Vietnamese and American friends come together in Ho Chi Minh City.
The following refection by David Morrissey was provided by Grace Mishler, program volunteer working on behalf of Global Mission Partnerships in Vietnam.
In March, I had the honor to be invited to visit Vietnam with a diverse group of Americans brought together by Common Cause, the Ford Foundation, and the Aspen Institute. This small delegation spent five days looking at the legacy of the Vietnam War: Agent Orange and its effect on the environment and people. For me, this was an important opportunity to lend a disability rights perspective to these explorations. This was also an exciting opportunity for me to return to Vietnam. In 2006, while in graduate school, I spent the summer living in Ho Chi Minh City working with grassroots disability advocates and conducting a survey of the experiences and outlook among the Vietnamese disabled.
This was my first chance to return to Vietnam since publishing a paper of my research findings, "Voices of Persons with Disabilities in Vietnam," and I hoped that this short visit would be a chance to see my old contacts and supporters and share with them the product of our work together. With the help of friends Grace Mishler and Tran Ba Thien, a lunch was arranged for my first day in the country. I was honored that many old friends and colleagues there came together on a Sunday afternoon.
It was like a reunion, but not only for me to see these friends after five years, but for many of these activists to see each other too. Living in one of the world's largest cities, its motorbike fast pace, where my friends are working hard to advance the status of people with disabilities in Vietnamese society, it can be difficult to connect. In a garden beside the river Saigon, we took the time and did just that, embracing and catching up on our families and work. We went around and everyone shared their current efforts in organizing disability empowerment projects, and later I read them small portions from my paper, the "voices" of their brothers and sisters. The discussion then turned to planning, for these local activists to discuss future meetings, collaborations, and how to build solidarity among Vietnamese with disabilities. I am thrilled that this lunch became the opportunity for new energy and collaboration in the movement.
- David Morrissey is the executive director of the United States International Council on Disabilities (USICD) in Washington, D.C.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
A Prayer is offered for all tornado survivors.
This prayer was written by Glenn Kinsel, a long time volunteer for Brethren Disaster Ministries, in response to the devastation created by the recent tornados.
"Dear God and Father of all, help us to fully understand that the struggles of one person become the pain of all, especially for those of us who follow Jesus Christ. Please, God, work in us and through us so that we indeed sense the pain and suffering of all those caught in storms and struggles of this time in our nation and on this planet. In it all, help us to feel pain even as it exists in those whom we know only as storm survivors. May the peace and care of Jesus Christ be felt and shared in the minds and hearts of our great human family everywhere. In the name of the living Christ whom we worship this Easter Season, Amen."
This prayer was written by Glenn Kinsel, a long time volunteer for Brethren Disaster Ministries, in response to the devastation created by the recent tornados.
"Dear God and Father of all, help us to fully understand that the struggles of one person become the pain of all, especially for those of us who follow Jesus Christ. Please, God, work in us and through us so that we indeed sense the pain and suffering of all those caught in storms and struggles of this time in our nation and on this planet. In it all, help us to feel pain even as it exists in those whom we know only as storm survivors. May the peace and care of Jesus Christ be felt and shared in the minds and hearts of our great human family everywhere. In the name of the living Christ whom we worship this Easter Season, Amen."
Congregational Life Ministry Fair to be held at Annual Conference.
Some of the events at the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference, Grand Rapids, Mich. July 2-6 are changing and questions have been raised. "What happened to the Congregational Life dinner?" "Is there no Deacon Luncheon this year?" The new Congregational Life Ministry Fair will debut on Monday, July 4. It's designed to expand both of these events. As a 'fair,' this new event will provide the opportunity for participants to move from table to table to talk with others involved or interested in the same ministry areas you are, whether that be deacons, evangelism, children's ministry, older adults, board chair, or many others - a total of fifteen in all. Since most people wear multiple hats in their congregations, we thought it important to allow time for conversation with people in more than one ministry area. Register for the Fair under 'Meal Tickets' as a part of the Annual Conference registration.
-Donna Kline, Director, Deacon Ministries
Some of the events at the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference, Grand Rapids, Mich. July 2-6 are changing and questions have been raised. "What happened to the Congregational Life dinner?" "Is there no Deacon Luncheon this year?" The new Congregational Life Ministry Fair will debut on Monday, July 4. It's designed to expand both of these events. As a 'fair,' this new event will provide the opportunity for participants to move from table to table to talk with others involved or interested in the same ministry areas you are, whether that be deacons, evangelism, children's ministry, older adults, board chair, or many others - a total of fifteen in all. Since most people wear multiple hats in their congregations, we thought it important to allow time for conversation with people in more than one ministry area. Register for the Fair under 'Meal Tickets' as a part of the Annual Conference registration.
-Donna Kline, Director, Deacon Ministries
Early registration for Annual Conference Children's Activities ends on June 6.
Annual Conference experiences always have been fulfilling and exciting for youth and children, and this year is no exception. The Grand Rapids, Michigan, activities include the Public Museum, a West Michigan Food Bank service project, a Ken Medema concert, the Michigan Adventure amusement/waterpark, presenters, crafts, music, and recreation.
All children and youth must be registered for Annual Conference, and early registration (before June 6) for Age Group Activities helps the coordinators plan for the number of participants and is less expensive than registering onsite in Grand Rapids. The advance registration fee is $30 for ages 12-21 (not included in the Annual Conference Registration Fee). Children under 12 are free but do need to be registered to receive a nametag.
Completed Medical Record and Permission Form, appropriate for the age group, are required, to be mailed to Annual Conference, 1451 Dundee Avenue, Elgin, IL, 60120.
Online registration and forms are at www.brethren.org/ac
Annual Conference experiences always have been fulfilling and exciting for youth and children, and this year is no exception. The Grand Rapids, Michigan, activities include the Public Museum, a West Michigan Food Bank service project, a Ken Medema concert, the Michigan Adventure amusement/waterpark, presenters, crafts, music, and recreation.
All children and youth must be registered for Annual Conference, and early registration (before June 6) for Age Group Activities helps the coordinators plan for the number of participants and is less expensive than registering onsite in Grand Rapids. The advance registration fee is $30 for ages 12-21 (not included in the Annual Conference Registration Fee). Children under 12 are free but do need to be registered to receive a nametag.
Completed Medical Record and Permission Form, appropriate for the age group, are required, to be mailed to Annual Conference, 1451 Dundee Avenue, Elgin, IL, 60120.
Online registration and forms are at www.brethren.org/ac
Children's Disaster Services to hold workshops in Hawaii
Children's Disaster Services is partnering with Hawaii State Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster (HS VOAD) to provide free workshops to train volunteers to meet the unique needs of children following a disaster. The 30-hour workshops are being held on all major islands. Participants arrive at 5:00 p.m. on day one, sleep overnight in the facility, and leave the second day at about 7:00 p.m. All meals and supplies are provided. Workshops will be held at the following locations:
Oahu, April 25-26, Camp Homelani, Waialua
Kauai, April 28-29, Breath of Life Church, Lihue
Hilo, May 1-2, Location to be announced
Kona, May 4-5, Location to be announced
Maui, May 6-7, Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Kahului
For more information or to register for these workshops contact: Diane L. Reece at (808) 681-1410, Fax: (808) 440-4710, Email: dreece@cfs-hawaii.org
Children's Disaster Services is a Church of the Brethren ministry working cooperatively with FEMA and the American Red Cross to provide care for children and families following disasters. The program has been meeting the needs of children since 1980. A national network of trained and screened volunteers is maintained, ready to respond whenever a disaster strikes.
Children's Disaster Services is partnering with Hawaii State Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster (HS VOAD) to provide free workshops to train volunteers to meet the unique needs of children following a disaster. The 30-hour workshops are being held on all major islands. Participants arrive at 5:00 p.m. on day one, sleep overnight in the facility, and leave the second day at about 7:00 p.m. All meals and supplies are provided. Workshops will be held at the following locations:
Oahu, April 25-26, Camp Homelani, Waialua
Kauai, April 28-29, Breath of Life Church, Lihue
Hilo, May 1-2, Location to be announced
Kona, May 4-5, Location to be announced
Maui, May 6-7, Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Kahului
For more information or to register for these workshops contact: Diane L. Reece at (808) 681-1410, Fax: (808) 440-4710, Email: dreece@cfs-hawaii.org
Children's Disaster Services is a Church of the Brethren ministry working cooperatively with FEMA and the American Red Cross to provide care for children and families following disasters. The program has been meeting the needs of children since 1980. A national network of trained and screened volunteers is maintained, ready to respond whenever a disaster strikes.
Study Papers for Christian Understanding
Five study papers on Christian understanding were written for and presented at the 2010 National Council of Churches (NCC) and Church World Service General Assembly. These papers served as the focus for discussions throughout the Assembly. Church of the Brethren General Secretary Stan Noffsinger describes the papers as "thought-inspiring and provocative resources, which should be made available for each member communion's leadership and congregations."
According to the National Council of Churches, the papers "draw on the common heritage which Christians and their churches share, the richness of which is found in scripture and tradition."
Study guides are being developed to accompany each of these papers. The first of these papers and its accompanying study guide, Christian Understanding of Unity in an Age of Radical Diversity, has been posted on the General Secretary's web page. Brethren pastor and former District Executive Minister Mark Flory-Steury wrote the study guide, and will also write three of the others. Leadership for a second study guide, on War in an Age of Terror[ism], was given by Jordan Blevins, Advocacy Officer and Ecumenical Peace Coordinator for the Church of the Brethren and the National Council of Churches.
Other titles to be made available in the coming months are:
Go to www.brethren.org/site/PageServer?pagename=NCC_StudyPapers to download copies of these documents.
Five study papers on Christian understanding were written for and presented at the 2010 National Council of Churches (NCC) and Church World Service General Assembly. These papers served as the focus for discussions throughout the Assembly. Church of the Brethren General Secretary Stan Noffsinger describes the papers as "thought-inspiring and provocative resources, which should be made available for each member communion's leadership and congregations."According to the National Council of Churches, the papers "draw on the common heritage which Christians and their churches share, the richness of which is found in scripture and tradition."
Study guides are being developed to accompany each of these papers. The first of these papers and its accompanying study guide, Christian Understanding of Unity in an Age of Radical Diversity, has been posted on the General Secretary's web page. Brethren pastor and former District Executive Minister Mark Flory-Steury wrote the study guide, and will also write three of the others. Leadership for a second study guide, on War in an Age of Terror[ism], was given by Jordan Blevins, Advocacy Officer and Ecumenical Peace Coordinator for the Church of the Brethren and the National Council of Churches.
Other titles to be made available in the coming months are:
- "Christian Understanding of Mission in an Age of Interfaith Relations"
- "Christian Understanding of Creation in an Age of Environmental Crisis"
- "Christian Understanding of the Economy in an Age of Growing Inequality"
Go to www.brethren.org/site/PageServer?pagename=NCC_StudyPapers to download copies of these documents.
Church of the Brethren provides resources to help end childhood obesity.
The Church of the Brethren is gearing up to end childhood obesity - in a very Brethren way, of course! As we participate in the national Let's Move! Initiative, our efforts will be organized around how we can face this challenge peacefully, simply, together. Each of the next three months you will find new ideas and resources posted at www.brethren.org/letsmove -- check out April's peacefully pages today, and share this information with everyone who cares about the health and future of our children. And be sure to use the link on the page to share your stories with us so we can celebrate our successes together!
-Donna Kline,Director, Deacon Ministries
The Church of the Brethren is gearing up to end childhood obesity - in a very Brethren way, of course! As we participate in the national Let's Move! Initiative, our efforts will be organized around how we can face this challenge peacefully, simply, together. Each of the next three months you will find new ideas and resources posted at www.brethren.org/letsmove -- check out April's peacefully pages today, and share this information with everyone who cares about the health and future of our children. And be sure to use the link on the page to share your stories with us so we can celebrate our successes together!-Donna Kline,Director, Deacon Ministries
Brethren bits corrections, job openings, upcoming events and more.
- Correction - An incomplete telephone number was included in last Newsline for Church World Service staff member Lesley Crosson. The correct number is 212-870-2676
- Jan Fischer Bachman, website producer for the Church of the Brethren, reports that a technical issue has been resolved that affected some individuals who tried to sign up for e-mail publications. "Our apologies if you wanted to receive messages and have not gotten them until now!" Please contact cobweb@brethren.org with questions or for more information.
- The Youth and Young Adult Office is delighted to announce the assistant coordinators for the 2012 workcamp ministry, Catherine Gong and Rachel Witkovsky. Assistant coordinators serve through BVS in the Elgin office from September-May, planning for summer workcamps. During the summer, they are on the road, leading workcamps for junior highs through young adults. Catherine is graduating from Pennsylvania State University this spring. Rachel is a graduate of Elizabethtown College. Both bring a passion for service and a desire to share this with the youth of our denomination.
- Lina Dagnew, editorial assistant for the Gather 'Round curriculum, has resigned her position effective May 20. She will return to her home in Ethiopia for the summer and come back to the United States in the fall to attend Harvard Law School. We will miss Lina very much but are proud of her accomplishments and wish her the very best in her future endeavors.
- The Gather 'Round is seeking an individual to fill a 40-hour-per-week position at their offices in Elgin, IL. Position is available May 16, 2011.
The editorial assistant supports the editorial and marketing arms of the curriculum project, working closely with the managing editor and project director. He or she proofreads; coordinates contracts and payments for illustrators, designers, writers, and photographers; researches and requests permissions for use of copyrighted material; serves as a liaison to denominational customer service staff and the public; produces spreadsheets and other reports; assembles a monthly e-newsletter; coordinates logistics for writers conferences and other meetings; and performs general office duties. The editorial assistant also maintains and updates the Gather Round website and troubleshoots web download orders.
For a full position description candidates are invited to request the application packet from:
Office of Human Resources
Church of the Brethren
1451 Dundee Avenue
Elgin, IL 60120-1694
Phone: 1-800-323-8039, ext 258
E-mail: kkrog@brethren.org - The Valley Brethren-Mennonite Heritage Center (www.vbmhc.org) invites applications for the position of full-time Executive Director. The successful candidate should have expertise in fundraising, marketing, administration, public relations, volunteer coordination, and interpreting the vision of the Center to the church and community. The Director should be committed to the heritage which Brethren and Mennonites share, especially in the Shenandoah Valley. Salary and benefits as determined by the Board of Directors. Send letter of application, resume, and three recommendations to Beryl H. Brubaker, Chair, Search Committee, 965 Broadview Drive, Harrisonburg, VA, 22802 (brubakeb@emu.edu). Position open until filled.
- Church World Service (CWS) is seeking applications for the position of Associate Director Pre-Arrival. This position, located in New York, NY, manages the pre-arrival component of refugee placement and resettlement for CWS. Required qualifications include a college degree in a related field and extensive experience in refugee processing and staff supervision.
Submit resumes by May 13, 2011, to Church World Service, Attn: Karen de Lopez, P.O. Box 968, Elkhart, IN 46515; or e-mail to cwshr@churchworldservice.org; or fax to (574) 266-0087.
For details on this and other employment opportunities with Church World Service, log on to www.churchworldservice.org/site/PageServer?pagename=employment_main#134. - A statement by the National Religious Campaign Against Torture (NRCAT) called "Protecting Everybody From Torture: Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture (OPCAT) " has been endorsed by Stan Noffsinger, general secretary of the Church of the Brethren. The Statement includes a list of the 51 senior religious leaders who have endorsed the statement. OPCAT is a U.N. Treaty that would help prevent torture around the world. Information on the work of NRCAT is available at www.tortureisamoralissue.org.
- Two grants were approved from the Emergency Disaster Fund. An additional allocation of $30,000 for continued work at the Ashland City, Tennessee, work project, established following devastating floods of May 2010. This EDF grant will support BDM's continuing work in Cheatham County and surrounding areas by providing the opportunity to assist in the repair and rebuilding of homes for qualified individuals and families. Funds will be used to underwrite operational expenses related to volunteer support, including housing, food, travel expenses incurred on site, as well as volunteer training, tools and equipment needed for rebuilding and repair. Previous allocations to this project total $25,000.
Additional funds were provided in the amount of $65,000 for the BDM program at Hurricane Katrina rebuilding site #4 in Chalmette, Louisiana. Since doubling volunteer capacity in the summer of 2008, BDM's monthly expenses have nearly doubled as well. This allocation will help carry the project from January 2011 through its projected closing in June 2011. The funds will continue to assist in the repair and rebuilding of homes, as well as provide volunteer support including travel expenses, leadership training, tools and equipment, and food and housing. Previous allocations to this project total $400,000. - Several Church of the Brethren District Disaster Auctions will be held in May to benefit Brethren Disaster Ministries. 31st Annual Mid-Atlantic District Disaster Response Auction will be held on May 7, 2011 at the Carroll County Agricultural Center, Shipley Arena in Westminster, Maryland. 19th Annual Disaster Ministries Auction is scheduled for May 20 & 21 at the Rockingham County Fairgrounds in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
- Fahrney-Keedy Home & Village, a five-star-rated Continuing Care Retirement Community on a 90-acre campus near Boonsboro, Md., will host a Spring Open House on Saturday, May 14, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Guests will receive tours of the village, meet the staff and have the opportunity to take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the community. Gourmet refreshments will be provided.
"We are very excited for our guests to see firsthand the lifestyle at Fahrney-Keedy," said Keith R. Bryan, President/CEO. "They will be very impressed at the full range of retirement opportunities, including single-family homes and apartments, assisted living studios and our highly acclaimed skilled nursing center."
To RSVP or to obtain additional information, call 301-671-5015 or 301-671-5016 or visit www.fkhv.org.
Located on Maryland Route 66, Fahrney-Keedy has nearly 180 full- and part-time employees. It serves a resident population of almost 200 women and men in independent living, assisted living and long- and short-term nursing care. Fahrney-Keedy is committed to enhancing the lives of seniors through caring quality service. - Jeff Carter, pastor of the Manassas (Va.) Church of the Brethren gave the opening invocation for the US Senate on Thursday, April 7, 2011. He was nominated by Senator Webb of Virginia and accepted as a guest chaplain by Rev. Dr. Black, Chaplain of the US Senate.
- McPherson College has announced a $1.2 million anonymous gift for their visionary new Transformative Entrepreneurship Minor, available for the first time this fall as an essential part of every field of study.
A top priority of the process will be to fund a new Director of Entrepreneurship, who will provide direction and guidance for liberal arts and entrepreneurship programming, creating new programs as well as leading those already in existence. Current programs include the Horizon Fund, providing micro-grants of up to $500 to any McPherson College student with an entrepreneurial idea, and the Global Enterprise Challenge, in which students develop sustainable ventures to help in Haiti. The grant also will support faculty training and curriculum development in entrepreneurship.
The purpose of this program is to allow all students the opportunity to study entrepreneurship within any major. Faculty of all academic areas has ownership in this cross-disciplinary minor. Students' required hours will be divided between core courses on entrepreneurship essentials and selected liberal arts courses.
McPherson College is a four-year private liberal arts college in central Kansas, associated with the Church of the Brethren, committed to the ideals of scholarship, participation, and service. -- Adam Pracht, Coordinator of development Communications, McPherson College prachta@mcpherson.edu, www.mcpherson.edu - 2011 Pennsylvania Science Olympiad Finals to be held on the campus of Juniata College, Friday, April 29, 2011, "The 20th anniversary of bringing Science Olympiad to Juniata has meant that we have been able to get the cream of the crop of talented science students from across Pennsylvania," says Ron Pauline, professor emeritus of education and Science Olympiad state tournament site director. "The visiting students can see our campus and consider going here to use our excellent science facilities. Juniata is honored to have hosted the state finals for such a long time and also serve as the site for the national finals in 2004." The students from 70 high schools and middle schools across Pennsylvania will compete across campus at sites such as the von Liebig Center for Science, Knox Stadium, the Kennedy Sports and Recreation Center, and the lawn behind Ellis Hall. The 2011 Science Olympiad begins at 8:30 a.m. and continues throughout the day, ending with an awards ceremony at approximately 4:15 p.m. in the sports center's main gym. More than 1,000 students will compete.
Science Olympiad is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of science education, increasing student interest in science and recognizing outstanding achievements in science education. Contact: John Wall office: (814) 641-3132 e-mail: wallj@juniata.edu - Elizabethtown College Theatre presents staged readings of fresh, new, short plays at 8 p.m., Friday, April 29, and Saturday, April 30, in the College's Tempest Theatre. Tickets for the productions, which are open to the public, can be purchased for $4 through the Theatre Box Office by calling 717-361-1170 or sending a request via e-mail to boxoffice@etown.edu. The two nights include a total of 13 readings of plays written or directed by students in the College's Playwriting class. The plays also are directed by students from the College. Contact: Michael Swanson, coordinator of Theatre and Dance, at swansonm@etown.edu.
- An Easter Season Spiritual Disciplines folder which coordinates with Sunday worship scriptures of the Brethren bulletin series is being posted on the Springs of Living Water web site at www.churchrenewalservant.org under the Springs button. Entitled "Born Anew to a Living Hope" from I Peter 1:3, the folder has topics for Sunday morning worship and daily scripture readings that build to the next Sunday.
The insert is an invitation to go deeper in spiritual disciplines according to God's leading. Vince Cable, pastor of the Uniontown Church of the Brethren south of Pittsburgh, has written Bible study questions for individuals or small groups Bible study and they are also on the Springs website.
The Springs of Living Water Initiative in Church Renewal is in the midst of a study entitled "The Intentional Renewal Pastor." This is an endeavor to explore the challenges, needs and joys of pastors intentionally working on renewal in their congregations. In this study done as a project in the Greenleaf Academy of Servant Leadership, twenty-five pastors working in renewal are being interviewed using a questionnaire on these topics. For more information email David Young at davidyoung@churchrenewalservant.org.
Credits
Newsline is produced by the news services of the Church of the Brethren. Contact the editor at cobnews@brethren.org. Contributors to this issue of the Church of the Brethren Newsline include Stan Noffsinger, Sue Snyder, Jane Yount, Glenn Kinsel, Jan Fisher Bachman, Nancy Miner, Jeanne Davies, John Wall, Elizabeth Harvey, Adam Pracht, Michael Leiter, and David Young. Kathleen Campanella, director of partner and public relations at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., is serving as guest editor.
Newsline is produced by the news services of the Church of the Brethren. Contact the editor at cobnews@brethren.org. Contributors to this issue of the Church of the Brethren Newsline include Stan Noffsinger, Sue Snyder, Jane Yount, Glenn Kinsel, Jan Fisher Bachman, Nancy Miner, Jeanne Davies, John Wall, Elizabeth Harvey, Adam Pracht, Michael Leiter, and David Young. Kathleen Campanella, director of partner and public relations at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., is serving as guest editor.
Wednesday, April 06, 2011
Global Food Crisis Fund makes grant to North Korea
A grant has been approved for $50,000 from the Global Food Crisis Fund to assist the Ryongyon Sustainable Community Development Program in North Korea. Now in the eighth year of partnership with Agglobe International, the Ryongyon program of community development presents a countrywide model for sustainable agriculture and provides an opportunity for the Church of the Brethren to work at reconciliation as well as food security. Following a disappointing 2010 crop harvest, this grant will aid in the purchase of seeds, plastic sheeting, and fertilizer. Previous Global Food Crisis Fund allocations to Agglobe for the Ryongyon cooperatives have totaled $360,000.
For more about the work of the Global Food Crisis Fund, go to www.brethren.org/site/PageServer?pagename=go_give_food_crisis
A grant has been approved for $50,000 from the Global Food Crisis Fund to assist the Ryongyon Sustainable Community Development Program in North Korea. Now in the eighth year of partnership with Agglobe International, the Ryongyon program of community development presents a countrywide model for sustainable agriculture and provides an opportunity for the Church of the Brethren to work at reconciliation as well as food security. Following a disappointing 2010 crop harvest, this grant will aid in the purchase of seeds, plastic sheeting, and fertilizer. Previous Global Food Crisis Fund allocations to Agglobe for the Ryongyon cooperatives have totaled $360,000.
For more about the work of the Global Food Crisis Fund, go to www.brethren.org/site/PageServer?pagename=go_give_food_crisis
Church of the Brethren Credit Union proposes merger
After more than 72 years of serving the Church of the Brethren with savings and loan opportunities, as well as checking accounts and online banking, the Church of the Brethren Credit Union (CoBCU) Board of Directors has unanimously approved a merger proposal with Corporate America Family Credit Union, with an anticipated completion date of June 1.
This decision was necessitated by the impact the economic recession has had on CoBCU and many other credit unions its size. For several years, savings figures at CoBCU have increased, but revenue producing loans have tapered off. Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT) has served as the administrator of CoBCU since 2004 and has worked to grow membership and push the credit union toward self-sustainment.
"BBT staff worked tirelessly to grow and solidify CoBCU," said Nevin Dulabaum, BBT president and a 37-year member of the credit union. "While the economic challenges experienced by CoBCU finally made it impossible for BBT to continue serving as CoBCU's administrator, we were determined to help the credit union board find a way to provide enhanced services for CoBCU members. A merger with CAFCU achieves that goal."
After performing a thorough search of potential merger candidates across the country, the CoBCU Board accepted CAFCU's proposal. This decision was based on CAFCU's mission statement, excellent member service track record, familiarity with credit union mergers, financial stability, and its impressive list of products and branch locations.
Once the merger is complete, CoBCU members may access the many financial products and services that CAFCU offers its 60,000 members. In addition to the offerings at CoBCU, Corporate America Family Credit Union also offers several credit cards, mortgages and home equity loans, mobile banking, and a variety of educational tools for members.
In addition to its 20 branches nationwide, CAFCU participates in shared branching, meaning that members can perform banking functions at over 6,500 credit unions across the country. Additional services offered through CAFCU include expanded hours of operation, remote deposit options, BALANCE financial counseling, Fresh Start checking and debit card, Visa credit cards, mortgages and home equity loans, mobile banking, member loyalty program, and auto, homeowners, and pet insurance.
A brief history of CAFCU: One year after the groundwork for Church of the Brethren Credit Union was being established by Brethren employees and a Brethren congregation in Elgin, Ill., another credit union's charter was being finalized. In 1939, 15 employees of Automatic Electric Co. formed the Automatic Credit Union. Once that company was purchased by GTE Corporation, it became GTE Employees Federal Credit Union. To ensure the long-term well-being of the credit union, GTE Employees Credit Union began to expand its charter in the early 1980s in order to diversify its membership. To reflect this strategic change, the credit union adopted Corporate America Federal Credit Union as its name. Since the 1980s, CAFCU has grown to serve nearly 60,000 members, and it has seen its assets grow to $550 million (with $65 million in reserves). When it adopted a state of Illinois charter instead of its previous federal charter in 1997, it adopted the name Corporate America Family Credit Union.
A CoBCU membership meeting will be held on April 29 at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., providing an opportunity to ask questions and vote to support the merger. In the meantime, business will continue as usual at the Church of the Brethren Credit Union.
-- Brethren Benefit Trust provided this release. Questions or requests for more information may be addressed to Lynnae Rodeffer, Connie Sandman, or Jill Olson at 888-832-1383 or cobcu@brethren.org. More about the Church of the Brethren Credit Union is at www.cobcu.org.
After more than 72 years of serving the Church of the Brethren with savings and loan opportunities, as well as checking accounts and online banking, the Church of the Brethren Credit Union (CoBCU) Board of Directors has unanimously approved a merger proposal with Corporate America Family Credit Union, with an anticipated completion date of June 1.
This decision was necessitated by the impact the economic recession has had on CoBCU and many other credit unions its size. For several years, savings figures at CoBCU have increased, but revenue producing loans have tapered off. Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT) has served as the administrator of CoBCU since 2004 and has worked to grow membership and push the credit union toward self-sustainment.
"BBT staff worked tirelessly to grow and solidify CoBCU," said Nevin Dulabaum, BBT president and a 37-year member of the credit union. "While the economic challenges experienced by CoBCU finally made it impossible for BBT to continue serving as CoBCU's administrator, we were determined to help the credit union board find a way to provide enhanced services for CoBCU members. A merger with CAFCU achieves that goal."
After performing a thorough search of potential merger candidates across the country, the CoBCU Board accepted CAFCU's proposal. This decision was based on CAFCU's mission statement, excellent member service track record, familiarity with credit union mergers, financial stability, and its impressive list of products and branch locations.
Once the merger is complete, CoBCU members may access the many financial products and services that CAFCU offers its 60,000 members. In addition to the offerings at CoBCU, Corporate America Family Credit Union also offers several credit cards, mortgages and home equity loans, mobile banking, and a variety of educational tools for members.
In addition to its 20 branches nationwide, CAFCU participates in shared branching, meaning that members can perform banking functions at over 6,500 credit unions across the country. Additional services offered through CAFCU include expanded hours of operation, remote deposit options, BALANCE financial counseling, Fresh Start checking and debit card, Visa credit cards, mortgages and home equity loans, mobile banking, member loyalty program, and auto, homeowners, and pet insurance.
A brief history of CAFCU: One year after the groundwork for Church of the Brethren Credit Union was being established by Brethren employees and a Brethren congregation in Elgin, Ill., another credit union's charter was being finalized. In 1939, 15 employees of Automatic Electric Co. formed the Automatic Credit Union. Once that company was purchased by GTE Corporation, it became GTE Employees Federal Credit Union. To ensure the long-term well-being of the credit union, GTE Employees Credit Union began to expand its charter in the early 1980s in order to diversify its membership. To reflect this strategic change, the credit union adopted Corporate America Federal Credit Union as its name. Since the 1980s, CAFCU has grown to serve nearly 60,000 members, and it has seen its assets grow to $550 million (with $65 million in reserves). When it adopted a state of Illinois charter instead of its previous federal charter in 1997, it adopted the name Corporate America Family Credit Union.
A CoBCU membership meeting will be held on April 29 at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., providing an opportunity to ask questions and vote to support the merger. In the meantime, business will continue as usual at the Church of the Brethren Credit Union.
-- Brethren Benefit Trust provided this release. Questions or requests for more information may be addressed to Lynnae Rodeffer, Connie Sandman, or Jill Olson at 888-832-1383 or cobcu@brethren.org. More about the Church of the Brethren Credit Union is at www.cobcu.org.
CWS expedites relief to thousands in neglected coastal cities
Tokyo, Japan - Tuesday March 29, 2011 - Nearly three weeks after the catastrophic earthquake and tsunami that devastated the northeastern coast of Japan, humanitarian organization Church World Service reports that the country's domestic resources alone aren't sufficient to deal with the disaster, and there are still thousands who haven't yet received assistance.
From Tokyo, Takeshi Komino, CWS Asia/Pacific's head of emergencies, is coordinating CWS efforts in Japan. Over the weekend, Komino reported that "It is evident that even a very developed country like Japan is not able to cope with its domestic resources only," due to the magnitude of four nearly simultaneous disasters - a 9.0 earthquake, tsunami, nuclear threat, and freezing winter weather in affected areas. . .
Church World Service now is working with local partners in Japan to coordinate emergency relief for about 25,000 individuals sheltered at 100 evacuation sites in Miyagi, Fukushima, Iwate, Ibaragi and Tochigi Prefectures.
CWS's Komino reports that needs are changing rapidly, even as the government copes with the triple challenge of working to restore safety at the damaged nuclear plant, building temporary shelters, and dealing with the half million people living at evacuation sites or visiting daily because they have no resources at home.
Komino credits the government for working hard to meet these challenges, but points out, that the government simply does not "have the human resources to serve the most vulnerable, including people who can't even go to these evacuation sites."
That is where local Japanese partner agencies have a distinct advantage, being "stationed in the field and working with the affected population on a daily basis," he said. Those local agencies will play a key role in finding and filling people's changing needs, Komino said, "much more precisely and faster ... and will enable CWS to target the most vulnerable, including those unable to go to evacuation sites." Excerpt from a news update provided by Lesley Crosson, Church World Service, media@churchworldservice.org, (212) 870-267
Tokyo, Japan - Tuesday March 29, 2011 - Nearly three weeks after the catastrophic earthquake and tsunami that devastated the northeastern coast of Japan, humanitarian organization Church World Service reports that the country's domestic resources alone aren't sufficient to deal with the disaster, and there are still thousands who haven't yet received assistance.
From Tokyo, Takeshi Komino, CWS Asia/Pacific's head of emergencies, is coordinating CWS efforts in Japan. Over the weekend, Komino reported that "It is evident that even a very developed country like Japan is not able to cope with its domestic resources only," due to the magnitude of four nearly simultaneous disasters - a 9.0 earthquake, tsunami, nuclear threat, and freezing winter weather in affected areas. . .
Church World Service now is working with local partners in Japan to coordinate emergency relief for about 25,000 individuals sheltered at 100 evacuation sites in Miyagi, Fukushima, Iwate, Ibaragi and Tochigi Prefectures.
CWS's Komino reports that needs are changing rapidly, even as the government copes with the triple challenge of working to restore safety at the damaged nuclear plant, building temporary shelters, and dealing with the half million people living at evacuation sites or visiting daily because they have no resources at home.
Komino credits the government for working hard to meet these challenges, but points out, that the government simply does not "have the human resources to serve the most vulnerable, including people who can't even go to these evacuation sites."
That is where local Japanese partner agencies have a distinct advantage, being "stationed in the field and working with the affected population on a daily basis," he said. Those local agencies will play a key role in finding and filling people's changing needs, Komino said, "much more precisely and faster ... and will enable CWS to target the most vulnerable, including those unable to go to evacuation sites." Excerpt from a news update provided by Lesley Crosson, Church World Service, media@churchworldservice.org, (212) 870-267
Steve Gregory to retire as District Executive
Steven W. Gregory has announced his plans to retire as District Executive of the Oregon and Washington District effective September 31, 2011. Gregory began his ministry as district executive on November 1, 1999.
Steven Wendell Gregory was licensed in 1962 and ordained in 1969 at the Lacey (Wash.) Community Church of the Brethren. He is a graduate of La Verne (Calif.) College (now University of La Verne) and received his M.Div. from Bethany Theological Seminary in 1969.
Gregory served as pastor of the Outlook (Wash.) Church of the Brethren from July 1969 to February 1972, pastor of the Ladera Church of the Brethren (Los Angeles, Calif.) from February 1972 to August 1977, campus minister at University of La Verne from August 1977 to August 1989, pastor of the Mountain View Church of the Brethren (Boise, Idaho) from August 1989 to August 1997, and as a member of the Congregational Life Ministries team of the Church of the Brethren General Board (now Mission and Ministry Board) from January 2000 to April 2009, along with his ministry as district executive of the Oregon and Washington District.
The Gregory's plan to continue to live in Wenatchee ,Wash. They look forward to traveling, gardening,refurbishing their Craftsman style house, and volunteering!
Steven W. Gregory has announced his plans to retire as District Executive of the Oregon and Washington District effective September 31, 2011. Gregory began his ministry as district executive on November 1, 1999.
Steven Wendell Gregory was licensed in 1962 and ordained in 1969 at the Lacey (Wash.) Community Church of the Brethren. He is a graduate of La Verne (Calif.) College (now University of La Verne) and received his M.Div. from Bethany Theological Seminary in 1969.
Gregory served as pastor of the Outlook (Wash.) Church of the Brethren from July 1969 to February 1972, pastor of the Ladera Church of the Brethren (Los Angeles, Calif.) from February 1972 to August 1977, campus minister at University of La Verne from August 1977 to August 1989, pastor of the Mountain View Church of the Brethren (Boise, Idaho) from August 1989 to August 1997, and as a member of the Congregational Life Ministries team of the Church of the Brethren General Board (now Mission and Ministry Board) from January 2000 to April 2009, along with his ministry as district executive of the Oregon and Washington District.
The Gregory's plan to continue to live in Wenatchee ,Wash. They look forward to traveling, gardening,refurbishing their Craftsman style house, and volunteering!
Juniata College to test laser-based instruments
Normally, college science researchers work on projects designed to advance our knowledge of chemistry, physics, or biology. But a Juniata College chemist and some student researchers are using a prototype laser instrument to examine materials that could potentially yield breakthroughs in forensic investigations, coal emissions, and even global politics.
The global politics part comes into play as a student researcher, Katrina Shughrue, a senior from New Freedom, Pa., studying chemistry, uses the laser-based instrument to analyze "conflict minerals."
Conflict minerals are rare and precious ores sold by groups in certain nations who use the proceeds to fund civil wars, genocide, or forced labor. Examples are "blood diamonds" from various African nations and materials from mineral-rich Congo, where rebel movements have used these resources to fund conflicts that have fomented genocide, sexual violence, and terror.
Richard Hark, professor of chemistry at Juniata, is collaborating with Applied Spectra, Inc. (ASI), a California-based company, to test a new commercial version of a Laser Induced Breakdown Spectrometer (LIBS). The instrument, called an RT-100, is a completely contained laser system, roughly about the size of a backyard gas barbecue grill, that can be moved easily in areas such as a building or laboratory, but is not designed to be portable in the field. An LIBS instrument uses a laser to atomize a sample of material. The bright spark formed is then analyzed according to its unique light signatures.
"This year and through 2012 our students will put this equipment through its paces," Hark explained. "As we see changes that need to be made we will contact ASI software engineers with suggestions."
Hark is working on three projects that use Applied Spectra's LIBS technology to accurately identify the chemical makeup of various materials. The project with the most far-reaching import may be the conflict minerals project funded by the II-VI Foundation and done in collaboration with scientists at the Smithsonian Institution and ASI. Shughrue and Hark are using LIBS to see if it is possible to identify the location from which conflict minerals originated.
They are examining two specific minerals, tantalite and columbite, both of which are used in the manufacture of capacitors in cell phones, computers, and other consumer electronics. Hark is using LIBS to characterize samples from individual mining sites in the US and around the world. If the LIBS shows that individual samples from different sites have unique "signatures," then it can be used to detect where and when minerals from conflict mines are being sold.
They also are analyzing various types of paper for unique signatures, which can be useful in forensic analysis. Results will be compared to testing using an RT100 at Florida International University. "This type of research is important in forensic science because it demonstrates the validity of the analysis," Hark explained. He said that his work will establish baseline information to determine if the LIBS instrument can be use in the investigative process or if it can be used in the evidentiary process, in a court of law.
A third LIBS project to analyze the ash content of coal is funded by the II-VI Foundation. Ash in coal is a clay-like aggregate within the coal that can cause maintenance problems and production inefficiencies during the burning process. "Using the LIBS instrument to examine coal samples will give us a baseline of information whether we can determine the exact amount of ash content so that in a production operation, 'dirty' coal can be removed," Hark said. "LIBS is very good at real-time analysis, so this work could be important in power plants and other operations."
-- John Wall is director of media relations for Juniata College, a Church of the Brethren-related school in Huntingdon, Pa.
Normally, college science researchers work on projects designed to advance our knowledge of chemistry, physics, or biology. But a Juniata College chemist and some student researchers are using a prototype laser instrument to examine materials that could potentially yield breakthroughs in forensic investigations, coal emissions, and even global politics.
The global politics part comes into play as a student researcher, Katrina Shughrue, a senior from New Freedom, Pa., studying chemistry, uses the laser-based instrument to analyze "conflict minerals."
Conflict minerals are rare and precious ores sold by groups in certain nations who use the proceeds to fund civil wars, genocide, or forced labor. Examples are "blood diamonds" from various African nations and materials from mineral-rich Congo, where rebel movements have used these resources to fund conflicts that have fomented genocide, sexual violence, and terror.
Richard Hark, professor of chemistry at Juniata, is collaborating with Applied Spectra, Inc. (ASI), a California-based company, to test a new commercial version of a Laser Induced Breakdown Spectrometer (LIBS). The instrument, called an RT-100, is a completely contained laser system, roughly about the size of a backyard gas barbecue grill, that can be moved easily in areas such as a building or laboratory, but is not designed to be portable in the field. An LIBS instrument uses a laser to atomize a sample of material. The bright spark formed is then analyzed according to its unique light signatures.
"This year and through 2012 our students will put this equipment through its paces," Hark explained. "As we see changes that need to be made we will contact ASI software engineers with suggestions."
Hark is working on three projects that use Applied Spectra's LIBS technology to accurately identify the chemical makeup of various materials. The project with the most far-reaching import may be the conflict minerals project funded by the II-VI Foundation and done in collaboration with scientists at the Smithsonian Institution and ASI. Shughrue and Hark are using LIBS to see if it is possible to identify the location from which conflict minerals originated.
They are examining two specific minerals, tantalite and columbite, both of which are used in the manufacture of capacitors in cell phones, computers, and other consumer electronics. Hark is using LIBS to characterize samples from individual mining sites in the US and around the world. If the LIBS shows that individual samples from different sites have unique "signatures," then it can be used to detect where and when minerals from conflict mines are being sold.
They also are analyzing various types of paper for unique signatures, which can be useful in forensic analysis. Results will be compared to testing using an RT100 at Florida International University. "This type of research is important in forensic science because it demonstrates the validity of the analysis," Hark explained. He said that his work will establish baseline information to determine if the LIBS instrument can be use in the investigative process or if it can be used in the evidentiary process, in a court of law.
A third LIBS project to analyze the ash content of coal is funded by the II-VI Foundation. Ash in coal is a clay-like aggregate within the coal that can cause maintenance problems and production inefficiencies during the burning process. "Using the LIBS instrument to examine coal samples will give us a baseline of information whether we can determine the exact amount of ash content so that in a production operation, 'dirty' coal can be removed," Hark said. "LIBS is very good at real-time analysis, so this work could be important in power plants and other operations."
-- John Wall is director of media relations for Juniata College, a Church of the Brethren-related school in Huntingdon, Pa.
BRETHREN BITS: Remembrances, job openings, Annual Conference Business, upcoming events and more.
- Louise Garber Holderreed, former Church of the Brethren mission worker in China and India, died March 14, 2011 in Twin Falls, Idaho. While attending Bethany Bible Training School in Chicago, she met Andrew Holderreed who was studying to be a minister. They were married on May 30, 1941, and both graduated the following year in May. Louise and her husband were called to the mission field in China. On February 14, 1947, the family joined 450 other missionaries on a converted troop ship to set out for China. This was a time of great civil turmoil in China, and by April 1949, the American Consul advised all non-essential foreign personnel to leave in order to avoid becoming prisoners of war as General Mao Tse-Chung marched his Red Army across China. Louise and her family escaped in the back of a freight truck and returned to the United States. On Christmas Eve the same year, they boarded a freighter ship and left for India. The family lived in several locations as Andy's assignments changed. After completing 25 years of work in India, Andy and Louise returned to Tacoma, Wash., and began to minister in the Larchmont Church of the Brethren. A memorial service was held for Louise on April 1, at Twin Falls Church of the Brethren. The family suggests memorial contributions to Heifer International or Habitat for Humanity.
- Position Opening -The Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., seeks a director of Buildings and Grounds, with an application deadline of April 26, 2011, or until the position is filled. Experience should include at least three years of administrative experience in facilities management and at least three years of HVACR, electrical and/or plumbing experience; education Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience. A detailed position description is available from the Church of the Brethren Office of Human Resources, 800-323-8039, Ext. 258, email kkrog@brethren.org
- The Material Resources program, housed at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., has been busy moving shipments of relief goods. Shipments made over the past few weeks include one 40-foot container of hygiene kits, toothpaste, sheets, quilts, and t-shirts to Serbia for International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC); one 40-foot container of school kits to Syria for IOCC; one 40-foot container of quilts and kits to Armenia on behalf of Lutheran World Relief in cooperation with International Relief and Development (IRD); one 40-foot container with baby kits, sewing machines, and books to Yemen for IRD. Several shipments were sent on behalf of Church World Service (CWS): blankets and hygiene kits to Kansas City, Mo., for those affected by the flooding that began in May 2010; blankets, baby kits, school kits, hygiene kits, and 50 clean-up buckets to Appalachian Outreach in Moundsville, W.Va.; blankets and hygiene kits to St. Louis, Mo., and Fresnos, Tex., in response to winter storms; blankets and hygiene kits to Willamantic, Conn., and Brattleboro, Vt., for use by homeless persons in shelters.
- The Business agenda for the 225th Church of the Brethren Annual Conference in Grand Rapids, Michigan, July 2-6, 2011, is now available on the website www.cobannualconference.org/grand_rapids/business.html
Unfinished Business:A Statement of Confession and Commitment
New Business:
Query: Language on Same Sex Covenantal Relationships
Query: Guidelines for Implementation of the Congregational Ethics Paper
Query: Guidance for Responding to the Changing of the Earth's Climate
Query: Proper Decorum - Gifts for Workcampers: Congregations and individuals are invited to support over 600 youth and adults who will serve as the Body of Christ at Church of the Brethren Workcamps in the summer of 2011, working on service projects throughout the United States and the world. These Christian servants will spend a week of their lives learning about people on the margins, God, service, and themselves, making change in the world through their actions and through their presence. Reflecting the love and support of the Church of the Brethren family, you are invited to give gifts - donations of craft items, cards, bookmarks, or any small item you would be willing to give to enrich their experience - that can be distributed to the participants of each workcamp. By giving to them, you enrich the experience of those who are giving their time to act as the hands and feet of Christ. In order to have the the gifts ready to pack into boxes sent to each workcamp, please send 40 small items by May 1, 2011, to 2011 Church of the Brethren Workcamp Office, 1451 Dundee Avenue, Elgin IL 60120. Bless you for your efforts in blessing others in service and love.
- Church of the Brethren Christian Citizenship Seminar was held March 26 - 31, 2011 in New York City and Washington, D.C. High school youth gathered to consider how their faith interacts with the food. The Christian Citizenship Seminar (CCS) announcement read, "Since our beginnings, Brethren have been closely related to the agricultural system. While fewer and fewer of us work with the land on a daily basis, we all enjoy the fruits of the labors of those who do because we all eat. As our population (and the US population) continues to increase and shift from rural to urban, it is important to think about where our food comes from, why it comes from that particular place, and how it arrives to us. The number of questions we face about food and faith continue to expand." The youth brought these questions to Capitol Hill, sharing with legislators that the way we use and interact with food is an important part of their faith. "We have a moral obligation, in a time when more are suffering in our world than ever before, to protect and strengthen programs that serve those who are hungry and in a state of poverty, and that seek to alleviate hunger and poverty both domestically and around the world."
- The board of directors of Fahrney-Keedy Home and Village near Boonsboro, Md., has welcomed a new chair, Joseph Dahms, and two new members, Lerry Fogle and Donna Ritchey Martin. Dahms, of Frederick, Md., was named to the board in 2009. He has been an economics professor at Hood College in Frederick since 1978 where he was chair of the Economics and Business Department from 2004-07, and is a member of Glade Valley Church of the Brethren in Walkersville, Md. Fogle, also of Frederick, served as director of Annual Conference from 2002-09. Ritchey Martin, of Myersville, Md., is pastor of Grossnickle Church of the Brethren along with her husband, Tim.
- Manchester College is offering 191 high school seniors almost $11.3 million in academic scholarships, according to a release from the school. The students, on track to begin Manchester College careers in the fall, have qualified for four-year scholarships ranging from $50,000 to $64,000. Two will receive full-tuition Honors Scholarships. "We're thrilled to have top students interested in attending Manchester," said Dave McFadden, executive vice president. The college offers a "Triple Guarantee," the release said: financial aid for every student, a degree in four years, and a job or admission to graduate study within six months of graduation. For more visit www.manchester.edu.
- The first in a series of annual John Kline Lectures during the sesquicentennial commemoration of the Civil War will feature a Church of the Brethren scholar looking at the issue of slavery and the Brethren. Dr. Jeff Bach, director of the Young Center for Anabaptist and Pietist Studies at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College, will speak on "The UnChristian Negro Slave Trade: Brethren and the Problem of Slavery" at a dinner meeting at 6 p.m. Saturday, April 9, at the Clear Spring Homestead west of Dayton. For tickets, $30 each, call the Linville Creek Church of the Brethren (540-896-5001) or send payment to the John Kline Homestead, PO Box 274, Broadway, Va. 22815. Seating is limited, and reservations are required.
- Huntingdon, Pa. -- Two local artists are donating 100 hand-made bowls and more than 15 Juniata College students and community members are crafting bowls for hungry diners willing to eat a vast range of hearty soups at an Empty Bowls event to raise money to benefit four Huntingdon County food banks. The Empty Bowls dinner is at 5:00 p.m. Saturday, April 9 in the basement of the Stone Church in Huntingdon. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children under 10. Patrons of the event who have paid the adult price will get not only soup and bread, but also a hand-made ceramic soup bowl from the college's renowned pottery program. Empty Bowls, is a nationwide event designed to focus attention on world hunger. Tickets are available at the information desk in Juniata's Ellis Hall. The dinner will raise funds for the Huntingdon Food Pantry, Mount Union Food Bank, Southern Food Bank, Salvation Army Food Bank and the Mary Alexander Project. For more information contact John Wall e-mail: wallj@juniata.edu
- The Bittersweet Gospel Band will lead an evening of praise at Staunton (Va.) Church of the Brethren on Sunday, April 10, at 4:30 p.m. Pastor Gilbert Romero from Los Angeles, Calif., and pastor Scott Duffey from Staunton, team up to lead worship with a revival atmosphere. More information is at bittersweetgospelband.blogspot.com.
- Steve Longenecker, history professor at Bridgewater (Va.) College, will discuss "Shenandoah Anabaptists and the Secession Crisis" at the April 10 Spring Lecture of CrossRoads Valley Brethren-Mennonite Heritage Center. The lecture is hosted by Weavers Mennonite Church in Harrisonburg, Va., at 4 p.m. In other news from the center, Ron Wyrick, pastor of Harrisonburg First Church of the Brethren, offers the meditation for the April 24 Easter Sunrise Service held at CrossRoads. The service starts at 6:00 a.m. April 30 is the date of the center's annual Tears and Ashes Bus Tour. The tour will describe how the Civil War impacted each of these places: 1) Breneman-Turner Mill, featuring re-enactors and a demonstration of grinding grain. 2) John Kline House, featuring a John Kline re-enactor. 3) Downtown Harrisonburg, with a choice of a walking tour or the Quilt Museum. 4) Hardesty-Higgins House, featuring the Civil War Room and Turnpike Museum. 5) Widow Pence house and farm, featuring re-enactors. The $70 per person fee includes lunch at Union Station Restaurant in Harrisonburg. Reservation, with payment, should be sent to CrossRoads by April 25. Send to P.O. Box 1563, Harrisonburg, VA 22803. For more information go to www.vbmhc.org or contact info@vbmhc.org or 540-438-1275.
- Elizabethtown (Pa.) College will present Shirin Ebadi, award-winning human rights activist and Nobel Laureate at the 2011 Ware Lecture on Peacemaking, Thursday, April 14, 7:30 p.m. at Leffler Chapel and Performance Center. Tickets are free but required, via the Ticket Hotline, 717-361-4757.
- The 10th annual Sounds of the Mountains Festival of Music and Storytelling will be held April 15-16 at Camp Bethel near Fincastle, Va. "This being our 10th year, we're planning our BEST festival ever!" said an announcement. "Notably, Church of the Brethren singer-songwriters Andy and Terry Murray will perform Saturday afternoon, April 16." The festival also features four-time Grammy winner David Holt, master story teller Donald Davis, comedian Andy Offutt Irwin, humorist Suzy Whaples, and the bands the Wright Kids and Clinton Collins and the Creekboys. Check www.soundsofthemountains.org for tickets, schedule, and more information.
- Earth Day is celebrated on April 22 each year, and the National Council of Churches Eco-Justice program has released its annual worship and education guide for individuals and congregations to use on the Sunday closest to Earth Day. This year the theme centers around community. Related resources are free at www.nccecojustice.org.
- Dates for the annual Meat Canning Project of Mid-Atlantic and Southern Pennsylvania Districts are April 25-28 and May 2-3. This is the 34th year for the project, and the goal is to process 67,500 pounds of chicken for hunger and disaster relief.
- Live Oak (Calif.) Church of the Brethren celebrates 100 years of ministry, May 14-15. The celebration will include music, prayer, praise, and stories about the 100 years. Contact Roland Johnson at 530-695-1709 for more information.
- Steven J. Schweitzer, academic dean at Bethany Theological Seminary, is the leader for "The Sermon on the Mount: Jesus and the Old Testament," a continuing education event for ministers held in Virlina District on June 4, 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Roanoke (Va.) Summerdean Church of the Brethren hosts the event. A credit of 0.6 continuing education units is available to ordained ministers. The event is the "Practice of Ministry Day" for the district's Christian Growth Institute. Cost is $25, which includes lunch.
- On June 12, the Shenandoah District Leadership Team will host a retirement reception in honor of district executive minister Jim Miller and his wife Mary. The event takes place, 3-5 p.m. at Bridgewater (Va.) Church of the Brethren.
- Brethren Woods Camp and Retreat Center near Keezletown, Va., holds its Spring Festival on April 30, from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. The day's activities help raise money to support Shenandoah District's outdoor ministry program. Activities include a "Dunk the Dunkard Booth," fishing contest, pancake breakfast, craft demonstrations, paddle boat rides, hike-a-thon, children's games, petting zoo, zip line rides, live auction, and other entertainment along with food. More information is at www.brethrenwoods.org.
- The 38th Annual Brethren Bible Institute of the Brethren Revival Fellowship will be July 24-29 at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College. Nine courses will be taught. Total cost for room, board, and tuition is $200 for the week. Cost for commuting students is $70. Continuing education units are available for ordained ministers. Some courses may apply toward district training programs for licensed ministers. Application forms must be received by June 24. More information is at www.brfwitness.org/?page_id=11. Call Kenneth Leininger at 717-336-1287 for details.
- For Palm Sunday, April 17, Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT)
Colombia has prepared a litany, sermon notes, and bulletin insert
connecting the passion Jesus faced with the one being suffered by the
communities that CPT accompanies in Colombia due to the palm oil
industry. Resources are available at www.cpt.org/palmsunday.
- Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT) seeks applicants for its Peacemaker Corps. The summer 2011 Peacemaker Corps Training takes place in Chicago, Ill., July 15-Aug. 15. Applicants must have participated in a CPT delegation or equivalent CPT experience before June 2011. Full-time, and part-time positions with stipends are available, especially for the Palestine project, to start as early as Sept. 2011. Mail in Peacemaker Corps applications by May 1 to Christian Peacemaker Teams, P.O. Box 6508, Chicago, IL 60680; or e-mail to personnel@cpt.org. Find the application form online at www.cpt.org/participate peacemaker. Originally founded as an initiative of the Historic Peace Churches (Church of the Brethren, Mennonites, and Quakers) CPT seeks to enlist the whole church in organized, nonviolent alternatives to war, and places teams of trained peacemakers in regions of lethal conflict.
- The World Council of Churches (WCC) and church organizations on both sides of the Atlantic have urged NATO to remove all United States nuclear weapons still based in Europe and end their role in the alliance's policy. The 200 or so nuclear weapons involved are "remnants of Cold War strategies" the ecumenical organizations say in joint letters. "NATO should rethink deterrence and security cooperation in Europe" and make good on NATO's new commitment last year to "creating the conditions for a world without nuclear weapons." The letters were sent to the leaders of NATO, the US, and Russia in mid-March by the heads of the WCC, the Conference of European Churches, the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA (NCC), and the Canadian Council of Churches. The four organizations acted in anticipation of an important NATO nuclear policy review this year. That review and a NATO summit in 2012 present an "opportunity for change that is long overdue and widely anticipated," the letters say. Read the joint letter at www.oikoumene.org/index.php?RDCT=f38835e2d3425f25492e.
Credits
Newsline is produced by the news services of the Church of the Brethren. Contact cobnews@brethren.org. Kathleen Campanella, director of partner and public relations at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., is serving as guest editor. Contributors to this issue of the Church of the Brethren Newsline include Jordon Blevins, Karin Krog, Loretta Wolf, Mandy Garcia, Nancy Miner, Carol Fike, Jeri S. Kornegay, Craig Alan Myers, Steve Longenecker and Howard Royer.
Newsline is produced by the news services of the Church of the Brethren. Contact cobnews@brethren.org. Kathleen Campanella, director of partner and public relations at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., is serving as guest editor. Contributors to this issue of the Church of the Brethren Newsline include Jordon Blevins, Karin Krog, Loretta Wolf, Mandy Garcia, Nancy Miner, Carol Fike, Jeri S. Kornegay, Craig Alan Myers, Steve Longenecker and Howard Royer.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
NEWS
- Denominational board adopts a Strategic Plan for the decade.
- Work team worships and works with Haitian Brethren.
- McPherson couple gives course in Brethren history to CNI seminary.
- Fasting initiative focuses on world’s vulnerable.
- Registration is now open for National Older Adult Conference.
Denominational board adopts a Strategic Plan for the decade.
A Strategic Plan for denominational ministry in this decade, 2011-2019, was adopted by the Church of the Brethren’s Mission and Ministry Board at its spring meeting. The meeting took place March 10-14 at the church’s General Offices in Elgin, Ill. The board used a consensus style of decision making, led by chair Dale E. Minnich.
Also on the agenda was a thorough overview of the current financial situation of denominational ministries, approval of the annual report, and reports on new church development, work in Haiti and southern Sudan, a delegation to Israel/Palestine, and the Christian Churches Together annual meeting that centered on the continuing problem of racism in US churches, among others.
The board spent an afternoon in private conversation to seek a working relationship while dealing with controversial issues facing the church, including the Special Response conversation on matters related to sexuality.
Strategic Plan:
As in its fall meeting last year, the board spent much of its time on a Strategic Plan. It adopted a final document at this meeting. (Find the Strategic Plan at www.brethren.org/site/DocServer/MMB_Strategic_Plan_2011_2019__Approved_.pdf?docID=12261.) The plan received verbal accolades from board members, both in a discussion of the plan by the Executive Committee, and in comments in the full board meeting.
"This is a major step for us," said Minnich as he introduced the item of business. In a slide explaining the process used to arrive at the plan, he identified its purpose in this way: "Provide a Christ centered focus for MMB (Mission and Ministry Board) program that fits the gifts and dreams of the Brethren."
"I desperately want members of the church engaged with this (plan) and to see what we’re doing," said vice-chair Ben Barlow.
Repeatedly, board and staff leaders emphasized the interrelated nature of six sets of directional goals and objectives for ministry in the program areas of "Brethren Voice," church planting, congregational vitality, international mission, and service, and an organizational goal of sustainability. Each is based in scripture. The objectives were written with help from small working groups of staff and board liaisons, and in some cases advisory groups from the wider church.
Commenting on the objectives for church planting, Congregational Life Ministries executive director Jonathan Shively told the Executive Committee, "These objectives only work when they’re paired with the objectives for Brethren Voice and others."
"None of them can stand alone," Barlow said in agreement. He characterized the goals in their entirety as "envisioning a vital and dynamic church...into the future."
At previous meetings the board had approved several sections of the plan including a preamble prayer, six broad directional goals, and next steps such as how the plan will be implemented. The organization’s vision, mission, and core values statements (www.brethren.org/site/DocServer/MMB_Vision_Mission_Core_Values_2009.pdf?docID=5381) are considered foundational understandings.
The objectives for congregational vitality, which in the words of Ministry Office executive Mary Jo Flory-Steury lay out a vision of what a vibrant and vital church is, began receiving positive responses even in advance of the board meeting. Board member Tim Peter already has written about them for a newsletter, and told the Executive Committee "how this particular directional goal resonated with people in Northern Plains District.... Yes, this is important to us!" he said.
The board spent an afternoon discussing the new objectives, asking questions, and giving feedback. One point of clarification requested was how the specific number of 250 new church plants for the decade was decided. Shively explained that the assumption is not that denominational staff are planting the churches, but that the denomination’s ministry is to support church planters in the districts. The number of 250 new plants is an achievable objective in terms of that support, he said.
"We can’t do this on our own power," he added. "This is a spiritual discipline.... That’s the spirit in which that number was imagined and offered." Shively also told the board that as he meets with district leaders, he is seeing the church planting movement "finding its wings."
Members of the finance staff also offered helpful explanations about the objectives for sustainability--that the goal is to be forward looking, with objectives designed to sustain the Church of the Brethren’s mission into the future, and not necessarily tied to current program and staffing structures. "We are not trying to sustain an organization," said LeAnn Wine, assistant treasurer and executive director of Systems and Services. "It is about creating sustaining resources for the mission. As the mission changes, we need to be flexible."
Two ex-officio board members raised concerns about whether the objectives give enough prominence to the peace witness, and whether an objective for interfaith relationships ought to be added. Their concerns were discussed but led to no changes in the Strategic Plan.
Work toward this new Strategic Plan began when the former General Board and the former Association of Brethren Caregivers merged to become the Church of the Brethren, Inc. Then, using an "appreciative inquiry" process focused on identifying strengths of the organization, data was gleaned from a five-year evaluation of the work of the General Secretary and a survey of leadership groups in the denomination. Rick Augsburger of the Konterra Group based in Washington, D.C., served as consultant. A Strategic Planning Working Group of board members and executive staff guided the effort.
A reading of the plan’s Preamble Prayer closed the business sessions of the board. Brian Messler, a board member from Frederick (Md.) Church of the Brethren, also shared how he will be bringing ideas from the service objectives back to his congregation, suggesting that other board members do the same. "The juices are flowing, the Spirit is moving, and praise be to God!" said Minnich.
Financial reports:
A review of the financial situation for denominational ministry centered on a smaller than expected net loss in the Core Ministries Fund in 2010, which reduces the anticipated deficit that had been budgeted for this year.
Other positive points came with news that since 2008 the denomination’s investments have rebounded and have regained $4 million in value--more than half of the value lost in the economic downturn of three years ago. Congregational giving continued strong in 2010 given the overall economic situation in the nation, beating budget projections. Online giving increased significantly. In addition the Annual Conference experienced a turnaround, reversing a deficit that had been greatly increased by poor attendance at the 2009 Conference.
While income to the Core Ministries Fund was less than anticipated overall, giving to all Church of the Brethren ministries was up significantly when the more than $1 million in donations to disaster relief work in Haiti was taken into account.
However, finance staff also reported several negatives, chief among them the negative net asset balance for the New Windsor (Md.) Conference Center, which doubled to over a half million dollars by the end of last year. In her report about a situation she called "very daunting," Keyser said the problem is a result of the wider economic downturn that has affected use of the conference center, along with costs associated with the older buildings and staffing. "We’ve never had a half million dollars" in a negative net asset balance before, she told the board. "Everything is being discussed by your staff. We’re talking about all the options."
The extensive financial reporting reviewed pre-audit income and expense results for Church of the Brethren ministries in 2010, designated fund balances, net assets balances, stabilization strategies for investments, cash flow analysis, a 10-year budgeting history of the organization, and other areas of concern as the board anticipates a difficult financial situation next year. The projection given by Keyser is that denominational ministries will enter 2012 with a potential shortfall in income of some $696,000.
During the meeting, a collection to support the work of the church received donations from board members and staff. A final gift following the meeting brought that total to around $2,500.
A detailed report of pre-audit financial results from 2010 appeared in Newsline on March 9, find it at www.brethren.org/site/News2?page=NewsArticle&id=14270. A photo album of the meeting is at www.brethren.org/site/PhotoAlbumUser?view=UserAlbum&AlbumID=14367.
A Strategic Plan for denominational ministry in this decade, 2011-2019, was adopted by the Church of the Brethren’s Mission and Ministry Board at its spring meeting. The meeting took place March 10-14 at the church’s General Offices in Elgin, Ill. The board used a consensus style of decision making, led by chair Dale E. Minnich.
Also on the agenda was a thorough overview of the current financial situation of denominational ministries, approval of the annual report, and reports on new church development, work in Haiti and southern Sudan, a delegation to Israel/Palestine, and the Christian Churches Together annual meeting that centered on the continuing problem of racism in US churches, among others.
The board spent an afternoon in private conversation to seek a working relationship while dealing with controversial issues facing the church, including the Special Response conversation on matters related to sexuality.
Strategic Plan:
As in its fall meeting last year, the board spent much of its time on a Strategic Plan. It adopted a final document at this meeting. (Find the Strategic Plan at www.brethren.org/site/DocServer/MMB_Strategic_Plan_2011_2019__Approved_.pdf?docID=12261.) The plan received verbal accolades from board members, both in a discussion of the plan by the Executive Committee, and in comments in the full board meeting.
"This is a major step for us," said Minnich as he introduced the item of business. In a slide explaining the process used to arrive at the plan, he identified its purpose in this way: "Provide a Christ centered focus for MMB (Mission and Ministry Board) program that fits the gifts and dreams of the Brethren."
"I desperately want members of the church engaged with this (plan) and to see what we’re doing," said vice-chair Ben Barlow.
Repeatedly, board and staff leaders emphasized the interrelated nature of six sets of directional goals and objectives for ministry in the program areas of "Brethren Voice," church planting, congregational vitality, international mission, and service, and an organizational goal of sustainability. Each is based in scripture. The objectives were written with help from small working groups of staff and board liaisons, and in some cases advisory groups from the wider church.
Commenting on the objectives for church planting, Congregational Life Ministries executive director Jonathan Shively told the Executive Committee, "These objectives only work when they’re paired with the objectives for Brethren Voice and others."
"None of them can stand alone," Barlow said in agreement. He characterized the goals in their entirety as "envisioning a vital and dynamic church...into the future."
At previous meetings the board had approved several sections of the plan including a preamble prayer, six broad directional goals, and next steps such as how the plan will be implemented. The organization’s vision, mission, and core values statements (www.brethren.org/site/DocServer/MMB_Vision_Mission_Core_Values_2009.pdf?docID=5381) are considered foundational understandings.
The objectives for congregational vitality, which in the words of Ministry Office executive Mary Jo Flory-Steury lay out a vision of what a vibrant and vital church is, began receiving positive responses even in advance of the board meeting. Board member Tim Peter already has written about them for a newsletter, and told the Executive Committee "how this particular directional goal resonated with people in Northern Plains District.... Yes, this is important to us!" he said.
The board spent an afternoon discussing the new objectives, asking questions, and giving feedback. One point of clarification requested was how the specific number of 250 new church plants for the decade was decided. Shively explained that the assumption is not that denominational staff are planting the churches, but that the denomination’s ministry is to support church planters in the districts. The number of 250 new plants is an achievable objective in terms of that support, he said.
"We can’t do this on our own power," he added. "This is a spiritual discipline.... That’s the spirit in which that number was imagined and offered." Shively also told the board that as he meets with district leaders, he is seeing the church planting movement "finding its wings."
Members of the finance staff also offered helpful explanations about the objectives for sustainability--that the goal is to be forward looking, with objectives designed to sustain the Church of the Brethren’s mission into the future, and not necessarily tied to current program and staffing structures. "We are not trying to sustain an organization," said LeAnn Wine, assistant treasurer and executive director of Systems and Services. "It is about creating sustaining resources for the mission. As the mission changes, we need to be flexible."
Two ex-officio board members raised concerns about whether the objectives give enough prominence to the peace witness, and whether an objective for interfaith relationships ought to be added. Their concerns were discussed but led to no changes in the Strategic Plan.
Work toward this new Strategic Plan began when the former General Board and the former Association of Brethren Caregivers merged to become the Church of the Brethren, Inc. Then, using an "appreciative inquiry" process focused on identifying strengths of the organization, data was gleaned from a five-year evaluation of the work of the General Secretary and a survey of leadership groups in the denomination. Rick Augsburger of the Konterra Group based in Washington, D.C., served as consultant. A Strategic Planning Working Group of board members and executive staff guided the effort.
A reading of the plan’s Preamble Prayer closed the business sessions of the board. Brian Messler, a board member from Frederick (Md.) Church of the Brethren, also shared how he will be bringing ideas from the service objectives back to his congregation, suggesting that other board members do the same. "The juices are flowing, the Spirit is moving, and praise be to God!" said Minnich.
Financial reports:
A review of the financial situation for denominational ministry centered on a smaller than expected net loss in the Core Ministries Fund in 2010, which reduces the anticipated deficit that had been budgeted for this year.
Other positive points came with news that since 2008 the denomination’s investments have rebounded and have regained $4 million in value--more than half of the value lost in the economic downturn of three years ago. Congregational giving continued strong in 2010 given the overall economic situation in the nation, beating budget projections. Online giving increased significantly. In addition the Annual Conference experienced a turnaround, reversing a deficit that had been greatly increased by poor attendance at the 2009 Conference.
While income to the Core Ministries Fund was less than anticipated overall, giving to all Church of the Brethren ministries was up significantly when the more than $1 million in donations to disaster relief work in Haiti was taken into account.
However, finance staff also reported several negatives, chief among them the negative net asset balance for the New Windsor (Md.) Conference Center, which doubled to over a half million dollars by the end of last year. In her report about a situation she called "very daunting," Keyser said the problem is a result of the wider economic downturn that has affected use of the conference center, along with costs associated with the older buildings and staffing. "We’ve never had a half million dollars" in a negative net asset balance before, she told the board. "Everything is being discussed by your staff. We’re talking about all the options."
The extensive financial reporting reviewed pre-audit income and expense results for Church of the Brethren ministries in 2010, designated fund balances, net assets balances, stabilization strategies for investments, cash flow analysis, a 10-year budgeting history of the organization, and other areas of concern as the board anticipates a difficult financial situation next year. The projection given by Keyser is that denominational ministries will enter 2012 with a potential shortfall in income of some $696,000.
During the meeting, a collection to support the work of the church received donations from board members and staff. A final gift following the meeting brought that total to around $2,500.
A detailed report of pre-audit financial results from 2010 appeared in Newsline on March 9, find it at www.brethren.org/site/News2?page=NewsArticle&id=14270. A photo album of the meeting is at www.brethren.org/site/PhotoAlbumUser?view=UserAlbum&AlbumID=14367.
Work team worships and works with Haitian Brethren.
A work team recently spent at week (Feb.24-March 3) worshiping and working together with the National Committee of Eglise des Freres Haitiens (the Church of the Brethren in Haiti). The group was jointly sponsored by the Global Mission Partnerships of the Church of the Brethren and the Brethren Mission Fund of the Brethren Revival Fellowship.
The team, consisting of 14 members, was led by Douglas Miller of New Oxford, Pa., Marie Andremene Ridore of Miami, Fla., and Jeff Boshart of Fort Atkinson, Wis.
During the week the group helped lead Vacation Bible School activities in two churches and two schools, joined church members in Morne Boulage and Saut d'Eau to assist in church construction projects, distributed Bibles to church leaders, and spent one day working on a guesthouse being built by Brethren Disaster Ministries to house volunteers in Croix des Bouquets. The group was able to visit permanent homes being built by Brethren Disaster Ministries, and to meet Haitian Brethren living in temporary housing provided by the program.
This was the first team to be hosted by the National Committee of the Haitian Brethren. Treasurer Romy Telfort thanked the team for its presence and expressed what a blessing it was to serve together in this way. General secretary Jean Bily Telfort shared his appreciation for the support of the Church of the Brethren in the US.
-- Jeff Boshart is coordinator of the Brethren Disaster Ministries response in Haiti, and a consultant for Global Mission Partnerships.
A work team recently spent at week (Feb.24-March 3) worshiping and working together with the National Committee of Eglise des Freres Haitiens (the Church of the Brethren in Haiti). The group was jointly sponsored by the Global Mission Partnerships of the Church of the Brethren and the Brethren Mission Fund of the Brethren Revival Fellowship.
The team, consisting of 14 members, was led by Douglas Miller of New Oxford, Pa., Marie Andremene Ridore of Miami, Fla., and Jeff Boshart of Fort Atkinson, Wis.
During the week the group helped lead Vacation Bible School activities in two churches and two schools, joined church members in Morne Boulage and Saut d'Eau to assist in church construction projects, distributed Bibles to church leaders, and spent one day working on a guesthouse being built by Brethren Disaster Ministries to house volunteers in Croix des Bouquets. The group was able to visit permanent homes being built by Brethren Disaster Ministries, and to meet Haitian Brethren living in temporary housing provided by the program.
This was the first team to be hosted by the National Committee of the Haitian Brethren. Treasurer Romy Telfort thanked the team for its presence and expressed what a blessing it was to serve together in this way. General secretary Jean Bily Telfort shared his appreciation for the support of the Church of the Brethren in the US.
-- Jeff Boshart is coordinator of the Brethren Disaster Ministries response in Haiti, and a consultant for Global Mission Partnerships.
McPherson couple gives course in Brethren history to CNI seminary.
Herb and Jeanne Smith recently taught a course in Brethren history and traditions at Gujarat School of Theology, a seminary of the Church of North India (CNI). Affiliated with McPherson (Kan.) College, the Smiths have taken students and alumni on international trips every January interterm. They also have taught at universities in Japan and India during sabbaticals. This second experience in India, however, of all their travels and teaching was the most impactful. Following is their report:
India assaults the senses, intrigues the intellect, and inspires the spirit. In this land of enchanting diversity, the Church of the Brethren initiated its mission in 1895. Eventually over 90 schools were founded along the central western coast in an area of over 7,000 square miles.
As we were anticipating flying to Ahmadabad to teach at the Gujarat School of Theology, we were naturally apprehensive. Both of us during our educational training had experienced presentations by guest professors from other cultures, not usually in sync with the students. The apprehension was heightened when upon arrival we found out that our teaching would be translated line by line from English to a Gujarat dialect.
To our surprise, the sessions on Church of the Brethren history and traditions were very well received by both the seminary students and the professors who attended.
The School of Theology is the graduate seminary for CNI. In 1970, amid considerable controversy, the Church of the Brethren joined this consortium consisting of six denominations. The school is located in the semi-arid city of Ahmadabad, where Mahatma Gandhi had his ashram and began the long trek of his epic salt march.
Because most of the seminarians and faculty had come from other denominational backgrounds, the history and traditions of the Brethren were almost entirely new to them. The service motif and the pacifist stance were highlighted. Since CNI has adopted both the Apostles and Nicene Creeds, we featured the Brethren emphasis on the teachings of Christ, which are totally omitted by the creeds. Also, much emphasis was placed on the monumental change when the fourth century Roman emperor Constantine militarized his understanding of the Christian faith.
One of the seminary students shared about his background and decision to join the Christian faith and prepare for the ministry. His decision was made under threat of death in a province where the right-wing BJP political party promotes a brand of Hindu fundamentalism, and Christianity is not well received by the general population.
Stirring the emotions was a visit to the leprosy settlement supported by CNI. Everyone has heard of Mother Teresa, but few have been told about Father Albert--except for people who beg throughout north India. Lame since birth, this saint personally applies salve to the wounds of those with Hansen’s disease (leprosy) and directs an orphanage of 76 children whose parents have died of this debilitating disease. In India, those with leprosy often are shunned by their families and are left homeless in the streets. Father Albert’s compound provides warmth in the context of Christian love.
From the pioneer era of Mary and Wilbur Stover along with Bertha Ryan, the Church of the Brethren continues to have an impact on the lives of many in India.
-- For more about Church of the Brethren relationships in India, where the denomination relates to both the Church of North India and the Church of the Brethren India, go to www.brethren.org/site/PageServer?pagename=go_places_serve_india.
Herb and Jeanne Smith recently taught a course in Brethren history and traditions at Gujarat School of Theology, a seminary of the Church of North India (CNI). Affiliated with McPherson (Kan.) College, the Smiths have taken students and alumni on international trips every January interterm. They also have taught at universities in Japan and India during sabbaticals. This second experience in India, however, of all their travels and teaching was the most impactful. Following is their report:
India assaults the senses, intrigues the intellect, and inspires the spirit. In this land of enchanting diversity, the Church of the Brethren initiated its mission in 1895. Eventually over 90 schools were founded along the central western coast in an area of over 7,000 square miles.
As we were anticipating flying to Ahmadabad to teach at the Gujarat School of Theology, we were naturally apprehensive. Both of us during our educational training had experienced presentations by guest professors from other cultures, not usually in sync with the students. The apprehension was heightened when upon arrival we found out that our teaching would be translated line by line from English to a Gujarat dialect.
To our surprise, the sessions on Church of the Brethren history and traditions were very well received by both the seminary students and the professors who attended.
The School of Theology is the graduate seminary for CNI. In 1970, amid considerable controversy, the Church of the Brethren joined this consortium consisting of six denominations. The school is located in the semi-arid city of Ahmadabad, where Mahatma Gandhi had his ashram and began the long trek of his epic salt march.
Because most of the seminarians and faculty had come from other denominational backgrounds, the history and traditions of the Brethren were almost entirely new to them. The service motif and the pacifist stance were highlighted. Since CNI has adopted both the Apostles and Nicene Creeds, we featured the Brethren emphasis on the teachings of Christ, which are totally omitted by the creeds. Also, much emphasis was placed on the monumental change when the fourth century Roman emperor Constantine militarized his understanding of the Christian faith.
One of the seminary students shared about his background and decision to join the Christian faith and prepare for the ministry. His decision was made under threat of death in a province where the right-wing BJP political party promotes a brand of Hindu fundamentalism, and Christianity is not well received by the general population.
Stirring the emotions was a visit to the leprosy settlement supported by CNI. Everyone has heard of Mother Teresa, but few have been told about Father Albert--except for people who beg throughout north India. Lame since birth, this saint personally applies salve to the wounds of those with Hansen’s disease (leprosy) and directs an orphanage of 76 children whose parents have died of this debilitating disease. In India, those with leprosy often are shunned by their families and are left homeless in the streets. Father Albert’s compound provides warmth in the context of Christian love.
From the pioneer era of Mary and Wilbur Stover along with Bertha Ryan, the Church of the Brethren continues to have an impact on the lives of many in India.
-- For more about Church of the Brethren relationships in India, where the denomination relates to both the Church of North India and the Church of the Brethren India, go to www.brethren.org/site/PageServer?pagename=go_places_serve_india.
Palsgrove resigns from Brethren Service Center staff.
Ed Palsgrove, director of Buildings and Grounds at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., has announced his resignation effective May 10. He has worked most of the last 35 years improving, fixing, and re-creating the rooms and buildings needed for ministries housed there.
Palsgrove began working at the Brethren Service Center on Oct. 15, 1975, as a truck driver. His breadth of skills also includes plumbing, electrical, HVAC, fire fighting, phone system management, construction coordination, locksmithing, and much more. He is known for approaching the work at the center with integrity, careful stewardship, and care for God’s creation. He plans to continue living in New Windsor, where he will start in a new position with a local manufacturer of high tech testing equipment.
Ed Palsgrove, director of Buildings and Grounds at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., has announced his resignation effective May 10. He has worked most of the last 35 years improving, fixing, and re-creating the rooms and buildings needed for ministries housed there.
Palsgrove began working at the Brethren Service Center on Oct. 15, 1975, as a truck driver. His breadth of skills also includes plumbing, electrical, HVAC, fire fighting, phone system management, construction coordination, locksmithing, and much more. He is known for approaching the work at the center with integrity, careful stewardship, and care for God’s creation. He plans to continue living in New Windsor, where he will start in a new position with a local manufacturer of high tech testing equipment.
Fasting initiative focuses on world’s vulnerable.
The Peace Witness Ministries of the Church of the Brethren, located in Washington, D.C., and the Global Food Crisis Fund are highlighting a fasting initiative scheduled to begin March 28.
Appealing to Americans to seek divine guidance by humbling themselves before God, hunger advocate Tony Hall announced he will begin a spiritual fast on March 28 to reflect on the condition of the poor and hungry in the US and around the world. He is inviting others to join personally and collectively in the venture.
Concerned over the impact of rising food and energy prices and Congressional budget cuts on the poor, the former Ohio Congressman envisions collective fasting and prayer forming "a circle of protection" around the vulnerable people of the world.
The Peace Witness Ministries office for the past several months has been calling on church members to contact their representatives in Congress on issues ranging from the federal budget to the situation of the Gulf Coast, from the war in Afghanistan to gun violence. "What is perhaps even more important, however, is that these actions grow out of our spiritual practices, and be grounded in a sense of worship," said advocacy officer Jordan Blevins.
In 1993 Hall fasted for 22 days to call attention to what he termed "the lack of conscience in the US Congress for hungry people." "But," he reflected, "everything we planned didn’t work, but what did work was greater than anything we planned."
"What fasting is about is God--putting God first," he continued. "It’s way beyond us. We need to humble ourselves and get out of the way. When you both fast and pray, fasting puts a real edge to your prayers."
Hall invites those who join with him to define for themselves what sacrificial participation means. Where the fasting leads and how long it will go on are unknown, but what is known is the fervor that Hall has "to grow the circle" around the country.
With support from the Alliance to End Hunger, the organization that Hall heads, along with Bread for the World, Sojourners, World Vision, and a host of other organizations engaged in hunger advocacy and action, the focus on fasting will utilize the social media. The fast will be announced at a prayer vigil on Capitol Hill in partnership with Ecumenical Advocacy Days, where more than 600 Christians will gather.
An action alert from Peace Witness Ministries at http://cob.convio.net/site/MessageViewer?em_id=10421.0&dlv_id=13101 provides information about Ecumenical Advocacy Days. The website www.hungerfast.com spells out principles, rationale, and platform for the fast. Bread for the World offers a guide to fasting as a spiritual discipline at https://secure3.convio.net/bread/site/SPageNavigator/fast.html?utm_source=otheremail&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=
lent2011&JServSessionIdr004=s2iijuhkx1.app305b.
-- Jordan Blevins and Howard Royer provided this information. Royer manages the Global Food Crisis Fund and participated in a March 15 conference call in which Hall and Alliance staff convened leaders of faith-related hunger groups. He welcomes ideas about how Brethren may take part in the fast, contact hroyer@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 264. Blevins is advocacy officer and ecumenical peace coordinator for the Church of the Brethren and the NCC. For information about worship and advocacy opportunities contact him at jblevins@brethren.org.
The Peace Witness Ministries of the Church of the Brethren, located in Washington, D.C., and the Global Food Crisis Fund are highlighting a fasting initiative scheduled to begin March 28.
Appealing to Americans to seek divine guidance by humbling themselves before God, hunger advocate Tony Hall announced he will begin a spiritual fast on March 28 to reflect on the condition of the poor and hungry in the US and around the world. He is inviting others to join personally and collectively in the venture.
Concerned over the impact of rising food and energy prices and Congressional budget cuts on the poor, the former Ohio Congressman envisions collective fasting and prayer forming "a circle of protection" around the vulnerable people of the world.
The Peace Witness Ministries office for the past several months has been calling on church members to contact their representatives in Congress on issues ranging from the federal budget to the situation of the Gulf Coast, from the war in Afghanistan to gun violence. "What is perhaps even more important, however, is that these actions grow out of our spiritual practices, and be grounded in a sense of worship," said advocacy officer Jordan Blevins.
In 1993 Hall fasted for 22 days to call attention to what he termed "the lack of conscience in the US Congress for hungry people." "But," he reflected, "everything we planned didn’t work, but what did work was greater than anything we planned."
"What fasting is about is God--putting God first," he continued. "It’s way beyond us. We need to humble ourselves and get out of the way. When you both fast and pray, fasting puts a real edge to your prayers."
Hall invites those who join with him to define for themselves what sacrificial participation means. Where the fasting leads and how long it will go on are unknown, but what is known is the fervor that Hall has "to grow the circle" around the country.
With support from the Alliance to End Hunger, the organization that Hall heads, along with Bread for the World, Sojourners, World Vision, and a host of other organizations engaged in hunger advocacy and action, the focus on fasting will utilize the social media. The fast will be announced at a prayer vigil on Capitol Hill in partnership with Ecumenical Advocacy Days, where more than 600 Christians will gather.
An action alert from Peace Witness Ministries at http://cob.convio.net/site/MessageViewer?em_id=10421.0&dlv_id=13101 provides information about Ecumenical Advocacy Days. The website www.hungerfast.com spells out principles, rationale, and platform for the fast. Bread for the World offers a guide to fasting as a spiritual discipline at https://secure3.convio.net/bread/site/SPageNavigator/fast.html?utm_source=otheremail&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=
lent2011&JServSessionIdr004=s2iijuhkx1.app305b.
-- Jordan Blevins and Howard Royer provided this information. Royer manages the Global Food Crisis Fund and participated in a March 15 conference call in which Hall and Alliance staff convened leaders of faith-related hunger groups. He welcomes ideas about how Brethren may take part in the fast, contact hroyer@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 264. Blevins is advocacy officer and ecumenical peace coordinator for the Church of the Brethren and the NCC. For information about worship and advocacy opportunities contact him at jblevins@brethren.org.
Registration is now open for National Older Adult Conference.
Registration has begun for the 2011 National Older Adult Conference (NOAC). Brochures have been mailed to past participants, congregations, district offices, and retirement communities, and a copy is in the April "Source" packet mailed to each church in the denomination. Complete conference information and online registration is available at www.brethren.org/NOAC .
Participants may register online with a credit card or print the form to pay by check through the mail. Reservations for lodging at the Lake Junaluska (N.C.) Conference and Retreat Center must be postmarked or faxed April 1 or later. Those with special lodging needs are encouraged to make their reservations between April 1-15 for priority consideration.
NOAC begins Monday, Sept. 5, with evening worship featuring Robert Bowman as preacher, and concludes following the closing worship service on Friday morning, Sept. 9, when Susan Boyer delivers the message.
In between, participants will enjoy keynote presentations by Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove, David E. Fuchs and Curtis W. Dubble, and C. Michael Hawn; a musical performance by Amy Yovanovich and Chrystian Seay; a hymn sing; and a concert by Mutual Kumquat. Cherokee tales will be offered by Freeman Owle, while Philip Gulley will share humorous and poignant stories of small-town life. Gulley also preaches for Wednesday evening’s worship. Dawn Ottoni-Wilhelm will lead morning Bible studies. There also will be many opportunities for learning, recreation, creativity, service, fellowship, and enjoying the beautiful conference grounds.
NOAC would not be complete without the ice cream socials sponsored by the Fellowship of Brethren Homes, Bethany Seminary, and the six colleges and university associated with the Church of the Brethren. NOAC organizers appreciate the financial sponsorship of Brethren Benefit Trust (morning Bible studies), Brethren Village (Fuchs and Dubble keynote speech), the Palms of Sebring (concert by Amy Yovanovich and Chrystian Seay), and Everence (Robert Bowman’s presentation).
For additional information about NOAC contact 800-323-8039 ext. 302 or kebersole@brethren.org. Information also is at www.brethren.org/NOAC.
-- Kim Ebersole is conference coordinator for NOAC and serves as director of Family Life and Older Adult Ministries in the Church of the Brethren.
Registration has begun for the 2011 National Older Adult Conference (NOAC). Brochures have been mailed to past participants, congregations, district offices, and retirement communities, and a copy is in the April "Source" packet mailed to each church in the denomination. Complete conference information and online registration is available at www.brethren.org/NOAC .Participants may register online with a credit card or print the form to pay by check through the mail. Reservations for lodging at the Lake Junaluska (N.C.) Conference and Retreat Center must be postmarked or faxed April 1 or later. Those with special lodging needs are encouraged to make their reservations between April 1-15 for priority consideration.
NOAC begins Monday, Sept. 5, with evening worship featuring Robert Bowman as preacher, and concludes following the closing worship service on Friday morning, Sept. 9, when Susan Boyer delivers the message.
In between, participants will enjoy keynote presentations by Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove, David E. Fuchs and Curtis W. Dubble, and C. Michael Hawn; a musical performance by Amy Yovanovich and Chrystian Seay; a hymn sing; and a concert by Mutual Kumquat. Cherokee tales will be offered by Freeman Owle, while Philip Gulley will share humorous and poignant stories of small-town life. Gulley also preaches for Wednesday evening’s worship. Dawn Ottoni-Wilhelm will lead morning Bible studies. There also will be many opportunities for learning, recreation, creativity, service, fellowship, and enjoying the beautiful conference grounds.
NOAC would not be complete without the ice cream socials sponsored by the Fellowship of Brethren Homes, Bethany Seminary, and the six colleges and university associated with the Church of the Brethren. NOAC organizers appreciate the financial sponsorship of Brethren Benefit Trust (morning Bible studies), Brethren Village (Fuchs and Dubble keynote speech), the Palms of Sebring (concert by Amy Yovanovich and Chrystian Seay), and Everence (Robert Bowman’s presentation).
For additional information about NOAC contact 800-323-8039 ext. 302 or kebersole@brethren.org. Information also is at www.brethren.org/NOAC.
-- Kim Ebersole is conference coordinator for NOAC and serves as director of Family Life and Older Adult Ministries in the Church of the Brethren.
Invest in education: A note from the president of Manchester College.
The following reflection on budget decisions at the state and federal levels, and their potential effect on college students, was shared by president Jo Young Switzer of Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind. It appeared March 1 as a reflection in her "Notes from the President":
"Budget decisions at the state and federal levels are dominating the news. The State of Indiana and the nation are struggling to bring their budgets under control, work that is long overdue. When I was responsible only for my own classes and students, I did not understand the powerful impact of budget policies on students’ access to college.
"My hope for this process is that our representatives and senators would a) cut areas that are overfunded or not central to our most important priorities and simultaneously b) invest in initiatives and programs that will spur economic recovery. How disappointing it is that both in Indianapolis and in Washington, D.C., the conversations moved quickly to reductions in aid for the financially neediest of college students.
"Manchester College receives no direct funding from the state. Our students, however, qualify for state and federal need-based grants. How disappointing that the legislators are choosing to increase funding for students at for-profit universities, several of which are under investigation for encouraging excessive student loan borrowing and for garnering 90 percent of their revenues from these student loans, many of which are in default. How disappointing that several public universities hired teams of lobbyists to persuade legislators to decrease scholarship levels for Indiana students at independent colleges and universities in the state.
"We will continue to advocate for financial aid for students whose families cannot carry their college expenses alone. We hope you will join us in that advocacy. At the same time, the college also has chosen to provide significant financial aid for our students. We cannot, however, continue to make up for such large decreases in state and national grants. State aid alone has decreased 38 percent over the last two years. Manchester has long welcomed students with modest means and we now find it harder and harder to provide enough scholarships to keep those students in school.
"In the end, the state and the nation must invest in education. Educated citizens bring the abilities to address complex problems, including reducing the national debt. Educated citizens have the skills and dispositions to overcome differences and find imaginative solutions to difficult problems. Education is an investment in the future. In the days ahead, I hope our politicians realize that."
The following reflection on budget decisions at the state and federal levels, and their potential effect on college students, was shared by president Jo Young Switzer of Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind. It appeared March 1 as a reflection in her "Notes from the President":
"Budget decisions at the state and federal levels are dominating the news. The State of Indiana and the nation are struggling to bring their budgets under control, work that is long overdue. When I was responsible only for my own classes and students, I did not understand the powerful impact of budget policies on students’ access to college.
"My hope for this process is that our representatives and senators would a) cut areas that are overfunded or not central to our most important priorities and simultaneously b) invest in initiatives and programs that will spur economic recovery. How disappointing it is that both in Indianapolis and in Washington, D.C., the conversations moved quickly to reductions in aid for the financially neediest of college students.
"Manchester College receives no direct funding from the state. Our students, however, qualify for state and federal need-based grants. How disappointing that the legislators are choosing to increase funding for students at for-profit universities, several of which are under investigation for encouraging excessive student loan borrowing and for garnering 90 percent of their revenues from these student loans, many of which are in default. How disappointing that several public universities hired teams of lobbyists to persuade legislators to decrease scholarship levels for Indiana students at independent colleges and universities in the state.
"We will continue to advocate for financial aid for students whose families cannot carry their college expenses alone. We hope you will join us in that advocacy. At the same time, the college also has chosen to provide significant financial aid for our students. We cannot, however, continue to make up for such large decreases in state and national grants. State aid alone has decreased 38 percent over the last two years. Manchester has long welcomed students with modest means and we now find it harder and harder to provide enough scholarships to keep those students in school.
"In the end, the state and the nation must invest in education. Educated citizens bring the abilities to address complex problems, including reducing the national debt. Educated citizens have the skills and dispositions to overcome differences and find imaginative solutions to difficult problems. Education is an investment in the future. In the days ahead, I hope our politicians realize that."
Brethren bits: Personnel, job opening, Year for People of African Descent, more.
- The positions of dishwasher and Conference Center secretary at the New Windsor (Md.) Conference Center have been eliminated as of March 22, and the services of David Zaruba and Connie Bohn ended on the same date. The elimination of these positions occurred due to the significant budget shortfalls at the Conference Center over the past several years and the budget reduction measures put in place to remedy the situation. Both Zaruba and Bohn will receive a three-month severance package for regular salary and benefits as well as outplacement services. Zaruba was hired as dishwasher in Dining Services on May 8, 2003, and Bohn has served in the Conference Center secretary position since June 2, 1999.
- Bethany Theological Seminary seeks a full-time director of communications. Bethany is the graduate school and academy of the Church of the Brethren, located in Richmond, Ind., offering MDiv and MA programs with local and distance tracks. The director will have education and experience in communications to strengthen, expand, and manage the image and awareness of the seminary; develop and execute communications plans, strategies, and tactics; serve diverse stakeholder groups, both internal and external; work collaboratively with director of electronic communications; share the vision of an inquiring thoughtful Christian faith. Candidates should have strong organizational abilities, interpersonal skills, excellent writing and oral communication, knowledge of electronic technology and software for design and production of communication pieces, and an eye and imagination tuned to newsworthy developments in the Bethany community to be sent as timely printed and electronic news releases. Bachelor’s degree with experience and knowledge of the Church of the Brethren preferred. Letters of application, resumes, samples of work or portfolio should be sent to: Director of Communications Search, Bethany Theological Seminary, 615 National Road West, Richmond, IN 47374; or communications.search@bethanyseminary.edu. Application deadline is May 1 or until the position is filled.
- Doris Abdullah, Church of the Brethren representative to the United Nations, will bring opening remarks at the International Day for the Elimination of Racism program at the UN tomorrow, March 24. She is co-chair of the Subcommittee for the Elimination of Racism of the NGO Committee on Human Rights. The focus will be the International Year for People of African Descent in 2011, which "aims to advance the integration of people of African descent into all political, economic, social, and cultural aspects of society and to promote a greater knowledge of and respect for their diverse heritage and culture." The program will consist of panel presentations, a poetry performance, and audience interaction. Speakers include Howard Dodson of the New York Public Library Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, along with representatives of the missions to the UN from Colombia, Ghana, and Jamaica, and James Jackson of the University of Michigan. Performing will be Anis Mojgani, two-time National Poetry Slam Champion and Winner of the International World Cup Poetry Slam. The event is 3-6 p.m. on the 10th floor of the Church Center in New York.
- A new Spanish language certificate-level ministry training program, Seminario Biblico Anabautista Hispano-de la Iglesia de los Hermanos (SeBAH-CoB), is available through the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership. This program is a partnership between the Brethren Academy and the Mennonite Education Agency (MEA)-Hispanic Pastoral and Leadership Education office. Twenty students from Atlantic Northeast District attended an orientation weekend Jan. 20-23 at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. Seven students from Pacific Southwest District will participate after attending orientation March 6-12. Rafael Barahona, associate director of MEA and director of SeBAH, was the orientation instructor. Both districts are providing significant spiritual, academic, and financial support for their students in this ministry training program. For information contact the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership at academy@bethanyseminary.edu or 800-287-8822 ext. 1824.
- Photographs of Brethren "extending the table" are sought for a presentation during the closing worship service of the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference. The service is Wednesday, July 6, in Grand Rapids, Mich., on the theme, "Jesus Extends the Table to Us." Photographs will be displayed on large screens during an act of commissioning for the congregation. The worship planning team asks for help from Brethren photographers in acquiring photos of ways in which congregations extend hospitality and welcome to others, because Jesus welcomed us. Images may be from celebrations of Love Feast, but also may show ways congregations greet people as they arrive for worship, reach out into the community, and engage in service ministries. Photographers are requested to contribute only their own original works, and to have the permission of people pictured in any photos that are submitted. Send photographs as jpg attachments to an e-mail to Rhonda Pittman Gingrich at rpgingrich@yahoo.com, along with credit information and written permission for their use by the Annual Conference.
- Bethany Theological Seminary is offering "Sabbath space" on its campus in Richmond, Ind., on March 27-28. An announcement said: "At this moment in our national and denominational life, and taking Jesus seriously, Bethany Seminary is opening a Sabbath space for all people beginning on Sunday, March 27, at 5 p.m. with a simple fellowship meal and closing on Monday, March 28, by 3 p.m. The purpose of our gathering is to remember together that God is our creator, that we belong to God, and that we find our freedom and our joy in reconciliation with God and one another." The event will include worship, opportunities for prayer in small groups, and space for individual meditation. There is no charge, but those who plan to attend are requested to register. A registration form is at www.bethanyseminary.edu/news/sabbathspace.
- Churches interested in becoming sites to provide food to hungry children through the federal Summer Food Service program are invited to the USDA’s "Summer Food Service Program Webinar for Faith-Based Organizations" on March 29 from 3-4 p.m. (eastern time). Each summer, 22.3 million students are at risk of going hungry when the school year ends. For many children, school meals are the only complete and nutritious meals they eat, and in the summer they go without. The Summer Food Service Program helps fill the gap for low-income children. It is federally funded and administered by states that reimburse organizations for meals served to children during the summer. Participants in the webinar will need access to a phone line and a computer with Internet access. To participate, complete the registration form at http://vovici.com/wsb.dll/s/17fb9g48fe7. More information is at www.summerfood.usda.gov.
- Lakeland Song and Story Fest takes place June 26-July 2 at Camp Brethren Heights near Rodney, Mich. This is the 15th summer in a row for the annual intergenerational family camp co-sponsored by On Earth Peace. Ken Kline Smeltzer serves as director. This year’s theme is "Between the Waters." The camp features Brethren storytellers, musicians, and workshop leaders. Registration is $250 for adults, $200 for teenagers, $120 for children ages 4-12, children 3 and under welcome at no charge. Maximum fee per family is $750. Daily fees also are available. Registrations after June will be charged a late fee. Register online at www.onearthpeace.org/programs/special/song-story-fest/registration.html. For more information go to www.onearthpeace.org/programs/special/song-story-fest/index.html or contact bksmeltz@comcast.net.
- Washington City Church of the Brethren in Washington, D.C., is part of a new rainbarrel project to prevent pollution in the Anacostia River from stormwater runoff from buildings in Washington, D.C. A 650 gallon rainwater cistern will collect rain water from the church roof, thanks to a grant from the District Department of the Environment. The project is a community partnership bringing together Capitol Hill houses of worship and neighborhood groups for stormwater education, cistern installation, and garden care. Partner organizations are Anacostia Riverkeeper and Groundwork Anacostia, which employs local youth to help install the cisterns.
- "Is Pacifism a Core Christian Value?" is the theme for a March 26 event of Mid-Atlantic District Peace and Justice Committee, at University Park Church of the Brethren in Hyattsville, Md. Stan Noffsinger, general secretary of the Church of the Brethren, is keynote speaker. Panel members include Jordan Blevins, ecumenical peace advocate for the Church of the Brethren and National Council of Churches; Marie Benner-Rhodes, coordinator for peace education, On Earth Peace; and Jeff Scott, JD, of Westminster Church of the Brethren. The event is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Attendees are to prepare by reading "Christian Understanding of War in an Age of Terror(ism)," available at www.ncccusa.org/witnesses2010 (scroll down to "Visioning Conversations" and click "Full Text of the Five Vision Papers", then select the above paper). Register by contacting Terri Meushaw at aamad@brethren.org or 410-635-8790.
- The Shenandoah District Office in Weyers Cave, Va., is serving as a kit depot for Church World Service (CWS) through April 21. Health kits, school kits, baby layette kits, and clean-up buckets are being accepted. Drop off completed kits at the lower level of the office from 9 a.m. to noon, Mondays through Thursdays. All kits must be boxed in order to be loaded onto the truck for delivery to the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. Boxes and tape are provided. Plastic buckets are available for a $2 donation. Kits will be loaded onto the truck on April 25.
- Fahrney-Keedy Home and Village has received high scores in Maryland’s survey of residents’ families, according to a release from the Brethren retirement community near Boonsboro. For 2010, the survey contacted 16,765 persons representing residents at 224 homes. "This is the fourth year of the survey, and the Boonsboro facility has received some of the state’s highest ratings every time," the release said. For example, of Fahrney-Keedy’s responding parties in 2010, 98 percent said they would recommend the nursing home to others, compared with a 90 percent average statewide. For overall care received, Fahrney-Keedy respondents rated the home at 9.3 on a 10-point scale. Statewide in this category, homes received an average rating of 8.4.
- The Ann and Steve Morgan Auditorium Dedication Week at the University of La Verne, Calif., will feature journalist Mark Pinsky speaking on "Faith, Media and Pop Culture," March 31 at 7:30 p.m. A release from the university noted that Pinsky has authored books on faith and entertainment including "The Gospel According to Disney," "The Gospel According to the Simpsons," and "A Jew Among the Evangelicals: A Guide for the Perplexed." The event is free, seating is limited. Visit http://markpinskyevent.eventbrite.com or call 909-593-3511 ext. 4589.
- The Young Center at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College holds its Durnbaugh Lectures on April 7-8 with Dale Stoffer, academic dean of Ashland Theological Seminary. The lectures commemorate the scholarship of Donald and Hedda Durnbaugh. Stoffer will present "The Pilgrim and the Printer: The First Two Bibles in Colonial America" at 7:30 p.m. on April 7 in the Susquehanna Room of Myer Hall. The lecture follows the annual Young Center banquet. A reception begins at 5:30 p.m., followed by the dinner at 6 p.m. Stoffer also will present a seminar, "From Berleburg to Germantown: Radical Pietist Readings from the Bible," at 10 a.m. April 8 at the Young Center. A lunch is available after the seminar. Lecture and seminar are free. Cost for the banquet is $18. Cost for the luncheon is $10. Reservations required by March 24, call 717-361-1470.
- A new book from Elizabethtown (Pa.) College professor Michael G. Long marks the first publication of early letters of Thurgood Marshall. "Marshalling Justice: The Early Civil Rights Letters of Thurgood Marshall" was published by Amistad/HarperCollins in February. Long is associate professor of religious studies and peace and conflict studies. "I undertook this study partly to supplement our image of Thurgood Marshall as the first African American justice on the Supreme Court," Long said in a press release. From 1967-1991, Marshall was the most important and influential civil rights leader in the US before the emergence of Martin Luther King Jr. in 1955. Almost 20 years prior to the Montgomery bus boycott, Marshall began work as an attorney for the NAACP and played a critical role in the growth of the civil rights movement.
- The Global Women’s Project Steering Committee met on March 3-5 in Richmond, Ind. Founded in 1978, the project is a Brethren-related group with the purpose to "educate about wealth, power and oppression, encouraging one another to live more simply and be mindful of our luxuries and join in empowerment with women around the world, sharing resources with women’s initiatives." The committee reaffirmed and released funds to partner projects in Rwanda, Wabash, Ind., Uganda, and Sudan, and planned for education and outreach in the coming year. They had the opportunity to speak at a Peace Forum at Bethany Theological Seminary and Earlham School of Religion, and provided leadership for a chapel service. Sister Stella Sabina, from a partner project in Uganda, spoke about the oppressive tribal traditions in her homeland and her efforts to educate and support women and girls there. The group also met with Roland Kreager, general secretary of Right Sharing of World Resources, a Quaker organization. On the committee are Kim Hill Smith of Minneapolis, Minn.; Anna Lisa Gross of Richmond, Ind.; Carrie Eikler of Morgantown, W.Va.; and Nan Erbaugh of W. Alexandria, Ohio.
- Ruby Sheldon, a pilot and active member of Papago Buttes Church of the Brethren in Scottsdale, Ariz., was celebrated in a newsletter from Pacific Southwest District. "At age 92, Ruby is only 70 years older than the younger pilots in last June's 34th annual Air Race Classic," the newsletter said. She and about 100 other female pilots flew 2,000 miles in four days. She has often been among the top 10 finishers of the race, taking first place in 1995.
- The unusual blog "Who are the churches in your neighborhood" comments on a recent visit to an unidentified Church of the Brethren congregation, during week 12 of a year-long project to worship with the 50 closest churches to the author’s home. The post titled "Who’s in Charge Here Anyway?" celebrates the way each person "acted as if this church was their home." Find it at http://neighborhoodchurches.blogspot.com/2011/03/week-12-church-of-brethren.html.
Credits
Newsline is produced by the news services of the Church of the Brethren. Contact editor Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford at cobnews@brethren.org. Contributors include Lowell Flory, Elizabeth Harvey, Julie Hostetter, Karin Krog, Terrell Lewis, Glen Sargent, Kim Hill Smith, and Julia Wheeler.
Newsline is produced by the news services of the Church of the Brethren. Contact editor Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford at cobnews@brethren.org. Contributors include Lowell Flory, Elizabeth Harvey, Julie Hostetter, Karin Krog, Terrell Lewis, Glen Sargent, Kim Hill Smith, and Julia Wheeler.
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