Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Quote of the Week
“Still many people in the bush and unaccounted for....”
-- Brethren videographer David Sollenberger, who returns this week from a reporting trip to Nigeria. Along with Carl and Roxane Hill, who have been mission workers and teachers at Kulp Bible College (KBC), and staff liaison Markus Gamache of Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN, the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria), Sollenberger has visited camps of displaced people and observed food distributions that are part of the crisis response effort of EYN, Global Mission and Service, and Brethren Disaster Ministries. In a brief e-mail to the Global Mission and Service Office, he reported there are “still many people in the bush and unaccounted for” since insurgents took the EYN headquarters and nearby city of Mubi in late October. More from his trip to Nigeria will be shared as it becomes available.
Sollenberger took the above photo at an inter-religious relocation site which is welcoming both Christians and Muslims, one of the relocation sites for internally displaced people organized with leadership from EYN staff and funding help from American Brethren.
Source: 11/12/2014 Newsline
Global Food Crisis-funded project in Nigeria is lost along with EYN headquarters compound
An agriculture project of Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN, the
Church of the Brethren in Nigeria) which has received funding from the
Global Food Crisis Fund (GFCF), has been lost in the overtaking of EYN
headquarters by Boko Haram insurgents.
The manager of the project reported the loss in an e-mail to Jeffrey S. Boshart, who manages the GFCF for the Church of the Brethren. His e-mail told the story of how he and his family fled from Boko Haram, taking with them Bible college students and children from other families. (See excerpts from his e-mail below. Identifying names and locations have been omitted as a measure of protection for the manager and his family).
In more news from Nigeria, EYN president Samuel Dante Dali was one of the Nigerian Christian leaders who signed a joint statement on the Boko Haram insurgency. As reported by Nigerian news the statement said, in part, “The Christian leaders are worried over the recent takeover of six local governments in Adamawa State namely; Madagali, Michika, Mubi North, Mubi South, and parts of Hong and Maiha Local Governments by the insurgents. We are also worried that the Christians are been systematically eliminated by members of the Boko Haram Islamic extremists. We are forced to believe that the whole attack is a deliberate plan to exterminate Christians living in the affected areas.” Read the report on the statement from the “Premium Times” at www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/170999-boko-haram-suspend-all-political-activities-christian-leaders-tell-jonathan-others.html.
Agriculture project raised chickens
“Almost defying belief, right up until the EYN headquarters were overrun, and despite ever increasing violence in the area, the staff of EYN’s Rural Development Program (RDP) agriculture division continued to operate a successful poultry project supplying eggs to local vendors who would in turn sell eggs to villages across the region,” reported Boshart.
RDP's staff provided agricultural services such as the sale of fertilizers and seeds, and training for farmers in the region. The program, officially titled the EYN Integrated Community Based Development Programme (ICBDP) Rural Development Agriculture Department, had received GFCF grants totaling $50,000 in 2012-2014.
“They were known for the quality of their products and filled a niche in the region that in other parts of the world would be filled by either government agencies or private enterprise,” Boshart noted.
The manager of the RDP agricultural work shared in his e-mail how staff continued to return daily to care for the flock until the day of the attack on the EYN headquarters. Now the RDP staff are dispersed and consumed with caring for their own families. Under the current circumstances, the agriculture and community development work of RDP will be superseded by the need to feed and shelter displaced people.
“I know this is just one of many many stories,” Boshart said. “Speaking for the members of the GFCF Review Panel, I wish to extend my prayers and sympathy for the loss of loved ones, farms, personal property, as well as the loss of this service ministry within the life of the EYN church,” Boshart said. “We stand ready to respond to requests for assistance to rebuild and reshape this ministry when the time comes.”
Excerpts from the e-mail report:
Source: 11/12/2014 Newsline
The manager of the project reported the loss in an e-mail to Jeffrey S. Boshart, who manages the GFCF for the Church of the Brethren. His e-mail told the story of how he and his family fled from Boko Haram, taking with them Bible college students and children from other families. (See excerpts from his e-mail below. Identifying names and locations have been omitted as a measure of protection for the manager and his family).
In more news from Nigeria, EYN president Samuel Dante Dali was one of the Nigerian Christian leaders who signed a joint statement on the Boko Haram insurgency. As reported by Nigerian news the statement said, in part, “The Christian leaders are worried over the recent takeover of six local governments in Adamawa State namely; Madagali, Michika, Mubi North, Mubi South, and parts of Hong and Maiha Local Governments by the insurgents. We are also worried that the Christians are been systematically eliminated by members of the Boko Haram Islamic extremists. We are forced to believe that the whole attack is a deliberate plan to exterminate Christians living in the affected areas.” Read the report on the statement from the “Premium Times” at www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/170999-boko-haram-suspend-all-political-activities-christian-leaders-tell-jonathan-others.html.
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Photo by Jay Wittmeyer
The manager of the agriculture project poses with supplies, during a
happier time at the headquarters of Ekklesiyar Yan'uwa a Nigeria (EYN,
the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria).
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“Almost defying belief, right up until the EYN headquarters were overrun, and despite ever increasing violence in the area, the staff of EYN’s Rural Development Program (RDP) agriculture division continued to operate a successful poultry project supplying eggs to local vendors who would in turn sell eggs to villages across the region,” reported Boshart.
RDP's staff provided agricultural services such as the sale of fertilizers and seeds, and training for farmers in the region. The program, officially titled the EYN Integrated Community Based Development Programme (ICBDP) Rural Development Agriculture Department, had received GFCF grants totaling $50,000 in 2012-2014.
“They were known for the quality of their products and filled a niche in the region that in other parts of the world would be filled by either government agencies or private enterprise,” Boshart noted.
The manager of the RDP agricultural work shared in his e-mail how staff continued to return daily to care for the flock until the day of the attack on the EYN headquarters. Now the RDP staff are dispersed and consumed with caring for their own families. Under the current circumstances, the agriculture and community development work of RDP will be superseded by the need to feed and shelter displaced people.
“I know this is just one of many many stories,” Boshart said. “Speaking for the members of the GFCF Review Panel, I wish to extend my prayers and sympathy for the loss of loved ones, farms, personal property, as well as the loss of this service ministry within the life of the EYN church,” Boshart said. “We stand ready to respond to requests for assistance to rebuild and reshape this ministry when the time comes.”
Excerpts from the e-mail report:
Dear Bro. Jeff,For more about the ministry of the Global Food Crisis Fund go to www.brethren.org/gfcf.
I really thank God almighty for hearing from you this difficult period, it is expected that I should be feeding you with information about our situation at EYN headquarters from time to time, but unfortunately it has became very difficult for me. Since first week of September, precisely since on the 8th we have not been stable in the office because we were also displaced from the headquarters, we can only came in and stay to feed our birds and attend to our clients in not more than one hour time, then we run to hide, we are coming from refugees in nearby villages. We tried by all means...to see that we worked well up to this moment where things became worst on the 28th of Oct.... We narrowly escaped death from gun shots. But never the less, the two projects (poultry egg production and fertilizer) we are working on were very successful, until this time where everything was captured by the insurgents and we lost everything except the amounts we have in our bank account.... I am now in tears as am writing you this message presently. Just as I told you we narrowly escaped gun shots and death, I was even separated from family that day. And it took the grace of God that I found them, I escaped and saved the lives of 36 people.... They are students from KBC and their village was also captured and therefore no place to go, they were forced with tears to follow me and I stayed with them for 13 good days...I could not run and leave them behind.... Yesterday I relocated my family to [another state]; my family size now is presently 10 in number including 3 children who were separated from their parents since September. Besides this entire situation my wife is seven months pregnant and she was now frightened from the gun shots. We are seriously in a difficult situation because we could not take anything to eat, the two vehicles I have were occupied with KBC students’ children. I could not force them to get down from the car but rather I have to escaped with them leaving everything behind. Then how do we feed and how do we survive? The children with me now are crying morning and evening thinking that they are finished. But God is really with us and shows us his mercies.... All my staff as well EYN headquarters staff were scattered everywhere, some are still in the bush with their families. My staff were scattered and have no help, all we have was spent on farms and now we leave the produce behind which are no longer ours.... Jeff, we desperately need your intensive prayers, because we Christians have no land to stay in the north or shall we relocate ourselves to the south? Could Nigerian government recapture back those areas from the terrorists for us to go back and have peace? God shall have mercy on us.... I will get back to you soon as to our next plan in regard to RDP projects. I will keep in touch with you. And looking forward to hearing from you. Thanks and Blessings to you and Bro. Jay [Wittmeyer, executive director of Global Mission and Service].
Manager, Ekklesiyar Yan'uwa a Nigeria Integrated Community Based Development Programme-Rural Development Agriculture Department
Source: 11/12/2014 Newsline
WCC general secretary: Dismay over attacks on churches in Nigeria
A release from the World Council of Churches
The recent attacks on the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria (EYN)--a World Council of Churches member church--and the Kulp Bible College, among other churches in Nigeria, have prompted an expression of profound dismay from the general secretary of the WCC, Olav Fykse Tveit.
The attacks in the last week of October in Nigeria are linked to the militant group Boko Haram, according to media reports.
“We want to offer our support and solidarity to the whole people of
Nigeria, and its government,” Tveit said in a statement issued on Nov. 5
from the WCC headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
“It is vital that the government take immediate and proactive steps to protect all the people of Nigeria and work strategically to defend them against such attacks, as well as supporting practically those who have recently experienced these atrocities,” said Tveit.
In his statement, the WCC general secretary appreciated efforts by the Christian Council of Nigeria in working with other organizations to provide aid to people fleeing the violence. A large number of the local population fled to the Cameroon border in order to escape the violence.
Tveit also drew attention to the plight of more than 200 school girls who were abducted six months ago and are still held captive. “We believe this to be totally unacceptable. We call upon the government to continue to work for their well-being and speedy release,” he said.
Tveit affirmed a statement from the EYN president Samuel Dante Dali, who said, “We need urgent help from the international community if the global community can have compassion on us.... 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.”
Tveit invited Christians and people of good will to hold Nigerian people in prayers.
The full statement from the WCC general secretary:
The recent attacks on the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria (EYN)--a World Council of Churches member church--and the Kulp Bible College, among other churches in Nigeria, have prompted an expression of profound dismay from the general secretary of the WCC, Olav Fykse Tveit.
The attacks in the last week of October in Nigeria are linked to the militant group Boko Haram, according to media reports.
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Photo by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford
World Council of Churches general secretary Olav Fykse Tveit during a
visit to the United States, when he was hosted at the Church of the
Brethren General Offices.
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“It is vital that the government take immediate and proactive steps to protect all the people of Nigeria and work strategically to defend them against such attacks, as well as supporting practically those who have recently experienced these atrocities,” said Tveit.
In his statement, the WCC general secretary appreciated efforts by the Christian Council of Nigeria in working with other organizations to provide aid to people fleeing the violence. A large number of the local population fled to the Cameroon border in order to escape the violence.
Tveit also drew attention to the plight of more than 200 school girls who were abducted six months ago and are still held captive. “We believe this to be totally unacceptable. We call upon the government to continue to work for their well-being and speedy release,” he said.
Tveit affirmed a statement from the EYN president Samuel Dante Dali, who said, “We need urgent help from the international community if the global community can have compassion on us.... 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.”
Tveit invited Christians and people of good will to hold Nigerian people in prayers.
The full statement from the WCC general secretary:
The WCC has learned with dismay that on October 29 the headquarters of the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria (EYN) and Kulp Bible College, which are located in the village of Kwarhi, as well as churches in the nearby town of Mubi in Borno State, north-east Nigeria, were attacked and seized by elements linked to Boko Haram. In the course of the attack there was substantial loss of life, and many local people have fled. We have heard that several thousands of people have travelled to the Cameroon border, seeking refuge from the violence. They have immediate needs for food, shelter, medication and clothes. Our partner organization, the Christian Council of Nigeria, is working with others to try and respond to this need.Source: 11/12/2014 Newsline
We want to offer our support and solidarity to the whole people of Nigeria, and its government. It is vital that the government take immediate and proactive steps to protect all the people of Nigeria and work strategically to defend them against such attacks, as well as supporting practically those who have recently experienced these atrocities. We continue to draw the world’s attention to the fact that, in spite of some recent news reports, the 200 plus school girls who were abducted six months ago in northern Nigeria are still held captive. We believe this to be totally unacceptable. We call upon the government to continue to work for their well-being and speedy release.
We are aware that the forthcoming elections mean that there are many important issues to be addressed. But at this time the security of the Nigerian people must continue to have the government’s full attention and highest priority.
I was particularly concerned and moved to read the statement made by Dr Samuel Dante Dali, the President of EYN, and I want to draw it to the attention of our member churches internationally: “We need urgent help from the international community if the global community can have compassion on us… 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 invite my fellow Christians throughout the world and all people of good will to hold in prayer the people of Nigeria.
Rev. Dr. Olav Fykse Tveit
WCC general secretary
Reflections on the destruction of the Armenian church in Deir Zor
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Photo © WCC/Gregg Brekke
A young girl near her family's tent in a camp for internally
displaced persons in Iraq. Her family is among several others driven
away from home by the ISIS offensive.
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Amid the ongoing offensive by the so-called Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS), which recently caused the destruction of the Armenian church and genocide memorial in Deir Zor, Syria--an incident condemned by the World Council of Churches (WCC)--staff members of the council reflect on what such incidents may mean for Christians and other faith communities in the region.
The Armenian church attacked by ISIS on Sept. 21 was built in the late 1980s to house a memorial and a museum containing remains of the victims of the Armenian genocide. The memorial was visited by Armenians each year to commemorate the genocide.
WCC general secretary Olav Fykse Tveit condemned the ISIS attack on the Armenian church in his letter addressed to the heads of Armenian member churches, including Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of all Armenians, Armenian Apostolic Church Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, and Aram I, Catholicos of the Armenian Apostolic Church, Holy See of Cilicia.
“We understand that the destruction in late September of this church building, museum, and compound took place not only in the year leading to commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the Armenian genocide but also on the 23rd anniversary of Armenian independence. With you, we are convinced that perpetrators of this premeditated crime will never succeed in erasing from the minds of Armenians and the world the memory and meaning of the desert of Deir Zor,” Tveit said.
“The attack on the church is a difficult incident due to the awful stories of suffering faced by the Armenians linked to Deir Zor,” says Clare Amos, who works as the WCC's program executive for inter-religious dialogue and cooperation. Amos was referring to thousands of refugees who as part of the Armenian genocide in the early 1900s were taken on forced marches in the Syrian desert towards Deir Zor.
“Not just in the minds of Armenians but in the minds of other Christians too, Deir Zor symbolizes the history of the Armenian genocide. When such an attack happens to a place which has historical and political significance, one cannot avoid thinking how this may deliberately be meant to send a certain signal to the Armenians,” Amos says.
Yet such an incident cannot be seen in isolation from the larger reality of war, says Michel Nseir, WCC’s program executive for special focus on the Middle East. Nseir says the attack on the Armenian church is among several attacks on buildings and monuments in Syria that are of historical and religious significance to people of faiths, including Christians.
Communities and religious extremism
Nseir says churches and Christians in Syria and Iraq have always considered themselves an integral part of the social fabric of their countries. He says Christians have expressed their suffering as part of the suffering of the entire population affected by military violence and religious extremism.
To put an end to religious extremism, Nseir says, a solution must be inclusive and encompassing enough to solve the crisis for Christians, as well as for everyone else. “Peace and justice are desired for all in the Middle East. When this vision is accomplished, Christians as well as other religious groups will be able to live with dignity and freedom in their homelands,” he said.
Nseir says this vision of the Middle Eastern churches has always been affirmed by the WCC. “Churches are calling for peace and justice for all and are working for reconciliation and healing.” He said that “churches are facilitating dialogue, coordinating humanitarian and relief efforts amidst the conflict, and relieving the pain of those suffering and affected by the war.”
As part of the WCC’s efforts to accompany its member churches in the region, WCC staff members visited the Kurdistan region of Iraq in August. The visitors, who brought back testimonies from Christian communities and displaced persons, also highlighted the human rights situation in the region at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland.
Speaking on “signs of hope” in the region, Amos recalls days from the “Arab Spring.” She said it was a period when there was talk about common citizenship in the Middle East for Christians and Muslims. “I think it’s still a vision to hold on to. Yet in such a situation where the sheer survival of Christian presence in Iraq and Syria is a grave concern, we know that the journey to accomplish such a vision is still a long one,” she said.
Nseir notes that several countries in the Middle East have been ruled by totalitarian regimes, military dictatorships or dynastic rulers. “A transformation that brings a positive change will take time,” he says. “My hope lies with young people. When they choose to stay in their countries and work for transformation, the vision for peace and justice becomes possible,” he concluded.
The WCC general secretary’s letter condemning attacks on Holy Martyrs Church of Deir Zor can be found online at www.oikoumene.org/en/resources/documents/general-secretary/messages-and-letters/condemning-attacks-on-holy-martyrs-church-of-der-zor.
Source: 11/12/2014 Newsline
LeAnn Harnist resigns as treasurer of the Church of the Brethren
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| LeAnn Harnist |
Harnist began her work for the Church of the Brethren in the position of director of Financial Operations and assistant treasurer. From Oct. 2008 through Oct. 2011 she served as executive director of Systems and Services and assistant treasurer before being promoted to her current role.
During her tenure, she has led the departments of Finance, Brethren Historical Library and Archives, Buildings and Grounds, and Information Technology for the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., and the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md.
Her major responsibilities have included property management and development, oversight of numerous funds, and maintenance of the financial stability and sustainability of denominational ministries. She has been a leading staff member in the work to maintain the functionality of facilities at the Brethren Service Center that were vacated when the New Windsor Conference Center closed. In a recent major project, she guided the design, staging, training, and implementation of the denomination’s new Raiser’s Edge database.
Among other additional services she has provided to the church, she has been a member of the Program Feasibility Committee of Annual Conference. She holds a bachelor of arts degree in accounting, finance, and management from McPherson (Kan.) College.
Source: 11/12/2014 Newsline
Office of Public Witness helps plan conference on drone warfare
The Church of the Brethren Office of Public Witness is helping to
plan an upcoming conference on drone warfare. The event is scheduled for
Jan. 23-25 at Princeton (N.J.) Theological Seminary. “We want to reach
out to see if any Brethren would be interested in attending and also let
Brethren know that the conference is happening to raise awareness about
the issue,” reported Bryan Hanger, advocacy assistant at the Office of
Public Witness.
“We are hoping to have people start registering right away,” he added.
The conference is held under the auspices of the Coalition for Peace
Action. Speakers will include George Hunsinger, Princeton Theological
Seminary’s Hazel Thompson McCord Professor of Systematic Theology;
Richard E. Pates, Roman Catholic Bishop of Des Moines, Iowa; Jeremy
Waldron, professor at the New York University School of Law; Hassan
Abbas, professor and chair of the Department of Regional and Analytical
Studies, CISA National Defense University, Washington D.C.; Rob Eshman,
publisher and editor-in-chief of the Jewish Journal; Antti Pentikainen,
Finn Church Aid’s executive director and chair for the Civil Society
Advisory Committee for the United Nations Development Program; Marjorie
Cohn, professor at Thomas Jefferson School of Law.
The “three tasks” for those attending the conference, according to the website promotion for the event:
For questions contact Nathan Hosler, director of the Office of Public Witness, at nhosler@brethren.org.
Source: 11/12/2014 Newsline
“We are hoping to have people start registering right away,” he added.
The “three tasks” for those attending the conference, according to the website promotion for the event:
- Clarify the nature of lethal drones. Policy recommendations will be
made by the conference to the US government. Speakers with expertise in
military strategy, international law, US law, and national security will
make presentations followed by discussion by all participants.
- Apply our various traditions to our understanding of drone warfare to
more fully understand this issue. People of all faiths are invited to
participate.
- Recommendations will be developed for how the religious community will address this issue.
For questions contact Nathan Hosler, director of the Office of Public Witness, at nhosler@brethren.org.
Source: 11/12/2014 Newsline
Brethren Press offers Advent devotional, winter Guide for Biblical Studies, Yearbook on CD
Brethren Press has a number of new resources available including
“Awake: Devotions for Advent Through Epiphany,” “Church of the Brethren
Yearbook: 2014 Directory, 2013 Statistics” in CD format, and the winter
quarter of “A Guide for Biblical Studies” on the theme “Acts of
Worship.” Purchase from Brethren Press at www.brethrenpress.com or order by calling 800-441-3712.
“Awake: Devotions for Advent Through Epiphany” is
written by Sandy Bosserman, a former district executive and an ordained
minister in the Church of the Brethren. The Advent devotional is
published in a pocket-sized paperback format suitable for individual use
and for congregations to supply to their members. The theme “Awake” is
inspired by 1 Thessalonians 5:5-6 (NIV): “You are all children of the
light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the
darkness. So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us
be awake and sober.” Purchase for $2.75 per copy, or $5.95 for large
print.
Coming for Lent 2015: “Searching for the Kingdom of
Heaven: Devotions for Ash Wednesday Through Easter” by Craig H. Smith.
Order by Dec. 3 to receive the pre-production prices of $2.25 or $5 for
large print.
The “Church of the Brethren Yearbook: 2014 Directory, 2013 Statistics” is available in CD format. Included are directories of denominational agencies and staff, districts, congregations, and ministers, and the 2013 statistical report. Cost is $21.50. One per user.
“Acts of Worship” is the theme for the winter quarter of A Guide for Biblical Studies, the Church of the Brethren Bible study curriculum for adult Sunday school classes and small groups. The book includes a weekly Bible study for December 2014 and January and February 2015. Ed Poling is the author of the lessons and study questions, and Frank Ramirez is the author of the “Out of Context” feature. Cost is $4.25 for regular size print, or $7.35 for large print. Purchase one book for each class member.
For more information go to www.brethrenpress.com.
Source: 11/12/2014 Newsline
Coming for Lent 2015: “Searching for the Kingdom of
Heaven: Devotions for Ash Wednesday Through Easter” by Craig H. Smith.
Order by Dec. 3 to receive the pre-production prices of $2.25 or $5 for
large print.The “Church of the Brethren Yearbook: 2014 Directory, 2013 Statistics” is available in CD format. Included are directories of denominational agencies and staff, districts, congregations, and ministers, and the 2013 statistical report. Cost is $21.50. One per user.
“Acts of Worship” is the theme for the winter quarter of A Guide for Biblical Studies, the Church of the Brethren Bible study curriculum for adult Sunday school classes and small groups. The book includes a weekly Bible study for December 2014 and January and February 2015. Ed Poling is the author of the lessons and study questions, and Frank Ramirez is the author of the “Out of Context” feature. Cost is $4.25 for regular size print, or $7.35 for large print. Purchase one book for each class member.
For more information go to www.brethrenpress.com.
Source: 11/12/2014 Newsline
Brethren bits
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| 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 . |
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- 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.
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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.
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- 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.
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.
Tuesday, November 04, 2014
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
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
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.Source: 11/04/2014 Newsline
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
New Church Development Advisory Committee reorganizes
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| 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. |
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
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’
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
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?”
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
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 |
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
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| Musa Mambula, National Spiritual Advisor to Ekklesiyar Yan'uwa a Nigeria (EYN, the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria) |
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.
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| 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.
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.
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