Brethren bits

On Nov. 7 Manchester University inaugurated Dave McFadden as president “in a spirit of abundance,” said a release from the university in North Manchester, Ind. McFadden is a member of the Church of the Brethren and will serve as the 15th president in the university’s 125-year-history. “Cordier Auditorium was full Friday--an abundant response to a man who has poured his heart and soul into Manchester University for decades, according to Board of Trustees chair D. Randall Brown, who presented the Presidential Medallion to Dave McFadden,” the release said. McFadden spoke about abundance and gratitude. “Going forward, we will be audacious in embracing opportunity,” he said. “We aim to grow our total enrollment by as many as a thousand students by the end of this decade, grounding new programs in our mission and infusing them with our values. Why? Because the world needs more Manchester graduates. We will be a source of hope and optimism, of promise and possibility, of ability and conviction.” Among events at the inauguration, an anthem titled “Only Now” was commissioned by McFadden and composed by Brethren musician and Manchester alumnus Shawn Kirchner, adapting excerpts from the Wendell Berry novel “Hannah Coulter.” McFadden also thanked Jo Young Switzer and Bill Robinson, former Manchester presidents who were honored for their years of service. See www.manchester.edu/news/McFaddeninauguration2014.htm .

• Camp Alexander Mack in Milford, Ind., and the Indiana Camp Board are hosting a retirement party to honor Rex Miller. The event takes place at Camp Mack on Saturday, Nov. 22, from 1-4 p.m. “All those who have a love for camp or have known Rex during his lifetime of involvement in outdoor ministries are invited to join us in celebrating this gift of service to the church and the wider community,” said an invitation. There will be a 30-minute program at 1:15 p.m. followed by a reception with cake and ice cream. A table will be set up for people to write or drop off comments, memories, or letters for Miller that will be made into a book. If you are not able to attend, tributes can be mailed to Peggy Miller at P.O. Box 117, Milford, IN 46542-0117 or e-mailed to prmiller@bnin.net.

• Brethren Disaster Ministries has announced some interim staffing during a time when the program is without a director. Jenn Dorsch has been hired as a temporary part-time program assistant to help out three days a week, starting Oct. 30. She will be the point of contact for the project leaders on rebuilding sites, and also is assisting with communications for the Nigeria Crisis Response, as well as providing other support to the Brethren Disaster Ministries staff.

• The Church of the Brethren is seeking an individual to fill a full-time salaried position of coordinator of Donor Communications. This position is based at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill. Major responsibilities are to create and maintain relationships with Church of the Brethren congregations and individuals through various mediums of communication, encouraging donor awareness and involvement in denominational ministries, leading to increased giving and support of the mission and ministries of the church. Required skills and knowledge include knowledge of Church of the Brethren heritage, theology, and polity; ability to articulate and operate out of the vision of the Mission and Ministry Board; high professional level of communication and well-crafted writing; collaborative working style; basic knowledge of financial planning tools and estate laws; proficiency with Blackbaud (Convio), all Microsoft Office programs, Adobe InDesign, Acrobat Pro, and Photoshop, and familiarity with basics of web design and HTML. A bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience is required, with experience in communications, fundraising, public relations, or marketing desired. Applications will be received beginning immediately and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the position is filled. Request the application form by contacting the Office of Human Resources, Church of the Brethren, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120; 800-323-8039 ext. 367; humanresources@brethren.org . The Church of the Brethren is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

• The Church of the Brethren seeks two individuals to fill a temporary part-time kitchen assistant position at the Zigler Hospitality Center of the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. The position works directly with the lead cook. The temporary part-time kitchen assistant assists in preparing food for guests of the Zigler Hospitality Center and works in the dish room following all sanitation and health department rules and regulations as prescribed by the lead cook. Responsibilities include assisting in proper handling of food; preparing and replenishing food for salad bar and desserts; cleaning and set up; snack preparation; operating and cleaning dishwashing machine; sorting, stacking, and putting away dishes; pre-soaking, rinsing, and cleaning silverware, glasses, and dishes; and other assignments. The preferred candidate will have experience assisting in a kitchen environment and must be able to lift a limit of 35 pounds and exercise care in handling sharp equipment and power-operated equipment. Applications will be received and reviewed beginning immediately until the position is filled. Request the application packet and complete job description by contacting the Office of Human Resources, Church of the Brethren, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120; 800-323-8039 ext. 367; humanresources@brethren.org . The Church of the Brethren is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

• There is a new registration address for the webinar “For We Are Co-Workers in God’s Service: The Relationship between Farm Workers and Gardens” on Tuesday, Nov. 18, at 7 p.m. (Eastern time). Through the Going to the Garden grant initiative of the Office of Public Witness and Global Food Crisis Fund, this webinar will focus on issues surrounding the national farm workers movement to create better work and living standards. The webinar will hear from individuals deeply involved with the National Farm Worker Ministry (NFWM) and the NFWM's Youth and Young Adult network: Lindsay Andreolli-Comstock, an ordained Baptist minister and human-trafficking specialist, and executive director of the National Farm Worker Ministry; Nico Gumbs, the Florida state coordinator of the National Farm Worker Ministry’s youth-led program, YAYA; and Daniel McClain, director of Program Operations for Graduate Theological Programs at Loyola University Maryland whose areas of research and publishing include the doctrine of creation. To attend the webinar register at www.anymeeting.com/PIID=EB51D685814931 .

• Musa Mambula, a leader in Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN, the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria), will be speaking on Nov. 20, at 7:30 p.m., at the Young Center for Anabaptist and Pietist Studies at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College, in the Bucher Meetinghouse. He also is scheduled to speak on Dec. 30, at 6 p.m., at Cross Keys Village-The Brethren Home Community in New Oxford, Pa. The topic will be “Religion and Terror in Northeastern Nigeria: Boko Haram, Christians, and Modern Muslims,” and he will share information about recent attacks by the insurgent group Boko Haram in northeast Nigeria, and the takeover of the headquarters of EYN and Kulp Bible College. Brian Newsome, professor of history at Elizabethtown College, will respond. For more information call 717-361-1470 or visit www.etown.edu/youngctr .

• Western Pennsylvania District has received a challenge to continue praying for Nigeria, in a letter from district executive minister Ronald Beachley. “I would challenge congregations to invite members to join other brothers and sisters in a four (4) time daily prayer commitment,” he wrote, in part. “I would suggest taking two or three minutes each designated time to lift up our sisters and brothers facing persecution in Nigeria, pray God’s presence will surround and protect, pray their faith will remain strong, and pray for those who are persecuting them. The four designated times would be 8 a.m.; 12 noon; 4 p.m.; and 8 p.m. I believe if we join together with at least 2,000 individuals joining this effort from our district, our sisters and brothers in Nigeria will feel the power of the Holy Spirit surrounding, encouraging, and strengthening their faith during this time of persecution.”

• The Illinois and Wisconsin District Conference has returned a query asking, “How should districts respond to congregations and pastors who perform same-sex marriages?” The district conference on Nov. 8 returned the query to the originating congregation with thanks and an invitation to continue discussion. That action means the query will not be passed on to Annual Conference. The query was brought by Neighborhood Church of the Brethren in Montgomery, Ill., responding to a decision by Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin, Ill., to perform same-sex weddings. The Highland Avenue church had informed the district about its process of discernment, and also posted that information publicly on its website. A law legalizing same-sex marriage in the State of Illinois took effect on June 1 and a wedding was performed at the Highland Avenue church in early October.

• The Christmas Boutique at Frederick (Md.) Church of the Brethren on Nov. 14, from 5:30-8:30 p.m., will raise funds to benefit Blessings in a Backpack, a local charity that provides food on the weekends for low-income children who otherwise might not be fed. Shoppers and vendors are invited, said the church newsletter. Items available for sale will include jewelry, home décor, accessories, fair trade items, beauty products, books, and more. The evening also will include music, door prizes, free desserts, and hot drinks. Vendor spaces are still available. Contact women@fcob.net.

• Beacon Heights Church of the Brethren in Fort Wayne, Ind., is hosting a presentation by Bernard Alter titled “US and Pakistan: Friends or Foes?” sponsored by the Indiana Center for Middle East Peace. The event is planned for Nov. 13 at 6:30 p.m. Said an announcement: “Bernard Alter served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in India from 1967-1969. His 31-year career with the State Department included posts in Pakistan, India, Thailand, Canada, Hong Kong, and Korea. He speaks Hindi, Urdu, and Thai. He has worked with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and served as Consul General in Islamabad, Seoul, and Chennai. In Washington, he was Bangladesh desk officer in the Near East/South Asia Bureau, and State Department legislative liaison officer, working with Congress on refugees, human rights, and immigration.” Alter and his wife, Pat, have written a book titled “Gather the Fruit One by One: Peace Corps at 50.”

• The November edition of “Brethren Voices” public television program from Portland (Ore.) Peace Church of the Brethren features the Meat Canning Project of Southern Pennsylvania and Mid-Atlantic Districts. “For the past 37 years the two districts have co-sponsored a Meat Canning Project as a way to serve those in need,” said a note from producer Ed Groff. “The goal of this year’s project was the canning of 45,000 pounds of chicken, in four days. The canned chicken was then distributed to local food banks as well as a special outreach program in Honduras. This effort like many of the Church of the Brethren projects requires many dedicated volunteers and some solid financial support.” Brethren Voice interviews coordinator Rick Shaffer and others who assist in the effort of canning 22 tons of chicken. The November program also features Lee Byrd, a resident of Cross Keys Village-The Brethren Home Community, who tells the story of the integration of Maryville College in Tennessee. Find more Brethren Voices programs at www.Youtube.com/Brethrenvoices . To subscribe contact groffprod1@msn.com .

• Stover Memorial Church of the Brethren in Des Moines, Iowa, will host the Iowa Peace Network annual Open House on Nov. 23 at 2:30 p.m. “Please join us for an afternoon of fellowship and refreshments with IPN board member Darrell Mitchell, who has just published his memoirs and will have copies of his book,” said an invitation. Mitchell will speak on "How I Became a Peace Worker." He is a United Methodist minister and advocate for Palestinian and human rights. Network vice chair Patty Wengert of Des Moines Valley Friends will speak about STARPAC and the work of studying the costs of war. Tim Button-Harrison, district executive minister of Northern Plains District, will provide music. Northern Plains District of the Church of the Brethrenis one of the founding groups of the Iowa Peace Network along with the Quakers, Mennonites, and Methodists. The network offices are in the Stover Memorial Church and currently Myrna Frantz and her son Jon Overton, members of Ivester Church of the Brethren, are fulfilling staff responsibilities for the network, reported the district newsletter. 

• Virlina District is preparing for its 2014 District Conference on Nov. 14-15 in Roanoke, Va. Preachers are Jeffrey W. Carter, president of Bethany Theological Seminary, and David A. Steele, moderator of the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference, according to the district newsletter. The theme of the event is “Taste and See that the Lord Is Good.”

• The New Church Development commission of Southern Ohio District is offering a Small Groups Discipleship Workshop on Nov. 22, at the Eaton Church, Barron Street location. “We invite you to come explore how a Small Group Ministry can benefit your congregation,” said an announcement. A fee of $15 per person includes lunch. Pre-register at www.sodcob.org/_forms/view/22411 and find more information at http://media1.razorplanet.com/share/511272-2452/resources/687951_SGDTraining11.22Flyer1.pdf.

• Shepherd's Spring, a camp and outdoor ministry center in Sharpsburg, Md., is offering something unique to mark a once-in-a-lifetime date: 10 special holiday activities beginning at 11 a.m. on 12-13-14 (Dec. 13, 2014). “Join us for 10 hours of fun for all ages,” said an invitation. “Join us for the entire day, or choose your time and activities.” As part of the event, participants may travel to Fahrney Keedy Home and Village, a Church of the Brethren retirement community, to see the Christmas wreath display and carol in the halls. “Your smiles will make the day complete!” said the announcement. Other activities include making your own pizza, building a gingerbread house, creating bird treats and tree ornaments, decorating cookies, a dinner, an evening campfire and s’mores, and a Christmas light tour. Cost is $40 per person for the full day, or $75 for a family all-inclusive package, or participants may pay a separate fee for each activity. Reservations are due by Dec. 6.

• Nov. 22 is the date for the Lighting of the Woods at Camp Eder in Fairfield, Pa. The event takes place from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. and marks the official hanging of lights and decorating of the camp for the upcoming Christmas Tree Festival (Dec. 12-14). Breakfast and lunch will be provided. RSVP to Ljackson@campdeder.org or 717-642-8256.

• The John M. Reed Home, a retirement community in Southeastern District, has received a 5 Star rating from Medicare, according to a note from the district. “Congratulations to the staff, employees, and the board,” said the e-mail note from the district office.

Photo courtesy of Fahrney-Keedy

Fahrney-Keedy Home and Village chaplain Twyla Rowe (left) and board member Ellen Catlett (right) admire some of the entries that have arrived for the Festival of Wreaths on Dec. 13.

• Fahrney-Keedy Home and Village holds a Festival of Wreaths and a Luminaria Remembrance Display on Saturday, Dec. 13, from 3-7 p.m. The Church of the Brethren retirement community is located near Boonsboro, Md. Entertainment through the day will include holiday music, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and refreshments. The wreath event and a bake sale is from 3-5:30 p.m. Silent auction bidding on nearly 50 donated wreaths begins in mid-November and will conclude at the festival, and winners will be announced after 5 p.m. Proceeds from wreaths and the bake sale will support Pastoral Care Ministries, said a release. Potential buyers are encouraged to visit Fahrney-Keedy often during the four weeks the wreaths will be on display, and check the status of their bids, which are accepted in $5 increments. Twyla Rowe, chaplain, is committee chair for the event. Also at 5 p.m. on Dec. 13 is the lighting of the third annual luminaria display by the home’s auxiliary. The display is on walks and curbsides around the campus through 7 p.m. Donations of $5 are received for candles to be lit in honor or memory of friends or family members, and proceeds support the services the auxiliary provides to Fahrney-Keedy. Luminaria order forms are in the News and Announcements section of www.fkhv.org.

• Cross Keys Village-The Brethren Home Community in New Oxford, Pa., holds its Christmas Bazaar on Nov. 29 from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. in the Nicarry Meetinghouse. “What better way to shop and what better place to find the perfect holiday gift?” said an announcement. Nearly two dozen vendors are expected, offering holiday-themed items like Christmas ornaments, Santas and snowmen, as well as jewelry, woodcrafts, ceramics, fiber art, and more. Many of the crafters are Cross Keys Village residents. The Bee Hive Gift Shop also will have items for sale. For more information, call 717-624-5203 or 717-624-5533.

• Robert C. Johansen, a Church of the Brethren member and 2014 Peace Fellow and professor emeritus of political science and peace studies at Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies in Notre Dame, is visiting Elizabethtown (Pa.) College for two events this week. Johansen specializes in issues of international ethics and global governance, the United Nations, and the maintenance of peace and security, and peace and world order studies. The events are sponsored by the Elizabethtown College Alumni Peace Fellowship and Peace and Conflict Studies.

• Elizabethtown (Pa.) College has been awarded a $500,000 Pennsylvania Energy Development Authority grant to install a two-megawatt ground-mounted solar photovoltaic system and create opportunities for students and faculty members to study various aspects of solar energy. “There were 184 PEDA projects submitted to the governor's office, totaling more than $81 million. Only 28 were awarded grants to local governments, schools, and businesses for alternative and clean energy projects, along with projects deploying technologies such as solar energy, hydropower, biomass, and energy efficiency. Elizabethtown is the only one in Lancaster County,” said a release from the college. The solar array is planned for installation on 33.2 acres owned by the college in Mount Joy Township.

• Noted religion author Cathleen Falsani was the keynote speaker for Manchester University’s 2014 Focus on Faith Week convocation on Oct. 30. She is a former religion columnist for the “Chicago Sun-Times” and the “Orange County Register.” Using the theme “The Dude Abides,” a reference to the movie “The Big Lebowski,” Falsani looked at messages of faith and spirituality woven through a variety of films, reported a release. “Films tell stories of who we are,” Falsani said, “and part of that is how we relate to whatever it is that’s bigger than us, the ‘More.’” She said she often finds the most powerful portrayals of that in films that aren’t necessarily labeled as “religious” films, but instead in ones that advance those themes more subtly. The event was sponsored by the Campus Interfaith Board and the Campus Ministry/Religious Life office.

• The John Kline Homestead in Broadway, Va., is offering historical dinners looking back at the anguish of the Kline family after Civil War-era Brethren elder John Kline was killed for his work crossing the battle lines between North and South. “The Shenandoah Valley strains under the fourth year of the Civil War,” said an announcement. “Experience the anguish of John Kline's family since his death last spring. Listen to conversations of actors as they come around the table while you enjoy a home-style meal.” Dinner dates that are still available are Dec. 19 and 20 at 6 p.m. The homestead, which dates to 1822, is at 223 East Springbrook Road, Broadway, Va. Cost is $40 per plate. Groups are welcome, but seating is limited to 32. Contacat 540-421-5267 or proth@eagles.bridgewater.edu for reservations. All proceeds support the John Kline Homestead.

• The Lilly Endowment Clergy Renewal Programs at Christian Theological Seminary provide funds to congregations to support renewal leaves for their pastors. Congregations may apply for grants of up to $50,000 to underwrite a renewal program for a pastor and family, with up to $15,000 of those funds available to the congregation to help cover costs for ministerial supply while the pastor is away. There is no cost to apply. The grants represent the endowment’s continued investment in renewing the health and vitality of American Christian congregations, said a release. For more information go to www.cpx.cts.edu/renewal.

Source: 11/12/2014 Newsline

Credits

Newsline is produced by the news services of the Church of the Brethren. Contact the editor at cobnews@brethren.org. Contributors to this issue of Newsline include Jeffrey S. Boshart, Deborah Brehm, Frank Buhrman, Jane Collins, Katie Furrow, Ed Groff, Bryan Hanger, Elizabeth Harvey, Glen Sargent, Callie Smith, Beth Sollenberger, David Sollenberger, Walt Wiltschek, Jay Wittmeyer, and editor Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of News Services for the Church of the Brethren.

Newsline: November 4, 2014

NEWS

• ‘We need urgent help from the international community’ writes EYN president, Church of the Brethren calls for international attention to crisis in Nigeria
• New Church Development Advisory Committee reorganizes
• Polo Growing Project reaches market

UPCOMING EVENTS

• Youth and young adult ministries director leads evening webinar on ‘Grieving’
• International scholar to speak at Bethany Seminary
• Musa Mambula of EYN to speak at Chiques Church of the Brethren about Nigeria persecution

BRETHREN BITS

• Bethany seeks faculty in theological studies, Workcamp Ministry seeks 2016 coordinators, Manchester inaugurates new president, how to get your church online, Anabaptist Response to WWI, and much more.

Quote of the week

“We have received very, very few nominations and there are a lot of spaces to fill on the ballot!”

-- Chris Douglas, director of the Conference Office, in a reminder to Brethren that nominations are due by Dec. 1 for all of the open offices that will be elected at next summer’s Annual Conference. In related news, the logo for the 2015 Annual Conference on the theme “Abide in My Love... and Bear Fruit” (John 15:9-17) has been released, and appears above. The logo was designed by Debbie Noffsinger. Also new online at www.brethren.org/ac is a short video in which Annual Conference moderator David Steele invites Brethren to the 2015 event next summer. The video was filmed by Church of the Brethren videographer Dave Sollenberger. The 2015 Annual Conference takes place on July 11-15 in Tampa, Fla.

‘We need urgent help from the international community’ writes EYN president, Church of the Brethren calls for international attention to crisis in Nigeria

The world has followed the tragic abduction of more than 200 schoolgirls from Chibok, Nigeria. Yet that tragedy is just one incident in an increasingly bloody attempt by Boko Haram insurgents to make northeast Nigeria into an Islamic caliphate.

Caught in the middle is Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN, the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria), the largest Christian denomination in the area of northeast Nigeria where Boko Haram is taking territory. This year EYN has seen many of its churches and congregations destroyed, as thousands of church members have been killed and pastors and their families have been among the hundreds more abducted since the Chibok schoolgirls were taken. Most of the schoolgirls were from EYN. Estimates are that more than 90,000 EYN church members have been displaced by the fighting this year.

Now the situation of EYN is dire as its headquarters property and Kulp Bible College have been taken by Boko Haram. The attack on the headquarters on Oct. 29 occurred as Boko Haram fighters were on their way to attack and take the nearby city of Mubi, near the Cameroon border.

People living at the EYN headquarters fled for their lives, including families of denominational staff and Bible college students. It is believed most of those at the EYN headquarters escaped alive, but many people in Mubi and surrounding villages were killed and others are now trapped in the control of Boko Haram.

The EYN staff is now displaced, and the church leadership is working to regroup. They are faced with the prospect of having to rebuild church offices and relocate staff and their families, at the same time the church continues to aid thousands of members who have been displaced. In addition, hundreds of pastors who were serving churches in the conflict zone also are displaced without jobs or means to provide for families. These are crucial issues for the church’s survival.

EYN president Samuel Dante Dali is calling for urgent help from the international community for the people affected by violence in northeast Nigeria. In a letter he sent to the Church of the Brethren in the US this weekend, he also called for the Nigerian government to give serious attention to the suffering of the people.

“We need urgent help from the international community if the global community can have compassion on us,” he wrote in the e-mail letter. “The future of Nigeria is getting darker and darker day by day but, Nigerian political leadership do not seem to take the suffering of the people very seriously. The government of Nigeria with all its security seems very weak and helpless in handling the crisis.” (See the full text of his letter below.)

“Our hearts are broken about what’s happening in Nigeria,” said Stanley J. Noffsinger, general secretary of the Church of the Brethren. “However, we’re not so overwhelmed by this horror that we have become inactive. We are making a bold response. The board of the Church of the Brethren has committed up to $1.5 million to a new relief effort in Nigeria, working in cooperation with EYN.”

The American church also is beginning a more concerted advocacy effort to bring international attention to the crisis in northeast Nigeria. The effort encourages nonviolent solutions, such as an international effort to cut off Boko Haram’s weaponry and funding, and humanitarian aid for the hundreds of thousands of Nigerians who are internally displaced or are refugees in Cameroon and Niger. The Church of the Brethren calls for international pressure on the Nigerian government to better serve its people--those who have lost loved ones in the conflict, orphans, women who have been brutalized, men who have lost jobs and the means to support their families, those living in camps or sheltering with extended family elsewhere without the means for basic necessities of food, shelter, and medical care.

The relief work that the Church of the Brethren is helping to carry out with EYN already has begun, including providing food and supplies to the displaced, and building temporary shelters at “care centers” in safer locations in central Nigeria, among other priorities that now include the relocation of the EYN offices and staff.

In 1923, Church of the Brethren members from the United States began the mission effort that  led to the emergence of EYN as an indigenous African Christian church that--up until recent destruction wrought by the insurgency--was estimated to have an attendance of close to 1 million in Nigeria, and has mission efforts in neighboring countries.

For more information about Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria and the Church of the Brethren mission in Nigeria, go to www.brethren.org/nigeria.

Letter from The Rev. Dr. Samuel Dante Dali
President, Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria

Dear brothers and sisters in the Lord, let me on behalf of the entire membership of EYN Church of the Brethren in Nigeria thank you for your concern and prayers. It is very comforting to us to hear that many brothers and sisters in the body of Christ are praying with us.

Indeed, the suffering of the communities of the northeast Nigeria where EYN is predominant is getting unbearable with the recent attack on Michika, Uba town, EYN headquarters, and Mubi town. Families have been separated as they run in different directions. Some are yet to know where their wife or children are. Others are crowded into Yola town, the capital city of the state.

Mostly these people are sleeping in open air with a little or nothing to eat. However, with the generous and compassionate help from the Church of the Brethren in the United States we have been able to assist many of the families and pastors through the leadership of the District Church Councils in Yola. While we continue trying to distribute the materials needed our Relief Committee are now refuges themselves all scattered in different directions.

Now, all the villages and towns from Bama, Gwoza, Madagali, Gulak, Michika, Baza, Uba, EYN headquarters, and Mubi town are under the control of the BH [Boko Haram]. Most of the able communities in these areas are living as refugees scattered in different parts of northern Nigeria.

Also, it is very difficult to know how many have been killed, kidnapped, and no one knows what is happening with our properties at headquarters. We have cried emotionally and to God for help but the situation is still helpless.

The future of Nigeria is getting darker and darker day by day but, Nigerian political leadership do not seem to take the suffering of the people very seriously. The government of Nigeria with all its security seems very weak and helpless in handling the crisis.

I think we need urgent help from the international community if the global community can have compassion on us.

I am writing this mail from Jos where I am at present trying to prepare temporary offices where the [EYN] leadership can provide skeletal service. All the pastors and the District Secretaries are now asking me to find a place where they can relocate their families and I do not know how to handle this serous request.

So, please, continue to pray for the leadership of EYN, members, and the entire communities of northeastern Nigeria. Thank you so much again.

The Rev. Dr. Samuel D. Dali

Source: 11/04/2014 Newsline

New Church Development Advisory Committee reorganizes

The New Church Development Advisory Committee helps organize and lead the New Church Planting conferences of the Church of the Brethren, among other responsibilities. Shown here: A painting by Dave Weiss illustrates the theme for church planting and new church development.

By Jonathan Shively

The National New Church Development Advisory Committee of the Church of the Brethren recently went through reorganization as it continues to give input and direction to denominational support for church planting.

David K. Shumate, district executive minister of Virlina District, concluded 16 years as a member of this committee. During his tenure he compiled a manual for new church development, helped plan nine New Church Development events (attending eight), and taught two courses for Training in Ministry (TRIM) in conjunction with conferences. His personal leadership for church planting in Virlina District has given him valuable experience and perspective, which he actively shared in his work with the national committee.

David Shumate has been a steady presence in the church planting movement. He is effective and wise. A key piece of advice that he offered early on was to do fewer things well over a sustained period of time, counsel that we have followed with appreciation.

Two new members have been appointed to serve on the committee. Kendal Elmore, district executive minister for West Marva District, joins the committee as a liaison to the Council of District Executives. He and West Marva District recently supported the emergence of Hanging Rock Church of the Brethren, recognized as a fellowship at the 2014 Annual Conference. Also appointed to the committee is Doug Veal, pastor of Daleville (Va.) Church of the Brethren and chair of the Virlina District New Church Development Committee, which oversees a number of new church initiatives.

Continuing members of the committee include Don Mitchell of Atlantic Northeast District; Deb Oskin of Southern Ohio District; Ray Hileman of Atlantic Southeast District; Dava Hensley of Virlina District; Steve Gregory of Pacific Northwest District; and chair Jonathan Shively of Congregational Life Ministries.

-- Jonathan Shively is executive director of Congregational Life Ministries for the Church of the Brethren.

Source: 11/04/2014 Newsline

Polo Growing Project reaches market

By Howard Royer 

The 2014 Polo (Ill.) Growing Project has completed harvest of 40 acres of soybeans with a yield averaging 60 bushels per acre, reports Jim Schmidt, grower and project coordinator. With a portion of the grain contracted for in advance, the sale averaged roughly $11 a bushel, well above the current market price of $8.85 for out-of-the-field transactions. The Polo Growing Project is a joint project of the Dixon, Highland Avenue, and Polo Church of the Brethren congregations in Illinois, and Tinley Park Presbyterian Church.

Proceeds of $26,800, to be augmented as in the past by a substantial gift from an anonymous donor, will be invested in the Foods Resource Bank to help groups of smallholder farmers in impoverished countries develop sustainable agriculture. Since 2005, the Polo Growing Project has raised $295,000 for FRB-supported agricultural work overseas.

Offsetting the cost of inputs for the bean crop were donations from the Dixon, Highland Avenue, and Polo congregations and Tinley Park church, each contributing $1,700. Agribusinesses in the Polo area also lent support to the effort.

Now in its 15th year, the Foods Resource Bank has reached one million people through 125 agricultural programs. Polo is in its 10th year of partnership with FRB. Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren donors have supported the project for the past six years.

-- Howard Royer served for many years on the Church of the Brethren denominational staff, and is a former manager of the Global Food Crisis Fund.

Source: 11/04/2014 Newsline

Youth and young adult ministries director leads evening webinar on ‘Grieving’

The first webinar in a series on Christian practices for teens, offered for adult leaders of youth, will be on the topic “Grieving” led by Becky Ullom Naugle, director of the Church of the Brethren Youth and Young Adult Ministry. The webinar is this evening, Nov. 4, at 8 p.m. (eastern time).

This is one in a series of webinars offered jointly by staff of the Church of the Brethren, Bethany Theological Seminary, and On Earth Peace. These staff are teaming up to provide informational and educational webinars geared to pastors, parents, and anyone who works with youth, primarily within the Church of the Brethren.

This series takes the form of a book study of “Way to Live: Christian Practices for Teens” edited by Dorothy C. Bass and Don C. Richter, and will offer reflections on a few selected chapters of the book. While having a copy of the book is helpful, it is not required. The book may be purchased through Brethren Press at www.brethrenpress.com or by calling 800-441-3712.

Both a telephone and a computer are required to join the webinar: dial in by telephoning 877-204-3718 and enter the access code 8946766; then log in online at https://cc.callinfo.com/r/1huu1fnieqfak&eom.

The next webinars in the series:

• Jan. 6, 2015, at 8 p.m. (eastern) on the topic “Work and Choices” led by Bekah Houff of the Bethany Seminary staff
• March 3, 2015, 8 p.m. (eastern) on the topic “Life and Time” led by Emily Tyler of the Church of the Brethren Workcamp Ministry
• May 5, 2015, 8 p.m. (eastern) on the topic “Forgiveness and Justice” led by Marie Benner-Rhoades of the On Earth Peace staff

Ordained ministers may earn .1 continuing education credit for participating in the real-time event. To request continuing education credit contact Houff at houffre@bethanyseminary.edu prior to the webinar.

Source: 11/04/2014 Newsline

International scholar to speak at Bethany Seminary

By Jenny Williams
 
Hugh Williamson, an internationally recognized and respected scholar in Hebrew Bible, will present a lecture at Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Ind., on Thursday, Nov. 20, titled “Has Old Testament Messianic Prophecy Passed Its Sell-By Date?”

Hugh Williamson

The lecture will take place 10-11:30 a.m. (eastern) in Nicarry Chapel and will include time for questions. Laypersons and scholars alike who are interested in how we read the Bible can expect to be enlightened with both academic information and practical application. The lecture will be webcast at www.bethanyseminary.edu/webcasts. Those who attend or watch the live webcast can earn 0.1 continuing education credit.

Williamson is Regius Professor of Hebrew at the University of Oxford, having begun his tenure there in 1992. He has written and taught extensively, especially in Isaiah, Chronicles, Ezra-Nehemiah, the Persian period, and archaeology. He earned his doctorate from the University of Cambridge.

“It is a great joy and opportunity to have Hugh Williamson speak to us at Bethany Seminary,” said Steven Schweitzer, academic dean at Bethany. “I have known him for many years as a colleague in the areas of Chronicles-Ezra-Nehemiah and Persian period studies. A witty, engaging speaker, he cares deeply about scripture and about how both scholars and the church use the Bible. Faculty, students, pastors, and laypersons will all be enriched by his insights into the complexity of the topic of Old Testament messianic prophecy.”

Williams will present lectures at the University of Notre Dame prior to arriving at Bethany Seminary, then continue on to speak at the Society of Biblical Literature annual meeting in San Diego, Calif.

Williamson’s publications include scores of articles and essays and more than 20 books, including “He Has Shown You What Is Good: Old Testament Justice” (Lutterworth, 2012); “Interpreting Isaiah: Issues and Approaches” (IVP, 2009); “A Critical and Exegetical Commentary on Isaiah 1-27" (T&T Clark, 2006); “Variations on a Theme: King, Messiah, and Servant in the Book of Isaiah” (Paternoster Press, 1998); “Ezra-Nehemiah” in the Word Biblical Commentary (Word, 1985, winner of the Biblical Archaeology Society Award for Best Old Testament Commentary that year); and “Israel in the Books of Chronicles” (Cambridge, 1977).

-- Jenny Williams is director of Communications and Alumni/ae Relations at Bethany Theological Seminary.

Source: 11/04/2014 Newsline

Musa Mambula of EYN to speak at Chiques Church of the Brethren about Nigeria persecution

Musa Mambula, National Spiritual Advisor to Ekklesiyar Yan'uwa a Nigeria (EYN, the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria)

By Don Fitzkee

Chiques Church of the Brethren in Manheim, Pa., will host a presentation by Nigerian Brethren leader Musa Mambula on Sunday, Nov. 9, at 7 p.m. Mambula is a writer, educator, and current National Spiritual Advisor for Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN, the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria). He will speak about the persecution of Christians by Boko Haram terrorists in northern Nigeria and the church’s response. The evening will conclude with a time of prayer.

Last April more than 200 girls--many of them EYN members--were kidnapped from a school in Chibok, which had been started by the Brethren in the 1940s. As many as 96,000 EYN members have been reported displaced, thousands killed, and more than half of the church’s districts have been closed. As recently as Oct. 29, the EYN church headquarters property in Kwarhi was overtaken by Boko Haram.

The Mission and Ministry Board of the Church of the Brethren in the United States recently allocated up to $1.5 million to respond to the crisis. The money will be used for shelter for displaced families and emergency food rations, among other things. (For more information about the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria, persecution by Boko Haram, and the US church’s response, visit www.brethren.org/partners/nigeria/news.html.)

Chiques Church of the Brethren is located at 4045 Sunnyside Rd., Manheim. For more information about the program at Chiques, contact Carolyn Fitzkee at 717-664-2252.

-- Don Fitzkee is chair elect of the Church of the Brethren Mission and Ministry Board and director of Development for COBYS Family Services in Leola, Pa.

Source: 11/04/2014 Newsline

Brethren bits

• Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Ind., announces a full-time, tenure track, faculty position in theological studies, to begin July 1, 2015. Rank: open. PhD preferred; ABD considered. The appointee will develop and teach the equivalent of an average of five graduate courses (at least one online) annually and offer one course for the Brethren Academy biennially. Other duties include student advising, supervising MA theses in theological studies, participating in student recruitment and the life of the community. Commitment to the values and theological emphases within the Church of the Brethren is essential. Women, minorities, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. The application deadline is Dec. 1. Interviews begin in early 2015. Send an application letter, a CV, and names and contact information for three references to Theological Studies Search, Attn: Dean’s Office, Bethany Theological Seminary, 615 National Road West, Richmond, IN 47374; deansoffice@bethanyseminary.edu .

• The Church of the Brethren Workcamp Ministry seeks applicants for the 2016 workcamp coordinator position. “Do you want to help plan and guide the 2016 workcamp season? Apply to be an assistant workcamp coordinator!” said an invitation. Applications are due by Jan. 9, 2015. The position begins in August 2015 and continues through the summer of 2016. The position is both an administrative and a practical ministry. The first three-quarters of the year is spent preparing for youth and young adult summer workcamps, working at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill. This work includes choosing an annual theme, preparing promotional materials, writing and designing a devotional book and leaders resources, setting up financial spreadsheets, setting up and maintaining a registration database, sending letters to participants and leaders, making workcamp site visits, collecting forms and paperwork, and other administrative work. During the summer, assistant coordinators travel from location to location, serving as coordinators of workcamps for youth and young adults, responsible for the overall administration of a workcamp including housing, transportation, food, work, recreation, and often responsible for planning and leading devotional, educational, and group activities. This position is a Brethren Volunteer Service placement and includes serving as a BVS volunteer and being a member of the BVS Community House in Elgin. Required skills and gifts include gifts for and experience in youth ministry, passion for Christian service, an understanding of mutual ministry, spiritual and emotional maturity, organizational and office skills, physical stamina and the ability to travel well, computer skills including experience with Microsoft Office Word, Excel, Access, and Publisher. Previous workcamp experience, as a leader or participant, is preferred. For more information, an application form, and specific instructions about how to submit applications, go to www.brethren.org/workcamps. For questions contact Emily Tyler at the Church of the Brethren Workcamp Office, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120; etyler@brethren.org ; 800-323-8039 ext. 396.

Erma Ecker Frock was honored by Westminster (Md.) Church of the Brethren on Sunday, Oct. 12, as a long-time devoted member of the church. She had attended the Westminster church for more than 87 years, since she was 8 years old. “This is record attendance for the Westminster church and possibly for attendance at just one church for the county,” said a report written by a the church’s publicity committee and submitted to the local newspaper. As part of a celebration of her life, people in the congregation put on a cake-and-ice cream reception followed by a film of an interview with her by Mark Woodworth. “The guiding principles of Mrs. Frock’s life have been to be heavily involved in church work, live a ‘basic, simple life’ and to ‘live simply so others may simply live,’” the report said. “When asked what it means to her to be Brethren, she responded, ‘Give, give, give. There are always people who need help.’ She indicated that prayer and the 23rd Psalm have helped her through the difficult times in her life. Two of those challenging times were losing her husband Orville to a heart attack when he was in his fifties and, as a result, needing to find employment herself at age 52 to support her family.” In November she will turn 95 and has moved to Pennsylvania to live with her daughter. “I love my church and am sad to have to leave it,” she said.

• Manchester University in North Manchester, Ind., will inaugurate its 15th president in the school's 125-year history on Friday. Dave McFadden most recently served as the school's executive vice president. The public is invited to his Inaugural Ceremony at 1:30 p.m. at the North Manchester campus, followed by a reception at the Jo Young Switzer Center. Find an article from "Inside Indiana Business" spotlighting the new president of Manchester University at www.insideindianabusiness.com/ newsitem.asp?ID=67858.

• A blog post about how to get your church online is now available at http://blog.brethren.org/2014/three-easy-ways-to-get-your-church-online. The post by Church of the Brethren website producer Jan Fischer Bachman is titled “Three Easy Ways to Get Your Church Online” and includes advice on creating a website, setting up a Facebook page, and claiming a Google listing.

• Crest Manor Church of the Brethren pastor Bradley Bohrer is presenting “Insights in History--Transformed by the War: The Anabaptist Response to World War I” on Wednesday, Nov. 5, at 1:30-3:30 p.m. at the Center for History in South Bend, Ind. Bohrer will discuss the effect of World War I on groups such as the Brethren, Mennonites, and Quakers, and their response to the war. A tour of the exhibit World War I: The War to End All Wars will be offered. Admission is $3 or $1 for members. Reservations are required by today, Nov. 3; contact the center at 574-235-9664.

• Hagerstown (Md.) Church of the Brethren is hosting a Fall Concert by the Hagerstown Choral Arts on Sunday, Nov. 16, at 4 p.m. Hagerstown Choral Arts is directed by Greg Shook. The concert is open to the public, and free-will gifts will be accepted.

• “Come early to pray!” said an invitation to the Shenandoah District Conference that starts on Friday, Nov. 7, on the theme “The Return of the Word.” An evening worship service hosted by Bridgewater (Va.) Church of the Brethren at 6:45 p.m. Friday officially begins the conference, but members of the district are encouraged to come early and join a time of prayer beginning at 6 p.m., in the Bridgewater church's chapel. The prayer session will be led by Dwight Roetto, a Christian Growth Institute graduate recently licensed to the ministry at Blue Ridge Chapel Church of the Brethren.

• There will be three Prayer Stations focused on Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN, the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria) at the Pacific Southwest District Conference. The event takes place Nov. 7-9 hosted by Hillcrest, a Church of the Brethren retirement community in La Verne, Calif. Participants will be able to go to the prayer stations at any time during the conference to sense, pray for, and be a part of the Spirit of God moving in meaningful ways for brothers and sisters in Nigeria, said the district newsletter. Prayer Station 1 will feature a large, red pillar candle that will be lit during Friday evening worship and will stay lit as much as possible during the business sessions and each worship service. Prayer Station 2 will have a large piece of paper for participants to write hopes and prayers for the Nigerian church, with the option to also write cards with expressions of love, hope, and peace to be sent to Nigerian church leaders. At Prayer Station 3 those who would like to participate in a financial offering as an active prayer may place gifts in a wrapped box. The newsletter reported that the offerings of money will go to the Nigerian Compassion Fund.

• Special recognitions honored ministerial milestones as well as others in ministry at the 2014 Middle Pennsylvania District Conference, according to the district newsletter. The event was held at Camp Blue Diamond and combined with the Annual Heritage Fair, and also was hosted in part by the University Baptist and Brethren Church in State College, Pa. The Juniata College-Church College Relations Recognition honored Henry Thurston-Griswold. Laurie Stiles was recognized for completion of the Training in Ministry Certificate. Ministerial milestones celebrated the following years of service: Harry Spaeth, 60 years; Christy Dowdy, 25 years; Linda Banaszak, Patricia Muthler, Paul Snyder, Ronald Stacey, and Rebecca Zeek, each for 10 years in ministry.

• Mid-Atlantic District is beginning a “replant” effort at Good Shepherd in Silver Spring. “The Good Shepherd congregation has declined--down to six to eight persons in worship attendance--to the point where it will no longer be able to sustain itself as a congregation,” said an article by district executive minister Gene Hagenberger in the district newsletter. “We see Silver Spring and the neighborhoods around the current Good Shepherd church as an area that needs what we have to share as those who know the love and grace of Jesus Christ and as members of the Church of the Brethren.” The district’s Church Extension and Evangelism Ministry Team is heading up the work. The district is requesting prayers and donations for the replant effort.

• The John Kline Homestead in Broadway, Va., is offering a series of historical dinners in November and December. The homestead is the family home of Civil War-era Brethren elder and martyr for peace John Kline. “The Shenandoah Valley strains under the fourth year of the Civil War,” said an announcement. “Experience the anguish of John Kline's family since his death last spring. Listen to conversations of actors as they come around the table while you enjoy a home-style meal.” Dinner dates are Nov. 21 and 22 and Dec. 19 and 20 at 6 p.m. The homestead, which dates to 1822, is at 223 East Springbrook Road, Broadway, Va. Cost is $40 per plate. Groups are welcome, but seating is limited to 32. Contacat 540-421-5267 or proth@eagles.bridgewater.edu for reservations. All proceeds support the John Kline Homestead.

• A $100,000 grant has been awarded to Elizabethtown (Pa.) College by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to help ensure the value of a humanities education in an increasingly technology-driven world. “The grant supports innovative student-faculty engagement in the humanities,” said a release from the college, “including undergraduate research, internships, and interdisciplinary study.” There are five Mellon grants made available each year for liberal arts colleges; Elizabethtown was awarded the Higher Education and Scholarship in the Humanities grant, the release said. The two-year program designed to strengthen the humanities through the creation of a Humanities Challenge and a Cultivating Humanities programs, will enable faculty to create cocurricular programming that weaves the humanities into student activities and, in doing so, increases the number of students majoring in the humanities and raises the visibility of humanities across campus.

• Christian Peacemaker Teams in Iraqi Kurdistan has published an interview with a survivor of an Islamic State massacre. The release published by CPTnet on Nov. 1 is titled “Survivor of ISIS massacre tells story to Christian Peacemaker Teams” and relates the story of an Ezidi (Yazidi) man whose village of Kocho was invaded by the extremist group on Oct. 8. The man escaped after being wounded when many other men in the village were massacred. The report, which contains disturbing violent content, is available in full at  www.cpt.org/cptnet/2014/11/01/iraqi-kurdistan-survivor-isis-massacre-tells-story-christian-peacemaker-teams.

Source: 11/04/2014 Newsline

Credits

Newsline is produced by the news services of the Church of the Brethren. Contact the editor at cobnews@brethren.org. Contributors to this issue of Newsline include Bradley Bohrer, Samuel Dante Dali, Chris Douglas, Nevin Dulabaum, Don Fitzkee, Gene Hagenberger, Elizabeth Harvey, Glenn McCrickard, Becky Ullom Naugle, Howard Royer, Jonathan Shively, Emily Tyler, Jenny Williams, and editor Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of News Services for the Church of the Brethren.

Newsline: October 28-29, 2014

NEWS

• Nigerian Brethren headquarters property overtaken by insurgents

UPCOMING EVENTS

• Brethren workcamps schedule for 2015 is released
• Presenters are announced for NOAC 2015
• Webinar will explore relationship between farm workers and gardens

PERSONNEL

• Russell Matteson named district executive for Pacific Southwest District

BRETHREN BITS

• Remembering Wilbur Mullen, personnel, job openings, letter on Iran, Bethany travel seminar to Germany, Mark Yaconelli event at New Carlisle, 'tis the season for holiday fairs and bazaars, the last of the 2014 district conferences, and more.

Nigerian Brethren headquarters property overtaken by insurgents

General secretary Stan Noffsinger (at right) and Roy Winter of Brethren Disaster Ministries (at left) meet for prayer with Nigerian church leader Musa Mambula and his wife Sarah, after news is received that Nigerian Brethren headquarters have been overtaken by the Boko Haram insurgents in the early morning hours of Oct. 29. The Mambulas have been visiting their daughter in Pennsylvania. The US church leaders prayed with the couple and received an update from the Mambulas on the situation of EYN, Ekklesiyar Yan'ua a Nigeria, the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria.

“The Lord is my shepherd...even when I walk through the darkest valley” (Psalm 23:4a, CEB).

The Nigeria Brethren church headquarters property has been overtaken by Boko Haram extremist insurgents. The news was shared in the early hours of this morning in an e-mail from the staff liaison of Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN, the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria), who wrote:

“JUST RECEIVED A CALL FROM EYN PRESIDENT

WITH TEARS IN MY EYES I WANT TO INFORM YOU THAT BH HAS TAKEN OVER EYN HEADQUARTERS KWARHI.  THANKS FOR YOUR PRAYERS ALWAYS

THANKS FOR YOUR PRAYERS ALWAYS”

Since then, Church of the Brethren staff have been in contact with EYN leaders by telephone and e-mail, and additional information has been received. Many aspects of the situation remain unclear. However here is what is known at this time:

The EYN headquarters property and Kulp Bible College, which are located in the village of Kwarhi, were attacked and taken by the insurgents. Boko Haram is in control of Kwarhi, and also reportedly has taken the nearby city of Mubi, and another nearby town of Maraba.

At the time of the attack on Kwarhi and the EYN headquarters, leading staff including EYN president Samuel Dali were holding meetings in a community several kilometers away, and were safe. However their families, many of whom had returned to their homes on the headquarters property in recent weeks, were forced to flee for their lives.

In the attack on the EYN headquarters, some of the guards for the compound were killed, and the conference hall was hit by a rocket launcher. During the attack on Kwarhi, many soldiers in the contingent that was stationed there also were killed.


There is uncertainty about the whereabouts of some Kulp Bible College students and family members, and serious concern for the people who may be trapped in Mubi, along with many of the inhabitants of surrounding villages.

Among those whose whereabouts are causing concern are people from the International Rescue Committee, a partner organization to the nonprofit relief group CCEPI, which is headed up by Rebecca Dali who represented EYN at this summer’s Annual Conference.

Some weeks ago, at a time when Boko Haram attacks were closing in on Kwarhi, KBC was closed and students and families, as well as EYN staff families, were evacuated and left the compound. However, recently families had been returning, and in recent days there even were reports that KBC was reopening.

The EYN staff and their families are taking refuge in a community several kilometers away from the Mubi area, where they are assessing immediate needs and still waiting to hear from some members of the community. However, the EYN leadership does not feel the situation at that location is safe either, and understands it to be very vulnerable to attack.

EYN president Samuel Dali said that  “the situation is very bad” in a telephone conversation with Jay Wittmeyer, executive director of Global Mission and Service, and requested prayer.

In addition to prayer for those who have not yet been heard from, those who are trapped in Boko Haram controlled areas, those who have lost loved ones, and those who have been forced to flee their homes, prayer is requested for God’s guidance for EYN to decide where to relocate its headquarters and its staff and their families.

The Global Mission office has wired $100,000 which has been collected for the EYN Compassion Fund to assist EYN to meet the immediate needs at this time.

It is hoped that more information will be available from EYN later in the week.

For online resources and background information about EYN and the Church of the Brethren mission in Nigeria, go to www.brethren.org/nigeria.

Source: 10/29/2014 Newsline

Brethren workcamps schedule for 2015 is released

The Church of the Brethren Workcamp Office has released the workcamp schedule for 2015, which is now available at www.brethren.org/workcamps. The theme for the year, “Side by Side: Imitating Christ’s Humility” is inspired by Philippians 2:1-8. A brochure will be mailed soon to congregations. For questions, contact the Workcamp Office at cobworkcamps@brethren.org.

2015 workcamp schedule

Find the full workcamp schedule with links to descriptions of each workcamp and a picture key identifying the different types of work at each site, at www.brethren.org/workcamps/schedule . The key provides a rough guide to the five different types of work: emphasis on relational service, gardening and eco-service, construction and painting etc., food bank or soup kitchen, thrift store or packaging clothes.

Junior high workcamps for those who have completed 6th-8th grade:

• June 21-25 at the John Kline Homestead in Broadway, Va., $275
• June 22-26 at Camp Pine Lake in Iowa, $275
• July 1-5 hosted by Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin, Ill., $275
• July 22-26 hosted by Prince of Peace Church of the Brethren in South Bend, Ind., $275
• July 29-Aug 2 partnering with On Earth Peace and the Brethren Housing Association in Harrisburg, Pa., $275
• Aug 5-9 hosted by Brooklyn (N.Y.) First Church of the Brethren, $275
• Aug 5-9 hosted by First Church of the Brethren in Roanoke, Va., $275

Senior high workcamps for those having completed 9th grade through age 19:

• June 7-14 at Camp Wilbur Stover in Idaho, $325
• June 8-13 at Koinonia Farm in Americus, Ga., $395
• June 14-20 at a project site of Brethren Disaster Ministries, to be determined, $285
• June 14-20 in New Orleans, La., $425
• June 21-27 at Pine Ridge Reservation in Kyle, S.D., $455
• June 28-July 4 at the Family Abuse Center in Waco, Texas, $335
• July 5-11 at ECHO in N. Fort Myers, Fla., $375
• July 5-11 at Innisfree in Crozet, Va., $325
• July 19-25 partnering with Baltimore (Md.) County Christian Workcamp, $325
• July 20-26 hosted by Camp Carmel working with Crossnore School in Crossnore, N.C., $325
• July 20-26 hosted by York Center Church of the Brethren in Lombard, Ill., $325
• July 27-Aug 2 hosted by Olympic View Church of the Brethren in Seattle, Wash., $325
• July 27-Aug 2 at the Brethren Nutrition Program in Washington, D.C., $325
• Aug 9-15 co-sponsored by the Brethren Revival Fellowship (BRF) at New Horizons Ministries in Colorado, $335
• Aug 9-15 hosted by Bittersweet Ministries in Los Angeles, Calif., $425

Intergenerational workcamps for youth and adults who have completed 6th grade and older:

• June 14-20 at Camp Mardela on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, $325
• June 20-27 co-sponsored by the Brethren Revival Fellowship (BRF) in Lewiston, Maine, $325

Young adult workcamps for those ages 18-35:

• May 29-June 7 in the Dominican Republic, $700
• June 29-July 2 We Are Able Assistants at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., $375

We Are Able:

• June 29-July 2 We Are Able, a workcamp for youth and young adults with intellectual disabilities, ages 16-23, in New Windsor, Md., $375

Registration will open Jan. 8, 2015, at www.brethren.org/workcamps. Registrations will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis starting at 7 p.m. (central time) on Jan. 8. A $150 non-refundable deposit will be due seven days after receipt of registration confirmation, with the full balance of the registration fee due by April 1, 2015. For more information go to www.brethren.org/workcamps.

Source: 10/28/2014 Newsline

Presenters are announced for NOAC 2015

The major presenters, preachers, and performers at the 2015 National Older Adult Conference (NOAC) have been announced. The event on the theme “then Jesus told them a story...” (Matthew 13:34-35, CEV) is planned for Sept. 7-11 at Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center in western North Carolina.

NOAC is a Spirit-filled gathering of adults who love learning and discerning together, exploring God’s call for their lives and living out that call by sharing their energy, insight, and legacy with their families, communities, and the world. NOAC is sponsored by the Older Adult Ministry of Congregational Life Ministries. Kim Ebersole serves as NOAC coordinator and director of Family Life and Older Adult Ministries. Serving as NOAC assistant for 2015 is Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) worker Laura Whitman of Palmyra, Pa.

Preaching for NOAC 2015 will be

• Robert Neff, associate for Resource Development at the Village at Morrisons Cove, a Church of the Brethren retirement community in Pennsylvania, president emeritus at Juniata College, and a former general secretary of the Church of the Brethren

• Chris Smith, a minister in the Covenant Baptist Church in Wickliffe, Ohio, and author of “Beyond the Stained Glass Ceiling: Equipping and Encouraging Female Pastors,” who was a popular speaker at the Intercultural Ministries Luncheon at this year’s Annual Conference

• LaDonna Sanders Nkosi, “global pastor” and public poet, and pastor of First Church of the Brethren in Chicago, Ill.

Keynote presenters are

• Ken Medema, a Christian musician who for four decades has inspired people through storytelling and music, with a unique ability to capture the spirit of the moment in word and song. Though blind from birth, he sees and hears with heart and mind.

• Brian McLaren, a well known author, speaker, activist, and public theologian. A former college English teacher and pastor, he is an ecumenical global networker among innovative Christian leaders.

• Deanna Brown, founder and facilitator of Cultural Connections, an international pilgrimage connecting women from the USA with women in India (and more recently in Turkey). 

Morning Bible studies will be led by Robert Bowman, a Church of the Brethren pastor and former missionary, and retired associate professor of Biblical Studies at Manchester University.

Musical and dramatic performances will be given by Terra Voce, a cello and flute duo, and comedian Bob Stromberg.

For more information about NOAC 2015, and an original poem inspired by the theme titled “then Jesus” by NOAC planning team member Jim Kinsey, go to www.brethren.org/NOAC . More information will be added to this website as planning progresses. Registration materials will be available in Spring 2015.

Source: 10/28/2014 Newsline

Webinar will explore relationship between farm workers and gardens

A webinar on the topic “For We Are Co-Workers in God’s Service” is planned for Tuesday, Nov. 18, at 7 p.m. (eastern time) to explore the relationship between farm workers and gardens.

Where do our fruits and vegetables come from? Who is responsible for seeing that these foods are harvested for us to buy and eat? What are the lives of these farm workers like? And how does our faith connect us to our brothers and sisters who do this work?

Through the Going to the Garden grant initiative of the Office of Public Witness and Global Food Crisis Fund, this webinar will focus on issues surrounding the national farm workers movement to create better work and living standards. The webinar will hear from individuals deeply involved with the National Farm Worker Ministry (NFWM) and the NFWM's Youth and Young Adult network in order to understand what these two groups are doing to support farm workers. It also will discuss how individuals can show support and solidarity in their own communities through initiatives like Going to the Garden.

Presenters:

Lindsay Andreolli-Comstock

Lindsay Andreolli-Comstock, an ordained Baptist minister and human-trafficking specialist, serves as executive director of the National Farm Worker Ministry. She served for four years as a human-trafficking specialist in Southeast Asia. She is a former member of the Board of Directors of the Alliance of Baptists and a doctoral candidate at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary.

Nico Gumbs

Nico Gumbs is the Florida state coordinator of the National Farm Worker Ministry’s youth-led program, YAYA. He has been in the agriculture sector most of his life, from growing up on a farm in avocado groves, to more than eight years with Future Farmers of America (FFA), and now active in the farmworker movement for more than three years.

Daniel McClain

Daniel McClain is director of Program Operations for Graduate Theological Programs at Loyola University Maryland. His areas of research and publishing include the doctrine of creation, theologies of education and formation, political theology, and theologies of art and image. In addition to these areas, he also has led classes and workshops on the theology and ethics of work and creativity.

Join us as we discuss how farm workers are organizing, how individuals and groups are becoming involved, and what we can all do about it in our own communities and churches. To register for this webinar, send an e-mail to kfurrow@brethren.org with your name and contact information.

-- Katie Furrow recently began a term of Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) working with the Church of the Brethren Office of Public Witness.

Source: 10/28/2014 Newsline

Russell Matteson named district executive for Pacific Southwest District

Russell L. Matteson has accepted a call to serve Pacific Southwest District as district executive, beginning Jan. 16, 2015. He has 18 years of experience in ministry, currently serving as co-pastor of Modesto (Calif.) Church of the Brethren with his wife, Erin Matteson.

Previously the Mattesons co-pastored Fellowship in Christ Fremont (Calif.) Church of the Brethren from June 1993 to July 1996. Additionally, he served as director of Marketing and Sales for Brethren Press from July 1999 to August 2003, and was a youth worker with Brethren Volunteer Service from September 1988 to August 1989.

His leadership in Pacific Southwest District has included service on the Program Committee, Ethics Committee, Financial Task Force, and Camp Peaceful Pines Program Committee, where he has been chair and has served on the Executive Committee. Denominationally, he has been a worship coordinator for the 2012 Young Adult Conference, presenter at Annual Conference sessions related to technology and creativity in worship, and served on the Worship Planning Committee for the 2015 Annual Conference.

He holds master of divinity degree from Bethany Theological Seminary, and a bachelor’s degree in economics from Grinnell College.

The Pacific Southwest District Office will continue to be located in La Verne, Calif.

Source: 10/28/2014 Newsline

Brethren bits

• New Carlisle (Ohio) Church of the Brethren is hosting an event with Mark Yaconelli, titled “The Way of Radical Compassion: Practicing the Spiritual Path of Jesus” on Nov. 15 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Yaconelli is a writer, speaker, retreat leader, spiritual director, community activist, youth worker, storyteller, and co-founder and program director for the Center for Engaged Compassion at Claremont (Calif.) School of Theology. “This workshop will focus on practices and strategies for creating a local, personal storytelling series that strengthens community, heals shame, cultivates compassion, and builds inter-generational relationships,” said an invitation. “Through presentation, ritual, contemplative processes, and narrative exercises participants will develop the skills and practices for creating their own community storytelling series.” Registration opens at 8:30 a.m. Cost is $20, and includes lunch. Ministers may receive .6 continuing education credit. Childcare will not be available. Conference sponsors include New Carlisle Church of the Brethren, the Rosenberger Ministry Fund, Whotkee R. WeYin? Publishing, and Southern Ohio District. The registration deadline is Nov. 3. For more information contact Vicki Ullery, associate pastor, at ncbrethren01@aol.com.

• Suzie Moss is retiring as administrative assistant for Western Pennsylvania District, as of Oct. 31, and her daughter, Tina S. Lehman, will be filling the position, according to an announcement in the district newsletter. Lehman holds an associate’s degree in Graphic Design from Pittsburgh Technical Institute and has worked at the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art at Johnstown, Pa., where she was the Museum site coordinator and education administrator. Before her marriage she was a member at Arbutus Church of the Brethren, and currently is a member at Stahl Mennonite Church. Moss wrote in a farewell in the district newsletter: "I have been 'Suzie Speaking' for the last 23-plus years. A wonderful surprise retirement party was planned for the afternoon of the 19th, and it truly was a surprise!" The event was held in the dining hall at Camp Harmony.

• The Church of the Brethren is seeking an individual to fill a full-time salaried position of director of Brethren Disaster Ministries. Major responsibilities include informing and engaging Church of the Brethren constituents in Brethren Disaster Ministries activities, maintaining ecumenical and interagency relationships to facilitate response to human need in the US, coordinating with staff to employ strategy and operations to facilitate the Church of the Brethren’s mission, providing sound financial budget management and initiating Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF) grants for domestic response activities. Required skills and knowledge include strong interpersonal skills; ability to articulate, support, and operate out of the vision, mission, and core values of the Church of the Brethren as defined by the Mission and Ministry Board; ability to uphold and support the basic beliefs and practices of the Church of the Brethren as determined by Annual Conference; knowledge of International Building Code and ability to act within a multicultural and multigenerational team environment. Training or experience with making effective presentations and providing adult education, especially in conducting skill training workshops, managing staff and volunteers, and in house construction and repair is required. A bachelor’s degree is required with a preference for an advanced degree. An associate degree or experience in relevant fields will be considered. This position is based at the Brethren Disaster Ministries Office in New Windsor, Md. Applications will be received beginning immediately until Dec. 15, and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the position is filled. Qualified candidates are invited to request the application packet by contacting the Office of Human Resources, Church of the Brethren, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120; 800-323-8039 ext. 367; humanresources@brethren.org.

• Pinecrest Community, a Church of the Brethren-related nonprofit continuing care retirement community in Mount Morris in the Rock River Valley of Illinois, is seeking a full-time chaplain. The primary purpose of the position is to care for the spiritual needs of residents, families, and staff as needed. The chaplain will lead a variety of pastoral care services and serve as an inter-disciplinary team member assisting in resident care plan sessions, documenting the pastoral care provided and spiritual assessments of residents from admission through discharge. The qualified candidate must be a licensed or ordained minister within the Church of the Brethren and have experience with and understanding of the needs and challenges of the geriatric population. Clinical Pastoral Education is preferred. The candidate also must possess leadership ability and willingness to work harmoniously with other staff. For more about Pinecrest go to www.pinecrestcommunity.org. Because this position requires ministerial credentials in the Church of the Brethren, candidates should contact the district executive in their own district to express interest in the position. 

• The Church of the Brethren Office of Public Witness has signed a letter regarding the current nuclear nonproliferation negotiations with Iran. The letter was signed by 37 organizations and sent to members of Congress on Oct. 23, indicating concern that Congress is meddling with sensitive diplomacy in the final weeks before a Nov. 24 deadline to reach an agreement on Iran’s nuclear program. The agreement is anticipated to provide access for inspectors to Iran’s nuclear sites and reduce the likelihood of Iran acquiring a nuclear weapon., among other stipulations. The letter expresses “deep concern with inaccurate and counterproductive rhetoric from a handful of Members of Congress regarding possible outcomes of the current negotiations.... Congress’ authorization of the President’s power to suspend and re-impose US sanctions on Iran is clear and unmistakable in each piece of legislation it has passed on the subject. Use of these provisions by the President to implement the initial phase of an agreement that ensures Iran does not acquire a nuclear weapon would reflect an affirmation, not a subversion, of Congress’ will.” The wide range of groups signing the letter include other Christian denominations and groups such as the United Methodist Church and Evangelicals for Middle East Understanding, as well as the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation, J Street, MoveOn.org, the National Iranian American Council, Progressive Democrats of America, and VoteVets, among others. For more information contact Nathan Hosler, Director, Office of Public Witness, Church of the Brethren, 337 N. Carolina Ave, SE, Washington DC 20003; nhosler@brethren.org.

• From May 15-31, 2015, Bethany Theological Seminary is again offering its intercultural travel seminar to Marburg, Germany. “Worship with the city's oldest church congregation,” said an invitation. “Learn from nationally renowned scholars of religion. Talk with pastors, students, and lay leaders. Reside with host families. Visit Wittenberg and the Wartburg.” Although this seminar is not a Brethren Heritage Tour, there will be a day outing to Schwarzenau, the village where the first Brethren baptisms were held in 1708. For further information, contact professor Ken Rogers at rogerke@bethanyseminary.edu or 617-999-5249.

• 'Tis the season! For church holiday fairs and bazaars, that is. Here are just a few of the fairs, bazaars, and other such events being planned by congregations in early November:
• Cloverdale (Va.) Church of the Brethren announced its 26th annual Women’s Fellowship Arts and Crafts Show on Nov. 1 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. with handcrafted products made by 32 crafters, baked goods, and homemade breakfast and lunch. Proceeds go to the church’s outreach ministries including a food pantry, the Botetourt Resource Center, and Bradley Free Clinic.
  
• Bridgewater (Va.) Church of the Brethren holds an annual Alternative Christmas Fair on Nov. 15, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., with groups or agencies scheduled to have exhibits including Heifer International, Trees for Life, Habitat for Humanity, a food
• Northview Church of the Brethren in Indianapolis, Ind., hosts an annual Alternative Christmas Fair on Nov. 15, 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., offering the  opportunity to purchase gifts from and donate to charitable organizations that promote peace, justice, fair trade, and environmental stewardship. A homemade lunch will be served. “Shop with Principle, Purpose, Pleasure,” said an invitation.
  
• Bush Creek Church of the Brethren’s Women’s Fellowship offers a Crafts Bazaar in Monrovia, Md., on Nov. 8, 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. On sale will be handmade crafts, needlecrafts, ornaments, toys, aprons, cards, jewelry, houseplants, garden produce, home-made baked goods, and more. Breakfast and lunch will be served and door prizes awarded.
  
• Penn Run (Pa.) Church of the Brethren will sponsor a Holiday Home and Craft Show on Nov. 8 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Penn Run Christian Outreach Center behind the church. “We will have crafters, a silent auction, pie auction, bake sale, and concessions available!” said an announcement.
  

• November is the last month for Church of the Brethren district conferences in 2014:
• Illinois and Wisconsin District meets at Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin, Ill., on Nov. 7-8.
  
• Shenandoah District meets at Bridgewater (Va.) Church of the Brethren on Nov. 7-8.
  
• Pacific Southwest District gathers at Brethren Hillcrest Homes in La Verne, Calif., on Nov. 7-9.
  
• Virlina District holds its conference in Roanoke, Va., on Nov. 14-15.
  

• The Powerhouse Regional Youth Conference has reached its fifth anniversary in 2014. The event returns to Camp Mack on Nov. 15-16, providing a weekend of worship, workshops, music, recreation, and more for senior high youth in the Midwest and their advisors. This year's theme is “Almost Christian: Seeking an Authentic Faith" drawing from the book "Almost Christian" by Kenda Creasey Dean. Jonathan Shively, director of Congregational Life Ministries for the Church of the Brethren, is the keynote speaker. Cost is $75 for youth, $65 for advisors. Find out more at www.manchester.edu/powerhouse/registration.htm.

• Shepherd’s Spring Outdoor Ministry Center in Sharpsburg, Md., is providing an aid station for the JFK 50 Mile Race on Nov. 22. “Join us as we provide an aid station,” said an invitation. “No running required--just passing out water and snacks to those who tackle the 50-mile challenge.”

• Psalm 42 by Felix Mendelssohn will be a highlight of the Bridgewater (Va.) College Chorale, Concert Choir, and Oratorio Choir concert to be held on Sunday, Nov. 9, at 3 p.m. in the Carter Center for Worship and Music. The performance is under the direction of John McCarty, assistant professor of music and director of choral music. The Oratorio Choir, with more than 60 members including students, faculty, staff, alumni, and members of the community, will perform Psalm 42 with two students as soprano soloists: Kayla Becker, a music major from Bridgewater, Va., and Kaitlyn Harris, an athletic training major from Wyomissing, Pa. A 26-member orchestra, including members of the music faculty and students, along with local professional musicians, will accompany the work. The concert also includes a number of other pieces. The concert is free and open to the public.

• The University of La Verne, a Church of the Brethren-related university in southern California, in late September was named by White House officials as a recipient of the 2014 President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll, “designated as a top 5 institution in the category of interfaith and community service,” said a release from the school. The ceremony, at George Washington University, drew presidents of higher education institutions, students, administrators and chaplains, among others. University of La Verne representatives who attended were president Devorah Lieberman, chaplain Zandra Wagoner, provost Jonathan Reed, professor of Religion and Philosophy Richard Rose, Office of Civic and Community Engagement director Marisol Morales, and two La Verne students. Programs that set La Verne apart from other institutions included Freshman La Verne Experience’s (FLEX) Community Engagement Day, which introduces new students to the value of volunteering, and students who have contributed thousands of hours of service to community groups addressing issues such as hunger, homelessness, and environmental conservation; the university’s various summer camp programs introducing high school students to career paths and the college experience; REACH Business Camp, which invites high school juniors and seniors to learn how to develop a business plan while experiencing campus life; and efforts in the area of interfaith cooperation, such as the university’s Summer Service Program pairing students with religious, secular, and social service organizations.

• In more news from the University of La Verne, Lucile Leard, a lifelong member of Glendale (Calif.) Church of the Brethren, has been honored with the university’s Service to the Community Award. The award was presented during the Homecoming Alumni Dinner on Oct. 24.

• Springs of Living Water in Church Renewal has announced that the next Springs Academy for Pastors and Ministers by phone begins Feb. 4. Pastors and ministers can enroll for 5 morning 2-hour group calls over 12 weeks starting Feb. 4. “During the calls they share new life practicing spiritual disciplines,” said an announcement. “They learn a seven-step path that builds renewed spiritual energy and, using servant leadership, build on the strengths of their church. A group from the church walks along and shepherding calls are made.” Continuing education units are available. Springs of Living Water is celebrating a tenth year of assisting churches to go to the next step in renewal. For more information and a video about the ministry go to www.churchrenewalservant.org. Contact leaders David and Joan Young at davidyoung@churchrenewalservant.org or 717-615-4515.

Source: 10/28/2014 Newsline

Credits

Newsline is produced by the news services of the Church of the Brethren. Contact the editor at cobnews@brethren.org. Contributors to this issue of Newsline include Deborah Brehm, Kim Ebersole, Mary Jo Flory-Steury, Theresa Ford, Katie Furrow, Bryan Hanger, Mary Kay Heatwole, Nathan Hosler, Ferol Labash, Kendall Rogers, Walt Wiltschek, Andrew Wright, David Young, and editor Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of News Services for the Church of the Brethren.