- Trust is created to help preserve John Kline homestead.
- Brethren Volunteer Service Unit 272 begins work.
- Atlantic Northeast District Conference meets on ‘Together’ theme.
- MAX supports denominational wellness ministry.
- Colorado Brethren and Mennonite youth join for retreat.
- Brethren bits: Remembrances, personnel, job openings, and more.
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
NEWS
Trust is created to help preserve John Kline homestead.
A John Kline Homestead Preservation Trust has been created in hopes of preserving the home of Elder John Kline, a leader of the Brethren during the Civil War. The trust's steering committee is holding a meeting Nov. 11 at 2 p.m. at nearby Linville Creek Church of the Brethren in Broadway, Va., to determine whether there is widespread interest among the Brethren to preserve the homestead.
The historic home has recently become available for purchase. The home was owned and occupied by a Mennonite family for seven generations, and now the family proposes to sell the property, according to a letter from the temporary steering committee.
Local Brethren leaders have formed the trust to consider plans for preserving the remaining 10 acres of the original John Kline farm, according to Linville Creek pastor Paul Roth. They have extended their right of first refusal to a Mennonite financial institution (Park View Federal Credit Union) of Harrisonburg, Va., as an initial effort to keep the property from being sold to developers.
At the Nov. 11 gathering, the agreement with the credit union to purchase some four acres of the homestead--including the 1822 house, spring house/summer kitchen, smoke house, and carriage house--on behalf of the Brethren will be shared. The credit union plans to construct a branch office on an acre of the southwest corner of the land in future years. The remaining five-plus acres will be negotiated for purchase at a later time, Roth said.
A video of the house and property will be shown at the meeting, along with a PowerPoint presentation. Those who attend will be invited to make contributions to purchase the property from the credit union and to establish an endowment to develop the site as a John Kline interpretive center. The local Brethren also will seek counsel for developing a founding board of directors and envisioning further preservation of and programming on the site, Roth said. Following the meeting there will be opportunity to visit the John Kline homestead.
"This is a blessed opportunity to preserve the Elder John Kline house from likely destruction for development. The time is urgent!" read the letter of invitation.
The home was built in 1822 as the first home of Elder John and Anna Wampler Kline. It also served as one of the three original meetinghouses of Linville Creek church. "From here Elder Kline embarked on missionary journeys to western Virginia, facilitated the 1837 Annual Meeting at nearby Linville Creek Church (erected on land he donated), traveled to Brethren congregations as Annual Meeting Moderator during the Civil War, and only a few miles from where he was assassinated in 1864. This is indeed a very rich landmark of our shared heritage," the letter said.
Brethren living in the Shenandoah Valley who are working as the temporary steering committee along with Roth are Robert E. Alley, pastor of Bridgewater (Va.) Church of the Brethren; John W. Flora, an attorney; W. Wallace Hatcher, a retired businessman; Rebecca Hunter, a businesswoman; Stephen L. Longenecker, department chair for history and political science at Bridgewater College; Phillip C. Stone Sr., president of Bridgewater College; and Dale V. Ulrich, secretary of the Brethren Encyclopedia Board and a retired college administrator.
For more information contact Roth at 540-896-5001 or proth@bridgewater.edu.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
A John Kline Homestead Preservation Trust has been created in hopes of preserving the home of Elder John Kline, a leader of the Brethren during the Civil War. The trust's steering committee is holding a meeting Nov. 11 at 2 p.m. at nearby Linville Creek Church of the Brethren in Broadway, Va., to determine whether there is widespread interest among the Brethren to preserve the homestead.
The historic home has recently become available for purchase. The home was owned and occupied by a Mennonite family for seven generations, and now the family proposes to sell the property, according to a letter from the temporary steering committee.
Local Brethren leaders have formed the trust to consider plans for preserving the remaining 10 acres of the original John Kline farm, according to Linville Creek pastor Paul Roth. They have extended their right of first refusal to a Mennonite financial institution (Park View Federal Credit Union) of Harrisonburg, Va., as an initial effort to keep the property from being sold to developers.
At the Nov. 11 gathering, the agreement with the credit union to purchase some four acres of the homestead--including the 1822 house, spring house/summer kitchen, smoke house, and carriage house--on behalf of the Brethren will be shared. The credit union plans to construct a branch office on an acre of the southwest corner of the land in future years. The remaining five-plus acres will be negotiated for purchase at a later time, Roth said.
A video of the house and property will be shown at the meeting, along with a PowerPoint presentation. Those who attend will be invited to make contributions to purchase the property from the credit union and to establish an endowment to develop the site as a John Kline interpretive center. The local Brethren also will seek counsel for developing a founding board of directors and envisioning further preservation of and programming on the site, Roth said. Following the meeting there will be opportunity to visit the John Kline homestead.
"This is a blessed opportunity to preserve the Elder John Kline house from likely destruction for development. The time is urgent!" read the letter of invitation.
The home was built in 1822 as the first home of Elder John and Anna Wampler Kline. It also served as one of the three original meetinghouses of Linville Creek church. "From here Elder Kline embarked on missionary journeys to western Virginia, facilitated the 1837 Annual Meeting at nearby Linville Creek Church (erected on land he donated), traveled to Brethren congregations as Annual Meeting Moderator during the Civil War, and only a few miles from where he was assassinated in 1864. This is indeed a very rich landmark of our shared heritage," the letter said.
Brethren living in the Shenandoah Valley who are working as the temporary steering committee along with Roth are Robert E. Alley, pastor of Bridgewater (Va.) Church of the Brethren; John W. Flora, an attorney; W. Wallace Hatcher, a retired businessman; Rebecca Hunter, a businesswoman; Stephen L. Longenecker, department chair for history and political science at Bridgewater College; Phillip C. Stone Sr., president of Bridgewater College; and Dale V. Ulrich, secretary of the Brethren Encyclopedia Board and a retired college administrator.
For more information contact Roth at 540-896-5001 or proth@bridgewater.edu.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
Brethren Volunteer Service Unit 272 begins work.
Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) Unit 272 has begun its term of service. The group included 19 volunteers. "As always your prayer support is greatly appreciated," said Hannah Kliewer, of the BVS office. "Please think of the unit and the people they will touch during their year of service."
Following are the volunteers names, hometowns or home congregations, and BVS placements:
Travis Beam of Living Faith Fellowship Church of the Brethren in Concord, N.C., serves with the Youth and Young Adult Ministries of the Church of the Brethren General Board in Elgin, Ill.; Megan Carter of Sacramento, Calif., goes to Quaker Cottage in Belfast, Northern Ireland; Cristina Detwiler of Union Center Church of the Brethren in Nappanee, Ind., is serving at the Palms Retirement Community in Sebring, Fla.; Daniel Fryman of West Milton (Ohio) Church of the Brethren, is working for District IV Human Resources Development Council in Havre, Mont.; Lucy Gardner of Moscow Church of the Brethren in Broadway, Va., also is going to District IV Human Resources Development Council; Athena Gibble of Codorus Church of the Brethren in York, Pa., will serve with the Church of the Brethren in Brazil, her interim placement is at the Meeting Ground in Elkton, Md.; Daniel Haenel of Loessnitz, Germany, is going to Su Casa Catholic Worker in Chicago; Kelsey Hollinger of West Green Tree Church of the Brethren in Marietta, Pa., is working at Friendship Day Care in Hutchinson, Kan.
Rachel McFadden of Manchester Church of the Brethren in North Manchester, Ind., also works for the Youth and Young Adult Ministries of the General Board; Andrew Miller of Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin, Ill., is going to Camp Brethren Woods in Keezletown, Va.; Marni O'Brien of Newton, Mass., serves with the Totonicapan project in Guatemala; Lukas Palm of Ulm, Germany, works for Comfort House Services in McAllen, Texas; Amy Rhodes of Central Church of the Brethren in Roanoke, Va., also is serving with the Youth and Young Adult Ministries of the General Board; Skylar Rising of First Church of the Brethren in Litchfield, Ohio, serves at the San Antonio (Texas) Catholic Worker; Nathanael Schwarz of Trier, Germany, is going to Innisfree Village in Crozet, Va.; Nora Schwilk of Ulm, Germany, is serving with Gould Farm in Monterey, Mass.; Friedrich Sulk of Hoyerswerda, Germany, also goes to the Meeting Ground; Peter Trabert of Lincoln, Neb., will work for Brot und Rosen in Hamburg, Germany; Matthew Yelton of Melvin Hill Church of the Brethren in Columbus, N.C., will work with Camp Bethel in Fincastle, Va.
The New Windsor (Md.) Conference Center hosted the group's orientation from Sept. 24-Oct. 13. While in Maryland, the volunteers had several days to serve the community including a work day at the Brethren Service Center and A Greater Gift/SERRV. During a weekend immersion experience in Baltimore, the group stayed at a homeless men's shelter and participated in work days at Jonah House and local soup kitchens and resource centers for the homeless population. The group also explored many issues of faith, community, peace, and social justice throughout the three week orientation.
For more information about BVS contact the office at 800-323-8039 or visit www.brethrenvolunteerservice.org.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) Unit 272 has begun its term of service. The group included 19 volunteers. "As always your prayer support is greatly appreciated," said Hannah Kliewer, of the BVS office. "Please think of the unit and the people they will touch during their year of service."
Following are the volunteers names, hometowns or home congregations, and BVS placements:
Travis Beam of Living Faith Fellowship Church of the Brethren in Concord, N.C., serves with the Youth and Young Adult Ministries of the Church of the Brethren General Board in Elgin, Ill.; Megan Carter of Sacramento, Calif., goes to Quaker Cottage in Belfast, Northern Ireland; Cristina Detwiler of Union Center Church of the Brethren in Nappanee, Ind., is serving at the Palms Retirement Community in Sebring, Fla.; Daniel Fryman of West Milton (Ohio) Church of the Brethren, is working for District IV Human Resources Development Council in Havre, Mont.; Lucy Gardner of Moscow Church of the Brethren in Broadway, Va., also is going to District IV Human Resources Development Council; Athena Gibble of Codorus Church of the Brethren in York, Pa., will serve with the Church of the Brethren in Brazil, her interim placement is at the Meeting Ground in Elkton, Md.; Daniel Haenel of Loessnitz, Germany, is going to Su Casa Catholic Worker in Chicago; Kelsey Hollinger of West Green Tree Church of the Brethren in Marietta, Pa., is working at Friendship Day Care in Hutchinson, Kan.
Rachel McFadden of Manchester Church of the Brethren in North Manchester, Ind., also works for the Youth and Young Adult Ministries of the General Board; Andrew Miller of Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin, Ill., is going to Camp Brethren Woods in Keezletown, Va.; Marni O'Brien of Newton, Mass., serves with the Totonicapan project in Guatemala; Lukas Palm of Ulm, Germany, works for Comfort House Services in McAllen, Texas; Amy Rhodes of Central Church of the Brethren in Roanoke, Va., also is serving with the Youth and Young Adult Ministries of the General Board; Skylar Rising of First Church of the Brethren in Litchfield, Ohio, serves at the San Antonio (Texas) Catholic Worker; Nathanael Schwarz of Trier, Germany, is going to Innisfree Village in Crozet, Va.; Nora Schwilk of Ulm, Germany, is serving with Gould Farm in Monterey, Mass.; Friedrich Sulk of Hoyerswerda, Germany, also goes to the Meeting Ground; Peter Trabert of Lincoln, Neb., will work for Brot und Rosen in Hamburg, Germany; Matthew Yelton of Melvin Hill Church of the Brethren in Columbus, N.C., will work with Camp Bethel in Fincastle, Va.
The New Windsor (Md.) Conference Center hosted the group's orientation from Sept. 24-Oct. 13. While in Maryland, the volunteers had several days to serve the community including a work day at the Brethren Service Center and A Greater Gift/SERRV. During a weekend immersion experience in Baltimore, the group stayed at a homeless men's shelter and participated in work days at Jonah House and local soup kitchens and resource centers for the homeless population. The group also explored many issues of faith, community, peace, and social justice throughout the three week orientation.
For more information about BVS contact the office at 800-323-8039 or visit www.brethrenvolunteerservice.org.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
Atlantic Northeast District Conference meets on 'Together' theme.
Atlantic Northeast District held its 2006 conference Oct. 13-14 in Leffler Chapel at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College. Wendi Butterfoss of Florin Church of the Brethren in Mount Joy, Pa., served as moderator. The theme was "Together," with the scripture reference 1 John 4:21, "The commandment we have from him is this: those who love God must love their brothers and sisters also." Doris Frysinger provided this report.
Friday evening was an inspirational time of worship and praise. Pastor Robert Kettering of Lititz (Pa.) Church of the Brethren shared three mini-sermons, interspersed with skits that reinforced the three themes, "Together with God," "Together with Other Christians," and "Together with the World." Wayne Eberly, Enos Heisey, Donald Rummel, and Levi Ziegler were each recognized for their 50 years in ordained ministry. An offering of $2,537.50 will be divided equally between the Mission Church Support Fund and the District Ministries.
Butterfoss led delegates in approval of a slate of nominees and a 2007 budget of $623,291, in addition to receiving a variety of reports. District leaders were recognized, with new leaders in the district during the last year introduced. Newly licensed ministers, recently ordained ministers, and pastors serving new congregations were showcased in a power point display. A report from the Turn Around Task Team generated much discussion about the current and future state of the church.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
Atlantic Northeast District held its 2006 conference Oct. 13-14 in Leffler Chapel at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College. Wendi Butterfoss of Florin Church of the Brethren in Mount Joy, Pa., served as moderator. The theme was "Together," with the scripture reference 1 John 4:21, "The commandment we have from him is this: those who love God must love their brothers and sisters also." Doris Frysinger provided this report.
Friday evening was an inspirational time of worship and praise. Pastor Robert Kettering of Lititz (Pa.) Church of the Brethren shared three mini-sermons, interspersed with skits that reinforced the three themes, "Together with God," "Together with Other Christians," and "Together with the World." Wayne Eberly, Enos Heisey, Donald Rummel, and Levi Ziegler were each recognized for their 50 years in ordained ministry. An offering of $2,537.50 will be divided equally between the Mission Church Support Fund and the District Ministries.
Butterfoss led delegates in approval of a slate of nominees and a 2007 budget of $623,291, in addition to receiving a variety of reports. District leaders were recognized, with new leaders in the district during the last year introduced. Newly licensed ministers, recently ordained ministers, and pastors serving new congregations were showcased in a power point display. A report from the Turn Around Task Team generated much discussion about the current and future state of the church.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
MAX supports denominational wellness ministry.
MAX Mutual Aid eXchange of Overland Park, Kan., has donated funds to support the denominational Wellness Ministry of the Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC) in 2006, and is increasing its donation to the Wellness Ministry in 2007. The Wellness Ministry is a collaboration between ABC, Brethren Benefit Trust, and the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Supporting the Wellness Ministry follows MAX's vision of "creating and sustaining wholeness through preserving and restoring property, lives, and community," stated a release from the company.
"We greatly appreciate the funding provided through MAX, which will help us create resources, workshops, and programs about health and well-being for Church of the Brethren congregations," said Mary Lou Garrison, director of the Wellness Ministry.
MAX also sponsored the morning theological presentations provided by Dena Pence Frantz during the National Older Adult Conference sponsored by ABC. Founded in 2001, MAX provides casualty and property insurance for individuals, congregations, and corporations.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
MAX Mutual Aid eXchange of Overland Park, Kan., has donated funds to support the denominational Wellness Ministry of the Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC) in 2006, and is increasing its donation to the Wellness Ministry in 2007. The Wellness Ministry is a collaboration between ABC, Brethren Benefit Trust, and the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Supporting the Wellness Ministry follows MAX's vision of "creating and sustaining wholeness through preserving and restoring property, lives, and community," stated a release from the company.
"We greatly appreciate the funding provided through MAX, which will help us create resources, workshops, and programs about health and well-being for Church of the Brethren congregations," said Mary Lou Garrison, director of the Wellness Ministry.
MAX also sponsored the morning theological presentations provided by Dena Pence Frantz during the National Older Adult Conference sponsored by ABC. Founded in 2001, MAX provides casualty and property insurance for individuals, congregations, and corporations.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
Colorado Brethren and Mennonite youth join for retreat.
Church of the Brethren and Mennonite youth in the Denver and Colorado Springs area of Colorado participated in "River of Life," a weekend of service on Aug. 18-20. Students including youth from Prince of Peace Church of the Brethren arrived at First Mennonite Church to examine how the Anabaptist faith tradition teaches them to be in service to others. Some students gave up their last free weekend of summer, while others rushed from school to attend.
Twenty-six participants were divided between four service projects. The projects included painting a Community Outreach Center at Garden Park Mennonite Brethren Church; pulling weeds and picking up trash at Yarrow Gardens, a Mennonite owned low-income housing project; scrubbing a club at a Denver Boy's and Girl's Club; and office work, yard work, transforming pallets into firewood, and serving lunch to the homeless at Franciscan Friends of the Poor.
On Sunday, the youth reported some life lessons they had learned from the weekend during the worship service at First Mennonite, and led the church in singing. They not only filled the platform with their physical presence, but with their faith sharing as well.
"I didn't know what a homeless person would be like, but now I know they are really cool human beings," reported one youth. "Kids with few options for where to go after school can join a Boy's and Girl's Club for only $2 per year," reported another youth. Another youth observed the struggle for help a single mom was having with her teenagers on moving day, the same day as the River of Life service projects. When the River of Life youth pitched in to help, the other kids also started helping more.
Maybe the life lesson from River of Life was best summed by the song title "Take Me In" sung during the closing concert by the band BlackKnyt (whose members are middle school students with connections to Glennon Heights Mennonite Church). Even when life pushes us to be on the outside, the River of Life weekend models a different way of living that encourages youth to "take people in" and share some simple deeds inspired by Jesus' love.
Mennonite Urban Ministries (MUM) and Discovering Opportunities for Outreach and Reflection (DOOR) sponsored the event.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
Church of the Brethren and Mennonite youth in the Denver and Colorado Springs area of Colorado participated in "River of Life," a weekend of service on Aug. 18-20. Students including youth from Prince of Peace Church of the Brethren arrived at First Mennonite Church to examine how the Anabaptist faith tradition teaches them to be in service to others. Some students gave up their last free weekend of summer, while others rushed from school to attend.
Twenty-six participants were divided between four service projects. The projects included painting a Community Outreach Center at Garden Park Mennonite Brethren Church; pulling weeds and picking up trash at Yarrow Gardens, a Mennonite owned low-income housing project; scrubbing a club at a Denver Boy's and Girl's Club; and office work, yard work, transforming pallets into firewood, and serving lunch to the homeless at Franciscan Friends of the Poor.
On Sunday, the youth reported some life lessons they had learned from the weekend during the worship service at First Mennonite, and led the church in singing. They not only filled the platform with their physical presence, but with their faith sharing as well.
"I didn't know what a homeless person would be like, but now I know they are really cool human beings," reported one youth. "Kids with few options for where to go after school can join a Boy's and Girl's Club for only $2 per year," reported another youth. Another youth observed the struggle for help a single mom was having with her teenagers on moving day, the same day as the River of Life service projects. When the River of Life youth pitched in to help, the other kids also started helping more.
Maybe the life lesson from River of Life was best summed by the song title "Take Me In" sung during the closing concert by the band BlackKnyt (whose members are middle school students with connections to Glennon Heights Mennonite Church). Even when life pushes us to be on the outside, the River of Life weekend models a different way of living that encourages youth to "take people in" and share some simple deeds inspired by Jesus' love.
Mennonite Urban Ministries (MUM) and Discovering Opportunities for Outreach and Reflection (DOOR) sponsored the event.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
Brethren bits: Remembrances, personnel, job openings, and more.
- Veteran Brethren missionary Olive Wise, 86, has died. She was a member of First Church of the Brethren in Johnson City, Tenn., and a resident of John M. Reed Home. A native of Rockford, Ill., and a former nurse and midwife, Wise served from 1948-59 as a missionary of the Church of the Brethren in Bulsar, India. The funeral was held Oct. 2 at First Church of the Brethren in Johnson City. Graveside services took place Oct. 3.
- In an issue of the "BRF Witness" from earlier this year, the Brethren Revival Fellowship expressed sympathy and prayers following the death of Murray P. Lehman, one of the five original members of the BRF Committee. He passed away on Feb. 12, 2006, at age 91. He was a fruit farmer and non-salaried minister and former moderator of New Fairview Church of the Brethren and Belvidere Church of the Brethren in York, Pa. He also helped begin the Lehman Center of York, a temporary shelter for women and children in distress. Lehman helped to launch the BRF along with Linford Rotenberger, W. Hartman Rice, Ralph Jones, and John Geary.
- Jeannette W. Patterson, who served for 38 years as staff in the Virlina District Resource Center and at Camp Bethel, retired on Aug. 10 as director of support services for the district. She will be honored with a reception at Williamson Road Church of the Brethren in Roanoke, Va., on Sunday, Nov. 5, from 3-5 p.m. Highlights of the reception will be a program at 4 p.m., presentation of a gift and a plaque by Cathy S. Huffman, chair of the District Board, and remarks by L. Clyde Carter, David K. Shumate, and Owen G. Stultz.
- Carla Gillespie has begun a short-term assignment with the General Board, on a contractual basis, to support preparations for the denomination's Cross-Cultural Consultation and Celebration next year. The event will be held April 19-22 at the New Windsor (Md.) Conference Center. Gillespie's responsibilities will include giving oversight to a Youth Overnight retreat in conjunction with the consultation, to be held April 20 at Union Bridge Church of the Brethren, and coordinating the worship services for the consultation. She will work with Duane Grady of the General Board's Congregational Life Team staff. Gillespie is a student at Bethany Theological Seminary and a member of Eastwood Church of the Brethren in Akron, Ohio.
- The Global Mission Partnerships of the Church of the Brethren General Board seeks two couples or families as the lead team to begin the new ministry in Sudan, seeking to rebuild and heal the communities after decades of war. The effort will include the formation of churches. A complimentary team that includes people bringing one or more of the following skill sets will be preferred: peace and conflict transformation, health care, church planting and Christian education, community development preferably with experience in the "two-thirds world," dealing with trauma, and literacy and adult education. Candidates should bring relevant education and experience in their areas of specialty, previous experience in international cross-cultural settings, be well grounded in Church of the Brethren identity and practice, and have a team orientation. Secondary skills in repair and maintenance of computers, buildings, or vehicles will be useful. Team members will participate in raising their own support under General Board oversight. Applications are due Nov. 25. The proposed timetable is for interviews and decisions to be made before the end of the year, with placement possibly by the end of the first quarter of 2007. Request applications from Karin Krog, Office of Human Resources, by telephone at 800-323-8039 ext. 258.
- The Brethren Historical Library and Archives (BHLA) has an opening for an archival intern beginning July 1, 2007. This is a one-year internship located at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill. The program is designed for young people to develop interest in vocations related to archives, libraries, and/or Brethren history. This program provides the intern with work assignments at BHLA and opportunities to develop professional contacts. Housing, a monthly stipend of $877, and health and life insurance are provided. A graduate student is preferred, or an undergraduate with at least two years of college. Other requirements include willingness to work with detail, accurate word processing skills, and the ability to lift 30-pound boxes. To apply, submit a resume, letter of application, college transcript (can be an unofficial copy), and three reference letters to the Office of Human Resources, Church of the Brethren General Board, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120-1696. For additional information about the program, contact Ken Shaffer at kshaffer_gb@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 294.
- Nov. 5 is Junior High Youth Sunday in the Church of the Brethren. The theme is "Transformed" based on the story of Jacob and Esau from Genesis 25-27. Resources available at www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/YouthSundayJ.htm include an introduction, a Bible study by Robert Neff, worship ideas from the new Sunday school curriculum "Gather 'Round," and an outline for a junior high retreat.
- Only a few days remain to purchase the commemorative calendar for the 300th Brethren Anniversary at "early bird" rates. The price increases by one dollar on Nov. 2. The calendar will be a unique keepsake as well as useful for teaching about Brethren history and tradition. It will include 18 contemporary feature photos of historical sites and items, 20 inset photos, 6 pages of information about Brethren history, and sidebars entitled "This Month in History." Order forms may be downloaded from www.brethrenanniversary.org.
- The Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) slide show presented at National Youth Conference this summer is now available for download at www.brethren.org/genbd/bvs/Slideshow.html. The show is in PowerPoint format, and for copyright reasons does not including the music used with it at NYC, "What are you waiting for?" by Natalie Grant-Awaken. The slide show is suitable for use by congregations and others interested in BVS.
- Elk Run Church of the Brethren in Churchville, Va., celebrated its 125th anniversary on Oct. 22. Member Doris E. Smith has written a history of the church, and was one of the members interviewed for an article in the "News Leader" newspaper.
- Chiques Church of the Brethren in Manheim, Pa., recognized J. Becker Ginder for 50 years of ministry on Oct. 22. He was called to the ministry in 1956 on a team of nonsalaried, bi-vocational ministers, ordained in 1957, and served as moderator from 1974-85.
- Ridgeway Community Church of the Brethren in Harrisburg, Pa., is being presented with the "Outstanding Program Partner of the Year Award" from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society's Central Pennsylvania Chapter. The church for the past 10 years has supplied space to the Multiple Sclerosis Society for various events, including the currently held weekly Tai Chi classes. The award presentation will take place on Nov. 8 at the Hershey Lodge and Convention Center, with a reception at 5 p.m., and the awards presentation and other agenda at 6 p.m.
- The COBYS Family Services Bike and Hike on Sept. 10 at Lititz (Pa.) Church of the Brethren included a 55-mile motorcycle ride, 25-mile and 10-mile bicycle rides, and a 3-mile walk. The event raised pledges and donations exceeding the $60,000 goal. Some 520 people participated including 316 motorcyclists, 75 bicyclists, and 131 walkers. Two church youth groups raised $1,250 or more, from Little Swatara Church of the Brethren in Bethel, and Chiques Church of the Brethren in Manheim. Proceeds benefited COBYS Family Services, a Church of the Brethren-related agency offering adoption and foster care services, counseling, family life education, and a teen mother and child group home.
- The Brethren Disaster Relief Auction sponsored by Atlantic Northeast and Southern Pennsylvania Districts has given a grant related to the shooting of Amish school children. "Our hearts and prayers go out to the victims, families, and the community of those affected by the tragedy at the Amish School house," said a release from the auction. The event's Executive Board and many committee members work closely with many of the affected Amish families to help make the auction a success, the release said. The auction and the United Relief Fund unanimously approved the grant, committing to providing substantial support for the rebuilding of lives affected by the shooting, specifically the rebuilding of an Amish school, ongoing medical expenses, and continuing care of all those affected. For more information contact Treasurer, Brethren Disaster Relief Auction, Inc., 164 Vinegar Ferry Rd., Marietta, PA 17547.
- District conferences are in full swing in the Church of the Brethren. Over the past couple of weeks four districts have held their annual meetings including Atlantic Northeast on Oct. 13-14 (see story above); Oregon and Washington on Oct. 13-15 at Peace Church of the Brethren in Portland, Ore.; Idaho on Oct. 20-21 at Mountain View Church of the Brethren in Boise; and Middle Pennsylvania on Oct. 20-21 at Roaring Spring (Pa.) Church of the Brethren. Four more districts plan upcoming conferences including Pacific Southwest on Oct. 27-29 at Papago Buttes Church of the Brethren in Scottsdale, Ariz.; Western Pennsylvania on Oct. 28 at Indiana University of Pennsylvania; Illinois and Wisconsin on Nov. 3-5 at York Center Church of the Brethren in Lombard, Ill.; and Shenandoah on Nov. 3-4 at Bridgewater (Va.) Church of the Brethren. Western Plains District is holding its 2nd Annual Gathering focused on congregational renewal on Oct. 27-29 in Salina, Kan., on the theme "Come and See the Transforming Work of Jesus."
- The University of La Verne held homecoming on Oct. 13-15, including class reunions for the decades ending in 6, an all-alumni dinner and dance, sports events, a music and theater department festival, and a worship service at La Verne (Calif.) Church of the Brethren, among many other activities. For more about the university go to www.ulv.edu.
- Bridgewater (Va.) College is hosting a "Gay Marriage Debate" on Nov. 2, at 7:30 p.m. in Cole Hall, sponsored by the Anna B. Mow Lecture Series. Cheryl Jacques, six-term Massachusetts State Senator and president of the Human Rights Campaign, will debate John H. Rogers, the House Majority Leader for the Massachusetts House of Representatives. For more about the college go to www.bridgewater.edu.
- Manchester College professor James R.C. Adams unveiled new artwork in the Physicians Atrium of the college's Science Center on Oct. 26. For the past 18 months, he has been working on paintings to celebrate the $17 million Science Center, dedicated Sept. 16, 2005. Each of the three interrelated paintings depicts a natural science, underlined in a symbolic color--blue for physics, green for biology, and magenta for chemistry. Mathematics unites the triptych with formulas, words, symbols and equations. Adams was recognized by Congress as the 2002 US Professor of the Year, a release said. For more about the college go to www.manchester.edu.
- Interchurch Medical Assistance (IMA), whose offices are hosted by the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., has been awarded $40 million for a health care project in the Democratic of Congo (DRC). An estimated eight million adults and children in the DRC will have access to improved health care through Project AXxes, a three-year program designed to deliver basic health care services and rebuild the health system. IMA has been named as the lead agency for the project, which will be managed and implemented in collaboration with the DRC Ministry of Health, the Protestant Church of Congo, World Vision International, Catholic Relief Services, and Merlin, and funded by US AID. The Church of the Brethren is one of the network of faith communities affiliated with IMA. For more information go to www.interchurch.org.
- Voices for an Open Spirit (VOS) plans its Fall 2006 Gathering for Nov. 10-12 at Camp Alexander Mack in Milford, Ind. "Spiritual Vitality: Sharing, Sampling, and Savoring" is the theme for a conference exploring a variety of spiritual styles, based on Jesus' promise, "Whoever comes to me will never be hungry" (John 6:35). The imagery of a pie will inform the gathering, said the brochure for the event. "During the weekend we will sample, savor, and share pieces of pie (both spiritual and physical)." Leaders are Tracy Knechel, pastor at Mack Memorial Church of the Brethren in Dayton, Ohio; Tim Button-Harrison, who has completed 10 years as pastor at Ivester Church of the Brethren in Grundy Center, Iowa; and Anita Smith Buckwalter, pastor of First Church of the Brethren in Lansing, Mich. Cost is $135. Registration is available at www.voicesforanopenspirit.org. VOS is a network "giving voice to a progressive spirit in the Church of the Brethren."
- Fall events at CrossRoads Brethren and Mennonite Heritage Center in Harrisonburg, Va., include an installation of federal and state plaques granting historic register status for the Breneman-Turner Mill at 2:30 p.m. on Nov. 12; and an annual tour of historic homes on Nov. 18, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., including four homes and Beaver Creek Church of the Brethren.
- The General Assembly of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA (NCC) and Church World Service (CWS) holds its annual meeting in Orlando, Fla., Nov. 7-9, on the theme, "For the Healing of the Nations." Brethren delegates will join others from 35 Christian communions for worship, Bible study, fellowship, and to consider business. The NCC's Governing Board is referring resolutions on current events, including the war in Iraq, human cloning, and global warming, to the assembly for action. The subjects of other resolutions reviewed by the Governing Board include Wal-Mart, Christian Zionism, and the 400th anniversary next year of the founding of Jamestown, Va. More information is at www.ncccusa.org/generalassembly/highlights2006.html.
- Every Church A Peace Church, begun six years ago by an ecumenical group including Church of the Brethren representatives, has received a grant of $500,000 from the Shumaker Family Foundation of Kansas. The foundation cited the organization's interests in spirituality and social justice, and its innovative approach, as factors in awarding the grant. "The donors apparently share our belief that the church could turn the world toward peace if every church lived and taught as Jesus lived and taught," said coordinator John Stoner. Every Church a Peace Church has hired Michael Hardin, director of the School of Peace Theology and member of the Colloquium on Violence and Religion, as education coordinator; and Lorri Hardin as executive administrator. A search for a new national director is underway. Stoner will continue with the organization in a writing and speaking role. Every Church a Peace Church also plans a series of eight conferences in major cities to create a network engaged in just peacemaking, and plans a National Registry of Peace Churches. For more information visit www.ecapc.org.
Jeff Lennard hired as Brethren Press director of marketing and sales.
Brethren Press has announced the appointment of Jeff Lennard to the position of director of marketing and sales. Brethren Press is a ministry of the Church of the Brethren General Board. Lennard's first day in the job will be Monday, Nov. 13.
Lennard has spent the last eight years as manager of the North Park University/Covenant Bookstore in Chicago, Ill. Prior to that he owned two bookstores in Omaha, Neb.
His experience includes inventory management, store administration, team supervision, customer service, sales and advertising, merchandising, profit-and-loss management, contract negotiation, and market research and development. Lennard lives in Chicago with his family, and is active in the Evangelical Covenant Church.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
Brethren Press has announced the appointment of Jeff Lennard to the position of director of marketing and sales. Brethren Press is a ministry of the Church of the Brethren General Board. Lennard's first day in the job will be Monday, Nov. 13.
Lennard has spent the last eight years as manager of the North Park University/Covenant Bookstore in Chicago, Ill. Prior to that he owned two bookstores in Omaha, Neb.
His experience includes inventory management, store administration, team supervision, customer service, sales and advertising, merchandising, profit-and-loss management, contract negotiation, and market research and development. Lennard lives in Chicago with his family, and is active in the Evangelical Covenant Church.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
First-ever National Junior High Conference planned for next June.
A first-ever National Junior High Conference is being planned for sixth, seventh, and eighth graders in the Church of the Brethren. The event will be held the weekend of June 15-17, 2007, at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College.
On the theme, "The Amazing Race: Continuing the Work of Jesus" (Luke 9:2-3), the event is designed to give a taste of a mini-National Youth Conference experience. It will include high-energy worship, active learning workshops, music, games, fun, and fellowship. Featured presenters are the Mennonite comedy duo Ted and Lee, musician Ken Medema, and speaker Tony Campolo.
The conference is sponsored by the Youth and Young Adult Ministries of the Church of the Brethren General Board. Cost will be $99 per person, registration begins online on Feb. 1 at www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/NatJrHighConf.htm. After April 15, the cost will go up to $125. Churches are required to send adult advisors with their youth. For more information contact Chris Douglas at 800-323-8039 ext. 297.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
A first-ever National Junior High Conference is being planned for sixth, seventh, and eighth graders in the Church of the Brethren. The event will be held the weekend of June 15-17, 2007, at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College.
On the theme, "The Amazing Race: Continuing the Work of Jesus" (Luke 9:2-3), the event is designed to give a taste of a mini-National Youth Conference experience. It will include high-energy worship, active learning workshops, music, games, fun, and fellowship. Featured presenters are the Mennonite comedy duo Ted and Lee, musician Ken Medema, and speaker Tony Campolo.
The conference is sponsored by the Youth and Young Adult Ministries of the Church of the Brethren General Board. Cost will be $99 per person, registration begins online on Feb. 1 at www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/NatJrHighConf.htm. After April 15, the cost will go up to $125. Churches are required to send adult advisors with their youth. For more information contact Chris Douglas at 800-323-8039 ext. 297.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
New video reviews work of Brethren Service after WWII.
"Food and Clothing, Cattle and Love: Brethren Service in Europe after World War II," a new documentary reviewing the work of Brethren Service in Europe following the devastation of World War II, is now available as a video. The resource sponsored by On Earth Peace was produced by David Sollenberger, with support from a number of individual contributors and from the Church of the Brethren General Board.
The video tells the story of the church at its best, said a release from On Earth Peace. "In an outpouring of service backed financially by sacrificial giving, the Church of the Brethren came to the aid of neighbors in need," the release said. "Following Jesus' example, Brethren Service crossed political boundaries to extend a helping hand."
"They opened up their hearts, and tried to build bridges, and the bridge was Christ's love," said Wilbur Mullen, who was active in the post-war relief work.
The video offers photos and film footage from the time period, as well as interviews with those who served. To suit a variety of audiences and uses, the story is told in three different styles and formats including a 27-minute version giving a comprehensive look at the work in Europe in the late 1940s and early 1950s; a brief documentary of 12 minutes designed for shorter formats and sparking discussion; a 3-minute music video especially for younger audiences; and 29 minutes of historical photos, information, and personal reflections prepared by Mullen.
Order from On Earth Peace at 410-635-8704 or www.brethren.org/oepa/resources/everyone/bscvideo.html. Cost is $10 for DVD format, $12 for VHS format, plus $3 for shipping.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
"Food and Clothing, Cattle and Love: Brethren Service in Europe after World War II," a new documentary reviewing the work of Brethren Service in Europe following the devastation of World War II, is now available as a video. The resource sponsored by On Earth Peace was produced by David Sollenberger, with support from a number of individual contributors and from the Church of the Brethren General Board.
The video tells the story of the church at its best, said a release from On Earth Peace. "In an outpouring of service backed financially by sacrificial giving, the Church of the Brethren came to the aid of neighbors in need," the release said. "Following Jesus' example, Brethren Service crossed political boundaries to extend a helping hand."
"They opened up their hearts, and tried to build bridges, and the bridge was Christ's love," said Wilbur Mullen, who was active in the post-war relief work.
The video offers photos and film footage from the time period, as well as interviews with those who served. To suit a variety of audiences and uses, the story is told in three different styles and formats including a 27-minute version giving a comprehensive look at the work in Europe in the late 1940s and early 1950s; a brief documentary of 12 minutes designed for shorter formats and sparking discussion; a 3-minute music video especially for younger audiences; and 29 minutes of historical photos, information, and personal reflections prepared by Mullen.
Order from On Earth Peace at 410-635-8704 or www.brethren.org/oepa/resources/everyone/bscvideo.html. Cost is $10 for DVD format, $12 for VHS format, plus $3 for shipping.
Source: 10/25/2006 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. J. Allen Brubaker, Mary Dulabaum, Doris Frysinger, Vickie Johnson, Del Keeney, Hannah Kliewer, Jeri S. Kornegay, Karin Krog, Howard Royer, and Gail Erisman Valeta 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. J. Allen Brubaker, Mary Dulabaum, Doris Frysinger, Vickie Johnson, Del Keeney, Hannah Kliewer, Jeri S. Kornegay, Karin Krog, Howard Royer, and Gail Erisman Valeta contributed to this report.
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