ's call for us in this time when people of various world religions are increasingly in contact and experiencing conflict, or opportunities for friendship and community." The CIR theme and focus for the next two years will continue to be on the Decade to Overcome Violence, a program of the World Council of Churches (WCC), with particular attention to interfaith relations. The committee also continues its focus on relationships with the American Baptist Churches USA.
In line with the CIR theme, the Ecumenical Citation to be awarded at Annual Conference 2006 will shift from a youth/young adult focus to a focus on congregations. "Continuing in the theme of the Decade to Overcome Violence, the CIR seeks stories of how congregations are pursuing ecumenical, intercultural, or interfaith connections that build friendships and community," the committee said.
Plans for the Ecumenical Luncheon at Annual Conference 2006 also were made. Deborah DeWinter, program executive of the US Office of the WCC, will be the speaker with the suggested topic, "Where Have All the Christians Gone? The Changing Face of the World's Churches." She will be invited to give information on the population shift of the Christian church from the northern to the southern hemisphere.
The committee also received reports from Church of the Brethren delegates to the World and National Councils of Churches, and received a report from the American Baptist Churches USA. The committee was joined by Jeff Carter, delegate to the WCC, who shared about several issues pertaining to the council and its Ninth Assembly to take place in Porto Alegre, Brazil. Rothang Chhangte reported from the American Baptists on several items from their ecumenical committee, called the Committee on Christian Unity. There was considerable discussion on where the two denominations are heading, multicultural learnings, and planting of new churches.
The committee also heard reports from the general secretary of the General Board and discussed written reports from representatives who attended annual gatherings of other Brethren bodies.
The group welcomed new member Ilexene Alphonse and ex-officio member Rothang Chhangte representing the American Baptist Churches USA. Continuing members are Steve Brady (chair), Jim Eikenberry, Brandy Fix, Michael Hostetter, and Bob Johansen.
Source: 10/12/2005 Newsline
top
On Earth Peace hosts sixth monthly 'truth-in-recruiting' support call.
On Earth Peace recently hosted its sixth monthly support call for people working on "truth in recruiting" and alternatives to military service. Participants from Nebraska, Tennessee, West Virginia, Maryland, Indiana, and North Carolina included Brethren, Mennonites, and a Quaker. Several are active in local communities; others are regional or national organizers.
The monthly support calls are an opportunity for spiritual and practical support for those involved in counter-recruiting and offering alternatives to the military, said Matt Guynn, coordinator of peace witness for On Earth Peace. "There is a growing concern in the US about the promises made by military recruiters," he said. "It turns out that they aren't bound by any verbal or written promises made when young people sign the enlistment papers. We hope to spread this information, and help anyone who wants to find useful, income-producing alternatives to military service. As Christians, we hope to recruit people to serve the Lord of life, not the forces of death."
In addition, nearly 50 people participate in an e-mail discussion list on counter-recruitment, hosted by On Earth Peace.
The next "Truth in Recruiting" support call is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 25, at 7 p.m. Eastern time. The call will feature in-depth reports from two or three local organizers and a question and answer time. To join the network, contact Guynn at 765-962-6234 or mattguynn@earthlink.net, or visit www.brethren.org/oepa/CounterRecruitment.html. The 146 Decade to Overcome Violence congregations in the Church of the Brethren are especially encouraged to participate.
Source: 10/12/2005 Newsline
top
On Earth Peace recently hosted its sixth monthly support call for people working on "truth in recruiting" and alternatives to military service. Participants from Nebraska, Tennessee, West Virginia, Maryland, Indiana, and North Carolina included Brethren, Mennonites, and a Quaker. Several are active in local communities; others are regional or national organizers.
The monthly support calls are an opportunity for spiritual and practical support for those involved in counter-recruiting and offering alternatives to the military, said Matt Guynn, coordinator of peace witness for On Earth Peace. "There is a growing concern in the US about the promises made by military recruiters," he said. "It turns out that they aren't bound by any verbal or written promises made when young people sign the enlistment papers. We hope to spread this information, and help anyone who wants to find useful, income-producing alternatives to military service. As Christians, we hope to recruit people to serve the Lord of life, not the forces of death."
In addition, nearly 50 people participate in an e-mail discussion list on counter-recruitment, hosted by On Earth Peace.
The next "Truth in Recruiting" support call is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 25, at 7 p.m. Eastern time. The call will feature in-depth reports from two or three local organizers and a question and answer time. To join the network, contact Guynn at 765-962-6234 or mattguynn@earthlink.net, or visit www.brethren.org/oepa/CounterRecruitment.html. The 146 Decade to Overcome Violence congregations in the Church of the Brethren are especially encouraged to participate.
Source: 10/12/2005 Newsline
top
Northern Indiana District fixes eyes on Jesus.
The 2005 Northern Indiana District Conference was held at Beacon Heights Church of the Brethren in Fort Wayne, Ind., Sept. 16-17. Dan Petry served as moderator. The conference theme, "Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus," utilized the 2005 Annual Conference theme, reported district minister Herman Kauffmann.
Some 190 people were present for the Friday evening worship service led by moderator-elect Mike Kauffman and the worship team from Maple Grove Church of the Brethren in New Paris, Ind. Annual Conference moderator Ron Beachley was the guest speaker with a sermon titled, "What Do You See?" An offering of $1,265.45 was received for the Ministry Scholarship Fund.
Petry led Saturday morning worship and then shared a humorous roll call in the form of a letter utilizing the names of all district congregations. Throughout the day, delegates were provided glimpses of the congregations through projected pictures and paragraphs titled "Marvelous Ministries of Northern Indiana Churches Who Are Fixing Their Eyes on Jesus."
Insight sessions included "Meet the Annual Conference Moderator," "National Youth Conference and District Transportation," and "On Earth Peace--Practical Ways to Be a Living Peace Church." Twenty-five exhibitors shared displays with information for conference-goers.
In business sessions, delegates approved closure of Wakarusa (Ind.) Church of the Brethren by the end of the year and authorized the District Board to explore and implement future use of the Wakarusa building. Uses may include use for the district office or sale to another church group. The conference also authorized the District Board to sell the present district office if it decides to use the Wakarusa property, or to negotiate space in another congregation. The delegates also approved a bylaw amendment allowing the Personnel Committee to bring either a ballot or a slate to call district leadership. An amended district budget of $180,000 was approved for 2006.
Mike Kauffman was installed as moderator for 2005-06 and will serve the 2006 District Conference scheduled for Sept. 15-16 at Camp Mack in Milford, Ind. Other leaders elected were Tim Sollenberger Morphew, moderator-elect; Roger Haupert, District Conference clerk; Don Shankster, Program and Arrangements Committee; Ruthann Angle and Mark Riege, District Board; and Jan Nicodemus and Janet Kagarise, Personnel Committee. Appointees were approved to Timbercrest Church of the Brethren Home Inc. in North Manchester, Ind.; Indiana camp boards; and the Manchester College Board of Trustees.
The District Board presented the "Volunteer of the Year" award to Brian and Miriam Hartman of Nappanee (Ind.) Church of the Brethren for their service as volunteer custodians at the district office.
Source: 10/12/2005 Newsline
top
The 2005 Northern Indiana District Conference was held at Beacon Heights Church of the Brethren in Fort Wayne, Ind., Sept. 16-17. Dan Petry served as moderator. The conference theme, "Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus," utilized the 2005 Annual Conference theme, reported district minister Herman Kauffmann.
Some 190 people were present for the Friday evening worship service led by moderator-elect Mike Kauffman and the worship team from Maple Grove Church of the Brethren in New Paris, Ind. Annual Conference moderator Ron Beachley was the guest speaker with a sermon titled, "What Do You See?" An offering of $1,265.45 was received for the Ministry Scholarship Fund.
Petry led Saturday morning worship and then shared a humorous roll call in the form of a letter utilizing the names of all district congregations. Throughout the day, delegates were provided glimpses of the congregations through projected pictures and paragraphs titled "Marvelous Ministries of Northern Indiana Churches Who Are Fixing Their Eyes on Jesus."
Insight sessions included "Meet the Annual Conference Moderator," "National Youth Conference and District Transportation," and "On Earth Peace--Practical Ways to Be a Living Peace Church." Twenty-five exhibitors shared displays with information for conference-goers.
In business sessions, delegates approved closure of Wakarusa (Ind.) Church of the Brethren by the end of the year and authorized the District Board to explore and implement future use of the Wakarusa building. Uses may include use for the district office or sale to another church group. The conference also authorized the District Board to sell the present district office if it decides to use the Wakarusa property, or to negotiate space in another congregation. The delegates also approved a bylaw amendment allowing the Personnel Committee to bring either a ballot or a slate to call district leadership. An amended district budget of $180,000 was approved for 2006.
Mike Kauffman was installed as moderator for 2005-06 and will serve the 2006 District Conference scheduled for Sept. 15-16 at Camp Mack in Milford, Ind. Other leaders elected were Tim Sollenberger Morphew, moderator-elect; Roger Haupert, District Conference clerk; Don Shankster, Program and Arrangements Committee; Ruthann Angle and Mark Riege, District Board; and Jan Nicodemus and Janet Kagarise, Personnel Committee. Appointees were approved to Timbercrest Church of the Brethren Home Inc. in North Manchester, Ind.; Indiana camp boards; and the Manchester College Board of Trustees.
The District Board presented the "Volunteer of the Year" award to Brian and Miriam Hartman of Nappanee (Ind.) Church of the Brethren for their service as volunteer custodians at the district office.
Source: 10/12/2005 Newsline
top
Chicago youth hear truth from Sergeant Abe.
With its young folks on the receiving end of a slick and aggressive nationwide military recruiting drive, members of First Church of the Brethren in Chicago, Ill., brought in their own recruiter: Sergeant Abe.
A creation of Quaker House in Fayetteville, N.C.--neighbor to Fort Bragg, one of the world's largest military complexes--"Sgt. Abe, the Honest Recruiter" appears overlaid on a copy of a conscription agreement. He points out key details that recruiters often fail to mention, such as non-negotiable extensions of deployment, and explains what they can mean in a soldier's life.
Sgt. Abe was just one of many tools employed during an afternoon workshop held at the church on the International Day of Peace, Sept. 21, said Duane Ediger in a report from the event. To open the session, participants shared their connections with the military. Several offered stories of deep suffering by friends and family with combat-induced Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. They also heard personal experiences of peacemaking in war zones, saw a video featuring interviews of enlistees, were given forms to fill out to help establish a claim of conscientious objection in case a military draft is reinstated, and learned that it is possible--even easy--to back out of a commitment to the Delayed Entry Program.
The 22 participants included seven youth--three regulars at First Church with four of their friends--several adult members of First Church, a chaplain from the neighboring Bethany Hospital, a South African visitor, a Mennonite pastor, a Voluntary Service worker with youth organizing for peace, and other local community organizers. Doug Hostetter, peace minister of Evanston (Ill.) Mennonite Church, and experienced draft counselor Rich Rutschman led the session.
The church served pizza and soft drinks after the 90-minute workshop and participants were invited to stay for the evening Bible study on the related theme of "The Healing Power of Nonviolence/Love" led by First Church pastor Orlando Redekopp.
"Sergeant Abe, the Honest Recruiter" is downloadable as a pdf file from www.quakerhouse.org.
Source: 10/12/2005 Newsline
top
With its young folks on the receiving end of a slick and aggressive nationwide military recruiting drive, members of First Church of the Brethren in Chicago, Ill., brought in their own recruiter: Sergeant Abe.
A creation of Quaker House in Fayetteville, N.C.--neighbor to Fort Bragg, one of the world's largest military complexes--"Sgt. Abe, the Honest Recruiter" appears overlaid on a copy of a conscription agreement. He points out key details that recruiters often fail to mention, such as non-negotiable extensions of deployment, and explains what they can mean in a soldier's life.
Sgt. Abe was just one of many tools employed during an afternoon workshop held at the church on the International Day of Peace, Sept. 21, said Duane Ediger in a report from the event. To open the session, participants shared their connections with the military. Several offered stories of deep suffering by friends and family with combat-induced Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. They also heard personal experiences of peacemaking in war zones, saw a video featuring interviews of enlistees, were given forms to fill out to help establish a claim of conscientious objection in case a military draft is reinstated, and learned that it is possible--even easy--to back out of a commitment to the Delayed Entry Program.
The 22 participants included seven youth--three regulars at First Church with four of their friends--several adult members of First Church, a chaplain from the neighboring Bethany Hospital, a South African visitor, a Mennonite pastor, a Voluntary Service worker with youth organizing for peace, and other local community organizers. Doug Hostetter, peace minister of Evanston (Ill.) Mennonite Church, and experienced draft counselor Rich Rutschman led the session.
The church served pizza and soft drinks after the 90-minute workshop and participants were invited to stay for the evening Bible study on the related theme of "The Healing Power of Nonviolence/Love" led by First Church pastor Orlando Redekopp.
"Sergeant Abe, the Honest Recruiter" is downloadable as a pdf file from www.quakerhouse.org.
Source: 10/12/2005 Newsline
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Brethren bits: Personnel, National Donor Sabbath, and more.
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- The Gather 'Round curriculum project has hired Karen McKeever, of Elgin, Ill., for an interim, part-time position as administrative assistant. She will work out of an office at Brethren Press several half-days a week until mid-February, when the curriculum is launched at a major training event. McKeever is a writer and a home-schooler of her two children, and attends Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren. Gather 'Round is a joint publishing project of Brethren Press and the Mennonite Publishing Network. The curriculum will be used beginning fall 2006.
- National donor pins will be available from the Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC) to help congregations talk about National Donor Sabbath, which will be celebrated Nov. 13. According to statistics for 2004 from the US Department of Health and Human Services, more than 87,000 men, women, and children nationwide were waiting for organ transplants, and some 17 patients die each day while waiting for a transplant. Congregations are urged to honor the observance through worship, prayer, or by wearing donation pins as way to call attention to the need for organ and tissue donation. Worship resources are available at www.brethren-caregivers.org. Congregations can receive up to 25 donor pins--call ABC at 800-323-8039.
- Several Brethren and other groups will meet at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., over the next week. The General Board will meet Oct. 15-17, with a professional growth event following on Oct. 18. A Brethren Academy class, "Leaders, Boards, and Brethren," will meet in conjunction with the General Board meeting. Other groups to be at the General Offices in the next several days include the World Council of Churches' Decade to Overcome Violence National Committee, the Pastoral Compensation and Benefits Advisory Committee, the General Board's Stewardship of Property Committee, the Cross-Cultural Steering Committee, and the Rural/Small Church Committee. In addition, the Kurtz Organ will receive a citation from the Organ Historical Society in an evening event and concert Oct. 16 in the chapel at the General Offices. The organ is part of the collection of the Brethren Historical Library and Archives.
- The Annual Conference Anniversary Committee thanks all who have submitted musical compositions for the anniversary celebration in 2008. Submissions are now being reviewed. The committee is still seeking drama as well as worship resources for use during the anniversary year, based on the 2008 Tricentennial theme "Surrendered to God, Transformed in Christ, Empowered by the Spirit." Dramatic writings can be full-length dramas, skits, monologues, and vignettes for adults, children, and/or youth. Worship resources can include calls to worship, prayers, litanies, responsive readings, offertory statements, children's stories, benedictions, worship centers (description and/or drawing), power point presentations, and interpretive movements. All submissions, due Dec. 31, become the property of the Anniversary Committee for use in tricentennial activities and should be sent to the Annual Conference Office, 1451 Dundee Ave, Elgin, IL 60120. The name, address, and phone number of the author should not appear on submissions but should be included on a separate page.
- Mill Creek Church of the Brethren in Port Republic, Va., celebrates its 165th Renewal and Homecoming on Oct. 22-23. Events include finger food and renewal 6 p.m. Saturday, morning worship 10 a.m. Sunday, a fellowship meal following, and a historical review at 3 p.m. Sunday afternoon. For more information call 540-289-5084.
- Dranesville Church of the Brethren in Herndon, Va., celebrates its 100th anniversary on Oct. 16. Worship begins at 11 a.m. A lunch will follow, and an afternoon service of sharing and remembrance at 2-3:30 p.m. For more information contact 703-430-7872 or dcoboffice@aol.com.
- Richmond (Ind.) Church of the Brethren will dedicate a new location and recent renovations with an open house on Sunday, Oct. 23. Now located at 1 S.W. 17th Street in Richmond, the congregation will begin celebrations during the 10:30 a.m. worship service with Annual Conference moderator Ronald Beachley preaching. The open house is from 2-5 p.m. with the dedication service beginning at 3 p.m. District executive Allen Kahler will preside. Contact the congregation at 765-966-1930.
- Western Pennsylvania District holds its district conference Oct. 22 at Pasquerilla Conference Center in Johnstown, Pa. Christopher A. Forry will moderate.
- Hundreds of alumni are expected at Manchester College's 81st annual homecoming Oct. 14-15. "Alumni will get a chance to tour the Science Center for the first time," said Gary Montel, director of the 14,000-member Manchester College Alumni Association. Alumni also will find the traditional football game--the Spartans meet Mount St. Joseph at 1:30 p.m. Oct. 15--and homecoming ceremonies, a golf tournament, a production from the Theatre of the Absurd, breakfast with President Jo Young Switzer at 8:30 a.m. in the College Union on Oct. 15, an alumni baseball game, the Manchester cross-country invitational, and special programs for the classes of 1965, 1970, 1975, 1980, 1985, 1990, and 1995. Choir and band alumni will perform with students for a joint concert. Manchester students have an entire week of activities highlighted by powder-puff football Oct. 12 at 8 p.m., and a bonfire and band concert at 8:30 p.m. Oct. 14. A Homecoming Reception begins at 5 p.m. Oct. 14 in Wine Recital Hall. For a complete homecoming schedule visit www.manchester.edu or call 888-257-2586.
- Jonathan Reed, professor religion at the University of La Verne, Calif., served as senior historical consultant to the "Science of the Bible" series on the National Geographic Channel, according to a recent release from the university. The 10-part series utilizes modern technology and research to explore a wide range of topics including the "Da Vinci Code" and the Shroud of Turin. The first in the series, "Birth of Jesus," aired on Sept. 14; the next in the series, "Jesus the Healer," airs Oct. 24 at 10 p.m. Eastern time. Reed is co-author of "Excavating Jesus" and "In Search of Paul" and an authority of first-century Palestine archeology. He currently is lead archaeologist at Sepphoris, the ancient capital of Galilee.
- The Valley Brethren-Mennonite Heritage Center, of Cross Roads, is sponsoring a Harvest Day on Saturday, Oct. 15, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 711 Garbers Church Rd. In Harrisonburg, Va. The event will include activities for children, hayrides, shelling and grinding corn, music, stories of faith and conscience, spinners and quilters, and apple pressing, as well as the making of molasses from sorghum syrup. Entrance fee is $8 per carload. For more information call 540-438-1275.
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Brethren participate in anti-war protest.
By Todd Flory
Around 80 members and supporters of the Church of the Brethren met at the Church of the Brethren Witness/Washington Office Oct. 1 in preparation for the Iraq war protest and rally on Capitol Hill in downtown Washington, D.C. The Brethren made signs, read church policy on war, and had breakfast before joining the estimated 100,000 people who gathered to express their opposition to the US-led war in Iraq.
Tables and tents lined the grounds of the monument. A giant stage played host to dozens of folk, hip-hop, and rock bands and speakers including Jesse Jackson and Cindy Sheehan. Hundreds of white crosses representing the lives lost in the war were set up on the monument grounds.
The march took the crowd through downtown Washington and past the White House on Pennsylvania Avenue. Walking through the crowd, one could not help but have a sense of awe and amazement at the sheer numbers of people and the diversity that accompanied them. Many in the crowd paused in front of the White House to dance, play music and chant.
Sunday was a day of training for the lobbying on Capitol Hill and the civil disobedience at the White House that was to follow Oct. 3. "I gathered with people at the Ellipse (next to the White House) and my spirit became very peaceful. It's like getting in a boat and feeling God's presence," said Illana Naylor, a member of Manassas (Va.) Church of the Brethren. She was one of the 374 people, and a handful of Brethren, who were arrested in front of the White House. "I felt such a sense of wholeness."
Her decision to get arrested was not planned in advance. In fact, while walking to the Ellipse, Naylor pondered whether she would be willing to risk arrest, even for a cause that, like thousands of other people, was so important for a person of faith and social justice. When the time came, however, she felt that she needed to act on her faith. "There was a movement, like angels' wings, pushing the people forward," Naylor said. "Though a very public witness, the decision was between me and the Lord, and I had and still have Christ's peace about this decision. I had an old, tender woman ask me if I was afraid, and I said, 'No, because it's time.'"
Even though the arresting process took many hours, beginning with the arrest of Cindy Sheehan amid a chorus of cheers, Naylor was impressed with the mood of those getting arrested. The mood was "very hopeful," she said, "that by our witness, our symbol, we're just the tip of the iceberg, that we represent thousands of other people."
Early the next morning, when the last few demonstrators were being processed and released from jail, it remained unknown--as it may indeed for many months--to what extent the march, rally, lobbying, civil disobedience, peace vigils, t-shirts, signs, speeches, and music will have had on the war in Iraq. One thing is for certain: the events over the weekend proved a visible reminder to peace. And, as Naylor so aptly stated, "Sometimes we need visible reminders."
--Todd Flory is a legislative associate and Brethren Volunteer Service worker at the Brethren Witness/Washington Office.
Source: 10/12/2005 Newsline
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By Todd Flory
Around 80 members and supporters of the Church of the Brethren met at the Church of the Brethren Witness/Washington Office Oct. 1 in preparation for the Iraq war protest and rally on Capitol Hill in downtown Washington, D.C. The Brethren made signs, read church policy on war, and had breakfast before joining the estimated 100,000 people who gathered to express their opposition to the US-led war in Iraq.
Tables and tents lined the grounds of the monument. A giant stage played host to dozens of folk, hip-hop, and rock bands and speakers including Jesse Jackson and Cindy Sheehan. Hundreds of white crosses representing the lives lost in the war were set up on the monument grounds.
The march took the crowd through downtown Washington and past the White House on Pennsylvania Avenue. Walking through the crowd, one could not help but have a sense of awe and amazement at the sheer numbers of people and the diversity that accompanied them. Many in the crowd paused in front of the White House to dance, play music and chant.
Sunday was a day of training for the lobbying on Capitol Hill and the civil disobedience at the White House that was to follow Oct. 3. "I gathered with people at the Ellipse (next to the White House) and my spirit became very peaceful. It's like getting in a boat and feeling God's presence," said Illana Naylor, a member of Manassas (Va.) Church of the Brethren. She was one of the 374 people, and a handful of Brethren, who were arrested in front of the White House. "I felt such a sense of wholeness."
Her decision to get arrested was not planned in advance. In fact, while walking to the Ellipse, Naylor pondered whether she would be willing to risk arrest, even for a cause that, like thousands of other people, was so important for a person of faith and social justice. When the time came, however, she felt that she needed to act on her faith. "There was a movement, like angels' wings, pushing the people forward," Naylor said. "Though a very public witness, the decision was between me and the Lord, and I had and still have Christ's peace about this decision. I had an old, tender woman ask me if I was afraid, and I said, 'No, because it's time.'"
Even though the arresting process took many hours, beginning with the arrest of Cindy Sheehan amid a chorus of cheers, Naylor was impressed with the mood of those getting arrested. The mood was "very hopeful," she said, "that by our witness, our symbol, we're just the tip of the iceberg, that we represent thousands of other people."
Early the next morning, when the last few demonstrators were being processed and released from jail, it remained unknown--as it may indeed for many months--to what extent the march, rally, lobbying, civil disobedience, peace vigils, t-shirts, signs, speeches, and music will have had on the war in Iraq. One thing is for certain: the events over the weekend proved a visible reminder to peace. And, as Naylor so aptly stated, "Sometimes we need visible reminders."
--Todd Flory is a legislative associate and Brethren Volunteer Service worker at the Brethren Witness/Washington Office.
Source: 10/12/2005 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 if Newsline is cited as the source. Steve Brady, Kelly Burk, Mary Dulabaum, Duane Ediger, Lerry Fogle, Matt Guynn, Herman Kauffman, and Jon Kobel 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. Steve Brady, Kelly Burk, Mary Dulabaum, Duane Ediger, Lerry Fogle, Matt Guynn, Herman Kauffman, and Jon Kobel contributed to this report.
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