Conference publicizes key points of strategic plan.

A strategic plan to guide Annual Conference staff and volunteers was recently approved by Standing Committee when it met in Peoria, Ill. Standing Committee is made up of delegates from the Church of the Brethren districts. Conference executive director Lerry Fogle reported that the plan was developed by the Annual Conference Council over the past two years and will be instrumental in steering staff, the Program and Arrangements Committee, and other volunteers who plan and implement activities related to the annual meeting of the Church of the Brethren.

The complete strategic plan will be available on the Annual Conference website later this summer. The mission, vision, values, and objectives of the plan were distributed to Conference delegates at Peoria. These components of the plan are as follows:

Mission:

"Annual Conference exists to unite, strengthen and equip the Church of the Brethren to follow Jesus."

Vision:

"Annual Conferences must be special times in the life of the Church of the Brethren. We envision Annual Conferences... that bring or revive commitment to Jesus; that glorify God in excellent worship, work, and fellowship; that facilitate the business of the church through business sessions, study committees, agency reports, and disposition of queries; that are open and welcoming, and bring together Brethren from all cultures and points of view to proclaim Jesus as Lord; where we humbly celebrate our oneness in the Body as well as our unique place and ministry in the Body; that reach out to the local community with the Good News; that have dynamic preaching and quality leadership development; that have open and compassionate dialogue; that are a catalyst for personal and corporate change, and Kingdom momentum; that make people enthusiastic about witness and service."

Values:

"We believe that Jesus is the head of the Church. As part of the larger Body of Jesus Christ, the Church of the Brethren has a unique ministry to the world. Therefore, Annual Conference, the Church of the Brethren assembled, is committed to: the Lordship of Jesus Christ, worship, unity, the New Testament as our rule of faith and practice, relationships, identity, a variety of faith experiences."

Objectives:

"Develop intentional community in the Annual Conference experience. Foster Christian spirituality and affirm it. Combine the broadest possible welcome with the strongest possible commitment to following Jesus. Develop a relational discernment style that is open to others of different cultures. Enhance age group programming. Foster open and compassionate dialogue in the Annual Conference experience. Develop an Annual Conference marketing plan to strengthen the event. Review and recommend enhancements to insight sessions. Incorporate intentional Bible studies that relate to the Conference theme and the issues facing the church. Strengthen the financial position of Conference. Minimize risks associated with planning and conducting Conference. Leverage technology to maximum advantage for Annual Conference use. Complete administrative tasks that strengthen Conference and unite the church."

Fogle emphasized that Standing Committee not only approved a strategic plan but a process that will be followed to regularly review, revise, and implement measures to ensure that the vision for Annual Conference is being realized and the mission accomplished. For more information about Annual Conference see www.brethren.org/ac/index.htm.

Source: 8/17/2005 Newsline
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Brethren Benefit Trust celebrates 'no smoking' decision.

The next time you sit down to eat in a KFC or Pizza Hut restaurant, you may notice something is missing--second-hand smoke. Yum! Brands, parent company of the two fast-food chains, based in Louisville, Ky., announced Aug. 12 that "no smoking" signs will be going up across the country beginning immediately. The new policy affects the 1,200 KFC and 1,675 Pizza Hut restaurants owned by the company. Franchisees will be encouraged to adopt their own smoke-free policies.

At the Yum! annual shareholder meetings in 2002, 2003, and 2004, Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT) presented a resolution seeking a no-smoking policy in response to the 1981 Church of the Brethren Annual Conference statement on tobacco. Although the resolutions did not pass, they did bring the issue of second-hand smoke to the attention of the company's board and management, according to a Yum! representative.

"We applaud Yum!'s decision and celebrate with our Brethren Foundation clients and Brethren Pension Plan members whose investments in stocks provide the opportunity for BBT to engage in socially responsible investment initiatives," said Wil Nolen, BBT president. "This action is proof that small voices can make a difference."

The nearly $400 million BBT manages consists of assets from 200 Brethren Foundation clients and retirement monies of more than 4,000 Brethren Pension Plan members. BBT manages about $1.17 million in Yum! stock.

At the 2004 annual meeting of Yum! Brands, BBT representatives were joined by Jennifer Hollifield of the American Lung Association of Kentucky. In response to Friday's announcement, she said, "It's great to see that Yum! Brands is being proactive and taking the initiative to make their restaurants smoke-free."

Yum! Brands has more restaurants around the world than any other company. Its Taco Bell, Long John Silver's, and A&W All-American Foods chains are already smoke-free in company-owned restaurants within the US.

"We are taking this action today to help heighten awareness of second-hand smoke issues raised by US Surgeon General, Richard Carmona, who has indicated second-hand smoke may be harmful and hazardous to the health of the general public," said Gregg Dedrick, KFC president, and Peter Hearl, president of Pizza Hut, speaking Friday during a press conference. "In our opinion, going smoke-free is simply the right thing to do."

For more information about BBT and its ministries, go to www.brethrenbenefittrust.org.

Source: 8/17/2005 Newsline
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Credit union implements staggered terms for board.

Church of the Brethren Credit Union (CoBCU) members elected board members for the next year in a venue and process new to the organization, at their annual meeting in July.

Meeting for the first time at the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference, in Peoria, Ill., credit union members elected nine returning and three new members to serve on the board during the upcoming year. However, unlike in past years, not all board members were elected to one-year terms. Concerned about the potential loss of corporate memory if a number of board members should simultaneously decide not to run for re-election, the CoBCU board in April approved an executive committee recommendation that created three-year terms.

To immediately implement these terms, all 12 candidates were up for election--four for one year, four for two years, and four for three years. Henceforth, only four board seats will be up for election for three-year terms in a given year.

Elected for 2005-06 for one-year terms were Nevin Dulabaum, director of Communication and Information Services for the Brethren Benefit Trust; Cathy S. Huffman, a teacher from Rocky Mount, Va.; Don Post, self-employed contractor and collector from Elgin, Ill.; and Ed Woolf, gift management/resources assistant for the General Board.

Elected for two-year terms, from 2005-07, were Janice L. Bratton, an investment officer of Hershey (Pa.) Trust Company; Paul W. Brubaker, executive vice president of Ephrata (Pa.) National Bank; Eric P. Kabler, owner of a financial service firm in Johnstown, Pa.; and Wilfred E. Nolen, president of Brethren Benefit Trust.

Elected for three-year terms (2005-08) were Ann Quay Davis, co-managing partner of Vicenti, Lloyd, and Stutzman in Glendora, Calif.; Darryl K. Deardorff, chief financial officer of Brethren Benefit Trust and director of the Brethren Foundation Inc.; David K. Gerber, senior vice president of Finance at Brethren Home Community in New Oxford, Pa.; and Daniel Poole, pastor of Covington (Ohio) Church of the Brethren.

The CoBCU executive committee for 2005-06 is David Gerber, chair; Nevin Dulabaum, vice chair; Ann Quay Davis, treasurer; and Ed Woolf, secretary.

Source: 8/17/2005 Newsline
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Northern Plains District meets 'With Christ, Without Fear.'

Under the theme, "With Christ, Without Fear," the Northern Plains District Conference was held on the campus of the University of Northern Iowa on Aug. 5-7. Tim Peter, pastor of Prairie City Church of the Brethren, served as moderator. Some 180 people were registered for the event, with others joining for worship and activities at various times during the weekend.

Joseph Helfrich was a special guest who provided music and story-telling during worship and in a Saturday evening concert. Helfrich delighted worshipers on Sunday morning by sharing a song he composed during the weekend based on the sermon preached by Peter on Friday evening.

The "worshipful work" business agenda included approving the 2006 district budget, electing district leaders, approving the closure of Prairie Peace Fellowship in Surrey, N.D., and approving locations for the 2006 and 2007 district conferences. Leaders from two new church projects in Sioux City, Iowa, and Minneapolis, Minn., were introduced during the business session.

A blood drive service project conducted by the District Witness Commission gathered 38 units of blood. Conference-goers also enjoyed an auction that raised over $3,100 for the General Board's Emergency Disaster Fund.

Several attendees were recognized. Camp Pine Lake Board president Kirby Leland presented the annual Volunteer of the Year Award to Cletus and Dorothy Miller for their many years of service. Milestones in Ministry awards were given to several ordained ministers during a Friday evening banquet.

The conference concluded with Sunday worship and consecration of new officers and leaders. Diane Mason, a laywoman from Fairview Church of the Brethren, was installed as moderator. Lay speaker Jerry Waterman from Iowa River Church of the Brethren was selected as moderator-elect.

The 2006 Northern Plains District Conference will be held in Des Moines, Iowa, on July 1--the Saturday afternoon just prior to the beginning of the 2006 Annual Conference of the Church of the Brethren.

Source: 8/17/2005 Newsline
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New shoes, a stop at the denominational offices for the Walk Across America.

On Aug. 11 a New Balance shoe store in Geneva, Ill., witnessed a unique event in Don Vermilyea's Walk Across America: the chance to buy a new pair of shoes in person, and to try them on with the help of a sales clerk.

Vermilyea is a Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) worker on a Walk Across America, a quest to visit on foot every Church of the Brethren congregation in the US that extends an invitation. Along the way, Vermilyea shares his message "that it is time to get serious about our relationship with Jesus Christ." He has walked for more than three and a half years, and more than 15,700 miles, beginning in Tucson, Ariz.

BVS staff usually buy his shoes from congregational and individual gifts, and mail them to his next destination, said Vermilyea--who walks everywhere he goes and does not accept rides except in unusual circumstances. The shoes he exchanged for a new pair carried him from southern Louisiana to Arkansas, then from Missouri to Faith Church of the Brethren in Batavia, Ill. They had "only" 1,312 miles on them, Vermilyea said, regretting that he was not able to put on one pair the full mileage of the Illinois and Wisconsin District. However, this pair had become unwalkable because of uneven wear on the heels. Walking up to 34 miles a day, Vermilyea cannot take the chance of injury to his ankles.

After the shoe store, Vermilyea's next stop was the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., where he presented a slide show and held a question and answer session on Aug. 13. Vermilyea called on his audience to "wake up" to changes needed in American society, showing pictures he has taken along his walk of environmental destruction, pollution, development, and even road kill--and signs people have displayed expressing hatred and support for the war in Iraq. "I'm walking across America because we... Christians need to do things differently," he told the group of denominational staff who gathered to hear him.

On Sunday Aug. 14, he preached and held a "talk on" at Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin. Previous stops in the district included many of the congregations in Illinois, the church in Wisconsin, and two weeks with the junior and senior high youth camps at Camp Emmaus in Mount Morris, Ill. Vermilyea was invited to join the junior highs for their annual seven-mile hike to White Pines State Park by camp counselor Jim Miner. While the rest of the group accepted a hayride back to camp, five youth opted to walk back with Vermilyea. Miner said that at the close of the senior high camp, more than 90 people walked a stretch of road with Vermilyea, the largest group to walk with him since the start of his trek in February 2002.

From Elgin, Vermilyea headed east through Chicago-land, making stops at Church of the Brethren congregations and a large downtown Presbyterian church. On Aug. 16 he visited York Center Church of the Brethren in Lombard, and today Aug. 17 he will be at Douglas Park Church of the Brethren in Chicago. On Aug. 21 he plans to speak at Fourth Presbyterian Church, and on Aug. 24 at First Church of the Brethren in Chicago.

From there, Vermilyea plans to walk through southern Illinois and eventually to Florida, where he hopes to spend the winter. Plans for 2006 and following years include walking north through the east-coast states, and then heading west again to visit the mid-western Brethren. Vermilyea estimates that he will complete the walk in 2011 or 2012.

For more information and a photo gallery see www.brethren.org/genbd/witness/Walk.html.

Source: 8/17/2005 Newsline
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Brethren bits: Remembrances, job openings, and more.

• J. Stanley Earhart died at Brethren Village in Lancaster, Pa., on Aug. 1. He was executive secretary of Southern Pennsylvania District from 1970-83. He also served as part-time director of District Ministries for the General Board 1983-86. He pastored several Pennsylvania and Maryland congregations from 1942-70. In his work for the General Board he supported district staff and assisted districts in calling church members to district staff positions. Earhart served on several denominational committees, including Standing Committee and the Annual Conference Central Committee, and chaired the Council of District Executives. In retirement, he also directed the Keystone Bible Institutes, a cooperative Bible study program of the Church of the Brethren, Brethren in Christ, and Mennonite Churches of eastern Pennsylvania. He was a graduate of Elizabethtown (Pa.) College--which conferred on him an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree--and of Bethany Bible Training School. He is survived by his wife, Anna Lois (Laurie), and three children. A memorial service was held Aug. 13 at Lampeter (Pa.) Church of the Brethren.
  
  
• John Wilburn Lewallen died Aug. 8 at Timbercrest Church of the Brethren Home in North Manchester, Ind., surrounded by family. He was 86. He had served as executive minister of Northern Illinois and Wisconsin Districts beginning in 1955, and of Northern Indiana District from 1962-77. He also served as pastor of Church of the Brethren congregations in Kansas and Ohio, where he retired from the ministry in 1982. He was a graduate of McPherson (Kan.) College and of Bethany Biblical Seminary in Chicago, Ill. Lewallen had a lifelong interest in photography and also was skilled at woodworking, refinishing antiques, creating stained glass lamps, and cutting and polishing rocks. He had lived at Timbercrest Health Care since 2001. His family includes his wife, Joy, two children, four grandchildren, and six great grandchildren. Services were held this afternoon, Aug. 17, at the Timbercrest Chapel in North Manchester.
  
  
• The General Board seeks a public health professional or physician to serve as a consultant for Community Health/Church Development in the Dominican Republic. This is a fulltime staff position. The consultant will guide development of a community-based health program similar to the model of the Lafiya Rural Health program in Nigeria, working closely with mission coordinators in the DR. A candidate with appropriate health background will be considered, but a person or team with both health and pastoral experience is preferred. Qualifications include background and licenses in medicine, public health, or a related field; grounding in Church of the Brethren heritage, theology, and polity; communication skills and ability to facilitate change and motive others; ability to function collaboratively with colleagues in a team; Spanish and/or Creole language skills or ability to learn functional language. Theological education and pastoral experience is an asset. Starting date is January 2006. Applications will be received and the search will continue until the position is filled. Initial deadline to indicate interest is Sept. 15. Qualified candidates are invited to submit a resume and letter of application, and to request three references to send letters of recommendation to Office of Human Resources, Church of the Brethren General Board, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120; 800-323-8039 ext. 258.
  
  
• The General Board's Emergency Response/Service Ministries (ER/SM) is publicizing staffing vacancies in Darfur, Sudan, with ACT (Action by Churches Together) and Caritas Internationalis, the federations of Protestant, Orthodox, and Catholic aid agencies worldwide. The Church of the Brethren is providing relief to the humanitarian crisis in Darfur, working through Church World Service, ACT, and Caritas Internationalis. "These are demanding positions in a very high stress situation," ER/SM staff reported. "The ACT management makes all placement decisions, but we can work to help any interested Brethren with a placement." Positions with job descriptions are: architect/construction engineer for the health program (6-12 month contract), environmental health program manager (12-month unaccompanied contract is offered), health advisor (up to the end of December), health promotion officer (up to the end of December), officer manager Khartoum (up to the end of December), protection officer (up to the end of December). Positions currently without a job description are: partner support advisor, personnel and administrative manager, nutrition program manager, security manager. Terms and conditions include contract with a six-week probationary period, start date immediate with later starting dates considered, salary competitive with international NGO salary and benefits package. Contact Roy Winter, Emergency Response/Service Ministries, 601 Main St., P.O. Box 188, New Windsor, MD 21776; 800-451-4407 ext. 7; rwinter_gb@brethren.org.
  
  
• Mennonite Mutual Aid (MMA) is seeking a chief information officer (CIO) to fill its highest-ranking technology position. The CIO is responsible for all information technology strategy, systems, projects, and staff related to traditional and Web technology infrastructure. Qualified applicants will have a bachelor's degree in a technical or business discipline, at least five years of related management or leadership experience, and understanding of network and data architectures. Experience in the finance or health industries is a plus. MMA provides insurance and financial services and is affiliated with Anabaptist denominations. MMA is an equal opportunity employer offering a competitive salary and excellent benefits. Send resume and cover letter to MMA, Human Resources, 1110 N. Main St., P.O. Box 483, Goshen, IN 46527; hr@mma-online.org; fax 574-537-6635.
  
  
• The Annual Conference Anniversary Committee invites you to submit music, drama, or worship resources, representing the 2008 tricentennial theme, "Surrendered to God, Transformed in Christ, Empowered by the Spirit." Music submissions, due Aug. 31, can include hymns, folk songs, praise songs, anthems, and children's songs. Dramatic writings, due Dec. 31, can be full-length dramas, skits, monologues, and vignettes for adults, children, and/or youth. Worship resources, due Dec. 31, can include calls to worship, prayers, litanies, responsive readings, offertory statements, children's stories, benedictions, worship centers (description and/or drawing), Powerpoint presentations, and interpretive movements. All submissions become the property of the Anniversary Committee for use in tricentennial activities. The name, address, and phone number of the writer or composer should not appear on submissions but should be included on a separate page. Music, drama, and worship resources should be sent to the Annual Conference Office, 1451 Dundee Ave, Elgin, IL 60120.
  
  
• If you lost a valuable item at Annual Conference this summer in Peoria, Ill., please call the Annual Conference office, 800-323-8039 ext. 296, or e-mail annualconference@brethren.org.
  
  
• Brethren from across the country gathered at Genesis Church of the Brethren in Putney, Vt., on Aug. 5-7 for the first A Place Apart spiritual retreat. A Place Apart is an initiative to create a Brethren retreat center where Brethren and others can step apart from the busy world to reconnect with God in a wilderness setting. Participants celebrated the Liturgy of the Hours during the weekend, gathering for worship at key times throughout the day. Leadership included Carol Scheppard and Paul Grout. A Place Apart is planning further retreats, in different regions, for April 2006. For more information contact apart@sover.net.
  
  
• Osceola (Ind.) Church of the Brethren will host a food-eating contest at the Osceola Bluegrass Festival Aug. 20-21, according to "The Truth" newspaper. Participants, who are encouraged to sign up early at the church's booth, will choose nicknames and bring their own cheering sections. On the menu: hot dogs, pies, peanut butter sandwiches, dill pickles, and/or sweet corn.
  
  
• Oregon and Washington District will hold its conference Aug. 26-28 at Camp Koinonia in Cle Elum, Wash., with Carol Mason as moderator. "The focus will continue to be on expanding skills for discernment in decision-making, including release of the 'way we want the vote to go' and becoming aware of how the language we use reveals beliefs about faith and politics," reported Lani Wright, Standing Committee member for the district. "Small groups will practice 'minute-making,' a listening skill for discernment, adding this to the skills practiced last year. The district uses the manual 'Formal Consensus,' recommended by On Earth Peace, as a model for business sessions."
  
  
• The 11th Annual Camp Bethel Benefit Golf Tournament will be held Aug. 24 with a 12:45 p.m. start at Botetourt Country Club. The event benefits the camp in Fincastle, Va. Cost is $60 or $240 for a team of four including a banquet that evening at the camp; $10 per person for banquet only. Register by Aug. 19 at www.campbethelvirginia.org/golf.htm.
  
  
• The Brethren Revival Fellowship is bringing its summer Brethren Volunteer Service orientation unit to the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., beginning Aug. 21. Fifteen volunteers and staff are expected. The orientation will conclude Aug. 31.
  
  
• Bridgewater (Va.) College will hold its opening convocation for the school year Aug. 30 at 9:30 a.m. at Nininger Hall, with president Phillip C. Stone speaking. The event is free and open to the public. For more information call 800-476-4289 or see www.bridgewater.edu.
  
  
• COBYS Family Services is seeking to attract 500 people and raise $60,000 on Sept. 11 at its 9th Annual Bike and Hike and Dutch Country Motorcycle Ride. Events begin at 1 p.m. at Lititz (Pa.) Church of the Brethren. The event includes a three-mile walk, a 10-mile bicycle Fun Ride, a 25-mile bicycle Challenge Ride, and a 60-mile Dutch Country Motorcycle Ride. Participants obtain sponsors or pay a registration fee. Grand prizes for top fundraisers include a $100 gift card from Bob Neff Tours, a "Do as You Please" trip for two to New York City from Conestoga Tours, two free tickets to Knoebels Grove Amusement Resort, and a two-hour private plane ride for three. Youth group prizes include 20 free Hersheypark tickets and a gym and pizza night. COBYS is a Church of the Brethren-related agency providing adoption and foster care services, counseling, family life education, and a teen mother and child group home. For more go to www.cobys.net/new.htm.
  
  
• Bob Edgar, general secretary of the National Council of Churches (NCC), is urging President Bush to join a group of mothers of soldiers killed in Iraq in an interfaith prayer service outside the Bush ranch in Crawford, Texas, at noon Aug. 19. The service has been called by Gold Star mother Cindy Sheehan "as an opportunity for Americans and others across the world to pray for our soldiers in Iraq, their families, and in particular the mothers of our fallen," according to an NCC release. Sheehan's son Casey was killed in Baghdad on April 4, 2004. She, along with United Methodist laywoman Celeste Zappala and other mothers, has been waiting to meet with the President since his five-week vacation began. Edgar visited the mothers and conducted a worship service on Aug. 12 at the invitation of fellow Methodist Zappala, whose son Sherwood was killed in Iraq. "This war, like any war, has generated terrible losses, immense pain, and sharp divisions in our country," Edgar said. "Each day we see the pain in the faces of the Gold Star mothers and their families. It's evident that President Bush, who has faced agonizing decisions in this war, feels the pain as well.... Let's suspend the rhetoric for a few minutes on Friday and join together--commander-in-chief and families of the fallen--to seek strength from the God who sustains us all." In an open letter to religious leaders Aug. 15, Sheehan urged those who cannot attend to host a prayer vigil in their cities. For more information see www.ncccusa.org.
  
  
• Habitat for Humanity International's Board of Directors has named Jonathan T.M. Reckford as chief executive officer, in a release by Religion News Service. Reckford has served for two years as executive pastor of Christ Presbyterian Church of Edina, Minn. Previously he was president of stores for the Musicland division of Best Buy, senior vice president of corporate planning and communications for Circuit City, and director of strategic planning for Disney Design and Development. "I believe passionately in Habitat's mission and can't think of a movement I would rather join," said Reckford, who succeeds interim CEO Paul Leonard. For more information see www.habitat.org.

Source: 8/17/2005 Newsline
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General Board offers a Brazilian immersion experience.

Experience the church at work in Brazil, learn about the culture and history of the country, and see the sights as part of a delegation, "A Brazilian Immersion," scheduled for Nov. 19-30. The delegation will be led by Greg and Karin Davidson Laszakovits, Brazil representatives for the Global Mission Partnerships of the General Board.

Pastors, scholars, laypeople, and those interested in witness or mission are invited to sign up for the trip. The schedule will include visits to most of the six fellowships of Igreja da Irmandade (Church of the Brethren in Brazil), participation in their Annual Conference, and sessions on Brazilian culture. The teachings of Jesus will be explored from a Brazilian viewpoint. The trip will be capped off with a two-day sightseeing trip to Rio de Janeiro.

Projected cost is $1,995. Deadline for signing up is Oct. 15. Contact Mary Munson at 800-323-8039 ext. 230 or mmunson_gb@brethren.org.

Source: 8/17/2005 Newsline
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Credits

Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board, on every other Wednesday with other editions as needed. Newsline stories may be reprinted if Newsline is cited as the source. Connie Burkholder, Nevin Dulabaum, Lerry Fogle, Mary Lou Garrison, Mary Kay Heatwole, Elaine Foster Hyde, Janis Pyle, Jim Stokes-Buckles, and Lani Wright contributed to this report.

NEWS

• Leaders are announced for TOGETHER launch event.
  
• Northern Ohio District focuses on theme from 1 John.
  
• Southeastern District is 'Anchored in Jesus.'
  
• Hurricane affects Disaster Response project in Florida.
  
• Brethren bits: Job openings, stewardship resources, and more.

UPCOMING EVENTS

• Brethren to gather in Virginia for Caring Ministries Assembly.
  
• Youth conference will offer opportunity to 'Come and See.'
  
• Bethany Seminary hosts a weekend for 'Open Hearts/Open Minds.'
  
• Retreat focuses on Brethren in mission in the 21st century.

RESOURCES

• ABC encourages churches to promote Covering Kids and Families.

Leaders are announced for TOGETHER launch event.

Leaders have been announced for the launch event of TOGETHER: Conversations on Being the Church. TOGETHER is an outgrowth of the ecclesiology conversation begun by the district executives. A program to extend the conversation to the whole church is being carried out by a committee of staff of denominational agencies and districts. "This consultation is a first step toward a new and common understanding within the church concerning who, whose, and what we are," planners said.

Lisa M. Hess and Brian D. Maguire will lead the TOGETHER launch event in New Windsor, Md., on Feb. 24-26, 2006. They also will help lead conversations at Annual Conference 2006. Hess teaches practical theology--ecclesiology, ministry formation, Christian education, and leadership development--at United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. She is an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church (USA). Maguire is pastor of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Xenia, Ohio. Prior to entering the ministry he worked as an attorney and human relations consultant helping Fortune 500 corporations, nonprofit organizations, higher education institutions, and state and local governments through periods of change.

Maguire and Hess will facilitate a training process for district leaders at the launch event. Each district will select, elect, or discern one facilitator and two general representatives to send to the meeting. One Standing Committee member per district, as well as the district executives, also will be invited to participate. Annual Conference officers and leaders from the Conference agencies will attend as well.

The launch is envisioned as "a dynamic encounter with people from across the denomination, discussing 'What does it mean to be the church?'" planners said. The hope is for district leaders to be prepared to model and lead different styles of conversation on that question in their own areas. Participants also will become familiar with the study guide for the TOGETHER conversations, which will be available for use in districts and congregations and at the 2006 Annual Conference. The training will focus on awareness of relationships within the Church of the Brethren structure, the broad scope of church history including Brethren history and Pietism and Anabaptism, recent patterns of church growth and development, the decline in mainline denominations, and generational differences in society.

Following the launch, the TOGETHER committee will develop dates and places for area and district meetings in conjunction with district executives, the Congregational Life Ministries staff of the General Board, and Ron and Harriet Finney, the volunteer coordinators for the regional events.

Plans for Annual Conference 2006 include an exhibit explaining the conversation process, a report to the Conference, insight sessions, special guest speakers, and experiences of the conversation process in small groups. Conversations also will take place at National Youth Conference and National Older Adult Conference in 2006. Information and insights from all of the conversations will be compiled. A culminating TOGETHER event is planned for Annual Conference 2007. For more information contact Mark Flory Steury, chair of the TOGETHER committee, at mfsteury_ds@brethren.org. For information about the launch event contact Julie Hostetter at jhostetter_gb@brethren.org.

Source: 8/3/2005 Newsline
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Northern Ohio District focuses on theme from 1 John.

"That You May Know..." from 1 John 5:13 was the theme of the Northern Ohio District Conference at Ashland University on July 29-31. Over 350 people registered for the conference, which featured messages by moderator Terry Baldwin, pastor of Silver Creek Church of the Brethren in Pioneer; moderator-elect Andy Hamilton, pastor of Center Church of the Brethren in Louisville; and 2006 Annual Conference moderator Ron Beachley, who serves as executive of Western Pennsylvania District.

Members of the Junior and Senior Performing Arts Camp performed two musicals titled "Once Upon a Time Shop" and "Holy, Holy, Awesome God." Annual Conference agency representatives including Stan Noffsinger, general secretary of the General Board, shared reports and led insight sessions on denominational happenings.

The delegates adopted an ambitious budget for 2006. Among other business items approved by the delegates was a recommendation for closure of Trinity Church of the Brethren in Massillon, a church plant established by the district in 1977. Members of the congregation were on hand for heartfelt discussion and prayer, and worship aids from the church's communion table were used in the conference worship services.

Hamilton and newly-called moderator-elect Larry Bradley, pastor of Reading Church of the Brethren in Homeworth, were consecrated at the closing worship service on Sunday morning. Hamilton announced that the 2006 conference theme would focus on the Body of Christ from 1 Corinthians 12.

Source: 8/3/2005 Newsline
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Southeastern District is 'Anchored in Jesus.'

"Anchored in Jesus" was the theme of Southeastern's 37th District Conference held in Mars Hill, N.C., from July 29-31. Past moderator Harold Rose presided over the business meetings, which included 106 delegates representing 33 of the 39 churches and one fellowship. In addition, activities were held each day for one of the largest gatherings of youth in recent years. The youth led worship on Saturday evening. Guest preacher for two worship services was Wallace Cole, pastor of Mount Airy (N.C.) Church of the Brethren.

The delegate body voted to re-open the Ramey Flats church in Clintwood, Va., as a fellowship under the leadership of Jack Taylor; begin a Bible study project in Marion, N.C., under the leadership of James Huskins; and approve a new Hispanic project/fellowship in Jefferson, N.C., called "Walking in Christ...Caminando Con Cristo," under the leadership of pastor Doug Diamond. The delegates also approved a budget of $76,901 for 2006. Installed as moderator for 2006 was Jim Hoffman, with Donna Shumate chosen as moderator-elect.

Other highlights included recognition of 24 people from HIS Way Fellowship/Iglesia Jesucristo El Camino, who reported that there are now 20 members and an average attendance of 35 on Sundays, and 15-20 on Wednesday evenings. A quilt auction was held, and a special offering of $750 was received to assist in sending youth to National Youth Conference.

Source: 8/3/2005 Newsline
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Hurricane affects Disaster Response project in Florida.

"Hurricane Dennis forced us to batten down the hatches and close down the project the week of July 10," reported Jane Yount, coordinator of the General Board's Disaster Response program. The program has a rebuilding project ongoing in Florida following the series of hurricanes that hit the state in 2004. "Thankfully, Dennis didn't wreak as much havoc as Ivan, but more people are now in need of assistance," Yount said. The current Disaster Response project is located in Pensacola and in Escambia County, which Yount said is the poorest county in Florida and the 17th poorest in the nation.

"The hurricane season is coming up on its eighth named storm," Yount added. "This kind of hurricane activity so early in the season is unprecedented and serves as a reminder that the world is an unpredictable place. But we can take heart, for we have victory over the world in Christ!" For updated hurricane predictions for the year, the Disaster Response staff recommend www.disasternews.net/news/news.php?articleid=2744.

Yount highlighted volunteer needs in Florida, where volunteers are scheduled only through Oct. 1. "The entire month of October is open for anyone who feels called to go for a week or two," she said. She called on district disaster coordinators to recruit volunteer groups for two-week commitments if possible. Work at the Florida project consists mainly of repairs to water-damaged sections of homes, including drywall, floors, insulation, and siding. "As is often the case in many low-income coastal areas where older homes have been battered by previous storms, some of the repairs may have been needed prior to the latest storm," Yount said. "Some pre-existing damage may need to be repaired in order to make the current storm repairs more durable and meet local building codes."

A Disaster Response rebuilding project in Hallam, Neb., following tornado damage, closed on July 29. Brethren Volunteer Service workers Larry and Sandee Kitzel have stayed on longer to shut down the project. Larry Kitzel "reports that we ended in good standing with all the homeowners we have assisted, and all are very appreciative of our work," Yount said.

A new project in Belmont County, Ohio, repairing and rebuilding homes following flooding, continues this summer. "Southeastern Ohio was hit with three severe floods," Yount said, "first by the remnants of Hurricane Ivan in Sept. 2004, a second time in December, and the third in January, caused by rain and rapid snow melt. In Belmont County, dozens of homes along the Ohio River and its tributaries were destroyed and over 150 more were heavily damaged." The Brethren project began in June. Work to be done includes demolition; interior repairs such as drywall, insulation, and floors; vinyl siding, decks, and steps; and rebuilding from the ground up.

For more information about volunteer opportunities in Florida and Ohio, please contact a district disaster coordinator or call the Disaster Response office at 800-451-4407.

Yount also repeated a request for a volunteer tool coordinator team to come to the program's New Windsor, Md., office to work at standardizing the tools in tool trailers and to test and replace tools as necessary. Contact Roy Winter at rwinter_gb@brethren.org for more information.

Source: 8/3/2005 Newsline
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Brethren bits: Job openings, stewardship resources, and more.

• Brethren Benefit Trust seeks a director for the Pension Plan and Employee Financial Services, an administrative position with management responsibility for the Church of the Brethren Pension Plan, Supplemental Income Fund for Equitable Annuitants, Church Workers Assistance Plan (CWAP), and programs of financial education and planning. The person in this position will provide leadership and oversight of the denominational pension plan with 4,000 members and $260 million in assets, management of the three benevolent ministries of CWAP, and design and lead programs of financial and retirement planning. This administrator will supervise 1-2 employees for operations and member services. Minimum qualifications are a bachelor's degree and three years of experience in one or more of the following areas: employee benefits administration, human resources management, employee assistance programs, business and risk management, financial planning and investment counseling. Qualifications preferred but not initially required include Certified Employee Benefits Specialist, Certified Financial Planner, Series 7 securities license, and experience with trust and recordkeeping systems. Preferred qualifications can be attained on the job. Compensation and benefits are comparable to similar positions of other church agencies of similar size. The position is available Jan. 1, 2006, with an earlier commencement date negotiable. Letters of interest with resumes should be sent to Susan Brandenbusch, 1505 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120; e-mail sbrandenbusch_bbt@brethren.org. For telephone inquiries call 800-746-1505.
  
  
• The National Council of Churches (NCC) seeks an assistant director for the Interfaith Climate and Energy Campaign (ICEC), a collaborative effort with the Coalition on the Environment and Jewish Life (COEJL). The ICEC proclaims and enacts God's biblical mandate of stewardship by working in the faith community to curb global climate change, with special attention to the needs of the poor. This is a grant-funded staff position. Qualifications include 4-5 years of experience as a campaign organizer, recruiting skills, capacity to inspire trust and excellence, capacity to convey religious messages on policy issues to a broad range of audiences and to train others to do likewise, ability to work with people of different faiths, experience assuring accomplishment of objectives, computer and communication skills, ability to take initiative and facilitate multiple projects while working in a team, and experience preparing funding reports and proposals and overseeing budgets. Distant organizing or e-advocacy skills, experience training staff and volunteers, knowledge of html, and staff management experience are a plus. Knowledge of climate and energy issues preferred. The assistant director is responsible to work with the Development Department and the Eco-Justice Program director to assure that the position and programs are funded. If funds are not available the position is terminated. Location in Washington, D.C. Starting salary $59,052. Send cover letter, resume, and writing sample to: Attn: Joan Gardner, ICEC Search, National Council of Churches, 475 Riverside Dr., 8th Floor, New York, NY 10115. No calls please. The NCC is an equal opportunity employer. For more information go to www.ncccusa.org and www.protectingcreation.org.
  
  
• Congregations are informed that the order form for the stewardship resources available from the General Board this year was not included in the stewardship packet sent to the Church of the Brethren congregations. The resources include bulletin covers, commitment cards, book marks, posters, letterhead and business envelopes, as well as a list of recommended books and curriculum. For your convenience there are three ways to order the resources: by fax at 800-667-8188, by phone at 800-441-3712, or on-line at http://www.brethren.org/genbd/funding/resources/bp.htm, where item numbers, descriptions, and prices are given. Brethren Press apologizes for this error and is working diligently to assure that the order form is included in every packet going forward, reported customer service representative Shanita Hamlin. "We value your business and patience," she added. Call Brethren Press customer service at 800-441-3712.
  
  
• Paw Paw, Mich., was the setting of a 27-hour Level I Disaster Child Care Training Workshop on July 22-23. Participants learned how to recognize and understand fears and other emotions young children experience during and following a traumatic event. "The training was a huge success with 13 persons attending, representing the states of Michigan, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Missouri," reported Helen Stonesifer of the General Board's Disaster Child Care staff. Leadership was provided by Donald Weaver from Tonawanda, N.Y., and Sheryl Faus from Manheim, Pa. Sharon Flaten, a Ministry Summer Service volunteer, also participated in the training. She is currently serving with the General Board's Emergency Response program.
  
  
• Twenty-six volunteers from Monte Vista Church of the Brethren in Callaway, Va., helped host a rest stop for the Bike Virginia Tour on June 25, at a picnic area named Monte Vista Acres. The volunteers welcomed riders, served lunch, and distributed drinks, reported the Virlina District e-newsletter. Shirley Jamison, moderator-elect for the district, shared information about the area and how Monte Vista Acres evolved. An estimated 1,300 people ate lunch and nearly 2,000 people participated in the event in all, the newsletter said.
  
  
• Northern Plains District will hold its district conference on Aug. 5-7 at the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls. Tim Peter will serve as moderator. Michigan District holds its conference on Aug. 11-14 at the Winding Creek Wesleyan Conference Center in Hastings, Mich. Gary Copenhaver will serve as moderator as the district addresses the theme, "Be Yourself, Be Bold, Be Together."
  
  
• Twenty-three Brethren from nine districts were part of a Learning Tour to Honduras sponsored by the New Community Project (NCP). The delegation returned on July 20 from the 10-day experience. The group worked with a Chorti Mayan community near the Copan Ruins to build walls for the village's new two-room school, reported NCP director David Radcliff. The group also learned of challenges facing the community including lack of sanitary facilities, respiratory disease from breathing smoke from indoor cooking fires, absence of educational opportunities beyond sixth grade, and widespread poverty. The group ranged in age from 14 to 62, with leadership provided by Radcliff and construction foreman Jim Dodd. The delegation was hosted by the Christian Commission for Development, a Honduran organization with a history of serving the poor. NCP is a Brethren-related nonprofit organization. For more information see www.newcommunityproject.org or call 888-800-2985.
  
  
• A Greater Gift/SERRV International is calling for prayer for those affected by the monsoon rains and flooding in India, including craftspeople who provide goods sold by the nonprofit alternative trade and development organization that was begun by the Church of the Brethren. President Bob Chase was on his way to address the Indian National Fair Trade Conference in Bombay and to visit a partner organization in India when the monsoon rains hit. His plane was unable to land and the conference was canceled. "The flooding in Bombay was terrible, costing more than several hundred lives...and as always seems to be the case, having its worst impact on the poor in the low-lying slum areas," he reported in an e-mail to supporters of the work. "I thought you would want to know that this flood has had a terrible impact on Pushpika's organization and the people she works with," he added. Pushpika Freitas recently joined the SERRV board. She lives in Evanston, Ill., and manages a program called MarketPlace: Handwork of India. "Please keep the people of Bombay in your thoughts and prayers," Chase asked. For information about A Greater Gift/SERRV International see www.agreatergift.org.
  
  
• The New Sudan Council of Churches (NSCC) has expressed "profound shock and deep sorrow" at the death of Sudan's first vice president John Garang de Mabior. Garang led the Sudan Peoples Liberation Movement (SPLM) and was a leader in the making of a Comprehensive Peace Agreement between the southern rebels and the government of Sudan. The Church of the Brethren is a partner with the NSCC in its work in southern Sudan. Garang died in a helicopter crash on July 30, during a trip from Uganda. Several fellow Sudanese and Ugandans also lost their lives in the weather-related accident that came only three weeks after Garang's appointment to the vice president position. His death sparked rioting in Sudan's capital Khartoum. The NSCC called on the Sudanese people, the SPLM, and the Sudan government to remain committed to the peace agreement, "ensuring that the present dark clouds do not eclipse our aspirations." Samuel Kobia, general secretary of the World Council of Churches, also gave condolences in a letter to the churches of Sudan. He expressed "concern that the peace process in the country will continue.... We shall stand by the NSCC, the Sudan Council of Churches, and the Sudanese churches in their pastoral and ethical role in the implementation of the peace process and in their ministry of reconciliation and healing of their land."

Source: 8/3/2005 Newsline
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Brethren to gather in Virginia for Caring Ministries Assembly.

Brethren from across the country will come together at Bridgewater (Va.) Church of the Brethren Aug. 11-13 for the fifth Caring Ministries Assembly, to explore the theme "Peace Beyond Our Fears." The conference sponsored by the Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC) will offer worship and training opportunities for deacons, pastors, chaplains, and congregational caregivers.

Brethren keynote speakers will be Louise Baldwin Rieman, co-pastor of Northview Church of the Brethren in Indianapolis, and Andrew Murray, founder and director of Juniata College's Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies. Other featured speakers will be Robert Wicks, professor of pastoral care at Loyola College in Maryland, who specializes in secondary stresses that caregivers experience, and Carolyn Yoder, a nationally certified licensed counselor and director of the STAR Center at Eastern Mennonite University. Daily Bible study will be provided by Stephen Reid, academic dean and professor of Old Testament at Bethany Theological Seminary.

More than 20 workshops will cover a range of caring ministry topics with leadership by several denominational agencies. A special track of workshops has been developed for deacons and explores issues of spirituality, peace, health communication, aging, mental health, and grief. Chaplains can participate in their own track of workshops and luncheons. Other elements of the conference will include intentional times of silence for prayer, reflection, and times of rest. Pastors will be eligible to receive some continuing education credits and the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership is offering a seminar for TRIM students.

Registration continues to be open and will be available on site. Registration is $125 for the full conference, or $65 per day. For more information visit www.brethren-caregiver.org.

Source: 8/3/2005 Newsline
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Youth conference will offer opportunity to 'Come and See.'

"Things are starting to take shape in the National Youth Conference office!" reports Emily Tyler, one of the three coordinators of the 2006 National Youth Conference (NYC) along with Cindy Laprade and Beth Rhodes. Promotional materials including a brochure are ready, speakers are being confirmed, and the website--www.nyc2006.org--is being updated regularly, she said.

The dates for NYC are July 22-27, 2006 in Fort Collins, Colo., on the campus of Colorado State University. "This is where the past four NYCs have been held and the NYC staff is very excited to be working with this facility for another conference," Tyler said. All youth who have completed ninth grade through one year of college at the time of the 2006 NYC are eligible to attend. All youth must be accompanied by an adult advisor.

The theme for the conference is "Come and See" based on John 1:35-39. "In this passage, when the disciples asked Jesus where he was staying, instead of just telling them, he invited them to 'come and see,'" the brochure for the event says. "This is in keeping with Church of the Brethren heritage; letting actions speak louder than words. By inviting the disciples to come and see, Jesus was calling them to a disciple's life. NYC is the youth of the denomination's invitation to come and see who God is calling them to become as individuals, as disciples of Christ, as the Church of the Brethren, and as people of God living in a broken world."

Registrations for NYC will be accepted from Jan. 1-April 3, 2006. Cost per youth is $400, including all programs, lodging, and food while at NYC. A deposit of $200 must be paid when registering, with the balance due by April 3, 2006. All youth advisors and youth workers, and all others attending NYC also must register before April 3, 2006. Those registering before Feb. 15, 2006, will receive a free t-shirt for registering early.

Other important information that the coordinators are highlighting:

Two contests in preparation for NYC: a Youth Speech Contest and a Theme Song Contest. For the Speech Contest, youth are invited to write a 550-700 word (about 10 minutes spoken) speech focusing on the NYC theme. The two top entrants will give their speeches during a worship service at NYC. Entries should include both written and audio copies of the speech and should be sent to the NYC Office by Jan. 1, 2006. The second contest for the theme song is for anyone interested in writing music and lyrics. The song should be based on the NYC theme. The entry that is chosen will serve as the theme song for NYC 2006. Submissions of songs are due to the NYC Office by Nov. 1 in the form of both an audio recording and a printed copy of the words. Send submissions to NYC Office, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120.

The youth worker application form is ready and waiting to be sent to those interested in volunteering at the conference. "Youth workers are an essential part of the NYC staff, helping to carry out the programs and plans of the National Youth Cabinet as well as making sure that no details are missed," Tyler said. If you are interested in volunteering for the week of NYC as a youth worker or know of someone who would be interested, contact the NYC Office at nyc_gb@brethren.org, or call 800-323-8039.

Source: 8/3/2005 Newsline
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Bethany Seminary hosts a weekend for 'Open Hearts/Open Minds.'

Bethany Theological Seminary will host a weekend event for adults of all ages to focus on biblical and spiritual ways of decision making. "Open Hearts/Open Minds" will take place Oct. 21-23 at Bethany's Richmond (Ind.) campus. The registration fee is $25, which includes housing, meals, and resources.

"Open Hearts/Open Minds is more than an educational experience," said Amy Gall Ritchie, director of Student Development. "It is an encounter to open the heart and mind to the leading of God in your life." The event will include formal times of learning ways to discern one's calling or life decisions and how to put these methods to use, time for personal reflection, and interaction with other participants. Seminary faculty and students will provide leadership. For more information or to register contact Ritchie at 800-287-8822 ext. 1806 or e-mail ritcham@bethanyseminary.edu. The registration deadline is Oct. 8.

Source: 8/3/2005 Newsline
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Retreat focuses on Brethren in mission in the 21st century.

A retreat on "Another Way of Sending: Brethren in Mission in the 21st Century" will be held Nov. 2-3 at the Rising Phoenix Retreat Center in Flintstone, Md., sponsored by the General Board's Congregational Life Team for Area One. Wally Landes, pastor of Palmyra (Pa.) Church of the Brethren, will be the leader, working from his material published in the new Church of the Brethren resource, "Growing Faithful Disciples."

The retreat will focus on the questions, How do we understand the concept of mission? In what ways is your congregation in mission? In America's pluralistic setting, how do we engage in mission? And how is Brethren mission similar to that of other denominations, and how is it different? "The conference will move toward claiming a missiology which is true to our Brethren heritage and which reflects our denominational identity," said the brochure for the event. "Another Way of Sending," a review and study guide for Darrell L. Guder's "Missional Church: A Vision for the Sending of the Church in North America," is required reading for attendees.

Cost for one night and four meals is $147.00, cost for two nights and five meals is $185. One full continuing education unit is available at an extra cost of $10. Registration deadline is Oct. 19. For more information or registration forms contact Jan Glass King at 888 411-4275 or jking_gb@brethren.org.

Source: 8/3/2005 Newsline
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ABC encourages churches to promote Covering Kids and Families.

The Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC) encourages congregations to disseminate information about the "Covering Kids and Families" initiative, a national effort to help families receive low-cost or free health care coverage for children. The campaign is held during August and September as a back-to-school effort with the goals of enrolling eligible, uninsured children in Medicaid and State Children's Health Insurance Programs (SCHIP) and informing parents about these available health care programs. Such programs cover doctor visits, hospitalizations, prescriptions, and more.

Covering Kids and Families is a national program funded by the Robert Woods Johnson Foundation. The organization reports that more than 8.4 million children are uninsured in the US. At the same time, seven out of every ten uninsured children are eligible for low-cost or free health care coverage through Medicaid or SCHIP, but are not enrolled, according to an Aug. 2 release from the program. "Many people still do not know about the availability of these programs, and parents in working families might assume their children would not qualify. That is why we are all committed to publicizing 1(877) KIDS-NOW to let parents know that help is available," said Sarah Shuptrine, national program director of Covering Kids and Families.

This is the second year that ABC has become a national partner of Covering Kids and Families, and has encouraged congregations to talk about the program in their church and communities. Materials are available at www.coveringkidsandfamilies.org.

Source: 8/3/2005 Newsline
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Credits

Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board, on every other Wednesday with other editions as needed. Newsline stories may be reprinted if Newsline is cited as the source. John Ballinger, Mary Dulabaum, Julie Hostetter, David Radcliff, Marcia Shetler, Helen Stonesifer, Emily Tyler, Carol Yeazell, and Jane Yount contributed to this report.