Stephen Mason will direct the Brethren Foundation.
Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT) has announced the appointment of Stephen O. Mason as director of the Brethren Foundation, Inc. In addition to the foundation, Mason will assume the responsibilities of director of Investments for BBT.
Mason will work closely with Darryl Deardorff, BBT’s chief financial officer, to phase into the investment work over the next two to three years.
He brings extensive experience in institutional advancement focusing on gift development and administration. Most recently Mason has served as executive director of the Community Foundation of Wabash County, Ind. Previous work in the Church of the Brethren has included positions as executive director of the Association of Brethren Caregivers, vice president for Financial Services and director of Development at McPherson (Kan.) College, and vice president for College Advancement at Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind.
Mason will begin with BBT on or about Nov. 1, working out of the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill.
Source: 8/31/2006 Newsline
top
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Brethren are invited to Counter-Recruitment Conference.
A Counter-Recruitment Conference sponsored by Mennonite Central Committee US (MCC US) will be held in San Antonio, Texas, on Nov. 3-5. On Earth Peace is planning a delegation from Church of the Brethren congregations, led by Matt Guynn, coordinator of Peace Witness.
"This is an open invitation event which a group of Mennonites who are mostly people of color have had the major hand in planning," reported Guynn. “The conference is going to be a special opportunity to worship, share, learn, and plan together as we prepare to respond actively to the impact of military recruitment on communities.”
The conference will bring together youth and adults from communities heavily targeted by military recruitment. It was inspired by the Anabaptist Consultation that took place at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., in March 2005, which focused on the potential for military conscription.
"Given the strong military recruitment efforts in communities burdened by poverty and racism, a people-of-color caucus at the (March 2005) consultation issued a strong call for a conference focusing on military recruitment," said the announcement of the event from MCC US.
The event is planned for youth and young adults, youth sponsors, Sunday school teachers, pastors and youth pastors, district and conference youth ministers, peace committee members, school teachers, and guidance counselors. Organizers hope to equip congregations to help youth find meaningful nonmilitary opportunities for education, job training, employment, and leadership development; network and share resources and strategies for outreach in schools and other public settings; and ground the work of counter recruitment in commitment to Christ's way of peace and reconciliation through worship and biblical study.
Register and get more information at www.mcc.org/us/co/counter/conference. To attend as part of the Brethren delegation, contact Guynn at mattguynn@earthlink.net or 765-962-6234.
A truth-in-recruiting organizing and outreach packet is now available from On Earth Peace, including a 10-minute DVD to be used as a conversation starter related to questions of military recruitment. The packet will be useful for Sunday school classes and youth groups. For more information go to the On Earth Peace website www.brethren.org/oepa/CounterRecruitment.html.
Source: 8/31/2006 Newsline
top
A Counter-Recruitment Conference sponsored by Mennonite Central Committee US (MCC US) will be held in San Antonio, Texas, on Nov. 3-5. On Earth Peace is planning a delegation from Church of the Brethren congregations, led by Matt Guynn, coordinator of Peace Witness.
"This is an open invitation event which a group of Mennonites who are mostly people of color have had the major hand in planning," reported Guynn. “The conference is going to be a special opportunity to worship, share, learn, and plan together as we prepare to respond actively to the impact of military recruitment on communities.”
The conference will bring together youth and adults from communities heavily targeted by military recruitment. It was inspired by the Anabaptist Consultation that took place at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., in March 2005, which focused on the potential for military conscription.
"Given the strong military recruitment efforts in communities burdened by poverty and racism, a people-of-color caucus at the (March 2005) consultation issued a strong call for a conference focusing on military recruitment," said the announcement of the event from MCC US.
The event is planned for youth and young adults, youth sponsors, Sunday school teachers, pastors and youth pastors, district and conference youth ministers, peace committee members, school teachers, and guidance counselors. Organizers hope to equip congregations to help youth find meaningful nonmilitary opportunities for education, job training, employment, and leadership development; network and share resources and strategies for outreach in schools and other public settings; and ground the work of counter recruitment in commitment to Christ's way of peace and reconciliation through worship and biblical study.
Register and get more information at www.mcc.org/us/co/counter/conference. To attend as part of the Brethren delegation, contact Guynn at mattguynn@earthlink.net or 765-962-6234.
A truth-in-recruiting organizing and outreach packet is now available from On Earth Peace, including a 10-minute DVD to be used as a conversation starter related to questions of military recruitment. The packet will be useful for Sunday school classes and youth groups. For more information go to the On Earth Peace website www.brethren.org/oepa/CounterRecruitment.html.
Source: 8/31/2006 Newsline
top
Credits
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board. Contact the editor at cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. Annie Clark, Janice England, Lerry Fogle, Jeri S. Kornegay, Dale Minnich, Wilfred E. Nolen, and Loretta Wolf contributed to this report.
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board. Contact the editor at cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. Annie Clark, Janice England, Lerry Fogle, Jeri S. Kornegay, Dale Minnich, Wilfred E. Nolen, and Loretta Wolf contributed to this report.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
NEWS
- Denominational membership declines by largest amount in five years.
- Brethren cooperate in Peace Church Longterm Care Insurance.
- Caregiving award winners honored by Association of Brethren Caregivers.
- Grants go to Lebanon crisis, Katrina rebuilding, hunger in Guatemala.
- Western Plains District Conference sees signs of transformation.
- Southeastern District holds 38th annual district conference.
- Brethren bits: Personnel, Annual Conference office move, and more.
- New speaker announced for National Older Adult Conference.
- Bethany Seminary to host discernment retreat.
Denominational membership declines by largest amount in five years.
Church of the Brethren membership declined by the largest amount in five years in 2005, down 1,861 members or 1.42 percent. Total reported denominational membership fell under 130,000 for the first time since the 1920s. Denominational membership has been on a steady decline since the early 1960s, as it has been for most “mainline” denominations in the US.
Membership for the denomination in the US and Puerto Rico at the end of 2005 stood at 129,340 according to figures collected by the “Church of the Brethren Yearbook” published by Brethren Press. The figure does not include Church of the Brethren membership in other countries including Nigeria, Brazil, India, the Dominican Republic, and Haiti. The Nigerian church reported a membership of about 160,000 earlier this year.
Fifteen of the 23 US districts reported membership declines last year, one (Oregon/Washington) reported no change, and seven reported membership increases.
Atlantic Southeast District had the largest percentage increase, up 2.66 percent with a net gain of 52 members. Atlantic Northeast, already the largest district, grew larger with the largest numerical gain last year. It reported an increase of 101 members (.68 percent), for a total of 14,947.
The largest numerical and percentage decrease came from Pacific Southwest District, down 472 members or 16.38 percent. Missouri/Arkansas District dropped 12.79 percent, a loss of 82 members, moving it behind Idaho to become the denomination’s smallest district. Three other districts--South/Central Indiana, Michigan, and West Marva-had declines of 3.75 percent or more.
The number of full congregations fell by nine, but there were four new fellowships and four new projects welcomed during the year. Total reported average weekly worship attendance dropped by nearly 2,500 people from the year before, to 65,143. And the number of baptisms was at its lowest level in recent history, with just 1,660 reported. A total of 1,955 baptisms were reported in 2004 and 2,923 in 2003.
Updated “Yearbook” figures are based on data provided by congregations that turn in statistical reports. In 2005, 69 percent of the congregations reported, a fairly consistent response to previous years; 71 percent reported in 2004.
The “Yearbook” also lists contact information and statistics for congregations, districts, and agencies of the denomination, as well as related Brethren organizations. The 2006 edition is available from Brethren Press; to order call 800-441-3712.
Source: 8/16/2006 Newsline
top
Church of the Brethren membership declined by the largest amount in five years in 2005, down 1,861 members or 1.42 percent. Total reported denominational membership fell under 130,000 for the first time since the 1920s. Denominational membership has been on a steady decline since the early 1960s, as it has been for most “mainline” denominations in the US.
Membership for the denomination in the US and Puerto Rico at the end of 2005 stood at 129,340 according to figures collected by the “Church of the Brethren Yearbook” published by Brethren Press. The figure does not include Church of the Brethren membership in other countries including Nigeria, Brazil, India, the Dominican Republic, and Haiti. The Nigerian church reported a membership of about 160,000 earlier this year.
Fifteen of the 23 US districts reported membership declines last year, one (Oregon/Washington) reported no change, and seven reported membership increases.
Atlantic Southeast District had the largest percentage increase, up 2.66 percent with a net gain of 52 members. Atlantic Northeast, already the largest district, grew larger with the largest numerical gain last year. It reported an increase of 101 members (.68 percent), for a total of 14,947.
The largest numerical and percentage decrease came from Pacific Southwest District, down 472 members or 16.38 percent. Missouri/Arkansas District dropped 12.79 percent, a loss of 82 members, moving it behind Idaho to become the denomination’s smallest district. Three other districts--South/Central Indiana, Michigan, and West Marva-had declines of 3.75 percent or more.
The number of full congregations fell by nine, but there were four new fellowships and four new projects welcomed during the year. Total reported average weekly worship attendance dropped by nearly 2,500 people from the year before, to 65,143. And the number of baptisms was at its lowest level in recent history, with just 1,660 reported. A total of 1,955 baptisms were reported in 2004 and 2,923 in 2003.
Updated “Yearbook” figures are based on data provided by congregations that turn in statistical reports. In 2005, 69 percent of the congregations reported, a fairly consistent response to previous years; 71 percent reported in 2004.
The “Yearbook” also lists contact information and statistics for congregations, districts, and agencies of the denomination, as well as related Brethren organizations. The 2006 edition is available from Brethren Press; to order call 800-441-3712.
Source: 8/16/2006 Newsline
top
Brethren cooperate in Peace Church Longterm Care Insurance.
A new Peace Church Longterm Care Insurance program is now available through the Fellowship of Brethren Homes, an organization of Church of the Brethren retirement centers, and the Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC). The new program addresses the problem of “uncompensated care” that is faced by the Brethren retirement facilities. For the last several years, more than $14 million annually has been spent by 18 of the 22 centers to care for older adults who no longer have the financial resources to pay for their own care.
“As our population and denomination continue to age, (the fastest-growing segment of the US population is the 80 and older group), the financial strain on our retirement facilities increases,” reported Don Fecher, director of the fellowship. It is unlikely that governmental funding for longterm care will increase, or that a legislative solution is even possible, Fecher said. “It is also unlikely that a Church of the Brethren facility will turn away a resident in need,” he added.
Through its ecumenical partnerships with the other historic peace churches--Mennonites and Friends--the fellowship is making it possible for anyone connected with the Church of the Brethren to take advantage of the Peace Church Longterm Care Insurance program. Anyone connected to the Church of the Brethren may participate along with their spouse, children ages 18 and older, parents, grandparents, siblings, in-laws, aunts, and uncles.
The program will pay benefits for longterm care services in a person’s home, assisted living facility, adult day care facility, or nursing home, and is available for Alzheimer’s/dementia coverage. The program is guaranteed renewable and offers tax quantified plans.
Currently, costs for assisted living facilities range from $900 to $3,000 per month depending on amenities provided and services required, according to ABC. Also, about 90 percent of the nation’s assisted living services are paid for with private funds, states the National Center for Assisted Living. The Health Insurance Association of America reports that the national average for a year in a nursing home is estimated to cost more than $46,000, and in some areas can easily cost twice that amount.
“The costs of longterm care may present the greatest threat to financial security during a person’s retirement years,” Fecher said. “Longterm care insurance is also appropriate for the working age person to protect against illnesses, disabilities, or injuries from automobile or sporting accidents. HMOs and traditional health insurance policies generally do not pay for long-term care services.”
To find out more about the program or to request cost estimates contact the administering organization, Senior Ministries Insurance Alliance of Harrisburg, Pa., at 800-382-1352.
Source: 8/16/2006 Newsline
top
A new Peace Church Longterm Care Insurance program is now available through the Fellowship of Brethren Homes, an organization of Church of the Brethren retirement centers, and the Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC). The new program addresses the problem of “uncompensated care” that is faced by the Brethren retirement facilities. For the last several years, more than $14 million annually has been spent by 18 of the 22 centers to care for older adults who no longer have the financial resources to pay for their own care.
“As our population and denomination continue to age, (the fastest-growing segment of the US population is the 80 and older group), the financial strain on our retirement facilities increases,” reported Don Fecher, director of the fellowship. It is unlikely that governmental funding for longterm care will increase, or that a legislative solution is even possible, Fecher said. “It is also unlikely that a Church of the Brethren facility will turn away a resident in need,” he added.
Through its ecumenical partnerships with the other historic peace churches--Mennonites and Friends--the fellowship is making it possible for anyone connected with the Church of the Brethren to take advantage of the Peace Church Longterm Care Insurance program. Anyone connected to the Church of the Brethren may participate along with their spouse, children ages 18 and older, parents, grandparents, siblings, in-laws, aunts, and uncles.
The program will pay benefits for longterm care services in a person’s home, assisted living facility, adult day care facility, or nursing home, and is available for Alzheimer’s/dementia coverage. The program is guaranteed renewable and offers tax quantified plans.
Currently, costs for assisted living facilities range from $900 to $3,000 per month depending on amenities provided and services required, according to ABC. Also, about 90 percent of the nation’s assisted living services are paid for with private funds, states the National Center for Assisted Living. The Health Insurance Association of America reports that the national average for a year in a nursing home is estimated to cost more than $46,000, and in some areas can easily cost twice that amount.
“The costs of longterm care may present the greatest threat to financial security during a person’s retirement years,” Fecher said. “Longterm care insurance is also appropriate for the working age person to protect against illnesses, disabilities, or injuries from automobile or sporting accidents. HMOs and traditional health insurance policies generally do not pay for long-term care services.”
To find out more about the program or to request cost estimates contact the administering organization, Senior Ministries Insurance Alliance of Harrisburg, Pa., at 800-382-1352.
Source: 8/16/2006 Newsline
top
Caregiving award winners honored by Association of Brethren Caregivers.
The Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC) recognized recipients of the agency’s annual caregiving awards during a reception July 3 at the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference in Des Moines, Iowa.
Retired pastor Chuck Boyer of La Verne, Calif., was recognized for a lifetime of caregiving. Throughout his ministry, he has advocated for peace and for those who were left at the margins in society and the church, ABC said. He has served the Church of the Brethren as director of Brethren Volunteer Service, peace consultant, pastor, and moderator of Annual Conference. During his time as peace consultant, Boyer focused on domestic peace concerns, action, and education. In 1988, he became senior pastor of La Verne Church of the Brethren, where he was active in housing and food projects, the formation of a new ministerium that supported women in ministerial roles, and compassionate caregiving for his congregation, especially those who felt excluded from the faith community.
Rodney E. Mason of Chambersburg, Pa., was recognized for his service as former CEO of Peter Becker Community, a Church of the Brethren retirement community in Harleysville, Pa. During his tenure Mason fostered ministry for and with elders in many ways, collaborating with the Indian Valley YMCA to bring a satellite to Peter Becker Community, working with other area care centers to provide services to seniors in the Harleysville community, and helping establish the Peace Church Risk Retention Group, a collaboration between the Church of the Brethren, Mennonites, and Friends. Mason resigned from Peter Becker in 2005 to become CEO of Menno Haven Retirement Communities.
ABC honored Disaster Child Care, a program of the Church of the Brethren General Board, for providing more than 25 years of caregiving for children and families during more than 175 disasters. The program has trained more than 2,500 volunteers who donate their time and services. Disaster Child Care began in 1980 and later became an ecumenical endeavor. The program is well respected and relied on by partner agencies such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the American Red Cross, and Church World Service. In 1998, it was designated as the official child-care service to assist the American Red Cross following a domestic aviation disaster and formed a specially trained group of volunteers for its “Critical Response Childcare Team.”
Papago Buttes Church of the Brethren in Scottsdale, Ariz., received the “Open Roof” award for its work on accessibility for people with disabilities. People with disabilities participate fully in the worship, activities, and leadership of the church, even though the congregation does not have a formal disabilities program. Papago Buttes has reached out with services and programs to members of a neighboring group home. Love Feast at the congregation includes hand washing for those with mobility issues, along with the traditional foot washing. Adults and children with disabilities are mainstreamed into Sunday school classes, with special training available for teachers when needed. The congregation’s new building was designed to be completely handicapped accessible. Now the congregation is beginning a new construction project, a handicapped accessible baptistery.
For more information about the Association of Brethren Caregivers go to www.brethren.org/abc.
Source: 8/16/2006 Newsline
top
The Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC) recognized recipients of the agency’s annual caregiving awards during a reception July 3 at the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference in Des Moines, Iowa.
Retired pastor Chuck Boyer of La Verne, Calif., was recognized for a lifetime of caregiving. Throughout his ministry, he has advocated for peace and for those who were left at the margins in society and the church, ABC said. He has served the Church of the Brethren as director of Brethren Volunteer Service, peace consultant, pastor, and moderator of Annual Conference. During his time as peace consultant, Boyer focused on domestic peace concerns, action, and education. In 1988, he became senior pastor of La Verne Church of the Brethren, where he was active in housing and food projects, the formation of a new ministerium that supported women in ministerial roles, and compassionate caregiving for his congregation, especially those who felt excluded from the faith community.
Rodney E. Mason of Chambersburg, Pa., was recognized for his service as former CEO of Peter Becker Community, a Church of the Brethren retirement community in Harleysville, Pa. During his tenure Mason fostered ministry for and with elders in many ways, collaborating with the Indian Valley YMCA to bring a satellite to Peter Becker Community, working with other area care centers to provide services to seniors in the Harleysville community, and helping establish the Peace Church Risk Retention Group, a collaboration between the Church of the Brethren, Mennonites, and Friends. Mason resigned from Peter Becker in 2005 to become CEO of Menno Haven Retirement Communities.
ABC honored Disaster Child Care, a program of the Church of the Brethren General Board, for providing more than 25 years of caregiving for children and families during more than 175 disasters. The program has trained more than 2,500 volunteers who donate their time and services. Disaster Child Care began in 1980 and later became an ecumenical endeavor. The program is well respected and relied on by partner agencies such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the American Red Cross, and Church World Service. In 1998, it was designated as the official child-care service to assist the American Red Cross following a domestic aviation disaster and formed a specially trained group of volunteers for its “Critical Response Childcare Team.”
Papago Buttes Church of the Brethren in Scottsdale, Ariz., received the “Open Roof” award for its work on accessibility for people with disabilities. People with disabilities participate fully in the worship, activities, and leadership of the church, even though the congregation does not have a formal disabilities program. Papago Buttes has reached out with services and programs to members of a neighboring group home. Love Feast at the congregation includes hand washing for those with mobility issues, along with the traditional foot washing. Adults and children with disabilities are mainstreamed into Sunday school classes, with special training available for teachers when needed. The congregation’s new building was designed to be completely handicapped accessible. Now the congregation is beginning a new construction project, a handicapped accessible baptistery.
For more information about the Association of Brethren Caregivers go to www.brethren.org/abc.
Source: 8/16/2006 Newsline
top
Grants go to Lebanon crisis, Katrina rebuilding, hunger in Guatemala.
Two funds of the Church of the Brethren General Board--the Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF), and the Global Food Crisis Fund--are giving a total of $68,555 in three grants for the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, rebuilding following Hurricane Katrina, and a hunger relief program in Guatemala.
The EDF has given a grant of $25,000 to support a Church World Service appeal for the humanitarian crisis created by the Israeli/Hezbollah war in Lebanon. The funds will help provide emergency supplies of food, water, bedding, medicine, and sanitation.
The fund also is granting $25,000 for Brethren Disaster Response to open a new rebuilding site in an area affected by Hurricane Katrina. The money will pay for the travel expenses, leadership training, food, and housing of volunteers working on the project, as well as additional tools and equipment and some building supplies.
In Guatemala, the Global Food Crisis Fund has allocated a grant of $18,555 from the Church of the Brethren Foods Resource Bank account to continue support of a hunger relief project in the Totonicapan region. This is the second year of a three year project to help increase food diversification through community greenhouse and patio gardening. Additionally, the project promotes appropriate technology, community organization, and food security.
Source: 8/16/2006 Newsline
top
Two funds of the Church of the Brethren General Board--the Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF), and the Global Food Crisis Fund--are giving a total of $68,555 in three grants for the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, rebuilding following Hurricane Katrina, and a hunger relief program in Guatemala.
The EDF has given a grant of $25,000 to support a Church World Service appeal for the humanitarian crisis created by the Israeli/Hezbollah war in Lebanon. The funds will help provide emergency supplies of food, water, bedding, medicine, and sanitation.
The fund also is granting $25,000 for Brethren Disaster Response to open a new rebuilding site in an area affected by Hurricane Katrina. The money will pay for the travel expenses, leadership training, food, and housing of volunteers working on the project, as well as additional tools and equipment and some building supplies.
In Guatemala, the Global Food Crisis Fund has allocated a grant of $18,555 from the Church of the Brethren Foods Resource Bank account to continue support of a hunger relief project in the Totonicapan region. This is the second year of a three year project to help increase food diversification through community greenhouse and patio gardening. Additionally, the project promotes appropriate technology, community organization, and food security.
Source: 8/16/2006 Newsline
top
Western Plains District Conference sees signs of transformation.
With a theme of “God’s Love Forever and Ever,” the Western Plains District Conference was convened by moderator LeRoy Weddle at McPherson (Kan.) Church of the Brethren and McPherson College. The conference had 272 registered attendees.
Jim Kinsey, Congregational Life Team staff of the General Board, was the theme speaker. Sandy Bosserman, executive minister for Missouri and Arkansas District, spoke at the minister and spouse dinner.
There was an emphasis on the congregational transformation movement that is permeating the district, reported district co-executive minister Elsie Holderread. Singing, worship, sharing of individual faith stories, and congregational stories of transformation were woven throughout the weekend. The presence of 30 youth, some coming directly from National Youth Conference in Fort Collins, Colo., was a positive influence. The renovation to the church added greatly to the quality and comfort of the conference, Holderread added.
In business sessions, the 73 delegates from 32 congregations passed a $194,000 district budget, approved a constitutional amendment, and elected eight new district board members and elected Sonja Griffith as moderator-elect.
A Projects Unlimited auction raised $4,416.25 to be divided between Heifer Project, Trees for Life, On Earth Peace, Disaster Child Care, Camp Colorado, Camp Mount Hermon, the Outdoor Ministries Association, the Western Plains District General Fund, McPherson College, the Lybrook Mission, and Darfur World Hunger. The district quilt sold for $1,000.
Next year’s district conference will be held at McPherson, Kan., July 27-29 with David Smalley as moderator.
Source: 8/16/2006 Newsline
top
With a theme of “God’s Love Forever and Ever,” the Western Plains District Conference was convened by moderator LeRoy Weddle at McPherson (Kan.) Church of the Brethren and McPherson College. The conference had 272 registered attendees.
Jim Kinsey, Congregational Life Team staff of the General Board, was the theme speaker. Sandy Bosserman, executive minister for Missouri and Arkansas District, spoke at the minister and spouse dinner.
There was an emphasis on the congregational transformation movement that is permeating the district, reported district co-executive minister Elsie Holderread. Singing, worship, sharing of individual faith stories, and congregational stories of transformation were woven throughout the weekend. The presence of 30 youth, some coming directly from National Youth Conference in Fort Collins, Colo., was a positive influence. The renovation to the church added greatly to the quality and comfort of the conference, Holderread added.
In business sessions, the 73 delegates from 32 congregations passed a $194,000 district budget, approved a constitutional amendment, and elected eight new district board members and elected Sonja Griffith as moderator-elect.
A Projects Unlimited auction raised $4,416.25 to be divided between Heifer Project, Trees for Life, On Earth Peace, Disaster Child Care, Camp Colorado, Camp Mount Hermon, the Outdoor Ministries Association, the Western Plains District General Fund, McPherson College, the Lybrook Mission, and Darfur World Hunger. The district quilt sold for $1,000.
Next year’s district conference will be held at McPherson, Kan., July 27-29 with David Smalley as moderator.
Source: 8/16/2006 Newsline
top
Southeastern District holds 38th annual district conference.
The 38th annual Southeastern District Conference on July 28-30 was led by moderator Jim Hoffman on the theme, “Together in God's Presence.” A total of 94 delegates represented 27 congregations, and a total of 167 people were in attendance. Prayer was given for the youth and leaders who were returning home from National Youth Conference in Colorado, said co-executive minister Martha Roudebush in her report from the meeting.
Keynote speaker pastor Gilbert Romero of Bella Vista Church of the Brethren in Los Angeles, presented challenging messages Friday evening and Sunday morning entitled "To His Presence We Will Go."
A 2007 district budget of $80,148 was passed including increasing the position of the co-executive ministers to three-quarter time. The delegate body approved and passed a new business item allowing His Way Fellowship to seek out and purchase a larger facility, and to sell the current property. They also approved and supported the new district ministry education program "School of Spiritual Leadership.”
In elections, Jeremy Dykes, youth pastor from Jackson Park Church of the Brethren in Jonesborough, Tenn., was called to be moderator-elect.
The district churches were thanked for giving $70,674 to the Disaster Katrina Fund. The conference received a that some of this fund is still being used to help with small town situations along the gulf coast in Alabama.
The Witness Commission also had challenged each church this past year to collect money for Heifer International. Several churches in the district participated, collecting a total of $25,506. The donations purchased several “arks” of animals, heifers, llamas, and many others. The district youth visited the Heifer Ranch in Arkansas on the way to National Youth Conference, and presented the check from the district.
A time was held during the business to have small group discussions as part of the denominational study process Together: Conversations on Being the Church. Discussion focused on the question, "What does it mean to be the church?" This was a very productive time of conversation, Roudebush reported. Saturday night’s insight session provided leadership training for individuals to lead their congregations in this conversation.
A quilt auction was held with proceeds going to the John M. Reed Home.
Roudebush said that the district faced a “unique situation” this year. “The parliamentarian was at National Youth Conference,” she said, “and the moderator-elect was also at NYC. Donna Shumate, who will be moderator in 2007, was in the hospital with a new baby boy.”
Source: 8/16/2006 Newsline
top
The 38th annual Southeastern District Conference on July 28-30 was led by moderator Jim Hoffman on the theme, “Together in God's Presence.” A total of 94 delegates represented 27 congregations, and a total of 167 people were in attendance. Prayer was given for the youth and leaders who were returning home from National Youth Conference in Colorado, said co-executive minister Martha Roudebush in her report from the meeting.
Keynote speaker pastor Gilbert Romero of Bella Vista Church of the Brethren in Los Angeles, presented challenging messages Friday evening and Sunday morning entitled "To His Presence We Will Go."
A 2007 district budget of $80,148 was passed including increasing the position of the co-executive ministers to three-quarter time. The delegate body approved and passed a new business item allowing His Way Fellowship to seek out and purchase a larger facility, and to sell the current property. They also approved and supported the new district ministry education program "School of Spiritual Leadership.”
In elections, Jeremy Dykes, youth pastor from Jackson Park Church of the Brethren in Jonesborough, Tenn., was called to be moderator-elect.
The district churches were thanked for giving $70,674 to the Disaster Katrina Fund. The conference received a that some of this fund is still being used to help with small town situations along the gulf coast in Alabama.
The Witness Commission also had challenged each church this past year to collect money for Heifer International. Several churches in the district participated, collecting a total of $25,506. The donations purchased several “arks” of animals, heifers, llamas, and many others. The district youth visited the Heifer Ranch in Arkansas on the way to National Youth Conference, and presented the check from the district.
A time was held during the business to have small group discussions as part of the denominational study process Together: Conversations on Being the Church. Discussion focused on the question, "What does it mean to be the church?" This was a very productive time of conversation, Roudebush reported. Saturday night’s insight session provided leadership training for individuals to lead their congregations in this conversation.
A quilt auction was held with proceeds going to the John M. Reed Home.
Roudebush said that the district faced a “unique situation” this year. “The parliamentarian was at National Youth Conference,” she said, “and the moderator-elect was also at NYC. Donna Shumate, who will be moderator in 2007, was in the hospital with a new baby boy.”
Source: 8/16/2006 Newsline
top
Brethren bits: Personnel, Annual Conference office move, and more.
top
- Ralph McFadden will serve as coordinator for the second Mission Alive conference, planned for April 13-15, 2007, filling a temporary, part-time position in the Global Mission Partnerships of the General Board. McFadden will coordinate a working committee to plan and implement the conference. He will work from the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., and from his home in Elgin. He has served in the Church of the Brethren as a pastor, district executive, and executive for Parish Ministries Commission of the General Board. Among his wide experience is coordinating the National Youth Conference in 1974. More recently he has been a part of the Association for Brethren Caregivers staff, and has served as chaplain for Hospice of Northeastern Illinois.
- As announced earlier this year, the Annual Conference Office relocates from the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., to the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., this month. The move takes place the week of Aug. 21-25. The office will open for business in New Windsor on Aug. 28. The new address of the Annual Conference Office is 500 Main Street, P.O. Box 720, New Windsor, MD, 21776-0720; 410-635-8740, 800-688-5186, fax 410-635-8742, executive director 410-635-8781. E-mail addresses remain unchanged for Fogle (lfogle_ac@brethren.org) and Conference assistant Dana Weaver (dweaver_ac@brethren.org).
- The annual Brethren Revival Fellowship orientation unit for Brethren Volunteer Service will be held at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., from Aug. 20-30. A total of 11 staff and volunteers are expected.
- An Action Alert from the Brethren Witness/Washington Office of the General Board, dated Aug. 3, calls attention to the Global Warming Pollution Reduction Act of 2006 (S. 3698), introduced by Senator Jim Jeffords (I, VT). The legislation “is based on the increasing scientific evidence that global warming poses a significant threat to the public health and welfare of the US and to the global environment as a whole,” the alert stated. As well as giving details of the legislation, the alert quotes from the 1991 Annual Conference statement “Creation: Called to Care,” and urges Brethren to contact their senators in support of the act. “Your voice can make a difference,” the alert said. “As little as 10 calls or letters on an issue can be enough to convince an elected official to support or not support a piece of legislation. Let us take a serious stand on reducing global warming and caring for our environment.” For more information go to www.brethren.org/genbd/WitnessWashOffice.html or contact the office at 800-785-3246 or washington_office_gb@brethren.org.
- Virlina District is holding a teacher’s workshop for Christian educators on the theme, “Called, Equipped, Sent Forth” on Sept. 16 from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Germantown Brick Church of the Brethren in Rocky Mount, Va. The scriptural texts will be Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and Ephesians 4:11-12. The workshop will include worship, teacher training, inspiration, and a commissioning of teachers. Workshops will include training for the new curriculum “Gather ’Round: Hearing and Sharing God’s Good News” from Brethren Press and Mennonite Publishing Network; a workshop on serving those with disabilities; and a workshop on ministering to difficult behaviors. Cost is $15 for an individual or $25 for a group from a congregation. Carol Mason, staff for the General Board’s Congregational Life Teams and a retired school teacher and ordained minister with a master's degree in curriculum development, will provide leadership. For more information contact Virlina District at 540-362-1816.
- Bridgewater (Va.) College “enjoyed unparalleled fundraising success in fiscal year 2005-06,” according to a release from the school. Gifts and pledges totaled $8,074,548, the release said, with highlights of the year including several gifts in the range of a half million dollars, and additions to the college endowment of $4.2 million. In other news from the college, nine new fulltime faculty arrive in mid-August to join the departments of communication studies, education, health and exercise science, history, music, and philosophy.
- Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind., is changing its accounting offerings to reflect changing needs in the larger accounting environment, announced a letter from president Jo Young Switzer. “After 15 years with a good master of accountancy program that has dwindled in number of graduates, we will offer, instead, a program that allows students to complete their 150 hours required by the accounting industry in four-and-a-half years,” the letter said. “Accounting firms nationwide are clear that they prefer to hire new accountants who already have met the 150-hour requirement and are ready to sit for the CPA exam. Firms are telling us the master's degree does not carry weight in their hiring decisions.” The new accounting program will begin this fall. For more about the college go to www.manchester.edu.
Sculptor Jeff Adams has been commissioned to create a bronze sculpture to depict the spirit of compassion given to seniors at Pinecrest Community in Mount Morris, Ill. A “maquette” or model of the sculpture titled "The Good Samaritan" was unveiled at a fundraiser in July. The sculpture is to be displayed at the entrance of the Grove, a new 20-acre active adult community now under construction as part of Pinecrest.- Fahrney Keedy Home and Village holds its Second Annual Heritage Day on Aug. 19, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Events includes live entertainment, a chicken barbecue, bake sale, yard sale, food vendors, craft vendors, trade vendors, and displays of quilts and celebrity autographs. Fahrney Keedy Home and Village is located at 8507 Mapleville Rd., Boonsboro, Md.
- Camp Eder in Fairfield, Pa., is hosting a “Moving Stories, Healing Stories” retreat on Sept. 22-24, with sponsorship from the Jubilee Troupe. The troupe is an endeavor of Brethren and others joining creative arts, social change, and spiritual renewal, sponsored by On Earth Peace, the New Community Project, and the Brethren Peace Fellowship. Keynote presenter is Julie Portman, an Obie Award winning performer and founder of Ki Theater in Washington, Va. The retreat is an opportunity to explore spiritual enrichment and community renewal processes through forms of interactive drama, movement, and other creative arts. Activities include working with storytelling tools and exploring personal stories; forums for sharing skills, ideas, media, and findings; "getting into our bodies" with quietness and play; personal and group devotional time; sharing meals and supportive fellowship. InterPlay instructor Judith Reichsman from Marlboro, Vt., also will lead a workshop to provide improvisational tools to further explore personal stories. Find out more and register online at http://jubileetroupe.org/events/2006-retreat.htm.
- Members of Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT) in northern Indiana have begun a nonviolent campaign to stop the production of depleted uranium weaponry. Leaders include Church of the Brethren members Cliff Kindy and Tom Benevento, who is Latin America/Caribbean program volunteer for the Global Mission Partnerships of the General Board. CPT was originally an initiative of the historic peace churches (Church of the Brethren, Mennonites, and Quakers) but now enjoys support and membership from a wide range of Christian denominations. The campaign focuses on depleted uranium production sites, such as the ones in Rocket Center, W.Va., and Jonesborough, Tenn., both operated or contracted by Alliant Technologies, said a release from the campaign. The focus is to only stop the production of depleted uranium, not to shut down the plants, the release said. Those participating in the campaign spend an hour in silence and fasting every Friday noon, and are encouraged to examine their lifestyles to ask how one lives a life that does not need to be defended by war. Plans have included monitoring trucks in and out of plants, holding prayer vigils for the victims of depleted uranium weapons, and scheduling public forums on the effects of depleted uranium weapons. For more go to the campaign’s website www.stop-du.org.
- A National Council of Churches (NCC) expert on international affairs and peace is scheduled to be on Fox News tonight, Aug. 16. Antonios Kireopoulos, the NCC's associate general secretary for International Affairs and Peace, is to be interviewed by Bill O'Reilly on “The O'Reilly Factor.” The program airs on the Fox News cable channel at 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. eastern. Kireopoulos will discuss solutions to the war in Lebanon and Israel, and the root causes of terrorism. He has visited the region many times and has worked on issues of peace for several years. For more information about the programs of the NCC go to www.councilofchurches.org.
- A Greater Gift (SERRV) offers a “Summer Overstock Sale” on Aug. 23-26 at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. The sale will include 60 percent off first quality items. A Greater Gift sells fair trade handcrafts and foods from around the world through partnerships with small-scale artisan and farmer groups. The organization was started by the Church of the Brethren. For more information go to www.agreatergift.org.
top
New speaker announced for National Older Adult Conference.
David Augsburger will give the keynote plenary session on Wednesday morning of the National Older Adult Conference (NOAC), an event sponsored by the Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC). Ken Haughk, founder of Stephen Ministries, was slated to speak but cancelled because of caregiving responsibilities. NOAC takes place Sept. 4-8 at Lake Junaluska Assembly in North Carolina.
Augsburger is professor of pastoral counseling at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, Calif. An ordained minister in the Mennonite Church, he has written 20 books on pastoral counseling, marriage, conflict, and human relations. His most recent books are “Pastoral Counseling Across Cultures” and “Conflict Mediation Across Cultures.” He also has taught at seminaries in Chicago, Indiana, and Pennsylvania, and has been a radio spokesperson for the Mennonite churches.
Augsburger's presentation, "Forgiving: Thou Shalt Not Nail Others to Their Past," will be followed that evening with a worship service in which his brother, Myron Augsburger, is the featured preacher.
Older adults who are 50 and over can still register for the conference at www.brethren-caregivers.org or by calling ABC at 800-323-8039.
Source: 8/16/2006 Newsline
top
David Augsburger will give the keynote plenary session on Wednesday morning of the National Older Adult Conference (NOAC), an event sponsored by the Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC). Ken Haughk, founder of Stephen Ministries, was slated to speak but cancelled because of caregiving responsibilities. NOAC takes place Sept. 4-8 at Lake Junaluska Assembly in North Carolina.
Augsburger is professor of pastoral counseling at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, Calif. An ordained minister in the Mennonite Church, he has written 20 books on pastoral counseling, marriage, conflict, and human relations. His most recent books are “Pastoral Counseling Across Cultures” and “Conflict Mediation Across Cultures.” He also has taught at seminaries in Chicago, Indiana, and Pennsylvania, and has been a radio spokesperson for the Mennonite churches.
Augsburger's presentation, "Forgiving: Thou Shalt Not Nail Others to Their Past," will be followed that evening with a worship service in which his brother, Myron Augsburger, is the featured preacher.
Older adults who are 50 and over can still register for the conference at www.brethren-caregivers.org or by calling ABC at 800-323-8039.
Source: 8/16/2006 Newsline
top
Bethany Seminary to host discernment retreat.
Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Ind., will host a discernment retreat titled “Open Hearts--Open Minds” on Sept. 22-24. Participants will discover and work with their calls to ministry through prayer, worship, group sessions, and personal time for reflection.
Tara Hornbacker, assistant professor of Ministry Formation, is the retreat leader. An inspirational speaker, humorist, and ministry consultant, Hornbacker is an ordained minister in the Church of the Brethren. As a faculty member, she gives overall direction to the seminary's program of preparing people for the ministry through experiential education, spiritual formation, and theological reflection on the practice of ministry.
Opportunities for individual spiritual direction also will be available, facilitated by Lisa Lundeen Nagel, a 2006 graduate of Earlham School of Religion.
"Open Hearts--Open Minds is a retreat grounded in scripture, worship, and an openness to the presence of God," said Amy Gall Ritchie, director of student development at Bethany. "It brings learning and doing together, as people delve into the issues that God is presenting to them."
Registration cost is $25. Information about lodging and other information will be sent to participants registered by Sept. 1. To register or for more information contact Ritchie at 765-983-1806 or ritcham@bethanyseminary.edu.
Source: 8/16/2006 Newsline
top
Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Ind., will host a discernment retreat titled “Open Hearts--Open Minds” on Sept. 22-24. Participants will discover and work with their calls to ministry through prayer, worship, group sessions, and personal time for reflection.
Tara Hornbacker, assistant professor of Ministry Formation, is the retreat leader. An inspirational speaker, humorist, and ministry consultant, Hornbacker is an ordained minister in the Church of the Brethren. As a faculty member, she gives overall direction to the seminary's program of preparing people for the ministry through experiential education, spiritual formation, and theological reflection on the practice of ministry.
Opportunities for individual spiritual direction also will be available, facilitated by Lisa Lundeen Nagel, a 2006 graduate of Earlham School of Religion.
"Open Hearts--Open Minds is a retreat grounded in scripture, worship, and an openness to the presence of God," said Amy Gall Ritchie, director of student development at Bethany. "It brings learning and doing together, as people delve into the issues that God is presenting to them."
Registration cost is $25. Information about lodging and other information will be sent to participants registered by Sept. 1. To register or for more information contact Ritchie at 765-983-1806 or ritcham@bethanyseminary.edu.
Source: 8/16/2006 Newsline
top
Finding the roots of hope in Iraq.
Church of the Brethren member Peggy Gish has returned to Iraq with Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT). Originally a violence-reduction initiative of the historic peace churches (Church of the Brethren, Mennonite, and Quaker), CPT now enjoys support and membership from a wide range of Christian denominations. Gish has spent much of the last several years in Iraq, first working there before the war began. Formerly the CPT Iraq team was based in Baghdad, but currently is working in another area of the country. Here Gish reflects on the seeming hopelessness of the war, and our source of hope in God.
"A call came last week from an Iraqi human rights worker and friend of the (CPT) team. The previous night, someone attempted to shoot him near his home in southern Iraq. He does not know what group may be behind this attack and the threats on his life he has received in the past months.
"A former team translator told us that militia and criminal gangs control many neighborhoods in Baghdad. In his neighborhood, daily gun battles on the street break out. In another Baghdad neighborhood, the husband of another team friend--also a human rights activist--was killed.
"'I couldn't believe it at first,' another human rights worker in Najaf told us after recently returning from several months in the US. 'The situation in Iraq is much worse than I ever imagined. I can no longer say this isn't civil war.'
"Some Iraqis are fleeing their homes, but most cannot leave. They feel helpless to do anything to change the escalating violence and chaos. Just two weeks ago the team's landlord and his wife told us that even though most of Baghdad was dangerous, the neighborhood we had been living in was safe. Since then, they have called us to say the situation there has become worse. Fewer people are out on the streets doing business or shopping. They have left and now agree with other Iraqi friends and colleagues who have advised our team not to return to Baghdad.
"These Iraqis are like our family. We feel a deep love and grieve for them. Not being able to accompany them or to do more to help them is painful. During our morning prayers, we mentioned them by name. We read about and spoke of hope, but we felt this hope was something out of reach, something that instead of buoying us up, was flying in our faces. A team mate named what we were all feeling, 'Right now it's hard to have hope for the future of Iraq.'
"But, I thought, the prophet Isaiah addressed this struggle when he spoke of God bringing forth springs of water in the thirsty ground of the desert (Isaiah 35:6-7) and of God being with us as we pass through the rivers and through fire (Isaiah 43:2.) Just like water in dry lands, hope is a precious commodity in war-torn places.
"If we base our hope mainly on our ability to stop this horrible violence, we are lost. Only when our faith is rooted in God's ability to work in impossible situations can we rise above despair and allow hope to strengthen us and lead us to action. That is the hope I pray for and want to walk in."
Source: 8/16/2006 Newsline
top
Church of the Brethren member Peggy Gish has returned to Iraq with Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT). Originally a violence-reduction initiative of the historic peace churches (Church of the Brethren, Mennonite, and Quaker), CPT now enjoys support and membership from a wide range of Christian denominations. Gish has spent much of the last several years in Iraq, first working there before the war began. Formerly the CPT Iraq team was based in Baghdad, but currently is working in another area of the country. Here Gish reflects on the seeming hopelessness of the war, and our source of hope in God.
"A call came last week from an Iraqi human rights worker and friend of the (CPT) team. The previous night, someone attempted to shoot him near his home in southern Iraq. He does not know what group may be behind this attack and the threats on his life he has received in the past months.
"A former team translator told us that militia and criminal gangs control many neighborhoods in Baghdad. In his neighborhood, daily gun battles on the street break out. In another Baghdad neighborhood, the husband of another team friend--also a human rights activist--was killed.
"'I couldn't believe it at first,' another human rights worker in Najaf told us after recently returning from several months in the US. 'The situation in Iraq is much worse than I ever imagined. I can no longer say this isn't civil war.'
"Some Iraqis are fleeing their homes, but most cannot leave. They feel helpless to do anything to change the escalating violence and chaos. Just two weeks ago the team's landlord and his wife told us that even though most of Baghdad was dangerous, the neighborhood we had been living in was safe. Since then, they have called us to say the situation there has become worse. Fewer people are out on the streets doing business or shopping. They have left and now agree with other Iraqi friends and colleagues who have advised our team not to return to Baghdad.
"These Iraqis are like our family. We feel a deep love and grieve for them. Not being able to accompany them or to do more to help them is painful. During our morning prayers, we mentioned them by name. We read about and spoke of hope, but we felt this hope was something out of reach, something that instead of buoying us up, was flying in our faces. A team mate named what we were all feeling, 'Right now it's hard to have hope for the future of Iraq.'
"But, I thought, the prophet Isaiah addressed this struggle when he spoke of God bringing forth springs of water in the thirsty ground of the desert (Isaiah 35:6-7) and of God being with us as we pass through the rivers and through fire (Isaiah 43:2.) Just like water in dry lands, hope is a precious commodity in war-torn places.
"If we base our hope mainly on our ability to stop this horrible violence, we are lost. Only when our faith is rooted in God's ability to work in impossible situations can we rise above despair and allow hope to strengthen us and lead us to action. That is the hope I pray for and want to walk in."
Source: 8/16/2006 Newsline
top
Credits
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board. Contact the editor at cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. Chrystal Bostian, Mary Dulabaum, Mary Kay Heatwole, Elsie Holderread, Jon Kobel, Martha June Roudebush, Marcia Shetler, and Walt Wiltschek contributed to this report.
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board. Contact the editor at cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. Chrystal Bostian, Mary Dulabaum, Mary Kay Heatwole, Elsie Holderread, Jon Kobel, Martha June Roudebush, Marcia Shetler, and Walt Wiltschek contributed to this report.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Newsline Special: Call to Prayer for Peace
BRETHREN LEADERS INVITE CONGREGATIONS TO PRAY AND ACT FOR PEACE
On a day of terror alerts and increasing violence in the Middle East, Church of the Brethren leaders are joining in a call to congregations to pray and act for peace, including general secretary Stan Noffsinger of the General Board, On Earth Peace co-directors Bob Gross and Barbara Sayler, and Brethren Witness/Washington Office director Phil Jones.
Several options for prayer and activities for peace are listed below, in which Brethren are invited to join in with ecumenical partners, the historic peace churches, and other Christians and people of faith around the world.
"Your church needs to be a part of this," said Noffsinger, characterizing activities as simple as a prayer, or the lighting of a candle, as "singular acts" that can build peace. The church offers "a different voice than the rumblings of the war on terror," he said. "It is time for the people of the church to offer a light to the world that leads to a just peace for all people."
"Our hearts cry out for the loss of life in Lebanon, in Israel, and in Gaza, as the violence there grows and spreads," said Gross. "When we try to fight violence with violence, we have let ourselves be overcome by evil. Romans 12:21 admonishes us, 'Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.'
"Some of us have traveled to the Middle East to meet with Israeli and Palestinian peacemakers, among them many Palestinian Christians," Gross continued. "We have seen that even in this tragic time they are lifting up the light of peace. Pray for those who are suffering as this war surrounds them, and for those who have been driven from their homes. Pray for those who could choose to stop the war. Pray for guidance for us all. Our only real security comes from God."
Jones reported from his recent participation in a training orientation for new Brethren Volunteer Service workers. "We painfully, and with great sorrow explored the current foreign policy programs of our nation," he said. "The extreme number of casualties, loss of life, and human degradation that occurs from the violence of war are so blatantly against the teachings of the one we know as Christ. We struggled with identifying ways that we can boldly give witness to a faithful moral conscience, one that might change and transform the minds and hearts of those who choose to make war. One that might identify, bring justice to, and transform the root of our many conflicts."
At least a few Brethren have kept candles burning since Sept. 11, 2001, as an enduring witness for peace, Jones recalled, bringing to mind the many ways Brethren have been calling for peace in recent years.
The Brethren Witness/Washington Office continues to encourage Brethren to communicate with elected representatives to support an immediate cease-fire between Israel and Hezbollah forces in Lebanon, and for the end of the war in Iraq. On Monday the office plans to release an Action Alert with a letter from United for Peace and Justice.
Other current peace initiatives to which Brethren are invited:
--A grassroots call to "encircle the world with light," begun by women at the Yealand Friends Meeting, a local Quaker congregation in England, and its monthly meeting of 10 congregations in North Lancashire. The Friends are one of the three historic peace churches along with the Mennonites and Church of the Brethren. The English initiative was highlighted on a day when the US and English governments cooperated in responding to plans for a terror attack on airplanes flying between the two countries. It calls on people of faith to light a candle every evening from 9-10 p.m. "as a witness to our common humanity, as long as violence rules in the Middle East." A poster of a lit candle with the invitation, "Let's encircle the world with light" designed by James Woolgrove of Yealand Meeting is available at www.brethren.org/genbd/EncircleTheWorld.pdf The poster quotes Martin Luther King Jr., "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."
--"A Season of Prayer for Peace in the Middle East" from the National Council of Churches and Religions for Peace-USA requests congregations to pray for peace in the Middle East and to join with their communities in activities that witness for peace. For resources from a variety of religious traditions go to www.seasonofprayer.org Find the Christian prayer resources by clicking on "Christian" in the left-hand column of the web page.
--An International Day of Prayer for Peace on Thursday, Sept. 21, part of the Decade to Overcome Violence program of the World Council of Churches. "Between now and then we invite every Church of the Brethren into thoughtful reflection of what it means to be a people following the Prince of Peace," Noffsinger said. For more information go to
http://overcomingviolence.org/en/about-the-dov/international-day-of-prayer-for-peace.html
--On Earth Peace has publicized a call for daily prayer from the Mideast Peace Prayer Foundation, which sets aside a few moments each day at 5 p.m. local time for people around the world to pause for silent prayer for peace. For more information go to http://www.mideastpeaceprayer.org/welcome.html
--A "Let Us Talk Fast" led by Christian Palestinian leader Mubarak Awad, is also highlighted by On Earth Peace. Awad is founder of the Palestinian Centre for the Study of Nonviolence (now the Holy Land Trust), and Nonviolence International in Washington, D.C. The fast began with participation by Lebanese, Israeli, and Palestinian citizens, and organizers expect many others to join the effort in the Middle East and around the world, fasting from 1 to 21 days. The fast calls on all parties to the conflict in Lebanon and Israel, and the US and other international parties, to "talk rather than kill." Many fasters are expected to donate their meal savings to peace and humanitarian groups. For more go to www.nonviolenceinternational.net
BRETHREN LEADERS INVITE CONGREGATIONS TO PRAY AND ACT FOR PEACE
On a day of terror alerts and increasing violence in the Middle East, Church of the Brethren leaders are joining in a call to congregations to pray and act for peace, including general secretary Stan Noffsinger of the General Board, On Earth Peace co-directors Bob Gross and Barbara Sayler, and Brethren Witness/Washington Office director Phil Jones.
Several options for prayer and activities for peace are listed below, in which Brethren are invited to join in with ecumenical partners, the historic peace churches, and other Christians and people of faith around the world.
"Your church needs to be a part of this," said Noffsinger, characterizing activities as simple as a prayer, or the lighting of a candle, as "singular acts" that can build peace. The church offers "a different voice than the rumblings of the war on terror," he said. "It is time for the people of the church to offer a light to the world that leads to a just peace for all people."
"Our hearts cry out for the loss of life in Lebanon, in Israel, and in Gaza, as the violence there grows and spreads," said Gross. "When we try to fight violence with violence, we have let ourselves be overcome by evil. Romans 12:21 admonishes us, 'Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.'
"Some of us have traveled to the Middle East to meet with Israeli and Palestinian peacemakers, among them many Palestinian Christians," Gross continued. "We have seen that even in this tragic time they are lifting up the light of peace. Pray for those who are suffering as this war surrounds them, and for those who have been driven from their homes. Pray for those who could choose to stop the war. Pray for guidance for us all. Our only real security comes from God."
Jones reported from his recent participation in a training orientation for new Brethren Volunteer Service workers. "We painfully, and with great sorrow explored the current foreign policy programs of our nation," he said. "The extreme number of casualties, loss of life, and human degradation that occurs from the violence of war are so blatantly against the teachings of the one we know as Christ. We struggled with identifying ways that we can boldly give witness to a faithful moral conscience, one that might change and transform the minds and hearts of those who choose to make war. One that might identify, bring justice to, and transform the root of our many conflicts."
At least a few Brethren have kept candles burning since Sept. 11, 2001, as an enduring witness for peace, Jones recalled, bringing to mind the many ways Brethren have been calling for peace in recent years.
The Brethren Witness/Washington Office continues to encourage Brethren to communicate with elected representatives to support an immediate cease-fire between Israel and Hezbollah forces in Lebanon, and for the end of the war in Iraq. On Monday the office plans to release an Action Alert with a letter from United for Peace and Justice.
Other current peace initiatives to which Brethren are invited:
--A grassroots call to "encircle the world with light," begun by women at the Yealand Friends Meeting, a local Quaker congregation in England, and its monthly meeting of 10 congregations in North Lancashire. The Friends are one of the three historic peace churches along with the Mennonites and Church of the Brethren. The English initiative was highlighted on a day when the US and English governments cooperated in responding to plans for a terror attack on airplanes flying between the two countries. It calls on people of faith to light a candle every evening from 9-10 p.m. "as a witness to our common humanity, as long as violence rules in the Middle East." A poster of a lit candle with the invitation, "Let's encircle the world with light" designed by James Woolgrove of Yealand Meeting is available at www.brethren.org/genbd/EncircleTheWorld.pdf The poster quotes Martin Luther King Jr., "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."
--"A Season of Prayer for Peace in the Middle East" from the National Council of Churches and Religions for Peace-USA requests congregations to pray for peace in the Middle East and to join with their communities in activities that witness for peace. For resources from a variety of religious traditions go to www.seasonofprayer.org Find the Christian prayer resources by clicking on "Christian" in the left-hand column of the web page.
--An International Day of Prayer for Peace on Thursday, Sept. 21, part of the Decade to Overcome Violence program of the World Council of Churches. "Between now and then we invite every Church of the Brethren into thoughtful reflection of what it means to be a people following the Prince of Peace," Noffsinger said. For more information go to
http://overcomingviolence.org/en/about-the-dov/international-day-of-prayer-for-peace.html
--On Earth Peace has publicized a call for daily prayer from the Mideast Peace Prayer Foundation, which sets aside a few moments each day at 5 p.m. local time for people around the world to pause for silent prayer for peace. For more information go to http://www.mideastpeaceprayer.org/welcome.html
--A "Let Us Talk Fast" led by Christian Palestinian leader Mubarak Awad, is also highlighted by On Earth Peace. Awad is founder of the Palestinian Centre for the Study of Nonviolence (now the Holy Land Trust), and Nonviolence International in Washington, D.C. The fast began with participation by Lebanese, Israeli, and Palestinian citizens, and organizers expect many others to join the effort in the Middle East and around the world, fasting from 1 to 21 days. The fast calls on all parties to the conflict in Lebanon and Israel, and the US and other international parties, to "talk rather than kill." Many fasters are expected to donate their meal savings to peace and humanitarian groups. For more go to www.nonviolenceinternational.net
Friday, August 04, 2006
Christian leaders call for cease-fire between Hezbollah and Israel.
The violence in the Middle East is escalating into heartbreaking futility, said the National Council of Churches (NCC) in just one of the statements made by Christian leaders worldwide decrying the war between Israel and forces of Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.
Stan Noffsinger, general secretary of the Church of the Brethren General Board, has signed on to two statements about the war: a July 20 letter from Churches for Middle East Peace calling for President Bush to do everything possible to calm the crisis and restore hope for a diplomatic solution; and a call for an interreligious season of prayer from the NCC and Religions for Peace-USA.
Churches for Middle East Peace expressed specific concern for the situation of Palestinians in Gaza and alarm for possible regional dimension of the war. It asked the US to intervene at the highest levels with Israeli and Palestinian officials.
Religions for Peace-USA is cooperating with the NCC to encourage "A Season of Prayer for Peace in the Middle East." NCC leaders called on individuals and congregations of all faiths and nations "to unite their hearts and souls in prayer, calling upon the Creator in whose image all human beings are made to write this message of peace on the hearts of all who want war."
This interreligious effort requests congregations to pray for peace in the Middle East this weekend and into the future, and to join with other people of faith and local communities in activities that witness for peace. For resources appropriate to the current crisis from a variety of religious traditions go to www.seasonofprayer.org (to find the Christian prayer resources click on "Christian" in the left-hand column of the web page).
The World Council of Churches (WCC) is offering prayer for "the people of Israel who have fallen victims to the missiles that continue to be fired indiscriminately into their towns and villages" and for "all the people of Lebanon, Muslims and Christians alike," in a statement issued yesterday.
The WCC appealed to the international community to "do whatever is possible" for a cease-fire. General secretary Samuel Kobia asked for a stop to the bombings, the negotiation of a cease-fire, and a comprehensive peace settlement between Hezbollah and Israel, calling especially on the leaders of the US, Israel, and the United Kingdom. He called on the Israeli government also to "give guarantees that humanitarian organizations will be allowed unhindered access to those in need of assistance."
Kobia said the war is "of ominous dimension and of far-reaching consequences" and said it is "shocking and disgraceful" to witness the spectacle of world leaders saying "in a most callous manner that fighting will continue ’til strategic military objectives are met." Kobia added that "blind faith in military violence to resolve disputes and disagreements is totally unwarranted, illegal, and immoral."
The NCC also called on Israel and Hezbollah to immediately cease hostilities. "All sides in this conflagration are showing appalling indifference to the deaths and injuries of hundreds of innocents on both sides of the border and in Gaza," said Shanta Premawardhana, associate general secretary for Interfaith Relations. "The stated goals of each belligerent to eliminate the other is solidifying a hatred that will last for generations." NCC leaders said neither side can shell its way to security.
Church World Service (CWS), the humanitarian arm of the NCC, has sent an initial aid shipment of 5,000 Gift of the Heart Health Kits, 500 water containers, and a large supply of blankets to support work by International Orthodox Christian Charities, said CWS emergency response program director Donna Derr. CWS also issued a fundraising appeal for $1 million and voiced increasing concern over a growing humanitarian crisis in Lebanon.
As of the beginning of this week, CWS also planned a shipment of food and non-food items to the Middle East Council of Churches, which is delivering food, non-food relief items, water and sanitation, and psychosocial attention through its Interchurch Network for Development in Lebanon in conjunction with the Action by Churches Together (ACT). ACT has issued its own appeal for $4.6 million, according to Presbyterian Churches USA news service.
CWS added that it is alarmed at the lack of safe passage needed to deliver humanitarian aid. "The UN has been asking for opening of humanitarian corridors but so far those corridors haven't materialized and transport routes and communication in the damaged Lebanese regions are severely hindered," said Derr. "It's an increasingly critical situation, with bridges destroyed, so many roads impassable, airports and power supplies bombed and inoperable."
The Lebanese government and the UN estimate that more than 500,000 people are displaced from their homes, needing shelter, food, safe drinking water, sanitation, and medical assistance, CWS said. At least 140,000 have fled to Syria and other neighboring countries for refuge. Particular concern was given for the disproportionate number of children affected, CWS said. The agency also is concerned about the humanitarian situation in Israeli-occupied territories of the West Bank and Gaza.
Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT) has sent a 12-member delegation to Israel and Palestine, which arrived in Jerusalem July 27. CPT is a violence-reduction initiative of the historic peace churches (Church of the Brethren, Mennonite, and Quaker), with support and membership from a wide range of Christian denominations. The delegation planned to speak with representatives of Israeli and Palestinian peace and human rights organizations in Jerusalem and Bethlehem, and then to travel to Hebron in the West Bank where CPT's longterm team is based and where Israeli settler and soldier violence against Palestinians and internationals has escalated. The delegation is scheduled to be in Israel and Palestine through Aug. 8.
Source: 8/4/2006 Newsline Special Report
top
The violence in the Middle East is escalating into heartbreaking futility, said the National Council of Churches (NCC) in just one of the statements made by Christian leaders worldwide decrying the war between Israel and forces of Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.
Stan Noffsinger, general secretary of the Church of the Brethren General Board, has signed on to two statements about the war: a July 20 letter from Churches for Middle East Peace calling for President Bush to do everything possible to calm the crisis and restore hope for a diplomatic solution; and a call for an interreligious season of prayer from the NCC and Religions for Peace-USA.
Churches for Middle East Peace expressed specific concern for the situation of Palestinians in Gaza and alarm for possible regional dimension of the war. It asked the US to intervene at the highest levels with Israeli and Palestinian officials.
Religions for Peace-USA is cooperating with the NCC to encourage "A Season of Prayer for Peace in the Middle East." NCC leaders called on individuals and congregations of all faiths and nations "to unite their hearts and souls in prayer, calling upon the Creator in whose image all human beings are made to write this message of peace on the hearts of all who want war."
This interreligious effort requests congregations to pray for peace in the Middle East this weekend and into the future, and to join with other people of faith and local communities in activities that witness for peace. For resources appropriate to the current crisis from a variety of religious traditions go to www.seasonofprayer.org (to find the Christian prayer resources click on "Christian" in the left-hand column of the web page).
The World Council of Churches (WCC) is offering prayer for "the people of Israel who have fallen victims to the missiles that continue to be fired indiscriminately into their towns and villages" and for "all the people of Lebanon, Muslims and Christians alike," in a statement issued yesterday.
The WCC appealed to the international community to "do whatever is possible" for a cease-fire. General secretary Samuel Kobia asked for a stop to the bombings, the negotiation of a cease-fire, and a comprehensive peace settlement between Hezbollah and Israel, calling especially on the leaders of the US, Israel, and the United Kingdom. He called on the Israeli government also to "give guarantees that humanitarian organizations will be allowed unhindered access to those in need of assistance."
Kobia said the war is "of ominous dimension and of far-reaching consequences" and said it is "shocking and disgraceful" to witness the spectacle of world leaders saying "in a most callous manner that fighting will continue ’til strategic military objectives are met." Kobia added that "blind faith in military violence to resolve disputes and disagreements is totally unwarranted, illegal, and immoral."
The NCC also called on Israel and Hezbollah to immediately cease hostilities. "All sides in this conflagration are showing appalling indifference to the deaths and injuries of hundreds of innocents on both sides of the border and in Gaza," said Shanta Premawardhana, associate general secretary for Interfaith Relations. "The stated goals of each belligerent to eliminate the other is solidifying a hatred that will last for generations." NCC leaders said neither side can shell its way to security.
Church World Service (CWS), the humanitarian arm of the NCC, has sent an initial aid shipment of 5,000 Gift of the Heart Health Kits, 500 water containers, and a large supply of blankets to support work by International Orthodox Christian Charities, said CWS emergency response program director Donna Derr. CWS also issued a fundraising appeal for $1 million and voiced increasing concern over a growing humanitarian crisis in Lebanon.
As of the beginning of this week, CWS also planned a shipment of food and non-food items to the Middle East Council of Churches, which is delivering food, non-food relief items, water and sanitation, and psychosocial attention through its Interchurch Network for Development in Lebanon in conjunction with the Action by Churches Together (ACT). ACT has issued its own appeal for $4.6 million, according to Presbyterian Churches USA news service.
CWS added that it is alarmed at the lack of safe passage needed to deliver humanitarian aid. "The UN has been asking for opening of humanitarian corridors but so far those corridors haven't materialized and transport routes and communication in the damaged Lebanese regions are severely hindered," said Derr. "It's an increasingly critical situation, with bridges destroyed, so many roads impassable, airports and power supplies bombed and inoperable."
The Lebanese government and the UN estimate that more than 500,000 people are displaced from their homes, needing shelter, food, safe drinking water, sanitation, and medical assistance, CWS said. At least 140,000 have fled to Syria and other neighboring countries for refuge. Particular concern was given for the disproportionate number of children affected, CWS said. The agency also is concerned about the humanitarian situation in Israeli-occupied territories of the West Bank and Gaza.
Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT) has sent a 12-member delegation to Israel and Palestine, which arrived in Jerusalem July 27. CPT is a violence-reduction initiative of the historic peace churches (Church of the Brethren, Mennonite, and Quaker), with support and membership from a wide range of Christian denominations. The delegation planned to speak with representatives of Israeli and Palestinian peace and human rights organizations in Jerusalem and Bethlehem, and then to travel to Hebron in the West Bank where CPT's longterm team is based and where Israeli settler and soldier violence against Palestinians and internationals has escalated. The delegation is scheduled to be in Israel and Palestine through Aug. 8.
Source: 8/4/2006 Newsline Special Report
top
Youth bear witness to a faith in Christ that moves mountains.
National Youth Conference (NYC), July 22-27, 2006, challenged the youth of the Church of the Brethren to "come and see" with a conference theme inspired by John 1:35-39. The 3,606 youth and advisors who answered the call witnessed a faith in Christ that can move mountains.
Set at the base of the Rocky Mountains on the campus of Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colo., NYC offered a experience of the awesomeness of God’s creation, and a challenge to "move" the mountainous problems of our world such as hunger, poverty, child welfare, and violence.
Worship played a central role, with morning and evening worship celebrations held in Moby Arena. Questions of the day guided worship services led by a host of dynamic speakers--and by the NYC band that rocked the arena with the theme song, "Come and See" by Seth Hendricks.
Among preachers who inspired and challenged the youth were Craig Kielburger, founder of (Kids Can) Free the Children, who urged youth not to wait to get to work for God. "Every day we receive our calling," he said.
Jim Wallis, founder of Sojourners community in Washington, D.C., and an evangelical leader on social issues, gave the youth an important task: "You’ve got to clear up the confusion about what it means to be a Christian." Following Jesus means getting in the middle of the world’s suffering, "because that’s where (Jesus) stands inviting us in," he said.
Ken Medema, who has been a popular performer at previous youth conferences, sang a song in response to Wallis’ message. The congregation was invited to join in the chorus: "We are the people we’ve been waiting for. The world is waiting so come through the door. There’s lots of room here on the dancing floor. There’s no delaying anymore."
The Mennonite comedy duo Ted and Lee were received with laughter and applause as they acted out gospel stories about the disciples’ relationship with Jesus.
Youth speakers Jamie Frye from Kansas, Allen Bowers from Virginia, and Chrissy Sollenberger from Pennsylvania, each gave his or her own different perspective on what following Jesus really means.
Jeff Carter, pastor of Manassas (Va.) Church of the Brethren, answered the NYC theme with his statement, "It is the Christ that we have come to see."
In a service created by General Board staff, several Brethren youth and adults spoke of the importance of being part of the church, and told stories of their work for Christ in the world.
Beth Gunzel, Brethren mission worker in the Dominican Republic and consultant for a microloan community development program of the Church of the Brethren, led a service focused on the situation of the poor in the DR. She said that Christians have a responsibility to others. "We are guided by the Holy Spirit to turn wrongs into rights, to be used for a divine purpose," she said.
Andrew Murray, professor of peace studies at Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa., and a popular Brethren folksinger, answered the question of the day, "Who are you becoming?" At age 64, he told the conference that most of what he has become he never anticipated. "I believe Jesus said, ‘Come and see,’ because whose you become will determine who you become."
Preaching on 2 Corinthians 3:12-18, Bethany Seminary professor Dawn Ottoni Wilhelm said, "God’s got you covered.... But beware of the protective coverings you make for yourself" including "veils" of hardness of heart and mind, she added. "If you want to loosen the hold of hardness...then do what God does, do what this conference has asked you to do. Ask questions." Wilhelm asserted, "With every question we ask, we join Jesus in tugging at the veils and revealing God."
Worship on Wednesday evening ended with anointing for freedom through Christ. Afterwards, in moments of deep emotion, groups of youth sat in tight circles on the floor, or stood in large groups, swaying to the music with their arms around each other.
"I am ready to change the world!" responded Deborah from Washington State the next morning. She was one of several youth who gave testimonies at the final worship service. At NYC, "thousands of strangers have truly become the body of Christ," said Caitlin from Arizona.
New Community Project director David Radcliff preached for closing worship. "You’ve got the world in your hands," he said in a sermon that sent youth home with new hope and energy to follow Jesus. Brethren youth are up to the challenges of the 21st century, he said. "Jesus will give you power to change this world," Radcliff said. "I want to tell you Jesus believes in you, enough to put his mission and his world in your hands."
In addition to worship, NYC offered small groups, concerts, recreation, service projects, workshops, devotions, and late-evening activities. Tournaments of Jungle Ball volleyball and Ultimate Frisbee continued late Wednesday because of interruptions by afternoon thunderstorms earlier in the week. Concerts were given by Superchick, Ken Medema, Andy and Terry Murray, The Guys, and the Bittersweet Gospel Band. Other late-evening activities included worship service led by groups from Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, a talk-back session with Jim Wallis, a reception honoring scholarship recipients and international guests, a swing dance, a performance of "Godspell" by an arts camp from Camp Harmony, and an Open Mic talent show.
NYC coordinators Cindy Laprade, Beth Rhodes, and Emily Tyler worked with Chris Douglas, director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry for the General Board, and the National Youth Cabinet to prepare for the conference over the past two years. Cabinet members are Becky Ball-Miller, Leigh-Anne Enders, Nick Kauffman, Zac Morgan, Shawn Flory Replogle, Erin Smith, and Rachael Stevens. Numerous other volunteers made NYC possible including youth workers, worship coordinators and musicians, workshop and special event leaders, and youth advisors from congregations and districts.
For more stories and photos from National Youth Conference 2006, go to www.brethren.org/NYC2006/.
Source: 8/4/2006 Newsline Special Report
top
National Youth Conference (NYC), July 22-27, 2006, challenged the youth of the Church of the Brethren to "come and see" with a conference theme inspired by John 1:35-39. The 3,606 youth and advisors who answered the call witnessed a faith in Christ that can move mountains.
Set at the base of the Rocky Mountains on the campus of Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colo., NYC offered a experience of the awesomeness of God’s creation, and a challenge to "move" the mountainous problems of our world such as hunger, poverty, child welfare, and violence.
Worship played a central role, with morning and evening worship celebrations held in Moby Arena. Questions of the day guided worship services led by a host of dynamic speakers--and by the NYC band that rocked the arena with the theme song, "Come and See" by Seth Hendricks.
Among preachers who inspired and challenged the youth were Craig Kielburger, founder of (Kids Can) Free the Children, who urged youth not to wait to get to work for God. "Every day we receive our calling," he said.
Jim Wallis, founder of Sojourners community in Washington, D.C., and an evangelical leader on social issues, gave the youth an important task: "You’ve got to clear up the confusion about what it means to be a Christian." Following Jesus means getting in the middle of the world’s suffering, "because that’s where (Jesus) stands inviting us in," he said.
Ken Medema, who has been a popular performer at previous youth conferences, sang a song in response to Wallis’ message. The congregation was invited to join in the chorus: "We are the people we’ve been waiting for. The world is waiting so come through the door. There’s lots of room here on the dancing floor. There’s no delaying anymore."
The Mennonite comedy duo Ted and Lee were received with laughter and applause as they acted out gospel stories about the disciples’ relationship with Jesus.
Youth speakers Jamie Frye from Kansas, Allen Bowers from Virginia, and Chrissy Sollenberger from Pennsylvania, each gave his or her own different perspective on what following Jesus really means.
Jeff Carter, pastor of Manassas (Va.) Church of the Brethren, answered the NYC theme with his statement, "It is the Christ that we have come to see."
In a service created by General Board staff, several Brethren youth and adults spoke of the importance of being part of the church, and told stories of their work for Christ in the world.
Beth Gunzel, Brethren mission worker in the Dominican Republic and consultant for a microloan community development program of the Church of the Brethren, led a service focused on the situation of the poor in the DR. She said that Christians have a responsibility to others. "We are guided by the Holy Spirit to turn wrongs into rights, to be used for a divine purpose," she said.
Andrew Murray, professor of peace studies at Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa., and a popular Brethren folksinger, answered the question of the day, "Who are you becoming?" At age 64, he told the conference that most of what he has become he never anticipated. "I believe Jesus said, ‘Come and see,’ because whose you become will determine who you become."
Preaching on 2 Corinthians 3:12-18, Bethany Seminary professor Dawn Ottoni Wilhelm said, "God’s got you covered.... But beware of the protective coverings you make for yourself" including "veils" of hardness of heart and mind, she added. "If you want to loosen the hold of hardness...then do what God does, do what this conference has asked you to do. Ask questions." Wilhelm asserted, "With every question we ask, we join Jesus in tugging at the veils and revealing God."
Worship on Wednesday evening ended with anointing for freedom through Christ. Afterwards, in moments of deep emotion, groups of youth sat in tight circles on the floor, or stood in large groups, swaying to the music with their arms around each other.
"I am ready to change the world!" responded Deborah from Washington State the next morning. She was one of several youth who gave testimonies at the final worship service. At NYC, "thousands of strangers have truly become the body of Christ," said Caitlin from Arizona.
New Community Project director David Radcliff preached for closing worship. "You’ve got the world in your hands," he said in a sermon that sent youth home with new hope and energy to follow Jesus. Brethren youth are up to the challenges of the 21st century, he said. "Jesus will give you power to change this world," Radcliff said. "I want to tell you Jesus believes in you, enough to put his mission and his world in your hands."
In addition to worship, NYC offered small groups, concerts, recreation, service projects, workshops, devotions, and late-evening activities. Tournaments of Jungle Ball volleyball and Ultimate Frisbee continued late Wednesday because of interruptions by afternoon thunderstorms earlier in the week. Concerts were given by Superchick, Ken Medema, Andy and Terry Murray, The Guys, and the Bittersweet Gospel Band. Other late-evening activities included worship service led by groups from Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, a talk-back session with Jim Wallis, a reception honoring scholarship recipients and international guests, a swing dance, a performance of "Godspell" by an arts camp from Camp Harmony, and an Open Mic talent show.
NYC coordinators Cindy Laprade, Beth Rhodes, and Emily Tyler worked with Chris Douglas, director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry for the General Board, and the National Youth Cabinet to prepare for the conference over the past two years. Cabinet members are Becky Ball-Miller, Leigh-Anne Enders, Nick Kauffman, Zac Morgan, Shawn Flory Replogle, Erin Smith, and Rachael Stevens. Numerous other volunteers made NYC possible including youth workers, worship coordinators and musicians, workshop and special event leaders, and youth advisors from congregations and districts.
For more stories and photos from National Youth Conference 2006, go to www.brethren.org/NYC2006/.
Source: 8/4/2006 Newsline Special Report
top
Wow! Together we can end hunger.
Hunger is a big word, seemingly larger than all our efforts to combat it. But the funds raised in various ways by NYC participants to turn hunger around is huge--exceeding even the wildest expectations of the coordinators. NYC 2006 has demonstrated in a very real way that youth are intentional about the church’s work to end hunger and poverty.
Responding to the theme, "Come and See," more than 1,100 people took part in a REGNUH 5K Walk/Run to "turn hunger around." Sponsorships of participants, coupled with a special offering, has now raised a total of $90,904.63.
The total adds $3,825.67 received since NYC ended, to the previous total of $87,078.96 announced on the last day of the conference. It includes $29,410.08 in REGNUH sponsorships and $61,494.55 received in the offering and through tithes of NYC registration fees from more than 30 congregations. The funds will be distributed through the Global Food Crisis Fund of the Church of the Brethren General Board.
"WOW!" said Howard Royer, manager of the Global Food Crisis Fund. "What signals NYC has sent to the church and the world! The first is to offer what Brethren and the Bible have championed--that God calls us to be with the poor and the hungry. The second is that no longer are the most vulnerable to be the most expendable; together we can put an end to extreme hunger."
Daniel Neidlinger of Indiana was the first runner to cross the REHNUH finish line, with a time of 19 minutes, 28 seconds. Dustin Adams of Maryland came in second.
Neidlinger’s whole youth group of nine, including advisors, either ran or walked. "They all wanted me to run to win it!" said Neidlinger, who does cross country and track in high school. His church helped the youth raise several hundred dollars for the Global Food Crisis Fund, and was still collecting a special offering in worship the morning of the REGNUH walk/run.
One of the top individual fundraisers for REGNUH is Dianne Hollinger, a youth advisor from York (Pa.) First Church of the Brethren, who raised $4,422. She originally challenged her congregation to help her raise $2,000, saying she would run 10 percent of the course for every 10 percent of the money raised. The congregation raised more than twice that amount, so she ran the whole five kilometers. When Hollinger collapsed at the finish line, friends from her congregation were there to help her back to her feet.
Heather Simmons of Ohio walked the course. She said it was the experience that mattered--especially at one of the learning stations along the route when she carried buckets with 20 pounds of water to simulate what women in many countries do every day. She said, "I can’t imagine how they do it all the time."
Source: 8/4/2006 Newsline Special Report
top
Hunger is a big word, seemingly larger than all our efforts to combat it. But the funds raised in various ways by NYC participants to turn hunger around is huge--exceeding even the wildest expectations of the coordinators. NYC 2006 has demonstrated in a very real way that youth are intentional about the church’s work to end hunger and poverty.
Responding to the theme, "Come and See," more than 1,100 people took part in a REGNUH 5K Walk/Run to "turn hunger around." Sponsorships of participants, coupled with a special offering, has now raised a total of $90,904.63.
The total adds $3,825.67 received since NYC ended, to the previous total of $87,078.96 announced on the last day of the conference. It includes $29,410.08 in REGNUH sponsorships and $61,494.55 received in the offering and through tithes of NYC registration fees from more than 30 congregations. The funds will be distributed through the Global Food Crisis Fund of the Church of the Brethren General Board.
"WOW!" said Howard Royer, manager of the Global Food Crisis Fund. "What signals NYC has sent to the church and the world! The first is to offer what Brethren and the Bible have championed--that God calls us to be with the poor and the hungry. The second is that no longer are the most vulnerable to be the most expendable; together we can put an end to extreme hunger."
Daniel Neidlinger of Indiana was the first runner to cross the REHNUH finish line, with a time of 19 minutes, 28 seconds. Dustin Adams of Maryland came in second.
Neidlinger’s whole youth group of nine, including advisors, either ran or walked. "They all wanted me to run to win it!" said Neidlinger, who does cross country and track in high school. His church helped the youth raise several hundred dollars for the Global Food Crisis Fund, and was still collecting a special offering in worship the morning of the REGNUH walk/run.
One of the top individual fundraisers for REGNUH is Dianne Hollinger, a youth advisor from York (Pa.) First Church of the Brethren, who raised $4,422. She originally challenged her congregation to help her raise $2,000, saying she would run 10 percent of the course for every 10 percent of the money raised. The congregation raised more than twice that amount, so she ran the whole five kilometers. When Hollinger collapsed at the finish line, friends from her congregation were there to help her back to her feet.
Heather Simmons of Ohio walked the course. She said it was the experience that mattered--especially at one of the learning stations along the route when she carried buckets with 20 pounds of water to simulate what women in many countries do every day. She said, "I can’t imagine how they do it all the time."
Source: 8/4/2006 Newsline Special Report
top
Youth take up love offering at NYC.
Participants at NYC took up a love offering for a youth whose home was severely damaged by fire while he was at the conference. Jeff from Northern Indiana District received word July 25 that the house he and his mother lived in was damaged by a fire in an area of the house that included his room. The remaining part of the house suffered extensive smoke damage. The fire also claimed the life of the family's pet cats.
NYC counselors and spiritual directors collectively called for a love offering during an evening service. The response was so great that many people asked for an additional day to give more funds, reported district youth coordinator Keith Carter. The offering allows the family to replace necessities such as beds, clothing, and other household items in an expedient manner, he said.
"I would just like to thank everyone for responding the way in which they did," Jeff said. "I am thankful to all of you for your generosity. You all have helped me see God this week."
"I was deeply touched when I saw the outpouring of love and support by conference participants," Carter said. "What a great way for NYC participants to respond in an immediate tangible way to everything learned at NYC. The generosity and response has a great impact not only on Jeff and his family, but for the local congregation and district. Thank you to all for contributing to this love offering and most of all for being the church."
Stacey Carter, youth director at Jeff’s church, said, "God took a tragedy and turned it into a miracle! We are thankful for the abundant outpouring of love and support for Jeff and his mother. Thank you all for being Jesus to someone else."
Source: 8/4/2006 Newsline Special Report
top
Participants at NYC took up a love offering for a youth whose home was severely damaged by fire while he was at the conference. Jeff from Northern Indiana District received word July 25 that the house he and his mother lived in was damaged by a fire in an area of the house that included his room. The remaining part of the house suffered extensive smoke damage. The fire also claimed the life of the family's pet cats.
NYC counselors and spiritual directors collectively called for a love offering during an evening service. The response was so great that many people asked for an additional day to give more funds, reported district youth coordinator Keith Carter. The offering allows the family to replace necessities such as beds, clothing, and other household items in an expedient manner, he said.
"I would just like to thank everyone for responding the way in which they did," Jeff said. "I am thankful to all of you for your generosity. You all have helped me see God this week."
"I was deeply touched when I saw the outpouring of love and support by conference participants," Carter said. "What a great way for NYC participants to respond in an immediate tangible way to everything learned at NYC. The generosity and response has a great impact not only on Jeff and his family, but for the local congregation and district. Thank you to all for contributing to this love offering and most of all for being the church."
Stacey Carter, youth director at Jeff’s church, said, "God took a tragedy and turned it into a miracle! We are thankful for the abundant outpouring of love and support for Jeff and his mother. Thank you all for being Jesus to someone else."
Source: 8/4/2006 Newsline Special Report
top
NYC nuggets.
top
- In other NYC offerings, 2,522 pounds of food was given to the Food Bank for Larimer County, Colo.; $18,532.37 was received for the NYC Scholarship Fund; 1,357 Gift of the Heart School Kits were donated along with $7,123.53 to help pay for shipping the kits to children in need through Church World Service.
- Service projects and mountain hikes were favorite NYC activities. Some 2,700 people went on hikes in the mountains above Fort Collins. More than 2,000 pre-registered to work at 45-plus service projects around the Fort Collins and Loveland areas. Projects included clean up of highways and parks, work at a shelter and thrift stores--including two run by Habitat for Humanity, a Hearts and Horses Therapy center, Fort Collins’ Lincoln Center for the performing arts, nursing homes, the university’s campus ministry, and many others.
- Inspired by REGNUH, a group of youth decided the next day to hold "REGNUH Part II." Spokesperson Alex from Pennsylvania said, "The service last night kind of touched me, and I had to do something." His friends reported that all day long he had been saying, "I’m on a God high!" The 13 youth and 2 advisors created their own walk of about 1 hour, or approximately 2 miles. Along the way, they asked people to join in or to give a donation. In another REGNUH-inspired effort, three youth from Pennsylvania--nose flute players Brad and David, their "manager" Seth, and a garden gnome mascot--created a band called "The Nose Knows" to raise money for hunger. They put the money into the offering for the Global Food Crisis Fund. The nose flute repertoire included "Yankee Doodle Dandy," "Mary Had a Little Lamb," and the theme song to "The Adams Family." "We're working on ‘Amazing Grace,’" they reported.
- Another REGNUH walk/run will be held at National Older Adult Conference (NOAC) on Sept. 7 at Lake Junaluska, N.C. NOAC is sponsored by the Association of Brethren Caregivers. Participants are being asked to accept the invitation to walk or run a two-mile circuit around the lake to support the Global Food Crisis Fund. First- and second-place awards will be given by the Brethren Foundation, which also is giving a "REGNUH...turning hunger around" cap to each walker and runner. The foundation is a ministry of Brethren Benefit Trust.
top
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
NEWS
- Disaster Child Care cares for children evacuated from Lebanon.
- Brethren join religious coalition to reconstruct churches on Gulf coast.
- ‘Disaster Wall’ graced with the names of hundreds of volunteers.
- Southern Plains District meets about ‘Love and Little Things.’
- Historical marker to commemorate Brethren Annual Meetings.
- Brethren bits: Remembrance, job opening, and much more.
Disaster Child Care cares for children evacuated from Lebanon.
Disaster Child Care helped care for children of American families evacuating from the war in the Middle East. From July 20-28, a Disaster Child Care center was set up at the Baltimore-Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI) to care for children of US citizens being evacuated from Lebanon, at the request of the Central Maryland Chapter of the American Red Cross.
"During the nine-day response, 23 child care volunteers provided a safe secure space for 231 scared, confused, and weary children to play and, in some cases sleep, while parents were guided through US Customs, and given the opportunity to apply for assistance, arrange connecting flights, or contact family members in the US," reported coordinator Helen Stonesifer. Disaster Child Care is a ministry of the Church of the Brethren General Board.
BWI was chosen as the location for the child care center because the airport was designated as a Repatriation Center by Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr., for Americans fleeing Lebanon, said Stonesifer. Nineteen flights from the Middle East were received on the International Pier, bringing a total of 4,492 passengers to Maryland.
"The children were relieved to be far away from the window-shattering bombs and fiery explosions" of the war, Stonesifer said.
A 10-year-old girl who had been visiting her grandparents in Lebanon shared her story with a child care volunteer: "The war was scary," she said. "We ran to our neighbor’s house thinking it would be safer, and then back to my grandparent’s house." Stonesifer said the girl’s report indicated the family made this trip several times in search of safety. "One time we all huddled under the stair steps because we could feel the house shake from the bombs being dropped," the girl said.
The girl shared her story over and over with her care giver, Stonesifer added. "This was her way of working through the fear she had experienced."
"Hopefully, child care volunteers onsite made a bright spot in a huge cloud of sorrow and pain for these children, whose lives have been turned upside down," Stonesifer said. "Please keep the children and families in your prayers as they embark upon a new life in the US."
Governor Ehrlich, along with several of his staff, visited the Disaster Child Care center and shared words of appreciation with the volunteers for their service.
Source: 8/2/2006 Newsline
top
Disaster Child Care helped care for children of American families evacuating from the war in the Middle East. From July 20-28, a Disaster Child Care center was set up at the Baltimore-Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI) to care for children of US citizens being evacuated from Lebanon, at the request of the Central Maryland Chapter of the American Red Cross.
"During the nine-day response, 23 child care volunteers provided a safe secure space for 231 scared, confused, and weary children to play and, in some cases sleep, while parents were guided through US Customs, and given the opportunity to apply for assistance, arrange connecting flights, or contact family members in the US," reported coordinator Helen Stonesifer. Disaster Child Care is a ministry of the Church of the Brethren General Board.
BWI was chosen as the location for the child care center because the airport was designated as a Repatriation Center by Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr., for Americans fleeing Lebanon, said Stonesifer. Nineteen flights from the Middle East were received on the International Pier, bringing a total of 4,492 passengers to Maryland.
"The children were relieved to be far away from the window-shattering bombs and fiery explosions" of the war, Stonesifer said.
A 10-year-old girl who had been visiting her grandparents in Lebanon shared her story with a child care volunteer: "The war was scary," she said. "We ran to our neighbor’s house thinking it would be safer, and then back to my grandparent’s house." Stonesifer said the girl’s report indicated the family made this trip several times in search of safety. "One time we all huddled under the stair steps because we could feel the house shake from the bombs being dropped," the girl said.
The girl shared her story over and over with her care giver, Stonesifer added. "This was her way of working through the fear she had experienced."
"Hopefully, child care volunteers onsite made a bright spot in a huge cloud of sorrow and pain for these children, whose lives have been turned upside down," Stonesifer said. "Please keep the children and families in your prayers as they embark upon a new life in the US."
Governor Ehrlich, along with several of his staff, visited the Disaster Child Care center and shared words of appreciation with the volunteers for their service.
Source: 8/2/2006 Newsline
top
Brethren join religious coalition to reconstruct churches on Gulf coast.
The Brethren Witness/Washington Office has joined a religious coalition focused on reconstructing churches in New Orleans and other areas of the hurricane-ravaged Gulf Coast, called "Churches Supporting Churches." The Brethren Witness/Washington Office is a ministry of the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Brethren Witness/Washington Office director Phil Jones has been a part of a planning and strategy group for the project since its inception in Oct. 2005, and has visited New Orleans several times for meetings about the project.
"It is time for the Church of the Brethren to once again step forward and lead in offering to the Gulf region churches a voice of deep understanding and hope," Jones said. "The injustices of poverty, race, and social discrimination must be addressed as part of the whole picture of restoration for the people of this region."
The decision to join the coalition was prompted by mounting concern about the ability of Hurricane Katrina evacuees to move back to New Orleans in the near future, said a release from the office. The coalition behind "Churches Supporting Churches" represents historic African-American churches, mainline Protestant denominations, and historic peace churches including the Progressive National Baptist Convention, American Friends Service Committee, Every Church a Peace Church, Baptist Peace Fellowship of North America, Presbyterian Church USA, and the Mennonite Church. The coalition also has a connection with the National Council of Churches.
The project hopes to help re-establish community life in New Orleans and other areas of the Gulf by helping rebuild Black churches, focusing on helping raise the necessary funds to repair, rebuild, and re-open as many churches as possible.
The coalition is convened by C.T. Vivian, a civil rights activist. "Only the united church, people in local congregations in partnership with white and African-American churches in other areas of the US, as well as all people of faith, can make a difference and help a just response emerge from the tragic nature of Katrina’s devastation," Vivian said. "This region of the United States has survived the very worst of our nation’s history of racism, ignorance, poverty, and neglect. We must help rebuild Black churches in New Orleans and across the Gulf Coast region so that they can be agents for the constructive redevelopment and rebuilding of their communities, as well as for the lives of the people in their congregations."
The Brethren "have done well in service," Jones said, complimenting the church on its work following the hurricanes. He added a challenge, however, to move beyond traditional emergency response. "Childcare, clean up, and home rebuilding projects have been established and will continue with the same strength that has always been that of Brethren in emergency disaster response," he said. "Let us take the next necessary step and partner with congregations pledging our support through pastoral care, church repair and rebuilding, and program support."
Brethren responded to similar issues following the burning of African-American churches in the area of Orangeburg, S.C., in the early 1990s, Jones said. "It is our hope that in the next few months Brethren congregations will step forward to partner with one or more of the congregations of New Orleans. The tired and embattled pastors and congregations of the Gulf region would embrace such an outpouring of love, support, and concern."
For more information about how to become a partner congregation in "Churches Supporting Churches," contact the Brethren Witness/Washington Office at 800-785-3246.
Source: 8/2/2006 Newsline
top
The Brethren Witness/Washington Office has joined a religious coalition focused on reconstructing churches in New Orleans and other areas of the hurricane-ravaged Gulf Coast, called "Churches Supporting Churches." The Brethren Witness/Washington Office is a ministry of the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Brethren Witness/Washington Office director Phil Jones has been a part of a planning and strategy group for the project since its inception in Oct. 2005, and has visited New Orleans several times for meetings about the project.
"It is time for the Church of the Brethren to once again step forward and lead in offering to the Gulf region churches a voice of deep understanding and hope," Jones said. "The injustices of poverty, race, and social discrimination must be addressed as part of the whole picture of restoration for the people of this region."
The decision to join the coalition was prompted by mounting concern about the ability of Hurricane Katrina evacuees to move back to New Orleans in the near future, said a release from the office. The coalition behind "Churches Supporting Churches" represents historic African-American churches, mainline Protestant denominations, and historic peace churches including the Progressive National Baptist Convention, American Friends Service Committee, Every Church a Peace Church, Baptist Peace Fellowship of North America, Presbyterian Church USA, and the Mennonite Church. The coalition also has a connection with the National Council of Churches.
The project hopes to help re-establish community life in New Orleans and other areas of the Gulf by helping rebuild Black churches, focusing on helping raise the necessary funds to repair, rebuild, and re-open as many churches as possible.
The coalition is convened by C.T. Vivian, a civil rights activist. "Only the united church, people in local congregations in partnership with white and African-American churches in other areas of the US, as well as all people of faith, can make a difference and help a just response emerge from the tragic nature of Katrina’s devastation," Vivian said. "This region of the United States has survived the very worst of our nation’s history of racism, ignorance, poverty, and neglect. We must help rebuild Black churches in New Orleans and across the Gulf Coast region so that they can be agents for the constructive redevelopment and rebuilding of their communities, as well as for the lives of the people in their congregations."
The Brethren "have done well in service," Jones said, complimenting the church on its work following the hurricanes. He added a challenge, however, to move beyond traditional emergency response. "Childcare, clean up, and home rebuilding projects have been established and will continue with the same strength that has always been that of Brethren in emergency disaster response," he said. "Let us take the next necessary step and partner with congregations pledging our support through pastoral care, church repair and rebuilding, and program support."
Brethren responded to similar issues following the burning of African-American churches in the area of Orangeburg, S.C., in the early 1990s, Jones said. "It is our hope that in the next few months Brethren congregations will step forward to partner with one or more of the congregations of New Orleans. The tired and embattled pastors and congregations of the Gulf region would embrace such an outpouring of love, support, and concern."
For more information about how to become a partner congregation in "Churches Supporting Churches," contact the Brethren Witness/Washington Office at 800-785-3246.
Source: 8/2/2006 Newsline
top
‘Disaster Wall’ graced with the names of hundreds of volunteers.
A wall in an apartment in Pensacola, Fla., for the past year became a landmark for Brethren disaster volunteers. At the Brethren Disaster Response project in Pensacola, a "Disaster Wall" graced the living room of an apartment that until just a few weeks ago housed volunteers who traveled from across the country to rebuild and repair homes following Hurricanes Ivan and Dennis.
At the center of the wall was a large drawing of a Brethren Disaster Response pickup truck, created by McPherson (Kan.) College student Nick Anderson. All of the disaster volunteers who worked in Pensacola over the past year were invited to sign their names on the wall.
With plans for the apartment in Pensacola to be demolished or completely rehabbed shortly, the owners did not mind the scribbling on the walls, according to volunteer project directors Phil and Joan Taylor.
Now the Brethren Disaster Response project in Florida has moved to new quarters in Gulf Breeze, so the Disaster Wall has been left behind.
It will not be forgotten, however. A poster of the wall has been created by Glenn Riegel, a Brethren Disaster Response volunteer from Little Swatara Church of the Brethren. The 16-by-20 inch posters were displayed at Annual Conference in early July, and may be ordered from ersm_gb@brethren.org for $12 plus shipping and handling.
The wall also has been featured on Disaster News Network, in an article written by Susan Kim. Go to http://www.disasternews.net/news/news.php?articleid=3210.
Source: 8/2/2006 Newsline
top
A wall in an apartment in Pensacola, Fla., for the past year became a landmark for Brethren disaster volunteers. At the Brethren Disaster Response project in Pensacola, a "Disaster Wall" graced the living room of an apartment that until just a few weeks ago housed volunteers who traveled from across the country to rebuild and repair homes following Hurricanes Ivan and Dennis.
At the center of the wall was a large drawing of a Brethren Disaster Response pickup truck, created by McPherson (Kan.) College student Nick Anderson. All of the disaster volunteers who worked in Pensacola over the past year were invited to sign their names on the wall.
With plans for the apartment in Pensacola to be demolished or completely rehabbed shortly, the owners did not mind the scribbling on the walls, according to volunteer project directors Phil and Joan Taylor.
Now the Brethren Disaster Response project in Florida has moved to new quarters in Gulf Breeze, so the Disaster Wall has been left behind.
It will not be forgotten, however. A poster of the wall has been created by Glenn Riegel, a Brethren Disaster Response volunteer from Little Swatara Church of the Brethren. The 16-by-20 inch posters were displayed at Annual Conference in early July, and may be ordered from ersm_gb@brethren.org for $12 plus shipping and handling.
The wall also has been featured on Disaster News Network, in an article written by Susan Kim. Go to http://www.disasternews.net/news/news.php?articleid=3210.
Source: 8/2/2006 Newsline
top
Southern Plains District meets about ‘Love and Little Things.’
The Southern Plains District Conference met July 27-29 on the theme, "Love and Little Things Mean a Lot." Moderator Jack Graves presided over the meeting that included 19 registered delegates from 13 congregations spread over Oklahoma, New Mexico, Texas, and Louisiana. The report of the conference was received from district executive minister Joan Lowry.
Theme speaker was Belita Mitchell, Annual Conference moderator and pastor of First Church of the Brethren in Harrisburg, Pa. "This is going to be a great year in the life of this denomination," Lowry commented after hearing Mitchell speak.
Highlights of happenings around the district included the move of the district office, along with the Lowrys, to 1616 Rolling Stone Dr., Norman, OK, 73071. Thomas (Okla.) Church of the Brethren has been officially closed, and has been turned over to a small group called Family Faith Covenant. The church building in Waka, Texas, is up for sale. Lake Charles (La.) Community Church of the Brethren is beginning a pastoral search, and has paid off the church mortgage. The district’s Nurture/Witness group set dates for a Winter Rally and Board meeting for March 2-3, 2007 at Nocona. The Ministry Commission announced ordination candidates.
In addition, Spring Lake Camp and Retreat Center has a new look, Lowry reported. Since a fire in the spring, a new double cabin has been erected and a new cook’s cabin and handicapped accessible restroom. Lowry extended thanks to Ken and Kay Boyd and many volunteers who had helped the camp renovations near completion by the beginning of camping season.
In other events at the conference, a pastors’ training session was led by John Holderread on the book, "God's Original Intent for the Church." Other attendees enjoyed a session led by Kathy Reid of the Association of Brethren Caregivers on the subject, "How to Relate to People Who Are Hurting." The yearly auction topped off the event, along with "a little taste of Together conversations to wet our appetite for the session coming up Aug. 19-20," Lowry reported.
The next district conference is planned for July 26-27, 2007, at Clovis, N.M.
Source: 8/2/2006 Newsline
top
The Southern Plains District Conference met July 27-29 on the theme, "Love and Little Things Mean a Lot." Moderator Jack Graves presided over the meeting that included 19 registered delegates from 13 congregations spread over Oklahoma, New Mexico, Texas, and Louisiana. The report of the conference was received from district executive minister Joan Lowry.
Theme speaker was Belita Mitchell, Annual Conference moderator and pastor of First Church of the Brethren in Harrisburg, Pa. "This is going to be a great year in the life of this denomination," Lowry commented after hearing Mitchell speak.
Highlights of happenings around the district included the move of the district office, along with the Lowrys, to 1616 Rolling Stone Dr., Norman, OK, 73071. Thomas (Okla.) Church of the Brethren has been officially closed, and has been turned over to a small group called Family Faith Covenant. The church building in Waka, Texas, is up for sale. Lake Charles (La.) Community Church of the Brethren is beginning a pastoral search, and has paid off the church mortgage. The district’s Nurture/Witness group set dates for a Winter Rally and Board meeting for March 2-3, 2007 at Nocona. The Ministry Commission announced ordination candidates.
In addition, Spring Lake Camp and Retreat Center has a new look, Lowry reported. Since a fire in the spring, a new double cabin has been erected and a new cook’s cabin and handicapped accessible restroom. Lowry extended thanks to Ken and Kay Boyd and many volunteers who had helped the camp renovations near completion by the beginning of camping season.
In other events at the conference, a pastors’ training session was led by John Holderread on the book, "God's Original Intent for the Church." Other attendees enjoyed a session led by Kathy Reid of the Association of Brethren Caregivers on the subject, "How to Relate to People Who Are Hurting." The yearly auction topped off the event, along with "a little taste of Together conversations to wet our appetite for the session coming up Aug. 19-20," Lowry reported.
The next district conference is planned for July 26-27, 2007, at Clovis, N.M.
Source: 8/2/2006 Newsline
top
Historical marker to commemorate Brethren Annual Meetings.
The Indiana Historical Bureau will present a new historical marker to the town of North Manchester, Ind., commemorating Brethren Annual Meetings held there in 1878, 1888, and 1900. This is the first State Historical Marker to be awarded to the North Manchester area, and the first time any annual meeting of the Church of the Brethren has been so recognized, according to a report from William Eberly, retired faculty at Manchester College and a Brethren historian.
The project was initiated by the North Manchester Historical Society. The Brethren meetings were hosted by Manchester Church of the Brethren with much help from nearby Brethren churches and many community residents. The meetings attracted thousands of visitors to each week-long gathering, Eberly said.
The 1900 meeting attracted perhaps the largest crowds ever assembled at a Brethren conference, variously estimated as high as 60,000 on Sunday, June 3. "It might also have been the largest religious assembly ever held in Indiana up to that time," Eberly said. "You can imagine the impact of this crowd on this little rural town of barely 4,000 inhabitants. The demands for services (food, lodging, local transportation, etc.) were a tremendous challenge to local residents, both in town and in the surrounding rural area."
Two other Brethren annual meetings were held in North Manchester, one in 1929 and one in 1945, Eberly said. "The distinction is that the first three conferences were hosted in the name of the Manchester congregation, while the later conferences were more institutionalized and not the direct responsibility of a single congregation."
The historical marker will read, in part: "CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN FOUNDED 1708 IN EUROPE. BY 1778, BRETHREN MET ANNUALLY TO DETERMINE CHURCH POLICY. FIRST ANNUAL MEETING IN INDIANA WAS IN ELKHART COUNTY 1852. NORTH MANCHESTER CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN HOSTED ANNUAL MEETINGS 1878, 1888, 1900.... BUSINESS MEETINGS AND PREACHING BY PROMINENT BRETHREN LEADERS DREW THOUSANDS FROM U.S. IN A FAIR-LIKE ATMOSPHERE, VISITORS HAD ACCESS TO MODERN CONVENIENCES OF THE TIME, INCLUDING IN 1888, ELECTRIC LAMPS."
The marker will be located on the south side of the Harter’s Grove area where the last two Annual Meetings were held, now the City Park. The marker will be unveiled and dedicated on Aug. 11 at 9:30 a.m. Representatives of the Indiana Historical Bureau and the North Manchester Historical Society will be present along with church and community leaders. A choir will sing old-time, favorite hymns. At 11 a.m., an illustrated lecture on "The Social and Economic Impact of the Brethren's Annual Meetings in North Manchester" will be open to the public at the North Manchester Center for History.
Source: 8/2/2006 Newsline
top
The Indiana Historical Bureau will present a new historical marker to the town of North Manchester, Ind., commemorating Brethren Annual Meetings held there in 1878, 1888, and 1900. This is the first State Historical Marker to be awarded to the North Manchester area, and the first time any annual meeting of the Church of the Brethren has been so recognized, according to a report from William Eberly, retired faculty at Manchester College and a Brethren historian.
The project was initiated by the North Manchester Historical Society. The Brethren meetings were hosted by Manchester Church of the Brethren with much help from nearby Brethren churches and many community residents. The meetings attracted thousands of visitors to each week-long gathering, Eberly said.
The 1900 meeting attracted perhaps the largest crowds ever assembled at a Brethren conference, variously estimated as high as 60,000 on Sunday, June 3. "It might also have been the largest religious assembly ever held in Indiana up to that time," Eberly said. "You can imagine the impact of this crowd on this little rural town of barely 4,000 inhabitants. The demands for services (food, lodging, local transportation, etc.) were a tremendous challenge to local residents, both in town and in the surrounding rural area."
Two other Brethren annual meetings were held in North Manchester, one in 1929 and one in 1945, Eberly said. "The distinction is that the first three conferences were hosted in the name of the Manchester congregation, while the later conferences were more institutionalized and not the direct responsibility of a single congregation."
The historical marker will read, in part: "CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN FOUNDED 1708 IN EUROPE. BY 1778, BRETHREN MET ANNUALLY TO DETERMINE CHURCH POLICY. FIRST ANNUAL MEETING IN INDIANA WAS IN ELKHART COUNTY 1852. NORTH MANCHESTER CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN HOSTED ANNUAL MEETINGS 1878, 1888, 1900.... BUSINESS MEETINGS AND PREACHING BY PROMINENT BRETHREN LEADERS DREW THOUSANDS FROM U.S. IN A FAIR-LIKE ATMOSPHERE, VISITORS HAD ACCESS TO MODERN CONVENIENCES OF THE TIME, INCLUDING IN 1888, ELECTRIC LAMPS."
The marker will be located on the south side of the Harter’s Grove area where the last two Annual Meetings were held, now the City Park. The marker will be unveiled and dedicated on Aug. 11 at 9:30 a.m. Representatives of the Indiana Historical Bureau and the North Manchester Historical Society will be present along with church and community leaders. A choir will sing old-time, favorite hymns. At 11 a.m., an illustrated lecture on "The Social and Economic Impact of the Brethren's Annual Meetings in North Manchester" will be open to the public at the North Manchester Center for History.
Source: 8/2/2006 Newsline
top
Brethren bits: Remembrance, job opening, and much more.
top
- Thurl Metzger, a former executive director of Heifer International, passed away July 26 at the age of 90, at his home in Little Rock, Ark. Earlier this spring, Heifer had announced plans to dedicate a new Thurl Metzger Education Center on Aug. 4 at Heifer Ranch near Perryville, Ark. (see "Brethren leader Thurl Metzger to be honored by Heifer International" in the Newsline of June 21). Metzger served Heifer International for some 30 years as executive director, director of International Programs, and senior consultant, beginning in 1953; the Church of the Brethren started Heifer Project in 1944. As a Church of the Brethren leader previous to his service to Heifer, Metzger directed the Polish farm-youth exchange program of the Church of the Brethren Service Commission. Earlier he also worked as a farmer and a high school history teacher in Indiana. Metzger was the author of "The Road to Development," a book about the complexity of carrying out Heifer's vision. The two-story building at the Heifer Ranch that will be named in his honor will serve as an education facility, and also will house memorabilia from Heifer archives and the Metzgers’ personal collections.
- Bridgewater (Va.) College seeks a manager of technical services and network administrator to oversee technical aspects of information technology at the college. Primary responsibilities include managing the college network; managing campus systems/applications; serving as IT security officer; developing and maintaining custom scripting in support of system administration and dynamic web content; coordinating technical projects and staff; supervising network engineering and desktop computing support staff. Qualifications include skills in customer service, oral and written communication, and organization; bachelor’s degree in a related field with an advanced degree preferred; ten years of experience in network administration, IT security, desktop computing, and management in technical environments; mastery of Windows, Solaris, Linux administration; teamwork skills and experience in a collaborative environment; extensive troubleshooting experience. Experience working in higher education is highly desired. Review of resumes will continue until the position is filled. For the complete announcement go to www.bridgewater.edu/campus_info/jobs/itc_network2006.html. For more information contact Terry Houff, Chief Information Officer and Director of IT Center, at thouff@bridgewater.edu. A completed application will include cover letter, resume, and contact information for at least three letters of references, to be sent to Vikki Price, Director of Human Resources, 402 E. College St., Bridgewater, VA 22812; or sent by e-mail (preferred) to vprice@bridgewater.edu. Bridgewater is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer.
- Stan Noffsinger, general secretary of the General Board, has completed his move to Elgin, Ill., following a decision by the General Board for all executive-level staff to work from the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin. He previously divided his work between the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., and the offices in Elgin. Contact him at Church of the Brethren General Board, General Secretary’s Office, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120; 800-323-8039 or 847-742-5100 ext. 201.
- The Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC) inadvertently included incorrect information regarding airport shuttle service in its confirmation letters to participants at National Older Adult Conference (NOAC) this fall. Correct information follows: Airport shuttle service is available from the Asheville airport to Lake Junaluska through First Class Transportation. To receive the conference discount call 828-452-2907 and tell Leslie that you are attending NOAC. Cost is $60 round-trip or $55 one way. Cash or check is preferred, credit card transactions will be surcharged $5. Those who have already made reservations through the number previously given will not receive a negotiated discount--individuals have been quoted rates ranging from $70 to $90. It is possible to cancel and schedule with First Class Transportation instead. Correct information for the airport shuttle service is posted at www.brethren-caregivers.org and postcards with the information will be sent to those already registered for NOAC. For further information call ABC at 800-323-8039.
- The Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., hosted a junior high workcamp in mid-July. Workcampers volunteered in Service Ministries, SERRV International, and the Service Center’s buildings and grounds department. They also provided service to employees based in New Windsor by doing a free car wash. Monica Rice, Kim Stuckey Hissong, and the other adult leaders planned a diverse and fun learning opportunity. All of the agencies housed at the center appreciated the work of the young volunteers, reported Kathleen Campanella, director of public relations and hospitality. The New Windsor Conference Center provided ice cream for the workcampers after dinner on the last evening as a way to say thank you.
- Chiques Church of the Brethren in Manheim, Pa., celebrates its 150th anniversary in August. The history of the congregation began as Brethren in the Mastersonville area of Pennsylvania originally worshiped in homes as part of the White Oak congregation. In 1856, the first meetinghouse was erected on the site of the current church building. Twelve years later, Chiques became an independent congregation. In 1902 it spawned three daughter churches: East Fairview, Elizabethtown, and West Green Tree. The celebration will include two special services, a historical display, and a series of Sunday school lessons on church history. On Sunday, Aug. 13, worship at 10:15 a.m. will be in a style familiar to the congregation more than 100 years ago: Don Fitzkee and Becker Ginder will preach the "long" and "short" sermons, respectively; singing will be a cappella; and men and women are asked to sit on opposite sides of the sanctuary. A "150th Anniversary Celebration of Music" will be held at 7 p.m. that evening. For more information contact Fitzkee at 664-2252 or don@cobys.net.
- Iowa River Church of the Brethren in Marshalltown, Iowa, celebrated 150 years on July 9 with a special worship service and meal. The church is celebrating the anniversary "because we are a group of people who love each other even in spite of everyone not being the same," church member Jerry Waterman told the "Times-Republican" newspaper of central Iowa. "We all have a universal understanding that Christ needs to be first in our lives and we are celebrating that opportunity."
- Root River Church of the Brethren near Greenleafton, Minn., held its 150th anniversary on July 8-9 to honor a century and a half of spreading peace and serving those in need, reported the "Chatfield News-Record" newspaper. The church expected about 150 people for the event, which included a youth concert by a local Christian rock band "RE:BORN" and a historical display, sale of anniversary plates, neighborhood tours, open mic sharing, and worship.
- Dranesville Church of the Brethren in Herndon, Va., along with Herndon Friends Meeting and Northern Virginia Mennonite Church, are instituting a Peacemaker Award for outstanding peacemaking and community building efforts by a Herndon High School student, according to an article in the "Fairfax County Times." This June the award went to Harrison Miller, a senior at the high school.
- A $500 Skippack Peace Award from Skippack Church of the Brethren in Collegeville, Pa., was given to Allison Gold, a recent Perkiomen Valley High School graduate, according to the "Valley Item" newspaper. "The award is for somebody who had waged peace through random acts of kindness throughout the high school years, and Allison filled those criteria," Skippack pastor Larry O’Neill told the paper. "The money for the award is raised when parishioners drop change and bills into a plastic bear named ‘Skippy’ located at the rear of the church," the article said.
- Michigan District holds its district conference on Aug. 10-13 in Hastings, Mich. Moderator Mary Gault will preside.
- Brethren Village Retirement Community in Lancaster, Pa., holds its 48th Annual Pork Barbecue and Auction on Aug. 5. The day begins at 9 a.m. with a sale of baked goods along with an antique engine exhibit, and continues with a vintage and antique car display, morning devotional service and men’s choir at 10:30 a.m., and an 11 a.m. book signing by Rachel Brown, author of "Adoration Quilts." A pork barbecue meal will be served from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. The main auction begins at 12:30 p.m., with registration at 11:30 a.m. Main auction items include hand-made quilts and baby quilts, afghans, and wall hangings; antique items including quilts; wooden crafts, carvings, and furniture; children’s toys; gift baskets and fruit baskets; vacation property timeshares; and various gift certificates for dining and entertainment. A children’s auction at 2 p.m. features games and toys, Boyd’s bears, and radio controlled cars. Proceeds benefit the Brethren Village Good Samaritan Fund providing assistance to residents who find themselves unable to pay the full cost of their care, and to the resident-run Brethren Village Auxiliary.
- Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind., is sending two Brethren faculty to Europe next year to do research as Fulbright Scholars. Gregory W. Clark, associate professor of Physics, will work at Cardiff University in Wales on nano-science research involving conducting polymer (plastic) molecules. Steven S. Naragon, associate professor of Philosophy, will translate student notes from 18th century philosopher Kant's metaphysics lectures, in Marburg, Germany. Both attend Manchester Church of the Brethren. Recent Manchester graduate Wendy Matheny, raised in First Church of the Brethren in Peoria, Ill., also received a Fulbright scholarship to research politics at the European Union and NATO in Belgium. Matheny has been studying Capitol Hill politics as an intern for US Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton since her graduation from Manchester last year. Hers is Manchester College's 19th Fulbright in 11 years, the college said in a release. For more go to www.manchester.edu.
- Peggy Redman, director of Teacher Education at the University of La Verne (Calif.), has been honored with the university’s first endowed chair in Education, the Anthony La Fetra Endowed Chair for Excellence in Teaching and Service. The university is related to the Church of the Brethren. "Redman’s office in ULV’s College of Education is the birthplace of teachers," said an article in the university’s "Voice" magazine. Her program received commendation in a recent report by the Institute for Education Reform, the article added, in which the results of a survey of first-year teachers who graduated from private universities in California and their supervisors "revealed that ULV-trained teachers were far better prepared to enter live teaching than their counterparts." In the survey, La Verne graduates and supervisors responded an average of 12 percent more favorably than graduates of nine other private universities, the article said.
- The Midwest Peacemakers 2006 conference will be at the Brethren Retirement Community in Greenville, Ohio, on Aug. 19 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. The theme will be "Nonviolence Is Christ-Like, Difficult, Powerful, Profound, and Surprising." Presenters include Cliff Kindy of Christian Peacemaker Teams speaking on "Iraq Through the Eyes of a Christian Peacemaker"; Pete Dull on ministry with prisoners and ex-prisoners in the Dayton area; and John Ellison on "What Conscientious Objectors Have Been Doing with Their Lives." Ellison has been touring the country interviewing people "who early on refused to bear arms and since have helped the poor, bound up wounds, preached salvation, encouraged kindness, visited prisoners, and told the story of nonviolence through painting, words, and music," according to a release. The event includes a carry-in dinner, a panel discussion, and worship. A free-will offering will be taken. For more information contact 614-794-2745 or cfcooley@wmconnect.com.
- On June 18 the CrossRoads Welcome Center in Harrisonburg, Va., was officially opened to the public with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The center is dedicated to Brethren and Mennonite history and heritage. James Miller represented Shenandoah District of the Church of the Brethren, and Steve Carpenter represented the Virginia Conference of Mennonite Church USA. Following a welcome by board president Robert Alley, Program Committee chair Norwood Shank gave thanks to the Myers family--and to God--for bringing the organization to this point in its journey. The Daniel Myers family donated the Burkholder-Myers House and paid to have it moved to its new location. Shank expressed a "heartfelt thank you" to all who contributed to the effort. CrossRoads also is publicizing a reunion for all conscientious objectors who served in Civilian Public Service during World War II, on Aug. 17, 1-7 p.m., with speakers Harold Lehman and Ted Grimsrud. The event will be at Park View Mennonite Church in Harrisonburg, Va. For more go to www.vbmhc.org.
- The National Council of Churches (NCC) is calling for ecumenical films through its Faith and Order Commission, which will hold its first-ever Oikumene Film Festival next year on July 19-23, 2007, in Oberlin, Ohio. The festival celebrates the commission’s 50th anniversary. Filmmakers are invited to submit original short films that serve the unity of Christ’s church. Six winning entries will be chosen for screening during the conference. Entries, including the film and completed entry form, are due by Feb. 16, 2007. For more visit www.ncccusa.org/faithandorder/oberlin2007/oikumene.html.
top
Bethany Seminary offers a workshop about online teaching.
Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Ind., is offering an online workshop to help participants become more effective teachers and learners in a technological society. The workshop is for those who may serve as online adjunct faculty in Bethany’s graduate program, as well as others who wish to immerse themselves in questions regarding online learning whether as instructors or students.
"Introduction to Online Teaching: A Six-Week Workshop for Bethany Seminary Instructors and Others" will be offered Oct. 23-Dec. 8. The six-week workshop is designed to equip participants with the awareness and skills needed to successfully facilitate online learning as a course instructor. Successful completion of the workshop will satisfy the online experience component required to teach Bethany and Brethren Academy online coursework. Instructors are Enten Eller, director of Distributed Education and Electronic Communication at Bethany, and Susan Jeffers, online faculty at Bethany.
Participants will learn to identify the unique challenges presented by online learning; incorporate teaching methods that can address the challenges and facilitate deep learning in an online environment; design an online lesson that incorporates some of those methods; and use Bethany's "Moodle" course management software to present that lesson.
Assignments may be completed throughout each week according to participants’ own schedules. There will be one required text, "Building Learning Communities in Cyberspace: Effective Strategies for the Online Classroom" (Jossey-Bass, 1999), by Rena M. Palloff and Keith Pratt, and additional readings. Participants are to prepare a syllabus of a course that they wish to present online, with which they will work throughout the workshop. Participation in course work, including online discussions and some writing, is required.
A full syllabus will be available four weeks prior to the workshop. Cost is $495, with scholarship funds available to qualified people. Continuing education units are available on request. For more information contact Eller at Connections@BethanySeminary.edu or 800-287-8822.
Source: 8/2/2006 Newsline
top
Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Ind., is offering an online workshop to help participants become more effective teachers and learners in a technological society. The workshop is for those who may serve as online adjunct faculty in Bethany’s graduate program, as well as others who wish to immerse themselves in questions regarding online learning whether as instructors or students.
"Introduction to Online Teaching: A Six-Week Workshop for Bethany Seminary Instructors and Others" will be offered Oct. 23-Dec. 8. The six-week workshop is designed to equip participants with the awareness and skills needed to successfully facilitate online learning as a course instructor. Successful completion of the workshop will satisfy the online experience component required to teach Bethany and Brethren Academy online coursework. Instructors are Enten Eller, director of Distributed Education and Electronic Communication at Bethany, and Susan Jeffers, online faculty at Bethany.
Participants will learn to identify the unique challenges presented by online learning; incorporate teaching methods that can address the challenges and facilitate deep learning in an online environment; design an online lesson that incorporates some of those methods; and use Bethany's "Moodle" course management software to present that lesson.
Assignments may be completed throughout each week according to participants’ own schedules. There will be one required text, "Building Learning Communities in Cyberspace: Effective Strategies for the Online Classroom" (Jossey-Bass, 1999), by Rena M. Palloff and Keith Pratt, and additional readings. Participants are to prepare a syllabus of a course that they wish to present online, with which they will work throughout the workshop. Participation in course work, including online discussions and some writing, is required.
A full syllabus will be available four weeks prior to the workshop. Cost is $495, with scholarship funds available to qualified people. Continuing education units are available on request. For more information contact Eller at Connections@BethanySeminary.edu or 800-287-8822.
Source: 8/2/2006 Newsline
top
New conscientious objector packets are available.
The Brethren Witness/Washington Office has introduced new conscientious objection material for youth and congregations. Resources included in previous conscientious objection packets have been updated and converted to electronic files and are available on a CD in the new packet.
Resources include materials on political advocacy and peace, biblical guidance for peacemaking, information on the potential for a draft, and steps on how youth can register as a conscientious objector to war. Other materials on the CD include "The Peace Book" produced by the Brethren Witness/Washington Office, counter-recruitment efforts against military recruitment, and volunteer opportunities.
Also included is an eight-section DVD with a study guide on issues of civil disobedience, the history of conscientious objectors and the military draft. A mock draft board is presented by the Brethren Witness/Washington Office.
The resources are provided to assist districts, congregations and youth leaders to young people think through issues of conscience. The CD and DVD are designed to help facilitate conversation, reflection, and action among youth, parents, congregations, and communities.
The new conscientious objector packets are available by contacting 800-785-3246 or Washington_office_gb@brethren.org. A suggested donation of $10 per packet will help cover costs. The Brethren Witness/Washington Office is a ministry of the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Source: 8/2/2006 Newsline
top
The Brethren Witness/Washington Office has introduced new conscientious objection material for youth and congregations. Resources included in previous conscientious objection packets have been updated and converted to electronic files and are available on a CD in the new packet.
Resources include materials on political advocacy and peace, biblical guidance for peacemaking, information on the potential for a draft, and steps on how youth can register as a conscientious objector to war. Other materials on the CD include "The Peace Book" produced by the Brethren Witness/Washington Office, counter-recruitment efforts against military recruitment, and volunteer opportunities.
Also included is an eight-section DVD with a study guide on issues of civil disobedience, the history of conscientious objectors and the military draft. A mock draft board is presented by the Brethren Witness/Washington Office.
The resources are provided to assist districts, congregations and youth leaders to young people think through issues of conscience. The CD and DVD are designed to help facilitate conversation, reflection, and action among youth, parents, congregations, and communities.
The new conscientious objector packets are available by contacting 800-785-3246 or Washington_office_gb@brethren.org. A suggested donation of $10 per packet will help cover costs. The Brethren Witness/Washington Office is a ministry of the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Source: 8/2/2006 Newsline
top
Credits
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board. Contact the editor at cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. J. Allen Brubaker, Kathleen Campanella, William Eberly, Don Fitzkee, Todd Flory, Phil Jones, Jeri Kornegay, Joan Lowry, and Helen Stonesifer contributed to this report.
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board. Contact the editor at cobnews@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 260. J. Allen Brubaker, Kathleen Campanella, William Eberly, Don Fitzkee, Todd Flory, Phil Jones, Jeri Kornegay, Joan Lowry, and Helen Stonesifer contributed to this report.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)