Brethren bits: Personnel, N. Korea, Haiti, India violence, anniversaries, and more.

• J.E. McNeil has resigned as executive director of the Center on Conscience and War, following over a decade of service to the faith-based organization that advocates for the rights of conscience, opposes military conscription, and serves conscientious objectors. The center’s offices are located in Washington, D.C. Formerly the National Interreligious Service Board for Conscientious Objectors (NISBCO), it was formed in 1940 by an association of religious bodies including the Church of the Brethren. McNeil has served as executive director since Sept. 1999, and plans a departure date of no later than Aug. 31, 2011. The center’s board of directors, which is chaired by Church of the Brethren member Phil Jones, in a release stated that "J.E. has been the spirit, voice, and face of this important work for over a decade. Her leadership has shaped this organization into a nationally, and internationally known body, that supports men and women of conscience in their opposition to war and its violence." A search committee has been formed and applications to fill the position will be accepted beginning Oct. 1. The executive director position is full-time and salaried, with benefits including health insurance and a retirement plan. Candidates are encouraged to submit a cover letter, resume, writing exhibit (some form of writing/publication associated with previous work or vocation), three letters of reference (at least one being unrelated to professional work), salary expectations, and a one-page summary of why the candidate is attracted to this position. The full job description is available on request and at www.centeronconscience.org. The new director will be expected to begin no later than July 1, 2011.
  
  
• Prayer is requested for the people of North Korea and for Robert and Linda Shank, a Church of the Brethren couple preparing to teach at a university there. Global Mission Partnerships executive director Jay Wittmeyer is requesting prayer following news of a Sept. 28 convention of the Korea Workers’ Party to appoint a new leader for the country. According to CNN, it is the first gathering of party delegates in several decades and may be a crucial event for the people of North Korea. The Shanks have been teaching in China at a university close to the border with North Korea, preparing to be among the first group of teachers at the new Pyongyang University of Science and Technology. Robert Shank holds a doctorate in wheat breeding and has conducted rice research. Linda Shank holds a master’s in counseling and learning disabilities, and will be teaching English.
  
  
• The Church of the Brethren has signed on to two public letters on Haiti, through the General Secretary’s office and Witness and Advocacy staff. A letter to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, sponsored by the Center for Economic and Policy Research, recommends measures for the US government to help ensure that upcoming elections are "free, fair, and inclusive." Parliamentary and presidential elections are scheduled for Nov. 28. The letter expresses concern that more than a dozen political parties have been barred from presenting candidates in the elections without serious justification, and notes that "no serious measures appear to have been taken to guarantee that the over one million Haitians that have been displaced by the earthquake will be able to vote." The second letter went to members of Congress requesting support and co-sponsorship of the Haiti Empowerment, Assistance, and Rebuilding (HEAR) Act of 2010.
  
  
• Doris Abdullah, United Nations representative for the Church of the Brethren, attended the opening of the UN General Assembly’s 65th session in New York on Sept. 14. She also attended a panel discussion on "The Role of the Rule of Law in the Achievement of the Millennium Development Goals." This is the 10th year since the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) were adopted in 2000, and Abdullah noted that they still "represent a big challenge." The goals set a date of 2015 to eradicate extreme poverty and hunger, achieve universal primary education, promote gender equality and empower women, reduce child mortality, improve maternal health, combat HIV/AIDS and other diseases, ensure environmental stability, and develop a global partnership. The 2006 Church of the Brethren Annual Conference adopted a resolution in support of the goals, go to www.cobannualconference.org/ac_statements/2006GlobalPovertyHunger.pdf.
  
  
• The Conference Office has sent space requests to Brethren agencies and other groups for the 2011 Annual Conference in Grand Rapids, Mich. These include forms for Insight Sessions, catered meals, exhibit booths, and meeting space. All forms are due by Nov. 1. If you have not received these forms and need one, please contact the Conference Office at 800-323-8039.
  
  
• "Where the Designer and design artfully awakens..." is the theme for Bethany Theological Seminary’s Campus Visit Day on Nov. 5. "Perhaps you feel clearly called to set-apart ministry," said an invitation, "perhaps you are a lay leader thirsting for deeper study; perhaps you are uncertain about your vocation, but definitely seeking theological questions. If so, then come!" Participants will engage current students and faculty through theological discussion and worshipful work, tour the campus, share a meal, and learn more about the call to leadership and scholarship in the church and the world. Visit www.bethanyseminary.edu/campus-visit-day-November5 or contact Elizabeth Keller, director of Admissions, at kelleel@bethanyseminary.edu.
  
  
• The annual Global Mission Offering in support of Church of the Brethren mission efforts worldwide, as well as other ministries of the denomination, is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 10. This year’s theme is "Turn the World Upside Down" (Acts 17). For resources in English and Spanish go to www.brethren.org/site/PageServer?pagename=give_GlobalMissionOffering.
  
  
• IMA World Health welcomed Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD) and three members of his staff to its headquarters at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., on Sept. 8. IMA expressed its deep gratitude to Cardin, whose office made calls and joined the effort to locate three IMA staff members who were trapped in the rubble of the Hotel Montana after the January earthquake in Haiti. IMA president Rick Santos, one of the three survivors, presented the senator with a framed letter and plaque in appreciation. In other events during the day, Loretta Wolf, director of the Church of the Brethren’s Material Resources program, led a tour of the Distribution Center where a large shipment of medical supplies had been packed and sent to Haiti just a few days previously. A lunch reception was prepared by the New Windsor Conference Center.
  
  
• On Earth Peace has announced a Middle East Delegation co-sponsored with Christian Peacemaker Teams, scheduled for Jan. 4-17, 2011. "Join passionate, committed peacemakers on a journey to and through Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and Hebron," said an invitation. "This is a unique opportunity to meet with Israeli and Palestinian peace and human rights workers; additionally, delegates will visit Palestinian familes whose homes and livelihoods are threatened by expanding Israeli settlements." Contact Rick Polhamus, delegation leader, at 937-313-4458 or jrp@goinx.com.
  
  
• McPherson (Kan.) Church of the Brethren is marking its 125th anniversary with a series of events starting with an anniversary worship service Sept. 26 led by Ruthann Knechel Johansen, president of Bethany Theological Seminary, and the McPherson College Concert Choir.
  
  
• Newton (Kan.) Church of the Brethren is hosting a presentation by Dr. Paul Ullom-Minnich, who will speak on Sept. 26 about his experiences with a Church of the Brethren medical mission to earthquake-stricken Haiti. In March the medical team held clinics in five different locations in five days, and saw close to 1,300 patients. The event begins at 6 p.m. with an ice cream social, followed by Ullom-Minnich’s presentation at 7 p.m.
  
  
• East Chippewa Church of the Brethren in Orrville, Ohio, honored Beulah Maurer on her 90th birthday, along with other members of a "90-plus club": Florence Martin, 91; Norman Hostetler, 91; Elizabeth Leatherman, 90; and Carl Hochstetler, 91.
  
  
• The nursery school at Manchester Church of the Brethren in North Manchester, Ind., is celebrating its 50th anniversary on Oct. 3.
  
  
• A workshop on the changing landscape of the church, "Job’s Lament, Job’s Friends, and Us: Re-Imagining the Kingdom of God," on Sept. 25 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., is hosted by First Central Church of the Brethren in Kansas City, Kan. Led by Bethany Seminary president Ruthann Knechel Johansen, the workshop and lunch is provided at no cost to participants. For pastors, 0.5 continuing education credit is available for a $10 fee. Contact florylo@bethanyseminary.edu.
  
  
• A benefit concert by Mutual Kumquat at Bridgewater (Va.) Church of the Brethren netted $1,176.16 for the "Back to School: Burma" campaign of New Community Project. A generous matching fund grant was given by Rodney Smith of Midland (Va.) Church of the Brethren, who participated in a 2008 learning tour to Burma.
  
  
• The Brethren Disaster Relief Auction at Lebanon (Pa.) Valley Expo Center is this weekend, Sept. 24-25.
  
  
• The Indiana Camp Board has announced a decision to construct a new dining facility and welcome center at Camp Alexander Mack in Milford, Ind., following a fire that destroyed the camp's Becker Lodge. "It was decided to construct the Welcome Center (which will be the administrative offices) and the Dining Center/Kitchen as two buildings joined by a ‘Commons’ area or ‘Gathering Area,’" said a status report distributed by South Central Indiana District in early September. The "foot print" of the new building will be marked out at the Camp Mack Festival on Oct. 2. Planning for a retreat center to replace lost lodging facilities is still underway.
  
  
• Bridgewater (Va.) College will inaugurate George E. Cornelius as its eighth president on Oct. 7 with a ceremony at 10:30 a.m. (eastern) on the campus mall. Cornelius, who took office July 1, selected the inaugural theme, "Making a Difference," to affirm Bridgewater's commitment to honoring the past, living the present, and shaping the future. A week of activities complement the ceremony, which itself kicks off Homecoming. On Oct. 3, students can participate in a 15- to 20-mile bicycle ride with Cornelius, who is an avid bicyclist. On Oct. 4-8 the college will hold a food drive for the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank. On Oct. 4, Cornelius will participate in dorm receptions. On the day of inauguration, the college hosts a reception, an inaugural festival for students, and a concert by the Symphonic Band. On Oct. 8, there will be an inaugural seminar. Activities conclude Oct. 9 with a joint worship service with Bridgewater Church of the Brethren.
  
  
• Enrollment at the University of La Verne (Calif.), a Church of the Brethren-related school, has set records this fall, according to a release. "Coming into this, its 119th academic year, La Verne’s enrollment had never exceeded 1,700 traditional undergraduate students," the release said. "Although final figures will not be available for several weeks, university officials have determined this year’s enrollment has surpassed 1,875 students." The figure represents a 23 percent increase from last year. In addition, the initial count for this year’s entering class shows more than 770 new undergraduate freshmen, transfer, and international students present during the first week of classes, "a 70 percent increase from the 453 of a year ago."
  
  
• McPherson (Kan.) College is celebrating a new Motorcycle Major with a "Bikes on the Lawn" motorcycle rally on Sept. 25, said a release that named McPherson as "the nation’s premier automotive restoration college." A complimentary barbecue lunch will be served. At 12:45 p.m., Automotive Restoration students are scheduled to turn a pile of parts into a fully assembled and running Ford Model T in less than 20 minutes.
  
  
• "Seeking God’s Grace for the Gulf" has been announced by the National Council of Churches as a day of worship, reflection, and healing for the destruction caused by the oil spill. On Sunday, Oct. 3, congregations across the country are invited to use the worship resources offered at www.nccecojustice.org/oilspill/seekinggodsgrace.php.
  
  
• The Church of North India (CNI) has called on the Indian government to protect Christians after schools and churches were attacked in "Quran anger violence," according to an Anglican news report. A mob burned down the Tungmarg Tyndale Biscoe branch school after hearing reports of a man desecrating the Quran in America. The school provided education to 550 children from 150 villages. The release noted that when the school library was burned, among other books copies of the Quran were destroyed. None of the staff were injured and all managed to escape. Other Christian institutions that came under attack included the Roman Catholic Good Shepherd High School at Pulwama, the CNI hospital at Anantnag, a CNI church in Malerkotla, Chandigarh Diocese, and a Roman Catholic Church in Poonch, Jammu. "It is a time to pray and act together," said a report in the CNI newsletter. CNI leaders had condemned the plans by a Florida pastor to burn a Quran, the report said, and are now urging the Christian community to stay calm and maintain peace.

Source: 9/23/2010 Newsline

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. Charles Bentley, Kathleen Campanella, Charles Culbertson, Chris Douglas, Emily Esworthy, Phil Jones, Adam Pracht, Marcia Shetler, Brian Solem, Christopher W. Zepp contributed to this report.

NEWS

• Annual Conference theme and speakers are announced for 2011.
  
• Committee on Interchurch Relations to reconsider its mission.
  
• New BVS volunteers complete summer orientation.
  
• Haitian Brethren hold gathering for theological training, love feast.
  
• Global Women's Project steering committee holds summer meeting.

UPCOMING EVENTS

• Children's Sabbath is an opportunity to support well-being of children.
  
• Workshops offer training for deacons, stewardship, intercultural ministry, Children's Disaster Services, youth ministry.

REMEMBRANCES

• Charles (Chuck) Boyer, Mary Eikenberry, Esther Mohler Ho, Susanne Windisch.

BRETHREN BITS

• Personnel, Hurricane Earl, BVS, International Day of Prayer for Peace, more.

NEWSLINE SPECIAL

• Church leaders call for civility in Christian-Muslim relations.
  
• Brethren worship resources for the anniversary of Sept. 11.

Annual Conference theme and speakers are announced for 2011.

The theme and main speakers have been announced for the Church of the Brethren's Annual Conference next year, July 2-6, 2011, in Grand Rapids, Mich. Moderator Robert E. Alley announced the theme "Gifted with Promise: Extending Jesus' Table," based on the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000.

"This story is one of few to appear in all four Gospels (Matthew 14:13-21; Mark 6:30-44; Luke 9:10-17; and John 6:1-14)," Alley noted in his announcement. "In every age including our own, Jesus continues to challenge disciples to respond to people with the sustaining benefit of the Gospel whether in compassionate service, forgiving grace, or abiding hope.

"In 'Gifted with Promise: Extending Jesus' Table,' Brethren encounter a challenging assignment: (1) to discover afresh their giftedness with Gospel and (2) to envision their role in loving the world enough to share the physical and spiritual benefit of the Gospel," the moderator's statement continued. "This theme connects our common interests in spirituality and service, practice and prayer. We extend the table with promised resources of grace and love. The theme calls us to mission and evangelism where we not only share and invite but we cultivate discipleship as we offer tangible resources of food, clothing, medical care, and more. At the table, we share, we receive, and we learn."

Alley also announced a theme song, "Praise, I Will Praise You Lord," and the preachers and worship leaders for the daily worship services:

Saturday evening, July 2: Moderator Robert Alley will preach for the opening worship service, on the scripture Mark 6:30-44, with moderator-elect Tim Harvey as worship leader.

Sunday morning, July 3: Craig H. Smith, executive minister for Atlantic Northeast District, will preach, with worship leaders Joel and Linetta Ballew of Lebanon Church of the Brethren in Mount Sidney, Va. The daily focus will be "Jesus extends the table in the midst of domestic life," based on the day's scriptures of John 2:1-12 and Matthew 14:13-21.

Monday evening, July 4: Preacher Samuel Sarpiya, pastor of Rockford (Ill.) Community Church, a new church plant, will be assisted by worship leader Nathan D. Polzin, executive minister for Michigan District and pastor of the Church in Drive in Saginaw, Mich. The daily focus will be "Jesus extends the table by accepting the hospitality of others" with the day's scriptures taken from Luke 7:36-8:3 and Mark 8:1-10.

Tuesday evening, July 5: The message will be brought by preacher Dava C. Hensley, pastor of First Church of the Brethren in Roanoke, Va., with worship leader Peter J. Kontra, pastor of Oakland Church of the Brethren in Bradford, Ohio. The daily focus will be "Jesus extends the table beyond our own kind and our own community," with daily scriptures Luke 14:12-14 and Luke 9:10-17.

Wednesday morning, July 6: The closing service will hear from the Church of the Brethren's general secretary Stan Noffsinger, with worship leader Rhonda Pittman Gingrich, an ordained minister from Minneapolis, Minn. The daily focus will be "Jesus extends the table to us." The day's scripture focuses will be John 21:9-14 and John 6:1-14.

Additional leadership at the 2011 Conference will be provided by music coordinator Bev Anspaugh of Rocky Mount, Va.; Conference Choir director Alan Gumm of Mount Pleasant, Mich.; organist Josh Tindall of Elizabethtown, Pa.; pianist Jenny Williams of Richmond, Ind.; and Children's Choir director Rachel Bucher Swank.

The full text of the moderator's theme statement for 2011 will be available soon at www.brethren.org/ac.

In related news, the Conference Office has announced a deadline for submitting nominations for church leadership positions to be filled through elections at the 2011 Conference. The deadline to submit nominations is Dec. 1. A packet of election information has been mailed to each Church of the Brethren congregation, listing the leadership positions that are open. That information and nomination forms also are available at www.brethren.org/ac. (In a correction to the Annual Conference election mailing, on the grid of the last page of the Call to Accountability document the columns of numbers marked "Men/Women" should be reversed to read "Women/Men.")

Source: 9/9/2010 Newsline

Committee on Interchurch Relations to reconsider its mission.

The Committee on Interchurch Relations (CIR) met at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., on Aug. 26-28. The three-day Fall Meeting is the annual launch to the CIR's realm of responsibilities. The CIR also participates in three telephone conferences throughout the year, and has responsibilities at Annual Conference including written and oral presentations to the delegate body.

New CIR member Christina Singh was welcomed to the committee. Paul Roth was appointed chair.

In light of economic challenges and of the changing face of ecumenism, the group reviewed the continuing viability and purpose of CIR by looking at its history and recent endeavors. The committee celebrated many accomplishments of the past few decades, but felt it is time to recast the vision for ecumenical life in the Church of the Brethren. A request will be sent to the Standing Committee of district representatives and to the Church of the Brethren's Mission and Ministry Board to review CIR's mission for the 21st century.

The group received positive reviews of CIR's activities at the 2010 Annual Conference, where many noted Archbishop Vicken Aykazian's luncheon presentation and address to the delegate body as highlights. Plans for the 2011 Annual Conference include hosting Richard Hamm, executive director of Christian Churches Together USA (CCT), as speaker for the Ecumenical Luncheon and the insight session sponsored by CIR. General Secretary Stan Noffsinger also reported on his ecumenical work during the past year.

Members of CIR are Melissa Bennett of Northern Indiana District, Christina Singh of Northern Plains District, Jim Hardenbrook of Shenandoah District, Steve Reid of Southern Plains District, Paul Roth of Shenandoah District, and Melissa Troyer of Northern Indiana District. Noffsinger serves as an ex-officio member.

-- Melissa Troyer is a member of the Committee on Interchurch Relations.

Source: 9/9/2010 Newsline

New BVS volunteers complete summer orientation.

The summer orientation training unit for Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) was held in Harrisonburg, Va., from July 18-Aug. 6. Following are the new volunteers, their hometowns or congregations, and their project placements:

Simon Brendel of Berlin, Germany, to Project PLASE in Baltimore, Md.; Leon Buschina of Vaihingen, Germany, also going to Project PLASE; John Clucas of Glen Ellyn, Ill., to Abode in Fremont, Calif.; Jill and Randy Emmelhainz, and their children Jacob and Anna, of Ostrander, Ohio, to Lybrook (N.M.) Community Ministries; Daniel Hoellinger of Waldkraiburg, Germany, to Abode in Fremont, Calif.; Martin Kutter of St. Katharinen, Germany, to Innisfree Village in Crozet, Va.; Rebecca Marek of Crestline, Ohio, to Holywell Consultancy and the Junction in Derry, Northern Ireland; Cori Miner and Adam Stokes of North Manchester, Ind., to Su Casa Catholic Worker House in Chicago, Ill., and Greenhill YMCA in Newcastle, Northern Ireland; Katherine Philipson of Portland, Ore., to Jubilee USA Network in Washington, D.C.; Rachel Reeder of Arlington, Va., to Emmaus Community in Rouen, France; Susan and Patrick Starkey of Ninth St. Church of the Brethren in Roanoke, Va., to Casa de Esperanza de los Niños in Houston, Texas; Ellen Zemlin of Carmel, Ind., to EIRENE in Neuwied, Germany.

Source: 9/9/2010 Newsline

Haitian Brethren hold gathering for theological training, love feast.

An annual gathering of L'Eglise des Freres Haitiens (the Church of the Brethren in Haiti) was held in mid-August in the town of Cap-Haitien in the north of the Caribbean island. Some 92 members of the Haitian church and leadership from the US church took part in the event, which included sessions for theological training, a Love Feast service, and baptisms. The theme for the week was "Unity."

Attending from the US Church of the Brethren were Ludovic St. Fleur, coordinator of the Haiti mission and pastor of Eglise des Freres Haitiens in Miami, Fla.; his daughter Roselanne Cadet, who provided translation services; Marie Ridore, also of Eglise des Freres Haitiens in Miami; Ilexene Alphonse of Miami First Church of the Brethren; Thomas Dowdy Jr., pastor of Imperial Heights Church of the Brethren in Los Angeles, Calif.; Verel Montauban, pastor of Haitian First Church of the Brethren of New York; and James Myer, an ordained minister from Lititz, Pa., and a leader in the Brethren Revival Fellowship.

The Brethren in the Dominican Republic sent Leton Fleury as a representative to the meeting, attending from the Boca Chica congregation near Santo Domingo.

The Love Feast included footwashing, a fellowship meal, and communion, and was attended by more than 90 people. For communion, a batch of bread was served made from a recipe that Myer had brought with him.

At the close of the gathering, seven people received believer's baptism by trine immersion in a Brethren style that proved to be new for many Haitians who were present, according to reports from the event. On the weekend after the gathering, 12 more people planned to be baptized in their home congregations.

Source: 9/9/2010 Newsline

Global Women's Project steering committee holds summer meeting.

The Global Women's Project steering committee met in Minneapolis, Minn., from Aug. 26-29. Members are Judi Brown of N. Manchester, Ind.; Carrie Eikler of Morgantown, W.Va.; Nan Erbaugh of W. Alexandria, Ohio; Anna Lisa Gross of Richmond, Ind.; and Kim Hill Smith of Minneapolis.

The Global Women's Project is a Church of the Brethren-related organization partnering with women around the world, striving to educate about wealth and privilege, and encouraging those with extra to share with those who do not have enough.

The steering committee was able to worship with both the Common Spirit Church of the Brethren and the Open Circle Church of the Brethren in the Minneapolis area. The project is in partnership with six projects around the world which are led by women and benefit women and their communities: an agricultural project in Rwanda, a program for women coming out of jail in Wabash, Ind.; a sewing cooperative in Narus, southern Sudan; a girls' education program in Uganda; a job skills cooperative in Nepal; and a women's radio show in Bethlehem, Palestine.

The volunteer steering committee members gather two times a year. In March 2011, they will meet in Richmond, Ind., worshiping and sharing with Bethany Theological Seminary and Earlham School of Religion. Those who are in the area are invited to join the steering committee at Bethany's Peace Forum on March 3 from 12-1 p.m. As always, a free lunch is open to all who come to the Peace Forum, and Global Women's Project will share about its work.

Supporters are invited to join the movement by using the Global Women's Project Lenten devotional calendar and participating in a Mother's Day Project. Learn more at www.globalwomensproject.org.

--Anna Lisa Gross is a member of the Global Women's Project steering committee.

Source: 9/9/2010 Newsline

Children's Sabbath is an opportunity to support well-being of children.

"Blessed to Be a Blessing: Lifting Up the Next Generation" is the theme for the Children's Defense Fund's 2010 Children's Sabbaths weekend on Oct. 15-17. The observance aims to unite religious congregations of all faiths across the nation in shared concern for children and common commitment to improving their lives.

Kim Ebersole, director of the Church of the Brethren's Family Life Ministry, encourages congregations to observe Children's Sabbaths weekend through worship, prayer, and education programs for all ages.

"The Church of the Brethren has long been concerned with the well-being of children," she said. "This special observance is an opportunity to reflect on the teachings of our faith, learn more about the needs of children, and explore ways to make our communities better places for kids and families." Go to www.brethren.org/FLM for a link to download the Children's Sabbaths resource manual.

Source: 9/9/2010 Newsline

Training opportunities for deacons, stewardship, intercultural ministry, Children's Disaster Services, youth ministry.

A number of upcoming workshops and training events are offered by or recommended by Church of the Brethren staff in the areas of deacon ministry, stewardship, intercultural ministry, serving children following disasters, and youth ministry:

Three training sessions for deacons will be hosted by Pacific Southwest District this fall. The first will be at Tucson (Ariz.) Church of the Brethren on Sept. 25, followed by identical sessions at the Empire and Glendora Churches in California on Oct. 2 and 9, respectively. Each session will include opening and closing worship, the workshops "What Are Deacons Supposed to Do, Anyway?" and "The Art of Listening," as well as a light lunch. To register, complete the form found at www.brethren.org/deacontraining or contact the district office at 909-392-4054 or secretary@pswdcob.org. For information about other fall training sessions for deacons visit www.brethren.org/deacontraining or contact Donna Kline, director of the Church of the Brethren's Deacon Ministry, at 800-323-8039 or dkline@brethren.org.

"Intercultural Competency/Competencia Intercultural: Being an Effective Leader in a Diverse Changing World" is the theme for a workshop on Nov. 11, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., at First Church of the Brethren in Harrisburg, Pa., led by Eric H.F. Law. The event is offered in both English and Spanish, jointly sponsored by the Church of the Brethren's Intercultural Ministry, On Earth Peace, and Mennonite Central Committee. It is designed for pastors, church members, and district leaders. Law is adjunct faculty for the Doctor of Ministry program at McCormick Theological Seminary, ACTS Doctor of Ministry program in Preaching, and the Mexican American Cultural Center in San Antonio, Texas. He will speak on viewing intercultural communities of faith through the lens of theology and explore the questions: What is culture? Why are there intercultural conflicts? How do racism, power, and privilege affect the way we can be effective leaders in a diverse community? The $25 registration fee includes lunch with a vegetarian option. A continuing education credit of 0.5 is available for $10. Online registration is at www.brethren.org/site/PageServer?pagename=grow_intercultural_EricLaw2010.

Children's Disaster Services (CDS) is offering a volunteer workshop Nov. 12-13 at Salem Church of the Brethren in Englewood, Ohio. CDS volunteers provide a calm, safe, and reassuring presence following disasters by setting up and operating special child care centers in disaster locations. Parents are then able to apply for assistance and begin to put their lives back together, knowing their children are safe. The information learned at this workshop can be beneficial to anyone working with children. Cost is $45 for early registration, $55 after Oct. 22. The local contact is Carrie Smith at 937-836-6145, or contact the CDS office at 800-451-4407 ext. 5 or cds@brethren.org.

"Teaching and Preaching Christian Stewardship," the 2010 Leadership Seminar offered by the Ecumenical Stewardship Center, will take place on Nov. 29-Dec. 2 at the Sirata Beach Resort in St. Pete's Beach, Fla. Denominational leaders from across North America will share their insights, research, and inspiration in teaching and preaching stewardship in an event that blends workshop sessions, worship, and fellowship for pastors and stewardship leaders. To learn more about content and leadership, visit www.escleadershipseminar.com. To receive an early bird registration discount and a Church of the Brethren scholarship ($100 for the first five registrants; $50 for the second five), contact Carol Bowman, stewardship development coordinator, at 509-663-2833 (Pacific time) or cbowman@brethren.org before Oct. 18.

The Youth Worker Summit, a once-every-four-years ecumenical youth ministry training event, takes place Dec. 1-4 in Orlando, Fla. The summit is a chance for youth pastors and youth workers to strengthen ministry skills, network, and re-energize. Rodger Nishioka is this year's keynote speaker, Phyllis Tickle will speak at the opening worship service, and Celia Whitler will lead the music. The schedule includes worship, workshops, plenary sessions, and time to spend with youth ministry colleagues. Visit www.youthworkersummit.org for details. "Because this event includes high quality leadership, it is an expensive conference," said an invitation from Becky Ullom, the Church of the Brethren's director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry. "In order to make it more affordable for you to attend, I have set aside some budget money for scholarships." The Youth and Young Adult Ministry office will be able to pay the entire registration fee ($275) for the first 20 Church of the Brethren youth pastors who indicate they would like a scholarship. Individuals or churches will pay for lodging and travel to the Orlando area, although some money for travel may be available. As soon as possible (or by Oct. 8), e-mail bullom@brethren.org if you plan to participate.

Source: 9/9/2010 Newsline

Remembrances: Charles (Chuck) Boyer, Mary Eikenberry, Esther Mohler Ho, Susanne Windisch.

Charles (Chuck) Boyer, 73, a past moderator of the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference and a former director of Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) and peace consultant for the denomination, passed away Sept. 2 in La Verne, Calif. He was an ordained minister and a strong peace and justice activist and advocate. He served as BVS director from 1969-76 and as peace consultant from 1976-88. During his own term as a BVS volunteer in 1959-61, he worked in a refugee camp in Berlin, Germany, and planned workcamps and peace seminars for the Brethren Service Commission. As peace consultant he helped develop the People of the Covenant program, and from 1980-85 chaired the National Interreligious Service Board for Conscientious Objectors during a time when compulsory draft registration was reinstated. In 1986 and 1988 he testified before House and Appropriations Subcommittees for fair treatment of conscientious objectors. He was arrested several times in actions for peace, once after helping lead a Brethren footwashing service in the Capitol rotunda as part of a Lenten witness against the Contra War and US policies in Central America. Then, from 1988 until his retirement in 2002 he served La Verne Church of the Brethren as senior pastor. In 1993 he was moderator of Annual Conference--the first from the West Coast in 30 years, noted a "Messenger" magazine interview published in February that year. Interviewer George Keeler reported Boyer's "tough convictions" on a number of issues including his inclusive stance on sexuality. The interview raised a "furor" in the denomination, as Boyer describes in his most recent contribution to "Messenger"--an essay that appears posthumously this month titled "What's Ahead for the Church of the Brethren?" Reflecting on the denomination's current Special Response process, Boyer writes about the furor over his stance on sexual inclusivity in 1993, the calls for his resignation as moderator, and the hate mail he received at the time. Boyer was born July 20, 1937, in Wabash, Ind., the only child of Ralph and Edith (Frantz) Boyer. In 1962 he married Shirley Campbell, who survives him. He held degrees from Manchester College and Bethany Theological Seminary. At Purdue University he served as campus pastor in the Ecumenical Ministry to International Students from 1964-69. He was an accomplished pianist and loved sports, volunteering as a baseball umpire and officiating at basketball games at different times in his life. Honors and recognitions early in his career included listings in Who's Who in American Colleges and Universities and Outstanding Young Men of America, and more recently the 2008 Friend of Caucus Award given by Womaen's Caucus. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Shirley, son David (Gwen) Boyer, daughter Valerie (Jaime) Beltran, son Mark, and seven grandchildren. Memorial donations are received to La Verne Church of the Brethren and Manchester College. The memorial service will be held at La Verne Church of the Brethren on Sept. 16, at 10:00 a.m.

Mary Elizabeth (Flora) Eikenberry, 95, a former mission worker in Nigeria, died Sept. 1 at Timbercrest Senior Living Community in N. Manchester, Ind. With her husband, the late Ivan Eikenberry, she lived and worked in Nigeria for 35 years. Beginning in 1945 she taught elementary school at Garkida Mission School and at Waka Teachers Training College; from 1959-77 was administrative assistant for the Northern Education Advisory Council in Kaduna, where she also hosted international mission visitors, served as chair of the service committee, and as president of the International Women's Club; and from 1979 until retirement in 1981 taught at Kulp Bible School near Mubi. At a "send off" in honor of the Eikenberrys retirement given by the Waka Old Students Association, Rev. Nvwa Balami commented, "Your contribution in education has changed the history and destiny of ethnic groups in this country within a period of one generation...." After retirement the couple moved to Trotwood, Ohio, and participated in mission interpretation and the "Micah Mission" from 1981-86, in the summer of 1983 accompanying a tour of the women's choir of Ekklesiyar Yan'uwa a Nigeria (EYN--the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria). Other volunteer service for the church included terms on the Southern Ohio District Board and as district moderator. In 1993 her husband, Ivan, died, and in 2006 she moved to Timbercrest Senior Living Community. She was born June 13, 1915, in New Windsor, Md., to Joel Cephas and Elizabeth (Garver) Flora. She earned a degree from Manchester College, was active in church youth camps, and served on the youth cabinet in Southern Ohio District. From 1936-39 she taught junior high and high school in Ohio. In 1939 she married Ivan Eikenberry. She was preceded in death by her husband and sons Brian and Terril. She is survived by three remaining children and their spouses: Melody and Lawrence Rupley, Joel and Beverly (Sayers) Eikenberry, and Lynn and Beth (Johnson) Eikenberry; nine grandchildren; and seven great grandchildren. A celebration of her life was held Sept. 4 at Trotwood Church of the Brethren. Memorial donations are received to the Ivan Eikenberry Family Scholarship Fund at Manchester College, Trotwood Church of the Brethren, and Timbercrest Charitable Assistance Endowment Fund.

Esther Mohler Ho, 79, former staff in the denomination's peace office, died on Aug. 20 in Hayward, Calif. From 1957-61 she worked with the director of Peace Education and Action for the Church of the Brethren. Previously she served in Brethren Volunteer Service in Kassel, Germany, as a representative for International Christian Youth Exchange. She continued her work for peace in later years by joining the Hayward Peace and Justice Fellowship, the Ecumenical Peace Institute of the Bay Area in Berkeley, Interfaith Witness for Peace in the Middle East, and the American Muslim Voice Foundation. With Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT) she worked in the West Bank city of Hebron and in Chiapas, Mexico. A brief memoir of her life appears in "Love, Grandma," published by Grandmothers Against the War. She was born July 2, 1931, the daughter of John and Lota Mohler. She held degrees from McPherson (Kan.) College and Northwestern University in Illinois, and worked as a speech and language specialist. She was a member of Modesto (Calif.) Church of the Brethren and Fremont (Calif.) Congregational Church. According to an obituary in the "Morning Sun" newspaper, she was recognized earlier this year by the Alameda County (Calif.) Board of Supervisors for her many decades of public service and faith-based activism in support of peace and social justice, and by the American Muslim Voice Foundation as a "Hero of Peace, Love, and Friendship." Her husband of 49 years, Winston C. Ho, a native of Shanghai, China, survives along with daughters Cheri and Lisa Ho, and grandchildren. A memorial service was held at Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley on Sept. 5. Memorial donations are received to Christian Peacemaker Teams, On Earth Peace, and Heifer International.

Susanne Windisch, 93, who worked in Kassel, Germany, with Brethren Service following World War II, died on Aug. 30. She was a secretary, administrative assistant, translator, interpreter, and a "guide and diplomat" for the Brethren Service program, and a personal friend to many Brethren volunteers who served in or traveled through Kassel. A remembrance by Wilbur Mullen, who directed the Brethren work in Germany beginning in 1954, describes her as "one of the great and devoted friends of the Church of the Brethren. She became a helping friend to the many seagoing cowboys, those who brought the gifts of livestock to Europe. Brethren Service and Brethren Volunteer Service quickly became the family she never had. She is one who lived through World War II, before, during, and after the heavy bombing of Kassel when it was 85 percent destroyed. After the death of her parents she lived a frugal life. She spoke about walking to and from work, an hour daily each way, to save the 15 or 20 cents for food.... Susanne came to love the Church of the Brethren and the many members she met. Years later in one of her letters she wrote, 'Now I begin to understand how Christ is central, a part of all the Brethren do.'"

Source: 9/9/2010 Newsline

Brethren bits: Personnel, Hurricane Earl, BVS, International Day of Prayer for Peace, more.

• The New Windsor (Md.) Conference Center is thanking Dave Holl for his work as a first-time volunteer host in Zigler Hall in July and August. The conference center also welcomes volunteer hosts Roy and Verda Martin of Waynesboro, Pa., who have spent the past three years in Brethren Volunteer Service, working as houseparents at a project in Lewiston, Maine.
  
  
• Children's Disaster Services prepared to respond to Hurricane Earl last week, as the storm moved toward the east coast of the United States. The program had 70 volunteers on call, reported CDS associate director Judy Bezon, but the storm weakened and a response by CDS was not needed. The work done to line up such a large group of volunteers is not lost, however, Bezon said. "We have information about the availability of volunteers through mid October--for other hurricanes that may develop."
  
  
• Officers of the Church of the Brethren Ministers' Association met Aug. 18-19 for their annual face-to-face planning meeting. In addition to administrative matters, the officers reviewed evaluations from the 2010 Pre-Conference Continuing Education Event and worked on plans for the upcoming event to precede the 2011 Annual Conference in Grand Rapids, Mich., on July 1-2. The theme will be "Breaking Down Walls: Pursuing the Vision of Becoming Multi-Cultural Congregations" and will feature the leadership of Darla Kay Deardorff and Bob Hunter. "Be watching for more details and registration information in the coming months," said a notice from vice chair Chris Zepp of Bridgewater, Va. The 2010-11 association officers also include chair Sue Richard of Lima, Ohio; second vice chair Dave Kerkove of Adel, Iowa; secretary Joel Kline of Elgin, Ill.; and treasurer Rebecca House of Union Bridge, Md.
  
  
• A prayer circle on Sept. 3 at the church's General Offices offered a blessing for the 15 Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) workers attending a retreat, and for Robert and Linda Shank (shown at left above), church staff preparing to travel to North Korea to teach in a new university there. Global Mission Partnerships executive director Jay Wittmeyer led the time of prayer.
  
  
• The BVS Europe retreat took place Aug. 8-14 in Berlin, Germany. BVS volunteers who are working in projects across Europe took part. Kristin Flory is coordinator for Brethren Service Europe.
  
  
• BVS holds its fall orientation on Sept. 26-Oct. 15 in Oregon at Camp Myrtlewood in Myrtle Point and in Portland. This will be the 291st BVS unit and will consist of 33 volunteers. The last time BVS trained such a large orientation group was in the fall of 2007. The unit will spend three weeks exploring project possibilities and topics of community building, peace and social justice, faith sharing, diversity training, and more. They will have the opportunity for several work days, in both rural and urban communities. Friends, BVS alumni, and supporters are welcomed to a potluck with the unit at 6 p.m. on Oct. 11 at Portland Peace Church of the Brethren. For more information contact the BVS office at 800-323-8039.
  
  
• On Earth Peace is offering a new resource for the International Day of Prayer for Peace. The family liturgy titled "Passing of the Pieces" is written by Chris Riley, a fifth-grade teacher from Luray (Va.) Church of the Brethren. For a copy contact Michael Colvin, coordinator of the International Day of Prayer for Peace Campaign, at mcolvin@onearthpeace.org or 626-802-5900.
  
  
• A Ministry of Reconciliation Matthew 18 Workshop is hosted by Prince of Peace Church of the Brethren in Littleton, Colo., on Sept 17-18. Registration is $25 for individuals or $100 for groups of five or more from the same congregation. Lunch and childcare are included. Pre-register by Sept. 12 by calling 303-797-1536 or princeofpeacecob@gmail.com. Scholarships and housing are available.
  
  
• Buena Vista (Va.) Stone Church of the Brethren celebrates its "102nd Birthday" with a Revive Us Again Homecoming on Sept. 19.
  
  
• An open house for Homer Kerr's 100th birthday was planned for Sept. 5 at English River Church of the Brethren in South English, Iowa.
  
  
• First Church of the Brethren in Brooklyn, N.Y., hosted three workcamps this summer including one of the denomination's junior high workcamps. "So far 91 youth and their advisors have experienced the urban environment and being the hands and feet of Jesus Christ," reported pastor Jonathan Bream.
  
  
  
  
• The Handbell Choir and congregation at Montezuma Church of the Brethren in Dayton, Va., are hosting a third annual "Ring and Sing for Peace" on Sept. 19, at 6:30 p.m. The event brings together Brethren, Friends, and Mennonite congregations.
  
  
• Mutual Kumquat will give a benefit concert at Bridgewater (Va.) Church of the Brethren on Sept. 12 at 6:30 p.m. A free-will offering will be taken for the "Back to School--Burma" campaign of New Community Project..
  
  
• Upcoming district conferences: Southern Pennsylvania District meets on Sept. 17-18 at Black Rock Church of the Brethren in Glenville, Pa., on the theme, "The Command... Love God, Love Others, Love Well!" (1 John 4:7-8 and Mark 12:29-31); Eli Mast serves as moderator. Oregon and Washington District Conference is Sept. 17-19 at Camp Myrtlewood in Oregon, on the theme "Sacred Space," with David Radcliff as guest speaker. The Northern Indiana District Conference is Sept. 17-18 at Camp Alexander Mark in Milford, Ind.
  
  
• Virlina District's Peace Affairs Committee is sponsoring an International Day of Prayer for Peace Service on Sept. 19 at 3 p.m. at Roanoke (Va.) Oak Grove Church of the Brethren. Walter F. Sullivan, Bishop Emeritus of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond, will be the guest speaker.
  
  
• A picnic and fundraiser will be held at the John Kline Homestead in Broadway, Va., on Sept. 12, beginning at 4 p.m. The event is part of an effort to preserve the historic home of Elder John Kline, a leader of the Brethren during the Civil War. Interpretive tours will be offered, along with music by the Bridgewater Round Hill Recorders and a hymn sing. Bring your own lawn chair or blanket. There is a minimum donation of $10 for adults and $5 for children 10 and under. Reservations are requested, contact Linville Creek Church of the Brethren at 540-896-5001. An e-mail from pastor Paul Roth reports that, "As of yesterday's accounting, we have raised over $358,500 toward our goal of $425,000 to purchase the John Kline Homestead. This means we need less than $66,500 to go!"
  
  
• Bridgewater (Va.) College is experiencing record enrollment, according to a release from the school. "This year 552 new students enrolled at Bridgewater, making it the largest incoming freshman class in the college's 130-year history. Total enrollment now stands at 1,690 students, up 6 percent from 2009," the release said. To accommodate the growth, two new village-style residences were added to housing. Stone Village, an environmentally friendly concept constructed as a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver project, houses 32 students. The college plans to add up to three more residences in Stone Village by next year.
  
  
• Plans for the 2010 "Powerhouse" regional youth conference at Manchester College in N. Manchester, Ind., are in high gear. The conference on Nov. 13-14 will have the theme "Hidden Treasure" (Prov. 2:1-5). Keynote leaders are Angie Lahman Yoder and Dave Sollenberger, with a concert by Mutual Kumquat. Cost for the weekend, including three meals, is just $40. Details and downloadable registration forms can be found at www.manchester.edu/powerhouse. Print copies were sent to district offices and youth leaders in early September.
  
  
• Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa., is holding a Brethren Senior Overnight and Open House on Oct. 10-11. Activities will include meeting current Brethren students, a campus tour, a session with faculty, and information about admissions and Brethren life on campus. Register at www.juniata.edu/visit or call 814-641-3422 or 814-641-3361.
  
  
• The University of La Verne's Abraham Campus Center is the first building in the city of La Verne, Calif., to earn LEED Certification from the US Green Building Council at the silver level.
  
  
• A film version of "Amish Grace"--based on the book "Amish Grace: How Forgiveness Transcended Tragedy" by Church of the Brethren author Donald B. Kraybill along with Steven M. Nolt, and David L. Weaver-Zercher--will be available on DVD on Sept. 14, from 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment. The highest rated movie ever to premiere on Lifetime, according to a release, it chronicles the community of Nickel Mines, Pa., where a gunman senselessly took the lives of five girls in a schoolhouse shooting before taking his own life in Oct. 2006. The movie is directed by Gregg Champion.
  
  
• The Heeding God's Call movement against gun violence is to receive a human rights award from the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations, the city agency that enforces civil rights laws and deals with inter-group conflict and neighborhood disputes. The award will be presented Sept. 16. Heeding God's Call movement began in early 2009 at a Historic Peace Churches conference held in Philadelphia.

Source: 9/9/2010 Newsline

Church leaders call for civility in Christian-Muslim relations.

As the ninth anniversary of the attacks of Sept. 11 approaches, Church of the Brethren staff have expressed concern for interfaith relationships and have called for Brethren to reach out as peacemakers.

"The Church of the Brethren call is for all followers of Jesus to be peacemakers as we approach the anniversary of the Sept. 11 events, and the rising rhetoric and threat of violence against people of differing belief," said general secretary Stan Noffsinger.

Noffsinger joined his voice with that of other Christian leaders around the world, responding to a worldwide controversy that was unleashed by the plans of one small church in Florida--the Dove World Outreach Center in Gainesville--to burn copies of the Quran on 9/11. Also, plans to build a Muslim community center near Ground Zero in Manhattan has increased tensions. Statements in response came from a wide range of Christian organizations and ecumenical groups including the World Council of Churches, National Council of Churches, Mennonite Central Committee, Church World Service, and many others (see statements below).

Today the Florida pastor announced to news organizations that he has given up his plan to burn a Quran. There also are unconfirmed reports that the developer of the Muslim center near Ground Zero may be talking about moving the site.

Global Mission Partnerships executive director Jay Wittmeyer had written a letter to the Dove Center at the request of the youth chairman of Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN--the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria). The youth leader attends an EYN church in Maiduguri that was destroyed by bombing during religious violence a year ago. The letter expressed concern from Nigeria about suffering retaliatory violence if a Quran was burned by Christians in the US.

"What we say and do on the anniversary of Sept. 11 matters," said Josh Brockway, the Church of the Brethren’s director of Spiritual Life and Discipleship. "It gets to the heart of Christian discipleship. Scripture, from cover to cover, is clear that welcome of the stranger, love for our neighbor, and prayers for our enemies are central practices of the Christian way of life. Followers of the Prince of Peace cannot raise one hand in lament and hold a match in another."

Noffsinger said he supports public comments by NCC general secretary Michael Kinnamon at an interfaith press conference held Sept. 7 at the National Press Club. Kinnamon and other religious leaders addressed what they called an atmosphere of fear and intolerance toward Muslims and condemned the plans to burn the Quran.

"The Church of the Brethren agreement on civility extends to our interfaith relationships with our neighbors," Noffsinger said, referring to the "Resolution Urging Forbearance" adopted by the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference in 2008 ( www.cobannualconference.org/ac_statements/resolution_urging_forbearance.pdf ). He also cited a paper from the Committee on Interchurch Relations adopted by the 1982 Conference, calling Brethren to "study ways that interfaith dialog may lead to a visible expression of God’s plan of unity for all of humanity."

This week the denomination’s Peace and Witness Ministry also issued an Action Alert offering ideas for congregations and individuals to "seek to make manifest the reign of God in this world" as the 9/11 anniversary approaches. Go to www.brethren.org/site/MessageViewer?em_id=7801.0&dlv_id=0 for the alert, including links to the International Day of Prayer for Peace website of On Earth Peace, an online petition to cut military spending, and helpful background from Annual Conference statements.

A blog site has been set up by the Peace and Witness Ministry with an invitation for Church of the Brethren congregations to share their plans for marking the anniversary of Sept. 11 this year. Go to http://blog.brethren.org/?p=147 to share "Another Way of Living on 9/11."

Other Christian responses:

World Council of Churches general secretary Olav Fykse Tveit this week offered a message of peace to Muslim leaders as they end the celebration of Ramadan, a month of fasting and prayer. Tveit said the WCC and its member churches around the world reject and firmly condemn acts that might cause violence between Muslim and Christian communities. "Religious leaders have a unique role and the moral responsibility to work towards reconciliation and healing within their own communities and between communities," the letter said ( www.oikoumene.org/index.php?RDCT=4778073cb367d018c1f3 ).

The National Council of Churches release from the interfaith press conference quoted Ingrid Mattson, president of the Islamic Society of America, as saying that "Muslims in America report the highest degree of anxiety they have felt since Sept. 11, 2001." Also speaking at the press conference was Rabbi David Saperstein, executive director of the Union for Reform Judaism, who said religious leaders had no choice but to gather together in response to anti-Muslim rhetoric. On Sept. 2 the NCC and its Interfaith Relations Commission reiterated a call for Christians and people of other faiths to express respect for Muslims and Islam, condemning the plans by the Florida church as "misguided or confused about the love of neighbor by which Christ calls us to live.... Such open acts of hatred are not a witness to Christian faith, but a grave trespass against the ninth commandment, a bearing of false witness against our neighbor. They contradict the ministry of Christ and the witness of the church in the world." Find the NCC statements at www.ncccusa.org.

Mennonite Central Committee executive director J. Ron Byler wrote a pastoral letter to Anabaptist churches, urging congregations to redouble their efforts to reach out to Muslims in their communities. Citing Jesus’ statements in Matthew 22:34-40 and passages from Genesis 1:27, 1 John 4:7-21, Hebrews 13:1-2, and 1 Peter 4:8-10, the letter said in part, "MCC US calls on the Florida church that has stated its intent to burn copies of the Quran on the anniversary of the attacks to abandon the plan and instead embrace Christ’s love for all."

Open Doors, a group serving persecuted Christians worldwide, warned that the burning of a Quran could result in increase of persecution against Christians in Muslim-dominated countries. The group reported that already over the past weekend, angry crowds in Afghanistan and Indonesia protested and threatened retaliation. Open Doors USA president/CEO Carl Moeller said: "The planned burning of the Quran is a disaster on two fronts: It violates the command of Jesus to love our neighbor and it would likely cause Christians worldwide to be more vilified and persecuted."

MassBible (the Massachusetts Bible Society) issued a release calling the burning of the Quran "an act of hatred against Muslims and the Islamic faith.... As people of the Book, we are joined to Islam and Judaism in a special way and as an organization that has sought to put that Book into people's hands for 201 years, we cannot stand idly by while the sacred text of a sister religion is burned as our beloved Bibles once were." The organization announced that "lest Muslim culture believe that Rev. Jones' position represents that of all Christians," it was prepared to give away two Qurans for every one that was burned, and would donate them to Muslims who were without access to their sacred text.

Church World Service, a worldwide Christian service organization of which the Church of the Brethren is a member, also sent out a release today. John L. McCullough, executive director, issued a statement that said, in part, "We are deeply disappointed and offended by the intent of any Christian pastor or congregation that chooses to burn the Koran, whether in commemoration of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks or for any other reason.... Desecrating the writings others deem sacred accomplishes nothing. It is malicious and undercuts core Christian values and our shared humanity. We caution against anyone choosing to disparage Christianity because of the actions of a few, just as we reject those who condemn Islam because of actions by a few nine years ago. Let us turn back all efforts to incite hatred and fear and embrace the challenge of loving our neighbor as

Source: 9/9/2010 Newsline Special

Brethren worship resources for the anniversary of Sept. 11.

The following worship resources are offered for use this weekend by congregations marking the anniversary of the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. The resources are written by Josh Brockway, the Church of the Brethren’s director of Spiritual Life and Discipleship.

Litany of Mourning and Commitment

Leader: Lord of Hope, as we gather we remember.
People: We remember the fear descending from the blue sky.
Leader: We remember,
People: The selfless acts of all who needlessly perished that September day.
Leader: We mourn.
People: We mourn those who died then, and those who continue to face violence every day.
Leader: We mourn,
People: The loss of innocence and grace in this fallen world.
Leader: We confess,
People: That we, as your followers, have too often reacted in fear rather than hope.
Leader: We confess,
People: That we have too often been silent in the face of violence throughout the world.
Leader: We commit,
People: To living as people of your peace, providing a witness to this world.
Leader: We commit,
People: To speaking truth in love, trusting in the nonviolent witness of the Cross.

Prayer

God of Abraham, you have created all peoples from dust, even still we seek to violently return your creation to that same dust in your name. Forgive us, we pray, for the violence we commit in both word and deed and embolden us as your people secure in the hope of your Kingdom of Peace, that we may seek and witness to ways which make for peace and life. In the name of the One who witnessed to your way, even to death, Jesus the Risen Christ, AMEN.

Source: 9/9/2010 Newsline Special

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. Carol Bowman, Charles Culbertson, Chris Douglas, Kim Ebersole, Anna Emrick, Ron Keener, Donna Kline, Jon Kobel, LethaJoy Martin, Wendy McFadden, Nancy Miner, Callie Surber, Becky Ullom, Christopher W. Zepp contributed to this report.

NEWS

• Brethren Disaster Ministries marks fifth anniversary of Katrina.
  
• Church of the Brethren membership experiences decline in 2009.
  
• Districts begin hearings on issues of sexuality.
  
• Bethany Seminary launches MA Connections program.
  
• BBT CFO Jerry Rodeffer resigns from position.

UPCOMING EVENTS

• Bethany president to keynote 2010 Progressive Brethren Gathering.
  
• Global Mission Offering supports worldwide Brethren ministries.
  
• Webinars to address church strategies for serving, sharing, inviting.
  
• Brethren hold 40th Annual Dunker Church Service at Antietam.

BRETHREN BITS

• Personnel, job openings, WCC stewards program, jr. high conference, more.

Brethren Disaster Ministries marks fifth anniversary of Katrina.

Hurricane Katrina made landfall on the Louisiana coast on Aug. 29, 2005. Five years later, the Brethren Disaster Ministries rebuilding project in St. Bernard Parish, La., is still working on rebuilding homes destroyed by Katrina.

It is the sixth Brethren Disaster Ministries-run project to rebuild homes for families affected by the hurricane. Current project leaders are John and Mary Mueller and Brethren Volunteer Service worker Steve Schellenberg.

Over the five years since the devastation of New Orleans and surrounding Gulf coastline, volunteers working through Brethren Disaster Ministries have given thousands of hours to rebuild hundreds of homes. The church’s Children’s Disaster Services also has helped care for thousands of children affected by the disaster.

"We are accomplishing what is typical of most Brethren disaster sites: helping families get back into their homes," said Mary Mueller in a telephone interview this week. In St. Bernard Parish, Brethren Disaster Ministries is representing the church at its best by "serving the people who would have fallen through the cracks," she added.

The Muellers have worked for more than three years in St. Bernard Parish, an area of Lousiana just east of New Orleans. During that time they have helped host and lead thousands of volunteers--and they have seen the community turn around.

It was a "ghost town"--in Mary Mueller’s words--when they arrived in early 2007, a place where debris lined the side walks and strip malls were deserted. Now the area is becoming revitalized, businesses have reopened, schools are being rebuilt.

"It’s wonderful to see the comeback...it is a community transformed," she said, remembering her emotional response one day when she saw someone planting flowers in a front yard. "My heart just leaped," she said, because it was a sign the community was moving beyond survival mode.

Brethren Disaster Ministries is partnering with the St. Bernard Project to rebuild homes in the parish. In total the project has put 290 families back in their homes. And the Brethren have helped with the majority of those houses, Mueller reported.

To commemorate the fifth anniversary of the hurricane, the St. Bernard Project is holding a 50-hour rebuild to show how much can be done on a house in that short period of time. The work for this week’s Brethren Disaster Ministries volunteers--14 Brethren from Virlina District, and two hospice nurses who came along--has included preparing a house for an influx of volunteers taking part in the special project. The Virlina group also has worked on several other homes, installing flooring and exterior siding, putting up drywall and storm shutters, repairing a leaky chimney and a rotted out soffit--in fact, a "pretty typical week" according to Mueller.

Mueller encourages people to consider volunteering with Brethren Disaster Ministries. "Whether they volunteer at this site or any other site, it’s a very good thing, and it is so encouraging for survivors," she said.

And then she added a helpful reminder to new disaster volunteers, perhaps learned from years of serving Katrina survivors: "You never know when you’ll be on the receiving end of something like this."

Hurricane Katrina statistics as reported by Brethren Disaster Ministries:

• Brethren Disaster Ministries volunteers have rebuilt homes in six communities: Citronelle, Ala.; Lucedale, Miss.; McComb, Miss.,; Pearl River, La.; East New Orleans, La.; and Chalmette and Arabi in St. Bernard Parish, La. The program also contributed to a New Orleans Ecumenical Build in cooperation with Church World Service and a number of other Christian organizations.
  
  
• The ministry has served 454 families affected by the hurricane.
  
  
• A total of 4,929 volunteers have worked at Katrina rebuilding, giving 38,691 work days or 309,528 work hours representing a value of donated labor of $6,453,659 (at $20.85 per hour).

Hurricane Katrina statistics as reported by Children’s Disaster Services:

• The program cared for children in the Gulf region directly affected by the storm, in places that received families displaced by the hurricane, and in New Orleans when displaced families began to return. The 12 communities where Katrina-related child support has been provided are Los Angeles and San Bernardino, Calif.; Denver, Colo.; Pensacola and Fort Walton Beach, Fla.; Lafayette, La.; Norfolk and Blackstone, Va.; Kingwood, W.Va.; Mobile, Ala.; Gulf Port, Miss.; and the Welcome Home Center in New Orleans.
  
  
• Children’s Disaster Services has made a total of 4,856 child contacts related to Hurricane Katrina.
  
  
• A total of 173 volunteers with the program have served 2,055 days doing Katrina relief work, or 16,440 volunteer hours valued at $342,774 in donated labor.

A short video clip about the fifth anniversary of Katrina is featured at www.youtube.com/user/brethrendisastermin. Worship resources for remembering Hurricane Katrina this Sunday are offered by the National Council of Churches Eco-Justice program at www.nccecojustice.org/resources/Katrina5Anniversary.php.

Source: 8/27/2010 Newsline

Church of the Brethren membership experiences decline in 2009.

The Church of the Brethren denomination’s membership declined by almost 1,600 people in 2009, according to data from the "Church of the Brethren Yearbook," and continues a decades-long trend of declining membership since the 1960s. The denomination’s total membership stood at 122,810 in 2009, declining from the 124,408 members reported by congregations in 2008. The denomination reported a total average weekly worship attendance of 58,830 for the year, also a decline from the previous year’s 59,084.

Yearbook figures are based on data provided by congregations that turn in statistical reports. In 2009, 686 or 65.5 percent of Church of the Brethren congregations turned in a statistical report--a number consistent with most recent years providing a consistent means for comparing statistics. About 66 percent reported in 2008.

Atlantic Northeast continues as the largest district, with 14,336 members in 2009, and also is the leading district in terms of membership decline having lost 335 members. The second largest district is Shenandoah District with 14,189 members in 2009, representing a gain of 33 people over 2008. The third largest is Virlina District with 10,947 members, a decline of 69. Mid-Atlantic District gained the most members, 37, to arrive at a total membership of 9,694 for 2009.

The total number of congregations in the denomination, which includes the United States and Puerto Rico, also declined by five to 994 in 2009, down from 999 in 2008. There were 53 fellowships and projects in 2009, an increase of three from the previous year.

The number of baptisms reported by congregations, 1,394, posted a sharp decline from the previous year’s 1,714, but was higher than the 1,380 reported in 2007.

Giving to general ministries of the denomination--which totaled $3,519,737 in 2009--fell by more than $91,000 from 2008's total of $3,611,474. Giving to special purpose funds such as the Emergency Disaster Fund or other specially designated gifts to the work of the denomination, came to $1,401,454 in 2009, a drop of almost $354,000 from the previous year’s total of $1,755,359. Such giving, especially to the EDF, often is determined by the nature and scope of disasters or other events that occurred during that period.

Giving to the other two Annual Conference agencies that receive financial support from congregations also dropped in 2009, with Bethany Theological Seminary seeing a decline of more than $22,000, and On Earth Peace seeing a decline of more than $52,000. In 2009, Bethany reported actual giving of $414,988 and On Earth Peace reported $51,878.

The 2010 Yearbook will be available this fall in a new electronic format on CD, for the price of $21.50 and will be shipped automatically to customers on the standing order list with Brethren Press. Others should purchase the Yearbook at www.BrethrenPress.com or call 800-441-3712.

Source: 8/27/2010 Newsline

Districts begin hearings on issues of sexuality.

Some Church of the Brethren districts have begun to hold hearings on issues of sexuality at their district conferences, and others are beginning to plan for such hearings this fall and winter, led by district delegates to the Standing Committee of the Church of the Brethren’s Annual Conference.

The hearings are a central part of the "Special Response" process leading up to a decision by the 2011 Conference on two items of business: "A Statement of Confession and Commitment" from the 2008 Standing Committee ( www.cobannualconference.org/pittsburgh/A_Statement_of_Confession_and_Commitment.pdf ), and "Query: Language on Same Sex Covenantal Relationships" from Northern Indiana District ( www.cobannualconference.org/pittsburgh/NB_2_Query-Language_on_Same_Sex_Covenental_Relationships.pdf ). Hearings in each of the denomination’s 23 districts will provide feedback to Standing Committee as it meets prior to the Conference next July in Grand Rapids, Mich., to frame a recommendation on the two business items.

In Southern Pennsylvania District, the District Conference on Sept. 17-18 will include two insight sessions on the Special Response process led by Standing Committee members. Also, the district plans to offer "Zone Hearings" on the two items of business coming to the Conference.

At least one district is providing training for church leaders to hold Bible studies in congregations, which also is a recommended part of the Special Response process ( the Bible study resource may be downloaded from www.cobannualconference.org/pdfs/special_response_resource.pdf ).

Shenandoah District will offer opportunities for pastors and church leaders to receive training and resources for congregational Bible studies. On Aug. 28, Shenandoah pastors and church leaders are invited to Linville Creek Church of the Brethren in Broadway, Va., for an evening training. On Sept. 9, 30 and Oct. 14 Minister’s Bookshelf events will review resource documents and books that will assist with facilitating conversations.

Illinois and Wisconsin District has announced regional listening sessions in the northeast, northwest, south, and central parts of the state of Illinois. District churches also are encouraged to engage in the Bible study to provide a foundation for the listening sessions.

The Middle Pennsylvania District newsletter has announced three hearing sessions, with a memo reviewing the Special Response process and noting, "This attempt to discern the mind of Christ through the members of the Church now comes even closer to home." Middle Pennsylvania hearings will be Sept. 23 from 7-9 p.m. at Pine Glen Church of the Brethren in Lewistown, Pa.; Oct. 26 from 7-9 p.m. at Hollidaysburg (Pa.) Church of the Brethren; and Nov. 7 from 2:30-4:30 p.m. at Snake Spring Valley Church of the Brethren in Everett, Pa. The district also is encouraging members to prepare for hearings using the Special Response Bible study.

Northern Plains District hopes to have five hearings around the district some time during October and November, with members welcome to attend whichever hearing bests suits their schedules. "It is hoped that these hearings will provide a wide range of persons for the listening and input to Standing Committee," the district newsletter noted. "Most of all, these events will let us as Brethren grow with respect and grace through our tensions and differences."

For more about the Special Response process see www.cobannualconference.org/special_response_resource.html. The Newsline editor welcomes reports from districts about their plans related to the Special Response process, please send to cobnews@brethren.org.

Source: 8/27/2010 Newsline

Bethany Seminary launches MA Connections program.

Since 2002, Bethany Theological Seminary has offered a master of divinity degree completion track titled "MDiv Connections" for students unable to relocate to the seminary’s campus in Richmond, Ind. On July 12, the seminary received approval from its accrediting body, the Association of Theological Schools (ATS), to launch an "MA Connections" track for students working on master of arts degrees in theological reflection and research.

The seminary will officially enroll students in the new track in the Spring 2011 semester. New and continuing students interested in MA Connections can take courses prior to Spring 2011 and transfer them into the track.

Distributed education tracks offer degrees through classes in a variety of formats: weekend or two-week intensives on campus, online courses, hybrid courses (a mix of online and residential), and off-site courses. ATS requires that students take half of the courses for the degree at the Richmond campus. The other half may be online courses or taken at the Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center or at other ATS-accredited schools.

The MA thesis sequence courses, which are the core classes of the program, will be offered in a variety of formats: as weekend intensives, hybrid classes, or meeting weekly with some students physically present in the classroom and others connected via video. Students enrolled in MA Connections will have access to Bethany's library resources while they are attending classes on the Richmond campus, and to the many online resources available through the library including the American Theological Library Association's ATLA Religion Database and ATLAS full-text PDF section. Both the MA and MDiv Connections tracks assume a part-time course load. MA Connections students will have six years to complete their degrees.

"With a growing number of students interested in distributed education, Bethany will begin to offer other courses in alternative formats in the near future," said academic dean Steve Schweitzer. "These changes come at the same time as curriculum review is underway at the seminary, and the convergence of these factors should allow us room to think 'outside the box' in terms of what we are teaching and how we are teaching it."

Malinda Berry, instructor in theological studies and director of Bethany’s master of arts program, will serve as administrator of MA Connections. Those interested in MA Connections may contact berryma@bethanyseminary.edu or the Admissions Office at enroll@bethanyseminary.edu.

-- Marcia Shetler is director of public relations for Bethany Seminary.

Source: 8/27/2010 Newsline

BBT CFO Jerry Rodeffer resigns from position.

Jerry Rodeffer resigned from his position as chief financial officer of Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT) on Aug. 11 for medical reasons.

Rodeffer had served in this role for nearly two years, having begun on Nov. 19, 2008. He directed BBT's finance department and oversaw management of nine national investment managers and the company's investment system that secures the assets of Brethren Pension Plan members and Brethren Foundation clients.

Rodeffer had held the position previously, when from Nov. 1990-July 1994 he served as BBT's chief financial officer and treasurer.

Source: 8/27/2010 Newsline

Bethany president to keynote 2010 Progressive Brethren Gathering.

The third Progressive Brethren Gathering will be held on Nov. 12-14 at Manchester Church of the Brethren in North Manchester, Ind. Sponsored by Womaen’s Caucus, Voices for an Open Spirit, and the Brethren Mennonite Council for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Interests (BMC), the conference will explore the theme "Forward Together: Conversations Towards an Enlivened Community."

Ruthann Knechel Johansen, president of Bethany Theological Seminary, will be the keynote speaker. Her presentation is entitled, "Becoming Incarnational People." Johansen became president of the seminary in July 2007. For the previous 20 years she had been a professor at the University of Notre Dame where she taught in the Program of Liberal Studies, administered the interdisciplinary Core Course in the College of Arts and Letters, and was a Fellow of the Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies.

In addition to the keynote address, workshops will offer opportunities for conversation and reflection, and worship will be an important part of the event. Debbie Eisenbise, pastor of Skyridge Church of the Brethren in Kalamazoo, Mich., and Kreston Lipscomb, pastor of First Church of the Brethren in Springfield, Ill., are scheduled to preach, and Mutual Kumquat will perform.

Cost of the two-day event is $100, with limited scholarships available and special rates for students and children. On-line registration is available at www.progressivebrethren.org. For more information contact Carol Wise at 612-343-2060 or cwise@bmclgbt.org.

Source: 8/27/2010 Newsline

Global Mission Offering supports worldwide Brethren ministries.

The theme for this year’s Global Mission Offering benefitting the global mission of the Church of the Brethren is "Turn the World Upside Down" (Acts 17:6b). Oct. 10 is the suggested date. Offering resources include interpretation and sermon notes and worship resources, and a map poster of the global ministries of the Church of the Brethren, in both English and Spanish. Both items were sent to each congregation in a recent Source packet. Churches on the standing order list also have received bulletin insert/offering envelope combos by mail. Those not on the standing order list may request the materials from Brethren Press at 800-441-3712.

Also available from the Stewardship and Donor Development office is a supplemental resource to the "More Than Enough" theme for fall stewardship emphases in congregations. The resource offers a time-line for using "More Than Enough" materials, sermon and worship resources, sample letters, Bible studies, and more. It is available for purchase in electronic form, normally priced at $20. The first 20 Brethren congregations to order will receive a $5 discount. Order from Kathy Craig at the Ecumenical Stewardship Center at 800-835-5671 and identify your Church of the Brethren congregation. Contact Church of the Brethren stewardship formation coordinator Carol Bowman at cbowman@brethren.org or 509-663-2833.

Source: 8/27/2010 Newsline

Webinars to address church strategies for serving, sharing, inviting.

The next webinars offered by the Church of the Brethren’s Congregational Life Ministries are held in cooperation with New Life Ministries. "Beyond the Church Door: Healthy Strategies for Serving, Sharing, and Inviting" will be offered on Sept. 14 at 12:30-1:30 p.m. Pacific time (3:30-4:30 p.m. eastern); and Sept. 16 at 5:30-6:30 p.m. Pacific (8:30-9:30 p.m. eastern).

The webinars will provide an introduction to the book and DVD of the same title by Steve Clapp and Fred Bernhard. Participants will learn how to engage congregations in new practices of servant evangelism, inviting, and faith-sharing. Bernhard has co-authored books on hospitality including "Widening the Welcome of Your Church" and "Deep and Wide: Hospitality and the Faithful Church." Clapp is the author of more than 40 books on congregational life and president of Christian Community, a nonprofit organization focused on congregational health.

Link to the webinars at www.bethanyseminary.edu/webcast/transformation2010. For more information contact Stan Dueck, director of Transforming Practices, at 717-335-3226 or sdueck@brethren.org.

Source: 8/27/2010 Newsline

Brethren hold 40th Annual Dunker Church Service at Antietam.

Frank Ramirez, pastor of Everett (Pa.) Church of the Brethren and author of many Brethren Press titles, will preach for the 40th Annual Dunker Church Service at the Antietam National Battlefield in Sharpsburg, Md., on Sept. 19. The service is to start at 3 p.m. It is sponsored by area Churches of the Brethren.

The worship service will be held in the restored Mumma Meeting House on the battlefield site, commonly referred to today as the Dunker Church. The meetinghouse was built in 1853 and was heavily damaged during the Sept. 17, 1862, Battle of Antietam. After extensive repairs were made, services resumed in the summer of 1864.

Ramirez also will preach at Sharpsburg (Md.) Church of the Brethren that Sunday morning, at 9:30 a.m. His many books include two popular volumes of stories about Brethren historical figures, "The Meanest Man in Patrick County" and "Brethren Brush with Greatness." He also is the author of the feature "Out of Context," which appears weekly in the Brethren Press curriculum for adults, "Guide for Biblical Studies."

For more information about the service contact Eddie Edmonds at 304-267-4135 or Tom Fralin at 301-432-2653.

Source: 8/27/2010 Newsline

Brethren bits: Personnel, job openings, WCC stewards program, Jr. High Conference, more.

• Kirk Carpenter, customer service specialist for Brethren Press, has resigned effective Sept. 17. He began working for Brethren Press on May 12, 2008, just after completing a bachelor of arts degree in Biblical and Theological Studies from North Park University in Chicago. He has helped maintain an e-commerce site, monitored inventory, and assisted with the book store at National Youth Conference. He and his family are moving to Seattle, Wash.
  
  
• Sue Snyder has begun a volunteer position at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., providing administrative support for several departments. Her previous work for the church has included coordinating the General Secretary’s office.
  
  
• Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT) seeks to fill the position of chief financial officer. This full-time salaried position is based at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill. BBT is an agency of the Church of the Brethren and is a not-for-profit organization that provides pension, insurance, foundation, and credit union services for 6,000 members and clients nationwide. The CFO’s chief responsibility is to safeguard BBT’s assets and assets under management, providing oversight of the Finance Department, the budgeting process, annual audit and audit functions, investment managers, and compliance issues. The CFO works with each program unit to develop the annual budget and then monitors all expenses against the budget; 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; 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; coordinates all of BBT’s tax filings and insurance needs; ensures that BBT remains compliant with all applicable organizational and industry-related laws, policies, procedures, rules, and regulations. The CFO travels to the Annual Conference, BBT Board meetings, and other events as appropriate. 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. The 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 supervisor and two colleagues), and salary-range expectation to Donna March at 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 BBT, visit www.brethrenbenefittrust.org. The interviewing process will begin Sept. 14. The position will be filled as soon as possible.
  
  
• Brethren Press seeks a customer service inventory specialist to work at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill. Responsibilities include providing professional customer service functions by handling telephone, fax, mail, and Internet orders; maintaining a thorough knowledge of products offered by Brethren Press; optimizing the e-commerce site with consistent product additions, updates, and promotions; specializing in providing resource information to congregations and individuals; maintaining inventory levels in an accurate and timely way through the use of purchase orders, invoices, credit memos, monthly reports, and journals; providing sales and marketing support services; assisting in coordinating and developing standardized procedures and maintaining written documentation. Qualifications include ability to become familiar with Church of the Brethren organization and beliefs and to operate out of the vision of the denomination; ability to relate with integrity and respect in and beyond the organization; strong interpersonal skills that contribute to effective interaction with customers and with colleagues; fundamental understanding of accounting theory and practice; good listening and telephone skills and competency in oral and written communication; proficient abilities in typing and data entry; ability to work well in a team environment, juggling several tasks simultaneously; knowledge of Christian education and the resourcing of congregations. Required education and experience include customer service functions; computer literacy; experience with sales, marketing, inventory management, and reporting; with Christian education experience desirable. A high school diploma is required, some college education preferred. Applications are accepted immediately and will be received until the position is filled. A position description and application form are available on request. Apply by completing the application form and submitting a resume and letter of application, and requesting three references to send letters of recommendation to the Office of Human Resources, Church of the Brethren, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120-1694; 800-323-8039, ext. 258; kkrog@brethren.org.
  
  
• The World Council of Churches (WCC) is accepting applications for its Stewards Program 2011. Young adult Christians ages 18-30 from around the world are invited to apply for one of two hands-on learning experiences: the WCC Central Committee meeting on Feb. 8-24 in Switzerland; and the International Ecumenical Peace Convocation on May 12-26 in Jamaica. During the meetings stewards will work in the areas of worship, conference room, documentation, press office, sound, and other administrative and support tasks. Send in application forms by Sept. 30 for the Central Committee meeting, by Nov. 30 for the IEPC. More information is at www.oikoumene.org/programmes/the-wcc-and-the-ecumenical-movement-in-the-21st-century/youth-in-the-ecumenical-movement/stewards-leadership-training.html.
  
  
• Fees for next year’s National Junior High Conference have been set by the Youth and Young Adult Ministry: $150 for registrations received between Jan. 10 and April 15, after which costs go up to $175. Travel scholarships of $175 are available for those who live west of the Mississippi. The event is June 17-19 at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College ( www.brethren.org/njhc ).
  
  
• Two events are underway at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md.: The annual joint orientation of Brethren Volunteer Service and Brethren Revival Fellowship, with 11 volunteers; and a Brethren Disaster Ministries Leadership Seminar for about 100 people.
  
  
• Two resources on evangelism are recommended by Jonathan Shively, executive director of Congregational Life Ministries: The upcoming "Evangelism in the Community" meeting focused on smaller churches in cities, Nov. 3-7 in Detroit, Mich. "Through our denomination’s Evangelism Connections partnership, this United Church of Christ event is open to Church of the Brethren participants as well," he reported (go to www.ucc.org/evangelism/E.vents). The second resource, EvangeLectionary, is at www.evangelismconnections.org and offers reflections on the lectionary text, a brief meditation, related quotation, illustration, and a worship resource. Shively is a regular contributor to the site and prepared the lectionary reflections for Aug. 8.
  
  
• Sparked by World Food Day on Oct. 16, the Global Food Crisis Fund is encouraging congregations to observe a hunger or food emphasis this fall. "In an era when a billion people endure chronic hunger and 18,000 children die each day from hunger-related causes, the 2010 World Food Day theme, ‘Food for All: Working Together Works!’ holds special meaning for the Church of the Brethren," said an announcement. Congregations may join the emphasis either on Oct. 16 or another date such as a harvest celebration or Thanksgiving. "As donations to the Global Food Crisis Fund are running 50 percent behind those of a year ago, heightened support becomes crucial," the announcement said. Give to the fund through "My 2-Cents Worth" offerings, designations for a specific program or country, memorials, or tributes to loved ones. For more visit www.brethren.org/globalfoodcrisisfund. The latest grants from the fund are to the Church of the Brethren in Haiti for water conservation on the island of La Tortue and to Care of Creation Kenya for construction of a tree nursery in the Rift Valley. Each grant was $4,000.
  
  
• The first of this fall’s denominational deacon trainings is Sept. 11 at Lititz (Pa.) Church of the Brethren. Register by Sept. 6 with the church at 717-626-2131 or dlamborn@lititzcob.org. Cost is $15, which includes lunch. Continuing education units are available for an additional $10. For other fall training sessions visit www.brethren.org/deacontraining or contact Donna Kline, director of the Church of the Brethren’s Deacon Ministry, 800-323-8039 or dkline@brethren.org.
  
  
• On Earth Peace is offering conference calls to prepare congregations for the International Day of Prayer for Peace on Sept. 21. The next two calls on Aug. 31 at 12:30 p.m. (eastern) and Sept. 2 at 5 p.m. (eastern) will cover basic information about getting the word out to media about IDPP events--or any other event a congregation may be planning. Resource people are On Earth Peace communications coordinator Gimbiya Kettering and Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of News Services for the Church of the Brethren. Call 712-338-8730 and use access code 173#.
  
  
• Mount Bethel Church of the Brethren near Eagle Rock, Va., celebrates 125 years on Aug. 29.
  
  
• Brethren Housing Association is holding a benefit "Concert of Hope" with Ken Medema--who performed at the National Youth Conference--at Elizabethtown (Pa.) Church of the Brethren on Sept. 9 from 6-9 p.m. The ministry provides housing to homeless families. A free will offering will be taken, and a dessert reception follows. Obtain tickets at www.housingforhope.org.
  
  
• An annual Labor Day Coffee Break in Kansas begun in 1961 by pastor Russell Kiester and the Men’s Fellowship at the Church of the Brethren in Sabetha, continues this year coordinated by Trinity Church of the Brethren. The ministry offers refreshments to travelers at the "4-Mile Corner" rest stop at the junction of Highways 75 and 36. Cheryl Mishler, one of the organizers, reports that over the years an estimated 100,000-plus people have been served with over 4, 500 dozen cookies, 500 pounds of coffee, and 300 gallons of orange juice. More than 16,000 volunteers have taken part. Many businesses in Sabetha have provided supplies and a variety of churches have helped out. "What began as a ministry of service by the Sabetha Church of the Brethren men," Mishler reported, "has now become a service of the community of Sabetha."
  
  
• Manchester College in Indiana is expecting record numbers for a third straight year. The college expects more than 1,270 students when classes begin Sept. 1--its largest enrollment since the Vietnam era and at least 5 percent more than last fall.
  
  
• In September the Brethren Voices community cable show from Portland (Ore.) Peace Church of the Brethren interviews Kay Guyer, Manchester College student and a member of the National Youth Cabinet of the Church of the Brethren. Guyer has received recognition for her creative videos such as "Brethren We Have Met to Jump," which won the video contest at the 300th Anniversary Annual Conference. Order a copy from producer Ed Groff at groffprod1@msn.com.
  
  
• The family of Art Gish, Brethren peacemaker who died in a farming accident in July, has established a memorial "Art Gish Peacemaking Fund" to help young people get started in peacemaking. New Covenant Fellowship in Athens, Ohio, is receiving contributions to the fund.

Source: 8/27/2010 Newsline

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. Jordan Blevins, Kathleen Campanella, Jeri S. Kornegay, Karin L. Krog, LethaJoy Martin, Nancy Miner, Howard Royer, Brian Solem, Becky Ullom, Carol Wise, Ed Woolf , Jane Yount contributed to this report.

NEWS

• Church gains memo of understanding with Selective Service System.
  
• Conference considers ‘Peace Among the Peoples.’
  
• Church of the Brethren joins complaint on CIA treatment of detainees.
  
• BBT urges US President to help protect indigenous peoples.
  
• Brethren contribute $40,000 to flood relief in Pakistan.
  
• Northern Ohio District meets on theme of freedom.
  
• Harold Smith is remembered for leadership of On Earth Peace.

UPCOMING EVENTS

• On Earth Peace offers ‘You Can’t Stop the River’ training.
  
• Mundey to lead webinar on ‘Leadership that Transforms.’

PERSONNEL

• Interim ministry team is announced by Southeastern District.
  
• Barkley to direct the Brethren Historical Library and Archives.

BRETHREN BITS

• Remembrance, personnel, NYC update, China delegation, more.