Rapid response team helps families affected by Metrolink crash.
When Gloria Cooper, a volunteer with Children’s Disaster Services who lives in Pasadena, Calif., heard about the train crash, she immediately called Laura Palmer, coordinator of the program’s Rapid Response Team in southern California.
According to news reports, 25 people died and 135 were injured in the train crash on Friday, Sept. 12, in which a Metrolink commuter train collided with a Union Pacific freight train in Chatsworth, Calif.
The two women quickly realized that children would be accompanying their families to the Reunification Center that had been set up at Chatsworth High School for those with loved ones in the train. The children would need a child-friendly place to be while family members waited anxiously for news.
After trying to reach the American Red Cross without success, Cooper went to the Reunification Center in person to offer services for the children. She arrived at 7:30 a.m. Saturday morning, and Children’s Disaster Services was invited to set up a center for the children.
"The night shift nurse (at the center) was full of praise for our program," Cooper said in her report. The nurse had seen Children’s Disaster Services volunteers in action at shelters following an apartment fire in East Los Angeles, and told a gathered group of American Red Cross staff how valuable and needed the childcare was, Cooper said. The American Red Cross shift managers also knew of the program. "We had worked with these staff members on the Alaska Air responses," Cooper said.
In the meantime, Palmer put a Children’s Disaster Services volunteer team on alert and they were ready to respond. By 10:30 a.m. Saturday, three additional volunteers were at the Reunification Center ready to work with children--Mary Kay Ogden, Sharon Sparks, and Rhoda Lau.
The volunteers cared for three young children in the childcare area that they set up in the center, and played ball with two older boys who were outside the childcare area. The team also encouraged the turning down of loud television announcements about the disaster, which were in hearing range of the children.
"There were some very negative press conferences regarding the incident being broadcast," Cooper reported. "Many of the people waiting at this time after the event hadn’t quite cognated the most likely information that they would receive, that their loved one was dead. In our first ARC staff meeting this loud TV coverage was identified as not being helpful.... They subsequently turned the TV down very low and only turned it up slightly for Metro debriefings."
In the afternoon, Willard and Letha Ressler were the lead caregivers, and the team was fortunate to have Spanish-speaking volunteer Rachael Contrares present as well. Contreras was able to speak with one Hispanic family that had been waiting a particularly long time. "Rachael's ability to be present to this family was sensitive and supportive," Cooper said. Later, team members Laura Palmer and Sharon Gilbert arrived to lend a hand.
The Reunification Center closed at 6 p.m. on Saturday, and the Children’s Disaster Services team found a place to debrief. Gilbert is a clinician on the program’s Critical Response Team that responds to air disasters, and conducted the debriefing. She helped volunteers process and understand their reactions to the disaster and to the work they did with children affected by it.
"Few people realize how critical it is to have this support, and we were fortunate to have Gilbert to guide the volunteers through it," said Judy Bezon, director of Children’s Disaster Ministries.
Source: 9/17/2008 Newsline Extra
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Material Resources program ships supplies to hurricane survivors.
"In response to Hurricane Gustav we loaded a trailer Friday night destined for Hammond, La.," reported Loretta Wolf, director of the Church of the Brethren’s Material Resources program. "The trailer started in Harrisburg, Pa., picking up 1,008 Emergency Clean-Up Bucket Kits and stopping in New Windsor to add 624 more clean-up kits."
The Material Resources program is a Church of the Brethren ministry located at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. The Material Resources staff process, warehouse, and distribute disaster relief materials on behalf of a variety of ecumenical partners including Church World Service (CWS).
The shipment of Emergency Clean-Up Bucket Kits responding to Gustav "used all the kits we have on hand," Wolf said. She encourages congregations, groups, and individuals to donate the urgently needed CWS Emergency Clean-Up Bucket Kits. Information is online at www.churchworldservice.org/news/archives/2008/06/906.html for assembling the kits. The buckets provide cleaning supplies for people to clean up their homes following floods and other disasters.
In other shipments related to the recent hurricanes, CWS Hygiene Kits were shipped to a number of locations in Louisiana in response to Gustav, including Donaldsonville, Point Couppee, Baton Rouge, Denham Springs, Pierre Part, and Thibodoux. "One small request was received from Nacogdoches, Texas, to send two bales of blankets and one carton of Hygiene Kits related to Hurricane Ike," Wolf said. "It is likely additional shipments will go out this week once needs are assessed."
Other recent Material Resources work has included a shipment on behalf of Lutheran World Relief (LWR) to Azerbaijan; an LWR shipment to Tanzania; a 40-foot container of supplies to Georgia as a cooperative effort of LWR and International Orthodox Christian Charities; a shipment to Jordan on behalf of International Orthodox Christian Charities; a shipment on behalf of IMA World Health to Armenia; domestic CWS shipments to respond to flooding in Iowa, Wisconsin, Texas, and Alaska; CWS supplies sent to New York for use with migrant farm workers; and CWS supplies for homeless shelters in Minnesota and New Mexico.
Source: 9/17/2008 Newsline Extra
"In response to Hurricane Gustav we loaded a trailer Friday night destined for Hammond, La.," reported Loretta Wolf, director of the Church of the Brethren’s Material Resources program. "The trailer started in Harrisburg, Pa., picking up 1,008 Emergency Clean-Up Bucket Kits and stopping in New Windsor to add 624 more clean-up kits."
The Material Resources program is a Church of the Brethren ministry located at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. The Material Resources staff process, warehouse, and distribute disaster relief materials on behalf of a variety of ecumenical partners including Church World Service (CWS).
The shipment of Emergency Clean-Up Bucket Kits responding to Gustav "used all the kits we have on hand," Wolf said. She encourages congregations, groups, and individuals to donate the urgently needed CWS Emergency Clean-Up Bucket Kits. Information is online at www.churchworldservice.org/news/archives/2008/06/906.html for assembling the kits. The buckets provide cleaning supplies for people to clean up their homes following floods and other disasters.
In other shipments related to the recent hurricanes, CWS Hygiene Kits were shipped to a number of locations in Louisiana in response to Gustav, including Donaldsonville, Point Couppee, Baton Rouge, Denham Springs, Pierre Part, and Thibodoux. "One small request was received from Nacogdoches, Texas, to send two bales of blankets and one carton of Hygiene Kits related to Hurricane Ike," Wolf said. "It is likely additional shipments will go out this week once needs are assessed."
Other recent Material Resources work has included a shipment on behalf of Lutheran World Relief (LWR) to Azerbaijan; an LWR shipment to Tanzania; a 40-foot container of supplies to Georgia as a cooperative effort of LWR and International Orthodox Christian Charities; a shipment to Jordan on behalf of International Orthodox Christian Charities; a shipment on behalf of IMA World Health to Armenia; domestic CWS shipments to respond to flooding in Iowa, Wisconsin, Texas, and Alaska; CWS supplies sent to New York for use with migrant farm workers; and CWS supplies for homeless shelters in Minnesota and New Mexico.
Source: 9/17/2008 Newsline Extra
Church World Service aids hurricane survivors in Haiti.
As a powerful Hurricane Ike roils toward the Texas coast after hitting Cuba, Haiti, and other parts of the Caribbean, humanitarian agency Church World Service (CWS) announced it had already sent an initial $10,000 rapid response grant to its partner in Haiti. The partner agency is SKDE (Sant Kretyen Pou Developman Entegre), the Christian Center for Integrated Development.
CWS also announced that it is expediting a shipment of CWS Blankets, Baby Kits, and Hygiene Kits to be distributed in Haiti by humanitarian agency partners who are members of Action by Churches Together.
Four storms have lashed Haiti in recent weeks, resulting in what CWS partner Christian Aid described as possibly "lasting damage to Haiti's 'rice bowl,'" according to the CWS release. The "rice bowl" is a farming area whose revival is key to Haiti's struggle in overcoming its current food crisis. CWS and Christian Aid said it is expected that as many as 4 million Haitians will be in dire need of food in the midst of a still-active hurricane season. Haiti hasn't experienced hurricane damage of this magnitude since 2004, when Hurricane Jeanne essentially destroyed Gonaives and killed more than 3,000 people, the release said.
From Cuba, CWS received an initial material aid request from its church partner Iglesia Bando Evangelica Gedeon. CWS Emergency Response director Donna Derr said the agency is prepared and can respond to Cuban survivors' needs, through the material resource provision of the license CWS holds from the US Department of State.
Other CWS partners and colleagues in the Dominican Republic, and the Turks and Caicos Islands have managed to deliver some reports, but information has been limited, CWS said. The Cuban church partner said the damage from Hurricane Gustav had made the situation in the country "very difficult," and that Hurricane Ike heaped insult on injury. In eastern Cuba, a network of volunteers from Cuban churches who are trained in psychosocial support and counseling are working with affected families and communities.
"The combined devastation from these storms is stunning," said Derr.
The Church of the Brethren contributes to Church World Service disaster relief through grants from the denomination’s Emergency Disaster Fund. Send donations to the Emergency Disaster Fund, Church of the Brethren, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120.
Source: 9/17/2008 Newsline Extra
As a powerful Hurricane Ike roils toward the Texas coast after hitting Cuba, Haiti, and other parts of the Caribbean, humanitarian agency Church World Service (CWS) announced it had already sent an initial $10,000 rapid response grant to its partner in Haiti. The partner agency is SKDE (Sant Kretyen Pou Developman Entegre), the Christian Center for Integrated Development.
CWS also announced that it is expediting a shipment of CWS Blankets, Baby Kits, and Hygiene Kits to be distributed in Haiti by humanitarian agency partners who are members of Action by Churches Together.
Four storms have lashed Haiti in recent weeks, resulting in what CWS partner Christian Aid described as possibly "lasting damage to Haiti's 'rice bowl,'" according to the CWS release. The "rice bowl" is a farming area whose revival is key to Haiti's struggle in overcoming its current food crisis. CWS and Christian Aid said it is expected that as many as 4 million Haitians will be in dire need of food in the midst of a still-active hurricane season. Haiti hasn't experienced hurricane damage of this magnitude since 2004, when Hurricane Jeanne essentially destroyed Gonaives and killed more than 3,000 people, the release said.
From Cuba, CWS received an initial material aid request from its church partner Iglesia Bando Evangelica Gedeon. CWS Emergency Response director Donna Derr said the agency is prepared and can respond to Cuban survivors' needs, through the material resource provision of the license CWS holds from the US Department of State.
Other CWS partners and colleagues in the Dominican Republic, and the Turks and Caicos Islands have managed to deliver some reports, but information has been limited, CWS said. The Cuban church partner said the damage from Hurricane Gustav had made the situation in the country "very difficult," and that Hurricane Ike heaped insult on injury. In eastern Cuba, a network of volunteers from Cuban churches who are trained in psychosocial support and counseling are working with affected families and communities.
"The combined devastation from these storms is stunning," said Derr.
The Church of the Brethren contributes to Church World Service disaster relief through grants from the denomination’s Emergency Disaster Fund. Send donations to the Emergency Disaster Fund, Church of the Brethren, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120.
Source: 9/17/2008 Newsline Extra
How Brethren can help with the disaster response effort.
Brethren Disaster Ministries staff have suggested the following ways church members and congregations can help in the response to the recent hurricanes and other disasters:
Brethren Disaster Ministries staff have suggested the following ways church members and congregations can help in the response to the recent hurricanes and other disasters:
- Support families who have had to flee their homes with prayer, and pray also for volunteers and staff of Children’s Disaster Services. Pray for those who are living in shelters in the Houston and Galveston areas of Texas, and for the volunteers who are caring for children there.
- Contribute to the cost of placing volunteers in the Hurricane Ike shelters, through donations to the Emergency Disaster Fund. The fund is a ministry of the Church of the Brethren. Send donations to Emergency Disaster Fund, Church of the Brethren, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120.
- Contribute to the Church of the Brethren support for Church World Service disaster relief efforts, which takes place through grants from the denomination’s Emergency Disaster Fund. Send donations to the Emergency Disaster Fund, Church of the Brethren, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120.
- Donate Emergency Clean-Up Bucket Kits, which are warehoused at the Brethren Service Center on behalf of Church World Service. Go to www.churchworldservice.org/kits/cleanup-kits.html for a contents list and shipping address.
- Attend a training workshop to become a Children’s Disaster Services volunteer. This fall, Level I Training Workshops are offered on Oct. 3-4 at the American Red Cross in Everett, Wash., and in Tacoma, Wash.; and on Oct. 10-11 at the Holiday Inn in Evansville, Ind. Go to www.childrendisasterservices.org for more information.
Credits
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren, cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. Judy Bezon, Roy Winter, and Loretta Wolf contributed to this report.
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren, cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. Judy Bezon, Roy Winter, and Loretta Wolf contributed to this report.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Emergency Clean-Up Bucket kits are urgently needed.
An urgent appeal for Emergency Clean-Up Bucket kits has been issued by Church World Service (CWS) following the recent onslaught of coastal storms and flooding, and in anticipation of needs after the 20-foot storm surge from Hurricane Ike hits the Texas coastline this weekend.
Staff of Brethren Disaster Ministries and Children's Disaster Services are monitoring needs related to Hurricane Ike as it approaches Texas. The American Red Cross has requested Children's Disaster Services to prepare 10 teams of volunteers for possible deployment on Monday, following the storm.
CWS disaster relief kits are processed, warehoused, and shipped from the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. "Church World Service has allocated all the buckets we had in the warehouse," said Loretta Wolf, director of the Church of the Brethren's Material Resources program. "We're down to a zero level and they don't have enough."
The buckets are kits that may be assembled by congregations, other groups, and individuals, and donated to the disaster clean-up effort. In the last 30 days, CWS also has provided dozens of shipments of blankets, Hygiene Kits, and Baby Kits, as well as Emergency Clean-Up Buckets. CWS kits have helped flood survivors in Iowa, displaced persons from the Russia-Georgia conflict, and those affected by Hurricanes Hannah, Gustav, and Ike. These items provide immediate, important relief to those coping with disaster. Many disaster-affected individuals rely on CWS resources after being forced from their homes with little more than the clothes on their backs.
Go to www.churchworldservice.org/kits/cleanup-kits.html for information about how to assemble Emergency Clean-Up Bucket kits.
Source: 9/12/2008 Newsline Extra
An urgent appeal for Emergency Clean-Up Bucket kits has been issued by Church World Service (CWS) following the recent onslaught of coastal storms and flooding, and in anticipation of needs after the 20-foot storm surge from Hurricane Ike hits the Texas coastline this weekend.
Staff of Brethren Disaster Ministries and Children's Disaster Services are monitoring needs related to Hurricane Ike as it approaches Texas. The American Red Cross has requested Children's Disaster Services to prepare 10 teams of volunteers for possible deployment on Monday, following the storm.
CWS disaster relief kits are processed, warehoused, and shipped from the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. "Church World Service has allocated all the buckets we had in the warehouse," said Loretta Wolf, director of the Church of the Brethren's Material Resources program. "We're down to a zero level and they don't have enough."
The buckets are kits that may be assembled by congregations, other groups, and individuals, and donated to the disaster clean-up effort. In the last 30 days, CWS also has provided dozens of shipments of blankets, Hygiene Kits, and Baby Kits, as well as Emergency Clean-Up Buckets. CWS kits have helped flood survivors in Iowa, displaced persons from the Russia-Georgia conflict, and those affected by Hurricanes Hannah, Gustav, and Ike. These items provide immediate, important relief to those coping with disaster. Many disaster-affected individuals rely on CWS resources after being forced from their homes with little more than the clothes on their backs.
Go to www.churchworldservice.org/kits/cleanup-kits.html for information about how to assemble Emergency Clean-Up Bucket kits.
Source: 9/12/2008 Newsline Extra
'Origin of the Schwarzenau Brethren' is offered in English translation.
Marcus Meier's new book, "The Origin of the Schwarzenau Brethren," has been published in English as part of the Brethren Encyclopedia's Monograph Series. The book was translated from German by Dennis Slabaugh.
Meier was the keynote speaker for the international celebration of the 300th Anniversary. He is a research fellow at the Institute for European History in Mainz, and a German academic authority on the early Brethren. The book represents a continuing development in Brethren historical studies to seek original European sources of information, according to an announcement by William R. Eberly in the Brethren Encyclopedia newsletter.
"Brethren historiography has gone through several phases," Eberly wrote. "First, M.G. Brumbaugh and other authors reconstructed Brethren history primarily from collected documents available in America.... Donald and Hedda Durnbaugh did extensive research in archives in Germany and uncovered much new information. The first Source Book, 'European Origins of the Brethren,' was ready for the 250th Anniversary in 1958. Now, 50 years later, Marcus Meier has written about still new information on the Schwarzenau Brethren.... It is a very important book for a new era of Brethren historiography."
Order the 236-page volume through Brethren Press for $40 plus shipping and handling, call 800-441-3712.
Source: 9/12/2008 Newsline Extra
Marcus Meier's new book, "The Origin of the Schwarzenau Brethren," has been published in English as part of the Brethren Encyclopedia's Monograph Series. The book was translated from German by Dennis Slabaugh.
Meier was the keynote speaker for the international celebration of the 300th Anniversary. He is a research fellow at the Institute for European History in Mainz, and a German academic authority on the early Brethren. The book represents a continuing development in Brethren historical studies to seek original European sources of information, according to an announcement by William R. Eberly in the Brethren Encyclopedia newsletter.
"Brethren historiography has gone through several phases," Eberly wrote. "First, M.G. Brumbaugh and other authors reconstructed Brethren history primarily from collected documents available in America.... Donald and Hedda Durnbaugh did extensive research in archives in Germany and uncovered much new information. The first Source Book, 'European Origins of the Brethren,' was ready for the 250th Anniversary in 1958. Now, 50 years later, Marcus Meier has written about still new information on the Schwarzenau Brethren.... It is a very important book for a new era of Brethren historiography."
Order the 236-page volume through Brethren Press for $40 plus shipping and handling, call 800-441-3712.
Source: 9/12/2008 Newsline Extra
Advent devotional booklet is written by Kenneth Gibble.
The annual Advent devotional booklet for the Church of the Brethren this year is written by Kenneth L. Gibble. The booklet titled "With Heart and Soul and Voice" offers daily devotional readings and prayers for Advent through Epiphany, and is published by Brethren Press. It is designed for congregations to offer to each family or member during the Advent season.
"The carols and stories we hear during the Christmas season focus our ears--and hearts--on the timeless message of God's love made known in Jesus Christ," said a description from Brethren Press. "Ken Gibble encourages us to listen for this familiar refrain and respond by joining our own voices in praise and thanksgiving to God."
The devotional costs $2.75 per copy, plus shipping and handling. Orders placed before Oct. 1 will receive a pre-production price of $1.75 per copy, plus shipping and handling. Orders received by Oct. 31 will be shipped by Nov. 7. Call 800-441-3712.
Source: 9/12/2008 Newsline Extra
The annual Advent devotional booklet for the Church of the Brethren this year is written by Kenneth L. Gibble. The booklet titled "With Heart and Soul and Voice" offers daily devotional readings and prayers for Advent through Epiphany, and is published by Brethren Press. It is designed for congregations to offer to each family or member during the Advent season.
"The carols and stories we hear during the Christmas season focus our ears--and hearts--on the timeless message of God's love made known in Jesus Christ," said a description from Brethren Press. "Ken Gibble encourages us to listen for this familiar refrain and respond by joining our own voices in praise and thanksgiving to God."
The devotional costs $2.75 per copy, plus shipping and handling. Orders placed before Oct. 1 will receive a pre-production price of $1.75 per copy, plus shipping and handling. Orders received by Oct. 31 will be shipped by Nov. 7. Call 800-441-3712.
Source: 9/12/2008 Newsline Extra
Report of Together conversations available as a study guide.
A report of the Church of the Brethren's Together conversations is now available as a booklet and study guide from Brethren Press. "What We Said, What We Heard, and Why It Matters" is written by Steve Clapp.
The book reports results of Together: Conversations on Being the Church, a national emphasis in the Church of the Brethren to encourage people to think and talk about what it means to be the church. Clapp reviews the process of the Together conversations and their intent, and then offers a series of observations on what the participants talked about and heard from each other. The 43-page paperback book also includes a discussion guide with questions to continue the conversation.
Order "What We Said, What We Heard, and Why It Matters" from Brethren Press for $3.95 per copy, plus shipping and handling, call 800-441-3712.
Source: 9/12/2008 Newsline Extra
A report of the Church of the Brethren's Together conversations is now available as a booklet and study guide from Brethren Press. "What We Said, What We Heard, and Why It Matters" is written by Steve Clapp.
The book reports results of Together: Conversations on Being the Church, a national emphasis in the Church of the Brethren to encourage people to think and talk about what it means to be the church. Clapp reviews the process of the Together conversations and their intent, and then offers a series of observations on what the participants talked about and heard from each other. The 43-page paperback book also includes a discussion guide with questions to continue the conversation.
Order "What We Said, What We Heard, and Why It Matters" from Brethren Press for $3.95 per copy, plus shipping and handling, call 800-441-3712.
Source: 9/12/2008 Newsline Extra
Resource bits: 300th Anniversary, Jr. High Sunday, Mission Offering, more.
- The final set of Tercentennial Minutes written by Frank Ramirez have been released. These short one-minute readings have been made available through Everett (Pa.) Church of the Brethren, where Ramirez serves as pastor, as an observance of the 300th Anniversary of the Church of the Brethren. Write to ecob@yellowbananas.com to receive the minutes free of charge. Those who missed the first three series can receive them by writing to the same address. The 38th through the 55th of the series are recommended for the weeks from Sept. 7 through Dec. 28, and offer anecdotes cover interesting snippets of Brethren history. The final set of minutes include the story of "Hat Sunday" at Snake Spring Valley congregation in Pennsylvania, the tragic history of the 16 Brethren martyred in China, and the Brethren response to the Pandemic of 1918-19, as well as many more.
- Worship resources for the Church of the Brethren's 2008 World Mission Offering are available online, and have been mailed to congregations. The suggested date for the offering is Sunday, Oct. 12. Resources are offered in English and Spanish on the theme, "Called...by Remembrance" (Luke 22:19b), focusing on a Communion theme. Also available for order are bulletin inserts and offering envelopes. Go to www.brethren.org/genbd/funding/opportun/WorldMission.htm for more information.
- Worship resources for National Junior High Sunday are now available online, go to www.brethren.org/genbd/yya for downloadable resources to assist junior high groups planning to lead congregational worship on Sunday, Nov. 2.
- A 2008 Stewardship Resource Packet for the Church of the Brethren was mailed to each congregation this summer, suitable for use during the Advent season. The packet includes resources on the theme, "Blessed Be the Lord God" (Luke 1:68) for stewardship emphases during Advent. The packet includes a sample commitment card, sample bulletin inserts for the four Sundays of Advent, a four-color theme poster, a booklet on "Stewardship Resources," and two samples of the new "Reality Check" resources for youth retreats (see below). Multiple copies of the resources may be ordered through Brethren Press at 800-441-3712. For a list of available resources and prices see the packet, or contact Carol Bowman, coordinator of Stewardship Formation and Education, at cbowman_gb@brethren.org.
- The new "Reality Check" pamphlets offer a series of plans for youth retreats and workshops on stewardship themes. The pamphlets have been prepared by Church of the Brethren staff including Carol Bowman, coordinator of Stewardship Formation and Education. The four pamphlets currently offered in the series are titled "Meal to Meal" focusing on the denomination's REGNUH (turning hunger around) emphasis; "Moment by Moment: Living in the Rhythm of God's Heartbeat" on valuing choices and God's gifts of life and time; "Dollar by Dollar: Licensed to Spend, Learning to Drive the Money Machine"; and "Sunrise to Sunrise: Waking up to God's Creation" to engage youth in the biblical command to care for creation. Each pamphlet offers a comprehensive plan for a youth retreat including a schedule, a scripture focus, a theme song, session plans, ideas for activities and games, worship resources, Internet links for additional resources, and notes for leaders. Copies of the pamphlets have been included in the Source packets that are mailed to congregations. Or order the pamphlets from Carol Bowman at cbowman_gb@brethren.org.
- Jeffrey A. Bach is succeeding William R. Eberly as editor of the Brethren Encyclopedia, Inc.'s Monograph Series. Bach is director of the Youth Center for Anabaptist and Pietist Studies and associate professor of religious studies at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College. Eberly is a professor emeritus of biology at Manchester College, and was the first editor of the Monograph Series. Under his leadership the series has published seven volumes, including "The German Hymnody of the Brethren, 1720-1903" by Hedda T. Durnbaugh; "The Background and Development of Brethren Doctrines 1650-1987" by Dale R. Stoffer; "Brethren Beginnings" by Donald F. Durnbaugh; "Hochmann von Hochenau 1670-1721" by Heinz Renkewitz and William G. Willoughby; "Brethren Dress: A Testimony of Faith" by Esther Fern Rupel; "The Beliefs of the Early Brethren 1706-1735" by William G. Willoughby; and most recently Marcus Meier's new book, "The Origin of the Schwarzenau Brethren." The first Monograph to be edited by Bach is being written by Michael L. Hodson on the subject of Brethren and Universalism.
- A new children's book, "Give a Goat," is by Jan Schrock, a former director of Brethren Volunteer Service and a senior advisor for Heifer International. Schrock also is the daughter of Heifer founder Dan West. The illustrated hardcover book tells the story of a fifth-grade class that reads the Heifer children's classic "Beatrice's Goat," and decides to raise money to give a goat themselves through Heifer International. The book is published by Tilbury House. "Give a Goat" may be ordered through Brethren Press for $16.95 plus shipping and handling, call 800-441-3712.
Credits
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren, cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. Wendy McFadden, Roy Winter, and Jane Yount contributed to this report.
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren, cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. Wendy McFadden, Roy Winter, and Jane Yount contributed to this report.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
NEWS
- Theme for 2009 Annual Conference is announced.
- Legal documents are filed to establish Church of the Brethren, Inc.
- Denominational executives issue pastoral letter on racism.
- Children's Disaster Services closes out response to Gustav.
- Church of the Brethren funds issue grants totaling $77,500.
- Brethren Volunteer Service summer unit completes orientation.
- Black River Church is rebuilt following 2006 fire.
- Brethren bits: Remembrance, personnel, jr. hi conference, and more.
Theme for 2009 Annual Conference is announced.
A theme has been announced for the 2009 Annual Conference of the Church of the Brethren, to be held on June 26-30 at the Town and Country Resort in San Diego, Calif. The theme is taken from 2 Corinthians 5:16-21: "The old has gone! The new has come! All this is from God!"
An extended theme statement reads, in part, "We are God's new creation transformed through Christ. Released from the past, we find God's presence no longer guilt-provoking, frightening, and condemning; but dynamic, creative, and life-giving.... As we move past the celebration of our heritage and toward the culmination of our purpose, let us hear these words! The old has gone! The new has come! All this is from God!"
In other news related to the 2009 Conference, a special parking rate has been negotiated of $5 per day, rather than the previously announced $12 per day. Also, there are two corrections to the listing of denominational offices open for 2009: only one person will be elected to the Bethany Theological Seminary board, and the opening is for someone to represent the Brethren colleges; and a district executive will be elected to the Pastoral Compensation and Benefits Advisory Committee, not someone from the laity. "Please take these corrections under consideration as you discern nominees for these positions," the office requested. Nominations must be sent to the Annual Conference Office by Dec. 1.
Source: 9/10/2008 Newsline
A theme has been announced for the 2009 Annual Conference of the Church of the Brethren, to be held on June 26-30 at the Town and Country Resort in San Diego, Calif. The theme is taken from 2 Corinthians 5:16-21: "The old has gone! The new has come! All this is from God!"
An extended theme statement reads, in part, "We are God's new creation transformed through Christ. Released from the past, we find God's presence no longer guilt-provoking, frightening, and condemning; but dynamic, creative, and life-giving.... As we move past the celebration of our heritage and toward the culmination of our purpose, let us hear these words! The old has gone! The new has come! All this is from God!"
In other news related to the 2009 Conference, a special parking rate has been negotiated of $5 per day, rather than the previously announced $12 per day. Also, there are two corrections to the listing of denominational offices open for 2009: only one person will be elected to the Bethany Theological Seminary board, and the opening is for someone to represent the Brethren colleges; and a district executive will be elected to the Pastoral Compensation and Benefits Advisory Committee, not someone from the laity. "Please take these corrections under consideration as you discern nominees for these positions," the office requested. Nominations must be sent to the Annual Conference Office by Dec. 1.
Source: 9/10/2008 Newsline
Legal documents are filed to establish Church of the Brethren, Inc.
Legal documents have been successfully filed by the Sept. 1 date to establish the Church of the Brethren, Inc., as the new denominational organization. The new organization was initially created by the 2007 Annual Conference when it adopted the recommendation of the Review and Evaluation Committee to unite the Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC) and the General Board into a new incorporated legal entity.
In July, the 2008 Conference adopted resolutions approving the plan and agreement of merger of ABC and the General Board into a single corporation. The new organization also incorporates the functions of the Annual Conference Council.
Sept. 1 was the official start date for the new denominational organization. The name of the organization is Church of the Brethren, Inc. In the course of day-to-day activities, however, simply the name "Church of the Brethren" will be used where previously agency names of "General Board" or "Association of Brethren Caregivers" were used.
The Caring Ministries of the Church of the Brethren is the new name for the areas of the church's work known previously as ministries of ABC. The name of the new denominational board is the Mission and Ministry Board of the Church of the Brethren.
A donations process has been announced by Church of the Brethren funding staff, for the rest of this year and into the future. Staff emphasize that congregations should not reduce allocations, as all ministries of ABC and the General Board are continuing and will need financial support.
Congregations and individual donors are requested to make checks payable to the "Church of the Brethren." General Board and ABC allocations should be combined into one check if possible. Notations on checks can read "Core ministries," which is the main budget support for denominational ministries that are not self-funded, and now is the main budget support for the Caring Ministries. "If a particular ministry is a donor's passion the memo line can carry that restriction and the funds will be placed and used accordingly," said the announcement.
"We will continue to be good stewards of all donated funds," said Ken Neher, director of stewardship and donor development for the Church of the Brethren, "and diligently continue the work of Jesus as your partner in mission and ministry."
Source: 9/10/2008 Newsline
Legal documents have been successfully filed by the Sept. 1 date to establish the Church of the Brethren, Inc., as the new denominational organization. The new organization was initially created by the 2007 Annual Conference when it adopted the recommendation of the Review and Evaluation Committee to unite the Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC) and the General Board into a new incorporated legal entity.
In July, the 2008 Conference adopted resolutions approving the plan and agreement of merger of ABC and the General Board into a single corporation. The new organization also incorporates the functions of the Annual Conference Council.
Sept. 1 was the official start date for the new denominational organization. The name of the organization is Church of the Brethren, Inc. In the course of day-to-day activities, however, simply the name "Church of the Brethren" will be used where previously agency names of "General Board" or "Association of Brethren Caregivers" were used.
The Caring Ministries of the Church of the Brethren is the new name for the areas of the church's work known previously as ministries of ABC. The name of the new denominational board is the Mission and Ministry Board of the Church of the Brethren.
A donations process has been announced by Church of the Brethren funding staff, for the rest of this year and into the future. Staff emphasize that congregations should not reduce allocations, as all ministries of ABC and the General Board are continuing and will need financial support.
Congregations and individual donors are requested to make checks payable to the "Church of the Brethren." General Board and ABC allocations should be combined into one check if possible. Notations on checks can read "Core ministries," which is the main budget support for denominational ministries that are not self-funded, and now is the main budget support for the Caring Ministries. "If a particular ministry is a donor's passion the memo line can carry that restriction and the funds will be placed and used accordingly," said the announcement.
"We will continue to be good stewards of all donated funds," said Ken Neher, director of stewardship and donor development for the Church of the Brethren, "and diligently continue the work of Jesus as your partner in mission and ministry."
Source: 9/10/2008 Newsline
Denominational executives issue pastoral letter on racism.
"We believe that this time in the life of our nation and our denomination is an opening for spiritual reflection and positive change in race relations," said the opening sentence of a pastoral letter on racism signed by the executives of the main Church of the Brethren agencies. It was sent in late August to all congregations and districts in the Church of the Brethren, as well as to the Brethren-related colleges.
Church of the Brethren United Nations representative Doris Abdullah also has shared the letter with the Sub-Committee for the Elimination of Racism of the United Nation's NGO Committee for Human Rights. The letter has been included as an advocacy statement to the Anti-Discrimination Unit of the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, in Geneva, Switzerland.
The letter was signed by Stanley J. Noffsinger, general secretary; Bob Gross, executive director of On Earth Peace; Kathy Reid, executive director of the Association of Brethren Caregivers; Ruthann Knechel Johansen, president of Bethany Theological Seminary; and Wilfred E. Nolen, president of Brethren Benefit Trust.
"This letter is not a partisan political statement and is not an endorsement of any candidate," the executives said. "We are writing because the presidential campaign and its coverage in the media have made it clear that prejudice continues in our nation." The letter was headed by a passage of scripture from Matthew 22:37-39.
The executives wrote "in a spirit of humility...admitting that we have more questions than answers." The letter went on to mention the prominent roles that racism, sexism, and militarism have played in the US presidential campaign. "We are realizing that the nomination of an African-American for president of the United States presents the church with a unique opening to talk about racism," the executives said. "We sense that this is a time in which the church needs to step forward and lead in a national conversation on race."
The letter also made a series of confessions and posed questions, "as a way to examine our personal and collective conscience." Heading the confessions was the statement that "all of us have been caught up in racism, and we name it as an evil. We confess that there have been expressions of racism in our congregations and in our denomination." Another confessional statement said that "as followers of Jesus, we must continually seek the mind of Christ and have the ability to examine ourselves in the light of scripture."
Attached was a list of recommended resources. The letter also affirmed the witness of the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference, in particular the statements "Becoming a Multi-Ethnic Church" (2007), "Community: A Tribe of Many Feathers" (1994), "Brethren and Black Americans" (1991), and "Statement Addressing the Concern of Undocumented Persons and Refugees in the United States" (1982).
Closing by calling the church "to make our confession of faith, to turn to God for forgiveness for our own participation in racism, and to be part of God's work of healing in our society and in our congregations," the executives stated, "This kind of 'Kingdom' work and radical discipleship is difficult, but we have faith that God is with us. The power of the Holy Spirit is working among us to make all things possible."
Find the complete letter and attached resource list at www.brethren.org.
Source: 9/10/2008 Newsline
"We believe that this time in the life of our nation and our denomination is an opening for spiritual reflection and positive change in race relations," said the opening sentence of a pastoral letter on racism signed by the executives of the main Church of the Brethren agencies. It was sent in late August to all congregations and districts in the Church of the Brethren, as well as to the Brethren-related colleges.
Church of the Brethren United Nations representative Doris Abdullah also has shared the letter with the Sub-Committee for the Elimination of Racism of the United Nation's NGO Committee for Human Rights. The letter has been included as an advocacy statement to the Anti-Discrimination Unit of the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, in Geneva, Switzerland.
The letter was signed by Stanley J. Noffsinger, general secretary; Bob Gross, executive director of On Earth Peace; Kathy Reid, executive director of the Association of Brethren Caregivers; Ruthann Knechel Johansen, president of Bethany Theological Seminary; and Wilfred E. Nolen, president of Brethren Benefit Trust.
"This letter is not a partisan political statement and is not an endorsement of any candidate," the executives said. "We are writing because the presidential campaign and its coverage in the media have made it clear that prejudice continues in our nation." The letter was headed by a passage of scripture from Matthew 22:37-39.
The executives wrote "in a spirit of humility...admitting that we have more questions than answers." The letter went on to mention the prominent roles that racism, sexism, and militarism have played in the US presidential campaign. "We are realizing that the nomination of an African-American for president of the United States presents the church with a unique opening to talk about racism," the executives said. "We sense that this is a time in which the church needs to step forward and lead in a national conversation on race."
The letter also made a series of confessions and posed questions, "as a way to examine our personal and collective conscience." Heading the confessions was the statement that "all of us have been caught up in racism, and we name it as an evil. We confess that there have been expressions of racism in our congregations and in our denomination." Another confessional statement said that "as followers of Jesus, we must continually seek the mind of Christ and have the ability to examine ourselves in the light of scripture."
Attached was a list of recommended resources. The letter also affirmed the witness of the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference, in particular the statements "Becoming a Multi-Ethnic Church" (2007), "Community: A Tribe of Many Feathers" (1994), "Brethren and Black Americans" (1991), and "Statement Addressing the Concern of Undocumented Persons and Refugees in the United States" (1982).
Closing by calling the church "to make our confession of faith, to turn to God for forgiveness for our own participation in racism, and to be part of God's work of healing in our society and in our congregations," the executives stated, "This kind of 'Kingdom' work and radical discipleship is difficult, but we have faith that God is with us. The power of the Holy Spirit is working among us to make all things possible."
Find the complete letter and attached resource list at www.brethren.org.
Source: 9/10/2008 Newsline
Children's Disaster Services closes out response to Gustav.
Children's Disaster Services is closing out its response to Hurricane Gustav. Meanwhile, Hurricane Ike has developed into a powerful storm that devastated parts of the Caribbean, and may threaten Texas.
Children's Disaster Services collaborated with the American Red Cross to determine where volunteers were most needed in responding to Gustav. As the hurricane made landfall, Roy Winter, executive director for Brethren Disaster Ministries made an early departure from National Older Adult Conference to manage the Children's Disaster Services response on the ground in Mississippi and Louisiana. Staff at the disaster response offices including Children's Disaster Services director Judy Bezon, and coordinator LethaJoy Martin, kept the operation going by deploying volunteers, communicating with the Red Cross or FEMA, and trouble-shooting issues at the various child care sites.
As of late last week, six childcare volunteers were working in shelters on the Mississippi coast; 10 were working in a Super Shelter in Shreveport, La.; and 11 were working in a Super Shelter in Alexandria, La. Most of those centers are closing as of today, Winter said.
In other news, Zach Wolgemuth, associate director of Brethren Disaster Ministries, visited flood areas in Minnesota and Iowa last week. He first stopped at the Brethren Disaster Ministries rebuilding project in Rushford, Minn., where volunteers have nearly completed three homes, and have just finished drywall on a fourth. The slab is expected to be poured for a fifth house this week. Brethren Disaster Ministries plans to completely rebuild seven new homes for flood survivors in Rushford by the end of this year. In addition, volunteers have repaired more than 30 homes in the Rushford area since the project opened, following flash floods a year ago.
In Iowa, which suffered severe floods and tornadoes this spring, Wolgemuth met with Northern Plains District executive minister Tim Button-Harrison and the district's disaster response coordinator Gary Gahm, offering resources to aid the district's response to needs as they arise.
In Haiti the three recent hurricanes--Gustav, Hanna, and Ike--all did considerable damage, according to a report from Ludovic St. Fleur. He serves as coordinator of the Church of the Brethren mission in Haiti, and pastors Eglise des Freres Haitiens in Miami, Fla., and the Orlando Haitian Fellowship.
The hurricanes affected the Port-au-Prince area where the five Church of the Brethren congregations and seven preaching points are located. Flooding was the main problem in Port-au-Prince, where one pastor, DeLouis St. Louis, lost his home. Several members of congregations also lost household items. "The water came and took their belongings. They didn't have time for evacuation," St. Fleur said. Congregations also were not able to hold services on Sunday, Sept. 7, because flooded areas made travel difficult.
Power has been cut off to much of the region, and cell phone access has been intermittent, so St. Fleur said he does not yet have a complete picture of total impact of the storms for members of the Haitian congregations. "Please keep my people in your prayers," he asked.
Source: 9/10/2008 Newsline
Children's Disaster Services is closing out its response to Hurricane Gustav. Meanwhile, Hurricane Ike has developed into a powerful storm that devastated parts of the Caribbean, and may threaten Texas.
Children's Disaster Services collaborated with the American Red Cross to determine where volunteers were most needed in responding to Gustav. As the hurricane made landfall, Roy Winter, executive director for Brethren Disaster Ministries made an early departure from National Older Adult Conference to manage the Children's Disaster Services response on the ground in Mississippi and Louisiana. Staff at the disaster response offices including Children's Disaster Services director Judy Bezon, and coordinator LethaJoy Martin, kept the operation going by deploying volunteers, communicating with the Red Cross or FEMA, and trouble-shooting issues at the various child care sites.
As of late last week, six childcare volunteers were working in shelters on the Mississippi coast; 10 were working in a Super Shelter in Shreveport, La.; and 11 were working in a Super Shelter in Alexandria, La. Most of those centers are closing as of today, Winter said.
In other news, Zach Wolgemuth, associate director of Brethren Disaster Ministries, visited flood areas in Minnesota and Iowa last week. He first stopped at the Brethren Disaster Ministries rebuilding project in Rushford, Minn., where volunteers have nearly completed three homes, and have just finished drywall on a fourth. The slab is expected to be poured for a fifth house this week. Brethren Disaster Ministries plans to completely rebuild seven new homes for flood survivors in Rushford by the end of this year. In addition, volunteers have repaired more than 30 homes in the Rushford area since the project opened, following flash floods a year ago.
In Iowa, which suffered severe floods and tornadoes this spring, Wolgemuth met with Northern Plains District executive minister Tim Button-Harrison and the district's disaster response coordinator Gary Gahm, offering resources to aid the district's response to needs as they arise.
In Haiti the three recent hurricanes--Gustav, Hanna, and Ike--all did considerable damage, according to a report from Ludovic St. Fleur. He serves as coordinator of the Church of the Brethren mission in Haiti, and pastors Eglise des Freres Haitiens in Miami, Fla., and the Orlando Haitian Fellowship.
The hurricanes affected the Port-au-Prince area where the five Church of the Brethren congregations and seven preaching points are located. Flooding was the main problem in Port-au-Prince, where one pastor, DeLouis St. Louis, lost his home. Several members of congregations also lost household items. "The water came and took their belongings. They didn't have time for evacuation," St. Fleur said. Congregations also were not able to hold services on Sunday, Sept. 7, because flooded areas made travel difficult.
Power has been cut off to much of the region, and cell phone access has been intermittent, so St. Fleur said he does not yet have a complete picture of total impact of the storms for members of the Haitian congregations. "Please keep my people in your prayers," he asked.
Source: 9/10/2008 Newsline
Church of the Brethren funds issue grants totaling $77,500.
The Church of the Brethren's Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF) and Global Food Crisis Fund (GFCF) have issued a number of grants recently. The seven grants total $77,500.
An allocation of $22,500 from the EDF responds to a growing food crisis in Ethiopia. Ongoing drought conditions have left up to 15 million people experiencing food shortages and 4.6 million people needing immediate assistance. The Brethren grant will help Church World Service (CWS) provide emergency food rations targeted to the most vulnerable people.
The GFCF has made an allocation of $12,500 to support CWS partner work in Ethiopia. The grant will assist vulnerable people with food rations, seeds, edible oils, and corn soy blend. To the extent possible, the grant also will help with the provision of seed for future crops.
The EDF has allocated $15,000 in response to a CWS appeal for deteriorating conditions for nearly four million Palestinians living in Gaza and the West Bank. The funds will support medical care, agricultural training and development, and job creation.
An EDF grant of $8,000 responds to a CWS appeal to aid Iraqi refugees and internally displaced people. The money will support work of the International Orthodox Christian Communities and the Middle East Council of Churches in providing emergency food and family hygiene supplies.
A grant of $7,500 from the EDF responds to a CWS appeal following flooding and damage from Hurricane Dolly in Texas. The funds will help supply material aid, water purification, staff deployment for trainings, and financial support for longterm recovery groups.
An EDF grant of $7,000 responds to a CWS appeal following Tropical Storm Fay. The money will help supply material aid, staff deployment for trainings, financial support to longterm recovery groups, and project development supporting farm laborers.
An EDF grant of $5,000 goes to Children's Disaster Services for the response to Hurricane Gustav.
Source: 9/10/2008 Newsline
The Church of the Brethren's Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF) and Global Food Crisis Fund (GFCF) have issued a number of grants recently. The seven grants total $77,500.
An allocation of $22,500 from the EDF responds to a growing food crisis in Ethiopia. Ongoing drought conditions have left up to 15 million people experiencing food shortages and 4.6 million people needing immediate assistance. The Brethren grant will help Church World Service (CWS) provide emergency food rations targeted to the most vulnerable people.
The GFCF has made an allocation of $12,500 to support CWS partner work in Ethiopia. The grant will assist vulnerable people with food rations, seeds, edible oils, and corn soy blend. To the extent possible, the grant also will help with the provision of seed for future crops.
The EDF has allocated $15,000 in response to a CWS appeal for deteriorating conditions for nearly four million Palestinians living in Gaza and the West Bank. The funds will support medical care, agricultural training and development, and job creation.
An EDF grant of $8,000 responds to a CWS appeal to aid Iraqi refugees and internally displaced people. The money will support work of the International Orthodox Christian Communities and the Middle East Council of Churches in providing emergency food and family hygiene supplies.
A grant of $7,500 from the EDF responds to a CWS appeal following flooding and damage from Hurricane Dolly in Texas. The funds will help supply material aid, water purification, staff deployment for trainings, and financial support for longterm recovery groups.
An EDF grant of $7,000 responds to a CWS appeal following Tropical Storm Fay. The money will help supply material aid, staff deployment for trainings, financial support to longterm recovery groups, and project development supporting farm laborers.
An EDF grant of $5,000 goes to Children's Disaster Services for the response to Hurricane Gustav.
Source: 9/10/2008 Newsline
Brethren Volunteer Service summer unit completes orientation.
Volunteers from Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) Unit 280 have completed orientation. The summer orientation was held in Wenatchee, Wash., from July 27-Aug. 15.
Following are the home congregations or hometowns, and placements of the volunteers: Tyler Banas of Hampshire, Ill., is going to Camp Myrtlewood in Myrtle Point, Ore.; Simon Bender of Bietigheim-Bissingen, Germany, and Deniz Oelcer of Bonn, Germany, will work at the Samaritan House in Atlanta, Ga.; Elena Bohlander of Pleasant Hill (Ohio) Church of the Brethren and Julian Hoelzer of Stuttgart, Germany, will serve at Su Casa in Chicago, Ill.; Annika Hoersch of Giengen, Germany, goes to the Tri-City Homeless Coalition in Fremont, Calif.; Fiona Lacey of Monterey, Mass., and Friederike Loeffler of Walldorf, Germany, go to the International Community School in Decatur, Ga.; Christy Meier and Steve Meier of Topeka, Kan., will work with YMCA Greenhill in Newcastle, N. Ireland; Steve Mullaney of Minneapolis, Minn., serves at Miguel Angel Asturias Colegia, Quetzaltenango, in Guatemala; Carly Pildis of Brookline, Mass., will serve with Jubliee USA Network in Washington D.C.; Anna Simons of South Bend, Ind., and Lukas Pack of Cologne, Germany, go to Project PLASE in Baltimore, Md.; Ned Thilo of East Fairview Church of the Brethren in Manheim, Pa., will serve with the Human Resources Development Council in Havre, Mont.
The next BVS orientation unit will be held Sept. 21-Oct. 10 at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. It will include 19 volunteers. The group will spend three weeks exploring project possibilities and topics of community building, peace and social justice, and faith sharing; will spend several work days in both rural and urban communities; and will attend the BVS 60th Anniversary Weekend. For more information contact the BVS office at 800-323-8039.
Source: 9/10/2008 Newsline
Volunteers from Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) Unit 280 have completed orientation. The summer orientation was held in Wenatchee, Wash., from July 27-Aug. 15.
Following are the home congregations or hometowns, and placements of the volunteers: Tyler Banas of Hampshire, Ill., is going to Camp Myrtlewood in Myrtle Point, Ore.; Simon Bender of Bietigheim-Bissingen, Germany, and Deniz Oelcer of Bonn, Germany, will work at the Samaritan House in Atlanta, Ga.; Elena Bohlander of Pleasant Hill (Ohio) Church of the Brethren and Julian Hoelzer of Stuttgart, Germany, will serve at Su Casa in Chicago, Ill.; Annika Hoersch of Giengen, Germany, goes to the Tri-City Homeless Coalition in Fremont, Calif.; Fiona Lacey of Monterey, Mass., and Friederike Loeffler of Walldorf, Germany, go to the International Community School in Decatur, Ga.; Christy Meier and Steve Meier of Topeka, Kan., will work with YMCA Greenhill in Newcastle, N. Ireland; Steve Mullaney of Minneapolis, Minn., serves at Miguel Angel Asturias Colegia, Quetzaltenango, in Guatemala; Carly Pildis of Brookline, Mass., will serve with Jubliee USA Network in Washington D.C.; Anna Simons of South Bend, Ind., and Lukas Pack of Cologne, Germany, go to Project PLASE in Baltimore, Md.; Ned Thilo of East Fairview Church of the Brethren in Manheim, Pa., will serve with the Human Resources Development Council in Havre, Mont.
The next BVS orientation unit will be held Sept. 21-Oct. 10 at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. It will include 19 volunteers. The group will spend three weeks exploring project possibilities and topics of community building, peace and social justice, and faith sharing; will spend several work days in both rural and urban communities; and will attend the BVS 60th Anniversary Weekend. For more information contact the BVS office at 800-323-8039.
Source: 9/10/2008 Newsline
Black River Church is rebuilt following 2006 fire.
Black River Church of the Brethren in Spencer, Ohio, dedicated a new building on July 20, a year and a half after the church burned to the ground on Christmas Eve night 2006. The church celebrated being able to worship in its new building with a two-day event, including two baptisms on the dedication Sunday, preceded by an open house on the 19th with music, food, and fellowship.
At the dedication, 120 people were in attendance. "Everything is going well," said pastor Mark Teal.
The story of the rebuilding of Black River Church of the Brethren is one of partnership and widespread support. Black River Church has received significant financial help from congregations in the Northern Ohio District, and district executive minister John Ballinger took part in the dedication service. The church also has received support, donations, and prayers from Brethren across the country, as well as businesses and other churches in the community.
"It was really miraculous how the church got built," said Teal. He reported that the congregation received donations of over $100,000, which along with insurance provided almost all the money needed for the new church building. The congregation has had to take a loan only for repairs to the parsonage and other things not directly related to the church building. Local businesses and churches have donated furniture, including a Clorox Co. factory that closed. "Every appliance that's in our kitchen has been donated," Teal said.
The donations have come "from far and wide," he added. "We've had donations from California and Florida. We've even had a donation from China, from someone who had a connection to the church. And donations from Brethren from everywhere." Teal specifically mentioned a large donation from a "neighbor"--Mohican Church of the Brethren in West Salem, Ohio.
Significant support came from Chatham Community Church, located just two miles down the road. Chatham Community had merged a United Methodist congregation and a congregational congregation, and offered Black River Church the use of one of its two buildings after the fire. Black River Church met in the building for nearly a year and a half.
Simmons Brothers Construction, a company which Teal said works regularly with churches, called on the second day after the fire to offer free planning and architectural services. Teal emphasized that the church used an appropriate bidding process, but found that the company gave them the best offer. "They just gave us an amazing deal. It wouldn't have been possible without them."
"We're really blessed, I tell you," said Teal. "It was amazing the way God used so many people.... God is good."
Source: 9/10/2008 Newsline
Black River Church of the Brethren in Spencer, Ohio, dedicated a new building on July 20, a year and a half after the church burned to the ground on Christmas Eve night 2006. The church celebrated being able to worship in its new building with a two-day event, including two baptisms on the dedication Sunday, preceded by an open house on the 19th with music, food, and fellowship.
At the dedication, 120 people were in attendance. "Everything is going well," said pastor Mark Teal.
The story of the rebuilding of Black River Church of the Brethren is one of partnership and widespread support. Black River Church has received significant financial help from congregations in the Northern Ohio District, and district executive minister John Ballinger took part in the dedication service. The church also has received support, donations, and prayers from Brethren across the country, as well as businesses and other churches in the community.
"It was really miraculous how the church got built," said Teal. He reported that the congregation received donations of over $100,000, which along with insurance provided almost all the money needed for the new church building. The congregation has had to take a loan only for repairs to the parsonage and other things not directly related to the church building. Local businesses and churches have donated furniture, including a Clorox Co. factory that closed. "Every appliance that's in our kitchen has been donated," Teal said.
The donations have come "from far and wide," he added. "We've had donations from California and Florida. We've even had a donation from China, from someone who had a connection to the church. And donations from Brethren from everywhere." Teal specifically mentioned a large donation from a "neighbor"--Mohican Church of the Brethren in West Salem, Ohio.
Significant support came from Chatham Community Church, located just two miles down the road. Chatham Community had merged a United Methodist congregation and a congregational congregation, and offered Black River Church the use of one of its two buildings after the fire. Black River Church met in the building for nearly a year and a half.
Simmons Brothers Construction, a company which Teal said works regularly with churches, called on the second day after the fire to offer free planning and architectural services. Teal emphasized that the church used an appropriate bidding process, but found that the company gave them the best offer. "They just gave us an amazing deal. It wouldn't have been possible without them."
"We're really blessed, I tell you," said Teal. "It was amazing the way God used so many people.... God is good."
Source: 9/10/2008 Newsline
Brethren bits: Remembrance, personnel, jr. hi conference, and more.
- Diane Gosnell passed away on Sept. 8. She was serving as secretary for Brethren Disaster Ministries at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. Gosnell served in the position for almost 19 years, since July 31, 1989. Gosnell's duties also have included work for Children's Disaster Services, clerical work and some communications work on behalf of Brethren Disaster Ministries and Children's Disaster Services, and helping to represent Brethren Disaster Ministries at community and church events. In an article she wrote for a staff newsletter last year, Gosnell expressed appreciation for the many volunteers with Brethren Disaster Ministries, as well as "the loving concern and support my co-workers extend to me as I continue the challenges of fighting cancer. A favorite scripture of mine is Psalm 71. From verse 12 it reads, 'Be not far from me, O God; come quickly, O my God to help me.'" The Church of the Brethren requests prayer for Gosnells' parents, Fred and Imogene, her sister Karen Edwards, and all those who have stood by her during her long battle with cancer. A memorial service will be held at Union Bridge Church of the Brethren on Sept. 13 at 11 a.m. A memorial planting will be placed on the grounds of the Brethren Service Center later this fall. Cards of condolence are being received by the Brethren Service Center, P.O. Box 188, New Windsor, MD 21776.
- Steve Mullaney of Plymouth, Minn., began a two-year assignment with the Church of the Brethren's Global Mission Partnerships on Aug. 4 at Miguel Angel Asturias Academy in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala. He will serve through Brethren Volunteer Service as an office and volunteer coordinator at the school, which offers high-quality experiential learning opportunities to indigenous students.
- Camp Bethel, the outdoor ministry of Virlina District located near Fincastle, Va., is accepting applications for a fulltime assistant director, and a fulltime food services director. Go to www.campbethelvirginia.org/jobs.htm for application forms, position descriptions, and more information about each position.
- The dates of June 19-21, 2009, have been set for the Church of the Brethren's second National Junior High Conference, to be held at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Va. Presenters will include Ken Medema and Ted Schwartz (formerly of "Ted and Lee"). Registration will begin online on Jan. 15. Cost will be $125 per person for junior high youth and adult advisors. People living west of the Mississippi will be eligible for a $150 travel scholarship. More information will be posted at www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/NatJrHighConf.htm as available.
- After only four years of operation, the Peace Church Risk Retention Group has rewarded its 45 member organizations with a $1 million dividend distribution. The Peace Church Risk Retention Group is for organizations that are members of the Church of the Brethren's Caring Ministries, the Mennonite Health Services Alliance, and Friends Services for the Aging, and provides general and professional liability insurance. The announcement was made by Phil Leaman, chief executive officer of AARM, based in Lancaster, Pa., which provides overall administration for the group. The $1 million distribution follows a $500,000 dividend in 2007. According to Kathy Reid, executive director of Caring Ministries, the group "provides a tremendous opportunity for the members of the Fellowship of Brethren Homes." New members from eligible nonprofit longterm care providers are welcomed, contact Leaman at phil@aarm.net or 717-293-7840.
- Codorus Church of the Brethren in Dallastown, Pa., is celebrating its 250th anniversary with a Sept. 14 worship service led by Jeff Bach, director of the Young Center for the Study of Anabaptist and Pietist Groups at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College.
- Hatfield (Pa.) Church of the Brethren holds its 175th anniversary at 6 p.m. on Sept. 20 at Franconia Heritage Banquet and Conference Center. Cost is $26, call the church at 215-855-3064.
- On Sept. 7, a final worship service was held at Maxwell (Iowa) Church of the Brethren. "Maxwell Church of the Brethren, previously Indian Creek Church of the Brethren, was an important congregation in our district through the years," said an announcement from Northern Plains District. Indian Creek was organized in 1856 and gave rise to a number of other congregations including Ankeny, Dallas Center, Panora, Panther Creek, and Prairie City.
- Upcoming district conferences include the Southern Pennsylvania District Conference on Sept. 19-20 at First Church of the Brethren in York, Pa., on the theme is "Be Still and Know I Am God" (Psalm 46:10); and the Northern Indiana District Conference on Sept. 19-20 at Camp Alexander Mack on the theme "Love is " (1 Corinthians 13).
- The Church of North India (CNI) closed its educational institutions on Aug. 29 and encouraged members to join in a protest and prayer rally for the situation of Christians in the Indian state of Orissa. CNI has been a partner with Brethren mission efforts in India. In a release on the situation in Orissa, the World Council of Churches (WCC) said the state has seen "indiscriminate killing, burning of church buildings, and destruction of institutions." Some 20 people have been killed, 50,000 people displaced, and 4,000 homes destroyed over a period of 10 days in late August, according to the WCC. The violence started after the killing of a prominent radical Hindu leader on Aug. 23. Although a Maoist rebel group claimed responsibility, Hindu militants blame Christians for it, the release said. Go to www.oikoumene.org/?id=6266 for more information.
Barb Sayler resigns from On Earth Peace.
Barb Sayler has resigned as coordinator of communications for On Earth Peace, as of mid-October. She joined the staff as co-executive director in Sept. 2000. In May last year, she stepped back from the co-director role to work part-time and have more time for family.
Among her responsibilities in communications have been newsletters, the On Earth Peace website, and preparations for Annual Conference and district conferences. Previous responsibilities as co-executive director included planning and beginning program emphases to envision action as an essential ingredient in peace education. In her role as co-executive director, she also was one of the Brethren representatives to the first International Historic Peace Church Consultation in Switzerland in 2001.
In previous work for the denomination, she served in Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) and worked as a program assistant for BVS, assistant to the director of the Washington Office, and coordinator of volunteers in Children's Disaster Ministries. Her volunteer service also included participation in JOYA (Journey of Young Adults). She holds degrees from Bethany Theological Seminary and McPherson (Kan.) College.
This fall, Sayler plans an internship with Music Together, a music program for young children and their parents/caregivers, and will begin teaching in January.
Source: 9/10/2008 Newsline
Barb Sayler has resigned as coordinator of communications for On Earth Peace, as of mid-October. She joined the staff as co-executive director in Sept. 2000. In May last year, she stepped back from the co-director role to work part-time and have more time for family.
Among her responsibilities in communications have been newsletters, the On Earth Peace website, and preparations for Annual Conference and district conferences. Previous responsibilities as co-executive director included planning and beginning program emphases to envision action as an essential ingredient in peace education. In her role as co-executive director, she also was one of the Brethren representatives to the first International Historic Peace Church Consultation in Switzerland in 2001.
In previous work for the denomination, she served in Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) and worked as a program assistant for BVS, assistant to the director of the Washington Office, and coordinator of volunteers in Children's Disaster Ministries. Her volunteer service also included participation in JOYA (Journey of Young Adults). She holds degrees from Bethany Theological Seminary and McPherson (Kan.) College.
This fall, Sayler plans an internship with Music Together, a music program for young children and their parents/caregivers, and will begin teaching in January.
Source: 9/10/2008 Newsline
Historical marker to be dedicated at Germantown Church.
On Sunday, Sept. 21, at 3 p.m., a service of dedication will be held for a new historical marker at Germantown Church of the Brethren in Philadelphia, Pa. Germantown was the first Brethren meetinghouse in the nation, dating back to 1770. The congregation is pastored by Richard Kyerematen.
The commemorative marker has been made possible by the efforts of the Historical Committee of the Atlantic Northeast District, in cooperation with the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. "The dedication is especially timely, since this year is the 300th Anniversary of the baptism in Germany of the forebears of current Brethren," noted the Historical Committee.
The dedication will include remarks by Wayne Spilove, chair of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, and Jeff Bach, director of the Young Center for Anabaptist and Pietist Studies at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College. Musical selections will include a variety of contemporary songs by Germantown members and eighteenth-century Brethren hymns. David E. Fuchs, chair of the Historical Committee, will be master of ceremonies. The event will conclude with a tour of the church grounds and cemetery led by Ron Lutz, moderator of the congregation.
Source: 9/10/2008 Newsline
On Sunday, Sept. 21, at 3 p.m., a service of dedication will be held for a new historical marker at Germantown Church of the Brethren in Philadelphia, Pa. Germantown was the first Brethren meetinghouse in the nation, dating back to 1770. The congregation is pastored by Richard Kyerematen.
The commemorative marker has been made possible by the efforts of the Historical Committee of the Atlantic Northeast District, in cooperation with the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. "The dedication is especially timely, since this year is the 300th Anniversary of the baptism in Germany of the forebears of current Brethren," noted the Historical Committee.
The dedication will include remarks by Wayne Spilove, chair of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, and Jeff Bach, director of the Young Center for Anabaptist and Pietist Studies at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College. Musical selections will include a variety of contemporary songs by Germantown members and eighteenth-century Brethren hymns. David E. Fuchs, chair of the Historical Committee, will be master of ceremonies. The event will conclude with a tour of the church grounds and cemetery led by Ron Lutz, moderator of the congregation.
Source: 9/10/2008 Newsline
Clergywomen's Retreat to 'fan the flames of the Spirit.'
A Church of the Brethren Clergywomen's Retreat will be held Jan. 12-15, 2009, on the theme, "Reconnecting with Holy Fire: Fanning the Flames of the Spirit Among Us" (Luke 24:32). The event will be at the Mary and Joseph Retreat Center in Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif.
The retreat is open to all ordained and licensed women in the Church of the Brethren, and is sponsored by the denomination's Ministry Office. The main presenter will be Marva Dawn, teaching fellow in Spiritual Theology at Regent College in Vancouver, B.C., Canada, and author of more than 20 books including "Reaching Out Without Dumbing Down: A Theology of Worship for the Turn-of-the-Century Culture."
Registration is $290 ($310 after Oct. 1). A limited number of single rooms are available on a first-come, first served basis for $360 ($380 after Oct. 1). Scholarship possibilities are available, contact Dana Cassell in the Ministry Office at dcassell_gb@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 317. Go to www.brethren.org/genbd/ministry to register online.
Source: 9/10/2008 Newsline
A Church of the Brethren Clergywomen's Retreat will be held Jan. 12-15, 2009, on the theme, "Reconnecting with Holy Fire: Fanning the Flames of the Spirit Among Us" (Luke 24:32). The event will be at the Mary and Joseph Retreat Center in Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif.
The retreat is open to all ordained and licensed women in the Church of the Brethren, and is sponsored by the denomination's Ministry Office. The main presenter will be Marva Dawn, teaching fellow in Spiritual Theology at Regent College in Vancouver, B.C., Canada, and author of more than 20 books including "Reaching Out Without Dumbing Down: A Theology of Worship for the Turn-of-the-Century Culture."
Registration is $290 ($310 after Oct. 1). A limited number of single rooms are available on a first-come, first served basis for $360 ($380 after Oct. 1). Scholarship possibilities are available, contact Dana Cassell in the Ministry Office at dcassell_gb@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 317. Go to www.brethren.org/genbd/ministry to register online.
Source: 9/10/2008 Newsline
'Progressive Brethren Summit' is announced for November.
A "Progressive Brethren Summit" has been announced for Nov. 7-9 in Indianapolis, sponsored by Voices for an Open Spirit (VOS), the Brethren Mennonite Council for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Interests (BMC), the Womaen's Caucus, Christian Community, and a number of congregations and individuals. The event is being billed as "the first-ever summit" of people who see themselves as "progressive" and currently or formerly participating in the Church of the Brethren.
The weekend on the theme, "Faithful and Just: Progressive Brethren Speak," will be hosted by Northview Church of the Brethren. Speakers are Audrey deCoursey of the Womaen's Caucus and Ken Kline Smeltzer of VOS, on "A Challenged Church" for opening worship; Robert Miller, chair of Christian and Religious Studies at Juniata College and member of the Jesus Seminar, speaking on "A Grounded Church"; Susan Boyer, pastor of La Verne (Calif.) Church of the Brethren, speaking on "A Welcoming Church"; and Kurt Borgmann, pastor of Manchester Church of the Brethren in North Manchester, Ind., speaking on "A Courageous Church" for the concluding Sunday morning service.
Various workshops will be offered including "Silent and Undecided Friends: Motivating Greater LGBT Advocacy Among Clergy and Congregations" led by Steve Clapp of Christian Community; "Old Lenses, New Eyes: The Old Testament and Progressive Biblical Interpretation" led by Christina Bucher, a faculty member at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College; and "Storytelling as Public Narrative" led by Carol Wise of BMC (workshop proposals are being accepted through Sept. 25 at bmc@bmclgbt.org).
Go to www.womaenscaucus.org for registration and more information.
Source: 9/10/2008 Newsline
A "Progressive Brethren Summit" has been announced for Nov. 7-9 in Indianapolis, sponsored by Voices for an Open Spirit (VOS), the Brethren Mennonite Council for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Interests (BMC), the Womaen's Caucus, Christian Community, and a number of congregations and individuals. The event is being billed as "the first-ever summit" of people who see themselves as "progressive" and currently or formerly participating in the Church of the Brethren.
The weekend on the theme, "Faithful and Just: Progressive Brethren Speak," will be hosted by Northview Church of the Brethren. Speakers are Audrey deCoursey of the Womaen's Caucus and Ken Kline Smeltzer of VOS, on "A Challenged Church" for opening worship; Robert Miller, chair of Christian and Religious Studies at Juniata College and member of the Jesus Seminar, speaking on "A Grounded Church"; Susan Boyer, pastor of La Verne (Calif.) Church of the Brethren, speaking on "A Welcoming Church"; and Kurt Borgmann, pastor of Manchester Church of the Brethren in North Manchester, Ind., speaking on "A Courageous Church" for the concluding Sunday morning service.
Various workshops will be offered including "Silent and Undecided Friends: Motivating Greater LGBT Advocacy Among Clergy and Congregations" led by Steve Clapp of Christian Community; "Old Lenses, New Eyes: The Old Testament and Progressive Biblical Interpretation" led by Christina Bucher, a faculty member at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College; and "Storytelling as Public Narrative" led by Carol Wise of BMC (workshop proposals are being accepted through Sept. 25 at bmc@bmclgbt.org).
Go to www.womaenscaucus.org for registration and more information.
Source: 9/10/2008 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. Chris Douglas, Lerry Fogle, Bob Gross, Jon Kobel, Karin Krog, Janis Pyle, Ken Kline Smeltzer, Callie Surber, Dana Weaver, and Jane Yount contributed to this report.
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board, cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. Chris Douglas, Lerry Fogle, Bob Gross, Jon Kobel, Karin Krog, Janis Pyle, Ken Kline Smeltzer, Callie Surber, Dana Weaver, and Jane Yount contributed to this report.
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
Newsline Extra: Update on Disaster Response
- Children's Disaster Services pre-positions volunteers in Louisiana.
- Brethren Disaster Ministries volunteers evacuate Chalmette, La.
- Hurricane Gustav not a Katrina repeat, but still destructive.
- Church World Service disaster response kits are needed.
- Emergency Disaster Fund accepts donations toward Gustav response.
Children's Disaster Services pre-positions volunteers in Louisiana.
While the rest of the country was preparing for their Labor Day barbeques, residents along the northern Gulf Coast were preparing for Hurricane Gustav--and 18 Children’s Disaster Services volunteers were on their way to Louisiana to set up child care services in American Red Cross shelters.
As early as Friday, Aug. 29, Children’s Disaster Services staff and regional coordinators were on the phone recruiting volunteers for pre-positioned teams in Shreveport and Alexandria, La. The teams arrived on Sunday, Aug. 31. Some of them even rode out the storm in Alexandria--and by Monday they began caring for children who had fled the storm with their families.
(See Children's Disaster Services aids families affected by Gustav for more details.)
Source: 9/3/2008 Newsline Extra
While the rest of the country was preparing for their Labor Day barbeques, residents along the northern Gulf Coast were preparing for Hurricane Gustav--and 18 Children’s Disaster Services volunteers were on their way to Louisiana to set up child care services in American Red Cross shelters.
As early as Friday, Aug. 29, Children’s Disaster Services staff and regional coordinators were on the phone recruiting volunteers for pre-positioned teams in Shreveport and Alexandria, La. The teams arrived on Sunday, Aug. 31. Some of them even rode out the storm in Alexandria--and by Monday they began caring for children who had fled the storm with their families.
(See Children's Disaster Services aids families affected by Gustav for more details.)
Source: 9/3/2008 Newsline Extra
Brethren Disaster Ministries volunteers evacuate Chalmette, La.
As it became clear that Hurricane Gustav was heading straight for Louisiana, Brethren Disaster Ministries staff at the Hurricane Katrina rebuilding project in Chalmette, La., heeded evacuation orders.
Project leaders John and Mary Mueller, Amy Fishburn, and Steve Keim followed the mandatory evacuation order issued by the St. Bernard Parish government, but first they battened down the hatches at the volunteer house in Arabi. The group also packed up all of the Brethren Disaster Ministries equipment that they could and hauled it up to McComb, Miss., for temporary shelter.
The Muellers and Keim evacuated to Atlanta, where the Muellers have relatives. They are expected to be able return to Chalmette today, Sept. 3. Only first responders have been allowed back into the area up to now. Fishburn has been reassigned to the Brethren Disaster Ministries project site in Rushford, Minn., for the remainder of her term in Brethren Volunteer Service.
The good news is that the Chalmette area was not flooded, reported Zach Wolgemuth, associate director of Brethren Disaster Ministries. However, the project leaders are still advised to check with parish officials about water quality.
"We anticipate that the next volunteer group can still arrive on Sunday, but they should be aware that we probably won't have air conditioning for awhile", Wolgemuth said.
Source: 9/3/2008 Newsline Extra
As it became clear that Hurricane Gustav was heading straight for Louisiana, Brethren Disaster Ministries staff at the Hurricane Katrina rebuilding project in Chalmette, La., heeded evacuation orders.
Project leaders John and Mary Mueller, Amy Fishburn, and Steve Keim followed the mandatory evacuation order issued by the St. Bernard Parish government, but first they battened down the hatches at the volunteer house in Arabi. The group also packed up all of the Brethren Disaster Ministries equipment that they could and hauled it up to McComb, Miss., for temporary shelter.
The Muellers and Keim evacuated to Atlanta, where the Muellers have relatives. They are expected to be able return to Chalmette today, Sept. 3. Only first responders have been allowed back into the area up to now. Fishburn has been reassigned to the Brethren Disaster Ministries project site in Rushford, Minn., for the remainder of her term in Brethren Volunteer Service.
The good news is that the Chalmette area was not flooded, reported Zach Wolgemuth, associate director of Brethren Disaster Ministries. However, the project leaders are still advised to check with parish officials about water quality.
"We anticipate that the next volunteer group can still arrive on Sunday, but they should be aware that we probably won't have air conditioning for awhile", Wolgemuth said.
Source: 9/3/2008 Newsline Extra
Hurricane Gustav not a Katrina repeat, but still destructive.
On the heels of the third anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, Gustav made landfall around noon on Sept. 1 as a Category 2 storm with sustained winds of up to 110 miles per hour. As floodwaters splashed over levees in New Orleans, and residents bravely volunteered to sandbag the base of a leaking levee, the nation held its collective breath, hoping and praying that this would not be Katrina’s encore performance.
Thankfully, it wasn’t. Although the levees remained relatively intact, Gustav still packed a powerful punch. Seven deaths in Louisiana and 93 in Haiti and the Dominican Republic can be blamed on this deadly storm. Communities across the Louisiana and Mississippi coast and the Florida panhandle were flooded and received wind damage, and at least 2,000 homes were affected.
Zack Rosenburg, director of the St. Bernard Project--the Hurricane Katrina recovery agency in Chalmette, La., wrote in his blog that the Gustav aftermath "is truly a best case scenario.... Residents can return and know they will be safe." He also issued a reminder that there are still 1,800 families affected by Hurricane Katrina who are living in FEMA trailers in St. Bernard Parish. "I just ask that we don’t lose sight of the fact that we have not escaped Katrina yet," he said.
Source: 9/3/2008 Newsline Extra
On the heels of the third anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, Gustav made landfall around noon on Sept. 1 as a Category 2 storm with sustained winds of up to 110 miles per hour. As floodwaters splashed over levees in New Orleans, and residents bravely volunteered to sandbag the base of a leaking levee, the nation held its collective breath, hoping and praying that this would not be Katrina’s encore performance.
Thankfully, it wasn’t. Although the levees remained relatively intact, Gustav still packed a powerful punch. Seven deaths in Louisiana and 93 in Haiti and the Dominican Republic can be blamed on this deadly storm. Communities across the Louisiana and Mississippi coast and the Florida panhandle were flooded and received wind damage, and at least 2,000 homes were affected.
Zack Rosenburg, director of the St. Bernard Project--the Hurricane Katrina recovery agency in Chalmette, La., wrote in his blog that the Gustav aftermath "is truly a best case scenario.... Residents can return and know they will be safe." He also issued a reminder that there are still 1,800 families affected by Hurricane Katrina who are living in FEMA trailers in St. Bernard Parish. "I just ask that we don’t lose sight of the fact that we have not escaped Katrina yet," he said.
Source: 9/3/2008 Newsline Extra
Church World Service disaster response kits are needed.
Church World Service (CWS), a longtime disaster relief partner of the Church of the Brethren, reported that it pre-positioned material resources and disaster relief kits at a warehouse in Ferncliff, Ark., in preparation for Hurricane Gustav. The agency is now prepared to fulfill requests from partners for CWS Emergency Blankets, Baby Kits, Hygiene Kits, and Clean-Up Buckets as needs arise.
Brethren are invited to help contribute kits to this response. Information about kit contents and directions for assembling kits are at www.churchworldservice.org/kits. Many of these kits are processed, warehoused, and shipped from the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md.
Source: 9/3/2008 Newsline Extra
Church World Service (CWS), a longtime disaster relief partner of the Church of the Brethren, reported that it pre-positioned material resources and disaster relief kits at a warehouse in Ferncliff, Ark., in preparation for Hurricane Gustav. The agency is now prepared to fulfill requests from partners for CWS Emergency Blankets, Baby Kits, Hygiene Kits, and Clean-Up Buckets as needs arise.
Brethren are invited to help contribute kits to this response. Information about kit contents and directions for assembling kits are at www.churchworldservice.org/kits. Many of these kits are processed, warehoused, and shipped from the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md.
Source: 9/3/2008 Newsline Extra
Emergency Disaster Fund accepts donations toward Gustav response.
The work of Brethren Disaster Ministries and Children’s Disaster Services is supported by gifts to the Emergency Disaster Fund of the Church of the Brethren. The fund is accepting donations toward the Hurricane Gustav response.
To donate by mail, make checks payable to Emergency Disaster Fund, and send to Church of the Brethren, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120. Go to https://secure.brethren.org/donation/index.php?catid=9 to donate online.
Source: 9/3/2008 Newsline Extra
The work of Brethren Disaster Ministries and Children’s Disaster Services is supported by gifts to the Emergency Disaster Fund of the Church of the Brethren. The fund is accepting donations toward the Hurricane Gustav response.
To donate by mail, make checks payable to Emergency Disaster Fund, and send to Church of the Brethren, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120. Go to https://secure.brethren.org/donation/index.php?catid=9 to donate online.
Source: 9/3/2008 Newsline Extra
Credits
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren, cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. This entire special report was prepared by Jane Yount, Brethren Disaster Ministries coordinator, working out of the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md.
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren, cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. This entire special report was prepared by Jane Yount, Brethren Disaster Ministries coordinator, working out of the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md.
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
Children's Disaster Services Aids Families Affected By Gustav
What happens to the children when a city like New Orleans is evacuated? They leave all that is familiar, and many take refuge with their families in a shelter, sleeping on cots placed close together to house as many people as possible. There are no toys except what they were able to bring at a moment’s notice, and no space to play.
Children's Disaster Services is there to help.
Children's Disaster Services has set up child care centers in three “super shelters” for those fleeing Hurricane Gustav, at the invitation of the American Red Cross. As of today, 14 volunteers with Children’s Disaster Services have been deployed to two shelters each housing thousands of people in Alexandria and Shreveport in Louisiana. A group of 16 more volunteers are packed and ready to go to shelters in Jackson and Hattiesburg in Mississippi.
The program already has received additional requests for 20 more volunteers to serve in other child care centers.
Children's Disaster Services is a program of the Church of the Brethren Disaster Ministries. It is the oldest and largest nationwide organization specializing in children’s disaster related needs, and since 1980 has been working with children following disasters.
Arriving with a suitcase full of toys, the specially trained volunteers work in teams to provide a warm, comforting presence for children. The care centers become spaces designed especially for children to be able to be themselves. While safety is the highest priority for these child care centers, the Children’s Disaster Services volunteers also provide lots of individual attention for each child, and plenty of understanding to go around.
Due to the size of the evacuation from Hurricane Gustav, the entire nationwide base of volunteers for Children’s Disaster Services has been put on alert. More volunteers are standing by, ready to respond when and where they are needed.
Each team of volunteers stays in a shelter for up to two weeks, and then is relieved by a new team. With a volunteer base of more than 500 trained and certified volunteers, child care can be provided for children of disaster survivors as long as it is needed.
To become certified with Children's Disaster Services, volunteers participate in a 27-hour experiential training to learn about children’s special needs after a disaster, and how to work with children and families to provide a safe and secure environment in shelters and other situations following a disaster. The volunteers undergo a rigorous screening process before they can be called to respond either locally or nationally.
How can Brethren help in this effort? Staff are suggesting the following ways:
Source: 9/2/2008 Newsline Special
What happens to the children when a city like New Orleans is evacuated? They leave all that is familiar, and many take refuge with their families in a shelter, sleeping on cots placed close together to house as many people as possible. There are no toys except what they were able to bring at a moment’s notice, and no space to play.
Children's Disaster Services is there to help.
Children's Disaster Services has set up child care centers in three “super shelters” for those fleeing Hurricane Gustav, at the invitation of the American Red Cross. As of today, 14 volunteers with Children’s Disaster Services have been deployed to two shelters each housing thousands of people in Alexandria and Shreveport in Louisiana. A group of 16 more volunteers are packed and ready to go to shelters in Jackson and Hattiesburg in Mississippi.
The program already has received additional requests for 20 more volunteers to serve in other child care centers.
Children's Disaster Services is a program of the Church of the Brethren Disaster Ministries. It is the oldest and largest nationwide organization specializing in children’s disaster related needs, and since 1980 has been working with children following disasters.
Arriving with a suitcase full of toys, the specially trained volunteers work in teams to provide a warm, comforting presence for children. The care centers become spaces designed especially for children to be able to be themselves. While safety is the highest priority for these child care centers, the Children’s Disaster Services volunteers also provide lots of individual attention for each child, and plenty of understanding to go around.
Due to the size of the evacuation from Hurricane Gustav, the entire nationwide base of volunteers for Children’s Disaster Services has been put on alert. More volunteers are standing by, ready to respond when and where they are needed.
Each team of volunteers stays in a shelter for up to two weeks, and then is relieved by a new team. With a volunteer base of more than 500 trained and certified volunteers, child care can be provided for children of disaster survivors as long as it is needed.
To become certified with Children's Disaster Services, volunteers participate in a 27-hour experiential training to learn about children’s special needs after a disaster, and how to work with children and families to provide a safe and secure environment in shelters and other situations following a disaster. The volunteers undergo a rigorous screening process before they can be called to respond either locally or nationally.
How can Brethren help in this effort? Staff are suggesting the following ways:
- Support families who have had to flee their homes with prayer, and pray also for volunteers and staff of Children’s Disaster Services. Pray for those sheltering in Alexandria and Shrevesport, and for the volunteers who are caring for children there. Pray for those sheltering in Jackson and Hattiesburg, and for safe travel for child care teams preparing to go to those shelters.
- Contribute to the cost of placing volunteers in the Hurricane Gustav shelters, through donations to the Emergency Disaster Fund. The fund is a ministry of the Church of the Brethren. Donate online at https://secure.brethren.org/donation/index.php?catid=9 or send donations to Emergency Disaster Fund, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120.
- A need for more Clean Up Bucket kits is anticipated, following the hurricane damage in southwest Louisiana, and the flooding in parts of New Orleans. Brethren congregations and individuals are encouraged to consider preparing and donating these kits, which are warehoused at the Brethren Service Center on behalf of Church World Service. Go to www.churchworldservice.org/kits/cleanup-kits.html for a contents list and shipping address.
- Consider attending a training workshop to become a Children’s Disaster Services volunteer. This fall, Level I Training Workshops are offered on Sept. 18-20 at Los Altos (Calif.) United Methodist Church; on Sept. 22-24 at First United Methodist Church in Reno, Nev.; on Oct. 3-4 at the American Red Cross in Everett, Wash., and in Tacoma, Wash.; and on Oct. 10-11 at the Holiday Inn in Evansville, Ind.
Source: 9/2/2008 Newsline Special
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. Dean Garrett, Jeff Lennard, and David Sollenberger 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. Dean Garrett, Jeff Lennard, and David Sollenberger contributed to this report.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
National Young Adult Conference meets in the mountains of Colorado.
About 130 people worshiped, conversed, and enjoyed the outdoors at this year’s Church of the Brethren National Young Adult Conference (NYAC) in Estes Park, Colo.
The schedule was built around worship, with morning and evening celebrations on the theme "Come to the Mountain: Guidance for the Journey" each day of the Aug. 11-15 event. Leaders for those times included a mix of young adults and denominational staff, each addressing a key word such as "honesty," "credibility," or "grace."
Several speakers looked at issues currently confronting Brethren. Videographer Dave Sollenberger of Annville, Pa., highlighted both examples of faithfulness and credibility in the church and places where the church has come up short. "It’s very easy to buy into the lies our culture has taught us," Sollenberger said.
On Thursday evening, in a drizzly outdoor service, On Earth Peace peace witness coordinator Matt Guynn looked at the conflict and differences that exist among Brethren. He suggested that the "push-pull" process can be dynamic and healthy, moving the church out of being "stuck" and stagnant. "We in the church need to engage in the push and the pull together," said Guynn, who also spoke at the closing service.
Kayla Camps, a young adult leader from Florida, challenged the group to work toward integrity. "The more of God we have in our everyday choices, the more just our society will become," she said.
Other worship leaders included general secretary Stan Noffsinger; Imperial Heights Church of the Brethren (Los Angeles) pastor Thomas Dowdy; Laura Stone, a young adult currently volunteering at Gould Farm in Massachusetts; and "Messenger" editor Walt Wiltschek.
Young adults delved further into some of the issues raised during a variety of workshops and community group times. Topics ranged from media and ministry to more controversial issues in the church, such as homosexuality and biblical interpretation. Staff from numerous Brethren agencies also shared about their work.
Less structured times included opportunities for salsa dancing, ultimate frisbee, volleyball, hiking, roller skating, and other options at the host YMCA of the Rockies. Several dozen people took part in service projects one afternoon, assisting with tasks such as staining fences and pulling invasive thistles. Late-evening open microphone sessions offered abundant music and laughter.
Bekah Houff, a Brethren Volunteer Service worker in the Youth and Young Adult Ministry Office, served as coordinator for the conference with the help of the Young Adult Steering Committee. Jim Chinworth and Becky Ullom were worship coordinators, and Shawn Kirchner provided musical leadership.
--Walt Wiltschek is editor of the Church of the Brethren's "Messenger" magazine.
Source: 8/27/2008 Newsline
About 130 people worshiped, conversed, and enjoyed the outdoors at this year’s Church of the Brethren National Young Adult Conference (NYAC) in Estes Park, Colo.
The schedule was built around worship, with morning and evening celebrations on the theme "Come to the Mountain: Guidance for the Journey" each day of the Aug. 11-15 event. Leaders for those times included a mix of young adults and denominational staff, each addressing a key word such as "honesty," "credibility," or "grace."
Several speakers looked at issues currently confronting Brethren. Videographer Dave Sollenberger of Annville, Pa., highlighted both examples of faithfulness and credibility in the church and places where the church has come up short. "It’s very easy to buy into the lies our culture has taught us," Sollenberger said.
On Thursday evening, in a drizzly outdoor service, On Earth Peace peace witness coordinator Matt Guynn looked at the conflict and differences that exist among Brethren. He suggested that the "push-pull" process can be dynamic and healthy, moving the church out of being "stuck" and stagnant. "We in the church need to engage in the push and the pull together," said Guynn, who also spoke at the closing service.
Kayla Camps, a young adult leader from Florida, challenged the group to work toward integrity. "The more of God we have in our everyday choices, the more just our society will become," she said.
Other worship leaders included general secretary Stan Noffsinger; Imperial Heights Church of the Brethren (Los Angeles) pastor Thomas Dowdy; Laura Stone, a young adult currently volunteering at Gould Farm in Massachusetts; and "Messenger" editor Walt Wiltschek.
Young adults delved further into some of the issues raised during a variety of workshops and community group times. Topics ranged from media and ministry to more controversial issues in the church, such as homosexuality and biblical interpretation. Staff from numerous Brethren agencies also shared about their work.
Less structured times included opportunities for salsa dancing, ultimate frisbee, volleyball, hiking, roller skating, and other options at the host YMCA of the Rockies. Several dozen people took part in service projects one afternoon, assisting with tasks such as staining fences and pulling invasive thistles. Late-evening open microphone sessions offered abundant music and laughter.
Bekah Houff, a Brethren Volunteer Service worker in the Youth and Young Adult Ministry Office, served as coordinator for the conference with the help of the Young Adult Steering Committee. Jim Chinworth and Becky Ullom were worship coordinators, and Shawn Kirchner provided musical leadership.
--Walt Wiltschek is editor of the Church of the Brethren's "Messenger" magazine.
Source: 8/27/2008 Newsline
Annual Conference Council holds final meeting.
The Annual Conference Council met for its final meeting on Aug. 18 at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. As of Sept. 1, the council will be dissolved and its functions will be transferred to the new denominational Leadership Team of the Church of the Brethren.
In addition to the council’s members, Stan Noffsinger, general secretary, participated to begin the transition to the Leadership Team. The Leadership Team, beginning Sept. 1, will include Annual Conference moderator David Shumate and moderator-elect Shawn Replogle, Annual Conference secretary Fred Swartz, and Noffsinger.
The council conducted its usual follow-up on the actions of the 2008 Annual Conference, noting where reminders needed to be sent to people or groups responsible for implementing the actions of the Conference. The council authorized a letter to members of the Implementation Committee expressing appreciation for their work in designing the new Church of the Brethren structure. It also encouraged the Conference officers to discuss how Standing Committee may receive training for handling appeals, and it directed letters to be sent to both Brethren Benefit Trust staff and Church of the Brethren staff encouraging them to give attention to the suggestions made in the Resolution on Ministers’ Medical Crisis. The council noted that the Program and Arrangements Committee already has the concerns of the Query on Annual Conference Witness to Host Cities on its agenda.
The council discussed a number of matters that it will pass on to the Leadership Team, including the coordination of envisioning for the denomination, updating the Church of the Brethren bylaws, updating the Manual of Organization and Polity, and deciding how appeals related to Program and Arrangements Committee guidelines will be handled in the future.
As its last function as the Annual Conference Council, the group conducted a performance review for Annual Conference executive director Lerry Fogle, enthusiastically affirming his work and his commitment to the church, to his family, and to Christ. Noffsinger shared with the council that the hiring of an executive to replace Fogle when he retires Dec. 5, 2009, will be handled by the Human Resources process of the Church of the Brethren. The plan includes having a new executive in place in time to receive on-the-job training at the 2009 Annual Conference.
--Fred Swartz is the secretary of the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference.
Source: 8/27/2008 Newsline
The Annual Conference Council met for its final meeting on Aug. 18 at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. As of Sept. 1, the council will be dissolved and its functions will be transferred to the new denominational Leadership Team of the Church of the Brethren.
In addition to the council’s members, Stan Noffsinger, general secretary, participated to begin the transition to the Leadership Team. The Leadership Team, beginning Sept. 1, will include Annual Conference moderator David Shumate and moderator-elect Shawn Replogle, Annual Conference secretary Fred Swartz, and Noffsinger.
The council conducted its usual follow-up on the actions of the 2008 Annual Conference, noting where reminders needed to be sent to people or groups responsible for implementing the actions of the Conference. The council authorized a letter to members of the Implementation Committee expressing appreciation for their work in designing the new Church of the Brethren structure. It also encouraged the Conference officers to discuss how Standing Committee may receive training for handling appeals, and it directed letters to be sent to both Brethren Benefit Trust staff and Church of the Brethren staff encouraging them to give attention to the suggestions made in the Resolution on Ministers’ Medical Crisis. The council noted that the Program and Arrangements Committee already has the concerns of the Query on Annual Conference Witness to Host Cities on its agenda.
The council discussed a number of matters that it will pass on to the Leadership Team, including the coordination of envisioning for the denomination, updating the Church of the Brethren bylaws, updating the Manual of Organization and Polity, and deciding how appeals related to Program and Arrangements Committee guidelines will be handled in the future.
As its last function as the Annual Conference Council, the group conducted a performance review for Annual Conference executive director Lerry Fogle, enthusiastically affirming his work and his commitment to the church, to his family, and to Christ. Noffsinger shared with the council that the hiring of an executive to replace Fogle when he retires Dec. 5, 2009, will be handled by the Human Resources process of the Church of the Brethren. The plan includes having a new executive in place in time to receive on-the-job training at the 2009 Annual Conference.
--Fred Swartz is the secretary of the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference.
Source: 8/27/2008 Newsline
Disabilities Ministry issues statement on movie ‘Tropic Thunder.’
The Church of the Brethren Disabilities Ministry has issued a statement on the recently released movie, "Tropic Thunder." The statement is made in support of people with intellectual disabilities, said Kathy Reid, executive director of the denomination’s Caring Ministries.
"Tropic Thunder" is a DreamWorks production directed by and starring Ben Stiller, released on Aug. 13. A portion of the plot is a fictional film, "Simple Jack," about a farmer with intellectual disabilities who is played by the Stiller character.
"While some people think labeling and humiliating others is funny, we believe such behavior is abusive and should not be considered acceptable," the Disabilities Ministry statement said in part, adding that the group is "appalled" by the movie. "Under the guise of ‘parody,’ ‘Tropic Thunder’ insults and harms individuals with intellectual disabilities by repeated use of the ‘R-word.’ The movie perpetuates derogatory images and stereotypes of these individuals by mocking their physical appearance and speech, perpetuating inappropriate myths and misperceptions, and legitimizing painful discrimination, exclusion, and bullying."
The Disabilities Ministry is led by a committee including Pat Challenger, Heddie Sumner, Karen Walters, Brett Winchester, and Kathy Reid as staff representative. Go to www.brethren.org/abc/disabilities/2008DisabilitiesStatement.pdf for the full text of the statement. Go to www.brethren.org/abc/disabilities/index.html for more information about the Church of the Brethren Disabilities Ministry.
Source: 8/27/2008 Newsline
The Church of the Brethren Disabilities Ministry has issued a statement on the recently released movie, "Tropic Thunder." The statement is made in support of people with intellectual disabilities, said Kathy Reid, executive director of the denomination’s Caring Ministries.
"Tropic Thunder" is a DreamWorks production directed by and starring Ben Stiller, released on Aug. 13. A portion of the plot is a fictional film, "Simple Jack," about a farmer with intellectual disabilities who is played by the Stiller character.
"While some people think labeling and humiliating others is funny, we believe such behavior is abusive and should not be considered acceptable," the Disabilities Ministry statement said in part, adding that the group is "appalled" by the movie. "Under the guise of ‘parody,’ ‘Tropic Thunder’ insults and harms individuals with intellectual disabilities by repeated use of the ‘R-word.’ The movie perpetuates derogatory images and stereotypes of these individuals by mocking their physical appearance and speech, perpetuating inappropriate myths and misperceptions, and legitimizing painful discrimination, exclusion, and bullying."
The Disabilities Ministry is led by a committee including Pat Challenger, Heddie Sumner, Karen Walters, Brett Winchester, and Kathy Reid as staff representative. Go to www.brethren.org/abc/disabilities/2008DisabilitiesStatement.pdf for the full text of the statement. Go to www.brethren.org/abc/disabilities/index.html for more information about the Church of the Brethren Disabilities Ministry.
Source: 8/27/2008 Newsline
Brethren bits: Corrections, personnel, jobs, Hurricane Katrina, more.
- Corrections: Brethren Press has been informed that the price announced in the Newsline Special of Aug. 26 for the book, "Schwarzenau 1708-2008," is incorrect--the correct price is still to be determined. Also, the Young Adult Conference dates announced in Newsline were incorrect. Correct dates for next year's Young Adult Conference are May 23-25, 2009.
- Beth Gunzel on July 24 completed four years as consultant to the Church of the Brethren’s Micro-Loan Community Development Program in the Dominican Republic. The ministry reaches 19 communities with 500 loans for economic development. She recently began transitioning the program to Dominican leadership. Gunzel holds a Master of Urban Planning and Policy degree from the University of Illinois-Chicago.
- There have been several staffing changes among Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) workers at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill.: Monica Rice has completed a term as assistant to the director of BVS, and will attend Bethany Theological Seminary this fall. Sharon Flaten and Jerry O’Donnell have completed their work as assistant coordinators of the Workcamp Program, and Flaten has begun a new term of service as recruitment assistant in BVS. O’Donnell will be traveling to the Dominican Republic to serve as assistant to Brethren mission coordinators Nancy and Irvin Heishman. Emily Laprade and Meghan Horne have begun as assistant coordinators for the Workcamp Program for 2008-09. Laprade attended Bridgewater (Va.) College and is a member of Antioch Church of the Brethren. Horne attended UNC at Chapel Hill and is a member of Mill Creek Church of the Brethren.
- Susan Chapman, program director at Camp Bethel from 2002-08, will be honored at a Labor Day Family Weekend at the camp in Fincastle, Va. The recognition will take place at the potluck dinner on Aug. 31, at 5:30 p.m. "During Susan's tenure at Camp Bethel, summer camps grew 51 percent!" said camp director Barry LeNoir. Gifts, notes of appreciation, and requests for camp song lyrics for Chapman may be sent to skc002@gmail.com or to 3228 Pasley Ave., SW, Roanoke, VA 24015-4422.
- Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Ind., is seeking applicants for the position of academic dean. The seminary seeks to make an appointment by or before July 1, 2009. The academic dean assists in the management of the seminary with and on behalf of the president. The dean provides administrative oversight for Bethany’s graduate and certificate programs with direct responsibility for the graduate curriculum. The dean also works with administrative colleagues who have immediate responsibility for certificate educational programs and the developing program in distributed education. The position provides the dean opportunity to teach part time. Preferred qualifications for appointment include an earned doctoral degree, five or more years of teaching experience, and commitment to academic innovation and excellence; administrative skill: personnel relations, program oversight, including distributed education, and budget management; membership in the Church of the Brethren with commitment to the church’s beliefs, practices, and heritage; and excitement about and dedication to preparing people for Christian ministry and educating those called as witnesses to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Founded in 1905, Bethany Theological Seminary is the graduate school and academy of the Church of the Brethren. The seminary seeks to prepare people for Christian ministry and to educate those called as Christian leaders and scholars. In the context of the whole Christian tradition, Bethany’s educational program bears witness to the belief and practices of the Church of the Brethren, including community, peace, justice, reconciliation, service, and simplicity. Bethany’s student body includes graduate and certificate students, residential and distance students, who have diverse theological perspectives and vocational directions. In partnership with the Earlham School of Religion, Bethany is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools in the US and Canada and by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. The seminary is an equal-opportunity employer and welcomes applications from persons who can enhance the diversity of the community. Review of applications will begin Oct. 31. Interested persons should submit a letter of application and curriculum vitae, and request three people to send letters of recommendation. Electronic submissions of materials are preferred at Academicdeansearch@bethanyseminary.edu or mail materials to the Office of the President, Bethany Theological Seminary, 615 National Rd. W., Richmond, IN 47374.
- Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT) seeks to fill the position of chief financial officer (CFO). This is a fulltime salaried position based in Elgin, Ill., for a not-for-profit organization that provides pension, insurance, foundation, and credit union services for 6,000 members and clients nationwide. This second-level management position reports to the president of BBT. Brethren Benefit Trust is an agency of the Church of the Brethren. The CFO’s chief responsibility is to safeguard BBT’s assets and assets under management. The CFO provides oversight of the Finance Department, the budgeting process, the annual audit and audit functions, BBT’s investment managers, and the organization’s compliance issues. The scope of the CFO’s duties includes to work with each program unit to develop the annual budget and then monitor all expenses against the budget. The CFO serves on the senior management team and is charged with planning strategically to help ensure that each BBT ministry meets the needs of members and clients and is self-sustaining. The CFO manages all aspects of the organization’s work and relationships with BBT’s custodian, investment managers, audit firm, and related consultants, and serves as the staff liaison to the BBT Board’s Investment and Budget and Audit Review Committees. The CFO coordinates all of BBT’s tax filings and the organization’s insurance needs. The CFO ensures that BBT remain compliant with all applicable organizational and industry-related laws, policies, procedures, rules, and regulations. The CFO travels to the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference, BBT Board meetings, and other denominational events as needed. BBT seeks candidates with undergraduate degrees in accounting, business, or related fields, along with advanced certifications or degrees such as CPA or MBA. Candidates should have eight years of experience in finance, administration, and personnel supervision, preferably for not-for-profit organizations. Strong knowledge of investments and experience in business planning is desired. Current and active membership in the Church of the Brethren is preferred; current and active membership in a faith community is required. Salary is competitive with Church Benefits Association agencies of comparable size and scope of services. A full benefits package is included. Apply by sending a letter of interest, resume, three references (one from a supervisor, one from a colleague, and one from a friend), and salary-range expectation to Donna March, 1505 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120; or dmarch_bbt@brethren.org. For questions or clarification about the position, call 847-622-3371. For more information about Brethren Benefit Trust, visit www.brethrenbenefittrust.org. The application deadline is Oct. 6.
- Brethren Benefit Trust seeks a director of communications to serve in a fulltime salaried position based in Elgin, Ill. This second-level management position reports to the president of BBT. The director of communications provides oversight of communications, marketing, promotional, and operational initiatives that undergird BBT’s ministries. The scope of the director's duties includes overseeing the department that produces newsletters, fliers, mailings, advertisements, a family of websites, promotional and operational materials, videos, and other resources to meet the various needs of BBT and its individual departments. The director supervises the manager of publications, the production coordinator, and the marketing coordinator. The director is a member of BBT's senior management team and is responsible for establishing the organization’s editorial policies and guidelines. The director of communications travels to the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference, BBT Board meetings, and other denominational events as needed. BBT seeks candidates with undergraduate degrees in communications, English, business, or related fields. Candidates should have a minimum of five years of professional experience in editorial, marketing, promotions, administration, and/or personnel supervision. Candidates need to be articulate writers and public presenters. Knowledge of and interest in business and financial investments is helpful. Current and active membership in the Church of the Brethren is preferred; current and active membership in a faith community is required. Salary is competitive with Church Benefits Association agencies of comparable size and scope of services. A full benefits package is included. Apply by sending a letter of interest, resume, three references (one from a supervisor, one from a colleague, one from a friend), and salary-range expectation to Donna March, 1505 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120, or dmarch_bbt@brethren.org. For questions or clarification about the position, call 847-622-3371. For more information about Brethren Benefit Trust, visit www.brethrenbenefittrust.org. The application deadline is Oct. 6.
- Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Ind., seeks a half time associate for its Institutional Advancement Department. Primary responsibilities include visiting with donors in selected geographical areas, representing Bethany at conferences and church gatherings, and working with the advancement team to plan and implement constituent relations and fundraising activities. Half the time of this position needs to be in travel, sometimes on weekends. Prior fundraising experience is not required, but best-suited candidates will enjoy creative and fruitful interpersonal conversation as well as be comfortable speaking in public settings. Candidates should also be prepared to learn about funding approaches and strategies, and to develop skill and astuteness in assessing donor circumstances and matching appropriate approaches with donors. Candidates must be familiar with the Church of the Brethren, be committed to leadership development for a changing church, and have instinctive sensitivity for realities of congregational life and ministry challenges in congregations. Minimum educational preparation is a baccalaureate degree, with a master of divinity degree helpful. Send resumes as soon as possible to Lowell Flory, Bethany Theological Seminary, 615 National Rd. W., Richmond, IN 47374; or florylo@bethanyseminary.edu. Review of resumes will begin by Sept. 29 and applications will continue to be received until the position is filled. Bethany is an equal opportunity employer.
- Camp Bethel, a ministry of Virlina District located near Fincastle, Va., is accepting resumes and applications for the following positions, for dependable, caring workers with good interpersonal and leadership skills: assistant director (fulltime), food services director (fulltime), administrative assistant (part-time), cooks (part-time), and resident volunteers. Application forms, position descriptions, and more information about each position are available at www.campbethelvirginia.org/jobs.htm or call 540-992-2940. Send a letter of interest and updated resume to Camp Bethel director Barry LeNoir at camp.bethel@juno.com.
- Many across the nation are remembering the third anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, including Church of the Brethren disaster relief volunteers and staff who have worked to rebuild homes destroyed in the storm. Zach Wolgemuth, associate director of Brethren Disaster Ministries, also has been involved in an ecumenical program called Churches Supporting Churches, which is bringing together partners from across the country in an effort to rebuild the church communities of New Orleans. "Prior to a recent meeting, a local pastor approached me and handed me a pecan nut," Wolgemuth wrote in a reflection on the disaster relief work. "He said that he wanted me to carry the nut with me to remind me that a nut is also a seed, and at times being a little ‘nuts’ is just what God has called us to be. In this vein, Brethren Disaster Ministries thanks all volunteers, who as ‘nuts’ have been seeds of hope to numerous survivors struggling to recover from disasters. May God bless you this day with a touch of insanity so that you too may be a ‘nut,’ sowing seeds of hope, love, peace, and justice in the name of Christ the risen Lord."
- The 2008 National Older Adult Conference (NOAC) begins on Sept. 1 at Lake Junaluska (N.C.) Assembly. For the news team’s onsite reports, see www.brethren-caregivers.org.
- "Judgment and Hope" is the Gather 'Round theme for the fall. The Gather ’Round Sunday school curriculum is produced jointly by Brethren Press and the Mennonite Publishing Network. Bible stories for the Fall quarter, which starts Aug. 31, focus on the stories of Israel’s history through prophets and kings. Gather ’Round also has launched a new website feature called "Ask Anna," a Q&A column with answers to questions that have come to the curriculum staff. Users of the curriculum are invited to submit questions, and the content will be changed weekly. This week’s question, for example, is signed by "Teaching Tuneless," and asks, "I teach a small youth class. My kids don’t like to sing from the hymnal--actually they don’t like singing at all. What do I do?" Go to www.gatherround.org for the answer from Gather ’Round project director and editor Anna Speicher, and to see the complete line-up of Gather 'Round products. Order Gather ’Round curriculum from Brethren Press at 800-441-3712.
- Children's Disaster Services has three Level 1 Volunteer Workshops planned for October. The workshops are required for anyone who volunteers with the program to care for children following disasters. Workshops will take place on Oct. 3-4 at the American Red Cross, 2530 Lombard Ave., Everett, Wash.; on Oct. 3-4 in Tacoma, Wash. (location to be announced); and on Oct. 10-11 at the Holiday Inn Evansville Conference Center, 4101 Highway 41 N., Evansville, Ind. Children’s Disaster Services is a Church of the Brethren program in which volunteers provide a calm, safe, and reassuring presence in the midst of the chaos that follows disaster by setting up and operating special child care centers in disaster locations. Workshops are open to anyone over 18 years of age. Cost is $45 or $55 for late registration. For more see www.childrensdisasterservices.org or contact cds_gb@brethren.org or 800-451-4407 ext. 5.
- Lewiston (Minn.) Church of the Brethren holds its 150th Anniversary Celebration on Sept. 13-14. Activities include time for visiting, viewing photos and scrapbooks, historical exhibits, a cemetery walk, Saturday evening worship at 7:30 p.m. with former pastors Roger Schrock and Paul Roth, and Sunday morning worship at 10 a.m. with pastors Schrock and Roth. Meals will be served throughout the weekend, with free-will donations accepted. Proceeds beyond celebration costs will benefit a mission project of making hygiene kits for Church World Service. Submit reservations to the church by Aug. 31, send to lewistoncob@yahoo.com or call 507-523-3117.
- Oak Grove Church of the Brethren in Lowpoint, Ill., is celebrating its 125th anniversary on Oct. 12. A worship service will be held at 10:30 a.m., following by a potluck lunch, and an afternoon program at 1:30 p.m. The program will feature stories from the church’s history, greetings from former pastors and friends of the congregation, and "any other testimonies people want to give," according to church member Alberta Christ, who is publicizing the event. For more information call 309-443-5275.
- Bellefontaine (Ohio) Church of the Brethren is planning an Anniversary-Homecoming Celebration on Sept. 14, to mark the 100th anniversary of the congregation’s present church building. Events begin at 9:30 a.m. with a 300th Anniversary presentation by Mark and Mary Jo Flory-Steury, worship at 10:45 a.m. with a message by Mark Flory-Steury, executive minister for Southern Ohio District, followed by a carry-in dinner. For more information call 937-292-7191.
- Dixon (Ill.) Church of the Brethren is hosting a Spiritual Renewal Weekend on Sept. 13-14 in celebration of the congregation’s 100th anniversary and the 300th Anniversary of the Church of the Brethren. Jim Myer, an ordained minister at White Oak Church of the Brethren and a leader in the Brethren Revival Fellowship, will lead the services. Worship will take place on Saturday at 8:45 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., followed by an ice cream social, and on Sunday morning at 9:30 a.m. followed by a question and answer time and a carry-in dinner. For more information call the church at 815-284-2711.
- Chambersburg (Pa.) Church of the Brethren will celebrate its 100th anniversary with a Homecoming Service on Oct. 19. Phil Carlos, a former moderator of the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference and interim pastor at First Church of the Brethren in Brooklyn, N.Y., will be the speaker. For more information contact the church at 717-264-6957.
- Olympic View Church of the Brethren is holding a 300th Anniversary/60th Anniversary Homecoming and Rally Sunday Weekend on Sept. 6-7. The congregation will celebrate the 300th Anniversary of the Church of the Brethren and the 60th anniversary of its church building.
- Northern Ohio District is holding a Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) 60th Anniversary Celebration on Nov. 1 at County Line Church of the Brethren in Harrod, Ohio. The event begins with an Opening Celebration at 2 p.m. led by Leslie Lake, followed at 2:30 p.m. by a "Mingle and Share" time for former volunteers to bring pictures and stories of their time in BVS. A dinner follows at 5:30 p.m., cost is $5. The evening closes with a 7 p.m. Worship Celebration Concert. The celebration is not limited to BVS volunteers and former volunteers, and family and friends are invited. RSVP to Billi Janet Burkey by Oct. 24 at billijanet@aol.com or 330-418-1148 or send a response by mail to 7980 Hebron Ave. NE, Louisville, OH 44641.
- Juniata College has hired Richard Mahoney as director of the Baker Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies. He succeeds Andrew Murray in the position. Mahoney has spent the last four years as visiting professor for the New York University Stern School Program at Universidad de Palermo in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He also has taught at the Thunderbird School of Global Management in Glendale, Ariz., and has been a guest lecturer or professor at Oxford University, Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government, the Beijing Institute of Foreign Trade, and the Universidad del Pacifico in Quito, Ecuador. He has been a John F. Kennedy Presidential Scholar at the University of Massachusetts and a Kennedy Scholar at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library, and holds degrees from Princeton University, Johns Hopkins University, and Arizona State University. His political career includes serving a four-year term as the Secretary of State for Arizona, and running for the US Senate seat of Arizona and for governor of Arizona. He has worked as a speechwriter or political consultant from 1978-2002, and was chief speechwriter for the presidential campaigns of Gary Hart and Paul Simon. Mahoney is an author and film director as well, having written book on politics including "Sons and Brothers: The Days of Jack and Bobby Kennedy," and more recently has directed documentary films including "Strong at the Broken Places," with stories from the Iraq war.
- The Manchester College A Cappella Choir will sing for the Sunday morning worship service at Elkhart (Ind.) Valley Church of the Brethren on Sept. 14 at 10:30 a.m. The congregation is hosting the choir's annual organizational retreat. For more information call the church at 574-875-5802.
- The World Council of Churches (WCC) has marked its beginnings 60 years ago on Aug. 23, 1948, in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The commemoration included a select gathering at the Nieuwe Kerk where the opening service of the WCC's founding assembly took place exactly 60 years earlier, as well as the publication of a new book of essays on the ecumenical movement.
- An Ecumenical Conference on Human Trafficking will be held on Sept. 29-Oct. 1 at the Church Center for the United Nations in New York City, co-sponsored by the National Council of Churches (NCC) Justice for Women Working Group and the United Methodist Women's Division-United Methodist Seminar Program on National and International Affairs. This conference will serve as an opportunity for faith-based leaders to explore best practices and new approaches for working together to end human trafficking. The event will feature resource people from diverse fields including both secular and religious organizations, and will consider education, legislative, recovery, and social work approaches to address human trafficking, taking seriously the web of oppression that includes race, economics, and gender. Following the conference, the NCC will be collecting and developing ecumenical worship materials for use on Sunday, Jan. 11, Human Trafficking Awareness Day. The registration deadline for the conference is Sept. 15. An agenda with a list of resource presenters can be requested from atiemeyer@ncccusa.org.
- Church of the Brethren member Brian Sell gained 22nd place in the Olympic marathon on Aug. 24, with a time of 2:16:07. Gold medal winner Samuel Kamau Wansiru of Kenya won the race with a time of 2:06:32, a new Olympic record (see www.nbcolympics.com/trackandfield/resultsandschedules/rsc=ATM099100/index.html for the full results). It was Sell's first experience at the Olympics. He is a member of Woodbury (Pa.) Church of the Brethren.
Booz resigns from Mid-Atlantic District, to serve in Pacific Southwest.
Donald R. Booz has resigned as district executive minister of Mid-Atlantic District, effective Nov. 21. He has been called to serve as district executive minister of Pacific Southwest District, beginning in December.
Booz has had 28 years of experience in ministry, having served as executive for Mid-Atlantic District since 2000, and filling previous positions as district executive of the former Florida and Puerto Rico District (now Atlantic Southeast), and pastorates at McPherson, Kan., and Winter Park, Fla. He is a graduate of Shippensburg State University, Bethany Theological Seminary, and Chicago Theological Seminary, from which he earned a doctor of minister degree.
He will relocate to the La Verne, Calif., area in late November, and will attend the Pacific Southwest District Conference in Fresno, Calif., Nov. 7-9.
Source: 8/27/2008 Newsline
Donald R. Booz has resigned as district executive minister of Mid-Atlantic District, effective Nov. 21. He has been called to serve as district executive minister of Pacific Southwest District, beginning in December.
Booz has had 28 years of experience in ministry, having served as executive for Mid-Atlantic District since 2000, and filling previous positions as district executive of the former Florida and Puerto Rico District (now Atlantic Southeast), and pastorates at McPherson, Kan., and Winter Park, Fla. He is a graduate of Shippensburg State University, Bethany Theological Seminary, and Chicago Theological Seminary, from which he earned a doctor of minister degree.
He will relocate to the La Verne, Calif., area in late November, and will attend the Pacific Southwest District Conference in Fresno, Calif., Nov. 7-9.
Source: 8/27/2008 Newsline
Armenia study tour is planned for Sept. 2009.
Heifer International and the Church of the Brethren's Global Mission Partnerships are co-sponsoring a study tour to Armenia in Sept. 2009. The tour will be led by Jan Schrock, a former director of Brethren Volunteer Service and daughter of Dan West, who originally established Heifer Project as a program of the Church of the Brethren.
"It's an historic event for Brethren, harking to the remarkable engagement of Brethren with Armenians at a time of genocide almost a century ago. The response marked the entry of Brethren into overseas relief and service ministries," said Howard Royer, manager of the Church of the Brethren's Global Food Crisis Fund.
The Global Food Crisis Fund has maintained Brethren involvement with Armenia and Heifer International through a series of recent grants. The fund in 2004 gave a grant of $10,000 to Heifer for the Aigebetz "Sunrise" Project in Armenia, that helped orphaned teens who were no longer eligible for government support to become established with land, housing, training, and livestock. In 2006, a $10,000 grant to Heifer helped develop a Rural Women's Union in Armenia, networking women heads of households engaged in subsistent farming. Currently the fund supports the PASS Program in Armenia through a partnership with the Foods Resource Bank.
Source: 8/27/2008 Newsline
Heifer International and the Church of the Brethren's Global Mission Partnerships are co-sponsoring a study tour to Armenia in Sept. 2009. The tour will be led by Jan Schrock, a former director of Brethren Volunteer Service and daughter of Dan West, who originally established Heifer Project as a program of the Church of the Brethren.
"It's an historic event for Brethren, harking to the remarkable engagement of Brethren with Armenians at a time of genocide almost a century ago. The response marked the entry of Brethren into overseas relief and service ministries," said Howard Royer, manager of the Church of the Brethren's Global Food Crisis Fund.
The Global Food Crisis Fund has maintained Brethren involvement with Armenia and Heifer International through a series of recent grants. The fund in 2004 gave a grant of $10,000 to Heifer for the Aigebetz "Sunrise" Project in Armenia, that helped orphaned teens who were no longer eligible for government support to become established with land, housing, training, and livestock. In 2006, a $10,000 grant to Heifer helped develop a Rural Women's Union in Armenia, networking women heads of households engaged in subsistent farming. Currently the fund supports the PASS Program in Armenia through a partnership with the Foods Resource Bank.
Source: 8/27/2008 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. Nevin Dulabaum, Nancy Knepper, Jeri S. Kornegay, Barry LeNoir, LethaJoy Martin, Mary Kay Ogden, Janis Pyle, Howard Royer, Marcia Shetler, and 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. Nevin Dulabaum, Nancy Knepper, Jeri S. Kornegay, Barry LeNoir, LethaJoy Martin, Mary Kay Ogden, Janis Pyle, Howard Royer, Marcia Shetler, and John Wall contributed to this report.
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