- Church of the Brethren responds to disasters with grants totaling $117,000.
- Children, elderly dying from dysentery in Myanmar, says CWS.
- InterAgency Forum discusses work of denominational agencies.
- Brethren Volunteer Service older adult unit completes orientation.
- Brethren bits: Correction, personnel, jobs, Annual Conference, more.
Friday, May 23, 2008
NEWS
Church of the Brethren responds to disasters with grants totaling $117,000.
The Church of the Brethren has responded to recent disasters around the world, and to the world hunger crisis, with grants totaling $117,000. The grants focus on response to the China earthquake and the cyclone in Myanmar. The grants were given from the denomination’s Emergency Disaster Fund and Global Food Crisis Fund.
In other disaster news, a Church of the Brethren congregation in Windsor, Colo., has escaped all but minor damage from a devastating tornado that hit the town yesterday, May 22.
The two funds--Emergency Disaster Fund and Global Food Crisis Fund--each provided a grant of $30,000 to support Church World Service (CWS) and its partner agency Amity Foundation following the massive earthquake in China. The initial response by CWS and Amity Foundation includes immediate relief supplies of food, quilts, and shelter materials. A longterm response will include the rebuilding of homes, schools, hospitals, and safe water supplies.
The Global Food Crisis Fund gave a grant of $30,000 to support CWS hunger development work in Myanmar following the cyclone. The money will help purchase rice seed that is urgently needed for this planting season. Another allocation of $15,000 from the Global Food Crisis Fund supports Heifer International designated hunger development work in Myanmar, assisting 1,700 families toward achieving sustainable food sources and income over the next three years.
A grant of $7,000 from the Emergency Disaster Fund responds to spring storms in the United States, given to a CWS appeal following a severe outbreak of tornados and flooding. The money will help provide material aid, staff deployment, training, and financial support for longterm recovery groups in parts of Georgia, Maine, Missouri, and Virginia.
An allocation of $5,000 from the Global Food Crisis Fund assists with distribution of 250,000 packets of seeds in Liberia. The logistics for the project are handled by Church Aid Inc., Liberia, a Global Food Crisis Fund partner.
In other news, members of Northern Colorado Church of the Brethren in Windsor escaped harm and serious damage to their homes, and the church building received only minor damage in yesterday’s tornado. The church building is on the northwest side of town, and the area decimated by the storm was on the southeast side of Windsor. "We were out of the path," said pastor John Carlson. "We do need to be in prayer for the people who have lost so much," he added. News reports this morning said that 100 or more homes were severely damaged or completely destroyed in Windsor, a town of some 19,000 people. One person was killed.
Source: 5/23/2008 Newsline
The Church of the Brethren has responded to recent disasters around the world, and to the world hunger crisis, with grants totaling $117,000. The grants focus on response to the China earthquake and the cyclone in Myanmar. The grants were given from the denomination’s Emergency Disaster Fund and Global Food Crisis Fund.
In other disaster news, a Church of the Brethren congregation in Windsor, Colo., has escaped all but minor damage from a devastating tornado that hit the town yesterday, May 22.
The two funds--Emergency Disaster Fund and Global Food Crisis Fund--each provided a grant of $30,000 to support Church World Service (CWS) and its partner agency Amity Foundation following the massive earthquake in China. The initial response by CWS and Amity Foundation includes immediate relief supplies of food, quilts, and shelter materials. A longterm response will include the rebuilding of homes, schools, hospitals, and safe water supplies.
The Global Food Crisis Fund gave a grant of $30,000 to support CWS hunger development work in Myanmar following the cyclone. The money will help purchase rice seed that is urgently needed for this planting season. Another allocation of $15,000 from the Global Food Crisis Fund supports Heifer International designated hunger development work in Myanmar, assisting 1,700 families toward achieving sustainable food sources and income over the next three years.
A grant of $7,000 from the Emergency Disaster Fund responds to spring storms in the United States, given to a CWS appeal following a severe outbreak of tornados and flooding. The money will help provide material aid, staff deployment, training, and financial support for longterm recovery groups in parts of Georgia, Maine, Missouri, and Virginia.
An allocation of $5,000 from the Global Food Crisis Fund assists with distribution of 250,000 packets of seeds in Liberia. The logistics for the project are handled by Church Aid Inc., Liberia, a Global Food Crisis Fund partner.
In other news, members of Northern Colorado Church of the Brethren in Windsor escaped harm and serious damage to their homes, and the church building received only minor damage in yesterday’s tornado. The church building is on the northwest side of town, and the area decimated by the storm was on the southeast side of Windsor. "We were out of the path," said pastor John Carlson. "We do need to be in prayer for the people who have lost so much," he added. News reports this morning said that 100 or more homes were severely damaged or completely destroyed in Windsor, a town of some 19,000 people. One person was killed.
Source: 5/23/2008 Newsline
Children, elderly dying from dysentery in Myanmar, says CWS.
In cyclone-stricken areas of Myanmar (Burma), the second wave of disaster is beginning to wash over survivors with the fewest resources to cope. The elderly and children are beginning to die of dysentery because of a lack of clean drinking water, according to reports from staff of Church World Service (CWS) and local organizations working in the region.
From their Asia Pacific Region offices in Bangkok, CWS staff said May 21 that aid workers in a remote village in the country reported seeing a four-year-old child and a 70-year-old man die due to severe diarrhea. "They were wasting away and they died," said a spokesman for the local organization, which cannot be named for security reasons. "There will be another wave of deaths from cholera from drinking dirty water. People are telling us it is already starting to strike," he said.
CWS and other aid agencies who are members of the Action By Churches Together (ACT) alliance are supporting and coordinating with local organizations who are delivering desperately needed clean water, water containers, and water purification supplies, along with emergency shelter and food to survivors. One of the local organizations in Myanmar is providing clean water for 25,000 people a day. Now working in hundreds of the hardest-hit villages in the Irrawaddy Delta, the group is focusing on areas where no aid has arrived since cyclone Nargis hit May 2-3.
CWS says the local aid teams are delivering lightweight, 975-liter water baskets that are made of plastic and easy to make and transport. Each "basket," when filled with purified water or rainwater, can provide drinking water for 450 people a day.
"We often arrive in a village and we are the first ones there. We see people who are very ill and who have injuries from the cyclone," the aid worker said. "People are drinking contaminated water from ponds or rivers."
CWS Emergency Response Program director Donna Derr said local organizations have been delivering relief supplies so far, even in the face of challenges, "with materials either purchased within Myanmar or that had been pre-positioned in the country prior to the disaster." To deliver those supplies, one local partner’s teams walked five miles through the mud to reach one village. They estimate that in a week they do three days of work, and the rest traveling and dealing with logistics. When traveling by boat, they wear life jackets because many of them do not know how to swim.
"Only if you have worked on the moon, will you know what it is like to work in Burma," one of the aid team members said. "It is a totally different context here."
"People in the delta area were vulnerable before the cyclone," said Derr. "Now they are over the edge of forbearance."
Most Burmese on the Irrawaddy, considered the agricultural rice bowl of the country, are landless laborers who live in fragile shacks in the fields. "They are the ones who were worst hit by the storm," said Derr.
CWS is warning against an impending and longterm food security crisis in the affected areas of Myanmar. "If communities don't get rice seeds in the ground within the next month, there may not be rice crops for several years to come," said Derr, "It's critical that we ensure that this major disaster doesn't turn into an ongoing catastrophe."
"But by all counts, the relief phase is not over," she added. "We’ve just gotten another report from one of the worst-hit villages that people are still not able to bury the dead because the ground is still so waterlogged."
Does that mean that CWS and other humanitarian agencies are still urging contributions from donors? "Absolutely," said Derr.
--This report is from a press release by Church World Service and Action by Churches Together alliance member Christian Aid, dated May 22. Donna Derr is a former staff member of the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Source: 5/23/2008 Newsline
In cyclone-stricken areas of Myanmar (Burma), the second wave of disaster is beginning to wash over survivors with the fewest resources to cope. The elderly and children are beginning to die of dysentery because of a lack of clean drinking water, according to reports from staff of Church World Service (CWS) and local organizations working in the region.
From their Asia Pacific Region offices in Bangkok, CWS staff said May 21 that aid workers in a remote village in the country reported seeing a four-year-old child and a 70-year-old man die due to severe diarrhea. "They were wasting away and they died," said a spokesman for the local organization, which cannot be named for security reasons. "There will be another wave of deaths from cholera from drinking dirty water. People are telling us it is already starting to strike," he said.
CWS and other aid agencies who are members of the Action By Churches Together (ACT) alliance are supporting and coordinating with local organizations who are delivering desperately needed clean water, water containers, and water purification supplies, along with emergency shelter and food to survivors. One of the local organizations in Myanmar is providing clean water for 25,000 people a day. Now working in hundreds of the hardest-hit villages in the Irrawaddy Delta, the group is focusing on areas where no aid has arrived since cyclone Nargis hit May 2-3.
CWS says the local aid teams are delivering lightweight, 975-liter water baskets that are made of plastic and easy to make and transport. Each "basket," when filled with purified water or rainwater, can provide drinking water for 450 people a day.
"We often arrive in a village and we are the first ones there. We see people who are very ill and who have injuries from the cyclone," the aid worker said. "People are drinking contaminated water from ponds or rivers."
CWS Emergency Response Program director Donna Derr said local organizations have been delivering relief supplies so far, even in the face of challenges, "with materials either purchased within Myanmar or that had been pre-positioned in the country prior to the disaster." To deliver those supplies, one local partner’s teams walked five miles through the mud to reach one village. They estimate that in a week they do three days of work, and the rest traveling and dealing with logistics. When traveling by boat, they wear life jackets because many of them do not know how to swim.
"Only if you have worked on the moon, will you know what it is like to work in Burma," one of the aid team members said. "It is a totally different context here."
"People in the delta area were vulnerable before the cyclone," said Derr. "Now they are over the edge of forbearance."
Most Burmese on the Irrawaddy, considered the agricultural rice bowl of the country, are landless laborers who live in fragile shacks in the fields. "They are the ones who were worst hit by the storm," said Derr.
CWS is warning against an impending and longterm food security crisis in the affected areas of Myanmar. "If communities don't get rice seeds in the ground within the next month, there may not be rice crops for several years to come," said Derr, "It's critical that we ensure that this major disaster doesn't turn into an ongoing catastrophe."
"But by all counts, the relief phase is not over," she added. "We’ve just gotten another report from one of the worst-hit villages that people are still not able to bury the dead because the ground is still so waterlogged."
Does that mean that CWS and other humanitarian agencies are still urging contributions from donors? "Absolutely," said Derr.
--This report is from a press release by Church World Service and Action by Churches Together alliance member Christian Aid, dated May 22. Donna Derr is a former staff member of the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Source: 5/23/2008 Newsline
InterAgency Forum discusses work of denominational agencies.
"How to relate and work together to move the denomination forward toward fulfilling its identity and mission," might well summarize the spirit and discussion during the meeting of the Church of the Brethren InterAgency Forum, on April 23-24 in Elgin, Ill.
The InterAgency Forum consists of the Annual Conference executive and officers, a representative from the Council of District Executives, and the executives and board chairs of the five Annual Conference agencies. The immediate past Annual Conference moderator is the chair.
Present for the annual meeting were chair Belita Mitchell, moderator of the 2007 Annual Conference; Conference officers moderator Jim Beckwith, moderator-elect David Shumate, secretary Fred Swartz; Lerry Fogle, executive director of Annual Conference; Allen Kahler, representing the district executives; Stan Noff singer, general secretary of theGeneral Board; Tim Harvey, chair of the General Board; Kathy Reid, executive director of the Association of Brethren Caregivers; Eddie Edmonds, ABC board chair; Ruthann Knechel Johansen, president of Bethany Theological Seminary; Ted Flory, Bethany board chair; Wil Nolen, president of Brethren Benefit Trust; Harry Rhodes, BBT board chair; Bob Gross, executive director of On Earth Peace; and Verdena Lee, board chair of On Earth Peace.
The InterAgency Forum was begun 10 years ago to provide a setting in which the denominational agencies could work at common goals, avoid duplication of services, and facilitate cooperation in presenting denominational mission. The validity of that purpose was authenticated in the conversation at this year’s meeting. Topics included the stewardship of time at Annual Conference, the work of several agencies to create strategic plans founded on the needs of congregations and that have relevance to the issues of the time, the opportunity for working at a more unified program through the proposed Church of the Brethren Mission and Ministry Board, and how districts and agencies can establish closer lines of communication and relationship to enhance the interpretation of denominational program.
Other items on the agenda were an evaluation of the 2007 Annual Conference and a preview of this year’s Conference and 300th Anniversary. Each agency gave a brief report of significant achievements and current activities. The forum noted that the proposed denominational Leadership Team will assume the functions of the Annual Conference Council, under whose auspices the forum was assigned by the 2001 Annual Conference. The members of the forum will send to the Leadership Team affirmations of the value of the forum and recommend that it continue to function.
--Fred Swartz is the secretary of the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference.
Source: 5/23/2008 Newsline
"How to relate and work together to move the denomination forward toward fulfilling its identity and mission," might well summarize the spirit and discussion during the meeting of the Church of the Brethren InterAgency Forum, on April 23-24 in Elgin, Ill.
The InterAgency Forum consists of the Annual Conference executive and officers, a representative from the Council of District Executives, and the executives and board chairs of the five Annual Conference agencies. The immediate past Annual Conference moderator is the chair.
Present for the annual meeting were chair Belita Mitchell, moderator of the 2007 Annual Conference; Conference officers moderator Jim Beckwith, moderator-elect David Shumate, secretary Fred Swartz; Lerry Fogle, executive director of Annual Conference; Allen Kahler, representing the district executives; Stan Noff singer, general secretary of theGeneral Board; Tim Harvey, chair of the General Board; Kathy Reid, executive director of the Association of Brethren Caregivers; Eddie Edmonds, ABC board chair; Ruthann Knechel Johansen, president of Bethany Theological Seminary; Ted Flory, Bethany board chair; Wil Nolen, president of Brethren Benefit Trust; Harry Rhodes, BBT board chair; Bob Gross, executive director of On Earth Peace; and Verdena Lee, board chair of On Earth Peace.
The InterAgency Forum was begun 10 years ago to provide a setting in which the denominational agencies could work at common goals, avoid duplication of services, and facilitate cooperation in presenting denominational mission. The validity of that purpose was authenticated in the conversation at this year’s meeting. Topics included the stewardship of time at Annual Conference, the work of several agencies to create strategic plans founded on the needs of congregations and that have relevance to the issues of the time, the opportunity for working at a more unified program through the proposed Church of the Brethren Mission and Ministry Board, and how districts and agencies can establish closer lines of communication and relationship to enhance the interpretation of denominational program.
Other items on the agenda were an evaluation of the 2007 Annual Conference and a preview of this year’s Conference and 300th Anniversary. Each agency gave a brief report of significant achievements and current activities. The forum noted that the proposed denominational Leadership Team will assume the functions of the Annual Conference Council, under whose auspices the forum was assigned by the 2001 Annual Conference. The members of the forum will send to the Leadership Team affirmations of the value of the forum and recommend that it continue to function.
--Fred Swartz is the secretary of the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference.
Source: 5/23/2008 Newsline
Brethren Volunteer Service older adult unit completes orientation.
Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) Unit 279, an older adult unit, has completed orientation. The unit orientation was held at the New Windsor (Md.) Conference Center on the campus of the Brethren Service Center, from April 21-May 2.
The volunteers, their home congregations or hometowns, and placements are: Larry and Elaine Balliet of South Thomaston, Maine, project placement pending; Michael Colvin of La Verne (Calif.) Church of the Brethren, to serve with On Earth Peace in New Windsor, Md.; Peter and Kay Hagert of Mooresville (W.Va.) Church of the Brethren, to serve at HRDC in Havre, Mon.; and Roz Jeremiah, of Middlesex, England, to Innisfree in Crozet, Va.
While in Maryland, the volunteers had several opportunities to serve, including at the Brethren Nutrition Program in Washington, D.C., and visited the Young Center in Elizabethtown, Pa., and the Ephrata Cloisters.
For more information contact the BVS office at 800-323-8039 or visit www.brethrenvolunteerservice.org.
Source: 5/23/2008 Newsline
Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) Unit 279, an older adult unit, has completed orientation. The unit orientation was held at the New Windsor (Md.) Conference Center on the campus of the Brethren Service Center, from April 21-May 2.
The volunteers, their home congregations or hometowns, and placements are: Larry and Elaine Balliet of South Thomaston, Maine, project placement pending; Michael Colvin of La Verne (Calif.) Church of the Brethren, to serve with On Earth Peace in New Windsor, Md.; Peter and Kay Hagert of Mooresville (W.Va.) Church of the Brethren, to serve at HRDC in Havre, Mon.; and Roz Jeremiah, of Middlesex, England, to Innisfree in Crozet, Va.While in Maryland, the volunteers had several opportunities to serve, including at the Brethren Nutrition Program in Washington, D.C., and visited the Young Center in Elizabethtown, Pa., and the Ephrata Cloisters.
For more information contact the BVS office at 800-323-8039 or visit www.brethrenvolunteerservice.org.
Source: 5/23/2008 Newsline
Brethren bits: Correction, personnel, jobs, Annual Conference, more.
- In a correction to the Newsline Extra of May 7, "Mohler Lecture considers ‘War, God, and Inevitability’" was written by Robert Dell, a retired Church of the Brethren minister living in McPherson, Kan. In another correction, the length of service of Darryl Deardorff as treasurer for the Church of the Brethren General Board was mistated, he worked for the General Board from 1987 to his hiring at Brethren Benefit Trust in 1997. In a correction to the Newsline of May 7, the University of La Verne (Calif.) is located east, not west, of Los Angeles.
- Linda Newman has accepted the position of assistant to the director of Buildings and Grounds for the Church of the Brethren General Board in Elgin, Ill. She brings more than 26 years of experience managing multiple office facilities through moves, remodeling, repairs, and construction phases. She holds an office administration certificate from Elgin Community College, and will begin work on June 2.
- Dustin Winstead-Marks began April 14 as a baler for the Material Resources program of the Church of the Brethren General Board at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. He is working through a youth employment program from the Business and Employment Resource Council.
- Shannon McNeil will begin a one-year internship at the Brethren Historical Library and Archives on June 2. In May, McNeil graduated from Bridgewater (Va.) College with a degree in international studies. Her home is in Dunlap, Ill. As the official repository of the Church of the Brethren, the archives collects, preserves, and organizes Brethren materials and is located at the church’s General Offices in Elgin, Ill.
- Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT) has announced the opening of the position of director of Credit Union Operations. Applicants should have a minimum of five years of experience in credit union or banking management and/or corporate financial management, and have a CPA Certificate or strong financial background. The portfolio will include supervision, operational management, loans, deposits, asset management, operation management, compliance reporting, new products development, marketing, financial and Board reporting. This position will be located in Elgin, Ill. By June 27, applicants should submit a letter of interest, resume, and three references to Donna March via e-mail at dmarch_bbt@brethren.org or by fax or mail to Donna March, Director of Office Operations, Church of the Brethren Benefit Trust, 1505 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120; fax 847-742-6336.
- Bethany Theological Seminary has announced an opening for the fulltime position of director of admissions, with a starting date in September. This is an opportunity for a creative professional to serve the church, helping to identify and encourage leaders to develop their gifts through graduate theological education. The director of admissions will be responsible for a wide range of student recruitment activities, including taking the lead to implement a recruitment plan, working as a team member in recruitment activities, representing the seminary at off-campus events, developing relationships with prospective students, and conducting interviews. The work will include significant travel to visit students, attend camps and conferences, etc. Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree; a seminary degree is preferred. Familiarity with and an understanding of the Church of the Brethren is required. Two to five years of professional experience in a field working with people is valuable. Applicants should demonstrate strong oral and written communication skills, listening skills, organizational skills, ability to help individuals discern vocational calling, and eagerness to work as part of a team. Experience in communications technology and multicultural recruitment is a plus. Submit a letter of application and resume to the Executive Director of Student and Business Services, Bethany Theological Seminary, 615 National Rd. W., Richmond, IN 47374. Application review will begin on June 6. Applications will continue to be accepted until the position is filled. Bethany Theological Seminary is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from those who can further enhance the breadth and diversity of educational community.
- McPherson (Kan.) College seeks a director of marketing and communications. McPherson College is seeking an outgoing, organized, energetic, self-motivated person who understands the benefits of a small-college education. This person will oversee the timely production of all college marketing materials, manage the college's marketing plans and strategies in recruiting and development, oversee website development, provide leadership for college promotions, cultivate and maintain relationships with media representatives, manage the college's corporate identity/image program, coordinate news releases, and coordinate materials production when necessary. Send a cover letter, resume, and references to Lisa Easter, Human Resources, P.O. Box 1402, 1600 E. Euclid, McPherson, KS 67460; or e-mail easterl@mcpherson.edu. No phone calls please. Applications are accepted until the position is filled. EOE. McPherson College is committed to diversity, and encourages applications from women and people from traditionally underrepresented groups.
- The Material Resources program of the Church of the Brethren General Board, located at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., seeks a person to fill an hourly, fulltime position reporting to the director of Material Resources and working closely with the office manager. Responsibilities are to ensure the timely and accurate collection of information, and the transfer of information to various reports, people, and tracking systems related to all shipping matters. This is a clerical position with responsibility for typing correspondence, handling telephone inquiries, preparing 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 appropriately recognized and thanked. The position requires a high degree of accuracy, well developed organizational skills, ability to provide excellent customer service, ability to multitask, meet deadlines, and work with minimal supervision. The person must demonstrate competent user status with Word, Excel, Quickbooks, and Access. Patience and perseverance are essential to coping with many tasks and interactions. High school graduation or equivalent is required, some college preferred. The application period closes June 4. Candidates should contact Joan McGrath, Office of Human Resources, via e-mail at jmcgrath_gb@brethren.org, via telephone at 410-635-8780, or via mail at Office of Human Resources, Brethren Service Center, 500 Main St., Box 188, New Windsor, MD 21776.
- Online registration will be available through May 30 for the 2008 Annual Conference in Richmond, Va., which will be held from July 12-16. After May 30, those who want to attend the Conference will need to register onsite in Richmond for an increased fee. Go to the Annual Conference website at www.brethren.org/ac to register.
- The airport bus shuttle has been canceled for Annual Conference in Richmond. Due to insufficient demand for bus shuttle service between the airport and hotels in Richmond, airport shuttle service has been canceled, reported the Annual Conference Office. The bus company will contact those who signed up for the service and suggest alternate transportation. This cancellation only applies to airport service and all hotel bus shuttles will be fully operational and complimentary.
- The summer issue of "A Guide for Biblical Studies," the adult Bible study curriculum from Brethren Press, focuses on the theme, "Images of Christ." The book offers weekly Bible studies for small groups or individual study, for the months of June, July, and August. Donald Fitzkee is the author of the lessons. He serves as a free minister at Chiques Church of the Brethren near Manheim, Pa., and as development and interpretation coordinator for COBYS Family Services. Frank Ramirez, pastor of Everett (Pa.) Church of the Brethren, writes the "Out of Context" feature. This summer’s issue reviews a variety of biblical images of Christ, including Christ as God's Son, intercessor, redeemer, leader, teacher, healer, servant, Messiah, and "the Eternal Christ," as well as "Images of Christ in Us," such as disciples, doers of the Word, and prayerful community, among others. Order from Brethren Press for $2.90 per copy, or $5.15 per copy for large print, plus shipping and handling. Call 800-441-3712 or go to www.brethrenpress.com.
- Neighborhood Church of the Brethren in Montgomery, Ill., will celebrate its 50 years in Boulder Hill with a Homecoming Celebration on Oct. 11-12. Go to the website at www.ourneighborhoodchurch.com for more information.
- Heidelberg Church of the Brethren has been selected for the 2008 Best of Myerstown (Pa.) Award in the "Mennonite Brethren Churches" category by the US Local Business Association (USLBA). In recognition of the achievement, a 2008 Best of Myerstown Award plaque has been designed for display at the church. The USLBA "Best of Local Business" award recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country, according to an announcement.
- Sea-Going Cowboy Sunday will be held at Prince of Peace Church of the Brethren in Littleton, Colo., on June 29. The event will honor the "sea-going cowboys" who served after World War II to deliver relief animals. Paul Rohrer, Prince of Peace member, and his father, Glenn Rohrer, who was a seagoing cowboy, will lead the 10 a.m. worship service. A western-style lunch will follow, with an informal time for all seagoing cowboys in attendance to share their experiences. "All seagoing cowboys are warmly invited to join us in this 300th Anniversary celebration of a memorable part of our Brethren History," said an invitation from the church. Contact princeofpeacecob@gmail.com or 303-797-1536.
- Chaplain Dana Statler of Brethren Village, a Church of the Brethren retirement community in Lancaster, Pa., will be leading a tour to Germany as a part of the 300th Anniversary celebration of the Church of the Brethren. The tour will take place the first two weeks of August. For more information, contact Statler at 717-569-2657.
- The Children’s Aid Society supported by Brethren in Pennsylvania, is holding its Annual Dinner on May 29 at Nicarry Meeting House at the Brethren Home in New Oxford, Pa. Contact 717-624-4461 or mind@cassd.org.
- Camp Koinonia is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a Fundraising Breakfast on May 31, for $40 per person. Breakfast begins at 9:30 a.m. in the newly renovated lodge, followed by a silent auction and site tour. At 11:30 a.m. the camp will dedicate the lodge.
- Pinecrest Community, a Church of the Brethren retirement community in Mount Morris, Ill., is holding its Annual Good Samaritan Banquet on June 8. This year with the addition of a new Community Center, the banquet is becoming more creative, according to a release. The event will be an early afternoon dinner theater, where lunch will be served at 12:30 p.m. and the show "All I Really Needed to Know I Learned in Kindergarten" will be performed by Mount Morris Performing Arts Guild beginning at 2 p.m. (Contact Ferol Labash at 815-734-4103 ext. 273 for reservations or more information). The 16,000 square foot Pinecrest Grove Community Center has been completed and the public is invited to view it at a series of events June 5-13. The facility includes a Wellness Center, coffee shop/deli, reading room, computer/education/business room, and a 180-seat auditorium. The Grand Opening starts June 5-7 with staging of "All I Really Need to Know...," June 12 is "Church of the Brethren Day" with 300th Anniversary presentations, and a bronze sculpture titled "The Spirit of Compassion" sculpted by artist Jeff Adams commissioned for the Community Center will be unveiled at 3 p.m. on June 13.
- Klare Sunderland has received the John C. Baker Award for Exemplary Service from Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa. He is a former chair of the Juniata College board of trustees and president of Sun Enterprises Inc., Sun Investments Inc., and a variety of imported car dealerships.
- Juniata College assistant professor of history Douglas Stiffler has been named a Fulbright Research Fellow for 2008-09. He will research the relationship between Communist China and the Soviet Union from 1949-60 as a scholar-in-residence at Capital Normal University in Beijing. He will examine how China used Soviet financial aid during the 1950s, in preparation for a book titled "Socialist Modernity Under Soviet Tutelage."
- Bridgewater (Va.) College honored five alumni during Alumni Weekend on April 18-19. Siblings John S. Flory Jr. (class of 1932) and Margaret Flory Wampler Rainbolt (1937) received the 2008 Ripples Society Medals. John R. Milleson (1978) received the 2008 Distinguished Alumnus Award. The 2008 Young Alumnus Award was presented to A. David Ervin (1991). David R. Radcliff (1975) received the West-Whitelow Award for Humanitarian Service.
- Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind., has awarded a record $9.9 million in academic scholarships for the 2008-09 school year, according to a release. The college also offers aid based on financial need. The total scholarship amount sets a record for the college. "Interest in Manchester has been extraordinary this year," said David McFadden, executive vice president. "Applications are up more than 50 percent and nearly twice as many students participated in our academic scholarship interviews."
- Eric Sader Jr., a student at McPherson (Kan.) College, successfully broke the Guinness world record of "longest individual drum roll" recently. Sader set a record of 1 hour, 22 minutes, 5 seconds in the student union at 5:30 p.m. on April 29. Guinness said nobody had ever set a record for the longest individual drum roll, a release from the college reported. "They do have on record the longest group drum roll," Sader said. "It was over 12 hours. Every 10 to 15 minutes they would rotate out and get different drummers." Sader's record now leaves it open for someone to break it. "As of yet, his record still stands!" the release said.
- The "Brethren Voices" June program tells the story of the Brethren Service Cups with Bill Puffenberger of Elizabethtown (Pa.) Church of the Brethren. The June program presents an interview with Puffenberger, who researched the history of the Brethren Service Cups and shares about the cups exhibited at the Young Center of Elizabethtown College, as well as the prized Brethren Service stamps. In July, the program will feature an interview with Annual Conference moderator James Beckwith, pastor of Annville (Pa.) Church of the Brethren. Brethren Voices is a program for Church of the Brethren congregations to share with their communities via public access cable television, and is a project of Portland (Ore.) Peace Church of the Brethren. For more information, contact Ed Groff, producer, at groffprod1@msn.com. Individual programs are available for as little as an $8 donation or $100 per year.
- Welcoming Church Trainings have been announced by the Brethren Mennonite Council for LGBT Interests (BMC). La Verne (Calif.) Church of the Brethren hosts the first 2008 training, on June 6-8. Trainings also are offered on Sept. 19-21 at Wake Forest Divinity School in Winston-Salem, N.C.; Oct. 24-26 at Assembly Mennonite Church in Goshen, Ind.; and in November in Washington, D.C. Topics include change theory, church conflict and resolution, storytelling as public narrative, biblical exegesis, and strategizing for change, according to a release from BMC. Continuing education credits for pastors are available. Go to www.welcomingresources.org or www.bmclgbt.org. The ecumenical training is made possible through an Arcus Foundation grant awarded to BMC and three ecumenical partner organizations.
- Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT) has announced its first delegation to the Kurdish region of Iraq, on July 31-Aug. 14. CPT has had a presence in Iraq since Oct. 2002, first in Baghdad, and since Nov. 2006 in the Kurdish north of the country. Participants are expected to raise $3,000 for the trip. For more information or to apply, contact CPT, P.O. Box 6508, Chicago, IL 60680; 773-277-0253; delegations@cpt.org; or see www.cpt.org. Applications must be received by June 9.
- Geneva B. White of Vinton (Va.) Church of the Brethren received the "Valiant Woman Award" from Church Women United of the Roanoke (Va.) Valley for 2008. The award was given May 2. Geneva has served as president and vice president of the group.
Dennis Kingery resigns as director of credit union.
Dennis Kingery has resigned from his position as director of Credit Union Operations with Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT) effective Aug. 8. He has been accepted to the University of Denver (Colo.) Graduate School of International Studies where he will seek a masters degree in international development.
Kingery began working for BBT in Feb. 2004, when it began providing third-party administrative services for the Church of the Brethren Credit Union. He brought energy and strong technical skills to the position, and recently provided leadership in launching two new Credit Union products--debit cards and checking accounts.
Prior to working for BBT, he worked for the Church of the Brethren General Board as controller from 1998-2004. He also is an elected member of the McPherson (Kan.) College Board of Trustees and serves as treasurer for Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin, Ill.
Source: 5/23/2008 Newsline
Dennis Kingery has resigned from his position as director of Credit Union Operations with Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT) effective Aug. 8. He has been accepted to the University of Denver (Colo.) Graduate School of International Studies where he will seek a masters degree in international development.
Kingery began working for BBT in Feb. 2004, when it began providing third-party administrative services for the Church of the Brethren Credit Union. He brought energy and strong technical skills to the position, and recently provided leadership in launching two new Credit Union products--debit cards and checking accounts.
Prior to working for BBT, he worked for the Church of the Brethren General Board as controller from 1998-2004. He also is an elected member of the McPherson (Kan.) College Board of Trustees and serves as treasurer for Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin, Ill.
Source: 5/23/2008 Newsline
Julie Hostetter named as director of Brethren Academy.
Julie Mader Hostetter has been named director of the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership, a ministry training partnership of Bethany Theological Seminary and the Church of the Brethren General Board. She will begin on July 1. The Brethren Academy offices are located at the seminary in Richmond, Ind.
Hostetter is currently director of academic and student services at United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. She previously worked for the General Board as coordinator of Congregational Life Team Area 3, with specific focus on small membership and urban/ethnic congregations. She has been a member of the Pastoral Ethics Committee and the Church Extension Committee in Virlina District, and has been a pastor and a minister of music in Brethren congregations. She also has served as interim executive director of Metropolitan Churches United in Dayton, and has edited and written numerous Christian education resources.
She is a graduate of Lebanon Valley College in Annville, Pa. and United Theological Seminary, and currently is enrolled in a doctor of ministry program through the Center for Ministry and Leadership Development at Union-PSCE in Richmond, Va.
Source: 5/23/2008 Newsline
Julie Mader Hostetter has been named director of the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership, a ministry training partnership of Bethany Theological Seminary and the Church of the Brethren General Board. She will begin on July 1. The Brethren Academy offices are located at the seminary in Richmond, Ind.
Hostetter is currently director of academic and student services at United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. She previously worked for the General Board as coordinator of Congregational Life Team Area 3, with specific focus on small membership and urban/ethnic congregations. She has been a member of the Pastoral Ethics Committee and the Church Extension Committee in Virlina District, and has been a pastor and a minister of music in Brethren congregations. She also has served as interim executive director of Metropolitan Churches United in Dayton, and has edited and written numerous Christian education resources.
She is a graduate of Lebanon Valley College in Annville, Pa. and United Theological Seminary, and currently is enrolled in a doctor of ministry program through the Center for Ministry and Leadership Development at Union-PSCE in Richmond, Va.
Source: 5/23/2008 Newsline
‘Manual del Pastor’ offers Brethren worship manual in Spanish.
"Manual del Pastor" disponible en Brethren Press, 800-441-3712. Porciones escogidas del libro "For All Who Minister," manual de adoración para La Iglesia de los Hermanos. Espiral. Lexotone negro con letras dórales. $13.95. Los gastos de enviar será adicional.
A new book from Brethren Press, "Manual del Pastor," offers a Spanish language minister’s manual for Church of the Brethren pastors. "Manual del Pastor" offers selected services from "For All Who Minister," the Church of the Brethren worship manual in English, published by Brethren Press. The new book is spiral bound, with a black lexotone cover with gold stamping. Cost is $13.95 plus shipping and handling, order from www.brethrenpress.com or call 800-441-3712.
Source: 5/23/2008 Newsline
"Manual del Pastor" disponible en Brethren Press, 800-441-3712. Porciones escogidas del libro "For All Who Minister," manual de adoración para La Iglesia de los Hermanos. Espiral. Lexotone negro con letras dórales. $13.95. Los gastos de enviar será adicional.
A new book from Brethren Press, "Manual del Pastor," offers a Spanish language minister’s manual for Church of the Brethren pastors. "Manual del Pastor" offers selected services from "For All Who Minister," the Church of the Brethren worship manual in English, published by Brethren Press. The new book is spiral bound, with a black lexotone cover with gold stamping. Cost is $13.95 plus shipping and handling, order from www.brethrenpress.com or call 800-441-3712.
Source: 5/23/2008 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. Chrystal Bostian, Lerry Fogle, Mike Garner, Ed Groff, Mary K. Heatwole, Barbara Kienholz, Jon Kobel, Jeri S. Kornegay, Karin Krog, Donna March, Joan McGrath, Ken Shaffer, Marcia Shetler, Callie Surber, John Wall 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. Chrystal Bostian, Lerry Fogle, Mike Garner, Ed Groff, Mary K. Heatwole, Barbara Kienholz, Jon Kobel, Jeri S. Kornegay, Karin Krog, Donna March, Joan McGrath, Ken Shaffer, Marcia Shetler, Callie Surber, John Wall contributed to this report.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Newsline Update: Disaster Response
CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN RESPONDS TO MYANMAR CYCLONE, PREPARES GRANT FOR CHINA EARTHQUAKE RELIEF
The Church of the Brethren has given a total of $40,000 in two grants-- an initial grant of $5,000 and a follow up grant of $35,000--for relief efforts in Myanmar following Cyclone Nargis. The grants support the work of Church World Service (CWS) and its partners in Myanmar, and are given from the denomination's Emergency Disaster Fund. The money supports relief work being carried out by local groups to provide safe water and temporary shelters, with a more detailed longterm response being planned by CWS.
A grant of $30,000 for disaster relief following the China earthquake is in process, also from the Emergency Disaster Fund. This grant will support a larger coordinated response through CWS, with long-time partner Amity Foundation as the primary implementing agency in China.
Donations are being received to the Emergency Disaster Fund in anticipation of further grants responding to these disasters. Congregations and individuals may contribute to Church of the Brethren disaster relief work by sending donations to the Emergency Disaster Fund, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120.
China:
CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN RESPONDS TO MYANMAR CYCLONE, PREPARES GRANT FOR CHINA EARTHQUAKE RELIEF
The Church of the Brethren has given a total of $40,000 in two grants-- an initial grant of $5,000 and a follow up grant of $35,000--for relief efforts in Myanmar following Cyclone Nargis. The grants support the work of Church World Service (CWS) and its partners in Myanmar, and are given from the denomination's Emergency Disaster Fund. The money supports relief work being carried out by local groups to provide safe water and temporary shelters, with a more detailed longterm response being planned by CWS.
A grant of $30,000 for disaster relief following the China earthquake is in process, also from the Emergency Disaster Fund. This grant will support a larger coordinated response through CWS, with long-time partner Amity Foundation as the primary implementing agency in China.
Donations are being received to the Emergency Disaster Fund in anticipation of further grants responding to these disasters. Congregations and individuals may contribute to Church of the Brethren disaster relief work by sending donations to the Emergency Disaster Fund, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120.
China:
Brethren Disaster Ministries reported that the first phase of the response in China is immediate relief supplies including food, quilts, and shelter materials. The longer term response will include the rebuilding of homes, schools, hospitals, and safe water supplies. It is likely that the Church of the Brethren will give additional grants to support this longterm response, said the staff of Brethren Disaster Ministries.Myanmar:
In a report from CWS about the situation in China, Amity Foundation staff working in partnership with CWS have been assessing the damage in affected areas. Amity has already provided 1 million Yuan (approximately $143,000) for the purchase and provision of drinking water and food for heavily-damaged Du Jiangyan.
Working with local partners in each province, CWS-supported relief operations are expected to expand to include a number of other counties in Sichuang Province, the city of Longnan in Gansu Province, and Baoji city and Hanzhong city in Sha'anxi Province. CWS said that the areas of Gansu and Sha'anxi, especially Sichuan, are being targeted as the most severely affected areas, with large losses.
CWS partner Amity Foundation will focus its relief on some 8,000 families whose homes are destroyed and who are among the most vulnerable. Amity expects to ensure that 16,000 of the most vulnerable individuals have sufficient food (15 kilos of rice per person) during the immediate emergency period; that 8,000 families have sufficient additional protection against cold weather in the form of quilts; that 8,000 homeless families also have the added protection of plastic cloth to help them survive heavy rains forecast for the quake center areas.
The longterm plans for rebuilding by CWS and Amity Foundation include rehabilitation of 600 houses that were destroyed or severely damaged, construction of 10 schools, rebuilding five hospitals or clinics, and rehabilitating five drinking water or irrigation systems. CWS said the total budget is estimated at close to $1.5 million.
Local organizations are making the difference in Myanmar following the cyclone, according to CWS. The agency holds an appropriate license from the US government to provide financial help to Myanmar for emergency aid purposes, and the CWS Asia Pacific Regional Office in Bangkok, Thailand, is organizing response among faith-based, nongovernmental organizations that are members of the Action by Churches Together International Alliance (ACT).Brethren Disaster Ministries:
Local organizations in Myanmar are delivering food, water, and shelter two weeks after the cyclone and as tens of thousands of people still wait for assistance. CWS continues to report that its support is reaching survivors in need. It expects to continue to expand fundraising to support relief efforts in the country. CWS first provided humanitarian assistance in Burma in 1959 and has longterm partnerships there.
In the face of aid shipment and distribution challenges facing international sources, CWS said that local organizations are distributing relief supplies with commodities either purchased elsewhere in Myanmar, or purchased regionally and transported through channels that are still open into the country. Myanmar maintains open land-trade routes with Thailand and India that allow for importation of supplies. Local organizations have the advantage of knowing how best to obtain and distribute those goods, to where they're needed most, CWS said.
CWS and ACT member agencies are now warning against an impending and longer term food security crisis in Myanmar, if communities do not get rice seeds in the ground within the next month. There may not be rice crops for years to come, CWS said. Exacerbating the problem of getting rice for food and for planting quickly into the hands of survivors, experts report that flood waters have corrupted planting fields with salt in the affected areas of Myanmar.
Now is the time to support local organizations on the ground providing much needed urgent assistance, CWS said. Commitments made to survivors now will help them ensure that they can rebuild their lives, the agency emphasized.
The Church of the Brethren is just one of a variety of faith organizations aiding the CWS effort for Myanmar, in addition to public donations and other grants. The agency also has received support from United Methodist Church/UMCOR, Presbyterian Church USA/Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), United Church of Christ, and Episcopal Relief and Development, among others.
Go to http://churchworldservice.org/news/gallery/myanmar/index.html to view a Church World Service slide show on the response in Myanmar, with commentary.
Brethren Disaster Ministries is a program of the Church of the Brethren. In addition to its support to ecumenical partners responding to international disasters, the program also continues rebuilding homes following domestic disasters of the last few years in the United States. In early April, Brethren Disaster Ministries opened a new Hurricane Katrina rebuilding site in East New Orleans (Arabi), La., and another Hurricane Katrina rebuilding site is located in Chalmette, La. A third longterm project site in Rushford, Minn., is rebuilding homes following flooding. Go to www.brethren.org/genbd/BDM for more information.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Special: Disaster Response
CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN RESPONDS TO MYANMAR CYCLONE; STAFF MONITOR NEEDS FOLLOWING STORMS IN CENTRAL US, EARTHQUAKE IN CHINA
A second grant of $35,000 from the Emergency Disaster Fund of the Church of the Brethren is in process to support the work of Church World Service (CWS) in Myanmar following Cyclone Nargis.
Denominational staff also are monitoring how the Church of the Brethren may take part in disaster response following the earthquake that hit China yesterday, and the severe storms and tornados in the central US this past weekend.
Donations are being received to the Emergency Disaster Fund in anticipation of further grants responding to these disasters. Congregations and individuals may contribute to Church of the Brethren disaster relief work by sending donations to the Emergency Disaster Fund, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120.
The death toll from yesterday’s earthquake in China has now exceeded 12,000 in Sichuan Province, according to the official Xinhua News Agency, in news reports this morning. The reports said that more than 18,000 people were still buried in debris near the epicenter of the 7.9-magnitude earthquake.
More than 20 people were killed on May 10 by severe storms and tornadoes that destroyed or damaged hundreds of homes across the mid-south United States, according to a report yesterday from Disaster News Network. Most deaths were in northeastern Oklahoma and southwestern Missouri. Affected areas included the towns of Picher and Quapaw, Okla.; Newton County, Mo., near the town of Seneca; central Georgia south of Atlanta; and Bentonville and Stuttgart, Ark.
In Myanmar, the disaster relief support given through CWS is reaching those in need, the agency said yesterday in an e-mail report. The Church of the Brethren has already released a $5,000 grant toward the CWS effort in Myanmar, with funds from the Emergency Disaster Fund.
“Local organizations are distributing food, water, and emergency shelter supplies purchased in country throughout the affected areas,” CWS said. “Myanmar (Burma) still has open land-trade routes with Thailand and India that allow for the importation of supplies, meaning local markets still have commodities available.”
The CWS Asia-Pacific Regional Office in Bangkok, Thailand, is organizing the response to the Cyclone Nargis among faith-based, nongovernmental organizations that make up the Action by Churches Together (ACT) International Alliance.
Initially, CWS is providing emergency relief assistance--water (including purification supplies, bladders, and tanks) and shelter (tarps and blankets) supplies to assist some 3,000-4,000 families. In collaboration with IMA World Health, CWS also is providing basic medicines and medical supplies to equip clinics to treat some 100,000 people for up to three months.
CWS said it is uniquely suited to respond to the crisis in Myanmar because of its 60-year history of engaging local organizations to meet humanitarian needs. “CWS is appropriately licensed by the US Government to provide financial help to Myanmar (Burma),” the report added.
“Now is the time to support local organizations who are on the ground providing much needed urgent assistance to cyclone survivors,” CWS said. “ACT-supported local organizations are already responding through the distribution of rice, clean water, and temporary shelter items.... It is critical that we ensure that this major disaster does not turn into ongoing catastrophe.”
An update on Cyclone Nargis from CWS, dated May 12, reported that the official death toll is now almost 29,000, with 33,000 missing, but various estimates put the number who have perished as a result of the disaster at some 100,000. As many as 1.9 million people need emergency assistance.
CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN RESPONDS TO MYANMAR CYCLONE; STAFF MONITOR NEEDS FOLLOWING STORMS IN CENTRAL US, EARTHQUAKE IN CHINA
A second grant of $35,000 from the Emergency Disaster Fund of the Church of the Brethren is in process to support the work of Church World Service (CWS) in Myanmar following Cyclone Nargis.
Denominational staff also are monitoring how the Church of the Brethren may take part in disaster response following the earthquake that hit China yesterday, and the severe storms and tornados in the central US this past weekend.
Donations are being received to the Emergency Disaster Fund in anticipation of further grants responding to these disasters. Congregations and individuals may contribute to Church of the Brethren disaster relief work by sending donations to the Emergency Disaster Fund, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120.
The death toll from yesterday’s earthquake in China has now exceeded 12,000 in Sichuan Province, according to the official Xinhua News Agency, in news reports this morning. The reports said that more than 18,000 people were still buried in debris near the epicenter of the 7.9-magnitude earthquake.
More than 20 people were killed on May 10 by severe storms and tornadoes that destroyed or damaged hundreds of homes across the mid-south United States, according to a report yesterday from Disaster News Network. Most deaths were in northeastern Oklahoma and southwestern Missouri. Affected areas included the towns of Picher and Quapaw, Okla.; Newton County, Mo., near the town of Seneca; central Georgia south of Atlanta; and Bentonville and Stuttgart, Ark.
In Myanmar, the disaster relief support given through CWS is reaching those in need, the agency said yesterday in an e-mail report. The Church of the Brethren has already released a $5,000 grant toward the CWS effort in Myanmar, with funds from the Emergency Disaster Fund.
“Local organizations are distributing food, water, and emergency shelter supplies purchased in country throughout the affected areas,” CWS said. “Myanmar (Burma) still has open land-trade routes with Thailand and India that allow for the importation of supplies, meaning local markets still have commodities available.”
The CWS Asia-Pacific Regional Office in Bangkok, Thailand, is organizing the response to the Cyclone Nargis among faith-based, nongovernmental organizations that make up the Action by Churches Together (ACT) International Alliance.
Initially, CWS is providing emergency relief assistance--water (including purification supplies, bladders, and tanks) and shelter (tarps and blankets) supplies to assist some 3,000-4,000 families. In collaboration with IMA World Health, CWS also is providing basic medicines and medical supplies to equip clinics to treat some 100,000 people for up to three months.
CWS said it is uniquely suited to respond to the crisis in Myanmar because of its 60-year history of engaging local organizations to meet humanitarian needs. “CWS is appropriately licensed by the US Government to provide financial help to Myanmar (Burma),” the report added.
“Now is the time to support local organizations who are on the ground providing much needed urgent assistance to cyclone survivors,” CWS said. “ACT-supported local organizations are already responding through the distribution of rice, clean water, and temporary shelter items.... It is critical that we ensure that this major disaster does not turn into ongoing catastrophe.”
An update on Cyclone Nargis from CWS, dated May 12, reported that the official death toll is now almost 29,000, with 33,000 missing, but various estimates put the number who have perished as a result of the disaster at some 100,000. As many as 1.9 million people need emergency assistance.
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
NEWS
- Cross Cultural Celebration calls denomination to vision of Rev. 7:9.
- Brethren prepare grant to support disaster relief in Myanmar.
- Bethany Seminary celebrates 103rd commencement.
- Brethren to lead out in funding for North Korea farm program.
- On Earth Peace board meeting focuses on strategic planning.
- Brethren, Mennonites meet on uniting the church for peacemaking.
- Global Women's Project reaffirms its purpose.
- Juniata College board votes to arm campus security force.
- Brethren bits: Moderator visits EYN, Jr. High Conference, more.
- Darryl Deardorff retires as chief financial officer for BBT.
- Bethany Seminary calls new professors, interim academic dean.
- Annie Clark resigns from On Earth Peace.
- Andrew Murray retires as director of Baker Institute.
- Ed Woolf begins in new staff position with the General Board.
- BBT announces staff changes in finance, information services.
- Patrice Nightingale begins as manager of publications for BBT.
- More personnel notices, job openings.
Cross Cultural Celebration calls denomination to vision of Rev. 7:9.
"Separated No More" from Revelation 7:9 provided the theme for the 2008 Cross Cultural Consultation and Celebration, held in the Chicago area on April 24-26 (go to www.brethren.org to find a photo journal, click on "Photo Journal" for the link). More than 130 Brethren attended from across the US and Puerto Rico. Three congregations each hosted an evening of worship and fellowship--Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin, First Church of the Brethren in Chicago, and Naperville Church of the Brethren--and meetings were held at the denomination's General Offices in Elgin.
"Why are we here?" asked Rub*n Deoleo, in the opening statement of the consultation. "First of all we want to give glory to God.... Second, we want to make each of us aware that everybody is important for God, no matter who you are! You are important for the Church of the Brethren. We are here to be a witness so you can tell others about the Cross Cultural Consultation."
Deoleo welcomed the group in his new role as Congregational Life Teams staff for Area 2 with special responsibility for Cross Cultural Ministries. He emphasized that participants would not leave empty handed. The "homework" he gave included a charge to share learnings in cross cultural ministry with churches and communities.
In two powerful sermons, pastor Orlando Redekopp of First Church Chicago, and pastor Thomas Dowdy of Imperial Heights Church of the Brethren in Los Angeles, spoke about "the need to embrace the cross cultural project," in Redekopp's words.
Dowdy, who was a member of the Annual Conference Intercultural Study Committee, noted that "some of us have dreamed of these kinds of gatherings.... Dr. King dreamed of a nation living out its true meaning and its creed." The Intercultural Study Committee dreamed this dream for the Church of the Brethren, he said. He recalled how the study committee found that the work was God's, not their own. As they studied Revelation 7:9, they realized they had to "look through the lens of what God sees," Dowdy said. "God sees us in the future, that's the picture of Revelation 7:9." But it will take hard work to get there, he also warned.
Dowdy outlined several steps for the church to move into the vision of Revelation 7:9: first to understand oneself, second to "loosen up," third to keep a sense of humor, and fourth to not worry about making mistakes. Some are hesitant in cross cultural efforts because they are afraid of saying or doing something wrong, "but you may say something right," he encouraged. "Don't be afraid to step out.... You will not experience the Revelation 7:9 experience unless your mind and hearts will be transformed.... Revelation 7:9 can start today!"
Redekopp emphasized similar themes. "If we do not embrace the cross cultural project we will remain strangers, while the Gospel flourishes elsewhere," he said. Preaching on the experience of Pentecost, he characterized it as "this worldwide movement of languages talking about God's power." He asserted, "No language or culture is so superior that it can claim exclusive access to God.... Our Christian faith has always been on the cultural move. We are not required to go back to Bethlehem or Schwarzenau," he said, referring to the German village where the first Brethren were baptized in 1708. "Bethlehem is no longer in Palestine, it is in the heart of the believer."
Following his sermon, Redekopp received the first award for cross cultural ministry in the Church of the Brethren. "This is the first one, but it is not the last one," said Deoleo as he presented the award along with Duane Grady of the General Board's Congregational Life Team, and Sonja Griffith, pastor of First Central Church of the Brethren in Kansas City. The award honored Redekopp for a groundbreaking role in the first years of the consultation.
Griffith told of how at the first consultation in the late 1990s, participants shared stories of exclusion and hurt in the Church of the Brethren. The stories were so painful that participants were unable to hold Love Feast together in good faith. But at the second consultation in 2000 at Mack Memorial Church of the Brethren in Dayton, Ohio, Redekopp stood up to publicly confess and ask forgiveness on behalf of the caucasian majority in the church. "Orlando said to all his brothers and sisters of color, 'Please forgive us.'" Wuerthner James, an elderly African-American man and a longtime member of Trotwood (Ohio) Church of the Brethren, embraced him sobbing. "That started a spirit of healing," Griffith said, "to ask one another's forgiveness for the wrongs that had been done, the hurts that had been caused. That was a turning point."
A second award was given to Duane Grady, recognizing his work on cross cultural ministries as staff of the Congregational Life Team. The consultation gave him a standing ovation "for keeping this work going for so many years," in the words of the presenter. Grady responded, "All I can say is, look what God can do."
The consultation also featured a presentation on the history of the cross cultural work in the church, and an open discussion about cross cultural ministry with opportunity for participants to make comments and suggestions. Pastor Manuel Gonzalez of Una Nueva Vida En Cristo in Virlina District gave a presentation about serious issues facing the Hispanic community with regard to immigration. MERAN (Multi-Ethnic Reunion Adding Numbers) small group Bible studies were led by facilitators trained in a process of mutual invitation. The consultation also toured the denominational offices and heard about the ministries that are carried out there. At First Church Chicago, the group learned the history of that congregation and received a call to prayer for the rash of shootings of children in Chicago. Evenings at each congregation featured a meal provided by the church and fellowship around the tables.
During moments of worship, the gathering offered laying on of hands for Deoleo, for his work for cross cultural ministry; and for Annual Conference moderator James Beckwith, as he prepared to visit Ekklesiyar Yan'uwa a Nigeria (EYN--the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria).
The event was planned and led by the Cross Cultural Ministries Team Steering Committee: Founa Augustin, Barbara Date, Thomas Dowdy, Carla Gillespie, Sonja Griffith, Robert Jackson, Marisel Olivencia, Victor Olvera, Gilbert Romero, and Dennis Webb. Next year's Cross Cultural Consultation and Celebration will be held on April 23-26, 2009, in Miami, Fla.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline
"Separated No More" from Revelation 7:9 provided the theme for the 2008 Cross Cultural Consultation and Celebration, held in the Chicago area on April 24-26 (go to www.brethren.org to find a photo journal, click on "Photo Journal" for the link). More than 130 Brethren attended from across the US and Puerto Rico. Three congregations each hosted an evening of worship and fellowship--Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin, First Church of the Brethren in Chicago, and Naperville Church of the Brethren--and meetings were held at the denomination's General Offices in Elgin.
"Why are we here?" asked Rub*n Deoleo, in the opening statement of the consultation. "First of all we want to give glory to God.... Second, we want to make each of us aware that everybody is important for God, no matter who you are! You are important for the Church of the Brethren. We are here to be a witness so you can tell others about the Cross Cultural Consultation."
Deoleo welcomed the group in his new role as Congregational Life Teams staff for Area 2 with special responsibility for Cross Cultural Ministries. He emphasized that participants would not leave empty handed. The "homework" he gave included a charge to share learnings in cross cultural ministry with churches and communities.
In two powerful sermons, pastor Orlando Redekopp of First Church Chicago, and pastor Thomas Dowdy of Imperial Heights Church of the Brethren in Los Angeles, spoke about "the need to embrace the cross cultural project," in Redekopp's words.
Dowdy, who was a member of the Annual Conference Intercultural Study Committee, noted that "some of us have dreamed of these kinds of gatherings.... Dr. King dreamed of a nation living out its true meaning and its creed." The Intercultural Study Committee dreamed this dream for the Church of the Brethren, he said. He recalled how the study committee found that the work was God's, not their own. As they studied Revelation 7:9, they realized they had to "look through the lens of what God sees," Dowdy said. "God sees us in the future, that's the picture of Revelation 7:9." But it will take hard work to get there, he also warned.
Dowdy outlined several steps for the church to move into the vision of Revelation 7:9: first to understand oneself, second to "loosen up," third to keep a sense of humor, and fourth to not worry about making mistakes. Some are hesitant in cross cultural efforts because they are afraid of saying or doing something wrong, "but you may say something right," he encouraged. "Don't be afraid to step out.... You will not experience the Revelation 7:9 experience unless your mind and hearts will be transformed.... Revelation 7:9 can start today!"
Redekopp emphasized similar themes. "If we do not embrace the cross cultural project we will remain strangers, while the Gospel flourishes elsewhere," he said. Preaching on the experience of Pentecost, he characterized it as "this worldwide movement of languages talking about God's power." He asserted, "No language or culture is so superior that it can claim exclusive access to God.... Our Christian faith has always been on the cultural move. We are not required to go back to Bethlehem or Schwarzenau," he said, referring to the German village where the first Brethren were baptized in 1708. "Bethlehem is no longer in Palestine, it is in the heart of the believer."
Following his sermon, Redekopp received the first award for cross cultural ministry in the Church of the Brethren. "This is the first one, but it is not the last one," said Deoleo as he presented the award along with Duane Grady of the General Board's Congregational Life Team, and Sonja Griffith, pastor of First Central Church of the Brethren in Kansas City. The award honored Redekopp for a groundbreaking role in the first years of the consultation.
Griffith told of how at the first consultation in the late 1990s, participants shared stories of exclusion and hurt in the Church of the Brethren. The stories were so painful that participants were unable to hold Love Feast together in good faith. But at the second consultation in 2000 at Mack Memorial Church of the Brethren in Dayton, Ohio, Redekopp stood up to publicly confess and ask forgiveness on behalf of the caucasian majority in the church. "Orlando said to all his brothers and sisters of color, 'Please forgive us.'" Wuerthner James, an elderly African-American man and a longtime member of Trotwood (Ohio) Church of the Brethren, embraced him sobbing. "That started a spirit of healing," Griffith said, "to ask one another's forgiveness for the wrongs that had been done, the hurts that had been caused. That was a turning point."
A second award was given to Duane Grady, recognizing his work on cross cultural ministries as staff of the Congregational Life Team. The consultation gave him a standing ovation "for keeping this work going for so many years," in the words of the presenter. Grady responded, "All I can say is, look what God can do."
The consultation also featured a presentation on the history of the cross cultural work in the church, and an open discussion about cross cultural ministry with opportunity for participants to make comments and suggestions. Pastor Manuel Gonzalez of Una Nueva Vida En Cristo in Virlina District gave a presentation about serious issues facing the Hispanic community with regard to immigration. MERAN (Multi-Ethnic Reunion Adding Numbers) small group Bible studies were led by facilitators trained in a process of mutual invitation. The consultation also toured the denominational offices and heard about the ministries that are carried out there. At First Church Chicago, the group learned the history of that congregation and received a call to prayer for the rash of shootings of children in Chicago. Evenings at each congregation featured a meal provided by the church and fellowship around the tables.
During moments of worship, the gathering offered laying on of hands for Deoleo, for his work for cross cultural ministry; and for Annual Conference moderator James Beckwith, as he prepared to visit Ekklesiyar Yan'uwa a Nigeria (EYN--the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria).
The event was planned and led by the Cross Cultural Ministries Team Steering Committee: Founa Augustin, Barbara Date, Thomas Dowdy, Carla Gillespie, Sonja Griffith, Robert Jackson, Marisel Olivencia, Victor Olvera, Gilbert Romero, and Dennis Webb. Next year's Cross Cultural Consultation and Celebration will be held on April 23-26, 2009, in Miami, Fla.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline
Brethren prepare grant to support disaster relief in Myanmar.
The Church of the Brethren is contributing a $5,000 grant from its Emergency Disaster Fund to the international relief effort following a devastating cyclone in Myanmar. The grant supports the work of Church World Service (CWS) in Myanmar. CWS reports that the death toll is predicted to reach as high as 80,000 from the destruction brought by Cyclone Nagris, and thousands more are missing.
The grant request came from Brethren Disaster Ministries. "A coordinated response is hampered by extensive limitations from the Myanmar government and by US sanctions against the government," the request said. "This initial grant will support immediate relief operations and assessment of Myanmar Council of Churches. Additional grants are expected as CWS finds ways to work around these challenges."
CWS appealed for an initial amount of $50,000 from its supporters, and the Church of the Brethren is just one of several groups contributing grants. CWS Acting Asia Pacific Regional Coordinator is to arrive in Myanmar tomorrow, May 9, and other CWS team members are to follow as soon as their visas are cleared.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline
The Church of the Brethren is contributing a $5,000 grant from its Emergency Disaster Fund to the international relief effort following a devastating cyclone in Myanmar. The grant supports the work of Church World Service (CWS) in Myanmar. CWS reports that the death toll is predicted to reach as high as 80,000 from the destruction brought by Cyclone Nagris, and thousands more are missing.
The grant request came from Brethren Disaster Ministries. "A coordinated response is hampered by extensive limitations from the Myanmar government and by US sanctions against the government," the request said. "This initial grant will support immediate relief operations and assessment of Myanmar Council of Churches. Additional grants are expected as CWS finds ways to work around these challenges."
CWS appealed for an initial amount of $50,000 from its supporters, and the Church of the Brethren is just one of several groups contributing grants. CWS Acting Asia Pacific Regional Coordinator is to arrive in Myanmar tomorrow, May 9, and other CWS team members are to follow as soon as their visas are cleared.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline
Bethany Seminary celebrates 103rd commencement.
Bethany Theological Seminary celebrated its 103rd commencement on May 3. Two observances marked the occasion. A ceremony for conferring degrees took place in Bethany's Nicarry Chapel on the campus in Richmond, Ind. A public worship celebration was held at Richmond Church of the Brethren.
Sixteen students received degrees or certificates. Eleven students received a master of divinity degree, one with an emphasis in peace studies. Two students received a master of arts in theology degree, and three received a certificate in theological studies.
Steven L. Longenecker, professor and department chair of history and political science at Bridgewater (Va.) College, spoke at the conferring of degrees ceremony on the topic, "The Useful Dunker Past." Dawn Ottoni Wilhelm, associate professor of preaching and worship at Bethany, was the speaker for the afternoon worship service with a message titled, "Where the River Goes," based on Ezekiel 47:1-12.
Those who received a master of divinity degree were David Beebe of Bear Creek Church of the Brethren, Dayton, Ohio; Nan Lynn Alley Erbaugh of Lower Miami Church of the Brethren, Dayton; Stephen Carl Hershberger of Roaring Spring (Pa.) Church of the Brethren; Elizabeth Jacqueline Keller of Richmond (Ind.) Church of the Brethren; Jason Michael Kreighbaum of Nettle Creek Church of the Brethren, Hagerstown, Ind.; Matthew Eugene McKimmy of Good Shepherd Church of the Brethren, Blacksburg, Va.; V. Christina Singh of the Richmond Church; Karl Edward Stone of the Richmond Church; Paula Ziegler Ulrich of the Richmond Church; and Douglas Eugene Osborne Veal of the Richmond Church. Brandon Grady of Madison Avenue Church of the Brethren in York, Pa., received a master of divinity degree with a peace studies emphasis.
Receiving a master of arts in theology degree were Marla Bieber Abe of First Church of the Brethren, Akron, Ohio; and Susan Marie Ross of Churubusco (Ind.) United Methodist Church. Certificates of achievement in theological studies went to Mildred F. Baker of Diehls Cross Roads Church of the Brethren, Martinsburg, Pa.; Nicholas Edward Beam of Pleasant Hill (Ohio) Church of the Brethren; and Jerry M. Sales of Peoria (Ill.) Church of the Brethren.
Nan Erbaugh received distinction for her academic work in biblical studies. Matthew McKimmy received distinction for his work in ministry studies. Karl Stone received distinction for his work in biblical studies and ministry studies. Paula Ulrich received distinction for her work in theological and historical studies, and ministry studies.
--Marcia Shetler is director of public relations for Bethany Theological Seminary.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline
Bethany Theological Seminary celebrated its 103rd commencement on May 3. Two observances marked the occasion. A ceremony for conferring degrees took place in Bethany's Nicarry Chapel on the campus in Richmond, Ind. A public worship celebration was held at Richmond Church of the Brethren.
Sixteen students received degrees or certificates. Eleven students received a master of divinity degree, one with an emphasis in peace studies. Two students received a master of arts in theology degree, and three received a certificate in theological studies.
Steven L. Longenecker, professor and department chair of history and political science at Bridgewater (Va.) College, spoke at the conferring of degrees ceremony on the topic, "The Useful Dunker Past." Dawn Ottoni Wilhelm, associate professor of preaching and worship at Bethany, was the speaker for the afternoon worship service with a message titled, "Where the River Goes," based on Ezekiel 47:1-12.
Those who received a master of divinity degree were David Beebe of Bear Creek Church of the Brethren, Dayton, Ohio; Nan Lynn Alley Erbaugh of Lower Miami Church of the Brethren, Dayton; Stephen Carl Hershberger of Roaring Spring (Pa.) Church of the Brethren; Elizabeth Jacqueline Keller of Richmond (Ind.) Church of the Brethren; Jason Michael Kreighbaum of Nettle Creek Church of the Brethren, Hagerstown, Ind.; Matthew Eugene McKimmy of Good Shepherd Church of the Brethren, Blacksburg, Va.; V. Christina Singh of the Richmond Church; Karl Edward Stone of the Richmond Church; Paula Ziegler Ulrich of the Richmond Church; and Douglas Eugene Osborne Veal of the Richmond Church. Brandon Grady of Madison Avenue Church of the Brethren in York, Pa., received a master of divinity degree with a peace studies emphasis.
Receiving a master of arts in theology degree were Marla Bieber Abe of First Church of the Brethren, Akron, Ohio; and Susan Marie Ross of Churubusco (Ind.) United Methodist Church. Certificates of achievement in theological studies went to Mildred F. Baker of Diehls Cross Roads Church of the Brethren, Martinsburg, Pa.; Nicholas Edward Beam of Pleasant Hill (Ohio) Church of the Brethren; and Jerry M. Sales of Peoria (Ill.) Church of the Brethren.
Nan Erbaugh received distinction for her academic work in biblical studies. Matthew McKimmy received distinction for his work in ministry studies. Karl Stone received distinction for his work in biblical studies and ministry studies. Paula Ulrich received distinction for her work in theological and historical studies, and ministry studies.
--Marcia Shetler is director of public relations for Bethany Theological Seminary.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline
Brethren to lead out in funding for North Korea farm program.
A grant of $42,500 from the Church of the Brethren account at the Foods Resource Bank confirms the denomination as the lead sponsor of the Ryongyon Sustainable Food Security Program in North Korea. The Brethren account is made up of funds raised by local Church of the Brethren growing projects, and is sponsored by the denomination's Global Food Crisis Fund.
The North Korea farm project supports environmentally friendly community development at a group of four collective farms covering over 7,000 acres. The Church of the Brethren is to be the lead sponsor for the three-year hunger program that will provide $100,000 to the farms this year, and is expected to provide $100,000 each year for the next two years. Earlier this year, Global Food Crisis Fund manager Howard Royer organized and was part of a delegation to North Korea.
The Foods Resource Bank general account will provide a matching grant of $42,500 to the project, and ecumenical partners will provide the remainder to make up the total of $100,000. Partners are Mennonite Central Committee, the United Methodist Committee on World Relief, the United Church of Christ, and Lutheran World Relief.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline
A grant of $42,500 from the Church of the Brethren account at the Foods Resource Bank confirms the denomination as the lead sponsor of the Ryongyon Sustainable Food Security Program in North Korea. The Brethren account is made up of funds raised by local Church of the Brethren growing projects, and is sponsored by the denomination's Global Food Crisis Fund.
The North Korea farm project supports environmentally friendly community development at a group of four collective farms covering over 7,000 acres. The Church of the Brethren is to be the lead sponsor for the three-year hunger program that will provide $100,000 to the farms this year, and is expected to provide $100,000 each year for the next two years. Earlier this year, Global Food Crisis Fund manager Howard Royer organized and was part of a delegation to North Korea.
The Foods Resource Bank general account will provide a matching grant of $42,500 to the project, and ecumenical partners will provide the remainder to make up the total of $100,000. Partners are Mennonite Central Committee, the United Methodist Committee on World Relief, the United Church of Christ, and Lutheran World Relief.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline
On Earth Peace board meeting focuses on strategic planning.
On April 4-5, the board of directors of On Earth Peace met at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. Each session of the meeting opened with devotions and prayer, led by members of the board. On Earth Peace continues to conduct discussion and decision-making by consensus, led by board chair Verdena Lee.
The primary focus of the meeting was program planning and prioritizing areas of work. The board received a preliminary report from a strategic planning work group, and approved the basic directions of the plan that is emerging from the group's work. In September, the board will consider the complete strategic plan.
Staff reports included news of recent work in churches in Florida and Puerto Rico; continuing interest in the Welcome Home Project; conversations with First Church of the Brethren in Harrisburg, Pa., regarding partnership in youth education; reconciliation workshops and youth retreats planned for many locations; and local meetings with constituents and congregations. The board was pleased to learn that in 2007, On Earth Peace provided direct programs and services in all 23 districts of the denomination.
A process of discerning how On Earth Peace will respond to questions and requests related to sexual orientation and inclusion in the life of the church concluded, after several unifying and clarifying discussions, with a decision to support all efforts for greater justice.
New board member Jim Replogle of Bridgewater, Va., was welcomed along with new staff members Gimbiya Kettering and Marie Rhoades. Updates were received from members of the board who represent On Earth Peace in liaison relationships: Doris Abdullah, on the UN NGO Subcommitttee on the Elimination of Racism; Phil Miller, on the steering committee of Christian Peacemaker Teams; and Madalyn Metzger, on the board of New Community Project.
--Bob Gross is executive director of On Earth Peace.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline
On April 4-5, the board of directors of On Earth Peace met at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. Each session of the meeting opened with devotions and prayer, led by members of the board. On Earth Peace continues to conduct discussion and decision-making by consensus, led by board chair Verdena Lee.
The primary focus of the meeting was program planning and prioritizing areas of work. The board received a preliminary report from a strategic planning work group, and approved the basic directions of the plan that is emerging from the group's work. In September, the board will consider the complete strategic plan.
Staff reports included news of recent work in churches in Florida and Puerto Rico; continuing interest in the Welcome Home Project; conversations with First Church of the Brethren in Harrisburg, Pa., regarding partnership in youth education; reconciliation workshops and youth retreats planned for many locations; and local meetings with constituents and congregations. The board was pleased to learn that in 2007, On Earth Peace provided direct programs and services in all 23 districts of the denomination.
A process of discerning how On Earth Peace will respond to questions and requests related to sexual orientation and inclusion in the life of the church concluded, after several unifying and clarifying discussions, with a decision to support all efforts for greater justice.
New board member Jim Replogle of Bridgewater, Va., was welcomed along with new staff members Gimbiya Kettering and Marie Rhoades. Updates were received from members of the board who represent On Earth Peace in liaison relationships: Doris Abdullah, on the UN NGO Subcommitttee on the Elimination of Racism; Phil Miller, on the steering committee of Christian Peacemaker Teams; and Madalyn Metzger, on the board of New Community Project.
--Bob Gross is executive director of On Earth Peace.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline
Brethren, Mennonites meet on uniting the church for peacemaking.
Is it possible for a broken church to heal a divided society? A conference of people of Church of the Brethren and Mennonite backgrounds met in Washington, D.C., on April 11-12 to discuss this question. "Bridging Divides: Uniting the Church for Peacemaking" was held at Capitol Hill United Methodist Church, hosted by the Brethren Witness/Washington Office and the Anabaptist Peace Center. Speakers and participants discussed how to interact with those who are miles away politically, but sit next to us in worship every Sunday. Can we find common ground yet remain the prophetic voice in society?
An opening session on "Sources of Our Common Faith" was led by Celia Cook-Huffman, the W. Clay and Kathryn H. Burkholder Professor of Conflict Resolution at Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa., and Nate Yoder, associate professor of church history and director of the master of arts in religion program at Eastern Mennonite Seminary. Yoder discussed the idea that the church is empowered to discern according to criteria in the Lord's prayer, that God's kingdom come and God's will be done on earth as it is in heaven. When discussing sources of common faith between Mennonites and Brethren, the peace position is the main link, he said. Historically, both churches have been very strong on the peace position, but he asked, how is it playing out today? Cook-Huffman stressed history, rituals, faith, and community. The Brethren tradition of footwashing holds special significance, as does our shared story. She also emphasized getting conflict out in the open, talking about it, and resolving it peacefully.
Friday night's worship featured Myron Augsburger, professor and president emeritus at Eastern Mennonite University. "For me, the deeper convictions for peace find their base in the Lordship of Christ, in his teachings and his mission of a crosscultural and global extension of his kingdom," Augsburger said. He talked about the need for an ecumenical association of people committed to nonviolence. The members of the church are citizens of the state and may properly challenge the state's just war theory, as well as fellow Christians who hold to this view, he said.
A plenary on "Mending the Broken Body of Christ" was led by Chris Bowman, pastor of Oakton (Va.) Church of the Brethren and a past moderator of Annual Conference, and Michelle Armster, codirector of Mennonite Central Committee's Office on Justice and Peacebuilding. Bowman spoke about shifting circles of loyalty. The circle for Christians used to be the church, but now people have many different circles or spheres of influence, and other circles often do not interact much with the church, he said. He talked about pastoring as redrawing the circle, creating a family house where diversity can live.
A final session on "Christians Engaging the World" was led by Phil Jones, director of the Brethren Witness/Washington Office, and Steve Brown, minister and director of care ministry at Calvary Community Church in Hampton, Va., a Mennonite church. Jones stressed the importance of acting on matters of conscience, finding what makes you passionate and then being a strong advocate for that issue. Brown pushed the church to get out and minister to the community. He also invited people to openly talk about issues of racism, poverty, and violence. "We are called to be risk-takers, to move beyond the four walls of the church building," he said.
The conference was a success in the minds of those who attended, and the hope is that it can continue annually. When asked why he attended, Jerry O'Donnell, a Brethren Volunteer Service worker, said, "I came to this conference to learn more about our struggles--both as a church and part of the Anabaptist movement--hoping to learn how we can peacefully resolve our internal divisions.
"I learned, simply, that we have taken the first step in mending the broken body of Christ by coming together in His name, committed to another way of living," O'Donnell said. "Peace for far too long has solely been seen as the ends or the goal--a sort of distant prize. I think it is high time that we restore our faith in peace as the means."
--Rianna Barrett is a legislative associate at the Brethren Witness/Washington Office.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline
Is it possible for a broken church to heal a divided society? A conference of people of Church of the Brethren and Mennonite backgrounds met in Washington, D.C., on April 11-12 to discuss this question. "Bridging Divides: Uniting the Church for Peacemaking" was held at Capitol Hill United Methodist Church, hosted by the Brethren Witness/Washington Office and the Anabaptist Peace Center. Speakers and participants discussed how to interact with those who are miles away politically, but sit next to us in worship every Sunday. Can we find common ground yet remain the prophetic voice in society?
An opening session on "Sources of Our Common Faith" was led by Celia Cook-Huffman, the W. Clay and Kathryn H. Burkholder Professor of Conflict Resolution at Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa., and Nate Yoder, associate professor of church history and director of the master of arts in religion program at Eastern Mennonite Seminary. Yoder discussed the idea that the church is empowered to discern according to criteria in the Lord's prayer, that God's kingdom come and God's will be done on earth as it is in heaven. When discussing sources of common faith between Mennonites and Brethren, the peace position is the main link, he said. Historically, both churches have been very strong on the peace position, but he asked, how is it playing out today? Cook-Huffman stressed history, rituals, faith, and community. The Brethren tradition of footwashing holds special significance, as does our shared story. She also emphasized getting conflict out in the open, talking about it, and resolving it peacefully.
Friday night's worship featured Myron Augsburger, professor and president emeritus at Eastern Mennonite University. "For me, the deeper convictions for peace find their base in the Lordship of Christ, in his teachings and his mission of a crosscultural and global extension of his kingdom," Augsburger said. He talked about the need for an ecumenical association of people committed to nonviolence. The members of the church are citizens of the state and may properly challenge the state's just war theory, as well as fellow Christians who hold to this view, he said.
A plenary on "Mending the Broken Body of Christ" was led by Chris Bowman, pastor of Oakton (Va.) Church of the Brethren and a past moderator of Annual Conference, and Michelle Armster, codirector of Mennonite Central Committee's Office on Justice and Peacebuilding. Bowman spoke about shifting circles of loyalty. The circle for Christians used to be the church, but now people have many different circles or spheres of influence, and other circles often do not interact much with the church, he said. He talked about pastoring as redrawing the circle, creating a family house where diversity can live.
A final session on "Christians Engaging the World" was led by Phil Jones, director of the Brethren Witness/Washington Office, and Steve Brown, minister and director of care ministry at Calvary Community Church in Hampton, Va., a Mennonite church. Jones stressed the importance of acting on matters of conscience, finding what makes you passionate and then being a strong advocate for that issue. Brown pushed the church to get out and minister to the community. He also invited people to openly talk about issues of racism, poverty, and violence. "We are called to be risk-takers, to move beyond the four walls of the church building," he said.
The conference was a success in the minds of those who attended, and the hope is that it can continue annually. When asked why he attended, Jerry O'Donnell, a Brethren Volunteer Service worker, said, "I came to this conference to learn more about our struggles--both as a church and part of the Anabaptist movement--hoping to learn how we can peacefully resolve our internal divisions.
"I learned, simply, that we have taken the first step in mending the broken body of Christ by coming together in His name, committed to another way of living," O'Donnell said. "Peace for far too long has solely been seen as the ends or the goal--a sort of distant prize. I think it is high time that we restore our faith in peace as the means."
--Rianna Barrett is a legislative associate at the Brethren Witness/Washington Office.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline
Global Women's Project reaffirms its purpose.
The Global Women's Project's Steering Committee met in Richmond, Ind., on March 7-9. The steering committee also led worship for Bethany Theological Seminary and Earlham School of Religion. The group includes Judi Brown of N. Manchester, Ind.; Nan Erbaugh of W. Alexandria, Ohio; Anna Lisa Gross of Richmond, Ind.; Lois Grove of Council Bluffs, Iowa; Jacki Hartley of Elgin, Ill.; and Bonnie Kline- Smeltzer of Boalsburg, Pa.
The Global Women's Project is a Church of the Brethren group that seeks to educate about the global poverty, oppression, and injustice which women suffer and how our own over consumption and misuse of resources directly contributes to their suffering.
At the meeting, the committee reaffirmed the educational purpose of the project regarding lifestyles and luxury, and rejoiced in the steady flow of generosity from women and men in the Church of the Brethren. The committee also reveled in the astounding work of empowerment of women throughout the world, responded to several requests for support, received the gratitude of ambassadors and partners with the project, and recognized the important work they are doing.
The group reflected on the balance between building deeper relationships with partners, and giving freedom and all possible resources to partner sites. Partner sites include Casa Materna in Matalgapa, Nicaragua; Women Empowerment, Nepal; Palestine News Network radio show for women in Bethlehem; Carpentry Cooperative in Maridi, Sudan; and Shifting Ideas Through Education for African Women, Uganda and Kenya. The project gave one-time grants to Christian Commission for Development in Honduras and a women's sewing cooperative in Nimule, Sudan.
The committee expressed gratitude for the long and dedicated work of Lois Grove and Bonnie Kline-Smeltzer, whose terms end this spring, and announced the affirmation of new members Myrna Frantz-Wheeler of Haverhill, Iowa, and Elizabeth Keller of Richmond, Ind. Go to www.brethren.org/genbd/witness/gwp for more information, or contact the steering committee at cobgwp@gmail.com.
--Anna Lisa Gross is a member of the Global Women's Project steering committee.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline
The Global Women's Project's Steering Committee met in Richmond, Ind., on March 7-9. The steering committee also led worship for Bethany Theological Seminary and Earlham School of Religion. The group includes Judi Brown of N. Manchester, Ind.; Nan Erbaugh of W. Alexandria, Ohio; Anna Lisa Gross of Richmond, Ind.; Lois Grove of Council Bluffs, Iowa; Jacki Hartley of Elgin, Ill.; and Bonnie Kline- Smeltzer of Boalsburg, Pa.
The Global Women's Project is a Church of the Brethren group that seeks to educate about the global poverty, oppression, and injustice which women suffer and how our own over consumption and misuse of resources directly contributes to their suffering.
At the meeting, the committee reaffirmed the educational purpose of the project regarding lifestyles and luxury, and rejoiced in the steady flow of generosity from women and men in the Church of the Brethren. The committee also reveled in the astounding work of empowerment of women throughout the world, responded to several requests for support, received the gratitude of ambassadors and partners with the project, and recognized the important work they are doing.
The group reflected on the balance between building deeper relationships with partners, and giving freedom and all possible resources to partner sites. Partner sites include Casa Materna in Matalgapa, Nicaragua; Women Empowerment, Nepal; Palestine News Network radio show for women in Bethlehem; Carpentry Cooperative in Maridi, Sudan; and Shifting Ideas Through Education for African Women, Uganda and Kenya. The project gave one-time grants to Christian Commission for Development in Honduras and a women's sewing cooperative in Nimule, Sudan.
The committee expressed gratitude for the long and dedicated work of Lois Grove and Bonnie Kline-Smeltzer, whose terms end this spring, and announced the affirmation of new members Myrna Frantz-Wheeler of Haverhill, Iowa, and Elizabeth Keller of Richmond, Ind. Go to www.brethren.org/genbd/witness/gwp for more information, or contact the steering committee at cobgwp@gmail.com.
--Anna Lisa Gross is a member of the Global Women's Project steering committee.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline
Juniata College board votes to arm campus security force.
The Juniata College Board of Trustees voted April 19 to begin the process of arming its Safety and Security Services Department. Juniata College is a Church of the Brethren school in Huntingdon, Pa., and hosts the Baker Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies, one of the oldest peace studies programs in the country.
Juniata is the second Brethren school to make such a decision, following Bridgewater (Va.) College which for the past six years has employed sworn law enforcement officers who are permitted to carry guns on campus.
"In the wake of the student tragedies at Virginia Tech and Northern Illinois University, all colleges have started re-examining their security measures and we believe arming our officers is one of a number of important steps we are implementing to be sure our campus is safe," said Juniata president Thomas R. Kepple in a press release.
The other five church related schools--Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Ind.; Elizabethtown (Pa.) College; Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind.; McPherson (Kan.) College; and the University of La Verne (Calif.)--do not have armed campus security. Bethany's security is provided by the Quaker-related Earlham College.
After the Virginia Tech shootings, "there were definitely questions being asked by parents," said John Wall, director of media relations for Juniata and a member of the Review Group that brought the recommendation. "It became pretty clear that parents and employees and other groups on campus wanted to look at security," he said.
Juniata reached the decision to arm its campus security "after a thorough evaluation of options," the press release said. "In April 2007, Kepple appointed a Review Group task force to evaluate Juniata's current security measures and make recommendations on changes to campus security measures. The group made a series of recommendations to improve security in August 2007. In addition, the college hired a security consultant to evaluate its overall security policies."
Juniata also recently added other measures, including a locking system for residence halls, plans to install a warning siren and to hold emergency drills, and a "notice of concern" program that allows students, faculty, or staff to identify students exhibiting signs of stress or other problematic behavior. In 2004, Juniata requested and was granted authority as a private police department by a county court, which allowed the college's security personnel to exercise full police powers in their jurisdictional areas.
At Bridgewater College, president Phillip C. Stone made the decision "to protect...students with a trained police officer," said Karen Wigginton, vice president for college relations. The college employs two sworn, certified law enforcement officers who are permitted to carry guns, and five campus safety officers who are not armed. The Bridgewater College Police Department is certified as a law enforcement agency by the Commonwealth of Virginia.
The decision to have armed police on campus "has not been an issue in the past, and was embraced even more after the Virginia Tech incident," Wigginton said, when asked whether there was discussion of the college's relationship with the Church of the Brethren when the decision was made to have armed police on campus.
Juniata's relationship with a historic peace church was discussed as the college made its decision, Wall said. "It wasn't an easy decision," he said. The process included forums and meetings with faculty and students. "In all those meetings there were people who raised their hands for the longstanding peace tradition," Wall said. He stated that the college has not received much comment from constituent groups about its decision, but that at least one peace and conflict studies major has met with the dean of students about the issue.
However, a resolution concerning the issue was sent to the Juniata College Board of Trustees by the board of the Baker Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies, according to Baker Institute director Andrew Murray. The resolution from the Baker Institute board urged the trustees to gather more information and make their own decision on the matter, rather than just accept the recommendation of the Review Group, Murray said. "We went on record as saying that the board really did not take the time to ask its own questions and do its own studies," Murray said.
On the Board of Trustees, with a make up of about one-fifth Church of the Brethren members, the vote for armed security personnel "was not unanimous, but there was a pretty overwhelming majority," Wall said.
Juniata's decision finally came down to a response to what is happening in the world, Wall said. He contended that "there's a consensus among colleges that you can't stand still and let this (shootings like Virginia Tech) happen to you. You have to make sure that your atmosphere is the safest available.... Arming the campus security force makes people feel more comfortable about a random incident. The person who might do these kinds of things might go somewhere else."
"I think it (the decision to arm security) is short sighted and based on extremely questionable logic," Murray said. "In short, we had two tragic shootings at universities that had armed security. To go from that to say we ought to arm our security seems like interesting logic. And I regret that a decision that ignores the heritage of the college was made so quickly."
"It's a hot topic and a tough discussion for colleges," said Lamont Rothrock, dean of students at McPherson College. "We're not in that kind of situation, being in a very safe community. Our police are within five minutes of being on campus." He emphasized that McPherson has a very small residential student body and that it has enacted a variety of other measures for security.
Jeri Kornegay, director of media and public relations at Manchester College, also cited a good relationship with community police. "We have a close relationship with the local police force," she said. The police department is only two miles from campus. Manchester also works hard to maintain close relationships within the campus community and with students, she said.
Elizabethtown College has a trained campus security force but has no intention to arm it, said Mary Dolheimer, director of marketing and media relations. "We are particularly sensitive to our heritage as a peace institution, and feel that arming security guards runs counter to that. We are not moving in that direction in any way, shape, or form."
Campus security is not armed at the University of La Verne, located in a metropolitan area west of Los Angeles. "We're not even thinking about that," said Charles Bentley, public relations director.
Juniata's decision to arm its campus security officers means each must now complete a state training program known as Lethal Weapons certification. Wall said it may take six months or more before weapons will be carried on campus by security.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline
The Juniata College Board of Trustees voted April 19 to begin the process of arming its Safety and Security Services Department. Juniata College is a Church of the Brethren school in Huntingdon, Pa., and hosts the Baker Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies, one of the oldest peace studies programs in the country.
Juniata is the second Brethren school to make such a decision, following Bridgewater (Va.) College which for the past six years has employed sworn law enforcement officers who are permitted to carry guns on campus.
"In the wake of the student tragedies at Virginia Tech and Northern Illinois University, all colleges have started re-examining their security measures and we believe arming our officers is one of a number of important steps we are implementing to be sure our campus is safe," said Juniata president Thomas R. Kepple in a press release.
The other five church related schools--Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Ind.; Elizabethtown (Pa.) College; Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind.; McPherson (Kan.) College; and the University of La Verne (Calif.)--do not have armed campus security. Bethany's security is provided by the Quaker-related Earlham College.
After the Virginia Tech shootings, "there were definitely questions being asked by parents," said John Wall, director of media relations for Juniata and a member of the Review Group that brought the recommendation. "It became pretty clear that parents and employees and other groups on campus wanted to look at security," he said.
Juniata reached the decision to arm its campus security "after a thorough evaluation of options," the press release said. "In April 2007, Kepple appointed a Review Group task force to evaluate Juniata's current security measures and make recommendations on changes to campus security measures. The group made a series of recommendations to improve security in August 2007. In addition, the college hired a security consultant to evaluate its overall security policies."
Juniata also recently added other measures, including a locking system for residence halls, plans to install a warning siren and to hold emergency drills, and a "notice of concern" program that allows students, faculty, or staff to identify students exhibiting signs of stress or other problematic behavior. In 2004, Juniata requested and was granted authority as a private police department by a county court, which allowed the college's security personnel to exercise full police powers in their jurisdictional areas.
At Bridgewater College, president Phillip C. Stone made the decision "to protect...students with a trained police officer," said Karen Wigginton, vice president for college relations. The college employs two sworn, certified law enforcement officers who are permitted to carry guns, and five campus safety officers who are not armed. The Bridgewater College Police Department is certified as a law enforcement agency by the Commonwealth of Virginia.
The decision to have armed police on campus "has not been an issue in the past, and was embraced even more after the Virginia Tech incident," Wigginton said, when asked whether there was discussion of the college's relationship with the Church of the Brethren when the decision was made to have armed police on campus.
Juniata's relationship with a historic peace church was discussed as the college made its decision, Wall said. "It wasn't an easy decision," he said. The process included forums and meetings with faculty and students. "In all those meetings there were people who raised their hands for the longstanding peace tradition," Wall said. He stated that the college has not received much comment from constituent groups about its decision, but that at least one peace and conflict studies major has met with the dean of students about the issue.
However, a resolution concerning the issue was sent to the Juniata College Board of Trustees by the board of the Baker Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies, according to Baker Institute director Andrew Murray. The resolution from the Baker Institute board urged the trustees to gather more information and make their own decision on the matter, rather than just accept the recommendation of the Review Group, Murray said. "We went on record as saying that the board really did not take the time to ask its own questions and do its own studies," Murray said.
On the Board of Trustees, with a make up of about one-fifth Church of the Brethren members, the vote for armed security personnel "was not unanimous, but there was a pretty overwhelming majority," Wall said.
Juniata's decision finally came down to a response to what is happening in the world, Wall said. He contended that "there's a consensus among colleges that you can't stand still and let this (shootings like Virginia Tech) happen to you. You have to make sure that your atmosphere is the safest available.... Arming the campus security force makes people feel more comfortable about a random incident. The person who might do these kinds of things might go somewhere else."
"I think it (the decision to arm security) is short sighted and based on extremely questionable logic," Murray said. "In short, we had two tragic shootings at universities that had armed security. To go from that to say we ought to arm our security seems like interesting logic. And I regret that a decision that ignores the heritage of the college was made so quickly."
"It's a hot topic and a tough discussion for colleges," said Lamont Rothrock, dean of students at McPherson College. "We're not in that kind of situation, being in a very safe community. Our police are within five minutes of being on campus." He emphasized that McPherson has a very small residential student body and that it has enacted a variety of other measures for security.
Jeri Kornegay, director of media and public relations at Manchester College, also cited a good relationship with community police. "We have a close relationship with the local police force," she said. The police department is only two miles from campus. Manchester also works hard to maintain close relationships within the campus community and with students, she said.
Elizabethtown College has a trained campus security force but has no intention to arm it, said Mary Dolheimer, director of marketing and media relations. "We are particularly sensitive to our heritage as a peace institution, and feel that arming security guards runs counter to that. We are not moving in that direction in any way, shape, or form."
Campus security is not armed at the University of La Verne, located in a metropolitan area west of Los Angeles. "We're not even thinking about that," said Charles Bentley, public relations director.
Juniata's decision to arm its campus security officers means each must now complete a state training program known as Lethal Weapons certification. Wall said it may take six months or more before weapons will be carried on campus by security.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline
Brethren bits: Moderator visits EYN, Jr. High Conference, more.
- Annual Conference moderator Jim Beckwith left April 30 for a 12-day visit to Ekklesiyar Yan'uwa a Nigeria (EYN--the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria). The trip includes an opportunity for Beckwith to preach in Garkida, where his family lived when he was in high school. His parents were missionaries in Nigeria with the Church of the Brethren.
- Next year's National Junior High Conference will be held June 19-21, 2009, at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Va. The event is for junior high youth grades 6-8 and their advisors. Rebekah Houff will serve as coordinator, and the event is sponsored by the denomination's Youth and Young Adult Ministries. Congregations are invited to begin planning now for their junior high youth to participate.
- A month remains to register for National Young Adult Conference. Registration ends June 1. The conference will be Aug. 11-15 at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colo. Go to www.nyac08.org to register. After June 1, those who want to attend must call the Youth and Young Adult Ministries Office at 800-323-8039 ext. 281 to be waitlisted.
- The final event in a series of Deacon Ministry Training Events will be May 31 at Frederick (Md.) Church of the Brethren, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The registration deadline is May 16. The speaker is Jay Gibble, former executive director of the Association of Brethren Caregivers. Visit www.brethren.org/abc/deacons or call 800-323-8039.
- First Church of the Brethren in Chicago, Ill., is holding an event at 4 p.m. on May 18 recognizing the 40th anniversary of the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., during the 300th Anniversary year of the Church of the Brethren. Stephen Breck Reid, academic dean at Bethany Theological Seminary, will speak on the topic, "300 Years and 40 Years: Church of the Brethren and Martin Luther King, Jr., Two Anniversaries in Dialogue." He also will preach for the 11 a.m. worship service. Contact First Church of the Brethren at 773-533-4273 or see www.firstcob.org.
- Creekside Church of the Brethren in Elkhart, Ind., is planning a Blessing of the Bikes (motorcycles) and an escorted ride through Elkhart County on May 17. "This will be our second year and we are looking to see about 100 bikes," reported Jim Vance. The event raises money for the Church Community Services and helps the youth group raise money for National Youth Conference. Participants receive commemorative kickstand plates and decals. Go to http://bikes.creeksideconnected.com for more information.
- The 16th Annual Shenandoah District Disaster Ministries auction will be held May 16-17 at the Rockingham County Fairgrounds south of Harrisonburg, Va. The auction features livestock, one-of-a-kind art and craft items, handmade furniture, quilts, and a week at an Outer Banks vacation house. Meals include an oyster and ham dinner on Friday, pancake breakfast with sausage gravy or choice of omelets on Saturday, and a chicken barbecue lunch on Saturday. Visit www.shencob.org or call 888-308-8555 for more information.
- The Church of the Brethren colleges hold their commencement ceremonies in May:
- Bridgewater (Va.) College commencement will be at 2 p.m. on May 11, with Frank J. Williams, chief justice of the Rhode Island Supreme Court and noted Abraham Lincoln scholar, delivering the address. Judy Mills Reimer, of the college board of trustees and former general secretary of the Church of the Brethren General Board, will deliver the baccalaureate message.
- Elizabethtown (Pa.) College holds commencement at 11 a.m. on May 17 with Art Levine, president of the Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation, giving the address.
- Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa., holds commencement at 10 a.m. on May 10, with speaker Michael Klag, a Juniata graduate and dean of Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health.
- Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind., holds commencement activities on May 18 beginning with a baccalaureate service at 11 a.m. with college president Jo Young Switzer speaking, and commencement at 2:30 p.m.
- McPherson (Kan.) College holds its commencement ceremony in conjunction with an Alumni Weekend May 23-25. The commencement ceremony is at 2 p.m. on May 25.
- University of La Verne (Calif.) holds a commencement ceremony for each college. The College of Law commencement is May 18 at 4 p.m. The College of Arts and Sciences commencement is May 23 at 6 p.m. in Ortmayer Stadium, with keynote speaker Robert Neher, division chair for the Natural Science Division, who in his 50th year as a faculty member. The College of Business and Public Management commencement is May 24 at 9:30 a.m. at Ortmayer Stadium. The Doctoral Program in Organizational Leadership commencement is May 24 at 11:30 a.m. at the Sheraton Fairplex in Pomona. The College of Education and Organizational Leadership ceremony is May 24 at 4 p.m. at Ortmayer Stadium.
- Bridgewater (Va.) College commencement will be at 2 p.m. on May 11, with Frank J. Williams, chief justice of the Rhode Island Supreme Court and noted Abraham Lincoln scholar, delivering the address. Judy Mills Reimer, of the college board of trustees and former general secretary of the Church of the Brethren General Board, will deliver the baccalaureate message.
Darryl Deardorff retires as chief financial officer for BBT.
Darryl Deardorff has announced his retirement as chief financial officer/treasurer of the board for Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT) as of Sept. 30.
Deardorff began as director of investments for BBT in Jan. 1997, and in June of that year took on additional assignments as interim director of information systems and services, and consultant to the treasurer and the Brethren Foundation director. In Jan. 1998, Deardorff was named chief financial officer. His work has included supervising financial operations and management, and investments, and supervising financial services planning and program development. In addition, he also maintains administrative oversight of the Church of the Brethren Credit Union.
Prior to coming to BBT, Darryl was the treasurer for the Church of the Brethren General Board, from 1987 through mid-1994. While serving the General Board, he was instrumental in the Church of the Brethren being ranked number one in good financial management practices among denominations nationwide, according to a 1993 survey by Indiana State University. In other previous work, he directed his own business- consulting and accounting firm in Dayton, Ohio.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline Extra
Darryl Deardorff has announced his retirement as chief financial officer/treasurer of the board for Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT) as of Sept. 30.
Deardorff began as director of investments for BBT in Jan. 1997, and in June of that year took on additional assignments as interim director of information systems and services, and consultant to the treasurer and the Brethren Foundation director. In Jan. 1998, Deardorff was named chief financial officer. His work has included supervising financial operations and management, and investments, and supervising financial services planning and program development. In addition, he also maintains administrative oversight of the Church of the Brethren Credit Union.
Prior to coming to BBT, Darryl was the treasurer for the Church of the Brethren General Board, from 1987 through mid-1994. While serving the General Board, he was instrumental in the Church of the Brethren being ranked number one in good financial management practices among denominations nationwide, according to a 1993 survey by Indiana State University. In other previous work, he directed his own business- consulting and accounting firm in Dayton, Ohio.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline Extra
Bethany Seminary calls new professors, interim academic dean.
Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Ind., has called H. Kendall Rogers as professor of historical studies, beginning in the 2008-09 academic year. Rogers has served as a professor in the Religion and Philosophy Department at Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind., for 30 years. He is a Manchester College graduate and holds degrees from Oxford University in England and from Harvard University. Rogers also served as resident director for Brethren Colleges Abroad in Germany and China, as Fulbright Program Adviser for Manchester, and as coordinator for the Ministry Training Institute of Manchester College and the Church of the Brethren in Indiana. His publications and presentations include "The Church of the Brethren and Liberation Theology," "The War in Iraq: Theological Reflections," and "Engaging Students of Church History through Interviews of Retired Church Leaders."
Malinda Berry will join the Bethany faculty in the 2009-10 academic year as an instructor in theological studies and director of the master of arts program. Berry is a doctoral candidate at Union Theological Seminary in New York, and is currently visiting scholar in religion and women's studies at Goshen (Ind.) College. She is a graduate of Goshen and holds a master's degree in peace studies from Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary in Elkhart, Ind. She also served as interim minister at Manhattan (N.Y.) Mennonite Fellowship, and as associate director of Mennonite Voluntary Service. Her publications and presentations include "Women and Missio Dei," "A Theology of Wonder," and "Reading with Daughters of Sarah and Hagar: Authority, Scripture, and the Christian Life."
Richard B. Gardner will serve as interim academic dean during the 2008- 09 school year. Gardner is emeritus professor of New Testament studies and served as Bethany Seminary's academic dean from 1992-2003. He is a graduate of Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa., and holds degrees from Bethany and the University of Wrzburg in Germany. Gardner also served as parish ministries staff for the Church of the Brethren General Board. His publications and presentations include "Matthew" in the Believers Church Bible Commentary Series, "Vocation and Story: Biblical Reflections on Vocation," and "No Creed But the New Testament."
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline Extra
Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Ind., has called H. Kendall Rogers as professor of historical studies, beginning in the 2008-09 academic year. Rogers has served as a professor in the Religion and Philosophy Department at Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind., for 30 years. He is a Manchester College graduate and holds degrees from Oxford University in England and from Harvard University. Rogers also served as resident director for Brethren Colleges Abroad in Germany and China, as Fulbright Program Adviser for Manchester, and as coordinator for the Ministry Training Institute of Manchester College and the Church of the Brethren in Indiana. His publications and presentations include "The Church of the Brethren and Liberation Theology," "The War in Iraq: Theological Reflections," and "Engaging Students of Church History through Interviews of Retired Church Leaders."
Malinda Berry will join the Bethany faculty in the 2009-10 academic year as an instructor in theological studies and director of the master of arts program. Berry is a doctoral candidate at Union Theological Seminary in New York, and is currently visiting scholar in religion and women's studies at Goshen (Ind.) College. She is a graduate of Goshen and holds a master's degree in peace studies from Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary in Elkhart, Ind. She also served as interim minister at Manhattan (N.Y.) Mennonite Fellowship, and as associate director of Mennonite Voluntary Service. Her publications and presentations include "Women and Missio Dei," "A Theology of Wonder," and "Reading with Daughters of Sarah and Hagar: Authority, Scripture, and the Christian Life."
Richard B. Gardner will serve as interim academic dean during the 2008- 09 school year. Gardner is emeritus professor of New Testament studies and served as Bethany Seminary's academic dean from 1992-2003. He is a graduate of Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa., and holds degrees from Bethany and the University of Wrzburg in Germany. Gardner also served as parish ministries staff for the Church of the Brethren General Board. His publications and presentations include "Matthew" in the Believers Church Bible Commentary Series, "Vocation and Story: Biblical Reflections on Vocation," and "No Creed But the New Testament."
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline Extra
Annie Clark resigns from On Earth Peace.
On Earth Peace has announced the resignation of Annie Clark, coordinator of the Ministry of Reconciliation (MoR), effective July 30. Clark has led the reconciliation program for four years, since April 2004, and plans to return to fulltime classroom teaching in August.
Clark has served previously as a consultant with Goshen (Ind.) College, and has worked as an educator in the public schools and as mediation services coordinator with Education for Conflict Resolution, a mediation center in northern Indiana. She developed and administered a truancy mediation program and a peer mediation program in public schools, and has been a practitioner and mediation case manager.
She is a graduate of Indiana University at South Bend, and a member of Manchester Church of the Brethren in North Manchester, Ind.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline Extra
On Earth Peace has announced the resignation of Annie Clark, coordinator of the Ministry of Reconciliation (MoR), effective July 30. Clark has led the reconciliation program for four years, since April 2004, and plans to return to fulltime classroom teaching in August.
Clark has served previously as a consultant with Goshen (Ind.) College, and has worked as an educator in the public schools and as mediation services coordinator with Education for Conflict Resolution, a mediation center in northern Indiana. She developed and administered a truancy mediation program and a peer mediation program in public schools, and has been a practitioner and mediation case manager.
She is a graduate of Indiana University at South Bend, and a member of Manchester Church of the Brethren in North Manchester, Ind.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline Extra
Andrew Murray retires as director of Baker Institute.
Andrew Murray is retiring as director of the Elizabeth Evans Baker Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies at Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa. He also serves at Juniata as Elizabeth Evans Baker Professor of peace and conflict studies.
Murray came to Juniata in 1971 as a faculty member in the religion department and campus minister after serving Church of the Brethren pastorates in Virginia and Oregon. He was named college chaplain in 1986, a post he held until 1991.
He has been a leader in the international development of the field of peace studies. He founded the Juniata Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies in 1985, and has directed Juniata's peace and conflict studies program since 1977. He has led the Baker Institute, named for the John C. and Elizabeth Evans Baker family in 1986, since its beginning. Murray has consulted on curriculum and administrative issues in peace studies at more than 20 colleges and universities across the country. In 1988, he helped found the Peace Studies Association, and has been elected twice as chair of its board of directors.
In 1990, he was appointed to the United Nations/International Association of University Presidents Commission on Arms Control Education. As a member of the Commission, he began the International Seminar on Arms Control and Disarmament, sponsored jointly by Juniata College and the UN Center for Disarmament Affairs. The seminar attracted more than 50 professors from universities in Mexico, Central America, western and southern Africa, the Middle East and south Asia to Juniata's campus for arms control and disarmament curriculum training. He also served as a special consultant for a UN peace-building initiative in West Africa and worked with the government of Mali to develop a moratorium on small arms manufacture, import and export, and a national policy on civilian/military relations.
He holds degrees from Bridgewater (Va.) College and Bethany Theological Seminary. Juniata has honored him with the 1991 Beachley Award for Distinguished Academic Service. He also received honorary degrees from Manchester College and Bridgewater. Along with his wife, Terry, Murray also has maintained a music career and is well known in the Church of the Brethren for their albums including "Summertime Children" and "Goodbye, Still Night." The couple have performed more than 300 concerts in 20 states and Canada.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline Extra
Andrew Murray is retiring as director of the Elizabeth Evans Baker Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies at Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa. He also serves at Juniata as Elizabeth Evans Baker Professor of peace and conflict studies.
Murray came to Juniata in 1971 as a faculty member in the religion department and campus minister after serving Church of the Brethren pastorates in Virginia and Oregon. He was named college chaplain in 1986, a post he held until 1991.
He has been a leader in the international development of the field of peace studies. He founded the Juniata Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies in 1985, and has directed Juniata's peace and conflict studies program since 1977. He has led the Baker Institute, named for the John C. and Elizabeth Evans Baker family in 1986, since its beginning. Murray has consulted on curriculum and administrative issues in peace studies at more than 20 colleges and universities across the country. In 1988, he helped found the Peace Studies Association, and has been elected twice as chair of its board of directors.
In 1990, he was appointed to the United Nations/International Association of University Presidents Commission on Arms Control Education. As a member of the Commission, he began the International Seminar on Arms Control and Disarmament, sponsored jointly by Juniata College and the UN Center for Disarmament Affairs. The seminar attracted more than 50 professors from universities in Mexico, Central America, western and southern Africa, the Middle East and south Asia to Juniata's campus for arms control and disarmament curriculum training. He also served as a special consultant for a UN peace-building initiative in West Africa and worked with the government of Mali to develop a moratorium on small arms manufacture, import and export, and a national policy on civilian/military relations.
He holds degrees from Bridgewater (Va.) College and Bethany Theological Seminary. Juniata has honored him with the 1991 Beachley Award for Distinguished Academic Service. He also received honorary degrees from Manchester College and Bridgewater. Along with his wife, Terry, Murray also has maintained a music career and is well known in the Church of the Brethren for their albums including "Summertime Children" and "Goodbye, Still Night." The couple have performed more than 300 concerts in 20 states and Canada.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline Extra
Ed Woolf begins in new staff position with the General Board.
Ed Woolf has moved into a staff position with the Church of the Brethren General Board as manager of Office and Gift Operations in the office of the treasurer and the department of Centralized Resources. He works at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill.
Woolf has worked for the General Board for 10 years, as a gift management/centralized resources assistant since May 1998. Previously he served as an intern in the General Board's Human Resources Office.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline Extra
Ed Woolf has moved into a staff position with the Church of the Brethren General Board as manager of Office and Gift Operations in the office of the treasurer and the department of Centralized Resources. He works at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill.
Woolf has worked for the General Board for 10 years, as a gift management/centralized resources assistant since May 1998. Previously he served as an intern in the General Board's Human Resources Office.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline Extra
BBT announces staff changes in finance, information services.
Laura Nedli, director of finance and information services for the Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT), has resigned her position as of July 31. She has ceased active duties at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., as of April 30.
Bob Mosley has been named director of financial operations for BBT, effective May 1. He was hired by BBT as staff accountant on Sept. 14, 1998, and was promoted to senior accountant on July 2, 2000. In October 2005, he was named manager of accounting and in his roles he has provided excellent service in financial operations.
Nevin Dulabaum will become director of information services while continuing to direct the communications department of BBT. This additional responsibility became effective May 1. Dulabaum's new title is director of communications and information services.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline Extra
Laura Nedli, director of finance and information services for the Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT), has resigned her position as of July 31. She has ceased active duties at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., as of April 30.
Bob Mosley has been named director of financial operations for BBT, effective May 1. He was hired by BBT as staff accountant on Sept. 14, 1998, and was promoted to senior accountant on July 2, 2000. In October 2005, he was named manager of accounting and in his roles he has provided excellent service in financial operations.
Nevin Dulabaum will become director of information services while continuing to direct the communications department of BBT. This additional responsibility became effective May 1. Dulabaum's new title is director of communications and information services.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline Extra
Patrice Nightingale begins as manager of publications for BBT.
Patrice Nightingale has been hired to fill the Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT) manager of publications position. In this role, she will serve as senior writer and copy editor and will provide oversight of BBT publications including newsletters, press releases, the website, and other special projects. She began work for BBT on May 5.
Nightingale has worked in the publications field in various capacities since 1973. Most recently, she worked for Examiner Publications in Bartlet, Ill., where she was a production manager for eight weekly newspapers.
She is a graduate of Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind., with a degree in psychology and sociology. She is a member of Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin, Ill.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline Extra
Patrice Nightingale has been hired to fill the Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT) manager of publications position. In this role, she will serve as senior writer and copy editor and will provide oversight of BBT publications including newsletters, press releases, the website, and other special projects. She began work for BBT on May 5.
Nightingale has worked in the publications field in various capacities since 1973. Most recently, she worked for Examiner Publications in Bartlet, Ill., where she was a production manager for eight weekly newspapers.
She is a graduate of Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind., with a degree in psychology and sociology. She is a member of Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin, Ill.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline Extra
More personnel notices, job openings.
- Cindy Smith, building services coordinator/trainer at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., has ended her employment with the General Board effective April 24. She served in this capacity for almost 10 years, having begun work for the General Board in August 1998. Her responsibilities included serving as an assistant to the Buildings and Grounds Office in Elgin, orienting new employees to the building and telephone system, and helping out with logistics and hospitality for meetings held at the Elgin facility, among other duties.
- Kirk Carpenter will begin May 12 as customer service inventory specialist for Brethren Press, working at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill. He recently completed a bachelor of arts degree in biblical and theological Studies from North Park University in Chicago. During his time at North Park, he has been involved in a variety of campus ministries. His five years of work experience include involvement with customer service and inventory efficiencies. Other experiences include two summer mission tours in Japan, advocacy and fundraising work for International Justice Mission, and extensive travel abroad. He is originally from Kent, Wash.
- Brethren Benefit Trust is thanking editorial assistant Jamie Denlinger for her term of service with BBT. She has assisted the communications department staff during an internship, followed by a temporary assignment as editorial assistant. She concluded her role with BBT on May 4.
- The Church of the Brethren's Pacific Southwest District seeks a district executive minister. The position is fulltime and available immediately. The district is geographically, ethnically, and theologically diverse, with 28 congregations in California and Arizona as well as five church starts, three of which are Spanish speaking, and one fellowship. The district office is in La Verne, Calif. The district staff includes an intercultural director, intergenerational director, a director for the district's Center for Brethren Studies, an administrative assistant, a secretary, and a financial and property manager. Responsibilities include serving as executive of the district, strengthening a diverse, collaborative team environment; collaborating with the district board in shaping the vision for the district, and articulating and promoting that vision; strengthening relationships with pastors and congregations; facilitating pastoral placement; administering the work of the District Board. Qualifications include being passionate about the potential of the Church of the Brethren and open to the leading of the Holy Spirit; pastoral and prophetic gifts; deep faith and prayer life; spiritual maturity and Christian integrity; being a student of the scriptures with a good grasp of theology and Brethren history; staff and team management skills; flexibility in working with staff, volunteer, pastoral, and lay leadership; experience in dealing with the dynamics of growth and change; being a good communicator with the ability to listen and build relationships across cultural, theological, and geographical diversity; buen comunicador y con habilidad para escuchar y crear puentes en medio de la diversidad cultural, teol?gica y geogr fica. A master's degree is preferred, with English/Spanish bilingual abilities advantageous. If relocation is required, the District Board is willing to negotiate moving or housing costs. Send a letter of interest and resume via e-mail to DistrictMinistries_gb@brethren.org. Applicants are requested to contact three or four people to provide a letter of reference. Upon receipt of a resume, a Candidate Profile must be completed and returned before the application is complete. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
- On Earth Peace seeks a Program Coordinator to oversee its Ministry of Reconciliation program. Responsibilities include planning and coordinating educational events and programs, coordinating reconciliation services, providing educational resources, developing leaders for reconciling ministries, and other responsibilities. Requires commitment to Christian peacemaking, experience with coordinating service or educational programs, strong communication skills and organizational ability, and self-motivation. More information, including complete position description and announcement, is available at www.OnEarthPeace.org under the "Opportunities" tab, or from Darlene Johnson, office manager, at djohnson_oepa@brethren.org or 410-635- 8704. To apply, send letter and resume with 3-4 references to Bob Gross, executive director, at bgross@igc.org. Applications will be reviewed beginning June 25, continuing until position is filled. Position available July 21
300th Anniversary update: Churches celebrate Tercentennial with Love Feast.
"Do this in remembrance of me." Robert Sell used these words to remind a group of Brethren celebrating the Tercentennial of the denomination that their Love Feast "is one of the most important acts identified with the Church of the Brethren."
Sell, this year's moderator of Middle Pennsylvania District, was welcoming members of Area 3 congregations, which constitutes those within and around Bedford County. The event was held on Sunday, April 20, at 6 p.m., at the Barn at Friendship Village in Bedford.
After the manner of the Old Brethren, four Brethren were seated at the front to share their understanding of scripture. Instead of choosing four elders, the planners chose four of the younger leaders of the churches.
The service opened with Morgan Knepp's explanation of the preparation for Love Feast. Noting that things have changed over the years, she said, "Sometimes it's hard to find an evening free to spend with the family. Imagine how hard it would be to find time for the Annual Deacon Visit." Knepp, from the Everett congregation, described the practice of the 19th century, when teams of deacons would meet with every member prior to the Love Feast to see if they were still in accord with Brethren doctrine, and if there was harmony among all members. If there was not, they would attempt to achieve reconciliation. If there was no reconciliation, those individuals were excluded.
"Nowadays," Knepp said, "everyone is welcome. Differences are set aside. We are all sinners." Adding that whereas in previous times, Love Feast was a three-day event, now it takes place within a few hours, she said, "Times have changed, for better or for worse, but that is what we have now."
Brady Plummer from the Bedford congregation introduced footwashing by reading a portion of John 13. "The symbols of the church are not clearly recognized. This act is overlooked or disregarded. It's important. It has always been known in our church." The Brethren instituted footwashing, he said, because in their reading of the Bible, "they connected the dots.... We look to footwashing to point to the purpose of the life of Jesus, a call to be servant. It is as important today as it was 2,000 years ago."
Staci Manges of Snake Spring Valley Church of the Brethren introduced the Fellowship Meal. She reminded worshipers that the purpose of food is both to nurture and nourish. The early Christians "shared more than just food. They shared all things in common." The Fellowship Meal, she said, is not just a reenactment of the past, but points towards the table of the Lamb as it will be experienced in heaven, its "perfect fulfillment. Even strangers will be welcome at that great banquet."
Jerome Bollman, from the Cherry Lane congregation, closed the service by speaking about the bread and cup. "It is the high point," he said, pointing to "the sacrifice that atoned for our sins. Brethren believe that Christ is present in the church body. The bread and cup as practiced in the Church of the Brethren is not a sacrament, but an ordinance or commandment," and points to the fact that "God is with us in all of life."
Bollman chronicled one of the great changes in the way communion is practiced among the Brethren, the 1910 decision that allowed women to break bread among themselves as did the men, without a church elder to break the bread for them. This break through was the result of a nearly half-century struggle by Julia Gilbert. He also spoke about the shift in the 19th century from wine to grape juice.
The three-part Love Feast, which included footwashing, the Fellowship Meal, along with the bread and cup, was organized by Eleanor Fix, pastor of Cherry Lane Church of the Brethren; Marilyn Lerch, pastor of Bedford Church of the Brethren; Janet Sell, pastor of Snake Spring Valley Church of the Brethren; and Beverly Swindell, assistant pastor of Everett Church of the Brethren.
The Fellowship Meal consisted of beef and broth poured over bread in special 300th Anniversary mugs, which were kept by worshipers.
The Barn at Friendship Village was made available to the Area 3 churches by Ken and Darla Rhodes. Leah Pepple led the singing, which was a cappella after the manner of the Old Brethren. Women and men sat at different sides of the aisle. A pounding rain only seemed to enhance the service.
--Frank Ramirez is pastor of Everett (Pa.) Church of the Brethren. This article was originally written as a press release for local media in the Everett area.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline Extra
"Do this in remembrance of me." Robert Sell used these words to remind a group of Brethren celebrating the Tercentennial of the denomination that their Love Feast "is one of the most important acts identified with the Church of the Brethren."
Sell, this year's moderator of Middle Pennsylvania District, was welcoming members of Area 3 congregations, which constitutes those within and around Bedford County. The event was held on Sunday, April 20, at 6 p.m., at the Barn at Friendship Village in Bedford.
After the manner of the Old Brethren, four Brethren were seated at the front to share their understanding of scripture. Instead of choosing four elders, the planners chose four of the younger leaders of the churches.
The service opened with Morgan Knepp's explanation of the preparation for Love Feast. Noting that things have changed over the years, she said, "Sometimes it's hard to find an evening free to spend with the family. Imagine how hard it would be to find time for the Annual Deacon Visit." Knepp, from the Everett congregation, described the practice of the 19th century, when teams of deacons would meet with every member prior to the Love Feast to see if they were still in accord with Brethren doctrine, and if there was harmony among all members. If there was not, they would attempt to achieve reconciliation. If there was no reconciliation, those individuals were excluded.
"Nowadays," Knepp said, "everyone is welcome. Differences are set aside. We are all sinners." Adding that whereas in previous times, Love Feast was a three-day event, now it takes place within a few hours, she said, "Times have changed, for better or for worse, but that is what we have now."
Brady Plummer from the Bedford congregation introduced footwashing by reading a portion of John 13. "The symbols of the church are not clearly recognized. This act is overlooked or disregarded. It's important. It has always been known in our church." The Brethren instituted footwashing, he said, because in their reading of the Bible, "they connected the dots.... We look to footwashing to point to the purpose of the life of Jesus, a call to be servant. It is as important today as it was 2,000 years ago."
Staci Manges of Snake Spring Valley Church of the Brethren introduced the Fellowship Meal. She reminded worshipers that the purpose of food is both to nurture and nourish. The early Christians "shared more than just food. They shared all things in common." The Fellowship Meal, she said, is not just a reenactment of the past, but points towards the table of the Lamb as it will be experienced in heaven, its "perfect fulfillment. Even strangers will be welcome at that great banquet."
Jerome Bollman, from the Cherry Lane congregation, closed the service by speaking about the bread and cup. "It is the high point," he said, pointing to "the sacrifice that atoned for our sins. Brethren believe that Christ is present in the church body. The bread and cup as practiced in the Church of the Brethren is not a sacrament, but an ordinance or commandment," and points to the fact that "God is with us in all of life."
Bollman chronicled one of the great changes in the way communion is practiced among the Brethren, the 1910 decision that allowed women to break bread among themselves as did the men, without a church elder to break the bread for them. This break through was the result of a nearly half-century struggle by Julia Gilbert. He also spoke about the shift in the 19th century from wine to grape juice.
The three-part Love Feast, which included footwashing, the Fellowship Meal, along with the bread and cup, was organized by Eleanor Fix, pastor of Cherry Lane Church of the Brethren; Marilyn Lerch, pastor of Bedford Church of the Brethren; Janet Sell, pastor of Snake Spring Valley Church of the Brethren; and Beverly Swindell, assistant pastor of Everett Church of the Brethren.
The Fellowship Meal consisted of beef and broth poured over bread in special 300th Anniversary mugs, which were kept by worshipers.
The Barn at Friendship Village was made available to the Area 3 churches by Ken and Darla Rhodes. Leah Pepple led the singing, which was a cappella after the manner of the Old Brethren. Women and men sat at different sides of the aisle. A pounding rain only seemed to enhance the service.
--Frank Ramirez is pastor of Everett (Pa.) Church of the Brethren. This article was originally written as a press release for local media in the Everett area.
Source: 5/07/2008 Newsline Extra
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)