- Annual Conference posts new polity and survey, announces fee increase.
- Church planting goal set by denominational committee.
- Brethren Academy publishes results of 2008 Pastoral Study Project.
- Children's Disaster Services updates its training curriculum.
- Southeastern District Conference called to be 'Beam ofHope.'
Thursday, August 13, 2009
NEWS
Annual Conference posts new polity and survey, announces fee increase.
The Church of the Brethren Annual Conference has made two new resources available online--the new polity document titled "A Structural Framework for Dealing with Strongly Controversial Issues," and a survey about the Conference--and has announced a fee increase for the 2010 Conference.
The Program and Arrangements Committee of the Annual Conference announced the increase in registration fees, beginning with next year's Conference in Pittsburgh, Pa., on July 3-7, 2010. Executive director Lerry Fogle has indicated that "the increase in registration fees, good for 2010 and 2011, was done in response to expanding costs of arranging and holding the annual meeting." He added a reminder that "this is the first raise in registration fees in five years." The new fee schedule replaces fees in place from 2005-09.
Beginning with the 2010 Annual Conference, advance registration for delegates will cost $275 (or $300 for onsite registration); advance registration for non-delegates will cost $95 (or $120 onsite), with discounts for those registering for the weekend or single days of the Conference only, and a discount for Brethren Volunteer Service workers; advance registration for children ages 12-21 will cost $30 (or $50 onsite), with discounts for those registering for the weekend or single days; and children under 12 will be registered for free.
The new church polity on dealing with controversial issues was adopted by the 2009 Annual Conference, which took place in June in San Diego, Calif., and will help guide the Church of the Brethren as it enters into two years of intentional church-wide conversation about issues of sexuality. The new polity document has been posted at the Conference website, go to http://www.cobannualconference.org/ac_statements/controversial_issues-final.pdf.
A second new online resource is an "Annual Conference Survey" being conducted by the Program and Arrangements Committee to gauge preferences and attendance patterns for Annual Conferences. The survey was made available in printed form at the 2009 Annual Conference and is now available online at www.cobannualconference.org/forms/survey.html.
"You are invited to register your thoughts about Annual Conference, its value to the denomination, and assist Program and Arrangements Committee in charting future direction of the annual meeting, its frequency and content," said Fogle. "Your feedback is encouraged."
Source: 8/13/2009 Newsline
The Church of the Brethren Annual Conference has made two new resources available online--the new polity document titled "A Structural Framework for Dealing with Strongly Controversial Issues," and a survey about the Conference--and has announced a fee increase for the 2010 Conference.
The Program and Arrangements Committee of the Annual Conference announced the increase in registration fees, beginning with next year's Conference in Pittsburgh, Pa., on July 3-7, 2010. Executive director Lerry Fogle has indicated that "the increase in registration fees, good for 2010 and 2011, was done in response to expanding costs of arranging and holding the annual meeting." He added a reminder that "this is the first raise in registration fees in five years." The new fee schedule replaces fees in place from 2005-09.
Beginning with the 2010 Annual Conference, advance registration for delegates will cost $275 (or $300 for onsite registration); advance registration for non-delegates will cost $95 (or $120 onsite), with discounts for those registering for the weekend or single days of the Conference only, and a discount for Brethren Volunteer Service workers; advance registration for children ages 12-21 will cost $30 (or $50 onsite), with discounts for those registering for the weekend or single days; and children under 12 will be registered for free.
The new church polity on dealing with controversial issues was adopted by the 2009 Annual Conference, which took place in June in San Diego, Calif., and will help guide the Church of the Brethren as it enters into two years of intentional church-wide conversation about issues of sexuality. The new polity document has been posted at the Conference website, go to http://www.cobannualconference.org/ac_statements/controversial_issues-final.pdf.
A second new online resource is an "Annual Conference Survey" being conducted by the Program and Arrangements Committee to gauge preferences and attendance patterns for Annual Conferences. The survey was made available in printed form at the 2009 Annual Conference and is now available online at www.cobannualconference.org/forms/survey.html.
"You are invited to register your thoughts about Annual Conference, its value to the denomination, and assist Program and Arrangements Committee in charting future direction of the annual meeting, its frequency and content," said Fogle. "Your feedback is encouraged."
Source: 8/13/2009 Newsline
Church planting goal set by denominational committee.
A commitment "to cultivate the networks and infrastructure to support 250 new church starts by 2015" has been announced by the Church of the Brethren's New Church Advisory Committee and Congregational Life Ministries executive director Jonathan Shively. The committee and Congregational Life Ministries have the role of providing denominational support to the church planting work initiated by districts in the Church of the Brethren.
"God is doing a new thing through the Church of the Brethren," said the committee in a statement at its webpage www.brethren.org/churchplanting. "A movement of emerging mission points and church planting is gaining momentum. Passion is rising. Vision is expanding. Commitment is deepening. Networks are developing. People are acting."
The new commitment includes five priorities for the work of the New Church Advisory Committee: prayer, assessment of potential church planters, training for participants in the new church movement, coaching for church planters, and cultivating of resources.
"Prayer is the first priority," said the committee. "Not one single mission or new church will begin without a strong and wide community of prayer." A yearlong denomination-wide prayer emphasis has been announced to undergird the new goal for church planting. The prayer emphasis began in May and will continue through May 2010. Go to www.brethren.org/churchplanting for a list of month-by-month suggestions for prayer and a prayer card that may be printed in English or Spanish.
In comments on the need to assess potential planters and the training and coaching that will be provided for church planters, the committee emphasized that "while all ministry gifts are welcome in the church, there are particular qualities, traits, and skills that make it more likely that a church planter will thrive in the challenges of new church development." The committee plans to have an assessment process for new church planters in place beginning in 2010, and has a goal to make sure every church planter has the support and expertise of a trained coach.
Future training opportunities in church planting may include webinars and a variety of workshops and seminars, as well as the biannual conference for the new church movement. The next such conference is scheduled for May 20-22, 2010, on the theme, "Plant Generously, Reap Bountifully" (1 Corinthians 3:6). The event will be held at Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Ind. For more information contact churchplanting@brethren.org.
Source: 8/13/2009 Newsline
A commitment "to cultivate the networks and infrastructure to support 250 new church starts by 2015" has been announced by the Church of the Brethren's New Church Advisory Committee and Congregational Life Ministries executive director Jonathan Shively. The committee and Congregational Life Ministries have the role of providing denominational support to the church planting work initiated by districts in the Church of the Brethren.
"God is doing a new thing through the Church of the Brethren," said the committee in a statement at its webpage www.brethren.org/churchplanting. "A movement of emerging mission points and church planting is gaining momentum. Passion is rising. Vision is expanding. Commitment is deepening. Networks are developing. People are acting."
The new commitment includes five priorities for the work of the New Church Advisory Committee: prayer, assessment of potential church planters, training for participants in the new church movement, coaching for church planters, and cultivating of resources.
"Prayer is the first priority," said the committee. "Not one single mission or new church will begin without a strong and wide community of prayer." A yearlong denomination-wide prayer emphasis has been announced to undergird the new goal for church planting. The prayer emphasis began in May and will continue through May 2010. Go to www.brethren.org/churchplanting for a list of month-by-month suggestions for prayer and a prayer card that may be printed in English or Spanish.
In comments on the need to assess potential planters and the training and coaching that will be provided for church planters, the committee emphasized that "while all ministry gifts are welcome in the church, there are particular qualities, traits, and skills that make it more likely that a church planter will thrive in the challenges of new church development." The committee plans to have an assessment process for new church planters in place beginning in 2010, and has a goal to make sure every church planter has the support and expertise of a trained coach.
Future training opportunities in church planting may include webinars and a variety of workshops and seminars, as well as the biannual conference for the new church movement. The next such conference is scheduled for May 20-22, 2010, on the theme, "Plant Generously, Reap Bountifully" (1 Corinthians 3:6). The event will be held at Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Ind. For more information contact churchplanting@brethren.org.
Source: 8/13/2009 Newsline
Brethren Academy publishes results of 2008 Pastoral Study Project.
In a series of visits to pastors in 2000-01 conducted by denominational staff and board members, the following were identified as things that drain pastoral energy: negative attitudes, unhealthy exercise of power, lack of numeric and spiritual growth, apathy, unrealistic and/or unclear expectations, gender barriers in placement (difficulty for women), and ambiguity of the pastor's role.
In the midst of the questions and challenges there were also signs of health and hope. Pastors spoke of those things that energized them: renewal, energy, and hope through spiritual nurturing and personal development; preparation for and leading worship; seeing the difference their ministry makes in the lives of people; congregations taking new initiatives; ministry growing out of a sense of vision; and denominational gatherings--Annual Conference and National Youth Conference.
Information, ideas, and insights from these visits, ecumenical studies, and other sources were used as the foundation for the proposal for the Sustaining Pastoral Excellence (SPE) program, funded by Lilly Endowment Inc. SPE was begun by the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership in 2004. In 2008, a survey was distributed as part of the assessment process for the ongoing SPE program.
The Brethren Academy and its ministry partners, the Church of the Brethren and Bethany Theological Seminary, with input from the district executive ministers, undertook this Pastoral Study Project. Its purpose was to better understand the needs, concerns, and effectiveness of pastors. Christian Community Inc. conducted the survey, compiled the information, and analyzed the results.
Steve Clapp, director of Christian Community, Inc., stated that the study revealed:
The academy, Bethany Seminary, Office of Ministry, districts, denominational agencies, and groups of pastors will review and discuss the Study Project to determine future direction and programing for addressing pastoral needs and continuing education.
Contact director Julie M. Hostetter at hosteju@bethanyseminary.edu to share feedback and suggestions as the academy continues its work to support pastors.
-- Julie M. Hostetter is director of the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership. This article first appeared in the academy's newsletter "The Scroll."
Source: 8/13/2009 Newsline
In a series of visits to pastors in 2000-01 conducted by denominational staff and board members, the following were identified as things that drain pastoral energy: negative attitudes, unhealthy exercise of power, lack of numeric and spiritual growth, apathy, unrealistic and/or unclear expectations, gender barriers in placement (difficulty for women), and ambiguity of the pastor's role.
In the midst of the questions and challenges there were also signs of health and hope. Pastors spoke of those things that energized them: renewal, energy, and hope through spiritual nurturing and personal development; preparation for and leading worship; seeing the difference their ministry makes in the lives of people; congregations taking new initiatives; ministry growing out of a sense of vision; and denominational gatherings--Annual Conference and National Youth Conference.
Information, ideas, and insights from these visits, ecumenical studies, and other sources were used as the foundation for the proposal for the Sustaining Pastoral Excellence (SPE) program, funded by Lilly Endowment Inc. SPE was begun by the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership in 2004. In 2008, a survey was distributed as part of the assessment process for the ongoing SPE program.
The Brethren Academy and its ministry partners, the Church of the Brethren and Bethany Theological Seminary, with input from the district executive ministers, undertook this Pastoral Study Project. Its purpose was to better understand the needs, concerns, and effectiveness of pastors. Christian Community Inc. conducted the survey, compiled the information, and analyzed the results.
Steve Clapp, director of Christian Community, Inc., stated that the study revealed:
- Overall clergy morale in the denomination is higher than reflected in previous studies.
- There are reasons to be concerned about our congregations relative to membership/attendance, hospitality, and stewardship matters.
- Clergy rate their effectiveness relatively high in preaching, worship leadership, pastoral care, and knowledge of the Bible and theology. They do not give themselves high ratings in handling conflict, stewardship, work as change agents, evangelism and church growth, or dealing with sexuality issues.
- Clergy have a close connection with their districts but do not feel as connected with church entities beyond the local level.
- The majority of pastors felt that ministry has been a blessing to their lives, but a significant minority note that it has not been a blessing to their spouses or children.
- Most rate their physical health as good or excellent, but a significant number do not exercise on a regular basis and do not have the healthiest eating habits.
- The SPE program has had a positive impact on those who participated in the two tracks (Vital Pastors and Advanced Foundations of Church Leadership) and on the denomination as a whole.
The academy, Bethany Seminary, Office of Ministry, districts, denominational agencies, and groups of pastors will review and discuss the Study Project to determine future direction and programing for addressing pastoral needs and continuing education.
Contact director Julie M. Hostetter at hosteju@bethanyseminary.edu to share feedback and suggestions as the academy continues its work to support pastors.
-- Julie M. Hostetter is director of the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership. This article first appeared in the academy's newsletter "The Scroll."
Source: 8/13/2009 Newsline
Children's Disaster Services updates its training curriculum.
Children's Disaster Services (CDS) has updated the workshop and curriculum used to train its volunteers. CDS is a ministry of the Church of the Brethren serving children and families following disasters.
"It started with a gathering of experienced trainers, where we discussed the workshop, its vital concepts, and updates that were needed," reported associate director Judy Bezon. Training materials were enhanced through consultation with Kathy Fry-Miller, a CDS volunteer who writes curriculum and trains child care givers professionally. The result is a workshop that has both an instructor's and a participant's manual, and an updated "look."
The updated curriculum is designed to be easier for instructors to present, offering a selection of activities to tailor a training workshop to individual teaching styles while ensuring that participants receive a standardized curriculum and learn the things they need to know to work with children after a disaster.
"We then tested the new curriculum to see what worked well and what needed to be changed
before it was finalized," Bezon reported. The updated curriculum was tested at workshops in March and April, one in La Verne, Calif., presented by Sharon Gilbert and Gloria Cooper; and the other in Fort Wayne, Ind., presented by Kathy Fry-Miller and John Kinsel. "As a result of these workshops, we found things that needed to be fixed--places where the instructor's and participant's manuals could be clearer, and additional ideas that would enhance the workshop. These ideas are being incorporated into the final version of the curriculum," Bezon reported.
Two "Train the Trainers" workshops are being held in August at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. The three-day workshops will cover principles of adult education, the revised curriculum and its presentation, and the basics of using PowerPoint slides to enhance instruction. For more information contact Children's Disaster Services at 800-451-4407 ext. 5.
Source: 8/13/2009 Newsline
Children's Disaster Services (CDS) has updated the workshop and curriculum used to train its volunteers. CDS is a ministry of the Church of the Brethren serving children and families following disasters.
"It started with a gathering of experienced trainers, where we discussed the workshop, its vital concepts, and updates that were needed," reported associate director Judy Bezon. Training materials were enhanced through consultation with Kathy Fry-Miller, a CDS volunteer who writes curriculum and trains child care givers professionally. The result is a workshop that has both an instructor's and a participant's manual, and an updated "look."
The updated curriculum is designed to be easier for instructors to present, offering a selection of activities to tailor a training workshop to individual teaching styles while ensuring that participants receive a standardized curriculum and learn the things they need to know to work with children after a disaster.
"We then tested the new curriculum to see what worked well and what needed to be changed
before it was finalized," Bezon reported. The updated curriculum was tested at workshops in March and April, one in La Verne, Calif., presented by Sharon Gilbert and Gloria Cooper; and the other in Fort Wayne, Ind., presented by Kathy Fry-Miller and John Kinsel. "As a result of these workshops, we found things that needed to be fixed--places where the instructor's and participant's manuals could be clearer, and additional ideas that would enhance the workshop. These ideas are being incorporated into the final version of the curriculum," Bezon reported.
Two "Train the Trainers" workshops are being held in August at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. The three-day workshops will cover principles of adult education, the revised curriculum and its presentation, and the basics of using PowerPoint slides to enhance instruction. For more information contact Children's Disaster Services at 800-451-4407 ext. 5.
Source: 8/13/2009 Newsline
Southeastern District Conference called to be 'Beam of Hope.'
Southeastern District Conference was held on July 24-26 at Mars Hill (N.C.) College. The theme from moderator Jeff Jones was, "The Church: Called to be the Beam of Hope." Throughout the conference there was the opportunity for individuals to share their favorite scriptures and how God has used those scriptures in their lives.
The business session started at 2 p.m. on Friday, July 24, with reports from agencies and district commission reports, along with a pastor recognition, and other reports. A presentation was given on how to make camps and churches a "Safe Place." The $91,617 budget was approved.
Jim Hardenbrook, a former moderator of the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference, delivered the messages for worship on Friday evening and Sunday morning, along with the messages for the pastors and spouses noon lunch, and the youth gathering.
The 35 youth led the worship service on Saturday evening, July 25, with the message of "God's Gift to Us, Jesus," presented by mime ministry. After the youth worship time, ice cream and cake were served to recognize all those who volunteer their time for the district's camping ministry.
The 2010 district conference moderator John Markwood shared that the theme for next year will be, "For God so Loved..." (John 3:16). Randy Clark, pastor of Brummetts Creek Church of the Brethren in Green Mountain, N.C., was called as moderator-elect.
-- Martha Roudebush is district co-executive minister for Southeastern District.
Source: 8/13/2009 Newsline
Southeastern District Conference was held on July 24-26 at Mars Hill (N.C.) College. The theme from moderator Jeff Jones was, "The Church: Called to be the Beam of Hope." Throughout the conference there was the opportunity for individuals to share their favorite scriptures and how God has used those scriptures in their lives.
The business session started at 2 p.m. on Friday, July 24, with reports from agencies and district commission reports, along with a pastor recognition, and other reports. A presentation was given on how to make camps and churches a "Safe Place." The $91,617 budget was approved.
Jim Hardenbrook, a former moderator of the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference, delivered the messages for worship on Friday evening and Sunday morning, along with the messages for the pastors and spouses noon lunch, and the youth gathering.
The 35 youth led the worship service on Saturday evening, July 25, with the message of "God's Gift to Us, Jesus," presented by mime ministry. After the youth worship time, ice cream and cake were served to recognize all those who volunteer their time for the district's camping ministry.
The 2010 district conference moderator John Markwood shared that the theme for next year will be, "For God so Loved..." (John 3:16). Randy Clark, pastor of Brummetts Creek Church of the Brethren in Green Mountain, N.C., was called as moderator-elect.
-- Martha Roudebush is district co-executive minister for Southeastern District.
Source: 8/13/2009 Newsline
Becky Ullom to direct Youth and Young Adult Ministry.
Becky Ullom will begin as director of the Church of the Brethren's Youth and Young Adult Ministry on Aug. 31. She currently serves as director of Identity and Relations, where she is responsible for the denominational website and a range of other communication tasks for the church.
"Ullom brings a passion for young people, organizational acumen, visionary leadership, a history of ministering with Brethren youth, and strong skills in group process," according to an announcement of the appointment. Jonathan Shively, executive director for Congregational Life Ministries, commented, "As a native of young adult culture and an enthusiastic ambassador for vital youth and young adult ministries, Becky will lead us collaboratively and competently into a new and dynamic future with young people, and she will be a valuable addition to the staff of Congregational Life Ministries."
Previously, Ullom has served as coordinator of National Young Adult Conference in 2003-04, and one of the coordinators of National Youth Conference in 2001-02. She also has taught high school English. She has served in several ecumenical settings, including as a young adult steward with the World Council of Churches and as a Church of the Brethren delegate to the National Council of Churches. She holds degrees from McPherson (Kan.) College in English and Spanish, and English as a Second Language.
Source: 8/13/2009 Newsline
Becky Ullom will begin as director of the Church of the Brethren's Youth and Young Adult Ministry on Aug. 31. She currently serves as director of Identity and Relations, where she is responsible for the denominational website and a range of other communication tasks for the church.
"Ullom brings a passion for young people, organizational acumen, visionary leadership, a history of ministering with Brethren youth, and strong skills in group process," according to an announcement of the appointment. Jonathan Shively, executive director for Congregational Life Ministries, commented, "As a native of young adult culture and an enthusiastic ambassador for vital youth and young adult ministries, Becky will lead us collaboratively and competently into a new and dynamic future with young people, and she will be a valuable addition to the staff of Congregational Life Ministries."
Previously, Ullom has served as coordinator of National Young Adult Conference in 2003-04, and one of the coordinators of National Youth Conference in 2001-02. She also has taught high school English. She has served in several ecumenical settings, including as a young adult steward with the World Council of Churches and as a Church of the Brethren delegate to the National Council of Churches. She holds degrees from McPherson (Kan.) College in English and Spanish, and English as a Second Language.
Source: 8/13/2009 Newsline
Nigeria Workcamp registration is now open.
A team of volunteers will travel to Nigeria from Jan. 9-30 next year as part of an annual Nigeria Workcamp. Workcampers will worship, learn, create relationships, and work with Christians from Ekklesiyar Yan'uwa a Nigeria (EYN--the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria) and with team members from Mission 21 in Switzerland. The group will work in Kwarhi, tour Kulp Bible College and Hillcrest School and other schools, and visit Yankari Game Reserve, the premier game reserve in Nigeria.
Cost will be $2,200 per person, which includes a round-trip flight to Nigeria, in-country meals, lodging, transportation, and overseas travel insurance. A deposit of $200 is required with registration. The workcamp experience is open to participants age 18 or older, those 14-17 years of age are able to participate if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who is participating in the workcamp. Requirements for participation also include a passport valid for at least 6 months after the workcamp, and up-to-date vaccinations for Nigeria as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control.
Applications and personal reference forms are due by Oct. 9, 2009. Global Mission Partnerships, a ministry of the Church of the Brethren, reserves the right to make the final decision regarding acceptance into the Nigeria Workcamp. Go to www.brethren.org/site/PageServer?pagename=go_places_serve_nigeria_workcamp to download the forms. For more information contact mission@brethren.org or 800-323-8039.
Source: 8/13/2009 Newsline
A team of volunteers will travel to Nigeria from Jan. 9-30 next year as part of an annual Nigeria Workcamp. Workcampers will worship, learn, create relationships, and work with Christians from Ekklesiyar Yan'uwa a Nigeria (EYN--the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria) and with team members from Mission 21 in Switzerland. The group will work in Kwarhi, tour Kulp Bible College and Hillcrest School and other schools, and visit Yankari Game Reserve, the premier game reserve in Nigeria.
Cost will be $2,200 per person, which includes a round-trip flight to Nigeria, in-country meals, lodging, transportation, and overseas travel insurance. A deposit of $200 is required with registration. The workcamp experience is open to participants age 18 or older, those 14-17 years of age are able to participate if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who is participating in the workcamp. Requirements for participation also include a passport valid for at least 6 months after the workcamp, and up-to-date vaccinations for Nigeria as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control.
Applications and personal reference forms are due by Oct. 9, 2009. Global Mission Partnerships, a ministry of the Church of the Brethren, reserves the right to make the final decision regarding acceptance into the Nigeria Workcamp. Go to www.brethren.org/site/PageServer?pagename=go_places_serve_nigeria_workcamp to download the forms. For more information contact mission@brethren.org or 800-323-8039.
Source: 8/13/2009 Newsline
What if Jesus met Gandhi at a youth group in Pennsylvania?
What if Jesus met Gandhi? At a youth group? In Pennsylvania? It would be Agape-Satyagraha!
Young people do not need to read the "Wall Street Journal" to know that society is dealing with a deepening economic depression. They get the news at home by reading the anxiety of their parents. And it trickles down! Internalizing this, some kids begin to lash out in anger or turn to bullying at school. Others seek a sense of belonging and safety by joining gangs.
Where do kids go to be safe? How can they feel safe amid this stress? When do they learn to deal with anger?
In Harrisburg, Pa., it is at the Agape-Satyagraha program initiated by Brethren Community Ministries, a program of First Church of the Brethren with leadership from Gerald Rhoades, who serves on the church's pastoral team. On Earth Peace recently began partnering with the ministry, and hopes to help other congregations across the denomination replicate it in their own communities.
What is Agape-Satyagraha? The word agape is a Greek word used in the New Testament to describe the love Jesus commanded that his followers have for one another. Satyagraha is a Sanskrit word popularized by Mahatma Gandhi to describe nonviolent resistance that supports justice without eliminating the oppressor.
The program in Harrisburg teaches youth how to recognize and respond to their own feelings, how to respond to others in positive ways other than violence, and how to turn the other cheek. Agape-Satyagraha offers a five-level peace training equipping youth with skills for daily life and long-term development as community leaders.
Adults call this conflict resolution and transformation skills. But Agape-Satyagraha sounds way cooler! It is making peace hip (and hop) for a new generation, offering hope for youth during this economic downturn.
The Shumaker Family Foundation has made a challenge grant of $12,500 to On Earth Peace to support the Agape-Satyagraha program. For more information go to www.onearthpeace.org. Congregations interested in becoming a pilot site of Agape-Satyagraha are invited to contact Marie Rhoades at peace-ed@onearthpeace.org or 717-867-1902.
-- Gimbiya Kettering serves as communications staff for On Earth Peace.
Source: 8/13/2009 Newsline
What if Jesus met Gandhi? At a youth group? In Pennsylvania? It would be Agape-Satyagraha!
Young people do not need to read the "Wall Street Journal" to know that society is dealing with a deepening economic depression. They get the news at home by reading the anxiety of their parents. And it trickles down! Internalizing this, some kids begin to lash out in anger or turn to bullying at school. Others seek a sense of belonging and safety by joining gangs.
Where do kids go to be safe? How can they feel safe amid this stress? When do they learn to deal with anger?
In Harrisburg, Pa., it is at the Agape-Satyagraha program initiated by Brethren Community Ministries, a program of First Church of the Brethren with leadership from Gerald Rhoades, who serves on the church's pastoral team. On Earth Peace recently began partnering with the ministry, and hopes to help other congregations across the denomination replicate it in their own communities.
What is Agape-Satyagraha? The word agape is a Greek word used in the New Testament to describe the love Jesus commanded that his followers have for one another. Satyagraha is a Sanskrit word popularized by Mahatma Gandhi to describe nonviolent resistance that supports justice without eliminating the oppressor.
The program in Harrisburg teaches youth how to recognize and respond to their own feelings, how to respond to others in positive ways other than violence, and how to turn the other cheek. Agape-Satyagraha offers a five-level peace training equipping youth with skills for daily life and long-term development as community leaders.
Adults call this conflict resolution and transformation skills. But Agape-Satyagraha sounds way cooler! It is making peace hip (and hop) for a new generation, offering hope for youth during this economic downturn.
The Shumaker Family Foundation has made a challenge grant of $12,500 to On Earth Peace to support the Agape-Satyagraha program. For more information go to www.onearthpeace.org. Congregations interested in becoming a pilot site of Agape-Satyagraha are invited to contact Marie Rhoades at peace-ed@onearthpeace.org or 717-867-1902.
-- Gimbiya Kettering serves as communications staff for On Earth Peace.
Source: 8/13/2009 Newsline
Brethren bits:
- Remembrance: Ernest W. Lefever, 89, died on July 29 at a Church of the Brethren retirement center in New Oxford, Pa. Known for the controversy in 1981 over his nomination for assistant secretary of human rights under President Ronald Reagan, he was an ordained minister in the Church of the Brethren from 1941 or 1942 through 1979. He grew up in a Brethren family in York, Pa., attended Elizabethtown (Pa.) College, was ordained in York (Pa.) First Church of the Brethren, and attended Bethany Theological Seminary for one year before going on to earn a degree from Yale Divinity School in 1945. As a young man, he volunteered with the anti-war and civil rights activist A.J. Muste, who was a leader in the Fellowship of Reconciliation. Lefever worked with Brethren Service following World War II, helping direct the YMCA War Prisoners' Aid program in England and Germany from about 1945-48. During that time he also was a regular correspondent for the Religious News Service, which reported in an interview in 1988 that "exposure to the results of Nazism and the rise of Communist tyranny in places like Hungary and East Germany shattered his pacifist outlook and turned him into what he now describes as a 'morally concerned realist'...." During the varied and complicated career that followed, Lefever was an international affairs specialist with the National Council of Churches, a staff consultant on foreign affairs to Sen. Hubert Humphrey, a senior researcher at the Brookings Institute, and founded the Ethics and Public Policy Center in 1976, described as a conservative think tank in his obituary in "The Washington Post" (go to http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/07/29/AR2009072903413.html?sub=AR ). He became a critic of the ecumenical movement and the civil rights movement, and critiqued the social activism of liberal mainline denominations. However, in a 1996 letter to "Messenger" magazine, Lefever described himself as "a grateful beneficiary of my Brethren heritage," and remembered his five summers as a youth participating in Brethren workcamps ranging from Pennsylvania to Yakima County, Wash. An article he wrote that year for "The American Enterprise" titled "Charity During the Great Depression" looked back at his childhood and his experiences of Brethren parents who share their limited resources with the needy. He quoted his mother's teaching, "We are put on earth to help others."
- Personnel notes:
- Jonathan L. Reed has been appointed interim dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of LaVerne, Calif. He has been professor of religion at the university since 1993, and is an authority on Mediterranean and early Christian archaeology.
- Emily Cleer has resigned as administrative assistant for Illinois and Wisconsin District, as of Aug. 7. She began her work with the district in April 2008, having brought a rich background of administrative and clerical skills to the position. She and her family live in rural Canton, Ill.
- On Aug. 14, Jay Irrizarry is completing a two-year Brethren Volunteer Service assignment working for the Church of the Brethren's Information Services department at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. He begins a new BVS assignment in Wichita, Kan., in mid-September.
- Sam Cupp has begun work as Youth Ministry assistant in Shenandoah District. He is a freshman at Bridgewater (Va.) College and has been an active member of the District Youth Council and served on the district's Youth Heritage Team in 2007-08.
- Jonathan L. Reed has been appointed interim dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of LaVerne, Calif. He has been professor of religion at the university since 1993, and is an authority on Mediterranean and early Christian archaeology.
- Job opening:
- The Church of the Brethren seeks candidates for the position of director of Identity and Relations. The director of Identity and Relations communicates the mission and ministry of the Church of the Brethren to those affiliated with the church and to those outside who seek information about the church. A major responsibility is oversight of the denominational website at www.brethren.org. This person is also responsible for annual reports, connections with district conferences, and meeting other communication needs. Candidates should have proven experience in communications and website development; have a deep understanding of the Church of the Brethren and be an active member of the church; bring experience with the denominational scope of the church's life and work; have superior skills in writing, editing, and public speaking; and have the technical and relational skills to manage a complex website and collaborate with others. This position, located at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., is part of the Brethren Press communication team and reports to the publisher of Brethren Press. Applications will be received immediately and will be considered until the position is filled. Request a position description and an application from Karin Krog, Office of Human Resources, at kkrog@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 258.
- Nine people participated in the Training in Ministry (TRIM) and Education for Shared Ministry (EFSM) Orientation on July 13-16 at Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Ind: Kim Beares from Mid-Atlantic District, Bill Fisher and Shawn Tanner from Virlina District, David McDaniel from Shenandoah District, Thomas Prager and Randy Short from Michigan District, Susan Price from Pacific Southwest District, Mary Beth Tuttle from Western Plains District, and David Young from South-Central Indiana District.
- Brethren Revival Fellowship and Brethren Volunteer Service are sponsoring their annual joint volunteer orientation at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., on Aug. 16-26. The group is expected to include 15 volunteers.
- A Heifer International and Church of the Brethren study tour of Armenia and Georgia has been canceled because not enough participants have registered to take part. The study tour had been planned for this fall.
- Resources to aid people of faith during the national debate on health care reform are being made available by the National Council of Churches (NCC). "As children of God, created in the image of God, adequate health care is a matter of preserving what our gracious God made," said a release from the NCC. "From the middle class to those most in need, we are feeling the health care crunch. Insurance premiums have doubled in the past 10 years. And our uninsured neighbors have it even worse as they struggle to get by without the care they need." The NCC is offering a conference call and webcast on healthcare reform with President Obama, hosted by leaders in the faith community, on Aug. 19 at 5 p.m. (Eastern time) (dial 347-996-5501, no passcode, long-distance charges may apply; or log on to http://faithforhealth.org/). The NCC also has posted online resources including a pastoral letter and call to action for health care reform at www.ncccusa.org/healthcare.
- Spruce Run Church of the Brethren near Lindside, W.Va., celebrated its 180th anniversary at a Homecoming Service on Sunday, July 19. The two-hour worship service featured special music and a historical presentation, and was followed by a meal and an afternoon musical program.
- Crab Orchard (W.Va.) Church of the Brethren is dedicating additions to its sanctuary on Sunday, Aug. 23, at 11 a.m. The congregation recently had its baptismal backdrop refurbished. The backdrop was painted by noted Brethren artist Medford Neher during World War II, illustrating Jesus' baptism and the descending dove. According to a note in the Virlina District newsletter, "Although Neher did work for over 100 congregations, he is best known for a mural on 12 panels displayed in the Quinter-Miller Auditorium at Camp Alexander Mack in Milford, Ind.... His painting at Crab Orchard was created during a series of revival meetings which he held for the congregation and as an object lesson to the youth and children of the church."
- Rockford (Ill.) Church of the Brethren is selling its property and seeking a new location and mission to continue its fellowship as a Church of the Brethren, according to a notice in the Illinois and Wisconsin District newsletter.
- A re-chartering service will be held on Sunday, Aug. 16, at 4 p.m., for Masons Cove Church of the Brethren in Salem, Va. In February last year the Virlina District Board took action to disorganize the congregation, and then with a small body of individuals reorganized the Masons Cove Church with a commitment to being the Church of the Brethren, according to an announcement in the district newsletter. "They have worked to heal, grow, and be Christ's Church," the newsletter said.
- Western Plains District has announced a new location for its district office. The district office has moved to the Miller Library on the campus of McPherson (Kan.) College. Following is contact information for the Western Plains District: P.O. Box 394, 1600 E. Euclid, McPherson, KS 67460; wpdcb@sbcglobal.net or 620-241-4240.
- The Western Plains District Conference held in McPherson, Kan., on July 31-Aug. 2 recognized several "Milestones in Ministry." Recognized for 65 years in ministry (since 1944) were Dean L. Farringer, Merlin L. Frantz, and Charles J. Whitacre. Others recognized for significant years of service included Lyall R. Sherred for 50 years; John J. Carlson for 40 years; Francis Hendricks and Jean M Hendricks for 30 years; C. Edwina Pote for 20 years; Stephen L. Klinedinst for 15 years; and Sonja P. Griffith, Lisa L. Hazen, and Thomas H. Smith for 10 years.
- The Bridgewater College Alumni Choir will present a concert at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 16, at Bridgewater (Va.) Church of the Brethren. The Alumni Choir was co-founded by Jesse Hopkins, Edwin L. Turner Distinguished Professor of Music at Bridgewater College, and Jonathan Emmons, a 2005 graduate. In addition to his duties at the college, Hopkins served as music director at the Bridgewater Church for many years. Emmons earned a master of music degree in choral conducting from the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, and is director of choirs and college organist at Wesley College in Dover, Del. Both musicians have helped lead music for the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference. The concert is open to the public at no charge.
- Camp Pine Lake in Northern Plains District, near Eldora, Iowa, suffered some damage in an Aug. 9 wind and hail storm. Camp Board chair Kirby Leland reported in the district newsletter that "the Pine Lake area, including the town of Eldora, was hit hard with hail as large as baseball size and winds strong enough to do severe damage to mature trees.... The good news is that there were no injuries sustained from the wind and hail. We can be thankful there was not a camp going on with children on site." Several trees were destroyed on the camp property, two vehicles and the camp pick-up trick suffered some damage, some windows and doors were broken or damaged, and the camp lost power for a time. A number of volunteers from the district and camp counselors from the Reformed Church helped do clean up.
- The August edition of "Brethren Voices," a community television program produced by Portland (Ore.) Peace Church of the Brethren, features Tom Benevento of the New Community Project. Benevento works out of Harrisonburg, Va., where he gives a video tour of a Sustainable Living Homestead. Viewers are treated to the workings of a greenhouse that can be built for $100, and an explanation of how Benevento is turning the homestead into a demonstration of sustainable living with landscaping that is truly edible and food producing. The New Community Project is a nonprofit related to the Church of the Brethren. In September, "Brethren Voices" will feature 87-year-old Paul Libby, a Seagoing Cowboy who tells his story of delivering heifers to Poland following World War II. For more information about Brethren Voices, contact Ed Groff, producer, at Groffprod1@msn.com.
- A quartet from Peoria (Ill.) Church of the Brethren sang the National Anthem for a recent Peoria Chief's baseball game. The quartet included Penelope Garrison, Vicki Matheny, Dan Boulton, and Russel Boulton.
- Gay Mercer of Mack Memorial Church of the Brethren in Dayton, Ohio, has been an architect for a home makeover in Beavercreek, Ohio, as part of the television show "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition."
Credits
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren, cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. Francie Coale, Mary K. Heatwole, Karin Krog, Jonathan Shively contributed to this report.
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren, cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. Francie Coale, Mary K. Heatwole, Karin Krog, Jonathan Shively contributed to this report.
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