- God's spirit moves at National Older Adult Conference.
- On Earth Peace board member works with UN subcommittee on racism.
- Board of Brethren Colleges Abroad meets at Bethany Seminary.
- Brethren Peace Fellowship holds annual retreat.
- Brethren bits: Personnel, Annual Conference, and much more.
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
NEWS
God's spirit moves at National Older Adult Conference.
Something miraculous happened when nearly 1,100 adults over a "certain age" came together to sing, learn, worship, listen, and laugh with one another. This year's National Older Adult Conference (NOAC), held Sept. 4-8 and sponsored by the Association of Brethren Caregivers, proved once again to be a time where those present experienced God's spirit on the move.
God's living spirit was present during keynote events at NOAC as stories gave testimony to lives dedicated to living out Jesus' teachings. Kathy Reid preached about her grandmother's strong desire to be a part of her faith community, a desire so strong that she rose very early each day to memorize hundreds of hymns so that when the disease attacking her vision left her blind she would still be able to sing with the faithful. David Augsburger gave new insights about the differences between reconciliation and forgiveness. Later that same day, his older brother, Myron, called older adults to remember when they were called to be leaders in the church, inspiring them now to mentor new leaders for the next generation. Many hearts were moved when musicians Shawn Kirchner and Ryan Harrison performed songs from across the decades and when comedians Ted and Lee brought humor and poignant insights from scripture and well-loved Bible stories.
God's gentle, loving spirit flowed freely during the spaces in between a busy week of presentations, interest groups, crafts, tournaments, and entertainment. All could feel the energy and peace that came from the gathered community singing four-part harmony to "Move in Our Midst," "Will You Let Me Be Your Servant," and "Praise God from Whom." Equally moving was the profound silence at the close of night-time worships as five candles were carried off the darkened stage, down each aisle and out into the world.
A spirit of laughter and fun was brought by video announcements that included the character of Alexander Mack (a.k.a. "A-Mack"), who was disappointed at being passed over as the oldest attendee at NOAC*an honor that went to 98-year-old Claire Throne from Brook Park Church of the Brethren, Cleveland, Ohio. Certainly, God's spirit of service was present in the $3,000 raised for the REGNUH Fitness Walk/Run around the lake one hazy morning. A work project held during the week resulted in 565 school kits, 336 health kits, and nearly $1,700 in donations.
The miraculous truth -- that when two or more are gathered in Jesus' name, the spirit moves -- was true once again among the older adults from across the denomination who took part in the eighth National Older Adult Conference.
Something miraculous happened when nearly 1,100 adults over a "certain age" came together to sing, learn, worship, listen, and laugh with one another. This year's National Older Adult Conference (NOAC), held Sept. 4-8 and sponsored by the Association of Brethren Caregivers, proved once again to be a time where those present experienced God's spirit on the move.
God's living spirit was present during keynote events at NOAC as stories gave testimony to lives dedicated to living out Jesus' teachings. Kathy Reid preached about her grandmother's strong desire to be a part of her faith community, a desire so strong that she rose very early each day to memorize hundreds of hymns so that when the disease attacking her vision left her blind she would still be able to sing with the faithful. David Augsburger gave new insights about the differences between reconciliation and forgiveness. Later that same day, his older brother, Myron, called older adults to remember when they were called to be leaders in the church, inspiring them now to mentor new leaders for the next generation. Many hearts were moved when musicians Shawn Kirchner and Ryan Harrison performed songs from across the decades and when comedians Ted and Lee brought humor and poignant insights from scripture and well-loved Bible stories.
God's gentle, loving spirit flowed freely during the spaces in between a busy week of presentations, interest groups, crafts, tournaments, and entertainment. All could feel the energy and peace that came from the gathered community singing four-part harmony to "Move in Our Midst," "Will You Let Me Be Your Servant," and "Praise God from Whom." Equally moving was the profound silence at the close of night-time worships as five candles were carried off the darkened stage, down each aisle and out into the world.
A spirit of laughter and fun was brought by video announcements that included the character of Alexander Mack (a.k.a. "A-Mack"), who was disappointed at being passed over as the oldest attendee at NOAC*an honor that went to 98-year-old Claire Throne from Brook Park Church of the Brethren, Cleveland, Ohio. Certainly, God's spirit of service was present in the $3,000 raised for the REGNUH Fitness Walk/Run around the lake one hazy morning. A work project held during the week resulted in 565 school kits, 336 health kits, and nearly $1,700 in donations.
The miraculous truth -- that when two or more are gathered in Jesus' name, the spirit moves -- was true once again among the older adults from across the denomination who took part in the eighth National Older Adult Conference.
On Earth Peace board member works with UN subcommittee on racism.
When Doris Abdullah pondered how her involvement as a board member of On Earth Peace connects with her membership on a United Nations subcommittee working against racism, two scripture texts came to her: Revelation 22:2c, "...And the leaves of the tree (of life) are for the healing of the nations"; and James 3:18. She likes a Catholic Bible version of James 3:18, "The harvest of justice is sown in peace for those who cultivate peace."
Abdullah is a member of the UN Subcommittee for the Elimination of Racism of the International NGOs (non-governmental organizations) Committee on Human Rights. She also serves as a credentialed representative of the Church of the Brethren with the UN. The Church of the Brethren has a long-standing history as a certified NGO with one of the UN directorates, according to Stan Noffsinger, general secretary of the General Board. For many years, former General Board staff member Shantilal Bhagat served as a Church of the Brethren representative to the UN, as well.
The sub-committee, which meets once a month, has "a great commission," Abdullah said: the charge to eliminate racism, "which the UN considers a scourge on human history." As a member of the subcommittee, she also had the opportunity to attend the 59th Annual Department of Public Information/NGO Conference on "Unfinished Business: Effective Partnerships for Human Security and Sustainable Development." The Sept. 6-8 gathering featured presentations on effective partnerships to achieve the Millennium Development Goals of the UN. Abdullah's subcommittee offered a workshop titled, "Racism and Discrimination as a Cause of Poverty and Hunger."
Still awed by the level of work she has become involved in, Abdullah thought, "Pinch me!" when she was seated only five rows from UN secretary general Kofi Annan at the conference. The address Annan gave impressed her as well. "He said that we are the boots on the ground that push things forward," referring to NGOs like the Church of the Brethren and On Earth Peace, she said. For Abdullah, the work of these organizations are "like the leaves of the tree in Revelation."
Ecumenical and international perspectives come naturally to Abdullah, and are major reasons for her involvement with the UN. "I suppose God prepares you for the things you do in life, although you don't realize it," she said. Her personal journey of respect for people of other backgrounds began early, with her wedding to her Muslim husband, held at Convent Avenue Baptist Church in New York, with a Jewish friend as an attendant. In her professional career of 30 years, she was employed in the New York area by an international company based in Europe.
Then, five years ago on Sept. 11, 2001, "when those buildings came down," her world changed, she said. At about the same time she retired and had new time and energy to work on the healing of a world she characterizes as deeply flawed by the linked ills of racism and poverty.
Abdullah joined the On Earth Peace board in 2002; she joined the UN subcommittee just this April. The goals of On Earth Peace are the same as the goals of her work at the UN, "because as long as there is racism, we cannot have peace," Abdullah said. She pointed to the Church of the Brethren's recognition of racism as an enduring structural factor related to poverty, in the 2000 Annual Conference statement, "Caring for the Poor." The UN recognizes the link between racism and poverty in its Millennium Development Goals, which Annual Conference has endorsed.
Abdullah's concern for the connection between racism and poverty shows in her volunteer work at a shelter for young women. In the three years she has worked there, she said, she has seen only three white women stay at the shelter; all the others have been Hispanic and African-American. The women are there because of dysfunctional family backgrounds, dismal experiences in the school system, lack of basic education, and lack of skills, Abdullah said. Many are pregnant and homeless at age 17 or younger.
"Why does this happen to these girls?" she asked. "We expect them to make choices. But there are no choices." The women are victims of institutional racism, she said. At the UN, Abdullah heard reports of the progress of African women, aided by programs teaching life skills, agriculture, and small enterprise. In contrast, she said, "my young ladies have no skills. They are fourth-world women living in the first world."
Praising the Church of the Brethren as a peace church, Abdullah also called Brethren to recognize the long way we have to go to eliminate racism. Referring to the "Caring for the Poor" statement, she called for fulfillment, for example, of the recommendation to make anti-racism training available in the denomination and a standard part of orientation for new employees.
The church "still is overwhelmingly white in its structure," she said. Society in the US is based on white privilege, the idea that "white makes you right," and the church has picked that up, she said. The rich color present among Brethren in places such as the Northeast, Chicago area, and sister churches in Nigeria and the Dominican Republic still remains to be seen in the denomination as a whole. "Our church drifts along with a white European structure at the top."
How can the church eliminate racism? Abdullah suggested some possibilities. One is the successful model used by Nelson Mandela to address the pain of apartheid in South Africa, where he worked on reconciliation first, before he started to seek justice, she said.
A story from the life of her "favorite white European," Mother Theresa, illustrates another measure to eliminate racism from the church. When Mother Theresa went to India, she discarded the traditional habit of a nun and created a habit more suited to Indian culture, Abdullah said. "Why? Because she never assumed that white means right." When churches begin asking what people of other cultures need, and allowing them to decide that for themselves, "of course you can succeed," she said, "if you throw off the nun's habit."
Her final suggestion may be startling to some: use shame. "Start by shaming people," Abdullah said. For example, the horrific events in New Orleans during and after Hurricane Katrina, revealing the persistence of poverty and racism, are shameful, she said. "You have to address it."
For more about the work of On Earth Peace, go to www.brethren.org/oepa.
When Doris Abdullah pondered how her involvement as a board member of On Earth Peace connects with her membership on a United Nations subcommittee working against racism, two scripture texts came to her: Revelation 22:2c, "...And the leaves of the tree (of life) are for the healing of the nations"; and James 3:18. She likes a Catholic Bible version of James 3:18, "The harvest of justice is sown in peace for those who cultivate peace."
Abdullah is a member of the UN Subcommittee for the Elimination of Racism of the International NGOs (non-governmental organizations) Committee on Human Rights. She also serves as a credentialed representative of the Church of the Brethren with the UN. The Church of the Brethren has a long-standing history as a certified NGO with one of the UN directorates, according to Stan Noffsinger, general secretary of the General Board. For many years, former General Board staff member Shantilal Bhagat served as a Church of the Brethren representative to the UN, as well.
The sub-committee, which meets once a month, has "a great commission," Abdullah said: the charge to eliminate racism, "which the UN considers a scourge on human history." As a member of the subcommittee, she also had the opportunity to attend the 59th Annual Department of Public Information/NGO Conference on "Unfinished Business: Effective Partnerships for Human Security and Sustainable Development." The Sept. 6-8 gathering featured presentations on effective partnerships to achieve the Millennium Development Goals of the UN. Abdullah's subcommittee offered a workshop titled, "Racism and Discrimination as a Cause of Poverty and Hunger."
Still awed by the level of work she has become involved in, Abdullah thought, "Pinch me!" when she was seated only five rows from UN secretary general Kofi Annan at the conference. The address Annan gave impressed her as well. "He said that we are the boots on the ground that push things forward," referring to NGOs like the Church of the Brethren and On Earth Peace, she said. For Abdullah, the work of these organizations are "like the leaves of the tree in Revelation."
Ecumenical and international perspectives come naturally to Abdullah, and are major reasons for her involvement with the UN. "I suppose God prepares you for the things you do in life, although you don't realize it," she said. Her personal journey of respect for people of other backgrounds began early, with her wedding to her Muslim husband, held at Convent Avenue Baptist Church in New York, with a Jewish friend as an attendant. In her professional career of 30 years, she was employed in the New York area by an international company based in Europe.
Then, five years ago on Sept. 11, 2001, "when those buildings came down," her world changed, she said. At about the same time she retired and had new time and energy to work on the healing of a world she characterizes as deeply flawed by the linked ills of racism and poverty.
Abdullah joined the On Earth Peace board in 2002; she joined the UN subcommittee just this April. The goals of On Earth Peace are the same as the goals of her work at the UN, "because as long as there is racism, we cannot have peace," Abdullah said. She pointed to the Church of the Brethren's recognition of racism as an enduring structural factor related to poverty, in the 2000 Annual Conference statement, "Caring for the Poor." The UN recognizes the link between racism and poverty in its Millennium Development Goals, which Annual Conference has endorsed.
Abdullah's concern for the connection between racism and poverty shows in her volunteer work at a shelter for young women. In the three years she has worked there, she said, she has seen only three white women stay at the shelter; all the others have been Hispanic and African-American. The women are there because of dysfunctional family backgrounds, dismal experiences in the school system, lack of basic education, and lack of skills, Abdullah said. Many are pregnant and homeless at age 17 or younger.
"Why does this happen to these girls?" she asked. "We expect them to make choices. But there are no choices." The women are victims of institutional racism, she said. At the UN, Abdullah heard reports of the progress of African women, aided by programs teaching life skills, agriculture, and small enterprise. In contrast, she said, "my young ladies have no skills. They are fourth-world women living in the first world."
Praising the Church of the Brethren as a peace church, Abdullah also called Brethren to recognize the long way we have to go to eliminate racism. Referring to the "Caring for the Poor" statement, she called for fulfillment, for example, of the recommendation to make anti-racism training available in the denomination and a standard part of orientation for new employees.
The church "still is overwhelmingly white in its structure," she said. Society in the US is based on white privilege, the idea that "white makes you right," and the church has picked that up, she said. The rich color present among Brethren in places such as the Northeast, Chicago area, and sister churches in Nigeria and the Dominican Republic still remains to be seen in the denomination as a whole. "Our church drifts along with a white European structure at the top."
How can the church eliminate racism? Abdullah suggested some possibilities. One is the successful model used by Nelson Mandela to address the pain of apartheid in South Africa, where he worked on reconciliation first, before he started to seek justice, she said.
A story from the life of her "favorite white European," Mother Theresa, illustrates another measure to eliminate racism from the church. When Mother Theresa went to India, she discarded the traditional habit of a nun and created a habit more suited to Indian culture, Abdullah said. "Why? Because she never assumed that white means right." When churches begin asking what people of other cultures need, and allowing them to decide that for themselves, "of course you can succeed," she said, "if you throw off the nun's habit."
Her final suggestion may be startling to some: use shame. "Start by shaming people," Abdullah said. For example, the horrific events in New Orleans during and after Hurricane Katrina, revealing the persistence of poverty and racism, are shameful, she said. "You have to address it."
For more about the work of On Earth Peace, go to www.brethren.org/oepa.
Board of Brethren Colleges Abroad meets at Bethany Seminary.
The presidents of the Church of the Brethren-related colleges and Bethany Theological Seminary met in August with representatives of Brethren Colleges Abroad (BCA) at Bethany's Richmond, Ind., campus. The college and seminary presidents serve as the BCA Board of Directors.
The group included Mell Bolen, who became president of BCA on July 1, and Henry Brubaker, chief financial officer. Bolen is the former director of the Office of International Programs at Brown University. This was the first meeting of the group since she was named president.
The agenda centered on future initiatives for BCA. A new core course for all students who participate in BCA will discuss social justice in a global context and include cross-cultural theory. "It will not be simply another international relations course," said Bolen, "but will combine the best of BCA's history and core vision with educational practice and theory." Another goal is to create new education sites in the developing world, where students will experience a nuanced view of the complexity of global issues.
Bolen believes that cross-cultural experiences are increasingly important for quality higher education. "This generation lives life in a global context," she explained. Students "will not be able to effectively address the critical issues that they face, such as the environment, immigration, and ethnic identity, unless they can discuss them in an informed way. BCA is one of the best programs because of its long history, and commitment to promote international understanding and academic excellence in a coordinated and conscious way."
BCA works with more than 100 colleges and universities, but Church of the Brethren distinctions such as peace and social justice guide day-to-day operations. "These core values lend themselves to BCA's mission," said Bolen, "and provide the foundation for the faculty as they serve a broad range of students."
A third initiative under discussion is the development of short-term or intensive educational experiences. Bethany president Eugene Roop noted that this option could lead to increased involvement of Bethany students in the BCA program. "Bethany students need to engage in a cross-cultural course that features both study and direct engagement," he said. "BCA can provide many more of such contexts than Bethany could provide alone."
For more about Brethren Colleges Abroad go to www.bcanet.org. For more about the Brethren colleges and seminary go to www.brethren.org/links/relcol.htm.
The presidents of the Church of the Brethren-related colleges and Bethany Theological Seminary met in August with representatives of Brethren Colleges Abroad (BCA) at Bethany's Richmond, Ind., campus. The college and seminary presidents serve as the BCA Board of Directors.
The group included Mell Bolen, who became president of BCA on July 1, and Henry Brubaker, chief financial officer. Bolen is the former director of the Office of International Programs at Brown University. This was the first meeting of the group since she was named president.
The agenda centered on future initiatives for BCA. A new core course for all students who participate in BCA will discuss social justice in a global context and include cross-cultural theory. "It will not be simply another international relations course," said Bolen, "but will combine the best of BCA's history and core vision with educational practice and theory." Another goal is to create new education sites in the developing world, where students will experience a nuanced view of the complexity of global issues.
Bolen believes that cross-cultural experiences are increasingly important for quality higher education. "This generation lives life in a global context," she explained. Students "will not be able to effectively address the critical issues that they face, such as the environment, immigration, and ethnic identity, unless they can discuss them in an informed way. BCA is one of the best programs because of its long history, and commitment to promote international understanding and academic excellence in a coordinated and conscious way."
BCA works with more than 100 colleges and universities, but Church of the Brethren distinctions such as peace and social justice guide day-to-day operations. "These core values lend themselves to BCA's mission," said Bolen, "and provide the foundation for the faculty as they serve a broad range of students."
A third initiative under discussion is the development of short-term or intensive educational experiences. Bethany president Eugene Roop noted that this option could lead to increased involvement of Bethany students in the BCA program. "Bethany students need to engage in a cross-cultural course that features both study and direct engagement," he said. "BCA can provide many more of such contexts than Bethany could provide alone."
For more about Brethren Colleges Abroad go to www.bcanet.org. For more about the Brethren colleges and seminary go to www.brethren.org/links/relcol.htm.
Brethren Peace Fellowship holds annual retreat.
On Saturday, Aug. 26, more than 65 adults and children gathered at the Miller homestead, situated on a beautiful lake in Spring Grove, Pa., for the yearly Peace Retreat of the Brethren Peace Fellowship. The retreat was sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic District Peace and Justice Committee and the Mid-Atlantic Brethren Peace Fellowship.
As the committee met to plan the event, one of the themes that needed attention was equipping peace advocates to share their vision and concerns in the local congregation, according to a report from Mike Leiter of the Peace and Justice Committee. Cynthia Mason, former chaplain for Hood College, served as the day's facilitator and worked with the committee to plan the content. Joe and Nonie Detrick led group singing with guitar and violin. The day was anchored with worship, singing, and meditation.
"Speaking Peace with Young People" was the focus of the first session, led by Bill Galvin of the Center on Conscience and War (formerly the National Interreligious Service Board for Conscientious Objectors). Galvin provided current information about Selective Service and registration for the draft, shared tactics used by military recruiters to entice young people to join the military, and updated participants about what is happening to conscientious objectors in the military who are involved with the war in Iraq.
Mason led afternoon discussions on "Empowered by Christ: Finding Our Voice," and "Speaking Peace with Congregations." Participants broke into small groups to compare varying renditions and interpretations of the "Peaceable Kingdom," the famous artwork by Edward R. Hicks. The paintings inspired stories and conversation of how peacemaking takes place in congregations.
The gathering closed after the evening meal. Attendees dispersed to their homes in West Virginia, Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C., with renewed enthusiasm and interest in furthering the gospel of Christian peacemaking. Next year the Southern Pennsylvania Brethren Peace Fellowship group will coordinate the event.
On Saturday, Aug. 26, more than 65 adults and children gathered at the Miller homestead, situated on a beautiful lake in Spring Grove, Pa., for the yearly Peace Retreat of the Brethren Peace Fellowship. The retreat was sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic District Peace and Justice Committee and the Mid-Atlantic Brethren Peace Fellowship.
As the committee met to plan the event, one of the themes that needed attention was equipping peace advocates to share their vision and concerns in the local congregation, according to a report from Mike Leiter of the Peace and Justice Committee. Cynthia Mason, former chaplain for Hood College, served as the day's facilitator and worked with the committee to plan the content. Joe and Nonie Detrick led group singing with guitar and violin. The day was anchored with worship, singing, and meditation.
"Speaking Peace with Young People" was the focus of the first session, led by Bill Galvin of the Center on Conscience and War (formerly the National Interreligious Service Board for Conscientious Objectors). Galvin provided current information about Selective Service and registration for the draft, shared tactics used by military recruiters to entice young people to join the military, and updated participants about what is happening to conscientious objectors in the military who are involved with the war in Iraq.
Mason led afternoon discussions on "Empowered by Christ: Finding Our Voice," and "Speaking Peace with Congregations." Participants broke into small groups to compare varying renditions and interpretations of the "Peaceable Kingdom," the famous artwork by Edward R. Hicks. The paintings inspired stories and conversation of how peacemaking takes place in congregations.
The gathering closed after the evening meal. Attendees dispersed to their homes in West Virginia, Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C., with renewed enthusiasm and interest in furthering the gospel of Christian peacemaking. Next year the Southern Pennsylvania Brethren Peace Fellowship group will coordinate the event.
Brethren bits: Personnel, Annual Conference, and much more.
- Cyndi Fecher started Sept. 22 as Gather 'Round project assistant, in a three-quarter-time position located in Elgin, Ill. "Gather 'Round: Hearing and Sharing God's Good News" is the new Sunday school curriculum published jointly by Brethren Press and Mennonite Publishing Network. Fecher worked for the last year as a paralegal for Visser and Associates, PLLC, a law firm in Grand Rapids, Mich., and interned with Brethren Press in the summer of 2003.
- Terry Riley has accepted the position of office coordinator for the Service Ministries program of the Church of the Brethren General Board, located at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. Riley had been employed as a finance representative at Kelly and Associates Insurance Group. Riley began in the fulltime position on Sept. 14.
- Hannah Kliewer, a Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) worker from Powell, Wyo., has joined the BVS office in Elgin, Ill., as assistant to the orientation director.
- The Annual Conference Office will have an open house on Sunday, Oct. 29, from 2-4 p.m., at their new location in New Windsor, Md. All are invited to see the new office, talk to the staff, and have some refreshments. Conference executive director Lerry Fogle and Conference assistant Dana Weaver will host the event. The office is located on the lower level of the Blue Ridge Building, 500 Main Street, New Windsor, Md., 21776-0720. Further information or directions can be obtained by calling 800-688-5186.
- Annual Conference moderator Belita D. Mitchell has written to Church of the Brethren congregations expressing "deep appreciation to the delegates and other persons in attendance at the 220th Recorded Annual Conference, held July 2-5," and highlighting the offerings amounting to $47,440 as "a wonderful expression of support for the value of Annual Conference to the life and work of our denomination." The letter called on congregations to send delegates to the 2007 Annual Conference in Cleveland, Ohio, on July 30-July 4, and to encourage other members to attend as well. The letter is being sent to congregations in the monthly "Source" packet.
- Church of the Brethren representatives are traveling to Sudan during the last week of September and early October to renew connections with the New Sudan Council of Churches and other organizations. The group will engage in reflection about possibilities for the Church of the Brethren mission in Sudan. The Brethren representatives are Merv Keeney, executive director of the General Board's Global Mission Partnerships; Bradley Bohrer, who began Sept. 11 as director of the Sudan mission initiative; and former Brethren mission worker Louise Rieman. "This new effort is requiring shaping new systems and models, a process that we want to do in conversation with long-time Sudan church partners," said Bohrer in an announcement of the trip on the initiative's web page. The conversations will be critical to define next steps for the Sudan mission, he added. After the group's return, staff anticipate announcing first openings for mission workers, with the hope of having new staff at work in Sudan by the end of the first quarter of 2007. By the end of the second quarter of 2007, the Sudan initiative may have identified the region in which work will be centered, the announcement said. "Part of the timing of placement will depend on how quickly we can raise support" for mission workers, Bohrer said. "We will be soliciting churches to 'adopt' part or all of the support for these families through a new program, asking for not only financial support, but also prayer support or even relational support. . . . Raise the Sudan initiative in your churches as a prayer concern and celebration," he requested. For resources about the Sudan mission contact Janis Pyle, coordinator for mission connections, at 800-323-8039 ext. 227 or jpyle_gb@brethren.org.
- The Association of Brethren Caregivers has rescheduled next year's Caring Ministries Assembly. The assembly is now planned for Sept. 6-8, 2007, at Lititz (Pa.) Church of the Brethren, on the theme, "Being Family: Reality and Renewal."
- Registrations are being accepted for Bethany Theological Seminary's six-week workshop, "Introduction to On-Line Teaching." The workshop, to be held completely online Oct. 23 to Dec. 8, will equip participants with the awareness and skills needed to successfully facilitate online learning as a course instructor. For more information, see www.bts.earlham.edu/~enten/IntroOnlineTeaching.htm or contact Enten Eller, Bethany Theological Seminary's director of Distributed Education, via e-mail at Enten@BethanySeminary.edu, or by phone at 765-983-1831 (800-287-8822 x1831).
- Lutheran World Relief has announced a change to its Material Resources Program that will affect the work of the Service Ministries program of the Church of the Brethren General Board. For more than 60 years, Lutheran World Relief has shared handmade quilts, kits, soap, and clothing with people in need around the world. As of Dec. 31, the program will no longer collect clothing of any kind for distribution. All other projects*including the collection of quilts, kits, and soap*will continue. The Service Ministries program at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., first began packing and shipping for Lutheran World Relief in 1951 and will continue processing and shipping quilts, soap, school kits, health kits, baby kits, sewing kits, and cotton prewashed fabric in three- to four-yard pieces. Service Ministries staff will work closely with Lutheran World Relief as the clothing portion of the program is phased out.
- The Church of the Brethren's Intercultural Study Committee has launched a Spanish version of its web log, "COB Intercultural en Espanol." Spanish-speaking sisters and brothers can learn more about the current work of the committee and contribute to the topic's discussion by visiting http://cobintercultural.blogspot.com. A new, short survey has been posted on the English and Spanish web logs. The English version is available at http://interculturalcob.blogspot.com.
- El Comité de Estudio Intercultural de la Iglesia de los Hermanos anuncia el lanzamiento de la versión de su web log en espa?ol, titulada "COB Intercultural en Espanol." Hermanas y hermanos hispanoparlantes pueden aprender más sobre el trabajo actual del comité y contribuir a la discusión de este tema al visitar http://cobintercultural.blogspot.com. Una nueva encuesta corta se a?adió a los dos web logs. La versión en inglés se encuentra en http://interculturalcob.blogspot.com.
- A Disaster Child Care (DCC) Level I Training Workshop is scheduled at La Verne (Calif.) Church of the Brethren Nov. 18-19. Download a brochure and registration form from www.disasterchildcare.org, or call the DCC office at 800-451-4407 ext. 5 to request copies. DCC volunteers who received their original training more than 10 years ago are also encouraged to participate in a Level 1 workshop to brush up on their skills. "Having experienced childcare volunteers in the workshop enhances the experience for new people," said DCC coordinator Helen Stonesifer. DCC volunteers may attend for a reduced fee of $25, as members of the volunteer network. For further information or to reserve a place in the training, contact on-site coordinator Kathy Benson at 909-593-4868 or 814-467-7381, or contact the DCC office at 800-451-4407 ext. 5 or e-mail hstonesifer_gb@brethren.org.
- New Vision Church of the Brethren, a new church development project in Virlina District, has closed. Twenty-eight people from the community and district gathered on Sunday, Sept. 17, for a final worship service of the congregation in Calabash, N.C. The effort began with worship services on April 14, 2002, and was formerly located in nearby Sunset Beach. The Coastal Carolina Steering Committee, which is responsible for Church of the Brethren mission work in the eastern Carolinas, will meet soon to review other opportunities in the area east of I-95 between Wilmington, N.C., and Surfside Beach, S.C., according to the district newsletter.
- Camp Bethel near Fincastle, Va., is hosting the national conference of the Church of the Brethren's Outdoor Ministries Association (OMA) on Nov. 17-19. The conference will likely draw about 50 people, according to the camp newsletter. The theme is, "Fill Their Cups: Fostering Leadership." The conference is "for everyone," the announcement said, including church leaders, educators, youth and children's ministry leaders, camp staff, camp boards, Outdoor Ministries Committees or district commissions, and members and leaders from all denominations. More information is available at www.campbethelvirginia.org/OMA.htm.
- Midland Christian Academy, a school related to Midland (Va.) Church of the Brethren, is being recognized by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society for raising the most funds for "Pennies for Patients" out of participating schools in Virginia, according to the "Fauquier Times-Democrat" newspaper. A recognition ceremony took place Sept. 20 at the church.
- Lewiston (Maine) Church of the Brethren celebrated 25 years on Aug. 26-27. The congregation was begun 25 years ago by six families from Pennsylvania, who moved to Maine to be part of the new church plant, according to the "Sun-Journal" newspaper.
- Oct. 7 is Camp Bethel's Heritage Day celebration, a fundraiser for the ministries of the camp. Breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m. followed by booths and displays opening at 9 a.m. The day features hot foods, baked goods, barbecue, crafts, quilts, wreaths, activities, candies, fresh vegetables, baskets, ornaments, soups, woodcraft, open-kettle apple butter, flowers, pies, tie-dye t-shirts, holiday decorations, Camp Bethel clothing and hats, and much more. Troutville Church of the Brethren's praise band, "Joyful Noiz," will perform. Go to www.campbethelvirginia.org/hday.htm.
- On Oct. 13, McPherson (Kan.) College will honor three graduates as recipients of the Young Alumni Award for 2006. Honorees include Roy Winter, Vic Ullom, and Dennis Kingery. The awards will be presented during Honors Convocation at 1:30 p.m. in Brown Auditorium. Winter graduated from McPherson in 1986 with a degree in psychology, and now serves as executive director of the Brethren Service Center and Emergency Response for the Church of the Brethren General Board. Ullom received his bachelor's degree from McPherson in 1990, followed by a master's degree in '93 from the University of Kansas and a second master's degree in International Studies and a law degree from the University of Denver; since 2002 he has worked for the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. Kingery graduated from McPherson in 1996 with a degree in accounting and business finance; since 2004 he has directed the Church of the Brethren Credit Union for Brethren Benefit Trust.
- On Sept. 30, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., CrossRoads Valley Brethren-Mennonite Heritage Center in Harrisonburg, Va., is sponsoring its annual Harvest Day. Activities include music, storytelling, horse-drawn carriage rides, painting pumpkins and gourds, making and tossing darts made from corn cobs, grinding corn and feeding it to chickens, petting barnyard babies, boiling molasses from sorghum cane syrup, pressing cider from apples, sawing logs with a crosscut saw, thread being spun from flax and wool, bed covers being quilted and woven, and nails and clothes hooks crafted by blacksmiths. Homemade food and drink will be available. Entrance fee is $8 per car. For more go to www.vbmhc.org.
- Bridgewater (Va.) Church of the Brethren will host a presentation by John Ruth*historian, storyteller, writer, and filmmaker from Pennsylvania*on the "Migration of Mennonites and Brethren from Pennsylvania to Virginia" on Oct. 15, at 7:30 p.m. The public is invited. Donations will support CrossRoads Valley Brethren-Mennonite Heritage Center.
- "NeXt Generation Stewardship," the 2006 Leadership Seminar sponsored by the Ecumenical Stewardship Center, will be held Nov. 27-30 in Saint Petersburg Beach, Fla. The Church of the Brethren is a member of the center. Speakers include Brian McLaren, author of "The Church on the Other Side: Doing Ministry in the Postmodern Matrix"; Diana Butler Bass, author of the upcoming book, "Christianity for the Rest of Us: How the Neighborhood Church Is Transforming the Faith"; and Christian musician Ken Medema, who will serve as worship leader. Early bird registration is $375, due by Oct. 4. First-time attendee and group rates offer further discounts. Registration does not include hotel costs. For more information and to register go to www.stewardshipresources.org.
- National Council of Churches (NCC) general secretary Robert Edgar has written a new book titled "Middle Church," about "reclaiming the moral values of the faithful majority from the religious right." The book was published by Simon and Schuster on Sept. 5. In a release from the NCC, a review said the book challenges people of "middle America" to speak up about their faith. As the media seeks out the most extreme religious spokespersons, many of them on the far political right, the views of ordinary people of faith are often drowned out, Edgar writes. Along with biblical reflection, the book is also part biography. Read more at www.middlechurch.net.
- The "season" for CROP walks is beginning, according to Church World Service (CWS). The humanitarian agency has announced the start of its 2006 season of community fundraising events that bring together people of all faiths in an effort to combat hunger. In 2005, more than 2,000 communities across the country*including many Church of the Brethren congregations*participated in 1,708 CROP walks. Over the past 20 years, CROP walkers have raised more than $270 million to fight hunger. Twenty-five percent of the money stays in the local communities to help stock food pantries for emergency assistance to local families; the balance helps CWS efforts to eradicate hunger and poverty around the world. Information about local CROP Hunger Walks is at www.churchworldservice.org/CROP or call 888-CWS-CROP.
- The School of the Americas (SOA) Watch has announced that this year's witness will be held Nov. 17-19 in Columbus, Ga., at the gates of Fort Benning. On Earth Peace is inviting Brethren to take part. Visit www.soaw.org for more information. The witness is focused on closing the school that has trained military personnel from other countries, many of whom have been connected with human rights abuses in Latin America.
Robert Johansen will speak at Bethany's Huston Lectures.
Bethany Theological Seminary's Huston Peace Lecture Series will take place Oct. 19-20. Robert Johansen, senior fellow and professor of political science at the University of Notre Dame, will be the guest lecturer.
On Thursday at 7 p.m., Johansen will speak on "The Politics of Love, War, and Peace: Understanding Moral Responsibility." The title of the Friday lecture, at 11:20 a.m., is "The Promise of the Rule of Law in Global Society: Accepting International Moral Responsibility."
Both lectures are free and open to the public and will take place at Bethany's Nicarry Chapel in Richmond, Ind. A reception will follow the Thursday evening lecture.
Johansen has been a senior fellow at the Joan B. Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies at the University of Notre Dame since 1986, and is the founding editor-in-chief of "World Policy Journal." He specializes in issues of international ethics and global governance, the United Nations and the maintenance of peace and security, and peace and world order studies. He is conducting research on enhancing UN peacekeeping and enforcement through an institutional grant from the US Institute of Peace, and on the role of nongovernmental organizations in promoting compliance with international humanitarian law and establishment of a permanent International Criminal Court under a grant from the Aspen Institute.
The Huston Peace Lectures are sponsored by the Ora I. Huston Memorial Peace Lectureship Endowment, established to engage the seminary community with current issues relating to peace and justice. The endowment honors Ora I. Huston, for many years the Church of the Brethren peace counselor. For more about the seminary go to www.bethanyseminary.edu.
Bethany Theological Seminary's Huston Peace Lecture Series will take place Oct. 19-20. Robert Johansen, senior fellow and professor of political science at the University of Notre Dame, will be the guest lecturer.
On Thursday at 7 p.m., Johansen will speak on "The Politics of Love, War, and Peace: Understanding Moral Responsibility." The title of the Friday lecture, at 11:20 a.m., is "The Promise of the Rule of Law in Global Society: Accepting International Moral Responsibility."
Both lectures are free and open to the public and will take place at Bethany's Nicarry Chapel in Richmond, Ind. A reception will follow the Thursday evening lecture.
Johansen has been a senior fellow at the Joan B. Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies at the University of Notre Dame since 1986, and is the founding editor-in-chief of "World Policy Journal." He specializes in issues of international ethics and global governance, the United Nations and the maintenance of peace and security, and peace and world order studies. He is conducting research on enhancing UN peacekeeping and enforcement through an institutional grant from the US Institute of Peace, and on the role of nongovernmental organizations in promoting compliance with international humanitarian law and establishment of a permanent International Criminal Court under a grant from the Aspen Institute.
The Huston Peace Lectures are sponsored by the Ora I. Huston Memorial Peace Lectureship Endowment, established to engage the seminary community with current issues relating to peace and justice. The endowment honors Ora I. Huston, for many years the Church of the Brethren peace counselor. For more about the seminary go to www.bethanyseminary.edu.
Credits
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board. Contact the editor at cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. Walt Wiltschek (guest editor), Bradley Bohrer, J. Allen Brubaker, Mary Dulabaum, Janice England, Karin Krog, Mike Leiter, Marcia Shetler, Anna M. Speicher, Helen Stonesifer, and Loretta Wolf contributed to this report.
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board. Contact the editor at cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. Walt Wiltschek (guest editor), Bradley Bohrer, J. Allen Brubaker, Mary Dulabaum, Janice England, Karin Krog, Mike Leiter, Marcia Shetler, Anna M. Speicher, Helen Stonesifer, and Loretta Wolf contributed to this report.
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
NEWS
- Council reviews 2006 Annual Conference, elects Beachley as chair.
- Disaster staff reflect on Hurricane Katrina, one year later.
- Brethren Volunteer Service unit begins service.
- Michigan District Conference focuses on new mission opportunities.
- Brethren bits: Personnel, jobs, Caring Ministries Assembly, and more.
- Del Keeney resigns from General Board's Congregational Life Ministries.
- Jay Wittmeyer to join Brethren Benefit Trust as publications manager.
- World Mission Offering invites, 'Come walk with us.'
- Registration begins for 2007 Cross Cultural Consultation.
Council reviews 2006 Annual Conference, elects Beachley as chair.
The Annual Conference Council elected Ron Beachley, immediate past moderator of Annual Conference, to chair the council for the 2006-07 year. Beachley presided over the council's meeting Aug. 16-17 at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., according to a report from Conference secretary Fred Swartz.
A major portion of meeting time was spent reviewing business actions of the 2006 Annual Conference held in Des Moines, Iowa, in July, and identifying agencies or people for follow up of decisions. The council also heard a report from the Conference secretary on a communication requesting the five Annual Conference agencies to name representatives to the Program Feasibility Study Committee--the group that will study the "Doing Church Business" recommendations to the 2006 Conference.
In other business, the council studied a report from the Annual Conference marketing ministry team advising the group to look at systemic issues that affect Conference attendance including diminishing and aging membership; increase in bi-vocational congregational leadership; growing numbers of pastors with little interest in keeping congregations connected with the denomination; and threatening divisions in the denomination.
In a related matter, the council addressed its Conference-assigned responsibility to collaborate in envisioning for the denomination with the Standing Committee of district delegates. Council members identified several "broad strokes of vision" for the church including developing missions and mission leaders, including overseas mission, congregational renewal, and new church development; calling vital and loyal Brethren leadership; calling and growing disciples; and nurturing vital worship. These ideas have been conveyed to the envisioning subcommittee of Standing Committee, with the intention that both the subcommittee and the council will work at developing strategies, Swartz reported.
The council expressed appreciation to executive director Lerry Fogle and the Annual Conference Office assistants for the achievement of many goals in the Conference's strategic plan. The group reviewed the mission, vision, and core values of the Conference and reaffirmed their validity.
Funding streams for Annual Conference demanded considerable discussion time for the council, as registrations for the 2006 Conference fell considerably below the projected mark, Swartz said. There were more than 100 fewer delegates in 2006 than were hoped for, he said. One of the principal means of support for Annual Conference comes from delegate registration fees. Appreciation was expressed for Conference offerings that amounted to $47,440 this year.
The council received a report on the move of the Annual Conference Office to the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., which was completed on schedule Aug. 28.
The council will meet next on Nov. 28-29 at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md.
Source: 9/13/2006 Newsline
The Annual Conference Council elected Ron Beachley, immediate past moderator of Annual Conference, to chair the council for the 2006-07 year. Beachley presided over the council's meeting Aug. 16-17 at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., according to a report from Conference secretary Fred Swartz.
A major portion of meeting time was spent reviewing business actions of the 2006 Annual Conference held in Des Moines, Iowa, in July, and identifying agencies or people for follow up of decisions. The council also heard a report from the Conference secretary on a communication requesting the five Annual Conference agencies to name representatives to the Program Feasibility Study Committee--the group that will study the "Doing Church Business" recommendations to the 2006 Conference.
In other business, the council studied a report from the Annual Conference marketing ministry team advising the group to look at systemic issues that affect Conference attendance including diminishing and aging membership; increase in bi-vocational congregational leadership; growing numbers of pastors with little interest in keeping congregations connected with the denomination; and threatening divisions in the denomination.
In a related matter, the council addressed its Conference-assigned responsibility to collaborate in envisioning for the denomination with the Standing Committee of district delegates. Council members identified several "broad strokes of vision" for the church including developing missions and mission leaders, including overseas mission, congregational renewal, and new church development; calling vital and loyal Brethren leadership; calling and growing disciples; and nurturing vital worship. These ideas have been conveyed to the envisioning subcommittee of Standing Committee, with the intention that both the subcommittee and the council will work at developing strategies, Swartz reported.
The council expressed appreciation to executive director Lerry Fogle and the Annual Conference Office assistants for the achievement of many goals in the Conference's strategic plan. The group reviewed the mission, vision, and core values of the Conference and reaffirmed their validity.
Funding streams for Annual Conference demanded considerable discussion time for the council, as registrations for the 2006 Conference fell considerably below the projected mark, Swartz said. There were more than 100 fewer delegates in 2006 than were hoped for, he said. One of the principal means of support for Annual Conference comes from delegate registration fees. Appreciation was expressed for Conference offerings that amounted to $47,440 this year.
The council received a report on the move of the Annual Conference Office to the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., which was completed on schedule Aug. 28.
The council will meet next on Nov. 28-29 at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md.
Source: 9/13/2006 Newsline
Disaster staff reflect on Hurricane Katrina, one year later.
Church of the Brethren Disaster Response continues to rebuild and repair homes on the Gulf coast following the destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina a year ago. Aug. 29 marked the first anniversary of Katrina's heartrending devastation.
Although the storm made landfall in southeastern Louisiana, heavy damage can be found within a 100-mile radius of the storm's center in Mississippi and Alabama, as well as in Louisiana, reports Brethren Disaster Response, a program of the Church of the Brethren General Board. "The official death toll attributed to Katrina has climbed to 1,836, making Katrina the deadliest hurricane since 1928," said Jane Yount, Brethren Disaster Response coordinator, in a Sept. 1 update. "Katrina is also by far the costliest hurricane in US history, with $75 billion in damages. An estimated 350,000 homes were destroyed and many thousands more damaged."
"With the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina behind us, we are thankful for all the volunteers who have followed Jesus' call to be His hands and His feet," said Zach Wolgemuth, associate director of Emergency Response. "As we head into the second year since one of our nation's worst natural disasters, communities and longterm recovery organizations are organizing and beginning the process of rebuilding. The demand for the services provided by Church of the Brethren Disaster Response is great," he added.
Brethren Disaster Response is in the process of opening a new project site in Louisiana, and likely will open another site on the Gulf coast this winter, staff report. This is in addition to the current project site in Mississippi and one in Pensacola, Fla., following Hurricane Ivan in 2004 and Hurricane Dennis in 2005.
The new site in St. Tammany Parish, La., is scheduled to open Oct. 15. St. Tammany Parish is northeast of New Orleans on the shore of Lake Pontchartrain. "As a result of the rainfall and storm surge, the level of Lake Pontchartrain rose and caused significant flooding along its northeastern shore, affecting the town of Slidell and surrounding communities," Yount reported. Brethren Disaster Response has been in conversation with the longterm recovery committee in St. Tammany Parish--Northshore Recovery, Inc.--and the group is eager for assistance, Yount said. Work will include all types of major repairs to homes that have incurred flood and wind damage, along with some debris clean up and demolition.
Preparations are underway for two Brethren Disaster Response trainings for volunteer leadership this fall. Twenty-five people have responded to the invitation to attend hands-on, two-week trainings at Pensacola on Oct. 1-14 and at Lucedale on Oct. 22-Nov. 4. Participants will learn all aspects of managing a disaster response project including construction, safety, volunteer management, hospitality, and cooking; trainees will be prepared to take the roles of disaster project director, disaster project assistant, or household manager. For more information go to www.brethren.org/genbd/ersm.
Source: 9/13/2006 Newsline
Church of the Brethren Disaster Response continues to rebuild and repair homes on the Gulf coast following the destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina a year ago. Aug. 29 marked the first anniversary of Katrina's heartrending devastation.
Although the storm made landfall in southeastern Louisiana, heavy damage can be found within a 100-mile radius of the storm's center in Mississippi and Alabama, as well as in Louisiana, reports Brethren Disaster Response, a program of the Church of the Brethren General Board. "The official death toll attributed to Katrina has climbed to 1,836, making Katrina the deadliest hurricane since 1928," said Jane Yount, Brethren Disaster Response coordinator, in a Sept. 1 update. "Katrina is also by far the costliest hurricane in US history, with $75 billion in damages. An estimated 350,000 homes were destroyed and many thousands more damaged."
"With the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina behind us, we are thankful for all the volunteers who have followed Jesus' call to be His hands and His feet," said Zach Wolgemuth, associate director of Emergency Response. "As we head into the second year since one of our nation's worst natural disasters, communities and longterm recovery organizations are organizing and beginning the process of rebuilding. The demand for the services provided by Church of the Brethren Disaster Response is great," he added.
Brethren Disaster Response is in the process of opening a new project site in Louisiana, and likely will open another site on the Gulf coast this winter, staff report. This is in addition to the current project site in Mississippi and one in Pensacola, Fla., following Hurricane Ivan in 2004 and Hurricane Dennis in 2005.
The new site in St. Tammany Parish, La., is scheduled to open Oct. 15. St. Tammany Parish is northeast of New Orleans on the shore of Lake Pontchartrain. "As a result of the rainfall and storm surge, the level of Lake Pontchartrain rose and caused significant flooding along its northeastern shore, affecting the town of Slidell and surrounding communities," Yount reported. Brethren Disaster Response has been in conversation with the longterm recovery committee in St. Tammany Parish--Northshore Recovery, Inc.--and the group is eager for assistance, Yount said. Work will include all types of major repairs to homes that have incurred flood and wind damage, along with some debris clean up and demolition.
Preparations are underway for two Brethren Disaster Response trainings for volunteer leadership this fall. Twenty-five people have responded to the invitation to attend hands-on, two-week trainings at Pensacola on Oct. 1-14 and at Lucedale on Oct. 22-Nov. 4. Participants will learn all aspects of managing a disaster response project including construction, safety, volunteer management, hospitality, and cooking; trainees will be prepared to take the roles of disaster project director, disaster project assistant, or household manager. For more information go to www.brethren.org/genbd/ersm.
Source: 9/13/2006 Newsline
Brethren Volunteer Service unit begins service.
The 21 members of Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) Unit 270 have begun their terms of service. The Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., hosted the orientation unit from July 30-Aug. 18. The volunteers, home congregations or hometowns, and placements follow:
Phil Bohannon of Lampeter (Pa.) Church of the Brethren to Camp Alexander Mack in Milford, Ind. Nathan Fishman of New Brunswick, N.J., to Jubilee USA Network in Washington, D.C. Reike Flesch of Recklinghause, Germany, to Step 2 in Reno, Nev. Paula Hoffert of Lewiston (Minn.) Church of the Brethren to Boys Hope Girls Hope in Lenexa, Kan. Hanae Ikehata of Alzey, Germany, to Su Casa Catholic Worker House in Chicago, Ill. Anand Lehmann of Eppelheim, Germany, to Tri-City Homeless Coalition in Fremont, Calif. Lawreen McBride of Washington, D.C., not currently taking an assignment. Meredith Morckel of Springfield Church of the Brethren in Akron, Ohio, to Tri-City Homeless Coalition. Stan Morris of Sacramento, Calif., to AHEAD Energy Project in Rochester, N.Y. Will Morris of Charlottesville (Va.) Church of the Brethren to the Brethren Nutrition Program in Washington, D.C. Trevor Myers of Oakland Church of the Brethren in Bradford, Ohio, to Emergency Response/Service Ministries of the Church of the Brethren General Board. Emily O'Donnell of Green Tree Church of the Brethren in Oaks, Pa., to the Brethren Witness/Washington Office in Washington, D.C. Katie O'Donnell, also of Green Tree, to the Church of the Brethren in Brazil. Joe Parkinson of Collinsville, Ill., to San Antonio (Texas) Catholic Worker House. Benedikt Reinke of Ahnatal, Germany, to Lancaster (Pa.) Area Habitat for Humanity. Britta Schwab of Faith Community of the Brethren Home Church of the Brethren in New Oxford, Pa., to Gould Farm in Monterey, Mass. Tim Stauffer of Polo (Ill.) Church of the Brethren to Information Services of the General Board in Elgin, Ill. Barbara Tello of Minneapolis, Minn., to Chiapas Peace House in Chiapas, Mexico. Amy Waldron of Bloomington, Ind., exploring an assignment in Nigeria with Global Mission Partnerships of the Church of the Brethren General Board, to an interim assignment at Camp Courageous in Monticello, Iowa. Rachael Weber of Mountain View Church of the Brethren in McGaheysville, Va., to the World Student Christian Federation in Budapest, Hungary. Leah Yingling of Clover Creek Church of the Brethren in Fredericksburg, Pa., to Emanuel Children's Home in San Pedro Sula, Honduras.
For more information about BVS call the office at 800-323-8039, or visit www.brethrenvolunteerservice.org.
Source: 9/13/2006 Newsline
The 21 members of Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) Unit 270 have begun their terms of service. The Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., hosted the orientation unit from July 30-Aug. 18. The volunteers, home congregations or hometowns, and placements follow:
Phil Bohannon of Lampeter (Pa.) Church of the Brethren to Camp Alexander Mack in Milford, Ind. Nathan Fishman of New Brunswick, N.J., to Jubilee USA Network in Washington, D.C. Reike Flesch of Recklinghause, Germany, to Step 2 in Reno, Nev. Paula Hoffert of Lewiston (Minn.) Church of the Brethren to Boys Hope Girls Hope in Lenexa, Kan. Hanae Ikehata of Alzey, Germany, to Su Casa Catholic Worker House in Chicago, Ill. Anand Lehmann of Eppelheim, Germany, to Tri-City Homeless Coalition in Fremont, Calif. Lawreen McBride of Washington, D.C., not currently taking an assignment. Meredith Morckel of Springfield Church of the Brethren in Akron, Ohio, to Tri-City Homeless Coalition. Stan Morris of Sacramento, Calif., to AHEAD Energy Project in Rochester, N.Y. Will Morris of Charlottesville (Va.) Church of the Brethren to the Brethren Nutrition Program in Washington, D.C. Trevor Myers of Oakland Church of the Brethren in Bradford, Ohio, to Emergency Response/Service Ministries of the Church of the Brethren General Board. Emily O'Donnell of Green Tree Church of the Brethren in Oaks, Pa., to the Brethren Witness/Washington Office in Washington, D.C. Katie O'Donnell, also of Green Tree, to the Church of the Brethren in Brazil. Joe Parkinson of Collinsville, Ill., to San Antonio (Texas) Catholic Worker House. Benedikt Reinke of Ahnatal, Germany, to Lancaster (Pa.) Area Habitat for Humanity. Britta Schwab of Faith Community of the Brethren Home Church of the Brethren in New Oxford, Pa., to Gould Farm in Monterey, Mass. Tim Stauffer of Polo (Ill.) Church of the Brethren to Information Services of the General Board in Elgin, Ill. Barbara Tello of Minneapolis, Minn., to Chiapas Peace House in Chiapas, Mexico. Amy Waldron of Bloomington, Ind., exploring an assignment in Nigeria with Global Mission Partnerships of the Church of the Brethren General Board, to an interim assignment at Camp Courageous in Monticello, Iowa. Rachael Weber of Mountain View Church of the Brethren in McGaheysville, Va., to the World Student Christian Federation in Budapest, Hungary. Leah Yingling of Clover Creek Church of the Brethren in Fredericksburg, Pa., to Emanuel Children's Home in San Pedro Sula, Honduras.
For more information about BVS call the office at 800-323-8039, or visit www.brethrenvolunteerservice.org.
Source: 9/13/2006 Newsline
Michigan District Conference focuses on new mission opportunities.
Michigan District Conference on Aug. 10-13 was led by moderator Mary Gault on the theme, "Where There Is Love" (Romans 13:8-10). About 220 people registered for all or part of the conference in Hastings, Mich., reported district executive minister Marie Willoughby. In business sessions, some 70 delegates attended representing all 20 congregations in the district.
The conference opened with love feast, and Stephen Breck Reid, academic dean of Bethany Theological Seminary, was the speaker for worship throughout the rest of the weekend. The youth used the experience of National Youth Conference to lead an evening worship. The conference also included a concert by "Middletree," a group from New Life Christian Fellowship Church of the Brethren in Mount Pleasant, Mich.
Excitement centered on two new mission opportunities, Willoughby reported. "In January 2007 the New Life Christian Fellowship is opening a new church plant in the Saginaw Valley area, and invited everyone to become prayer partners in this vision and venture," she said. The district board gave New Life permission to contact district congregations for further support.
In a second venture at the urging of the Commission of Stewards, "a plan is beginning to see how the district can arrange for the New Harvest Christian Center, a Church of God in Christ, to more reasonably purchase the former Battle Creek building in which they are currently worshiping," Willoughby said. New Harvest pastor Ivan Lee made a personal visit to the conference, which discussed considering it a "mission" to find ways to assist the young congregation. No action was taken on the matter by the conference. New Harvest Christian Center has an average attendance of over 100, growing from just a handful a few months ago; 60 percent of attendees are children.
Delegates also approved a 2007 district budget of $89,750 and a camp budget of $71,650. A query on "Preventing Child Abuse and Neglect" was approved and will be passed on to Standing Committee, a committee of district delegates to the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference.
Insight sessions included one concerning the query, one led by the district's Multicultural Task Force, and an experience of the denominational study process "Together: Conversations on Being the Church."
Debbie Eisenbise, pastor at Skyridge Church of the Brethren in Kalamazoo, Mich., was chosen as moderator-elect. Lee Hannahs of Beaverton, Mich., was installed as moderator for 2007. Five new members were elected to the District Board including Mary Gault as chair. Frances Townsend, pastor of Onekama (Mich.) Church of the Brethren, was chosen as district representative to the General Board for 2007-2012.
Guests included Annual Conference moderator Belita Mitchell and her husband, Don Mitchell, who directed an impromptu choir during the Saturday evening Hymn Sing.
Source: 9/13/2006 Newsline
Michigan District Conference on Aug. 10-13 was led by moderator Mary Gault on the theme, "Where There Is Love" (Romans 13:8-10). About 220 people registered for all or part of the conference in Hastings, Mich., reported district executive minister Marie Willoughby. In business sessions, some 70 delegates attended representing all 20 congregations in the district.
The conference opened with love feast, and Stephen Breck Reid, academic dean of Bethany Theological Seminary, was the speaker for worship throughout the rest of the weekend. The youth used the experience of National Youth Conference to lead an evening worship. The conference also included a concert by "Middletree," a group from New Life Christian Fellowship Church of the Brethren in Mount Pleasant, Mich.
Excitement centered on two new mission opportunities, Willoughby reported. "In January 2007 the New Life Christian Fellowship is opening a new church plant in the Saginaw Valley area, and invited everyone to become prayer partners in this vision and venture," she said. The district board gave New Life permission to contact district congregations for further support.
In a second venture at the urging of the Commission of Stewards, "a plan is beginning to see how the district can arrange for the New Harvest Christian Center, a Church of God in Christ, to more reasonably purchase the former Battle Creek building in which they are currently worshiping," Willoughby said. New Harvest pastor Ivan Lee made a personal visit to the conference, which discussed considering it a "mission" to find ways to assist the young congregation. No action was taken on the matter by the conference. New Harvest Christian Center has an average attendance of over 100, growing from just a handful a few months ago; 60 percent of attendees are children.
Delegates also approved a 2007 district budget of $89,750 and a camp budget of $71,650. A query on "Preventing Child Abuse and Neglect" was approved and will be passed on to Standing Committee, a committee of district delegates to the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference.
Insight sessions included one concerning the query, one led by the district's Multicultural Task Force, and an experience of the denominational study process "Together: Conversations on Being the Church."
Debbie Eisenbise, pastor at Skyridge Church of the Brethren in Kalamazoo, Mich., was chosen as moderator-elect. Lee Hannahs of Beaverton, Mich., was installed as moderator for 2007. Five new members were elected to the District Board including Mary Gault as chair. Frances Townsend, pastor of Onekama (Mich.) Church of the Brethren, was chosen as district representative to the General Board for 2007-2012.
Guests included Annual Conference moderator Belita Mitchell and her husband, Don Mitchell, who directed an impromptu choir during the Saturday evening Hymn Sing.
Source: 9/13/2006 Newsline
Brethren bits: Personnel, jobs, Caring Ministries Assembly, and more.
- Robert Raker, Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) worker and mission staff with the General Board's Global Mission Partnerships, completes two years of service in the Dominican Republic this month. He is a member of Greencastle (Pa.) Church of the Brethren and has been teaching English as a second language in the DR.
- Several programs of the Church of the Brethren General Board are welcoming new fulltime volunteers through BVS. Todd Flory began Sept. 11 as assistant to the director of BVS; he is a member of McPherson (Kan.) Church of the Brethren and recently completed a year of volunteer service at the Brethren Witness/Washington Office. Hannah Kliewer begins Sept. 18 as orientation assistant for BVS; she has completed a year of service at the Center on Conscience and War in Washington, D.C. Trevor Myers began with Brethren Disaster Response on Aug. 18; he is a member of Oakland Church of the Brethren in Bradford, Ohio, and will be assigned to a repair and rebuilding site in Pensacola, Fla. Emily O'Donnell has begun at the Brethren Witness/Washington Office as a legislative associate; she is a member of Green Tree Church of the Brethren in Oaks, Pa. Amy Rhodes has begun with the Youth and Young Adult Ministry Office as an assistant workcamp coordinator; she is from Roanoke, Va. Monica Rice began Sept. 11 as recruiter for BVS; she is a member of Springfield Church of the Brethren in Akron, Ohio, and recently completed a year with the Youth and Young Adult Office. In addition, Sue Snyder began Sept. 11 as a part-time program volunteer with BVS; she is a former General Board staff member who has served seven years in BVS at St. Mary's Westside Food Bank in Surprise, Ariz.
- The National Council of Churches is publicizing two job openings: an associate general secretary for Administration and Finance; and a communication officer for its Washington Office. The associate general secretary provides executive leadership as the Chief Financial Officer for financial and business management; qualifications include, among many others, 10 years of experience as a financial administrator in a nonprofit agency, comprehensive understanding of administrative and financial operations, and experience in a denominational office or local or regional council of churches; location in New York. The communications position is in the joint Washington office of the NCC and Church World Service, and requires a generalist in the fields of journalism and public relations to provide general communication support to the NCC office in Washington and, as assigned, to other NCC departments and the Washington offices of member communions; qualifications include a college degree in journalism, public relations, marketing, or communication-related field with seminary training a plus, five years of experience in the field of media relations, journalism, radio or television broadcast production, or related field. Position descriptions and full details for applicants are at www.ncccusa.org/jobs/jobshome.html.
- An executive director for the Indianapolis Peace House is sought to lead the consortial "study away" program operated by Manchester, Earlham, and Goshen Colleges in Indiana, beginning no later than Nov. 15. Peace House students engage in cooperative living, academic coursework, and internships in urban organizations, with a focus on peacemaking and social justice. This is the fourth year of a five-year program funded by the Lilly Endowment. The executive director is responsible for overseeing the house and developing a comprehensive plan for moving it towardsustainable independence after grant support ends in June 2008. Qualifications include commitment to peace and justice coupled with relevant knowledge and experience; history of success in strategic and consultative leadership and effective administration; background and skills in recruitment, advancement, marketing, public relations; entrepreneurial acumen and organizational abilities for program assessment; record of effective interaction with young adults; human relations skills; successful record of budget and facilities management; communication skills; self-motivation and goal orientation. An appreciation of the historic peace churches and of developmental theory as related to college students enhances candidate strength. Working understanding of nonprofit sector internships, college and university academic systems, and college study-away programs is desired. Experience in teaching and curriculum development is a plus. Respect for personal and institutional diversities is expected. A collaborative problem-solver is needed for this position. A doctorate or master's degree in a related field is preferred. Review of applications begins Sept. 15. Send applications to Dr. Nelson E. Bingham, Special Assistant to the President, Drawer #55, Earlham College, Richmond, IN 47374-4095. Equal Opportunity Employer. For more information go to www.plowsharesproject.org/php/peacehouse/index.ph.
- BVS holds its fall orientation unit from Sept. 24-Oct. 13 at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. This will be the 272nd unit for BVS, and will be made up of 19 volunteers from across the US and Germany. A majority are members of the Church of the Brethren. A potluck with the unit is open to all those who are interested on Sept. 30, at 6:30 p.m. at Union Bridge (Md.) Church of the Brethren. For more information call 800-323-8039 ext. 423.
- The Ministry of Reconciliation (MOR) of On Earth Peace, and Mid Atlantic District are co-sponsoring a training for Shalom Team members featuring design of reconciliation processes and group facilitation. This training will introduce Shalom Team members to congregational conflict intervention and provide solid tools for consultation. All eastern districts are invited to participate. The event takes place Nov. 17-18 in New Windsor, Md. Leadership is provided by Bob Gross, co-director of On Earth Peace. Cost is $50 for each Shalom Team member or $100 for an entire team. Continuing education credit is available through the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership. Registration deadline is Oct. 20. To register or for more information, contact Annie Clark, MOR coordinator, at annieclark@mchsi.com.
- Several district conferences are held this weekend: Northern Indiana meets at Camp Alexander Mack; South/Central Indiana at Salamonie Church of the Brethren in Warren, Ind.; Missouri-Arkansas at Camp Windermere in Roach, Mo.; Southern Pennsylvania at New Fairview Church of the Brethren in York, Pa.; and West Marva at Moorefield (W.Va.) Church of the Brethren.
- The annual Brethren Disaster Relief Auction in Lebanon, Pa., marks its 30th anniversary this year. Events are held at the Lebanon County Fairgrounds Sept. 22-24. The auction sponsored jointly by Atlantic Northeast District and Southern Pennsylvania District is the largest of the Brethren disaster auctions. Duane Ness chairs the board of directors. A portion of the funds raised benefits the Emergency Disaster Fund of the Church of the Brethren General Board. This year, attendees will be challenged to the goal of assembling 30,000 Gift of the Heart Health Kits. Events begin 9 a.m. Friday, Sept. 22, with baked goods stands and a farmer's market--with lots of other food available throughout the weekend. Auctions include a heifer auction, a livestock auction, a pole barn auction, a quilt auction, and general auctions. Gift of the Heart kit building begins at 8 a.m. Saturday. A hymn sing and orchestra closes the weekend at 5:30 p.m. Sunday. For a detailed schedule go to www.brethrenauction.org.
- "Springs of Living Water!" a church renewal breakfast, will be held at Lancaster (Pa.) Church of the Brethren on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 8-11:45 a.m. The event will include leadership training for church renewal, biblical inspiration, and testimonies of churches in renewal. "In 'Springs of Living Water!' a church enters a spiritual journey and is trained in servant leadership to be a healthy church with an urgent, Christ-centered mission," explained leader David Young. Child care will be provided. RSVP by Sept. 23 to davidyoung@churchrenewalservant.org or 717-738-1887. For more information go to www.churchrenewalservant.org.
- Peggy Gish, a Church of the Brethren member who has been working in Iraq with Christian Peacemaker Teams, will speak at Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin, Ill., on Sept. 16, at 7:30 p.m. Childcare will be provided; the children will make peace pinwheels to place on the church lawn as a witness on the International Day of Prayer for Peace Sept. 21.
- Camp Harmony in Hooversville, Pa., is holding its 24th Annual Brethren Heritage Festival on Sept. 16, from 10 a.m.-5p.m. The event is co-sponsored by Western Pennsylvania District. Meals, booths, entertainment, Lizzie's Attic and Jacob's Shed sales of collectibles and antiques, a quilt auction and basket auction, pastor's bake off, pie eating contest, farmer's market, and children's activities will be offered. For more go to www.campharmony.org/brethren_heritage/index.html.
- Bridgewater (Va.) College's Constitution Day celebration features a presentation by Donald B. Kraybill, nationally recognized expert on Anabaptist groups, on "Cultural Clash: Amish Conflicts with the State," at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 18 in Cole Hall. Paul Grout, moderator of the 2001 Church of the Brethren Annual Conference, will speak for the college's Fall Spiritual Focus on Sept. 26. During the 9:30 a.m. convocation, Grout will speak on "Jesus as Warrior," and at 7:30 p.m. his topic will be "Jesus as Mystic Monk." For more go to www.bridgewater.edu.
- Ending hunger is the topic of a National Council of Churches (NCC) television documentary, "Hunger No More: Faces Behind the Facts." The one-hour special was made available to NBC television network affiliates beginning Sept. 10. The documentary approaches hunger from the perspective of faith, declaring that it is more than a social issue. Howard Royer, manager of the Global Food Crisis Fund for the Church of the Brethren General Board, noted that the program may be a good resource for World Food Day on Oct. 16. A study guide is available at www.councilofchurches.org/hunger.
- Church leaders from Sudan have issued a statement listing current priorities for their country, including the merger of the two councils of churches--the Sudan Council of Churches in the north and the New Sudan Council of Churches in the south. The Church of the Brethren has worked with both councils. The statement affirmed the peace agreement reached between the government of Sudan and southern rebel groups in Jan. 2005, and the Darfur peace process under the African Union, but also noted isolation of churches in the implementation of the peace agreement, expressed concern about escalation of fighting in Darfur and eastern Sudan and the internally displaced refugees, and called for acceptance of a United Nations peacekeeping force in Darfur. "We the Sudanese Heads of Churches commit our churches to fully support the unity of the people of Sudan and to walk together as one ecumenical family. We urge our partners/donors and the rest of the global ecumenical family to continue accompanying us in the task of rebuilding Sudan," the statement said. The church leaders made the statement during a meeting in Kenya Aug. 17-19 under the auspices of the All Africa Conference of Churches and the World Council of Churches.
Del Keeney resigns from General Board's Congregational Life Ministries.
Del Keeney, executive director of Congregational Life Ministries for the Church of the Brethren General Board, has announced his resignation effective Dec. 31. He has accepted a call to pastor Mechanicsburg (Pa.) Church of the Brethren, where he will begin on Jan. 1, 2007.
Keeney began working with the board in Jan. 2004. Through the Congregational Life Ministries position, he served on the board's Leadership Team and served the denomination in the care and support of its congregations. During his time with the board, he worked both from the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., and from his home in Pennsylvania.
With more than 20 years of pastoral ministry experience, Keeney has served in both longterm ministries and in intentional interim positions. His return to this work continues his commitment to the health and vitality of Brethren congregations. He also has been a trainer in The Creative Church Leader Program and holds a variety of certifications pertaining to the development of church leadership. He has taught and co-taught academy-level classes for Bethany Theological Seminary and the Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center, and holds degrees from the seminary and from Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind.
Source: 9/13/2006 Newsline
Del Keeney, executive director of Congregational Life Ministries for the Church of the Brethren General Board, has announced his resignation effective Dec. 31. He has accepted a call to pastor Mechanicsburg (Pa.) Church of the Brethren, where he will begin on Jan. 1, 2007.
Keeney began working with the board in Jan. 2004. Through the Congregational Life Ministries position, he served on the board's Leadership Team and served the denomination in the care and support of its congregations. During his time with the board, he worked both from the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., and from his home in Pennsylvania.
With more than 20 years of pastoral ministry experience, Keeney has served in both longterm ministries and in intentional interim positions. His return to this work continues his commitment to the health and vitality of Brethren congregations. He also has been a trainer in The Creative Church Leader Program and holds a variety of certifications pertaining to the development of church leadership. He has taught and co-taught academy-level classes for Bethany Theological Seminary and the Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center, and holds degrees from the seminary and from Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind.
Source: 9/13/2006 Newsline
Jay Wittmeyer to join Brethren Benefit Trust as publications manager.
Jay Wittmeyer begins Oct. 30 as manager of publications for Brethren Benefit Trust. In this role, he will have daily oversight of BBT's printed materials such as newsletters, press releases, and website; will serve on the Communications Team helping to create new marketing materials and plan communications initiatives; and will be one of BBT's senior writers and editors.
Since 2004, Wittmeyer has served as assistant director of Lombard (Ill.) Mennonite Peace Center. From 1996-99, he worked for Mennonite Central Committee in Bangladesh as a community development officer. From 2000-04, he again served the MCC in Nepal as project director of a community health project, and as organization development facilitator at a hospital. He also has taught adult education and English as a second language.
Wittmeyer holds a bachelor's degree in English education and master's degrees in teaching English as a second language and conflict transformation. He currently is enrolled in the Church of the Brethren's Training in Ministry program. He and his family live in Elgin and are members of Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren.
Source: 9/13/2006 Newsline
Jay Wittmeyer begins Oct. 30 as manager of publications for Brethren Benefit Trust. In this role, he will have daily oversight of BBT's printed materials such as newsletters, press releases, and website; will serve on the Communications Team helping to create new marketing materials and plan communications initiatives; and will be one of BBT's senior writers and editors.
Since 2004, Wittmeyer has served as assistant director of Lombard (Ill.) Mennonite Peace Center. From 1996-99, he worked for Mennonite Central Committee in Bangladesh as a community development officer. From 2000-04, he again served the MCC in Nepal as project director of a community health project, and as organization development facilitator at a hospital. He also has taught adult education and English as a second language.
Wittmeyer holds a bachelor's degree in English education and master's degrees in teaching English as a second language and conflict transformation. He currently is enrolled in the Church of the Brethren's Training in Ministry program. He and his family live in Elgin and are members of Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren.
Source: 9/13/2006 Newsline
World Mission Offering invites, 'Come walk with us.'
The 2006 World Mission Offering emphasis for the Church of the Brethren General Board invites congregations and church members to "Come walk with us in mission." The offering is designed to foster and deepen ties between Brethren mission workers and congregations. The suggested date for World Mission Sunday is Oct. 8, but materials are not tied to the date.
"Our gifts to mission work are an amazing way for us to 'walk the talk,'" said Carol Bowman, the board's stewardship development counselor. "This is the full circle of faithfulness: discipleship, stewardship, and evangelism."
Free resources include a new world map showing Brethren global connections, a bulletin insert, offering envelope, and worship resources in English and Spanish. To access resources, including background slides to use in a power point or other media presentation, go to www.brethren.org/genbd/funding/opportun/WorldMission.htm. For more information and additional resources about Church of the Brethren missions, call 800-323-8039 ext. 227.
Source: 9/13/2006 Newsline
The 2006 World Mission Offering emphasis for the Church of the Brethren General Board invites congregations and church members to "Come walk with us in mission." The offering is designed to foster and deepen ties between Brethren mission workers and congregations. The suggested date for World Mission Sunday is Oct. 8, but materials are not tied to the date.
"Our gifts to mission work are an amazing way for us to 'walk the talk,'" said Carol Bowman, the board's stewardship development counselor. "This is the full circle of faithfulness: discipleship, stewardship, and evangelism."
Free resources include a new world map showing Brethren global connections, a bulletin insert, offering envelope, and worship resources in English and Spanish. To access resources, including background slides to use in a power point or other media presentation, go to www.brethren.org/genbd/funding/opportun/WorldMission.htm. For more information and additional resources about Church of the Brethren missions, call 800-323-8039 ext. 227.
Source: 9/13/2006 Newsline
Registration begins for 2007 Cross Cultural Consultation.
Registration has opened for the Church of the Brethren's next Cross Cultural Consultation and Celebration, to be held April 19-22, 2007, at the New Windsor (Md.) Conference Center. Registrations are due Dec. 1. Registration materials are available in English and Spanish at www.brethren.org, click on key word "Cross Cultural Ministries."
"Because this event will be held at a conference center for the first time, there will be some differences from previous years, including our housing and meal arrangements," reported Duane Grady, staff for the event and a Congregational Life Team member for the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Meals will be served by the conference center; cost per meal will range from $7 to $11. Options for housing include lodging on campus for a fee ranging from $43.50 to $65.50 per person per night. In addition, there will be an option of staying in homes, with hosts asked to provide breakfast and transportation each day to the conference center.
Other changes based on evaluations from the 2006 consultation include more time for small group discussion and Bible studies. Said Grady, "We are also excited that the On Earth Peace Board will be meeting in New Windsor during our gathering and they will be joining us for parts of our event."
Source: 9/13/2006 Newsline
Registration has opened for the Church of the Brethren's next Cross Cultural Consultation and Celebration, to be held April 19-22, 2007, at the New Windsor (Md.) Conference Center. Registrations are due Dec. 1. Registration materials are available in English and Spanish at www.brethren.org, click on key word "Cross Cultural Ministries."
"Because this event will be held at a conference center for the first time, there will be some differences from previous years, including our housing and meal arrangements," reported Duane Grady, staff for the event and a Congregational Life Team member for the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Meals will be served by the conference center; cost per meal will range from $7 to $11. Options for housing include lodging on campus for a fee ranging from $43.50 to $65.50 per person per night. In addition, there will be an option of staying in homes, with hosts asked to provide breakfast and transportation each day to the conference center.
Other changes based on evaluations from the 2006 consultation include more time for small group discussion and Bible studies. Said Grady, "We are also excited that the On Earth Peace Board will be meeting in New Windsor during our gathering and they will be joining us for parts of our event."
Source: 9/13/2006 Newsline
Remember the peacemakers.
By David Whitten
I was feeling rather full after leaving Rev. Anthony Ndumsai's home in Jos, Nigeria. I had been invited to a meal with the family of seven. Ndumsai has not received a salary in four months. That didn't stop him from inviting me as their guest for supper. From the looks of things in the pot, I knew they went to the market to purchase meat and spaghetti to prepare as fine a meal as was possible under the circumstances. Nigerians are a gracious people. It is humbling to be on the receiving end of such hospitality.
During our meal together, he told me a story that I want to share with you.
Just days before our own tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, interreligious violence erupted in this otherwise peaceful city. More than 2,000 people were bludgeoned, hacked, and burned to death. Tensions ran high between Christians and Muslims.
After the initial eruption of violence, there came a quiet that lay over the city. A Muslim man and his two sons had been holed up in their home, fearful to venture out. They ran out of food. The father told his two sons, ages 13 and 11, to go to their farm and bring back some corn to eat.
The farm lay adjacent to the Theological College of Northern Nigeria (TCNN). While the boys were out on their farm, they were spotted by a Christian driving by. The man drove to TCNN and told the Christian theological students that these two boys were spies sent out to find a way to attack the students.
Many of the students armed with machetes and sticks rushed out and threw the two small boys to the ground, stripped them of their clothes, and began to beat them. The man who had the car left, returning with a can of gasoline and matches. He encouraged the students to burn these children to ashes in retaliation for the many Christians who had lost their lives at the hands of Muslims.
Several students who were members of Ekklesiyar Yan'uwa Nigeria (EYN the Church of Brethren in Nigeria), including Ndumsai, ran out to see the horror unfolding. They stood between the other Christian students and the two small Muslim boys. The Brethren students refused to let the others act out their plan for vengeance.
After much heated debate, the flames of retaliation cooled and soon only the EYN students remained with the two Muslim boys. The boys filled their sacks with corn and returned home to where their anxious father waited.
Ndumsai did not tell me this story out of pride for a deed well done. He told me the story because of the epiphany he experienced during the incident. He became convinced of the power of nonviolence, confirming for him that the teachings of Jesus about peace were meant to be practiced. He turned to embrace the faith and practices of the Church of the Brethren on pacifism.
Rev. Ndumsai is currently in seminary, finishing his master's degree. His thesis is on the theology of pacifism as interpreted by the Church of the Brethren.
After returning home from the Ndumsai home, I had a lot to digest. There are many stories of Muslims saving Christians, and Christians saving Muslims, during the crisis in Jos on Sept. 7, 2001. It is time to hear at least one of these stories.
--David Whitten is Nigeria mission coordinator for the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Source: 9/13/2006 Newsline
By David Whitten
I was feeling rather full after leaving Rev. Anthony Ndumsai's home in Jos, Nigeria. I had been invited to a meal with the family of seven. Ndumsai has not received a salary in four months. That didn't stop him from inviting me as their guest for supper. From the looks of things in the pot, I knew they went to the market to purchase meat and spaghetti to prepare as fine a meal as was possible under the circumstances. Nigerians are a gracious people. It is humbling to be on the receiving end of such hospitality.
During our meal together, he told me a story that I want to share with you.
Just days before our own tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, interreligious violence erupted in this otherwise peaceful city. More than 2,000 people were bludgeoned, hacked, and burned to death. Tensions ran high between Christians and Muslims.
After the initial eruption of violence, there came a quiet that lay over the city. A Muslim man and his two sons had been holed up in their home, fearful to venture out. They ran out of food. The father told his two sons, ages 13 and 11, to go to their farm and bring back some corn to eat.
The farm lay adjacent to the Theological College of Northern Nigeria (TCNN). While the boys were out on their farm, they were spotted by a Christian driving by. The man drove to TCNN and told the Christian theological students that these two boys were spies sent out to find a way to attack the students.
Many of the students armed with machetes and sticks rushed out and threw the two small boys to the ground, stripped them of their clothes, and began to beat them. The man who had the car left, returning with a can of gasoline and matches. He encouraged the students to burn these children to ashes in retaliation for the many Christians who had lost their lives at the hands of Muslims.
Several students who were members of Ekklesiyar Yan'uwa Nigeria (EYN the Church of Brethren in Nigeria), including Ndumsai, ran out to see the horror unfolding. They stood between the other Christian students and the two small Muslim boys. The Brethren students refused to let the others act out their plan for vengeance.
After much heated debate, the flames of retaliation cooled and soon only the EYN students remained with the two Muslim boys. The boys filled their sacks with corn and returned home to where their anxious father waited.
Ndumsai did not tell me this story out of pride for a deed well done. He told me the story because of the epiphany he experienced during the incident. He became convinced of the power of nonviolence, confirming for him that the teachings of Jesus about peace were meant to be practiced. He turned to embrace the faith and practices of the Church of the Brethren on pacifism.
Rev. Ndumsai is currently in seminary, finishing his master's degree. His thesis is on the theology of pacifism as interpreted by the Church of the Brethren.
After returning home from the Ndumsai home, I had a lot to digest. There are many stories of Muslims saving Christians, and Christians saving Muslims, during the crisis in Jos on Sept. 7, 2001. It is time to hear at least one of these stories.
--David Whitten is Nigeria mission coordinator for the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Source: 9/13/2006 Newsline
Credits
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board. Contact the editor at cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. Nevin Dulabaum, Karin Krog, Janis Pyle, Becky Snavely, Fred Swartz, Marie Willoughby, and Jane Yount contributed to this report.
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board. Contact the editor at cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. Nevin Dulabaum, Karin Krog, Janis Pyle, Becky Snavely, Fred Swartz, Marie Willoughby, and Jane Yount contributed to this report.
Monday, September 11, 2006
Use this anniversary as an opportunity for unity and hope, says Brethren Witness/Washington Office.
The Brethren Witness/Washington Office has extended an invitation to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in New York and Washington by remembering 100 years of Gandhian nonviolence. Coincidentally, today also is the 100th anniversary of the start of Mahatma Gandhi's nonviolent work.
The office called on Brethren to take the opportunity to celebrate "interfaith unity and hope on a day often recognized for revenge and despair," in a recent Action Alert.
Brethren Witness/Washington Office director Phil Jones is taking part today in a 9/11/06 Unity Walk in New York City sponsored by Religions for Peace-USA, an interfaith nonprofit organization that works to foster religious communities working together to build a society of peace and justice. The walk is co-sponsored by 911 Unity Walk, a grassroots interfaith movement that creates ways for people of all faiths or of no faith tradition to walk together in a transformative remembrance of 9/11.
The Church of the Brethren is an active member of Religions for Peace-USA; Jones recently returned from an international conference in Japan held by the parent organization, the VIIIth Assembly of Religions for Peace, held in Kyoto on Aug. 26-29.
The New York City Unity Walk is set to convene at 5 p.m. this evening beginning at the Union Square Park Gandhi Memorial. Participants will walk three miles to the World Trade Center site, stopping for music and prayer at diverse houses of worship along the way--among others the Eldridge Street Project, a historic Jewish temple; Mahayanna Buddhist Temple; Nur Ashki Jerrahi Sufi Order, a mosque; and a closing ceremony at St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church.
From the World Trade Center site, participants are encouraged to join the New York Buddhist Church on Pier 40 for a 9/11 Memorial Floating Lantern Ceremony in the Hudson River, scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m.
Scheduled speakers and performers include Salman Ahmad, a Pakistani rock musician and UN Goodwill Ambassador; Rabbi Yitz Greenberg, president of the Jewish Life Network; Imam Mahdi Bray, executive director of the Muslim American Society Freedom Foundation; Preeta Bansal, commissioner of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom; Chloe Breyer, board member of Episcopalians for Global Reconciliation; and Bud Heckman, executive director of Religions for Peace-USA.
"If you are not able to participate in New York you are encouraged to plan or participate in local events that prayerfully remember the violence of 9/11 and our response as global citizens of peace. Please contact our office with reports of such events," said the alert from the Brethren Witness/Washington Office.
For more about the unity walk in New York go to www.911unitywalk.org. For more about the Brethren Witness/Washington Office, a ministry of the Church of the Brethren General Board, go to www.brethren.org/genbd/WitnessWashOffice.html.
Source: 9/11/2006 Newsline
The Brethren Witness/Washington Office has extended an invitation to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in New York and Washington by remembering 100 years of Gandhian nonviolence. Coincidentally, today also is the 100th anniversary of the start of Mahatma Gandhi's nonviolent work.
The office called on Brethren to take the opportunity to celebrate "interfaith unity and hope on a day often recognized for revenge and despair," in a recent Action Alert.
Brethren Witness/Washington Office director Phil Jones is taking part today in a 9/11/06 Unity Walk in New York City sponsored by Religions for Peace-USA, an interfaith nonprofit organization that works to foster religious communities working together to build a society of peace and justice. The walk is co-sponsored by 911 Unity Walk, a grassroots interfaith movement that creates ways for people of all faiths or of no faith tradition to walk together in a transformative remembrance of 9/11.
The Church of the Brethren is an active member of Religions for Peace-USA; Jones recently returned from an international conference in Japan held by the parent organization, the VIIIth Assembly of Religions for Peace, held in Kyoto on Aug. 26-29.
The New York City Unity Walk is set to convene at 5 p.m. this evening beginning at the Union Square Park Gandhi Memorial. Participants will walk three miles to the World Trade Center site, stopping for music and prayer at diverse houses of worship along the way--among others the Eldridge Street Project, a historic Jewish temple; Mahayanna Buddhist Temple; Nur Ashki Jerrahi Sufi Order, a mosque; and a closing ceremony at St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church.
From the World Trade Center site, participants are encouraged to join the New York Buddhist Church on Pier 40 for a 9/11 Memorial Floating Lantern Ceremony in the Hudson River, scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m.
Scheduled speakers and performers include Salman Ahmad, a Pakistani rock musician and UN Goodwill Ambassador; Rabbi Yitz Greenberg, president of the Jewish Life Network; Imam Mahdi Bray, executive director of the Muslim American Society Freedom Foundation; Preeta Bansal, commissioner of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom; Chloe Breyer, board member of Episcopalians for Global Reconciliation; and Bud Heckman, executive director of Religions for Peace-USA.
"If you are not able to participate in New York you are encouraged to plan or participate in local events that prayerfully remember the violence of 9/11 and our response as global citizens of peace. Please contact our office with reports of such events," said the alert from the Brethren Witness/Washington Office.
For more about the unity walk in New York go to www.911unitywalk.org. For more about the Brethren Witness/Washington Office, a ministry of the Church of the Brethren General Board, go to www.brethren.org/genbd/WitnessWashOffice.html.
Source: 9/11/2006 Newsline
Brethren bits.
- Pastor Bob Johnson of Blue Ridge Chapel Church of the Brethren in
Waynesboro, Va., spoke to the "News Leader" newspaper in Staunton, Va., about his experience as one of the chaplains at Ground Zero in New York. Go to http://www.newsleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060908/LIFESTYLE20/609080317/1064/LIFESTYLE to find an article titled, "Emotion of 9/11 lingers with chaplain"; go to http://www.newsleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060910/NEWS01/609100340/1002 for a follow-up piece, "In tragedy, the human spirit prevails."
Brethren resources offer a 'Way of Peace' on 9/11 anniversaries.
Sept. 11 worship resources for Brethren congregations are available at the "Way of Peace" website at www.brethren.org/genbd/BP/WayOfPeace/resources.htm Although the resources were collected and posted for previous year's 9/11 remembrances, they are still fresh and helpful for Brethren who are seeking to remember and keep in prayer the Sept. 11 events.
Among the worship resources available at the website are prayer services, services of remembrance, prayers, litanies, children's stories, and suggested hymns.
The website also offers "Messenger" magazine articles from Oct. and Nov. 2001, peace resources including sermons and ecumenical statements, and a resource giving advice to parents to help children cope with the news of terrorism and war that prevade the media.
Source: 9/11/2006 Newsline
Sept. 11 worship resources for Brethren congregations are available at the "Way of Peace" website at www.brethren.org/genbd/BP/WayOfPeace/resources.htm Although the resources were collected and posted for previous year's 9/11 remembrances, they are still fresh and helpful for Brethren who are seeking to remember and keep in prayer the Sept. 11 events.
Among the worship resources available at the website are prayer services, services of remembrance, prayers, litanies, children's stories, and suggested hymns.
The website also offers "Messenger" magazine articles from Oct. and Nov. 2001, peace resources including sermons and ecumenical statements, and a resource giving advice to parents to help children cope with the news of terrorism and war that prevade the media.
Source: 9/11/2006 Newsline
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