- Church of the Brethren is represented in prayer service with the Pope.
- ABC Board approves merger documents.
- Bethany Seminary trustees consider ‘core testimonies’ of Brethren.
- Growing Project in Maryland engages six Brethren churches.
- Womaen's Caucus leads discussion of future church at Bethany.
- Brethren representative helps plan UN remembrance of slave trade.
- Brethren bits: Remembrance, personnel, jobs, and much more.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
NEWS
Church of the Brethren is represented in prayer service with the Pope.
The Church of the Brethren was represented at an ecumenical prayer service with Pope Benedict XVI during the Pope's first official visit to the United States. Michael Hostetter, pastor of Salem Church of the Brethren in Englewood, Ohio, represented the denomination as chair of the Church of the Brethren's Committee on Interchurch Relations.
The Pope was in the United States from April 15-20 for his first apostolic visit to the US since he was elected the 265th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church in 2005. The prayer service and reception with leaders from the National Council of Churches, Christian Churches Together, and other Christian denominations took place the evening of April 18 at St. Joseph's Church in New York.
The service was held in a modest setting at a small historically German-Catholic parish, Hostetter said, making a connection with the Pope's German nationality. Guests were required to arrive two hours early to go through security screening, which gave the church leaders a chance to mingle and listen to some "marvelous music," Hostetter commented. Choirs from various parishes sang, as well as soloists, among them some of New York's opera singers.
The service began after the Pope arrived, with the Pope seated on a large chair in the center front of the chancel, the US Catholics bishops seated to one side, and the ecumenical guests making up the congregation. The short 40-minute service included prayers, the reading of scripture, a choral piece, and an address from the Pope. It concluded with personal introductions of several guests who were selected to greet the Pope personally, followed by a benediction.
The Pope's address "emphasized the importance of correct doctrine and prayer and Christ's own prayer and commitment to unity," Hostetter reported. "There was nothing shocking or surprising. He showed an openness that his reputation belies. He talked about the quest for unity as a commission from Christ. That unity, he would say, is grounded both in prayer but also in doctrine.
"He's not backing away from the historical views of the Roman Catholic Church," Hostetter added. But the Pope did emphasize that Christians need some substantive conversation about doctrine. "Of course, that's the sticky point," Hostetter said. "He was not overly confrontive, but clear, calling on Christians to hold fast to the faith that we have."
The Pope's comments about the nature of the church may connect with Brethren, Hostetter said. He spoke of the church as not just a biblical reality and a present reality, but also a teaching community that goes back in time. This understanding of the church is "a notion that makes sense to Brethren, although we'd be looking back at different communities" as the teaching church of the past, Hostetter said.
Hostetter affirmed that it was important for a Brethren representative to attend the event. "Our continuing participation ecumenically is very important. We have participated through the National Council of Churches and the World Council of Churches but neither of those has included Catholics. Now we're involved with Christian Churches Together and that has a vital participation by Roman Catholics."
As he travels to various ecumenical events on behalf of the denomination, Hostetter said he finds connections and a sense of unity with other Christians that the Brethren may not even know we have. He calls it, "a subterranean unity that exists often beyond our field of view. It's just important to remain in conversation as we move into the future."
For the text of the Pope's address to the ecumenical prayer service, and other addresses during the US visit, go to www.uspapalvisit.org.
Source: 4/23/2008 Newsline
The Church of the Brethren was represented at an ecumenical prayer service with Pope Benedict XVI during the Pope's first official visit to the United States. Michael Hostetter, pastor of Salem Church of the Brethren in Englewood, Ohio, represented the denomination as chair of the Church of the Brethren's Committee on Interchurch Relations.
The Pope was in the United States from April 15-20 for his first apostolic visit to the US since he was elected the 265th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church in 2005. The prayer service and reception with leaders from the National Council of Churches, Christian Churches Together, and other Christian denominations took place the evening of April 18 at St. Joseph's Church in New York.
The service was held in a modest setting at a small historically German-Catholic parish, Hostetter said, making a connection with the Pope's German nationality. Guests were required to arrive two hours early to go through security screening, which gave the church leaders a chance to mingle and listen to some "marvelous music," Hostetter commented. Choirs from various parishes sang, as well as soloists, among them some of New York's opera singers.
The service began after the Pope arrived, with the Pope seated on a large chair in the center front of the chancel, the US Catholics bishops seated to one side, and the ecumenical guests making up the congregation. The short 40-minute service included prayers, the reading of scripture, a choral piece, and an address from the Pope. It concluded with personal introductions of several guests who were selected to greet the Pope personally, followed by a benediction.
The Pope's address "emphasized the importance of correct doctrine and prayer and Christ's own prayer and commitment to unity," Hostetter reported. "There was nothing shocking or surprising. He showed an openness that his reputation belies. He talked about the quest for unity as a commission from Christ. That unity, he would say, is grounded both in prayer but also in doctrine.
"He's not backing away from the historical views of the Roman Catholic Church," Hostetter added. But the Pope did emphasize that Christians need some substantive conversation about doctrine. "Of course, that's the sticky point," Hostetter said. "He was not overly confrontive, but clear, calling on Christians to hold fast to the faith that we have."
The Pope's comments about the nature of the church may connect with Brethren, Hostetter said. He spoke of the church as not just a biblical reality and a present reality, but also a teaching community that goes back in time. This understanding of the church is "a notion that makes sense to Brethren, although we'd be looking back at different communities" as the teaching church of the past, Hostetter said.
Hostetter affirmed that it was important for a Brethren representative to attend the event. "Our continuing participation ecumenically is very important. We have participated through the National Council of Churches and the World Council of Churches but neither of those has included Catholics. Now we're involved with Christian Churches Together and that has a vital participation by Roman Catholics."
As he travels to various ecumenical events on behalf of the denomination, Hostetter said he finds connections and a sense of unity with other Christians that the Brethren may not even know we have. He calls it, "a subterranean unity that exists often beyond our field of view. It's just important to remain in conversation as we move into the future."
For the text of the Pope's address to the ecumenical prayer service, and other addresses during the US visit, go to www.uspapalvisit.org.
Source: 4/23/2008 Newsline
ABC Board approves merger documents.
The Board of Directors of the Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC) met in a conference call on April 13. The board reviewed the merger agreement and unanimously approved the resolution merging the Church of the Brethren General Board and the board of ABC into the Church of the Brethren Mission and Ministry Board. This action was in response to the decisions of the 2007 Annual Conference.
During the meeting, members of the board voiced regret that ABC will lose its uniqueness and independence, however all agreed that the grieving would be short lived. The board is committed to support of the organization of the Church of the Brethren, Inc. and its ministries, which will now include the caring ministries of ABC. The board believes this action will provide for a Christ-led, simplified structure that best serves the entire denomination.
ABC is excited about the possibilities this new structure provides and looks forward to the challenges and blessings of the Caring Ministries of the Church of the Brethren.
--Eddie H. Edmonds is the current chair of the board of the Association of Brethren Caregivers.
Source: 4/23/2008 Newsline
The Board of Directors of the Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC) met in a conference call on April 13. The board reviewed the merger agreement and unanimously approved the resolution merging the Church of the Brethren General Board and the board of ABC into the Church of the Brethren Mission and Ministry Board. This action was in response to the decisions of the 2007 Annual Conference.
During the meeting, members of the board voiced regret that ABC will lose its uniqueness and independence, however all agreed that the grieving would be short lived. The board is committed to support of the organization of the Church of the Brethren, Inc. and its ministries, which will now include the caring ministries of ABC. The board believes this action will provide for a Christ-led, simplified structure that best serves the entire denomination.
ABC is excited about the possibilities this new structure provides and looks forward to the challenges and blessings of the Caring Ministries of the Church of the Brethren.
--Eddie H. Edmonds is the current chair of the board of the Association of Brethren Caregivers.
Source: 4/23/2008 Newsline
Bethany Seminary trustees consider ‘core testimonies’ of Brethren.
The Bethany Theological Seminary Board of Trustees gathered at the Richmond, Ind., campus for a semi-annual meeting on March 28-30. The meeting included spirited discussion and deliberation about many significant items related to the seminary’s mission and program, including discussion of the "core testimonies" of the Church of the Brethren.
Faculty and administration joined the board for an evening meal followed by a time of creative visioning about the seminary’s mission. Board chair Ted Flory described the conversation as a discussion about, "How we might refocus that mission around Church of the Brethren core testimonies in order to meet the needs of the denomination and wider church, and the world, for the 21st century." President Ruthann Johansen added, "What the Church of the Brethren core testimonies have to offer to the world as well as to the church in this time is an important element of our discernment." No decisions were made other than a consensus to continue the conversations and build on the creative energies that were ignited during the meeting.
The board approved 16 candidates for graduation on May 3, pending successful completion of their studies. The board also received a report from academic dean Stephen Breck Reid that 51 percent of seminary students in the US are women, and during the 2007-08 academic year, 57 percent of Bethany students are women. A new course titled "Women in Ministry" will added to the curriculum in the 2008-09 academic year, taught by Tara Hornbacker, associate professor of Ministry Formation.
Academic year budgets for 2008-09 were approved for Bethany operations, the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership, and the Brethren Journal Association. The Bethany operations budget is $2,406,280, an approximate $186,500 increase.
The Academic Affairs committee reported that several documents are in progress to address recommendations of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools (HLC), related to the seminary’s 2006 re-accreditation. An initial assessment plan will be submitted to ATS in April, a recruitment plan to HLC by Oct. 1, and a comprehensive assessment plan for review by the HLC by 2010-11.
The board heard a report on preservation of three book collections owned by the seminary: the Abraham Cassel Collection, the Huston Bible Collection, and the John Eberly Hymnal Collection. The project is funded by a grant from the Arthur Vining Davis Foundation. The collections include the theological library of 19th century Brethren leader Abraham Cassel, as well as many rare volumes on radical Pietism and early sectarian works. Custom-made protective covers are being created for each book, and the collections are stored in the climate-controlled archival section of Earlham College’s Lilly Library. Titles will be included in the Internet search engine WorldCat and on a web page maintained by the Brethren Journal Association.
In other reports, the board heard an update on the Sustaining Pastoral Excellence programs of the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership, which are funded by Lilly Endowment, Inc. Financial support from the endowment ends in 2009, and plans are being developed to obtain continuing funds. Steve Clapp of Christian Community is working with the academy to survey pastors about the impact of the Sustaining Pastoral Excellence programs. The board also discussed the partnership with Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center. SVMC executive director Donna Rhodes shared a history of the center. Discussion focused on procedural and programmatic issues and ways to clarify and strengthen the partnership.
The board approved the promotion of Daniel W. Ulrich to professor of New Testament Studies, and learned of three teaching and administrative appointments (see personnel notices in the April 9 Newsline). The service of Christine Larson, Delora Roop, and Jonathan Shively was recognized. Larson leaves as reference librarian for Earlham College, Earlham School of Religion, and Bethany at the end of this academic year. Roop retires this summer as receptionist and coordinator of the Office of Institutional Advancement, after 25 years of service. Shively leaves July 1 as director of the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership to begin as executive director of the denomination’s Congregational Life Ministries.
The board retained its current officers for 2008-09: Ted Flory of Bridgewater, Va., as chair; Ray Donadio of Greenville, Ohio, as vice chair; Frances Beam of Concord, N.C., as secretary; Carol Scheppard of Mount Crawford, Va., as chair of the Academic Affairs Committee; Elaine Gibbel of Lititz, Pa., as chair of the Institutional Advancement Committee; and Jim Dodson of Lexington, Ky., as chair of the Student and Business Affairs Committee.
--Marcia Shetler is director of Public Relations for Bethany Theological Seminary.
Source: 4/23/2008 Newsline
The Bethany Theological Seminary Board of Trustees gathered at the Richmond, Ind., campus for a semi-annual meeting on March 28-30. The meeting included spirited discussion and deliberation about many significant items related to the seminary’s mission and program, including discussion of the "core testimonies" of the Church of the Brethren.
Faculty and administration joined the board for an evening meal followed by a time of creative visioning about the seminary’s mission. Board chair Ted Flory described the conversation as a discussion about, "How we might refocus that mission around Church of the Brethren core testimonies in order to meet the needs of the denomination and wider church, and the world, for the 21st century." President Ruthann Johansen added, "What the Church of the Brethren core testimonies have to offer to the world as well as to the church in this time is an important element of our discernment." No decisions were made other than a consensus to continue the conversations and build on the creative energies that were ignited during the meeting.
The board approved 16 candidates for graduation on May 3, pending successful completion of their studies. The board also received a report from academic dean Stephen Breck Reid that 51 percent of seminary students in the US are women, and during the 2007-08 academic year, 57 percent of Bethany students are women. A new course titled "Women in Ministry" will added to the curriculum in the 2008-09 academic year, taught by Tara Hornbacker, associate professor of Ministry Formation.
Academic year budgets for 2008-09 were approved for Bethany operations, the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership, and the Brethren Journal Association. The Bethany operations budget is $2,406,280, an approximate $186,500 increase.
The Academic Affairs committee reported that several documents are in progress to address recommendations of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools (HLC), related to the seminary’s 2006 re-accreditation. An initial assessment plan will be submitted to ATS in April, a recruitment plan to HLC by Oct. 1, and a comprehensive assessment plan for review by the HLC by 2010-11.
The board heard a report on preservation of three book collections owned by the seminary: the Abraham Cassel Collection, the Huston Bible Collection, and the John Eberly Hymnal Collection. The project is funded by a grant from the Arthur Vining Davis Foundation. The collections include the theological library of 19th century Brethren leader Abraham Cassel, as well as many rare volumes on radical Pietism and early sectarian works. Custom-made protective covers are being created for each book, and the collections are stored in the climate-controlled archival section of Earlham College’s Lilly Library. Titles will be included in the Internet search engine WorldCat and on a web page maintained by the Brethren Journal Association.
In other reports, the board heard an update on the Sustaining Pastoral Excellence programs of the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership, which are funded by Lilly Endowment, Inc. Financial support from the endowment ends in 2009, and plans are being developed to obtain continuing funds. Steve Clapp of Christian Community is working with the academy to survey pastors about the impact of the Sustaining Pastoral Excellence programs. The board also discussed the partnership with Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center. SVMC executive director Donna Rhodes shared a history of the center. Discussion focused on procedural and programmatic issues and ways to clarify and strengthen the partnership.
The board approved the promotion of Daniel W. Ulrich to professor of New Testament Studies, and learned of three teaching and administrative appointments (see personnel notices in the April 9 Newsline). The service of Christine Larson, Delora Roop, and Jonathan Shively was recognized. Larson leaves as reference librarian for Earlham College, Earlham School of Religion, and Bethany at the end of this academic year. Roop retires this summer as receptionist and coordinator of the Office of Institutional Advancement, after 25 years of service. Shively leaves July 1 as director of the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership to begin as executive director of the denomination’s Congregational Life Ministries.
The board retained its current officers for 2008-09: Ted Flory of Bridgewater, Va., as chair; Ray Donadio of Greenville, Ohio, as vice chair; Frances Beam of Concord, N.C., as secretary; Carol Scheppard of Mount Crawford, Va., as chair of the Academic Affairs Committee; Elaine Gibbel of Lititz, Pa., as chair of the Institutional Advancement Committee; and Jim Dodson of Lexington, Ky., as chair of the Student and Business Affairs Committee.
--Marcia Shetler is director of Public Relations for Bethany Theological Seminary.
Source: 4/23/2008 Newsline
Growing Project in Maryland engages six Brethren churches.
The kick-off of the 2008 Grossnickle, Md., growing project took place on April 13. This year's growing project is engaging six Church of the Brethren congregations in the Mid-Atlantic District--the Beaver Creek, Grossnickle, Hagerstown, Harmony, Myersville, and Welty churches--and possibly a United Church of Christ congregation. Growing projects raise food to benefit hunger efforts through the Foods Resource Bank and the Church of the Brethren’s Global Food Crisis Fund.
"We had a wonderful kick-off yesterday for this year's growing project," reported Patty Hurwitz of Grossnickle Church of the Brethren, who is a committee member for the growing project. "We sold 17 acres at $250 an acre plus a $1,000 donation from a family, all after church on Sunday!"
The Grossnickle growing project this season will benefit the Micro Devru program in the DR Congo. Its first-year overseas program focused on anti-hunger efforts in Kenya, and the second year the project focused on Zambia.
Each year, the Grossnickle growing project has held planting and harvest celebrations featuring food, dress, music, and stories from the recipient country. The kick-off event included a children's story about crops being improved by the Micro Devru project. "We planted seed peanuts, and talked about how that handful of peanuts might feed one person one meal, but the seeds would create food for many people," said Hurwitz. "I showed them a cassava root and they tasted cassava bread. We had a palm tree and talked about palm oil production. We had black-eyed peas, which are a cousin to cow-peas." Another committee member shared a report about the success of the Kenya Bamba project in 2006.
Other efforts that may be added to the initiative in Grossnickle include ideas for a pen-pal program for children to correspond with Congolese children or school groups, and ways youth and farmers can connect. "Real personal connections add so much to our work," Hurwitz said.
Sponsors of the project have invited Betty Rogers, who is assessing the Foods Resource Bank for the Hilton Humanitarian Award, to come to a planting celebration in May. The Foods Resource Bank is among a dozen or so organizations being screened for the 2008 award, which carries a prize of $1.5 million.
Several Brethren members have participated in meetings in which Rogers talked with Foods Resource Bank officials and growing project supporters--including Tim Ritchey Martin, Robert Delauter, and Patty Hurwitz of the Grossnickle project, along with Jim and Karen Schmidt from a growing project involving Polo (Ill.) Church of the Brethren, and Global Food Crisis Fund manager Howard Royer and his wife, Gene.
Source: 4/23/2008 Newsline
The kick-off of the 2008 Grossnickle, Md., growing project took place on April 13. This year's growing project is engaging six Church of the Brethren congregations in the Mid-Atlantic District--the Beaver Creek, Grossnickle, Hagerstown, Harmony, Myersville, and Welty churches--and possibly a United Church of Christ congregation. Growing projects raise food to benefit hunger efforts through the Foods Resource Bank and the Church of the Brethren’s Global Food Crisis Fund.
"We had a wonderful kick-off yesterday for this year's growing project," reported Patty Hurwitz of Grossnickle Church of the Brethren, who is a committee member for the growing project. "We sold 17 acres at $250 an acre plus a $1,000 donation from a family, all after church on Sunday!"
The Grossnickle growing project this season will benefit the Micro Devru program in the DR Congo. Its first-year overseas program focused on anti-hunger efforts in Kenya, and the second year the project focused on Zambia.
Each year, the Grossnickle growing project has held planting and harvest celebrations featuring food, dress, music, and stories from the recipient country. The kick-off event included a children's story about crops being improved by the Micro Devru project. "We planted seed peanuts, and talked about how that handful of peanuts might feed one person one meal, but the seeds would create food for many people," said Hurwitz. "I showed them a cassava root and they tasted cassava bread. We had a palm tree and talked about palm oil production. We had black-eyed peas, which are a cousin to cow-peas." Another committee member shared a report about the success of the Kenya Bamba project in 2006.
Other efforts that may be added to the initiative in Grossnickle include ideas for a pen-pal program for children to correspond with Congolese children or school groups, and ways youth and farmers can connect. "Real personal connections add so much to our work," Hurwitz said.
Sponsors of the project have invited Betty Rogers, who is assessing the Foods Resource Bank for the Hilton Humanitarian Award, to come to a planting celebration in May. The Foods Resource Bank is among a dozen or so organizations being screened for the 2008 award, which carries a prize of $1.5 million.
Several Brethren members have participated in meetings in which Rogers talked with Foods Resource Bank officials and growing project supporters--including Tim Ritchey Martin, Robert Delauter, and Patty Hurwitz of the Grossnickle project, along with Jim and Karen Schmidt from a growing project involving Polo (Ill.) Church of the Brethren, and Global Food Crisis Fund manager Howard Royer and his wife, Gene.
Source: 4/23/2008 Newsline
Womaen's Caucus leads discussion of future church at Bethany.
As a part of the Womaen's Caucus Steering Committee meetings held recently in Richmond, Ind., a potluck supper and gathering was held with over 25 people attending in the lounge at Bethany Theological Seminary. Those attending discussed the future church and their dreams for the church, as well as other timely topics.
Richmond Church of the Brethren offered its facilities for the three days of caucus meetings. Members of the Steering Committee discussed the upcoming Annual Conference and planned the design of their booth in the exhibit hall. Womaen's Caucus also will sponsor a luncheon on Tuesday, July 16, with speaker Doris Abdullah of Brooklyn, N.Y. Tickets are available through the Annual Conference office.
Much discussion surrounded the new website www.womaenscaucus.org that has been designed and administrated by new member Sharon Neerhoof May. The group planned resources that will be added to the site in the near future, including inclusive language worship resources as well as items for female youth.
Womaen's Caucus members participated in Sunday morning worship at the Richmond Church with Anna Lisa Gross as worship leader, Peg Yoder presenting a children's story, Deb Peterson speaking on how she came to be a part of the caucus, and Carla Kilgore speaking on the work of the caucus. Both Peterson, who is editor of the group's newsletter "Femailings," and Kilgore, the convener, are ending their four-year terms. Gross will be the new editor of the newsletter, and Audrey DeCoursey will serve as convener. Other members who attended are Jan Eller, administrator, Jill Kline, and Neerhoof May.
--Deb Peterson has served as editor of "Femailings" for the Womaen's Caucus.
Source: 4/23/2008 Newsline
As a part of the Womaen's Caucus Steering Committee meetings held recently in Richmond, Ind., a potluck supper and gathering was held with over 25 people attending in the lounge at Bethany Theological Seminary. Those attending discussed the future church and their dreams for the church, as well as other timely topics.
Richmond Church of the Brethren offered its facilities for the three days of caucus meetings. Members of the Steering Committee discussed the upcoming Annual Conference and planned the design of their booth in the exhibit hall. Womaen's Caucus also will sponsor a luncheon on Tuesday, July 16, with speaker Doris Abdullah of Brooklyn, N.Y. Tickets are available through the Annual Conference office.
Much discussion surrounded the new website www.womaenscaucus.org that has been designed and administrated by new member Sharon Neerhoof May. The group planned resources that will be added to the site in the near future, including inclusive language worship resources as well as items for female youth.
Womaen's Caucus members participated in Sunday morning worship at the Richmond Church with Anna Lisa Gross as worship leader, Peg Yoder presenting a children's story, Deb Peterson speaking on how she came to be a part of the caucus, and Carla Kilgore speaking on the work of the caucus. Both Peterson, who is editor of the group's newsletter "Femailings," and Kilgore, the convener, are ending their four-year terms. Gross will be the new editor of the newsletter, and Audrey DeCoursey will serve as convener. Other members who attended are Jan Eller, administrator, Jill Kline, and Neerhoof May.
--Deb Peterson has served as editor of "Femailings" for the Womaen's Caucus.
Source: 4/23/2008 Newsline
Brethren representative helps plan UN remembrance of slave trade.
The Church of the Brethren was represented at United Nations events on March 27 marking the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Doris Abdullah of First Church of the Brethren in Brooklyn, N.Y., and a board member of On Earth Peace, attended as the denomination’s credentialed representative with the UN and as a member of the NGO Subcommittee for the Elimination of Racism.
The subcommittee planned the events and recommended the speakers for morning and afternoon briefings. "Both programs went extremely well," Abdullah said.
A briefing on "Lest We Forget: Breaking the Silence on the Transatlantic Slave Trade," drew an overflow crowd and included the viewing of a documentary by Sheila Walkers, "The Slave Route: A Global Vision." Abdullah recommends the film for education in the church and community; it is a part of the UNESCO Slave Route Project, and will be available to the public.
Speakers at a session on the prevention of genocide included among others Yvette Rugasaguhunga, a survivor the Rwandan Tutsi genocide; Mark Weitzman, associate director of education for the Simon Wiesenthal Center; and Rodney Leon, designer of the African Burial Ground Memorial in Wall Street.
The African Burial Ground Memorial is the grave site of 20,000 slaves discovered in 1991 at a construction site in lower Manhattan, Abdullah said. The architect’s design process for the memorial included education and an urban presence, along with "cultural, symbolic, spiritual, international, and interactive participation," she said. "To me it means that we truly ‘walk on holy grounds.’ These Africans were brutally taken from their homes, chained in a boat for months, enslaved for a lifetime, and entombed in concrete for centuries, with the moneyed class walking over their bones. One story of one people, but what a story."
Concerns raised by the briefings included hate games and violent games played on the Internet, the need for prevention of genocide and mass killings, and psychological recovery and reconciliation following genocide.
Source: 4/23/2008 Newsline
The Church of the Brethren was represented at United Nations events on March 27 marking the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Doris Abdullah of First Church of the Brethren in Brooklyn, N.Y., and a board member of On Earth Peace, attended as the denomination’s credentialed representative with the UN and as a member of the NGO Subcommittee for the Elimination of Racism.
The subcommittee planned the events and recommended the speakers for morning and afternoon briefings. "Both programs went extremely well," Abdullah said.
A briefing on "Lest We Forget: Breaking the Silence on the Transatlantic Slave Trade," drew an overflow crowd and included the viewing of a documentary by Sheila Walkers, "The Slave Route: A Global Vision." Abdullah recommends the film for education in the church and community; it is a part of the UNESCO Slave Route Project, and will be available to the public.
Speakers at a session on the prevention of genocide included among others Yvette Rugasaguhunga, a survivor the Rwandan Tutsi genocide; Mark Weitzman, associate director of education for the Simon Wiesenthal Center; and Rodney Leon, designer of the African Burial Ground Memorial in Wall Street.
The African Burial Ground Memorial is the grave site of 20,000 slaves discovered in 1991 at a construction site in lower Manhattan, Abdullah said. The architect’s design process for the memorial included education and an urban presence, along with "cultural, symbolic, spiritual, international, and interactive participation," she said. "To me it means that we truly ‘walk on holy grounds.’ These Africans were brutally taken from their homes, chained in a boat for months, enslaved for a lifetime, and entombed in concrete for centuries, with the moneyed class walking over their bones. One story of one people, but what a story."
Concerns raised by the briefings included hate games and violent games played on the Internet, the need for prevention of genocide and mass killings, and psychological recovery and reconciliation following genocide.
Source: 4/23/2008 Newsline
Brethren bits: Remembrance, personnel, jobs, and much more.
- J. Earl Hostetter, 90, passed away April 18. He twice served as interim district executive minister for Northern Indiana District, in 1986 and again in 1994 when he worked in a half-time position as interim executive for pastoral care with duties including pastoral placement and care for pastors and their families. In other service to the denomination, he was a volunteer staff member for the Church of the Brethren General Board in the early 1990s, when he filled a position as evangelism volunteer staff working for the Evangelism Office. Beginning Sept. 1, 1991, he was appointed special ministries associate for the Evangelism Office and worked with emerging programs and Annual Conference events. He pastored New Paris (Ind.) Church of the Brethren from 1973 until his retirement in 1984, and served previous pastorates at Eel River in South Central Indiana District, at Oakland in Southern Ohio District, and at Everett in Middle Pennsylvania District. He also was an interim pastor for several Northern Indiana congregations. He is survived by his wife, Pearl, and their family. A memorial service will be held on April 26 at 11 a.m. at New Paris Church of the Brethren.
- Tom Birdzell, a Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) worker with the information services department at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., since Aug. 2007, has taken a new assignment through BVS. He will begin at Meeting Ground in Elkton, Md., in May.
- Three coordinators have been named for the 2009 youth and young adult workcamps, a program of the Youth and Young Adult Ministry of the Church of the Brethren General Board. Emily Laprade of Antioch Church of the Brethren in Rocky Mount, Va., and Meghan Horne of Mill Creek Church of the Brethren in Tryon, N.C., have been named as coordinators serving through Brethren Volunteer Service. Bekah Houff of Palmyra (Pa.) Church of the Brethren, who is coordinator for this year's National Young Adult Conference, will stay on as a part-time workcamp coordinator and program intern and also will coordinate the 2009 National Junior High Conference.
- An extended application date has been announced by the search committee of Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT), which is seeking applicants for the position of president. The application date has been extended to May 16. BBT’s offices are located at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill. The primary services of BBT are the administration of the Pension Plan and the Brethren Foundation. The president serves as chief executive officer for BBT, including all its corporate entities (Brethren Benefit Trust, Brethren Benefit Trust, Inc., and Brethren Foundation, Inc.). The president will oversee the administration and operations of BBT by leading, administering, managing, and inspiring the staff, modeling servant leadership. The president will guide BBT in its service to the Church of the Brethren by developing and maintaining mutually beneficial relationships with individuals and organizations which are affiliated with or share the values of the Church of the Brethren. The full position description can be found at www.brethrenbenefittrust.org. Church of the Brethren membership is preferred. The president will be expected to live in the Elgin area. Applicants are requested to send a current resume, cover letter, and three references via e-mail to Ralph McFadden, Search Committee Consultant, Hikermac@sbcglobal.net. Hard copies, if necessary, may be sent to 352 Shiloh Ct., Elgin, IL 60120. The Search Committee also is inviting nominations. Send the names of people who should be called to consider the position to any member of the Search Committee or to Ralph McFadden. The Search Committee is composed of Eunice Culp, chair; Harry Rhodes, BBT Board chair; Janice Bratton, BBT Board vice chair; Donna Forbes Steiner, BBT Board member; and Fred Bernhard, former longterm BBT Board member.
- The Global Mission Partnerships of the Church of the Brethren General Board seeks a couple or family as part of a lead team to begin a new ministry in Sudan, seeking to rebuild and heal communities after decades of war. As a holistic effort, it will include the formation of churches. A complementary team that includes people bringing one or more of the following skills is preferable: peace and conflict transformation, healthcare, church planting and Christian education, community development preferably with experience in emerging nations, dealing with trauma, and literacy and adult education. Candidates should bring education and experience in their area of specialty, experience in international cross-cultural settings, a team orientation, and grounding in Church of the Brethren identity and practice. Secondary skills in repair and maintenance of computers, household maintenance, or vehicle mechanics is useful. Candidates need to exhibit the following strengths: willingness to work in a strongly different cultural environment; patience in working with people and relationship building; openness to being changed and transformed in the process of doing the work; ability to live in settings that are at times hard to predict and control. Team members participate in raising their own support under General Board oversight. The application deadline for this position has been extended, with interviews and placement occurring during 2008. Request an application form from Karin Krog, Office of Human Resources, at 800-323-8039 ext. 258 or kkrog_gb@brethren.org.
- Global Mission Partnerships also seeks a teacher of Bible and theology at Kulp Bible College in Nigeria. Primary teaching assignments may include Brethren history and beliefs, Christian doctrine, faith and practice, New Testament. Teaching is at an academic level comparable to a US junior college, students are experienced church leaders. Courses are taught in English. Tasks include teaching and lecturing, developing and administering tests for student assessment, assisting in curriculum development, participating in school administration and supervision, accepting periodic leadership roles in the wider church. A master’s degree in theology, commitment to Christian beliefs and lifestyle, ability to work under Nigerian leadership, and ability to live and work in Africa are required. The preferred candidate will bring experience in teaching Bible, theology, or Christian education; willingness to learn conversational Hausa language; and experience in another culture. Because Kulp Bible College is the primary training ground for leadership in Ekklesiyar Yan'uwa a Nigeria (EYN--the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria), membership in the Church of the Brethren is preferred and knowledge of its polity and practice is expected. The college is operated by EYN and is located near the city of Mubi in northeast Nigeria. Compensation includes salary, housing, vehicle, and a basic medical insurance plan. A two-year commitment is expected. Candidates open to considering additional terms are preferred. The position is available in mid-2008. Complete the General Board application form, submit a resume and letter of application, and request three references to send letters of recommendation to the Office of Human Resources, Church of the Brethren General Board, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120-1694; 800-323-8039 ext. 258; kkrog_gb@brethren.org.
- Applications are available for those wishing to apply for a Brethren Volunteer Service position as 2010 National Youth Conference coordinator. The position begins in May 2009. Contact Chris Douglas, director of the Church of the Brethren’s Youth and Young Adult Ministry, at cdouglas_gb@brethren.org or 800-323-8039. Applications are due by Oct. 20.
- The On Earth Peace Board of Directors is inviting volunteers to share their time, energy, and skills with the organization. "We are now listing volunteer opportunities on our website and recognizing those who provide support as Peace Partners," said an announcement. The organization’s Peace Witness Action List specifically seeks a volunteer editor to gather news stories and write reflections on Christian peacemaking, distribute items to a list serv, and maintain a listserv and blog (contact Matt Guynn, coordinator of Peace Witness, at mattguynn@earthlink.net).
- The Annual Conference Office has announced a correction to the Annual Conference airline discount code. The group meeting discount code for airline travel to the Conference in Richmond, Va., was listed incorrectly in the Information Packet. The meeting discount code that should be supplied to United Airlines is 577RP. Those who are flying to the Conference and have not yet made reservations are invited to consider booking with United, the official airline of Annual Conference 2008, by calling 800-521-4041. The code has been changed and is shown correctly on the Annual Conference website, on the Information Packet pages.
- Bethany Theological Seminary will observe a "Sabbatical Day" on May 8. All employees will participate and the offices in Richmond, Ind., will be closed. The sabbatical day was approved by the Bethany Board of Trustees. "Bethany’s 2007-08 academic year has been overly filled with institutional transitions, faculty searches, core testimonies discussions, the Inaugural Forum, plus all the regular tasks associated with an educational institution," said president Ruthann Knechel Johansen. "This sabbatical day is intended to open space for rest, prayer or meditation, examination of conscience, and reflection on personal and institutional values and priorities."
- The Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., hosts the Cross Cultural Consultation and Celebration on April 25-26. About 130 people are to attend, along with denominational staff and members of three Chicago area churches hosting evening meals and worship services: Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin on April 24; First Church of the Brethren in Chicago on April 25, and Naperville Church of the Brethren on April 26. Worship services begin at 7 p.m. and are open to the public. The theme is "Separated No More" from Revelation 7:9.
- Health Promotion Sunday is May 18, sponsored by the Association of Brethren Caregivers. The theme is "Being Family: Growing in God’s Love" with the scriptures Ephesians 3:17b-19 and 1 John 4:7a. Resources to help congregations explore how families and faith communities can grow in God’s love are available at www.brethren-caregivers.org or call the ABC office at 800-323-8039. Resources include prayers and other worship resources, sample sermons, children’s stories, family activities, and bulletin inserts. ABC also invites congregations to celebrate May as Older Adult Month, with the theme "Aging with Grace" and scripture verses from Ephesians 5. See the website for related worship resources offered by the Older Adult Ministry.
- Children’s Disaster Services is offering Level 1 Training Workshops in Bethlehem, Pa., on April 25-26; and at the Tacoma (Wash.) Nature Center on June 20-21. The registration fee of $45 includes curriculum, meals, and lodging (the fee is $55 if participants register less than three weeks ahead). The workshop is for those who have an interest in volunteering for Children’s Disaster Services to support the needs of children after a disaster. Visit www.childrensdisasterservices.org for registration information or contact 800-451-4407 #5.
- On Earth Peace is calling for Living Peace Church Stories to share at the 2008 Annual Conference. "We look for stories of how individuals and congregations are living out the calling to be living peace churches," said an announcement. "These stories will be reported from the Conference floor microphones after On Earth Peace gives its agency report." Contact Annie Clark, coordinator of the Ministry of Reconciliation, at annie.clark@verizon.net.
- Williamson Road Church of the Brethren in Roanoke, Va., kicks off its 60th anniversary celebration with a Paul Todd Concert on May 3 at 7 p.m. Todd is a Christian artist performing a variety of musical styles while playing six keyboards simultaneously (www.paultodd.com).
- Elizabethtown (Pa.) Church of the Brethren held a "Ray Diener Memorial Benefit Concert" at Elizabethtown College’s Leffler Chapel in March. Diener was a member of the church who had worked to provide clean water to villages in Honduras, before he was killed on his own doorstep in a random act of violence last year. The concert featured the bands Along for the Ride, which grew out of jam sessions at the Elizabethtown church, according to the Atlantic Northeast District newsletter, and Bottom of the Bucket, whose members met while working at Gould Farm in Massachusetts, a Brethren Volunteer Service project.
- The 28th Annual Disaster Response Auction of Mid-Atlantic District will be held May 3, starting at 9 a.m., at the Carroll County Agricultural Center in Westminster, Md.
- A seminar titled "They Like Jesus, but Not the Church" is planned by Pacific Southwest District on May 3 at Pomona (Calif.) Fellowship Church of the Brethren. The seminar will be led by Dan Kimball, author of several books about the emerging church and emerging worship. He has been the high school pastor at Santa Cruz Bible Church, helped start a Sunday night "Graceland" worship service and ministry, and helped launched the Vintage Faith Church. Currently he is an adjunct faculty mentor at George Fox Evangelical Seminary. Cost is $25 or $15 for those under age 25. For more go to www.pswdcob.org/springevent.
- Fahrney-Keedy Home and Village, a Brethren retirement community near Boonsboro, Md., has received a $1,000 donation from the Nora Roberts Foundation for its Benevolent Fund assisting residents who run out of money to pay for care. The Nora Roberts Foundation is a means by which the best-selling Boonsboro author assists humanitarian and other nonprofit organizations.
- A special event at McPherson (Kan.) College benefits the Pat Noyes Scholarship Fund. Noyes was a member of the McPherson basketball program for two years before becoming involved with the Oklahoma State University basketball program. Along with nine others affiliated with OSU basketball, he was killed in a plane crash near Byers, Colo., in Jan. 2001. The 5th annual Pat Noyes Golf Experience and sports memorabilia auction will be held May 3 (see www.mcpherson.edu/noyes for a list of auction items). During the past five years over $30,000 has been raised for the fund, and the college has awarded two scholarships in his name.
- The May edition of "Brethren Voices," a 30-minute program made for Church of the Brethren congregations to offer on public access cable television, is on the topic, "Five Years of War in Iraq...The Occupation Continues." For three years, Brethren Voices has interviewed participants of peace rallies to allow them the opportunity to express their feelings about the war, said a release. The Iraq Body Count Exhibit also is featured. Brethren Voices is a ministry of Peace Church of the Brethren in Portland, Ore. Contact producer Ed Groff at groffprod1@msn.com.
- A group from Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT) has returned to the northern Kurdish area of Iraq. The Iraq team includes Church of the Brethren member Peggy Gish along with Anita David, Michele Naar-Obed, and Chihchun Yuan. In a letter to supporters, the team announced that CPT plans to resume delegations to Iraq, which have been suspended since Nov. 2005. The letter also requested prayer: "This is a time of a different kind of risk-taking for us. Please continue to hold us, this land, and its people in your thoughts and prayers." For more go to www.cpt.org.
Mission Alive 2008 celebrates past and present mission work.
The Mission Alive conference April 4-6 in Bridgewater, Va., was a celebration of past and present mission work in the Church of the Brethren. More than 125 people attended. (Go to www.brethren.org/pjournal/2008/MissionAlive for a photo journal from the conference.)
Sponsored by the Church of the Brethren General Board with support from the Brethren Revival Fellowship and Brethren World Missions, the conference was hosted by Bridgewater Church of the Brethren. The planning team included former executive director of Global Mission Partnerships Mervin Keeney and a steering committee of Linetta S.A. Ballew, program director of Camp Brethren Woods; Carl Brubaker, associate pastor of Midway Church of the Brethren in Lebanon, Pa.; Carol Spicher Waggy, former mission staff and member of Rock Run Church of the Brethren in Goshen, Ind.; and Larry Dentler, pastor of Bermudian Church of the Brethren in East Berlin, Pa.
The conference was an inspiring mix of thought-provoking presentations and relevant workshops, all held together by times of worship. The conference moved through a series of themes: the biblical calls to mission, celebrating a fruitful past, looking at leadership for transformation, cultivating faithful congregations, the challenges facing the church in mission, and cultivating a faithful future. The five times of worship were created and coordinated by Tara Hornbacker, associate professor of Ministry Formation at Bethany Theological Seminary, and Paul Roth, pastor of Linville Creek Church of the Brethren in Broadway, Va.The conference opened with worship, and moved directly into an exploration of the biblical basis for mission. Stephen Breck Reid, academic dean of Bethany Seminary, moderated presentations by Eugene Roop, former seminary president and Old Testament professor, and Dorothy Jean Weaver, a New Testament scholar from Eastern Mennonite University.
Roop highlighted the call of God in the Old Testament, noting that while such a call was rarely safe or comfortable, nevertheless blessing is to be found there. He also highlighted the Psalms as prayers that address the entire range of human experience, and urged attendees to realize that people in mission are a people in prayer. The call to share the Good News, making disciples of all nations, was clearly named as a dominant theme in the New Testament by Weaver, who described God as a sending God and the author of mission. Galen Hackman, former missionary and pastor of Ephrata (Pa.) Church of the Brethren, then shared a "report card" of how well Brethren have responded to these calls to mission.The celebration of a fruitful past included presentations by Ted & Trent; Rebecca Baile Crouse, former mission coordinator in the Dominican Republic and pastoral team member at Warrensburg (Mo.) Church of the Brethren; and a delightful multimedia review of mission work by David Sollenberger and A. Mack (played by Larry Glick). Representatives from the Brethren Church and Dunkard Brethren Church also shared some of their mission story. Paul E.R. Mundey, senior pastor at Frederick (Md.) Church of the Brethren, led a session about leadership for the missional church, and three reports came from people living out that vision in their local settings.
A discussion of challenges facing the church was led by Annual Conference moderator Jim Beckwith and Noffsinger. Along with the challenges, some encouraging news was shared, such as how current missions at home and abroad are making and deepening disciples, and how Church of the Brethren outreach to North Korea has resulted in an invitation for Brethren to participate in a new university there.
The event also recognized turning points for the denomination’s mission program. A special session was inserted into the conference schedule following the announcement of mission staff resignations. The session offered a time to meet with general secretary Stan Noffsinger and the Leadership Team of the General Board.
The conference concluded by looking to the future. A powerful presentation by Mano Rumalshah, bishop of the Diocese of Peshawar in the Church of Pakistan, explored the repressive situation of the Christian church in that primarily Muslim country. A video, "Burden of Faith and Pakistan Relief," showed the dire situation for many Christians, who are the lowest ranking people of the land and are often jobless. People in Pakistan still grieve the relatively recent killing of 17 Christians at St. Dominic’s Church. Rumalshah spoke of his deep appreciation of God who suffers with the people. There is a great deal of pressure to become Muslim, he said, and Christians are constantly being asked to convert.
Samuel Dali, a guest from Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN--the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria) said he identified with the Pakistani challenge of living with extremist Muslims. He shared about the destructions of EYN churches in the northern Nigeria city of Kano, during Muslim-Christian violence. The question for the conference was clear: What are we doing to show our solidarity with the Christians who suffer? It was suggested that they need more than our sympathy: when one suffers, we all suffer, and we must act together.
Mission Alive 2008 concluded with worship, led by Robert Alley, pastor of the Bridgewater congregation, who preached on the theme, "For All the World."Those who attended the conference felt the strong call to move forward with mission. A quote from Emil Brunner, and a response stated by one speaker, summarized that feeling: "The church is meant for mission as fire is meant for burning." Forgive us for taking too long to decide how to stack the wood.--Enten Eller is director of Distributed Education and Electronic Communication for Bethany Theological Seminary, and also served on the assessment team for the Sudan mission initiative. Mary Eller and Louise Rieman contributed to this report.
Source: 4/24/2008 Newsline Extra
The Mission Alive conference April 4-6 in Bridgewater, Va., was a celebration of past and present mission work in the Church of the Brethren. More than 125 people attended. (Go to www.brethren.org/pjournal/2008/MissionAlive for a photo journal from the conference.)
Sponsored by the Church of the Brethren General Board with support from the Brethren Revival Fellowship and Brethren World Missions, the conference was hosted by Bridgewater Church of the Brethren. The planning team included former executive director of Global Mission Partnerships Mervin Keeney and a steering committee of Linetta S.A. Ballew, program director of Camp Brethren Woods; Carl Brubaker, associate pastor of Midway Church of the Brethren in Lebanon, Pa.; Carol Spicher Waggy, former mission staff and member of Rock Run Church of the Brethren in Goshen, Ind.; and Larry Dentler, pastor of Bermudian Church of the Brethren in East Berlin, Pa.
The conference was an inspiring mix of thought-provoking presentations and relevant workshops, all held together by times of worship. The conference moved through a series of themes: the biblical calls to mission, celebrating a fruitful past, looking at leadership for transformation, cultivating faithful congregations, the challenges facing the church in mission, and cultivating a faithful future. The five times of worship were created and coordinated by Tara Hornbacker, associate professor of Ministry Formation at Bethany Theological Seminary, and Paul Roth, pastor of Linville Creek Church of the Brethren in Broadway, Va.The conference opened with worship, and moved directly into an exploration of the biblical basis for mission. Stephen Breck Reid, academic dean of Bethany Seminary, moderated presentations by Eugene Roop, former seminary president and Old Testament professor, and Dorothy Jean Weaver, a New Testament scholar from Eastern Mennonite University.
Roop highlighted the call of God in the Old Testament, noting that while such a call was rarely safe or comfortable, nevertheless blessing is to be found there. He also highlighted the Psalms as prayers that address the entire range of human experience, and urged attendees to realize that people in mission are a people in prayer. The call to share the Good News, making disciples of all nations, was clearly named as a dominant theme in the New Testament by Weaver, who described God as a sending God and the author of mission. Galen Hackman, former missionary and pastor of Ephrata (Pa.) Church of the Brethren, then shared a "report card" of how well Brethren have responded to these calls to mission.The celebration of a fruitful past included presentations by Ted & Trent; Rebecca Baile Crouse, former mission coordinator in the Dominican Republic and pastoral team member at Warrensburg (Mo.) Church of the Brethren; and a delightful multimedia review of mission work by David Sollenberger and A. Mack (played by Larry Glick). Representatives from the Brethren Church and Dunkard Brethren Church also shared some of their mission story. Paul E.R. Mundey, senior pastor at Frederick (Md.) Church of the Brethren, led a session about leadership for the missional church, and three reports came from people living out that vision in their local settings.
A discussion of challenges facing the church was led by Annual Conference moderator Jim Beckwith and Noffsinger. Along with the challenges, some encouraging news was shared, such as how current missions at home and abroad are making and deepening disciples, and how Church of the Brethren outreach to North Korea has resulted in an invitation for Brethren to participate in a new university there.
The event also recognized turning points for the denomination’s mission program. A special session was inserted into the conference schedule following the announcement of mission staff resignations. The session offered a time to meet with general secretary Stan Noffsinger and the Leadership Team of the General Board.
The conference concluded by looking to the future. A powerful presentation by Mano Rumalshah, bishop of the Diocese of Peshawar in the Church of Pakistan, explored the repressive situation of the Christian church in that primarily Muslim country. A video, "Burden of Faith and Pakistan Relief," showed the dire situation for many Christians, who are the lowest ranking people of the land and are often jobless. People in Pakistan still grieve the relatively recent killing of 17 Christians at St. Dominic’s Church. Rumalshah spoke of his deep appreciation of God who suffers with the people. There is a great deal of pressure to become Muslim, he said, and Christians are constantly being asked to convert.
Samuel Dali, a guest from Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN--the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria) said he identified with the Pakistani challenge of living with extremist Muslims. He shared about the destructions of EYN churches in the northern Nigeria city of Kano, during Muslim-Christian violence. The question for the conference was clear: What are we doing to show our solidarity with the Christians who suffer? It was suggested that they need more than our sympathy: when one suffers, we all suffer, and we must act together.
Mission Alive 2008 concluded with worship, led by Robert Alley, pastor of the Bridgewater congregation, who preached on the theme, "For All the World."Those who attended the conference felt the strong call to move forward with mission. A quote from Emil Brunner, and a response stated by one speaker, summarized that feeling: "The church is meant for mission as fire is meant for burning." Forgive us for taking too long to decide how to stack the wood.--Enten Eller is director of Distributed Education and Electronic Communication for Bethany Theological Seminary, and also served on the assessment team for the Sudan mission initiative. Mary Eller and Louise Rieman contributed to this report.
Source: 4/24/2008 Newsline Extra
Meetings are held on Haiti mission.
Future planning is well underway for the Church of the Brethren mission in Haiti, which has grown to three churches and six preaching points, with an estimated attendance of 500-600 people. The Haiti Mission Advisory Committee met for six hours at l’Eglise des Freres (Church of the Brethren) in Miami, Fla., on April 12 to develop broad-based, long-range recommendations for ongoing ministry. In a follow-up teleconference meeting April 21, committee members worked with General Board staff to begin implementing the new plans.
The context for the intense visioning is the Haiti mission reaching the five-year mark. Merle Crouse, chair of the meeting, said, "We are seeing amazing progress in reaching new people and developing leadership. We believe that the mission in Haiti has a great start. The next five-year phase is beginning, and will require a lot of wisdom, discipline and strategic resourcing to move the new Haitian church forward in a healthy way."
The advisory committee includes Ludovic St. Fleur, pastor, and Mary Ridores of l’Eglise des Freres; Jeff Boshart, former Dominican Republic economic development staff; Jonathan Cadette and Wayne Sutton of First Church of the Brethren in Miami; Merle Crouse, former mission worker and retired General Board staff member; and R. Jan Thompson, the General Board’s interim executive director of Global Mission Partnerships.
Recommendations from the April 12 meeting addressed both the immediate food crisis in Haiti and the need for a long-range agriculture program. The committee continues to see the need to purchase land; ownership of property and the establishment of social service programs are necessary for a denomination to be granted full legal status by the Haitian government. Other agenda items involved recommending to the General Board the licensing to ministry of nine congregational leaders. The group also requested financial assistance for a Leadership Training Seminar in Haiti for 2008, after a successful event last year.
In the April 21 conference call, committee members met with general secretary Stan Noffsinger and Thompson to begin implementing the recommendations. Progress was made on the following issues:
The current food crisis in Haiti. Ecumenical partners will be contacted for shared responses to the crisis, if possible through Haitian Church of the Brethren congregations. People in Haiti are dying of hunger, St. Fleur said. "As a church, we are interested not only in eternal life for our people, but also how they are living right now," he told the committee.
2008 Leadership Training Seminar. Financial undergirding will be provided by the General Board for a second Leadership Training Seminar to be held in August in Haiti. After an initial successful event last year, with 61 participants and 42 completing the course, even more registrants are expected this year. The planners will invite resource people from other denominational overseas programs to be part of the team of instructors.
Licensing of congregational leaders. General Board staff will determine processes and procedures to interview candidates for licensing to ministry at the Leadership Training Seminar, anticipating that they will be presented for approval to the new Church of the Brethren Mission and Ministry Board in October.
Purchase of property. St. Fleur was charged with the task of further fact-finding on a property in the capital city of Port au Prince.
The next meeting of the Haiti Mission Advisory Committee is planned for Nov. 22.
--Janis Pyle is coordinator for mission connections for Global Mission Partnerships.
Source: 4/24/2008 Newsline Extra
Future planning is well underway for the Church of the Brethren mission in Haiti, which has grown to three churches and six preaching points, with an estimated attendance of 500-600 people. The Haiti Mission Advisory Committee met for six hours at l’Eglise des Freres (Church of the Brethren) in Miami, Fla., on April 12 to develop broad-based, long-range recommendations for ongoing ministry. In a follow-up teleconference meeting April 21, committee members worked with General Board staff to begin implementing the new plans.
The context for the intense visioning is the Haiti mission reaching the five-year mark. Merle Crouse, chair of the meeting, said, "We are seeing amazing progress in reaching new people and developing leadership. We believe that the mission in Haiti has a great start. The next five-year phase is beginning, and will require a lot of wisdom, discipline and strategic resourcing to move the new Haitian church forward in a healthy way."
The advisory committee includes Ludovic St. Fleur, pastor, and Mary Ridores of l’Eglise des Freres; Jeff Boshart, former Dominican Republic economic development staff; Jonathan Cadette and Wayne Sutton of First Church of the Brethren in Miami; Merle Crouse, former mission worker and retired General Board staff member; and R. Jan Thompson, the General Board’s interim executive director of Global Mission Partnerships.
Recommendations from the April 12 meeting addressed both the immediate food crisis in Haiti and the need for a long-range agriculture program. The committee continues to see the need to purchase land; ownership of property and the establishment of social service programs are necessary for a denomination to be granted full legal status by the Haitian government. Other agenda items involved recommending to the General Board the licensing to ministry of nine congregational leaders. The group also requested financial assistance for a Leadership Training Seminar in Haiti for 2008, after a successful event last year.
In the April 21 conference call, committee members met with general secretary Stan Noffsinger and Thompson to begin implementing the recommendations. Progress was made on the following issues:
The current food crisis in Haiti. Ecumenical partners will be contacted for shared responses to the crisis, if possible through Haitian Church of the Brethren congregations. People in Haiti are dying of hunger, St. Fleur said. "As a church, we are interested not only in eternal life for our people, but also how they are living right now," he told the committee.
2008 Leadership Training Seminar. Financial undergirding will be provided by the General Board for a second Leadership Training Seminar to be held in August in Haiti. After an initial successful event last year, with 61 participants and 42 completing the course, even more registrants are expected this year. The planners will invite resource people from other denominational overseas programs to be part of the team of instructors.
Licensing of congregational leaders. General Board staff will determine processes and procedures to interview candidates for licensing to ministry at the Leadership Training Seminar, anticipating that they will be presented for approval to the new Church of the Brethren Mission and Ministry Board in October.
Purchase of property. St. Fleur was charged with the task of further fact-finding on a property in the capital city of Port au Prince.
The next meeting of the Haiti Mission Advisory Committee is planned for Nov. 22.
--Janis Pyle is coordinator for mission connections for Global Mission Partnerships.
Source: 4/24/2008 Newsline Extra
General secretary calls new advisory group for mission program.
A new advisory group has been called to help guide the denomination's mission program. Stan Noffsinger, general secretary of the Church of the Brethren General Board, has announced the appointment of the group, which will hold a first meeting on May 2 by conference call.
Those named to the mission advisory group are Bob Kettering, senior pastor of Lititz (Pa.) Church of the Brethren; Dale Minnich, a member of the General Board and former staff member; James F. Myer, vice chairman of the Brethren Revival Fellowship; Louise Baldwin Rieman, co-pastor of Northview Church of the Brethren in Indianapolis, and a member of the assessment team for the Sudan mission initiative; Carol Spicher Waggy, who has been a mission worker in Nigeria and the Dominican Republic; Earl K. Ziegler, a retired minister and a past moderator of Annual Conference; and Mary Jo Flory-Steury, executive director of Ministry for the General Board. R. Jan Thompson will be involved in the first meeting of the group, as interim executive director of the board’s Global Mission Partnerships.
Source: 4/24/2008 Newsline Extra
A new advisory group has been called to help guide the denomination's mission program. Stan Noffsinger, general secretary of the Church of the Brethren General Board, has announced the appointment of the group, which will hold a first meeting on May 2 by conference call.
Those named to the mission advisory group are Bob Kettering, senior pastor of Lititz (Pa.) Church of the Brethren; Dale Minnich, a member of the General Board and former staff member; James F. Myer, vice chairman of the Brethren Revival Fellowship; Louise Baldwin Rieman, co-pastor of Northview Church of the Brethren in Indianapolis, and a member of the assessment team for the Sudan mission initiative; Carol Spicher Waggy, who has been a mission worker in Nigeria and the Dominican Republic; Earl K. Ziegler, a retired minister and a past moderator of Annual Conference; and Mary Jo Flory-Steury, executive director of Ministry for the General Board. R. Jan Thompson will be involved in the first meeting of the group, as interim executive director of the board’s Global Mission Partnerships.
Source: 4/24/2008 Newsline Extra
Reid resigns as academic dean at Bethany Theological Seminary.
Stephen Breck Reid, academic dean at Bethany Theological Seminary, has accepted a position as professor of Hebrew Bible at George W. Truett Theological Seminary in Waco, Texas, beginning Aug. 1. He has served in his current position at Bethany Seminary since 2003.
As academic dean, Reid led the work of the seminary’s teaching faculty and the administration of the Brethren Journal Association. He gave oversight to partnerships with the Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center and the Church of the Brethren General Board to offer graduate and undergraduate ministry training opportunities through offsite courses and the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership.
He also facilitated much of the process of a 10-year accreditation review with the Association of Theological Schools and the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools, completed in 2006.
Reid graduated from Bethany in 1976 and earned a Ph.D. from Emory University in Atlanta, Ga., in 1981. He was professor of Old Testament Studies at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary prior to joining the Bethany faculty. He also served as an adjunct professor at Bethany for many years, and was a member of the Board of Trustees from 1990-98.
"It is with deep regret that I accept the resignation of Stephen Breck Reid," said Bethany president Ruthann Knechel Johansen. "As academic dean, Steve has served the Bethany faculty, the students, and the denomination eminently through his passion for preaching and teaching, particularly the Hebrew language and Hebrew Bible, his devotion to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and his commitment to the Church of the Brethren. To the faculty he has been both a fine mentor for creative teaching and a strong supporter of faculty members' scholarly research and publication. He has been a prophetic voice in the denomination."
Source: 4/24/2008 Newsline Extra
Stephen Breck Reid, academic dean at Bethany Theological Seminary, has accepted a position as professor of Hebrew Bible at George W. Truett Theological Seminary in Waco, Texas, beginning Aug. 1. He has served in his current position at Bethany Seminary since 2003.
As academic dean, Reid led the work of the seminary’s teaching faculty and the administration of the Brethren Journal Association. He gave oversight to partnerships with the Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center and the Church of the Brethren General Board to offer graduate and undergraduate ministry training opportunities through offsite courses and the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership.
He also facilitated much of the process of a 10-year accreditation review with the Association of Theological Schools and the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools, completed in 2006.
Reid graduated from Bethany in 1976 and earned a Ph.D. from Emory University in Atlanta, Ga., in 1981. He was professor of Old Testament Studies at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary prior to joining the Bethany faculty. He also served as an adjunct professor at Bethany for many years, and was a member of the Board of Trustees from 1990-98.
"It is with deep regret that I accept the resignation of Stephen Breck Reid," said Bethany president Ruthann Knechel Johansen. "As academic dean, Steve has served the Bethany faculty, the students, and the denomination eminently through his passion for preaching and teaching, particularly the Hebrew language and Hebrew Bible, his devotion to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and his commitment to the Church of the Brethren. To the faculty he has been both a fine mentor for creative teaching and a strong supporter of faculty members' scholarly research and publication. He has been a prophetic voice in the denomination."
Source: 4/24/2008 Newsline Extra
Mutual Aid Association leadership to change hands.
President Jean L. Hendricks has announced that she will retire from the Mutual Aid Association (MAA). She has served as president of the church-related insurance company, headquartered in Abilene, Kan., since 2001.
The Mutual Aid Board of Directors has chosen Eric K. Lamer, president of MarketAide Services, Inc., to succeed Hendricks. Lamer will resign his position with the marketing communications firm based in Salina, Kan., to assume the presidency of MAA on May 1.
Hendricks joined MAA in 1995 as a board member and became board chair in 2000. During her tenure, she guided MAA through a time of transition, helped stabilize many company guidelines, and maintained the organization’s role in the Church of the Brethren. Hendricks holds degrees from McPherson (Kan.) College, Bethany Theological Seminary, and the University of Kansas. She has held professional roles as a teacher, pastor, lay ministry administrator, and church relations director. In retirement, she looks forward to pursuing music and other personal interests, and spending time with grandchildren.
Lamer started at MarketAide in 1986 as a production and traffic manager, and subsequently served as an account executive and account supervisor, vice president of advertising, and chief operating officer. He became president in 1999 when MarketAide's founder and first president retired. During his years at MarketAide, he served as the primary account executive for the largest accounts. He was directly involved in creating marketing plans and advertising and direct marketing campaigns, as well as company management and new business development. In addition, he supervised production of corporate videos, radio and television advertising, lead tracking and prospecting programs, trade show exhibits, and other services.
Previously, he was a product communications manager for Premier Pneumatics, Inc. in Salina, and was director of public relations for Kansas Technical Institute, now Kansas State University-Salina. He is a native of Salina, and graduated in 1979 from the William Allen White School of Journalism at the University of Kansas. He has served as a member of Salina's Convention and Tourism Committee, YMCA Membership and Marketing Committee, and Public Relations/Special Events Committee of the Salina United Way, and is a past president of the Salina Community Theatre Board of Directors. He is an active member of Salina's Trinity Lutheran Church, where he currently serves as assistant executive director.
Source: 4/24/2008 Newsline Extra
President Jean L. Hendricks has announced that she will retire from the Mutual Aid Association (MAA). She has served as president of the church-related insurance company, headquartered in Abilene, Kan., since 2001.
The Mutual Aid Board of Directors has chosen Eric K. Lamer, president of MarketAide Services, Inc., to succeed Hendricks. Lamer will resign his position with the marketing communications firm based in Salina, Kan., to assume the presidency of MAA on May 1.
Hendricks joined MAA in 1995 as a board member and became board chair in 2000. During her tenure, she guided MAA through a time of transition, helped stabilize many company guidelines, and maintained the organization’s role in the Church of the Brethren. Hendricks holds degrees from McPherson (Kan.) College, Bethany Theological Seminary, and the University of Kansas. She has held professional roles as a teacher, pastor, lay ministry administrator, and church relations director. In retirement, she looks forward to pursuing music and other personal interests, and spending time with grandchildren.
Lamer started at MarketAide in 1986 as a production and traffic manager, and subsequently served as an account executive and account supervisor, vice president of advertising, and chief operating officer. He became president in 1999 when MarketAide's founder and first president retired. During his years at MarketAide, he served as the primary account executive for the largest accounts. He was directly involved in creating marketing plans and advertising and direct marketing campaigns, as well as company management and new business development. In addition, he supervised production of corporate videos, radio and television advertising, lead tracking and prospecting programs, trade show exhibits, and other services.
Previously, he was a product communications manager for Premier Pneumatics, Inc. in Salina, and was director of public relations for Kansas Technical Institute, now Kansas State University-Salina. He is a native of Salina, and graduated in 1979 from the William Allen White School of Journalism at the University of Kansas. He has served as a member of Salina's Convention and Tourism Committee, YMCA Membership and Marketing Committee, and Public Relations/Special Events Committee of the Salina United Way, and is a past president of the Salina Community Theatre Board of Directors. He is an active member of Salina's Trinity Lutheran Church, where he currently serves as assistant executive director.
Source: 4/24/2008 Newsline Extra
Shari McCabe to work with Fellowship of Brethren Homes.
The Fellowship of Brethren Homes has announced an affiliation with Shari McCabe, retiring CEO of The Cedars of McPherson, Kan. She has been active in the longterm care industry for more than 30 years, including years as an education coordinator, industry publisher, health care administrator, and chief executive officer.
McCabe joins Don Fecher, director of the Fellowship of Brethren Homes, whose work will continue with a focus on the financial and insurance aspects of the work of the fellowship. McCabe’s work will include visiting the fellowship’s 20-plus facilities, organizing the annual Forum meetings, and keeping the lines of communication strong among leaders of the organizations. She anticipates establishing a presence in the various activities of the wider church as well as representing the fellowship at already established meetings and functions, such as the Peace Church Risk Retention Insurance Group, alliance meetings with other denominations, and Brethren gatherings. She can be contacted at pmccabe3@cox.net or 620-669-0840.
Source: 4/24/2008 Newsline Extra
The Fellowship of Brethren Homes has announced an affiliation with Shari McCabe, retiring CEO of The Cedars of McPherson, Kan. She has been active in the longterm care industry for more than 30 years, including years as an education coordinator, industry publisher, health care administrator, and chief executive officer.
McCabe joins Don Fecher, director of the Fellowship of Brethren Homes, whose work will continue with a focus on the financial and insurance aspects of the work of the fellowship. McCabe’s work will include visiting the fellowship’s 20-plus facilities, organizing the annual Forum meetings, and keeping the lines of communication strong among leaders of the organizations. She anticipates establishing a presence in the various activities of the wider church as well as representing the fellowship at already established meetings and functions, such as the Peace Church Risk Retention Insurance Group, alliance meetings with other denominations, and Brethren gatherings. She can be contacted at pmccabe3@cox.net or 620-669-0840.
Source: 4/24/2008 Newsline Extra
Credits
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board, cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. Lerry Fogle, Matt Guynn, Rachel Kauffman, Gimbiya Kettering, Cindy Dell Kinnamon, Karin Krog, Michael Leiter, LethaJoy Martin, Nancy Miner, Howard Royer, Marcia Shetler, and Walt Wiltschek contributed to this report.
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board, cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. Lerry Fogle, Matt Guynn, Rachel Kauffman, Gimbiya Kettering, Cindy Dell Kinnamon, Karin Krog, Michael Leiter, LethaJoy Martin, Nancy Miner, Howard Royer, Marcia Shetler, and Walt Wiltschek contributed to this report.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Brethren are at work with unique recycling company.
Two Church of the Brethren members have joined the team of TerraCycle, Inc., a company based in Trenton, N.J., that focuses on environmental action through recycling. Kelsey Swanson and Michael Waas Smith have recently joined the TerraCycle staff.
Waas Smith is director of TerraCycle's new "Cookie Wrapper Brigade." He recommends the organization's five Brigade programs as fundraising opportunities for Church of the Brethren groups, particularly youth groups that may be looking for new ways to raise money for National Youth Conference.
The Brigade programs offer opportunities for schools and community groups--including churches--to join nationwide recycling fundraisers, working with the manufacturers of a variety of products. Groups collect previously non-recyclable or hard-to-recycle items in return for cash, while teaching about the environment. Anyone can sign up for the free programs and start earning donations for a local nonprofit. Participants receive free shipping collection bags or boxes.
Five recycling efforts are taking place: groups are being challenged to collect used soda bottles, yogurt containers, energy bar wrappers, used drink pouches, and cookie wrappers. In the "Drink Pouch Brigade," nonprofit groups will earn 2 cents per used drink pouch they collect. In the "Yogurt Brigade," groups earn 2 cents for every 6-ounce yogurt container, and 5 cents for every 32-ounce yogurt container they return (all yogurt containers must be cleaned). The "Bottle Brigade" pays 5 cents for every 20-ounce soda bottle. The "Wrapper Brigade" pays 2 cents for every energy bar or granola bar wrapper. The brand new "Cookie Wrapper Brigade" was just launched last week, Waas Smith said.
TerraCycle explains the need for such recycling programs: "Fruit drink pouches are a staple in American school cafeterias. According to the Container Recycling Institute, over 5 billion drink pouches are produced every year. Because the material used to makes these pouches is non-recyclable, virtually every single one is sent to a landfill. Similarly, more then 10 billion yogurt containers are consumed a year in America. In the case of Stonyfield Farm, its yogurt cups are made from Polypropylene Plastic #5. A study by the Center for Sustainable Systems determined #5 was the most environmentally preferred choice of plastic available for Stonyfield Farm yogurt because it allows the cups to use a minimal amount of plastic. However, since many recycling centers are not equipped to handle #5 cups, Stonyfield Farm teamed up with TerraCycle to save these from the landfills."
TerraCycle has more than 400 Yogurt Brigade locations and 700 locations involved in the Drink Pouch Brigade, and its Bottle Brigade recycling program broke 4,000 locations in 2007.
Recycled drink pouches will be made into handbags, tote bags, backpacks, and pencil cases for children and adults. Once returned to TerraCycle, yogurt containers are hand painted by inner-city artists and shipped to nurseries to replace non-recyclable plastic planting pots used by nurseries and retailers. The pots, called YoPlanter! are a way to lessen the more than 10 million plastic pots that are discarded each year.
Soda bottles are used to package TerraCycle's Organic Worm Poop fertilizers. TerraCycle feeds food and paper waste to millions of worms to create an organic fertilizer, which is packaged in reused soda bottles. "It was the world 's first product that is made from and packaged in waste!" said the release from TerraCycle. The Bottle Brigade has helped TerraCycle reuse over 2 million soda bottles in the last three years.
For more information about Brigade programs, visit www.terracycle.net/brigades.
Source: 4/22/2008 Earth Day Newsline
Two Church of the Brethren members have joined the team of TerraCycle, Inc., a company based in Trenton, N.J., that focuses on environmental action through recycling. Kelsey Swanson and Michael Waas Smith have recently joined the TerraCycle staff.
Waas Smith is director of TerraCycle's new "Cookie Wrapper Brigade." He recommends the organization's five Brigade programs as fundraising opportunities for Church of the Brethren groups, particularly youth groups that may be looking for new ways to raise money for National Youth Conference.
The Brigade programs offer opportunities for schools and community groups--including churches--to join nationwide recycling fundraisers, working with the manufacturers of a variety of products. Groups collect previously non-recyclable or hard-to-recycle items in return for cash, while teaching about the environment. Anyone can sign up for the free programs and start earning donations for a local nonprofit. Participants receive free shipping collection bags or boxes.
Five recycling efforts are taking place: groups are being challenged to collect used soda bottles, yogurt containers, energy bar wrappers, used drink pouches, and cookie wrappers. In the "Drink Pouch Brigade," nonprofit groups will earn 2 cents per used drink pouch they collect. In the "Yogurt Brigade," groups earn 2 cents for every 6-ounce yogurt container, and 5 cents for every 32-ounce yogurt container they return (all yogurt containers must be cleaned). The "Bottle Brigade" pays 5 cents for every 20-ounce soda bottle. The "Wrapper Brigade" pays 2 cents for every energy bar or granola bar wrapper. The brand new "Cookie Wrapper Brigade" was just launched last week, Waas Smith said.
TerraCycle explains the need for such recycling programs: "Fruit drink pouches are a staple in American school cafeterias. According to the Container Recycling Institute, over 5 billion drink pouches are produced every year. Because the material used to makes these pouches is non-recyclable, virtually every single one is sent to a landfill. Similarly, more then 10 billion yogurt containers are consumed a year in America. In the case of Stonyfield Farm, its yogurt cups are made from Polypropylene Plastic #5. A study by the Center for Sustainable Systems determined #5 was the most environmentally preferred choice of plastic available for Stonyfield Farm yogurt because it allows the cups to use a minimal amount of plastic. However, since many recycling centers are not equipped to handle #5 cups, Stonyfield Farm teamed up with TerraCycle to save these from the landfills."
TerraCycle has more than 400 Yogurt Brigade locations and 700 locations involved in the Drink Pouch Brigade, and its Bottle Brigade recycling program broke 4,000 locations in 2007.
Recycled drink pouches will be made into handbags, tote bags, backpacks, and pencil cases for children and adults. Once returned to TerraCycle, yogurt containers are hand painted by inner-city artists and shipped to nurseries to replace non-recyclable plastic planting pots used by nurseries and retailers. The pots, called YoPlanter! are a way to lessen the more than 10 million plastic pots that are discarded each year.
Soda bottles are used to package TerraCycle's Organic Worm Poop fertilizers. TerraCycle feeds food and paper waste to millions of worms to create an organic fertilizer, which is packaged in reused soda bottles. "It was the world 's first product that is made from and packaged in waste!" said the release from TerraCycle. The Bottle Brigade has helped TerraCycle reuse over 2 million soda bottles in the last three years.
For more information about Brigade programs, visit www.terracycle.net/brigades.
Source: 4/22/2008 Earth Day Newsline
Juniata College to establish Chestnut species orchard.
A couple of decades after Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote of "a spreading chestnut tree" in his poem "The Village Blacksmith," many of the American chestnut trees across the country were dead or dying from a blight. Juniata College is playing a small part in trying to bring the species back by creating a chestnut "orchard" on campus. Juniata is a Church of the Brethren related college in Huntingdon, Pa.
While the college lacks a "village smithy" to place the chestnut trees near, it does have a grassy area behind Brumbaugh Academic Center. That is where Uma Ramakrishnan, assistant professor of environmental science, will oversee a 25,000 square foot plot (a bit more than half an acre) of 120 trees in a collaborative project between the college and the American Chestnut Foundation. Eventually the college will add 90 more trees.
"The orchard will be used for research on a variety of factors concerning the American chestnut, as well as other chestnut species," said Ramakrishnan. "We will have multiple species of chestnut in the orchard and hopefully this will become a spot where we can not only do research, but also bring in classes from secondary and elementary schools."
Ramakrishnan said the college will plant about 120 seeded plants on or around April 3. Juniata's facilities staff will plow up the area, creating an orchard space that will be about 20 feet from the tree line surrounding the meadow and distributed 15 to 20 feet apart. The orchard will be irregularly shaped and will be planted around the Paul Hickes Observatory.
This year, the college will plant four species: the pure American chestnut, the Chinese chestnut, a hybrid American chestnut (crossbred with a disease resistant Chinese chestnut), and the European chestnut. "We also would like to plant the Japanese chestnut and the Chinquapin, a native chestnut species, next year," Ramakrishnan said.
Once the trees are planted, Ramakrishnan and a team of Juniata environmental science students will monitor the stand of trees, pesticide and fungicide treatments, reproduction, nut production, and other factors.
Prior to 1900, the American chestnut was one of the dominant hardwood trees in American forests, used for furniture, lumber, and other products. The trees easily grew 100 to 150 feet high and could reach 10 feet in diameter. After the turn of the century, botanists noted that chestnuts were afflicted with chestnut blight, a disease caused by an Asian bark fungus. The disease was introduced through imported Chinese chestnuts, which were, and still are, resistant to the blight. Within a decade or two, billions of American chestnuts died off. It is estimated that 25 percent of the Appalachian forest had been comprised of chestnuts.
Ramakrishnan, is a wildlife biologist by training, and was originally approached by Rick Entriken, a local representative for the American Chestnut Foundation. Entriken donated seeds for the project and has acted as an advisor for chestnut growing. He also manages a chestnut orchard near Raystown Lake for the US Army Corps of Engineers.
The care and research of the orchard will begin in the hands of Ashley Musgrove, a senior student from Cumberland, Md. She will be researching and implementing methods to protect the young trees from deer, and working with a team of other students for management of the orchard.
--John Wall is director of media relations for Juniata College.
Source: 4/22/2008 Earth Day Newsline
A couple of decades after Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote of "a spreading chestnut tree" in his poem "The Village Blacksmith," many of the American chestnut trees across the country were dead or dying from a blight. Juniata College is playing a small part in trying to bring the species back by creating a chestnut "orchard" on campus. Juniata is a Church of the Brethren related college in Huntingdon, Pa.
While the college lacks a "village smithy" to place the chestnut trees near, it does have a grassy area behind Brumbaugh Academic Center. That is where Uma Ramakrishnan, assistant professor of environmental science, will oversee a 25,000 square foot plot (a bit more than half an acre) of 120 trees in a collaborative project between the college and the American Chestnut Foundation. Eventually the college will add 90 more trees.
"The orchard will be used for research on a variety of factors concerning the American chestnut, as well as other chestnut species," said Ramakrishnan. "We will have multiple species of chestnut in the orchard and hopefully this will become a spot where we can not only do research, but also bring in classes from secondary and elementary schools."
Ramakrishnan said the college will plant about 120 seeded plants on or around April 3. Juniata's facilities staff will plow up the area, creating an orchard space that will be about 20 feet from the tree line surrounding the meadow and distributed 15 to 20 feet apart. The orchard will be irregularly shaped and will be planted around the Paul Hickes Observatory.
This year, the college will plant four species: the pure American chestnut, the Chinese chestnut, a hybrid American chestnut (crossbred with a disease resistant Chinese chestnut), and the European chestnut. "We also would like to plant the Japanese chestnut and the Chinquapin, a native chestnut species, next year," Ramakrishnan said.
Once the trees are planted, Ramakrishnan and a team of Juniata environmental science students will monitor the stand of trees, pesticide and fungicide treatments, reproduction, nut production, and other factors.
Prior to 1900, the American chestnut was one of the dominant hardwood trees in American forests, used for furniture, lumber, and other products. The trees easily grew 100 to 150 feet high and could reach 10 feet in diameter. After the turn of the century, botanists noted that chestnuts were afflicted with chestnut blight, a disease caused by an Asian bark fungus. The disease was introduced through imported Chinese chestnuts, which were, and still are, resistant to the blight. Within a decade or two, billions of American chestnuts died off. It is estimated that 25 percent of the Appalachian forest had been comprised of chestnuts.
Ramakrishnan, is a wildlife biologist by training, and was originally approached by Rick Entriken, a local representative for the American Chestnut Foundation. Entriken donated seeds for the project and has acted as an advisor for chestnut growing. He also manages a chestnut orchard near Raystown Lake for the US Army Corps of Engineers.
The care and research of the orchard will begin in the hands of Ashley Musgrove, a senior student from Cumberland, Md. She will be researching and implementing methods to protect the young trees from deer, and working with a team of other students for management of the orchard.
--John Wall is director of media relations for Juniata College.
Source: 4/22/2008 Earth Day Newsline
Brethren bits: Pastors' canoe trip, Great Green Congregations.
- A "Spirituality Retreat for Pastors and Church Leaders" is being offered as part of the Camp Swatara Adult Ministries Program this year, according to an announcement from Atlantic Northeast District. Dennis and Marti Shaak, seasoned canoe trip leaders and guides, are offering an opportunity for pastors and others engaged in pastoral leadership to enter into a time of authentic spiritual retreat, combining times of guided reflection led by Oasis-certified spiritual director Vicki Kensinger, and canoe excursions or hikes in Algonquin Provincial Park. "Our aim is to revitalize both body and spirit and to allow for reconnection with the earth in one of the last remaining wilderness areas," the announcement said. Departure will be from Camp Swatara in Bethel, Pa., on Sept. 5 after an overnight stay at the camp, with return on Sept. 11. Cost, based on a maximum group size of nine people, will be around $600. No prior experience camping or canoeing is necessary, although there are requirements for gear and a passport, and participants should be in good physical condition. Registration and payment are due by June 2. Contact Camp Swatara for registration materials, call 717-933-8510.
- The National Council of Churches seeks stories from "Great Green Congregations." An announcement said, "Tell us what your church is doing for the earth, and the NCC will share your story to inspire others. We'll also select one congregation to receive a $500 prize to support its environmental work." The NCC is looking for congregations advocating for environmental justice at the local, state, and national levels; teaching about environmental justice and health in their churches and communities; hosting "Green Cleaning" fellowship activities; promoting wilderness protection through trips, education, and worship; supporting alternative transportation to worship; conserving energy and using green energy sources; reducing waste in all aspects of church life; and/or engaged in their own unique, location-specific eco-justice ministries. Go to www.nccecojustice.org/greencontest.html for submission guidelines. The deadline for sending congregational stories is April 30.
- At a workshop on simple living held at Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin, Ill., the presenter showed a 20-minute video called "The Story of Stuff." This fast-paced, animated piece explains the processes and stories behind the stuff consumers buy and throw away. Find the video, and more, at www.storyofstuff.com.
Had I Looked Around the Corner: Thoughts on William Stafford
By Brian Nixon
"I stand and dream another world instead," wrote William Stafford in the year 1942. Stafford wrote this as a conscientious objector during World War II, stationed as a Civilian Public Servant in California.
As providence would have it, Stafford became Poetry Consultant of the Unites States Library of Congress in 1971 and Poet Laureate of Oregon in 1975.
Stafford is the author of over 60 books of poetry, verse, and stories. As a participant in the Church of the Brethren, William was a voice in the wilderness, seeking, as our quote above stated, "another world instead."
My first encounter with Mr. Stafford came at the 1991 Annual Conference of the Church of the Brethren, held in Portland, Ore. The theme that year was "Behold! The Wonder of God's Presence."
I drove up with a friend of mine, Isaac Docter, and camped out just north of the city. We drove into Portland daily to hear lectures on a variety of topics: peace, justice, Native American issues, and most importantly, how to follow Jesus. I still have vivid memories of my time listening to artists, storytellers, theologians, and musicians. However, in hindsight, it was at this conference that I had one of my greatest disappointments: not meeting William Stafford.
As an impressionable college student, I looked over the plethora of lectures, seeing one that read, "Poetry Reading: William Stafford." This sounded great to me, but I was unsure of exactly who Stafford was. As a member of the Church of the Brethren, I had heard of Mr. Stafford, but was not yet quite "into" him. I knew he published a book of poetry with Brethren Press called "A Scripture of Leaves," and was well loved among the Brethren folk.
But as I stood there and looked at the other conference offerings, I finally decided upon a folk group concert instead (you see, I was "into" music). Imagine that! I chose a now-forgotten folk group over William Stafford!
I went to the folk concert and listened. I sat there, unimpressed. Mainly because I knew I should be at the Stafford reading (something was nagging me that he was important). So, when the opportunity arose, I left the concert and ran over to the room where Stafford was reading. I looked in the door; the room was packed.
I decided to sit outside the room, listening to the final couple of poems. To this day, I don't remember which poems he finished his reading with. And even more disappointing, I didn't look into the room to see Mr. Stafford reading the poems.
Had I looked around the corner, I would have seen the poet that, over the next 15 years of my life, would bring me great pleasure and thought; someone I would turn to over and over again.
To make up for my mistake of not getting his book at the Brethren conference, I called Brethren Press (a couple years after) to see if they had his book, "A Scripture of Leaves." To my great surprise, they did. Even a greater surprise was that the book was one of the last signed copies. It now sits prominently on my shelf.
I now collect William Stafford books. And since that first great purchase, I have found many treasures. My favorite is a first edition signed copy of "Traveling Through the Dark" (a collectors dream, largely because it was the book he won the National Book Award in 1963).
Yet through all this collecting and book searching, I have found Stafford, through his poetry, to be a gentle reminder that there is another way of living. And as Christians, we do, indeed, look for "another world instead": the coming of God's kingdom, the establishment of His world, a dream that is really a reality yet unseen.
So until then, we abide, live, and work for building the Kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.
And somehow William Stafford knew this, for in his poem, Reading The Big Weather (found in "A Scripture of Leaves"), he summarized the tension of living for Kingdom and waiting for the Kingdom:
Source: 4/22/2008 Earth Day Newsline
By Brian Nixon
"I stand and dream another world instead," wrote William Stafford in the year 1942. Stafford wrote this as a conscientious objector during World War II, stationed as a Civilian Public Servant in California.
As providence would have it, Stafford became Poetry Consultant of the Unites States Library of Congress in 1971 and Poet Laureate of Oregon in 1975.
Stafford is the author of over 60 books of poetry, verse, and stories. As a participant in the Church of the Brethren, William was a voice in the wilderness, seeking, as our quote above stated, "another world instead."
My first encounter with Mr. Stafford came at the 1991 Annual Conference of the Church of the Brethren, held in Portland, Ore. The theme that year was "Behold! The Wonder of God's Presence."
I drove up with a friend of mine, Isaac Docter, and camped out just north of the city. We drove into Portland daily to hear lectures on a variety of topics: peace, justice, Native American issues, and most importantly, how to follow Jesus. I still have vivid memories of my time listening to artists, storytellers, theologians, and musicians. However, in hindsight, it was at this conference that I had one of my greatest disappointments: not meeting William Stafford.
As an impressionable college student, I looked over the plethora of lectures, seeing one that read, "Poetry Reading: William Stafford." This sounded great to me, but I was unsure of exactly who Stafford was. As a member of the Church of the Brethren, I had heard of Mr. Stafford, but was not yet quite "into" him. I knew he published a book of poetry with Brethren Press called "A Scripture of Leaves," and was well loved among the Brethren folk.
But as I stood there and looked at the other conference offerings, I finally decided upon a folk group concert instead (you see, I was "into" music). Imagine that! I chose a now-forgotten folk group over William Stafford!
I went to the folk concert and listened. I sat there, unimpressed. Mainly because I knew I should be at the Stafford reading (something was nagging me that he was important). So, when the opportunity arose, I left the concert and ran over to the room where Stafford was reading. I looked in the door; the room was packed.
I decided to sit outside the room, listening to the final couple of poems. To this day, I don't remember which poems he finished his reading with. And even more disappointing, I didn't look into the room to see Mr. Stafford reading the poems.
Had I looked around the corner, I would have seen the poet that, over the next 15 years of my life, would bring me great pleasure and thought; someone I would turn to over and over again.
To make up for my mistake of not getting his book at the Brethren conference, I called Brethren Press (a couple years after) to see if they had his book, "A Scripture of Leaves." To my great surprise, they did. Even a greater surprise was that the book was one of the last signed copies. It now sits prominently on my shelf.
I now collect William Stafford books. And since that first great purchase, I have found many treasures. My favorite is a first edition signed copy of "Traveling Through the Dark" (a collectors dream, largely because it was the book he won the National Book Award in 1963).
Yet through all this collecting and book searching, I have found Stafford, through his poetry, to be a gentle reminder that there is another way of living. And as Christians, we do, indeed, look for "another world instead": the coming of God's kingdom, the establishment of His world, a dream that is really a reality yet unseen.
So until then, we abide, live, and work for building the Kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.
And somehow William Stafford knew this, for in his poem, Reading The Big Weather (found in "A Scripture of Leaves"), he summarized the tension of living for Kingdom and waiting for the Kingdom:
Reading the Big Weather--Brian Nixon is a pastor, writer, musician, and family man from Costa Mesa, Calif. This article was first published by ASSIST News Service at www.assistnews.net. "Reading the Big Weather" is reprinted with permission from Brethren Press. Order "A Scripture of Leaves" from Brethren Press for $12.95 plus shipping and handling, call 800-441-3712. To learn more about William Stafford's early poems pick up the new release by Graywolf Press, "Another World Instead."
Mornings we see our breath. Weeds
sturdy for winter are waiting down
by the tracks. Birds, high and silent,
pass almost invisible over town.
Time, always almost ready
to happen, leans over our shoulders reading
the headlines for something not there. "Republicans
Control Congress"--the year spins on unheeding.
The moon drops back toward the sun, a sickle
gone faint in the dawn: there is a weather
of things that happen too faint for headlines,
but tremendous, like willows touching the river.
This earth we are riding keeps trying to tell us
something with its continuous scripture of leaves.
Source: 4/22/2008 Earth Day Newsline
Credits
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board, cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. Wendy McFadden contributed to this report.
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board, cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. Wendy McFadden contributed to this report.
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
NEWS
- Brethren Disaster Ministries opens new Hurricane Katrina site.
- Church of the Brethren is lead sponsor of farm program in Nicaragua.
- Seminar considers what it means to be a ‘real Samaritan.’
- Submissions sought for deacon resource book.
- Brethren bits: Corrections, personnel, jobs, and much more.
Brethren Disaster Ministries opens new Hurricane Katrina site.
Brethren Disaster Ministries has opened a new Hurricane Katrina rebuilding site in East New Orleans (Arabi), La. An allocation of $25,000 from the Church of the Brethren’s Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF) helps fund the new project site, where volunteers will rebuild homes damaged or destroyed by Katrina.
The rebuilding site in Pearl River, La., will be moved to Arabi on the weekend of April 11-13. "The reason for this making this move is that there is little work left at the Pearl River site," explained Brethren Disaster Ministries coordinator Jane Yount. "Volunteers have been traveling across Lake Pontchartrain down to East Orleans daily. It will be much more convenient and better stewardship for both the project directors and the volunteers to be housed closer to where they are working."
The new project site has been dubbed "NOLA East." Volunteer groups and project directors who had been scheduled to work at Pearl River will go instead to project headquarters in Arabi, and will continue to work on cases provided by the Southeast Louisiana Recovery Network. The work will be mainly in the Orleans and St. Bernard Parishes.
Both the NOLA East project and the current rebuilding project in Chalmette, La., will use volunteer housing based in Arabi. Meals will be prepared in the Carolyn Park Presbyterian Church kitchen for both project sites, and housing arrangements may require that district volunteer groups may be split and housed with volunteers working at the other project site, some in travel trailers and some in a bunk trailer.
"We now have two housing locations and capacity for 30 volunteers!" Yount said. The site "has been blessed with a 48-foot trailer that was transformed into three sleeping rooms by hardworking Shenandoah District volunteers." The trailer worth about $5,000 was donated by IDM trucking and had previously been used to haul soft drink products. A new housing option for volunteers at both sites--the Madery house--may be completed by May.
The Brethren Disaster Ministries rebuilding site in Rushford, Minn., is now a longterm rebuilding project working with the local recovery organization, Lutheran Social Services/Lutheran Disaster Response. The project is scheduled to rebuild eight homes, and hopes to have at least one or two foundations completed by the first of May. The local recovery organization has hired a construction coordinator to help with the project. There are repair jobs to be done as well. "Project directors are needed!" said Yount.
For more information about volunteering at NOLA East, Chalmette, or Rushford, contact Brethren Disaster Ministries at 800-451-4407 or contact a district disaster coordinator.
Source: 4/9/2008 Newsline
Brethren Disaster Ministries has opened a new Hurricane Katrina rebuilding site in East New Orleans (Arabi), La. An allocation of $25,000 from the Church of the Brethren’s Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF) helps fund the new project site, where volunteers will rebuild homes damaged or destroyed by Katrina.
The rebuilding site in Pearl River, La., will be moved to Arabi on the weekend of April 11-13. "The reason for this making this move is that there is little work left at the Pearl River site," explained Brethren Disaster Ministries coordinator Jane Yount. "Volunteers have been traveling across Lake Pontchartrain down to East Orleans daily. It will be much more convenient and better stewardship for both the project directors and the volunteers to be housed closer to where they are working."
The new project site has been dubbed "NOLA East." Volunteer groups and project directors who had been scheduled to work at Pearl River will go instead to project headquarters in Arabi, and will continue to work on cases provided by the Southeast Louisiana Recovery Network. The work will be mainly in the Orleans and St. Bernard Parishes.
Both the NOLA East project and the current rebuilding project in Chalmette, La., will use volunteer housing based in Arabi. Meals will be prepared in the Carolyn Park Presbyterian Church kitchen for both project sites, and housing arrangements may require that district volunteer groups may be split and housed with volunteers working at the other project site, some in travel trailers and some in a bunk trailer.
"We now have two housing locations and capacity for 30 volunteers!" Yount said. The site "has been blessed with a 48-foot trailer that was transformed into three sleeping rooms by hardworking Shenandoah District volunteers." The trailer worth about $5,000 was donated by IDM trucking and had previously been used to haul soft drink products. A new housing option for volunteers at both sites--the Madery house--may be completed by May.
The Brethren Disaster Ministries rebuilding site in Rushford, Minn., is now a longterm rebuilding project working with the local recovery organization, Lutheran Social Services/Lutheran Disaster Response. The project is scheduled to rebuild eight homes, and hopes to have at least one or two foundations completed by the first of May. The local recovery organization has hired a construction coordinator to help with the project. There are repair jobs to be done as well. "Project directors are needed!" said Yount.
For more information about volunteering at NOLA East, Chalmette, or Rushford, contact Brethren Disaster Ministries at 800-451-4407 or contact a district disaster coordinator.
Source: 4/9/2008 Newsline
Church of the Brethren is lead sponsor of farm program in Nicaragua.
The Church of the Brethren is to be the lead sponsor of the Rio Coco farm program in Nicaragua, through the Global Food Crisis Fund and its partnership with the Foods Resource Bank and Church World Service (CWS).
The denomination has had involvement in Nicaragua off and on over the last couple of decades. This newest project will allow the Brethren to work in concert with its partners in a new area and among the poorest of the poor.
The project will establish the Rio Coco Demonstration Farms in an area of Nicaragua that borders Honduras, with the help of a Global Food Crisis Fund grant of $35,000 for the first year of the program. The funding will come from the Global Food Crisis Fund ’s growing project accounts in the Foods Resource Bank.
The eight demonstration farms will heighten the food security and health of the populace, which is largely Meskito. Funding for one demonstration farm has been arranged by the Christian Reformed World Relief Committee; the Church of the Brethren will be the lead sponsor for three other demonstration centers.
Each of the demonstration farms will enlist 10 participating groups from surrounding communities. From each group, six workers will train at the demonstration centers, then return to their home communities to teach what they have learned to others. The demonstration center programs will deal with the production of grain, vegetables, trees, livestock, and vermiculture. Eventually, stores are to be opened at each center, operated by women from the participating communities.
Partnering with the Foods Resource Bank is Accion Medica Cristiana (AMC), which already has a central pharmacy in Waspan, the main municipality, and a hundred small "box" pharmacies in outlying villages. AMC has been aligned with Foods Resource Bank in the Farmer to Farmer program in Nicaragua.
--Howard Royer is manager of the Global Food Crisis Fund.
Source: 4/9/2008 Newsline
The Church of the Brethren is to be the lead sponsor of the Rio Coco farm program in Nicaragua, through the Global Food Crisis Fund and its partnership with the Foods Resource Bank and Church World Service (CWS).
The denomination has had involvement in Nicaragua off and on over the last couple of decades. This newest project will allow the Brethren to work in concert with its partners in a new area and among the poorest of the poor.
The project will establish the Rio Coco Demonstration Farms in an area of Nicaragua that borders Honduras, with the help of a Global Food Crisis Fund grant of $35,000 for the first year of the program. The funding will come from the Global Food Crisis Fund ’s growing project accounts in the Foods Resource Bank.
The eight demonstration farms will heighten the food security and health of the populace, which is largely Meskito. Funding for one demonstration farm has been arranged by the Christian Reformed World Relief Committee; the Church of the Brethren will be the lead sponsor for three other demonstration centers.
Each of the demonstration farms will enlist 10 participating groups from surrounding communities. From each group, six workers will train at the demonstration centers, then return to their home communities to teach what they have learned to others. The demonstration center programs will deal with the production of grain, vegetables, trees, livestock, and vermiculture. Eventually, stores are to be opened at each center, operated by women from the participating communities.
Partnering with the Foods Resource Bank is Accion Medica Cristiana (AMC), which already has a central pharmacy in Waspan, the main municipality, and a hundred small "box" pharmacies in outlying villages. AMC has been aligned with Foods Resource Bank in the Farmer to Farmer program in Nicaragua.
--Howard Royer is manager of the Global Food Crisis Fund.
Source: 4/9/2008 Newsline
Seminar considers what it means to be a ‘real Samaritan.’
Framed by the scripture story of the good Samaritan, Church of the Brethren youth from across the nation explored the issue of genocide this week, at the Christian Citizenship Seminar. The youth were confronted with questions of a Christian and peace church response to the violent tragedies of Rwanda, the Holocaust, or the deliberate removal of indigenous people from their lands and their homes.
Seventy-four youth and advisors took part in this annual seminar sponsored by the General Board’s Youth and Young Adult Ministries and the Brethren Witness/Washington Office. Over three days spent in New York, followed by three days in Washington, D.C., the youth were given presentations and engaged in dialogue around the genocides that have occurred in the world’s history, and how people of faith have been involved or have responded. Terms such as "Never Again" and "Responsibility to Protect" were critiqued and examined in relation to how the United Nations or the global community has actually responded.
David Fraccarro, director of Young Adults for the World Council of Churches, USA, led the group in evaluating how their own social structures and peer group choices may implicate them in "leaving out others." George Brent, a Holocaust survivor, recounted the formational story of his life, and that of his family, as they were put on trains and arbitrarily chosen for the death chambers of Germany. He gave the group hope in his story of survival and renewal in the midst of such tragedy. Jim Lehman drew the group in with the story of struggle and challenge between the "peace loving" Brethren in middle Pennsylvania in the 18th century, and the Native Americans of that region. Through viewing the film "Hotel Rwanda," youth were reminded that genocide is not a historically distant event for their generation.
The focus of the seminar, however, was the ongoing genocide in Darfur, Sudan. Sharon Silber and Phil Anderson, both active with the organization Save Darfur, provided history, detail, and political understandings that surround the estimated 400,000 deaths in Darfur. More than two million people have been displaced from Darfur, as well. Native Sudanese youth Wilfred and Serena Lohitai participated in the seminar themselves, and brought a very real expression of the Sudanese suffering. Serena Lohitai shared about the importance of family and community to the people of Sudan. "All relatives are as parents, or sisters and brothers to one another," she said. Such an understanding makes clear the absolute devastation as members of the community are murdered, raped, or displaced.
Tim McElwee, Plowshares Professor of Peace Studies at Manchester College, engaged the students in exploring the 1996 Annual Conference statement, "Nonviolence and Humanitarian Intervention." He drew attention to the Peaceable Community section of the paper that reads in part, "The church is empowered to make visible the ways of Jesus...therefore the church shall...advocate for the things that make for peace...lay low the dividing walls of hostility...train and upon invitation deploy Christian conciliation and peacemaking teams and nonviolent monitors in zones of violence and physical abuse." Youth challenged and embraced differing sections of this document. Some found their only voice to be that of nonviolence, others found hope in limited United Nations "peacekeeping forces" that may be allowed to intervene militarily as a means of last resort.
Following training for direct lobbying on pending legislation regarding Sudan, the youth visited with their senators and representatives. Points of advocacy included providing adequate funding in the 2008 Supplemental Funding Bill that would ensure funds for a UNAMID "peacekeeping mission" in Darfur, disaster and famine response, adequate diplomatic efforts, and support of a US Special Envoy. The senators and representatives also were encouraged to support HR 1011 or SR 470 that provide for a comprehensive strategy for addressing relationships between Chad, the Central African Republic, and Darfur, Sudan. Several of the groups of youth also chose to call for US pressure on China, related to the upcoming Olympics in that country.
The seminar also included times of worship and praise, small group reflection, and free-time activities in both cities. Rich Troyer, youth minister from Middlebury (Ind.) Church of the Brethren, reflected that the seminar, "teaches young people to get out of their comfort zones. It teaches them what it means to love their neighbors. It teaches them about issues they may not know anything about and helps them to see how the call of Jesus intersects the issue and encourages them to ‘not pass by on the other side.’ It is more than social action, it is faith in action."
For more information about the Christian Citizenship Seminar contact the Youth and Young Adult Ministries or the Brethren Witness/Washington Office. Better yet, ask one of the 74 who attended.
--Phil Jones is the director of the Brethren Witness/Washington Office for the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Source: 4/9/2008 Newsline
Framed by the scripture story of the good Samaritan, Church of the Brethren youth from across the nation explored the issue of genocide this week, at the Christian Citizenship Seminar. The youth were confronted with questions of a Christian and peace church response to the violent tragedies of Rwanda, the Holocaust, or the deliberate removal of indigenous people from their lands and their homes.
Seventy-four youth and advisors took part in this annual seminar sponsored by the General Board’s Youth and Young Adult Ministries and the Brethren Witness/Washington Office. Over three days spent in New York, followed by three days in Washington, D.C., the youth were given presentations and engaged in dialogue around the genocides that have occurred in the world’s history, and how people of faith have been involved or have responded. Terms such as "Never Again" and "Responsibility to Protect" were critiqued and examined in relation to how the United Nations or the global community has actually responded.
David Fraccarro, director of Young Adults for the World Council of Churches, USA, led the group in evaluating how their own social structures and peer group choices may implicate them in "leaving out others." George Brent, a Holocaust survivor, recounted the formational story of his life, and that of his family, as they were put on trains and arbitrarily chosen for the death chambers of Germany. He gave the group hope in his story of survival and renewal in the midst of such tragedy. Jim Lehman drew the group in with the story of struggle and challenge between the "peace loving" Brethren in middle Pennsylvania in the 18th century, and the Native Americans of that region. Through viewing the film "Hotel Rwanda," youth were reminded that genocide is not a historically distant event for their generation.
The focus of the seminar, however, was the ongoing genocide in Darfur, Sudan. Sharon Silber and Phil Anderson, both active with the organization Save Darfur, provided history, detail, and political understandings that surround the estimated 400,000 deaths in Darfur. More than two million people have been displaced from Darfur, as well. Native Sudanese youth Wilfred and Serena Lohitai participated in the seminar themselves, and brought a very real expression of the Sudanese suffering. Serena Lohitai shared about the importance of family and community to the people of Sudan. "All relatives are as parents, or sisters and brothers to one another," she said. Such an understanding makes clear the absolute devastation as members of the community are murdered, raped, or displaced.
Tim McElwee, Plowshares Professor of Peace Studies at Manchester College, engaged the students in exploring the 1996 Annual Conference statement, "Nonviolence and Humanitarian Intervention." He drew attention to the Peaceable Community section of the paper that reads in part, "The church is empowered to make visible the ways of Jesus...therefore the church shall...advocate for the things that make for peace...lay low the dividing walls of hostility...train and upon invitation deploy Christian conciliation and peacemaking teams and nonviolent monitors in zones of violence and physical abuse." Youth challenged and embraced differing sections of this document. Some found their only voice to be that of nonviolence, others found hope in limited United Nations "peacekeeping forces" that may be allowed to intervene militarily as a means of last resort.
Following training for direct lobbying on pending legislation regarding Sudan, the youth visited with their senators and representatives. Points of advocacy included providing adequate funding in the 2008 Supplemental Funding Bill that would ensure funds for a UNAMID "peacekeeping mission" in Darfur, disaster and famine response, adequate diplomatic efforts, and support of a US Special Envoy. The senators and representatives also were encouraged to support HR 1011 or SR 470 that provide for a comprehensive strategy for addressing relationships between Chad, the Central African Republic, and Darfur, Sudan. Several of the groups of youth also chose to call for US pressure on China, related to the upcoming Olympics in that country.
The seminar also included times of worship and praise, small group reflection, and free-time activities in both cities. Rich Troyer, youth minister from Middlebury (Ind.) Church of the Brethren, reflected that the seminar, "teaches young people to get out of their comfort zones. It teaches them what it means to love their neighbors. It teaches them about issues they may not know anything about and helps them to see how the call of Jesus intersects the issue and encourages them to ‘not pass by on the other side.’ It is more than social action, it is faith in action."
For more information about the Christian Citizenship Seminar contact the Youth and Young Adult Ministries or the Brethren Witness/Washington Office. Better yet, ask one of the 74 who attended.
--Phil Jones is the director of the Brethren Witness/Washington Office for the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Source: 4/9/2008 Newsline
Submissions sought for deacon resource book.
The Association of Brethren Caregivers is seeking submissions of worship and meditation resources for use in a new deacon resource book. Brethren are invited to submit original prayers to be considered for inclusion in this new resource, along with suggestions of hymns and scriptures for the deacon ministry.
"The role of deacon in the church has taken on new meaning in the last decade," said the invitation. "In 1998, the ‘Deacon Manual for Caring Ministries’ was published and deacons were trained across the denomination... Now deacons are asking for more resources to help them carry out their role."
The denomination's Caring Ministries has been commissioned to develop the anthology of prayers for many situations in which deacons are called to minister, such as celebrations and special life events (anniversaries, reunions, etc.); times of crisis of body, mind, or spirit (illness, surgery, domestic violence, a death, etc.); and transitions along the journey of life (divorce, a birth, etc.). David Doudt will be project manager. The anthology is scheduled to be available at Annual Conference 2009.
Entries should be submitted by May 30. Send submissions to Caring Ministries of the Church of the Brethren, Attn: David Doudt, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120; or e-mail ddoudt_abc@brethren.org.
Source: 4/9/2008 Newsline
The Association of Brethren Caregivers is seeking submissions of worship and meditation resources for use in a new deacon resource book. Brethren are invited to submit original prayers to be considered for inclusion in this new resource, along with suggestions of hymns and scriptures for the deacon ministry.
"The role of deacon in the church has taken on new meaning in the last decade," said the invitation. "In 1998, the ‘Deacon Manual for Caring Ministries’ was published and deacons were trained across the denomination... Now deacons are asking for more resources to help them carry out their role."
The denomination's Caring Ministries has been commissioned to develop the anthology of prayers for many situations in which deacons are called to minister, such as celebrations and special life events (anniversaries, reunions, etc.); times of crisis of body, mind, or spirit (illness, surgery, domestic violence, a death, etc.); and transitions along the journey of life (divorce, a birth, etc.). David Doudt will be project manager. The anthology is scheduled to be available at Annual Conference 2009.
Entries should be submitted by May 30. Send submissions to Caring Ministries of the Church of the Brethren, Attn: David Doudt, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120; or e-mail ddoudt_abc@brethren.org.
Source: 4/9/2008 Newsline
Brethren bits: Corrections, personnel, jobs, and much more.
- Corrections: The full name and title of Ruthann Knechel Johansen as president of Bethany Theological Seminary was inadvertently left out of the announcement of webcasts from Bethany’s Inaugural Forum in the March 26 Newsline; the editor regrets this omission. Also, the start date of Eric Miller's employment with Brethren Press was incorrect; it was Sept. 6, 2005.
- The New Windsor Conference Center is thanking Lavonne Grubb and Myrna McLaughlin for serving as volunteer hosts for the month of March, and has welcomed Clarice Ott and Gloria Hall-Schimmel as hosts for April. Ed and Betty Runion are returning to serve as hosts for April, May, and June. The conference center is on the campus of the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md.
- Bethany Theological Seminary’s Institutional Advancement Department on the campus in Richmond, Ind., seeks an administrative assistant. The department seeks a person who likes working with people, likes working with a computer, and likes being around a vibrant educational environment of a spiritual character. The position serves as the primary receptionist at Bethany’s front desk, maintains donor records systems, processes gifts, and supports advancement staff in correspondence, scheduling, and publications. Critical required skills include the abilities to multitask, meet the public in person and on the telephone, maintain confidentiality, and work with computerized record-keeping and communication systems. Knowledge and appreciation of the breadth of Church of the Brethren membership is desired. The starting date is negotiable, sometime this summer. The application review will begin May 5 and continue until the position is filled. To apply or seek additional information, contact Lowell Flory, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement, Bethany Theological Seminary, 615 National Rd. W., Richmond, IN 47374; florylo@bethanyseminary.edu; 800-287-8822.
- Brethren Press seeks a customer service inventory specialist to fill a fulltime position at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill. Responsibilities include providing professional customer service functions by telephone, fax, mail, and Internet, and maintaining a thorough knowledge of products offered through Brethren Press; specializing in providing resource information to congregations and individuals; accurate and timely maintenance of inventory levels; providing marketing support services; participating in year-end inventory; and assisting with coordinating and developing standardized procedures and maintaining written documentation. Qualifications include ability to become familiar with Church of the Brethren organization and beliefs and to operate out of the vision of the General Board; ability to relate with integrity and respect within and beyond the organization; strong interpersonal skills; understanding of accounting theory and practice; good listening and telephone skills and competence in oral and written communication; proficiency in typing and data entry; ability to work well in a team, juggling several tasks simultaneously; knowledge of Christian education and resourcing of congregations. Education and experience requirements include experience in customer service, computer literacy, experience with inventory management and reporting. Christian education experience is desirable. High school diploma is required, with some college education preferred. A position description and application form are available on request. Applications will be considered until the position is filled. To apply, complete the General Board application form, submit a resume and letter of application, and request three references to send letters of recommendation to the Office of Human Resources, Church of the Brethren General Board, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120-1694; 800-323-8039 ext. 258; kkrog_gb@brethren.org.
- The Material Resources program of the Church of the Brethren General Board seeks an office assistant to fill a fulltime, hourly position at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. The assistant will work closely with the office manager to ensure timely and accurate collection of information, and the transfer of information to various reports, people, and tracking systems related to shipping matters. This is a clerical position with responsibility for correspondence, telephone inquiries, stencils, shipping instructions, loading sheets, activity reports, invoices, and billing records. This position also handles all interaction by telephone with pier contacts, meetings with transportation related salespersons, and ensures that volunteer work groups are recognized and thanked. The position requires a high degree of accuracy, organizational skills, ability to provide excellent customer service, ability to multitask, meet deadlines, and work with minimal supervision. The candidate must demonstrate competence with Word, Excel, Quickbooks, and Access. Patience and perseverance are essential to coping with the many tasks and interactions. High school graduation or equivalent is required, with some college education preferred. The application period closes April 21. Contact Joan McGrath, Office of Human Resources, Brethren Service Center, P.O. Box 188, New Windsor, MD 21776; jmcgrath_gb@brethren.org; 410-635-8780.
- The Material Resources program also seeks a baler to fill a fulltime, hourly position at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. The baler will operate a baling machine and a strapping machine, and must be attentive and compliant with safety restrictions in using the equipment. The position is responsible for preparing quilts, blankets, etc. for storage; baling; filling tables; removing cardboard crates; recording data; maintaining the work area; and keeping a cordial work climate with employees and volunteers. Candidates must be able to lift and move up to 130 pounds, be on their feet all day long, and be willing to assist in other positions as needed. High school graduation or equivalent experience is required. The application period closes April 21. Contact Joan McGrath, Office of Human Resources, Brethren Service Center, P.O. Box 188, New Windsor, MD 21776; jmcgrath_gb@brethren.org; 410-635-8780.
- The Annual Conference Office seeks a webmaster to make regular changes to its website. This is an excellent opportunity for a student or recent graduate who wants to gain more experience and build up a portfolio. Experienced webmasters are welcome as well. The time commitment is approximately two to four hours per month with responsibilities for updating the Annual Conference website at www.brethren.org/ac. Contact Lerry Fogle, Annual Conference Executive Director, at 800-688-5186.
- Additional housing has been announced for the 2008 Annual Conference in Richmond, Va. Due to high demand for housing, additional rooms at an overflow hotel--the Sheraton Richmond West--will soon be available from the Housing Bureau in Richmond. To make reservations online, go to www.brethren.org/ac/richmond/housing.html. Reservations also can be made by faxing or mailing housing reservation forms from the Annual Conference Information Packet to the Church of the Brethren Housing Bureau, c/o Richmond Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Bureau, 401 N. 3rd St., Richmond, VA 23219. Register for the Conference by going to www.brethren.org/ac/richmond/registration.html.
- Michael Hostetter will represent the Church of the Brethren at an ecumenical prayer service with Pope Benedict XVI during the Pope’s first official visit to the United States. The Pope is to be in the country from April 15-20. Hostetter chairs the Church of the Brethren’s Committee on Interchurch Relations, and pastors Salem Church of the Brethren in Englewood, Ohio. He will participate in the prayer service and reception with the Pope and leaders from the National Council of Churches (NCC) and other Christian denominations on the evening of April 18 at St. Joseph’s Church in New York. This will be Pope Benedict's first apostolic visit to the US since he was elected the 265th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church in 2005.
- Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) is announcing an Older Adult Orientation on April 21-May 2 at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. This will be the 279th orientation unit for BVS and will include six individuals and couples. The volunteers will spend two weeks exploring project possibilities and topics of community building, faith sharing, diversity training, and more. They also will work at SERRV International and at the Washington (D.C.) Soup Kitchen. Guest staff and speakers will include Larry and Alice Petry, Jim Lehman, Bev and Joel Eikenberry, Phil Jones, and Grace LeFever. For more information contact the BVS office at 800-323-8039.
- The Brethren Witness/Washington Office was one of 16 national religious organizations that filed formal comments opposing a plan by the federal government to update the US nuclear arsenal. The proposal would cost $150 billion and is called the Nuclear Weapons Complex Transformation project. It would streamline the nation's current atomic arsenal of some 10,000 warheads and build new nuclear weapons at various sites. "Today we have a historic opportunity to begin the journey out from under the shadow of nuclear weapons," stated the comments submitted to the Department of Energy by a coalition of Catholic, Jewish, Muslim, and Protestant groups. "We hope and pray that all Americans will take advantage of this moment and join us as we work toward the total elimination of these weapons of mass destruction."
- The Church of the Brethren in the Dominican Republic held its annual assembly Feb. 28-March 2. The event drew 86 delegates among some 200 people in attendance at a church camp in Bani. Twenty churches were represented. Worship was held on the theme "Total Integrity," with preaching by moderator Jose Juan Mendez, pastor of Fondo Negro Church; Tim Harvey, chair of the Church of the Brethren General Board; and Miguel Nunez, a well-known Baptist pastor from Santo Domingo. Much of the business and all sermons were translated from Spanish to Creole, reflecting the diversity of both Dominican and Haitian-immigrant members. Business items included reports from pastors and national leaders as well as Irvin and Nancy Heishman, General Board mission coordinators for the DR, and Beth Gunzel, General Board staff for a church microcredit project. The present Dominican Board leadership, called to serve in the recent Sept. 2007 Assembly, was re-affirmed for another year. Pastor Felix Arias Mateo from the Maranatha congregation was chosen as moderator-elect. "We sensed a positive spirit and a desire among the Dominican Brethren that the Spirit would bring wisdom and understanding out of difficulties of the past year, when the Dominican church has been struggling with a crisis related to leadership," reported the Heishmans.
- The Illinois and Wisconsin District Office is moving from Lombard, Ill., to Canton, Ill. The new address for the office is 269 E. Chestnut St., Canton, IL 61520; 309-649-6008. The district also has hired a new administrative assistant, Emily Cleer, who begins the week of April 14.
- A member of the Church of the Brethren was one of two top presenters in the annual Student Research Symposium at Manchester College in N. Manchester, Ind., on April 4, according to a release from the college. Sarah Hall of First Church of the Brethren in Roaring Spring, Pa., presented research exploring the possibility of Germany prosecuting a former US Secretary of Defense for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity during the war in Iraq. Georgi Chunev of Bulgaria, who spent a summer scrutinizing infrared data delivered by NASA's $733 million orbiting Spitzer Space Telescope, also was a top presenter. The two each received $150 and the Jo Young Switzer Award for Excellence, named after Manchester’s president. For more go to www.manchester.edu.
- For Earth Day this year--scheduled for April 22--the National Council of Churches (NCC) has released a new study and action resource recognizing the interconnectedness of poverty and climate change. "By focusing on the interconnectedness between climate and poverty we hope to empower congregations to take action to address climate," said Cassandra Carmichael, director of the NCC Eco-Justice Programs. For a copy of the new resource, visit www.nccecojustice.org or contact the Eco-Justice Program office at info@nccecojustice.org or 202-481-6943.
- The World Council of Churches (WCC) Central Committee celebrated the organization’s 60th anniversary at meetings Feb. 13-20 in Geneva, Switzerland. Among the many business items, the committee chose Kingston, Jamaica, as the venue for the 2011 International Ecumenical Peace Convocation, which will culminate the WCC's Decade to Overcome Violence 2001-2010. The gathering will be held on the theme, "Glory to God and Peace on Earth." For full reports from the meetings, go to www.oikoumene.org. Messenger editor Walt Wiltschek, who is staff of the Church of the Brethren General Board, served on the ecumenical news team for the meetings.
- Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT) has requested prayer for a team returning to northern Iraq after a short break. "The situation there is tense with continuing attacks by Turkey and the upcoming referendum on the status of the contested city of Kirkuk," said the prayer request.
Thompson to be interim executive of Global Mission Partnerships.
R. Jan Thompson has been appointed interim executive director of Global Mission Partnerships for the Church of the Brethren General Board, as of April 1. He is an ordained minister, a former General Board member, and a former mission worker for the church. Thompson will work out of the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill.
As mission staff in Sudan, he and his wife, Roma Jo Thompson, worked on a Theological Education by Extension (TEE) program and with the Sudan Council of Churches. He was called to head the Church of the Brethren's Disaster Response Program for a term of service beginning in 1978. He also has filled several volunteer positions in the church, most recently as moderator of Pacific Southwest District in 2005, and was part of a Faith Expedition to Sudan in 2002.
Source: 4/9/2008 Newsline
R. Jan Thompson has been appointed interim executive director of Global Mission Partnerships for the Church of the Brethren General Board, as of April 1. He is an ordained minister, a former General Board member, and a former mission worker for the church. Thompson will work out of the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill.
As mission staff in Sudan, he and his wife, Roma Jo Thompson, worked on a Theological Education by Extension (TEE) program and with the Sudan Council of Churches. He was called to head the Church of the Brethren's Disaster Response Program for a term of service beginning in 1978. He also has filled several volunteer positions in the church, most recently as moderator of Pacific Southwest District in 2005, and was part of a Faith Expedition to Sudan in 2002.
Source: 4/9/2008 Newsline
Bethany announces teaching, administrative appointments.
Bethany Theological Seminary has announced two teaching appointments for the 2008-09 academic year, and an administrative appointment.Bethany Seminary has called Joshua Brockway, a graduate of Manchester College (2001), Bethany Theological Seminary (M.A. 2004), and Candler School of Theology (M.Div. 2007) to a one-year half-time position in Brethren Studies during the 2008-09 school year. He has served the Church of the Brethren as a resource person for the recent Ministerial Leadership Consultation in May 2007. He will teach on the seminary’s campus in Richmond, Ind., and online courses. Brockway currently is a doctoral student in church history at Catholic University of America.
Thomas N. Finger has been called as Scholar-in-Residence for the 2008-09 school year. The position is offered to a person who has made significant contributions to academic study and to the church through scholarship and teaching. Finger earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy of Religion and Systematic Theology from Claremont Graduate School. In addition to numerous articles, his recent book "A Contemporary Anabaptist Theology" published by InterVarsity Press has received critical attention and acclaim. During his career he has taught at Eastern Mennonite University and Seminary, Northern Baptist Theological Seminary, Garrett-Evangelical Seminary, and Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary. He currently is teaching at Meserete Kritos College in Ethiopia. At Bethany, he will teach four courses in the area of theological studies, and will reside in Richmond.
Scott Holland, Bethany’s associate professor of Theology and Culture and director of Peace Studies and Cross-Cultural Studies, has been named acting director of the Master of Arts program for the 2008-09 year. Holland will be the instructor for the M.A. Research Seminar, the M.A. Thesis Seminar, and thesis completion courses. He will continue as director of Peace Studies and Cross Cultural Studies, and also will direct the Peace Studies Forum and teach several courses as well as lead a travel seminar to Nigeria in partnership with the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Source: 4/9/2008 Newsline
Bethany Theological Seminary has announced two teaching appointments for the 2008-09 academic year, and an administrative appointment.Bethany Seminary has called Joshua Brockway, a graduate of Manchester College (2001), Bethany Theological Seminary (M.A. 2004), and Candler School of Theology (M.Div. 2007) to a one-year half-time position in Brethren Studies during the 2008-09 school year. He has served the Church of the Brethren as a resource person for the recent Ministerial Leadership Consultation in May 2007. He will teach on the seminary’s campus in Richmond, Ind., and online courses. Brockway currently is a doctoral student in church history at Catholic University of America.
Thomas N. Finger has been called as Scholar-in-Residence for the 2008-09 school year. The position is offered to a person who has made significant contributions to academic study and to the church through scholarship and teaching. Finger earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy of Religion and Systematic Theology from Claremont Graduate School. In addition to numerous articles, his recent book "A Contemporary Anabaptist Theology" published by InterVarsity Press has received critical attention and acclaim. During his career he has taught at Eastern Mennonite University and Seminary, Northern Baptist Theological Seminary, Garrett-Evangelical Seminary, and Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary. He currently is teaching at Meserete Kritos College in Ethiopia. At Bethany, he will teach four courses in the area of theological studies, and will reside in Richmond.
Scott Holland, Bethany’s associate professor of Theology and Culture and director of Peace Studies and Cross-Cultural Studies, has been named acting director of the Master of Arts program for the 2008-09 year. Holland will be the instructor for the M.A. Research Seminar, the M.A. Thesis Seminar, and thesis completion courses. He will continue as director of Peace Studies and Cross Cultural Studies, and also will direct the Peace Studies Forum and teach several courses as well as lead a travel seminar to Nigeria in partnership with the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Source: 4/9/2008 Newsline
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