UPCOMING EVENTS
RESOURCES
Wednesday, April 13, 2005
NEWS
Mission Alive 2005 energizes Brethren for mission.
Emergency Disaster Fund disburses six grants totaling $232,500.
Anniversary group plans Youth Heritage Travel Teams.
Study committee on Doing Church Business meets, makes plans.
On Earth Peace forms Peace Retreat Leadership Team.
Brethren bits: Job opening, Annual Conference, and more.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Assembly speakers will focus on 'Peace Beyond Our Fears.'
RESOURCES
Office encourages youth to start conscientious objector files.
UPCOMING EVENTS
RESOURCES
Mission Alive 2005 energizes Brethren for mission.
Mission Alive 2005, a conference "designed to energize and equip members of the Church of the Brethren to faithfully share Christ's love with the world," took place in Goshen, Ind., April 1-3. With over 320 participants, the first-ever national Church of the Brethren mission conference gathered Brethren from 21 of the 23 districts. The General Board's Global Mission Partnerships was the lead sponsor, but planners emphasized widespread participation in service or funding from individuals, congregations, and denominational groups that in the end helped make the conference successful, according to the Global Mission Partnerships Office.
The conference opened with a worship message by Nathan Showalter focused on "The Biblical Face of Mission." Showalter, director of Community Center Shanghai and country strategist China with Eastern Mennonite Mission, spoke of a paradigm shift that has taken place in the mission field in the last few years. "The 500-year-long missionary era that began when Christopher Columbus `discovered' the New World is over," stated Showalter. He said that in the past, the focus has been "missions" (what the church is doing), but the focus has now shifted to joining "God's mission," which transcends individual programs by various organizations.
Showalter joined Art McPhee to give another worship message on "New Faces of Mission: Emerging Models." McPhee is associate professor of Mission and Intercultural Studies at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary. The session highlighted stories from successful missions programs around the world. Many new missions programs are being started at the grassroots level by individuals rather than institutions, the speakers said. Technology also is changing the mission field, making it possible to reach people through nontraditional methods. Without the ability to love one's neighbor, the desire to lead someone to Christ and the methods by which someone is led to Christ can be misguided, McPhee said. "The Great Commandment must always precede the Great Commission."
A sweeping historical panorama of missions from the Roman era to the present was presented by Grace Holland, who with her husband, Fred, spent 23 years with Brethren in Christ World Missions in Zimbabwe and Zambia. She currently serves as chair of the same group. She warned that "keeping the treasure of Jesus Christ to ourselves could cost us our civilization." Annual Conference moderator Jim Hardenbrook encouraged participants to "Go, see, and love," in a sermon entitled, "Setting Your Face...Toward Mission: Accepting the Challenge, and Going Forth to Serve!"
In a panel discussion, Brethren speakers answered the question, "What distinctive gifts, or weaknesses, does the Church of the Brethren bring to mission from its Anabaptist-Pietist identity?" Brethren emphasis on holistic mission was a natural outcome of this heritage, according to some presenters. Bradley Bohrer, pastor of Brook Park (Ind.) Church of the Brethren and former Nigeria mission staff, moderated the session. Other panel members were Jeff Bach, associate professor of Brethren and Historical Studies at Bethany Theological Seminary; Peggy Boshart, former mission staff in the Dominican Republic; Merv Keeney, executive director of Global Mission Partnerships; Suely Inhauser, national co-director for the Church of the Brethren Brazil mission; and J. Roger Schrock, pastor of Cabool (Mo.) Church of the Brethren and former denominational mission executive.
An offering for new mission ventures received $13,231.03 for the General Board's Emerging Global Mission Fund, including special gifts from congregations.
Members of the steering committee reported that evaluations were overwhelmingly positive. "I felt a strong sense of unity and positive energy," noted Larry Dentler. "Many participants anticipated this event to be the beginning of a series of mission conferences," added Carol Spicher Waggy. The steering committee also included James F. Myer, Carolyn Schrock, and Keeney.
For more information about the General Board's mission programs, contact Janis Pyle, coordinator for Mission Connections, at jpyle_gb@brethren.org or call 800-323-8039 ext. 227.
Source: 4/13/2005 Newsline
top
Mission Alive 2005, a conference "designed to energize and equip members of the Church of the Brethren to faithfully share Christ's love with the world," took place in Goshen, Ind., April 1-3. With over 320 participants, the first-ever national Church of the Brethren mission conference gathered Brethren from 21 of the 23 districts. The General Board's Global Mission Partnerships was the lead sponsor, but planners emphasized widespread participation in service or funding from individuals, congregations, and denominational groups that in the end helped make the conference successful, according to the Global Mission Partnerships Office.
The conference opened with a worship message by Nathan Showalter focused on "The Biblical Face of Mission." Showalter, director of Community Center Shanghai and country strategist China with Eastern Mennonite Mission, spoke of a paradigm shift that has taken place in the mission field in the last few years. "The 500-year-long missionary era that began when Christopher Columbus `discovered' the New World is over," stated Showalter. He said that in the past, the focus has been "missions" (what the church is doing), but the focus has now shifted to joining "God's mission," which transcends individual programs by various organizations.
Showalter joined Art McPhee to give another worship message on "New Faces of Mission: Emerging Models." McPhee is associate professor of Mission and Intercultural Studies at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary. The session highlighted stories from successful missions programs around the world. Many new missions programs are being started at the grassroots level by individuals rather than institutions, the speakers said. Technology also is changing the mission field, making it possible to reach people through nontraditional methods. Without the ability to love one's neighbor, the desire to lead someone to Christ and the methods by which someone is led to Christ can be misguided, McPhee said. "The Great Commandment must always precede the Great Commission."
A sweeping historical panorama of missions from the Roman era to the present was presented by Grace Holland, who with her husband, Fred, spent 23 years with Brethren in Christ World Missions in Zimbabwe and Zambia. She currently serves as chair of the same group. She warned that "keeping the treasure of Jesus Christ to ourselves could cost us our civilization." Annual Conference moderator Jim Hardenbrook encouraged participants to "Go, see, and love," in a sermon entitled, "Setting Your Face...Toward Mission: Accepting the Challenge, and Going Forth to Serve!"
In a panel discussion, Brethren speakers answered the question, "What distinctive gifts, or weaknesses, does the Church of the Brethren bring to mission from its Anabaptist-Pietist identity?" Brethren emphasis on holistic mission was a natural outcome of this heritage, according to some presenters. Bradley Bohrer, pastor of Brook Park (Ind.) Church of the Brethren and former Nigeria mission staff, moderated the session. Other panel members were Jeff Bach, associate professor of Brethren and Historical Studies at Bethany Theological Seminary; Peggy Boshart, former mission staff in the Dominican Republic; Merv Keeney, executive director of Global Mission Partnerships; Suely Inhauser, national co-director for the Church of the Brethren Brazil mission; and J. Roger Schrock, pastor of Cabool (Mo.) Church of the Brethren and former denominational mission executive.
An offering for new mission ventures received $13,231.03 for the General Board's Emerging Global Mission Fund, including special gifts from congregations.
Members of the steering committee reported that evaluations were overwhelmingly positive. "I felt a strong sense of unity and positive energy," noted Larry Dentler. "Many participants anticipated this event to be the beginning of a series of mission conferences," added Carol Spicher Waggy. The steering committee also included James F. Myer, Carolyn Schrock, and Keeney.
For more information about the General Board's mission programs, contact Janis Pyle, coordinator for Mission Connections, at jpyle_gb@brethren.org or call 800-323-8039 ext. 227.
Source: 4/13/2005 Newsline
top
Emergency Disaster Fund disburses six grants totaling $232,500.
Six grants totaling $232,500 have been given from the General Board's Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF) for tsunami relief and work in Sudan, Arizona, Mexico, and China. Giving to the EDF in 2005 has now topped $1 million, totaling $1,036,024 as of today.
An allocation of $150,000 continues Church of the Brethren support of a Church World Service appeal for work in southern Asia following the tsunami Dec. 26. The money will provide emergency food, medical support, drinking water, and shelter, along with mental health interventions and income-generating programs. Another $30,000 will go to Service Ministries' tsunami relief efforts. As a result of this disaster, the program based at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., has received 330,000 pounds of Gift of the Heart kits and over 327,000 pounds of aid. The funds will help cover additional staff and volunteer expenses needed for this large response effort. Including these two grants, to date the EDF has given a total of $360,000 toward tsunami relief.
An allocation of $25,000 supports an Action by Churches Together International (ACT) appeal for repatriation, relief, and rehabilitation for displaced families returning to southern Sudan. The money will help with food production, infrastructure development in health and education, and social services and activities.
Another $10,000 supports an ACT appeal for relief work in China following snowstorms and accompanying avalanches, landslides, and mudslides. The grant will help distribute food and blankets and rebuild homes, schools, and irrigation canals for drinking water systems.
An allocation of $10,000 supports the work of Companeros en Ministerio after mudslides destroyed more than 150 homes in Tijuana, Mexico. The funds will help repair and rebuild homes and build retaining walls. The General Board's Emergency Response program and Companeros have had successful partnerships in rebuilding homes damaged by a variety of disasters, said Roy Winter, director of Emergency Response.
A grant of $7,500 supports No More Deaths, an Arizona-based multifaith coalition supplying food, water, and medical assistance to migrants crossing the Arizona desert. "Over the last six years more than 2,000 men, women, and children have died trying to cross the Mexican border into the United States. Most of these deaths occur in the brutal heat of the summer months," Winter said. "Recognizing the current militarized border enforcement strategy is a failed policy, No More Deaths determined an around-the-clock, nonviolent, humanitarian physical presence in the desert was needed." Central to the program are camps called "Arks of the Covenant," where volunteers keep water and shelter available for migrants.
The grant has the support of Brethren congregations in Arizona. "Prior to requesting this grant, the district executive of Pacific Southwest District and all of the Church of the Brethren congregations in Arizona were consulted," Winter said. "Each of the churches that responded supported a grant to No More Deaths."
In other news, the board's Disaster Response program and volunteers who worked on a rebuilding project in Poquoson, Va., were recognized by the city council in a resolution dated Dec. 13. Poquoson was devastated by Hurricane Isabel on Sept. 18, 2003. The Brethren rebuilding project completed on March 18 repaired more than 40 homes. "The Church of the Brethren Disaster Response Program volunteer teams immediately responded to the city's needs," the resolution said. "Their dedication to the highest principles of service to humanity has earned respect, praise, and admiration of the citizens of this community."
Source: 4/13/2005 Newsline
top
Six grants totaling $232,500 have been given from the General Board's Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF) for tsunami relief and work in Sudan, Arizona, Mexico, and China. Giving to the EDF in 2005 has now topped $1 million, totaling $1,036,024 as of today.
An allocation of $150,000 continues Church of the Brethren support of a Church World Service appeal for work in southern Asia following the tsunami Dec. 26. The money will provide emergency food, medical support, drinking water, and shelter, along with mental health interventions and income-generating programs. Another $30,000 will go to Service Ministries' tsunami relief efforts. As a result of this disaster, the program based at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., has received 330,000 pounds of Gift of the Heart kits and over 327,000 pounds of aid. The funds will help cover additional staff and volunteer expenses needed for this large response effort. Including these two grants, to date the EDF has given a total of $360,000 toward tsunami relief.
An allocation of $25,000 supports an Action by Churches Together International (ACT) appeal for repatriation, relief, and rehabilitation for displaced families returning to southern Sudan. The money will help with food production, infrastructure development in health and education, and social services and activities.
Another $10,000 supports an ACT appeal for relief work in China following snowstorms and accompanying avalanches, landslides, and mudslides. The grant will help distribute food and blankets and rebuild homes, schools, and irrigation canals for drinking water systems.
An allocation of $10,000 supports the work of Companeros en Ministerio after mudslides destroyed more than 150 homes in Tijuana, Mexico. The funds will help repair and rebuild homes and build retaining walls. The General Board's Emergency Response program and Companeros have had successful partnerships in rebuilding homes damaged by a variety of disasters, said Roy Winter, director of Emergency Response.
A grant of $7,500 supports No More Deaths, an Arizona-based multifaith coalition supplying food, water, and medical assistance to migrants crossing the Arizona desert. "Over the last six years more than 2,000 men, women, and children have died trying to cross the Mexican border into the United States. Most of these deaths occur in the brutal heat of the summer months," Winter said. "Recognizing the current militarized border enforcement strategy is a failed policy, No More Deaths determined an around-the-clock, nonviolent, humanitarian physical presence in the desert was needed." Central to the program are camps called "Arks of the Covenant," where volunteers keep water and shelter available for migrants.
The grant has the support of Brethren congregations in Arizona. "Prior to requesting this grant, the district executive of Pacific Southwest District and all of the Church of the Brethren congregations in Arizona were consulted," Winter said. "Each of the churches that responded supported a grant to No More Deaths."
In other news, the board's Disaster Response program and volunteers who worked on a rebuilding project in Poquoson, Va., were recognized by the city council in a resolution dated Dec. 13. Poquoson was devastated by Hurricane Isabel on Sept. 18, 2003. The Brethren rebuilding project completed on March 18 repaired more than 40 homes. "The Church of the Brethren Disaster Response Program volunteer teams immediately responded to the city's needs," the resolution said. "Their dedication to the highest principles of service to humanity has earned respect, praise, and admiration of the citizens of this community."
Source: 4/13/2005 Newsline
top
Anniversary group plans Youth Heritage Travel Teams.
The Annual Conference Anniversary Committee met March 13-15 in Elgin, Ill. Named at Annual Conference 2000, this committee is developing events, activities, and resources to help congregations, districts, and the denomination as a whole celebrate the 300th anniversary of the Church of the Brethren in 2008.
Engaging children and youth in the anniversary celebration was a key agenda item at the meeting. The committee met with Chris Douglas, General Board director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, who has agreed to work with the committee in planning for the training and equipping of Youth Heritage Travel Teams. These teams of two youth from each district will visit congregations during the anniversary year to interpret Brethren heritage and how it can shape the church today and into the future.
The committee also met with Wendy McFadden and Nancy Klemm from Brethren Press to receive updates on publishing projects related to the anniversary. "Meanest Man in Patrick County," a book by Frank Ramirez, was released at Annual Conference last summer. The second book in the anniversary series, "Another Way of Believing," by Dale Brown on Brethren theology, should be released at Annual Conference this summer. A sourcebook by Steve Longenecker on the Brethren between the world wars is being edited and indexed. In addition, Brethren Press is beginning work on a devotional book to be used during the anniversary year.
Updates on current and potential projects fleshed out the agenda: a kick-off celebration in Germantown, Pa., in Sept. 2007; a celebration in Schwarzenau, Germany, Aug. 3, 2008; a curriculum resource for the anniversary year; plans for Annual Conference 2008; a commemorative calendar; anniversary-related courses at the Brethren colleges; a tour guide for Brethren historical sites; submission of music, drama, and worship resources; and a study guide on the anniversary theme.
For more information on anniversary plans, including the submission of original musical compositions, drama resources, and worship resources, visit www.churchofthebrethrenanniversary.org. Committee members are Jeff Bach (chair), Don Durnbaugh, Dean Garrett, Rhonda Pittman Gingrich (recorder), Leslie Lake, Lorele Yager, and Lerry Fogle (ex-officio).
Source: 4/13/2005 Newsline
top
The Annual Conference Anniversary Committee met March 13-15 in Elgin, Ill. Named at Annual Conference 2000, this committee is developing events, activities, and resources to help congregations, districts, and the denomination as a whole celebrate the 300th anniversary of the Church of the Brethren in 2008.
Engaging children and youth in the anniversary celebration was a key agenda item at the meeting. The committee met with Chris Douglas, General Board director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, who has agreed to work with the committee in planning for the training and equipping of Youth Heritage Travel Teams. These teams of two youth from each district will visit congregations during the anniversary year to interpret Brethren heritage and how it can shape the church today and into the future.
The committee also met with Wendy McFadden and Nancy Klemm from Brethren Press to receive updates on publishing projects related to the anniversary. "Meanest Man in Patrick County," a book by Frank Ramirez, was released at Annual Conference last summer. The second book in the anniversary series, "Another Way of Believing," by Dale Brown on Brethren theology, should be released at Annual Conference this summer. A sourcebook by Steve Longenecker on the Brethren between the world wars is being edited and indexed. In addition, Brethren Press is beginning work on a devotional book to be used during the anniversary year.
Updates on current and potential projects fleshed out the agenda: a kick-off celebration in Germantown, Pa., in Sept. 2007; a celebration in Schwarzenau, Germany, Aug. 3, 2008; a curriculum resource for the anniversary year; plans for Annual Conference 2008; a commemorative calendar; anniversary-related courses at the Brethren colleges; a tour guide for Brethren historical sites; submission of music, drama, and worship resources; and a study guide on the anniversary theme.
For more information on anniversary plans, including the submission of original musical compositions, drama resources, and worship resources, visit www.churchofthebrethrenanniversary.org. Committee members are Jeff Bach (chair), Don Durnbaugh, Dean Garrett, Rhonda Pittman Gingrich (recorder), Leslie Lake, Lorele Yager, and Lerry Fogle (ex-officio).
Source: 4/13/2005 Newsline
top
Study Committee on Doing Church Business meets, makes plans.
The Annual Conference Study Committee on Doing Church Business held its second meeting March 11-13, at Camp Mack near Milford, Ind. In three days of meetings, the committee spent time in prayer, song, and lengthy discussion, and prepared for the next 12 months' work, reported committee member Matt Guynn.
Results from an initial round of interviewing with conflict and process experts informed the weekend's work. Plans laid by the committee feature extensive information-gathering including interviews, a survey, and a web page. "We recognize that this query isn't just about process," said Guynn. "It addresses a broader and widely shared concern about the spiritual health of the Church of the Brethren."
Committee members also shared in Sunday school, discussion, and worship with Turkey Creek Church of the Brethren near Nappanee, Ind., which sent the query on doing church business, and shared a meal with Turkey Creek pastor Roger Eberly.
The committee will ask this year's Annual Conference for a one-year extension of its work. A listening session is scheduled for Saturday evening, July 2, at the Conference in Peoria, Ill.
Committee members are Joe Detrick of Logansville, Pa.; Matt Guynn of Richmond, Ind.; Dena Lee of Kent, Ohio; Dale Posthumus of University Park, Md.; and Dave Shetler of New Paris, Ohio. Contact the committee by e-mail at doingchurchbusiness@brethren.org. An updated webpage will be available soon on the Annual Conference website at www.brethren.org.
Source: 4/13/2005 Newsline
top
The Annual Conference Study Committee on Doing Church Business held its second meeting March 11-13, at Camp Mack near Milford, Ind. In three days of meetings, the committee spent time in prayer, song, and lengthy discussion, and prepared for the next 12 months' work, reported committee member Matt Guynn.
Results from an initial round of interviewing with conflict and process experts informed the weekend's work. Plans laid by the committee feature extensive information-gathering including interviews, a survey, and a web page. "We recognize that this query isn't just about process," said Guynn. "It addresses a broader and widely shared concern about the spiritual health of the Church of the Brethren."
Committee members also shared in Sunday school, discussion, and worship with Turkey Creek Church of the Brethren near Nappanee, Ind., which sent the query on doing church business, and shared a meal with Turkey Creek pastor Roger Eberly.
The committee will ask this year's Annual Conference for a one-year extension of its work. A listening session is scheduled for Saturday evening, July 2, at the Conference in Peoria, Ill.
Committee members are Joe Detrick of Logansville, Pa.; Matt Guynn of Richmond, Ind.; Dena Lee of Kent, Ohio; Dale Posthumus of University Park, Md.; and Dave Shetler of New Paris, Ohio. Contact the committee by e-mail at doingchurchbusiness@brethren.org. An updated webpage will be available soon on the Annual Conference website at www.brethren.org.
Source: 4/13/2005 Newsline
top
On Earth Peace forms Peace Retreat Leadership Team.
On Earth Peace has formed a volunteer Peace Retreat Leadership Team to help increase the number of retreats and workshops it is able to offer across the denomination, reported Kim Stuckey Hissong, On Earth Peace program coordinator of Peacemaker Formation. The new team will expand and energize the existing retreat program. Team members will be available to provide leadership for youth retreats, workshops, and worship experiences for congregations, districts, camps, denominational gatherings, and other groups.
Plans call for slowly expanding the number of team members, making sure that program staff can adequately support the network, according to Hissong. Retreats provided by the team will be based on an interactive, experiential model that challenges youth to consider Christian peacemaking in the context of faith and the world. Retreat sessions will draw on the Brethren heritage of peacemaking and bring scripture alive to examine how Christ calls believers to live in these times.
"If we are serious about being a resource to the entire denomination, we need to increase our identified leaders in the church," said Hissong. "There are so many great leaders in our denomination that are already doing peace education work. Formation of the Peace Retreat Leadership Team is an attempt to bring these folks together, recognize them for the work they are doing, and provide support and a place to develop and exchange ideas."
The team gathered for an initial planning meeting at the New Windsor (Md.) Conference Center in late February. Current team members are Carrie Eikler of Richmond, Ind.; Debbie Eisenbise of Kalamazoo, Mich.; Dena Lee of Kent, Ohio; and Rick Polhamus of Fletcher, Ohio. To schedule a retreat, or if you are interested in serving on the Peace Retreat Leadership Team, call Kim Stuckey Hissong at 410-635-8706 or e-mail kstuckey_oepa@brethren.org. See www.brethren.org/oepa/team.html for more information.
Source: 4/13/2005 Newsline
top
On Earth Peace has formed a volunteer Peace Retreat Leadership Team to help increase the number of retreats and workshops it is able to offer across the denomination, reported Kim Stuckey Hissong, On Earth Peace program coordinator of Peacemaker Formation. The new team will expand and energize the existing retreat program. Team members will be available to provide leadership for youth retreats, workshops, and worship experiences for congregations, districts, camps, denominational gatherings, and other groups.
Plans call for slowly expanding the number of team members, making sure that program staff can adequately support the network, according to Hissong. Retreats provided by the team will be based on an interactive, experiential model that challenges youth to consider Christian peacemaking in the context of faith and the world. Retreat sessions will draw on the Brethren heritage of peacemaking and bring scripture alive to examine how Christ calls believers to live in these times.
"If we are serious about being a resource to the entire denomination, we need to increase our identified leaders in the church," said Hissong. "There are so many great leaders in our denomination that are already doing peace education work. Formation of the Peace Retreat Leadership Team is an attempt to bring these folks together, recognize them for the work they are doing, and provide support and a place to develop and exchange ideas."
The team gathered for an initial planning meeting at the New Windsor (Md.) Conference Center in late February. Current team members are Carrie Eikler of Richmond, Ind.; Debbie Eisenbise of Kalamazoo, Mich.; Dena Lee of Kent, Ohio; and Rick Polhamus of Fletcher, Ohio. To schedule a retreat, or if you are interested in serving on the Peace Retreat Leadership Team, call Kim Stuckey Hissong at 410-635-8706 or e-mail kstuckey_oepa@brethren.org. See www.brethren.org/oepa/team.html for more information.
Source: 4/13/2005 Newsline
top
Brethren bits: Job opening, Annual Conference, and more.
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- Camp Eder seeks a fulltime executive director. The 400-acre facility is a year-round Church of the Brethren camp and retreat center near Gettysburg, Pa., in the southern Pennsylvania mountains. The qualified candidate will be a Christian with a growing faith, a heart for evangelism, understanding and acceptance of Brethren values, passion for outdoor ministry, ability to implement planning as directed by the camp board, capability and enthusiasm for interpreting the mission and vision of the camp, a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience, and strong fiscal, management, and communication skills. Previous administration and camping experience is preferred. Application deadline is June 1. Send a letter of interest and resume, and provide letters of professional reference from three or four people, to Kris Longwell, Search Committee, 319 E. Hanover St., Hanover, PA 17331; or e-mail e319hanover@juno.com.
- Short-term resident volunteer opportunities are available for people interested in serving as hosts and hostesses at the New Windsor (Md.) Conference Center. Duties include welcoming guests and other hospitality tasks. There is a special need for volunteers in May, but other dates are available as well. Meals and an apartment on the Brethren Service Center campus are provided. Contact Connie Bohn at 800-766-1553 for more information.
- The Annual Conference Office has issued a reminder to pre-register, for those planning to attend the Conference this summer in Peoria, Ill. Those not attending as church delegates can pre-register online or by mail. Doing so before May 20 saves $10 and eliminates the need to stand in long registration lines onsite. To register online, visit the Conference homepage at www.brethren.org. To register by mail, complete the registration form from the Annual Conference Information CD that has been mailed to each Church of the Brethren congregation, or from the Information Packet on the website. Mail registration forms to the Annual Conference Office, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120.
- The Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) annual Older Adult Orientation will be held April 17-29 at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. The unit will be made up of seven older adults including five members of the Church of the Brethren. The unit will spend two weeks exploring project possibilities and topics of community building, faith sharing, diversity training, and more. Two work days will be included, at the Brethren Service Center and at the Church of the Brethren Soup Kitchen in Washington, D.C. Field trips are planned to the Young Center at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College, the Ephrata Cloister, and Grace LeFever's organic farm. Guest staff and speakers include Larry and Alice Petry, Joyce Nolen, Rebekah Helsel, Al Herring, and David Eller. For more information call the BVS office, 800-323-8039 ext. 410.
- The situation in Darfur, Sudan, is the topic of a letter-writing campaign publicized by the General Board's Brethren Witness/Washington Office in its most recent newsletter. The office is urging Brethren to write to the United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan and members of the Security Council to help stop the violence in Darfur. The newsletter stated that "since spring 2003, over 300,000 persons of Darfur have died from violence, disease, and starvation. More than two million people have been forced from their homes and over 2,000 non-Arab villages have been destroyed. To date, three UN resolutions have done little to stop death and destruction in Darfur. A fourth resolution, being considered this week, should include strong language that pressures the government of Sudan and its proxy militia to halt the ongoing atrocities." For more information call the office at 800-785-3246 or e-mail washington_office_gb@brethren.org.
- Online registration has opened for the Heartland Song and Story Fest co-sponsored by On Earth Peace July 6-12 at Joyfield Farm in North Manchester, Ind. The annual family camp features Brethren musicians and storytellers. See www.brethren.org/oepa/SongandStoryFest2005.html or call On Earth Peace at 410-635-8704 or e-mail oepa_oepa@brethren.org.
- Elkhart City (Ind.) Church of the Brethren has changed its name to Creekside Church of the Brethren because land purchased for a new building is outside the city. A statement on the church website says, "We are a baptism community and water is an important factor in this imagery."
- Bells of the Valley, a group from Codorus Church of the Brethren in Loganville, Pa., will join other church musicians performing in a benefit for O.P.E.N., the HIV/AIDS ministry of the York County (Pa.) Council of Churches. The concert will be hosted by Otterbein United Methodist Church (301 W. Philadelphia St., York) at 4 p.m. Sunday, April 17. Admission is free, and a free-will offering will be taken.
- Benefit concerts for cystic fibrosis were presented in two Church of the Brethren congregations in Maryland in early April. Locust Grove Church of the Brethren in Mount Airy, Md., hosted its seventh annual "Sing for Breath" concert April 9, and Frederick (Md.) Church of the Brethren hosted its 23rd annual "Sing for Breath" concert April 10. Freewill donations went to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
- "Wonderful World of Wildflowers" is presented by the Southern Ohio District Outdoor Ministries from 2-5 p.m. on April 17 at Charleston Falls, south of Tipp City. Robert Henn, author of "Wild Flowers of Ohio," will lead the program including a walking tour. Children, adults, and older adults are invited. For more information call Bruce Rosenberger at 937-417-1184.
- Middle Pennsylvania District presents "Congregations Alive '05: To Empower, Nourish, and Renew Congregations," from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. April 16 at Martinsburg (Pa.) Memorial Church of the Brethren. The event is sponsored by the Congregational Development Team. Childcare will be provided. Call the district office at 814-643-0601.
- West Marva District's Pulpit Exchange Sunday is scheduled for April 17 on the Annual Conference theme, "Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus." The scripture text will be Hebrews 12:1-4.
- A fourth annual Sounds of the Mountains Music and Story Festival will be held at Camp Bethel near Fincastle, Va., April 22-23. Topping the list of performers are John McCutcheon, five-time Grammy-nominated recording artist and Appalachian performer, and Donald Davis, master storyteller. Also performing are Brethren folk singer and instrumentalist Joseph Helfrich; Baba Jamal Koram, a traditional African storyteller and percussionist; Marshall Brothers and Highroad, a bluegrass and gospel band; and Steel Praisin', a steel drum band from Friedberg Moravian Church. The festival is a fundraiser for the camp. Lodging, RV, and tent sites are available. See www.campbethelvirginia.org/sotm.htm or call 540-992-2940.
- Bridgewater (Va.) College is honoring six alumni and a retiring professor as part of its annual Alumni Weekend April 15-16. William R. Johnson and Elbridge "Ed" and Louis Bowman Callahan, all members of Bridgewater Church of the Brethren, will receive the 2005 Ripples Society Medals. The Ripples Society comprises alumni who graduated 50 or more years ago. The others receiving awards during the weekend are Donald G. Simmons, Julie C. Hensley, Cheryl Lackey Fairchilds, and Ralph C. MacPhail Jr., professor of Theater and Communication Studies, who is retiring after 33 years on the faculty. Alumni Weekend opens Friday morning with campus tours and alumni seminars. For information call 540-828-5451.
- On April 12 the University of La Verne in La Verne, Calif., launched its Campus Center Project with a celebration for alumni. The project will transform the school's "Super Tents"--described in a release as the "university's most recognizable campus feature"--into a Sports Science and Athletics Pavilion. The project also includes the building of the Plaza, an outdoor, three-tiered central gathering place of circular pads, and the Sara and Michael Abraham Campus Center.
- Elizabethtown (Pa.) College's Durnbaugh Lectures will feature Donald E. Miller on "The Challenge of Being a Peace Church in Africa" at 7:30 p.m. April 14. Miller will report on the Aug. 2004 People of Peace Conference in Nairobi, Kenya. The talk is part of the annual banquet of the Young Center for Anabaptist and Pietist Studies. Participants may attend the banquet, lecture, or both. Miller also will present a seminar, "Expanding the Circle of Peace: The World Council of Churches (WCC), the Historic Peace Churches, and Violence in Africa" at 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. April 15 at the Young Center. He is professor emeritus at Bethany Theological Seminary, former general secretary of the General Board, and has served on the WCC Central Committee. The lecture is free; tickets are $14 for the banquet, $10 for the seminar. Reservations are required--call 717-361-1470.
- Wallace A. Lusk, visitation pastor at Locust Grove Church of the Brethren in Mount Airy, Md., was among five inducted into the Mount Airy Hall of Fame March 22. The ceremony hosted by the Mount Airy Historical Society honored positive contributions to the community.
- Larry O'Neill, moderator of Atlantic Northeast District, has pledged to "go backwards, so COBYS can go forward." O'Neill has promised to walk the COBYS "Family Fun Walk" backwards--if he can gather $1,000 in sponsorships. COBYS is an agency affiliated with the district, serving children and families in several Pennsylvania counties. The walk takes place on May 1. E-mail O'Neill at SkippackChurch@comcast.net.
- In the past six months, ten Brethren and Mennonite congregations or groups have joined the Supportive Communities Network (SCN) of the Brethren Mennonite Council for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Interests (BMC), according to a news release from the council. The communities in the network indicate public welcome of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals and their families. The ten new communities bring the number in the network to 43, including 21 Church of the Brethren congregations and Brethren-related groups. The ten new members are Fellowship in Christ Church of the Brethren, Fremont, Calif.; San Diego (Calif.) Church of the Brethren; Springfield (Ill.) Church of the Brethren; Voices for an Open Spirit, a Church of the Brethren group; Womaen's Caucus, a Church of the Brethren group; The Group meeting at Palmyra (Pa.) Church of the Brethren; Christian Community, Inc., of Fort Wayne, Ind.; the Welcoming Dialogue Group of Lancaster County, Pa.; Mennonite House Church of St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada; and the Inclusion Team of Assembly Mennonite Church, Goshen, Ind. For more information call BMC at 612-343-2060 or e-mail bmc@bmclgbt.org.
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Assembly speakers will focus on 'Peace Beyond Our Fears.'
Speakers for the next Caring Ministries Assembly will focus on the theme, "Peace Beyond Our Fears." The assembly, sponsored by the Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC), will be held Aug. 11-13 at Bridgewater (Va.) Church of the Brethren.
"Fear has become a more prominent part of daily life," ABC said in a release about the event. "Brethren deacons, pastors, chaplains, and caregivers are invited to explore how people of faith respond to threats and fears that are ever present in this world.... Through worship, keynote presentations, workshops, and intentional times of silence, planners hope that participants will explore the character of fear and invite God to reshape it."
Keynote speakers Robert Wicks, Louise Baldwin Rieman, Carol Yoder, and Andrew Murray will take different approaches to explore transforming fear with faith. Wicks, professor of pastoral care at Loyola College in Maryland, works with clergy and first responders on prevention of secondary stress and the integration of spirituality and psychology. Rieman co-pastors Northview Church of the Brethren in Indianapolis with her husband, Phil, and has served as a missionary in Africa. Yoder directs STAR, a justice and peace-building program at Eastern Mennonite University, and has worked with relief workers in the Middle East and Africa as well as with victims of war and torture. Murray founded Juniata College's Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies and has served as a college chaplain and a pastor. Bible studies will be led by Stephen Reid, academic dean and professor of Old Testament at Bethany Theological Seminary.
The assembly will feature more than 25 workshops with special tracks for chaplains and deacons. A post-assembly EFSM/TRIM academy-level course will be offered (information will be included in the registration booklet or call Marilyn Lerch at 540-961-0354).
Registration is $100. Hotels are available for housing. Meals will be available for purchase at the Bridgewater Retirement Community, adjacent to the Bridgewater church. Registration materials will be mailed in May to each congregation's deacon contact, pastors, chaplains, and past assembly participants. Posters announcing theme and speakers have been sent to congregations in a Source mailing. Information will be posted at www.brethren.org/abc/ as it becomes available.
Source: 4/13/2005 Newsline
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Speakers for the next Caring Ministries Assembly will focus on the theme, "Peace Beyond Our Fears." The assembly, sponsored by the Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC), will be held Aug. 11-13 at Bridgewater (Va.) Church of the Brethren.
"Fear has become a more prominent part of daily life," ABC said in a release about the event. "Brethren deacons, pastors, chaplains, and caregivers are invited to explore how people of faith respond to threats and fears that are ever present in this world.... Through worship, keynote presentations, workshops, and intentional times of silence, planners hope that participants will explore the character of fear and invite God to reshape it."
Keynote speakers Robert Wicks, Louise Baldwin Rieman, Carol Yoder, and Andrew Murray will take different approaches to explore transforming fear with faith. Wicks, professor of pastoral care at Loyola College in Maryland, works with clergy and first responders on prevention of secondary stress and the integration of spirituality and psychology. Rieman co-pastors Northview Church of the Brethren in Indianapolis with her husband, Phil, and has served as a missionary in Africa. Yoder directs STAR, a justice and peace-building program at Eastern Mennonite University, and has worked with relief workers in the Middle East and Africa as well as with victims of war and torture. Murray founded Juniata College's Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies and has served as a college chaplain and a pastor. Bible studies will be led by Stephen Reid, academic dean and professor of Old Testament at Bethany Theological Seminary.
The assembly will feature more than 25 workshops with special tracks for chaplains and deacons. A post-assembly EFSM/TRIM academy-level course will be offered (information will be included in the registration booklet or call Marilyn Lerch at 540-961-0354).
Registration is $100. Hotels are available for housing. Meals will be available for purchase at the Bridgewater Retirement Community, adjacent to the Bridgewater church. Registration materials will be mailed in May to each congregation's deacon contact, pastors, chaplains, and past assembly participants. Posters announcing theme and speakers have been sent to congregations in a Source mailing. Information will be posted at www.brethren.org/abc/ as it becomes available.
Source: 4/13/2005 Newsline
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Office encourages youth to start conscientious objector files.
Resources related to conscientious objection are available from the General Board's Brethren Witness/Washington Office, including the maintenance of personal conscientious objector files. The office maintains individual files for youth and young adult men and women who choose to document their conscientious objection to war and violence.
The office has received over 40 conscientious objector files in recent months. Such files are the only means for conscientious objectors to register their beliefs against war, as the Selective Service System does not keep records of conscientious objectors and does not acknowledge statements of conscientious objection when young men register at age 18. In the event of a military draft, having such a file in place from an early age may help a young man or woman prove a long-standing faith basis for his or her convictions.
Forms and instructions for the files are included in a Church/Youth Conscientious Objector Packet available from the office. Over the past 18 months more than 2,500 of the packets have been distributed. Call 800-785-3246 or download the packet from the Conscientious Objection link at www.brethren.org (search words: Witness/Washington Office). Congregations and youth groups are encouraged to use the packet in youth group discussions and congregational forums.
Brethren may request office staff to lead congregational or district conscientious objection workshops. Office staff have presented workshops in seven districts and another district event is planned for Columbus, Ohio, in May. Other regional retreats are scheduled for the Spring, and workshops at district conferences are scheduled for the Fall. Office director Phil Jones also is a board member of the Center on Conscience and War (CCW--formerly NISBCO), and can assist in making available materials, resources, and staff leadership from that organization.
Other upcoming events on conscientious objection include the Christian Citizenship Seminar for Church of the Brethren youth, which will provide an opportunity for youth to make their voice heard in Washington, D.C,; and an insight session and the "Un-Luncheon" at this year's Annual Conference. The "Un-Luncheon" will feature CCW program director Bill Galvin.
The office also is organizing a pool of district support people and legal counselors to be available to conscientious objectors in the event of a draft. To participate in the program, call the office at 800-785-3246 or visit www.brethren.org (search words: Witness/Washington Office).
Source: 4/13/2005 Newsline
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Resources related to conscientious objection are available from the General Board's Brethren Witness/Washington Office, including the maintenance of personal conscientious objector files. The office maintains individual files for youth and young adult men and women who choose to document their conscientious objection to war and violence.
The office has received over 40 conscientious objector files in recent months. Such files are the only means for conscientious objectors to register their beliefs against war, as the Selective Service System does not keep records of conscientious objectors and does not acknowledge statements of conscientious objection when young men register at age 18. In the event of a military draft, having such a file in place from an early age may help a young man or woman prove a long-standing faith basis for his or her convictions.
Forms and instructions for the files are included in a Church/Youth Conscientious Objector Packet available from the office. Over the past 18 months more than 2,500 of the packets have been distributed. Call 800-785-3246 or download the packet from the Conscientious Objection link at www.brethren.org (search words: Witness/Washington Office). Congregations and youth groups are encouraged to use the packet in youth group discussions and congregational forums.
Brethren may request office staff to lead congregational or district conscientious objection workshops. Office staff have presented workshops in seven districts and another district event is planned for Columbus, Ohio, in May. Other regional retreats are scheduled for the Spring, and workshops at district conferences are scheduled for the Fall. Office director Phil Jones also is a board member of the Center on Conscience and War (CCW--formerly NISBCO), and can assist in making available materials, resources, and staff leadership from that organization.
Other upcoming events on conscientious objection include the Christian Citizenship Seminar for Church of the Brethren youth, which will provide an opportunity for youth to make their voice heard in Washington, D.C,; and an insight session and the "Un-Luncheon" at this year's Annual Conference. The "Un-Luncheon" will feature CCW program director Bill Galvin.
The office also is organizing a pool of district support people and legal counselors to be available to conscientious objectors in the event of a draft. To participate in the program, call the office at 800-785-3246 or visit www.brethren.org (search words: Witness/Washington Office).
Source: 4/13/2005 Newsline
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Credits
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board, on every other Wednesday with other editions as needed. Newsline stories may be reprinted provided that Newsline is cited as the source. Mary Dulabaum, Lerry Fogle, Rhonda Pittman Gingrich, Matt Guynn, Mary Kay Heatwole, Kim Stuckey Hissong, Phil Jones, Becky Ullom, and Carol Wise contributed to this report.
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board, on every other Wednesday with other editions as needed. Newsline stories may be reprinted provided that Newsline is cited as the source. Mary Dulabaum, Lerry Fogle, Rhonda Pittman Gingrich, Matt Guynn, Mary Kay Heatwole, Kim Stuckey Hissong, Phil Jones, Becky Ullom, and Carol Wise contributed to this report.
Tuesday, April 05, 2005
Church of the Brethren leaders mourn death of Pope John Paul II.
Church of the Brethren leaders have joined Christians and others worldwide in mourning the death of Pope John Paul II, and expressing condolence to the Roman Catholic community. "It is with sadness that the Church of the Brethren in the United States received the news of the death of His Holiness Pope John Paul II. We mourn the loss of this servant of Christ," said a letter signed by Annual Conference moderator Jim Hardenbrook and the general secretary of the General Board, Stan Noffsinger. "His light and life will be missed."
Quoting from 1 Peter 1:3, the letter expressed appreciation for the many ministries of Pope John Paul II and celebrated the contributions he made to the ecumenical movement. The Brethren leaders prayed that others will be inspired by his work for peace and justice.
The letter was sent to his Eminence Angelo Cardinal Sodano, Secretary of State for the Vatican; the Most Reverend William Skylstad, President of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops; and the Most Reverend Michael P. Driscoll of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Boise, as a colleague of the Annual Conference moderator.
Source: Newsline 4/5/2005
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Church of the Brethren leaders have joined Christians and others worldwide in mourning the death of Pope John Paul II, and expressing condolence to the Roman Catholic community. "It is with sadness that the Church of the Brethren in the United States received the news of the death of His Holiness Pope John Paul II. We mourn the loss of this servant of Christ," said a letter signed by Annual Conference moderator Jim Hardenbrook and the general secretary of the General Board, Stan Noffsinger. "His light and life will be missed."
Quoting from 1 Peter 1:3, the letter expressed appreciation for the many ministries of Pope John Paul II and celebrated the contributions he made to the ecumenical movement. The Brethren leaders prayed that others will be inspired by his work for peace and justice.
The letter was sent to his Eminence Angelo Cardinal Sodano, Secretary of State for the Vatican; the Most Reverend William Skylstad, President of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops; and the Most Reverend Michael P. Driscoll of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Boise, as a colleague of the Annual Conference moderator.
Source: Newsline 4/5/2005
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Association of Brethren Caregivers posts end-of-life resources.
The Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC) has posted several end-of-life resources from the Church of the Brethren on its website, prompted by the widespread media coverage of the deaths of Terri Schiavo and Pope John Paul II. The two deaths have spurred many in the church to think about end-of-life issues, ABC said in a statement. ABC provides publications and educational and faith opportunities that encourage the church to do caring ministries as the work of Jesus Christ.
"Within a week's time, the nation and members of the Church of the Brethren have witnessed two very different experiences of death with the passing of Terri Schiavo and Pope John Paul II," ABC said. Pope John Paul II's death came after a long life of service as leader of the Roman Catholic Church, and years of deteriorating health. Schiavo, a Florida woman who had been declared in a "vegetative state," died after her feeding tube was removed by court order, and after years of legal battles between her husband and parents regarding her condition and care.
"These two different experiences of death have caused many people to begin discussing the theological and practical aspects of their own end of life," ABC said. "Equally important, Schiavo and Pope John Paul II's deaths have spurred families and friends to begin talking with one another about their wishes and plans at their end of life."
End-of-life resources offered at www.brethren.org/abc/ include "Facing the Gray Areas in Dying," a four-page article by Guy Wampler; two articles about preparing for the end of life, from the ABC quarterly magazine "Caregiving"; an end-of-life preparations worksheet; a link to a hospice website providing help in creating advance directives in the different US states; worship resources and related scriptures; a resource list of books for adults and children; and a link to the 1996 Annual Conference End-of-Life Decision-Making Statement. ABC helped to form the statement, which affirms that "we do not live to ourselves, and we do not die to ourselves. If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord" (Romans 14:7-8).
Other end-of-life resources produced by ABC and sold through Brethren Press are five end-of-life study guides written by Grady Snyder, a retired Church of the Brethren seminary professor (to order call 800-441-3712). Articles about end-of-life issues also have appeared in the Winter 2000 issue of "Caregiving," which was devoted to the topic (order from Mary Dulabaum at 800-323-8039 ext. 304).
ABC affirms the Annual Conference statement that "spiritual growth can come from facing suffering and death honestly." The agency hopes that the resources it provides will help individuals consider their own end of life, and that of their loved ones, from a biblical and Brethren understanding.
For more information see www.brethren.org/abc/ or call ABC at 800-323-8039.
Source: Newsline 4/5/2005
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The Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC) has posted several end-of-life resources from the Church of the Brethren on its website, prompted by the widespread media coverage of the deaths of Terri Schiavo and Pope John Paul II. The two deaths have spurred many in the church to think about end-of-life issues, ABC said in a statement. ABC provides publications and educational and faith opportunities that encourage the church to do caring ministries as the work of Jesus Christ.
"Within a week's time, the nation and members of the Church of the Brethren have witnessed two very different experiences of death with the passing of Terri Schiavo and Pope John Paul II," ABC said. Pope John Paul II's death came after a long life of service as leader of the Roman Catholic Church, and years of deteriorating health. Schiavo, a Florida woman who had been declared in a "vegetative state," died after her feeding tube was removed by court order, and after years of legal battles between her husband and parents regarding her condition and care.
"These two different experiences of death have caused many people to begin discussing the theological and practical aspects of their own end of life," ABC said. "Equally important, Schiavo and Pope John Paul II's deaths have spurred families and friends to begin talking with one another about their wishes and plans at their end of life."
End-of-life resources offered at www.brethren.org/abc/ include "Facing the Gray Areas in Dying," a four-page article by Guy Wampler; two articles about preparing for the end of life, from the ABC quarterly magazine "Caregiving"; an end-of-life preparations worksheet; a link to a hospice website providing help in creating advance directives in the different US states; worship resources and related scriptures; a resource list of books for adults and children; and a link to the 1996 Annual Conference End-of-Life Decision-Making Statement. ABC helped to form the statement, which affirms that "we do not live to ourselves, and we do not die to ourselves. If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord" (Romans 14:7-8).
Other end-of-life resources produced by ABC and sold through Brethren Press are five end-of-life study guides written by Grady Snyder, a retired Church of the Brethren seminary professor (to order call 800-441-3712). Articles about end-of-life issues also have appeared in the Winter 2000 issue of "Caregiving," which was devoted to the topic (order from Mary Dulabaum at 800-323-8039 ext. 304).
ABC affirms the Annual Conference statement that "spiritual growth can come from facing suffering and death honestly." The agency hopes that the resources it provides will help individuals consider their own end of life, and that of their loved ones, from a biblical and Brethren understanding.
For more information see www.brethren.org/abc/ or call ABC at 800-323-8039.
Source: Newsline 4/5/2005
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Credits
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board, on the first, third, and fifth Friday of each month, with other editions as needed. Newsline stories may be reprinted provided that Newsline is cited as the source. Mary Dulabaum contributed to this report.
Newsline is produced by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board, on the first, third, and fifth Friday of each month, with other editions as needed. Newsline stories may be reprinted provided that Newsline is cited as the source. Mary Dulabaum contributed to this report.
Wednesday, March 30, 2005
NEWSNew resources created in effort to save Brethren Medical Plan.
Brethren congregations address issue of global hunger.
Council to develop plan for marketing Annual Conference.
ABC board focuses on wellness, plans 'Lighten Up, Brethren!'
Brethren bits: Personnel, Earth Sunday, and more.
PERSONNELYouth Peace Travel Team for 2005 is named.
UPCOMING EVENTSOn Earth Peace sponsors counter-recruitment conference call.
FEATURESPeters Creek youth participate in Souper Bowl of Caring.
To drill or not to drill--it's not just about the environment.
PERSONNEL
UPCOMING EVENTS
FEATURES
New resources created in effort to save Brethren Medical Plan.
Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT) is making new resources available as part of its effort to save the Brethren Medical Plan. The plan is for Church of the Brethren pastors and church employees, district employees, and employees of Annual Conference agencies, and affiliated agencies and institutions, and their families. A video addressing questions about the plan, a power point presentation on the history of the plan, information about Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), and information about all of the Brethren Insurance Plans, are being made available free of charge. BBT also has worked with the districts, agencies, and Ministers' Association to create an advisory panel for the plan, is training advocates to promote the plan in districts, and will begin providing HSAs in 2006.
The Brethren Medical Plan is in a "death spiral," a downward cyclical phenomenon caused by decreased membership and the erosion of a good spread of risk, increased health care costs, and increased premiums (see the Newsline of Dec. 3, 2004). With the agencies and in districts that have more than 75 percent participation among eligible pastors and staff, the premiums-to-claims ratio is such that the plan should be able to survive, BBT reported. In districts where there is less than 75 percent participation, the premiums-to-claims ratio is such that, left unchecked, the plan could go bankrupt in several years.
Revitalization of the Brethren Medical Plan will come through increased membership and a better spread of health risk. BBT has reinstated a requirement of 75 percent participation among eligible congregations in each district, for districts to continue in the plan. If a district does not have commitments from its congregations by Aug. 31, 2006, to meet that goal, all church employees in the district will be ineligible for the plan on Jan. 1, 2007. BBT states that the 75 percent requirement was part of the Brethren Medical Plan when it began in the 1950s, but "fell by the wayside" in the early 1980s. "The plan must regain an appropriate spread of risk in order to continue," BBT said.
The video helps answer many questions about the Brethren Medical Plan, according to BBT's "Insurance Update" newsletter. It explains the benefits of guaranteed group insurance coverage and the ramifications for pastors and church employees if a district does not meet the 75 percent goal. The video premiered Feb. 2 during a meeting of BBT staff and the Council of District Executives.
BBT has begun training advocates to work in each district to promote the plan with congregations and church leaders. The advocates will use the new video to help rebuild participation in the plan. A first group of seven advocates was trained on March 7-8. As of March 17, 12 of the denomination's 23 districts had named advocates. More advocate trainings will be held in late spring.
In addition, a Brethren Medical Plan Advisory Panel has been formed to create a high-deductible medical plan design using HSAs. The panel includes one person each from the Pastoral Compensation and Benefits Advisory Committee (an Annual Conference committee), the Council of District Executives, the Ministers' Association, the Annual Conference agencies, and BBT staff. The panel will hold its first meeting March 31. HSAs, which must be used in conjunction with a high-deductible health plan, are "a way to set aside money for medical, dental, and vision care expenses not paid by an insurance plan or a flexible spending account," BBT said in the newsletter. The Brethren Medical Plan will begin implementing HSAs on Jan. 1, 2006.
An April 18 follow-up meeting between BBT and the Council of District Executives will be held in Richmond, Ind. It was requested by the district executives, BBT said, and will include members of BBT's board and staff, executives of the Annual Conference agencies, representatives of Annual Conference, and members of the Pastoral Compensation and Benefits Advisory Committee. This summer the Brethren Medical Plan will be a major topic of discussion at Annual Conference in Peoria, Ill.
To order the video in DVD or VHS format, or to receive any other resource mentioned above, call 800-746-1505 ext. 374 or e-mail lpiatt_bbt@brethren.org.
Source: 03/30/2005 Newsline
Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT) is making new resources available as part of its effort to save the Brethren Medical Plan. The plan is for Church of the Brethren pastors and church employees, district employees, and employees of Annual Conference agencies, and affiliated agencies and institutions, and their families. A video addressing questions about the plan, a power point presentation on the history of the plan, information about Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), and information about all of the Brethren Insurance Plans, are being made available free of charge. BBT also has worked with the districts, agencies, and Ministers' Association to create an advisory panel for the plan, is training advocates to promote the plan in districts, and will begin providing HSAs in 2006.
The Brethren Medical Plan is in a "death spiral," a downward cyclical phenomenon caused by decreased membership and the erosion of a good spread of risk, increased health care costs, and increased premiums (see the Newsline of Dec. 3, 2004). With the agencies and in districts that have more than 75 percent participation among eligible pastors and staff, the premiums-to-claims ratio is such that the plan should be able to survive, BBT reported. In districts where there is less than 75 percent participation, the premiums-to-claims ratio is such that, left unchecked, the plan could go bankrupt in several years.
Revitalization of the Brethren Medical Plan will come through increased membership and a better spread of health risk. BBT has reinstated a requirement of 75 percent participation among eligible congregations in each district, for districts to continue in the plan. If a district does not have commitments from its congregations by Aug. 31, 2006, to meet that goal, all church employees in the district will be ineligible for the plan on Jan. 1, 2007. BBT states that the 75 percent requirement was part of the Brethren Medical Plan when it began in the 1950s, but "fell by the wayside" in the early 1980s. "The plan must regain an appropriate spread of risk in order to continue," BBT said.
The video helps answer many questions about the Brethren Medical Plan, according to BBT's "Insurance Update" newsletter. It explains the benefits of guaranteed group insurance coverage and the ramifications for pastors and church employees if a district does not meet the 75 percent goal. The video premiered Feb. 2 during a meeting of BBT staff and the Council of District Executives.
BBT has begun training advocates to work in each district to promote the plan with congregations and church leaders. The advocates will use the new video to help rebuild participation in the plan. A first group of seven advocates was trained on March 7-8. As of March 17, 12 of the denomination's 23 districts had named advocates. More advocate trainings will be held in late spring.
In addition, a Brethren Medical Plan Advisory Panel has been formed to create a high-deductible medical plan design using HSAs. The panel includes one person each from the Pastoral Compensation and Benefits Advisory Committee (an Annual Conference committee), the Council of District Executives, the Ministers' Association, the Annual Conference agencies, and BBT staff. The panel will hold its first meeting March 31. HSAs, which must be used in conjunction with a high-deductible health plan, are "a way to set aside money for medical, dental, and vision care expenses not paid by an insurance plan or a flexible spending account," BBT said in the newsletter. The Brethren Medical Plan will begin implementing HSAs on Jan. 1, 2006.
An April 18 follow-up meeting between BBT and the Council of District Executives will be held in Richmond, Ind. It was requested by the district executives, BBT said, and will include members of BBT's board and staff, executives of the Annual Conference agencies, representatives of Annual Conference, and members of the Pastoral Compensation and Benefits Advisory Committee. This summer the Brethren Medical Plan will be a major topic of discussion at Annual Conference in Peoria, Ill.
To order the video in DVD or VHS format, or to receive any other resource mentioned above, call 800-746-1505 ext. 374 or e-mail lpiatt_bbt@brethren.org.
Source: 03/30/2005 Newsline
Brethren congregations address issue of global hunger.
Growing projects are taking off in several Brethren congregations, reports Howard Royer, manager of the General Board's Global Food Crisis Fund. For most of the congregations, 2005 marks the first year of engagement in a growing project, made possible by the Foods Resource Bank. Through the Global Food Crisis Fund, in 2004 the Church of the Brethren became the 16th member of the Foods Resource Bank.
A growing project is initiated by a congregation starting with donated or rented acreage, using donated seed and materials. The congregation plants and tills the crop--usually corn, soybeans, or wheat. The harvest is sold and the income designated to the Foods Resource Bank for development of food production overseas. Rural and urban churches may team up as partners. A dollar invested in the spring generally "grows" into $2.50 by fall, Royer said. Through a one-to-one matching grant from the Foods Resource Bank, funded by a $1 million grant from the US Agency for International Development, the initial investment expands to $5.
At South Waterloo (Iowa) Church of the Brethren, Joan Fumetti of the Foods Resource Bank made a presentation in Sunday school March 6 and asked members of Ivester Church of the Brethren in Grundy Center, Iowa, and the Conrad community to help out. South Waterloo has 12 acres lined up for a growing project. The Ivester church will join the Conrad growing project again this year, where a crop of 147 acres is to be planted at four sites, one of which is owned by Ivester's Keith and Dorothy Sheller. Ivester's Lois Kruse is chairing the Conrad planning committee. A field blessing is set for April 17.
At Decatur, Ind., the Pleasant Dale congregation heard from several of its farmers who plan to cultivate a 20-25 acre growing project this season. Pastor Jay Carter indicated the group already has been pledged enough seed corn and chemicals to care for the acreage.
Several other congregations also will be involved in growing projects in 2005. In Illinois, Mount Morris Church of the Brethren and Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren will "twin" on a growing project of eight acres. The Polo congregation has invited Tinley Park United Presbyterian Church to be its partner in cultivating 10-20 acres as part of Polo's centennial observance. In Lanark, Cherry Grove Church of the Brethren member Penny Lauritzen is inviting each landowner of farms she manages to donate one or more acres for a growing project. An Episcopal church in Dixon has been invited to twin with the 15-20 acre project, which has the endorsement of Agriwomen of Illinois.
The McPherson and Monitor congregations in Kansas may join together in a growing project in 2005 or 2006. Brad White of the Rockingham Church of the Brethren in Hardin, Mo., is launching a 25-acre project, and nearby Bethany church may be invited in as a partner. The Eel River church in Indiana is exploring a growing project for 2006.
In a signal act of generosity, the "Brethren account" at the Foods Resource Bank from which the Church of the Brethren may designate specific foods security support, was bolstered by $10,483 given by Norm and Carol Braksick of Portage, Mich. The gift represents the 2004 income from the Braksick family farm, a growing project in Napoleon, Mo. Norm Braksick retired early this year after four years as volunteer executive of Foods Resource Bank.
At Annual Conference in Peoria, Ill., the Foods Resource Bank will have an exhibit and an insight session July 5 will focus on growing projects with Lois Kruse, Joan Fumetti, and Jay Carter as presenters.
Only two Brethren congregations have indicated they will apply for growing projects start-up grants from the Global Food Crisis Fund: Mount Morris and Pleasant Dale. Ten such grants are available. For more information call Howard Royer at 800-323-8039 or e-mail hroyer_gb@brethren.org.
Source: 03/30/2005 Newsline
Growing projects are taking off in several Brethren congregations, reports Howard Royer, manager of the General Board's Global Food Crisis Fund. For most of the congregations, 2005 marks the first year of engagement in a growing project, made possible by the Foods Resource Bank. Through the Global Food Crisis Fund, in 2004 the Church of the Brethren became the 16th member of the Foods Resource Bank.
A growing project is initiated by a congregation starting with donated or rented acreage, using donated seed and materials. The congregation plants and tills the crop--usually corn, soybeans, or wheat. The harvest is sold and the income designated to the Foods Resource Bank for development of food production overseas. Rural and urban churches may team up as partners. A dollar invested in the spring generally "grows" into $2.50 by fall, Royer said. Through a one-to-one matching grant from the Foods Resource Bank, funded by a $1 million grant from the US Agency for International Development, the initial investment expands to $5.
At South Waterloo (Iowa) Church of the Brethren, Joan Fumetti of the Foods Resource Bank made a presentation in Sunday school March 6 and asked members of Ivester Church of the Brethren in Grundy Center, Iowa, and the Conrad community to help out. South Waterloo has 12 acres lined up for a growing project. The Ivester church will join the Conrad growing project again this year, where a crop of 147 acres is to be planted at four sites, one of which is owned by Ivester's Keith and Dorothy Sheller. Ivester's Lois Kruse is chairing the Conrad planning committee. A field blessing is set for April 17.
At Decatur, Ind., the Pleasant Dale congregation heard from several of its farmers who plan to cultivate a 20-25 acre growing project this season. Pastor Jay Carter indicated the group already has been pledged enough seed corn and chemicals to care for the acreage.
Several other congregations also will be involved in growing projects in 2005. In Illinois, Mount Morris Church of the Brethren and Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren will "twin" on a growing project of eight acres. The Polo congregation has invited Tinley Park United Presbyterian Church to be its partner in cultivating 10-20 acres as part of Polo's centennial observance. In Lanark, Cherry Grove Church of the Brethren member Penny Lauritzen is inviting each landowner of farms she manages to donate one or more acres for a growing project. An Episcopal church in Dixon has been invited to twin with the 15-20 acre project, which has the endorsement of Agriwomen of Illinois.
The McPherson and Monitor congregations in Kansas may join together in a growing project in 2005 or 2006. Brad White of the Rockingham Church of the Brethren in Hardin, Mo., is launching a 25-acre project, and nearby Bethany church may be invited in as a partner. The Eel River church in Indiana is exploring a growing project for 2006.
In a signal act of generosity, the "Brethren account" at the Foods Resource Bank from which the Church of the Brethren may designate specific foods security support, was bolstered by $10,483 given by Norm and Carol Braksick of Portage, Mich. The gift represents the 2004 income from the Braksick family farm, a growing project in Napoleon, Mo. Norm Braksick retired early this year after four years as volunteer executive of Foods Resource Bank.
At Annual Conference in Peoria, Ill., the Foods Resource Bank will have an exhibit and an insight session July 5 will focus on growing projects with Lois Kruse, Joan Fumetti, and Jay Carter as presenters.
Only two Brethren congregations have indicated they will apply for growing projects start-up grants from the Global Food Crisis Fund: Mount Morris and Pleasant Dale. Ten such grants are available. For more information call Howard Royer at 800-323-8039 or e-mail hroyer_gb@brethren.org.
Source: 03/30/2005 Newsline
Council to develop plan for marketing Annual Conference.
The Annual Conference Council, meeting March 9 in Elgin, Ill., approved the naming of a ministry team to develop a plan for marketing future Annual Conferences, reported secretary Fred Swartz. The council also plans to present a final draft of a strategic plan for Annual Conference, including goals for the next five years, to the 2005 Standing Committee.
The need for a marketing plan arises out of the council's desire to promote a wider knowledge of Annual Conference among the denomination's membership and to insure a growing base of support. A "marketing ministry team" will be appointed by the council following approval of a job description for the team. It is expected that the team will include seasoned and new Annual Conference participants, as well as people who can relate to congregational issues.
In other business the council took action aimed at clarifying the role of a denominational "spokesperson" and unified representation for the denomination. The council agreed to draft a document asking the 2005-07 Review and Evaluation Committee, which will be appointed at this year's Annual Conference, to revisit the issue in light of the multiple-agency structure that has followed the redesign of the General Board. Previously, the general secretary of the General Board was the designated spokesperson for all matters concerning denominational participation or response, Swartz said. "The Review and Evaluation Committee report of 2001 seems to confirm this position at one point, but then also refers to other agency heads as authorized to speak `even in ecumenical circles' on matters relating to programs managed by that agency," he reported. "Further, in its recommendation on `Who Speaks for the Church' the committee refers to denominational polity that names the Annual Conference moderator as 'the official representative of the church.'" The council will ask the 2005-07 Review and Evaluation Committee to be more specific in its consideration of the issue.
The council continued to pursue answers to questions concerning ministry presented in the 2003 "Query of Clarification of Confusion." The General Board's Ministry Office provided the council with a reference guide to existing statements on ministry. The council voted to seek a more comprehensive understanding of ministry to satisfy the deep issues raised by the query. The council hopes to secure a wider discussion of the issue with district executives, the director of the Ministry Office, and others.
Source: 03/30/2005 Newsline
The Annual Conference Council, meeting March 9 in Elgin, Ill., approved the naming of a ministry team to develop a plan for marketing future Annual Conferences, reported secretary Fred Swartz. The council also plans to present a final draft of a strategic plan for Annual Conference, including goals for the next five years, to the 2005 Standing Committee.
The need for a marketing plan arises out of the council's desire to promote a wider knowledge of Annual Conference among the denomination's membership and to insure a growing base of support. A "marketing ministry team" will be appointed by the council following approval of a job description for the team. It is expected that the team will include seasoned and new Annual Conference participants, as well as people who can relate to congregational issues.
In other business the council took action aimed at clarifying the role of a denominational "spokesperson" and unified representation for the denomination. The council agreed to draft a document asking the 2005-07 Review and Evaluation Committee, which will be appointed at this year's Annual Conference, to revisit the issue in light of the multiple-agency structure that has followed the redesign of the General Board. Previously, the general secretary of the General Board was the designated spokesperson for all matters concerning denominational participation or response, Swartz said. "The Review and Evaluation Committee report of 2001 seems to confirm this position at one point, but then also refers to other agency heads as authorized to speak `even in ecumenical circles' on matters relating to programs managed by that agency," he reported. "Further, in its recommendation on `Who Speaks for the Church' the committee refers to denominational polity that names the Annual Conference moderator as 'the official representative of the church.'" The council will ask the 2005-07 Review and Evaluation Committee to be more specific in its consideration of the issue.
The council continued to pursue answers to questions concerning ministry presented in the 2003 "Query of Clarification of Confusion." The General Board's Ministry Office provided the council with a reference guide to existing statements on ministry. The council voted to seek a more comprehensive understanding of ministry to satisfy the deep issues raised by the query. The council hopes to secure a wider discussion of the issue with district executives, the director of the Ministry Office, and others.
Source: 03/30/2005 Newsline
ABC board focuses on wellness, plans 'Lighten Up, Brethren!'
The Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC) board learned of a newly revamped Wellness Ministry during meetings March 18-19 in Elgin, Ill. ABC provides publications, education, and faith opportunities that encourage the church to do caring ministries as the work of Jesus Christ.
The Wellness Ministry's seven-person committee met a day prior to the board to develop a new mission statement and activities for the coming year. The ministry hopes to challenge Brethren to adopt healthy living behaviors by focusing on "metabolic syndrome"--obesity, hypertension, glucose intolerance, and high cholesterol. These medical conditions, while affected by genetics, can be reduced by lifestyle changes. To raise awareness about the consequences of the syndrome, ABC will provide information under a campaign titled "Lighten Up, Brethren!"
Other goals for the ministry include engaging the church in the current public debate about health care delivery, access, finance reform, and stewardship of healthcare resources. The ministry also will promote simple living, "which is healthy and spiritually centered living," said Kathy Reid, ABC 's executive director and staff liaison for the ministry. The ministry's mission "is an enduring sign of our belief that every person is a treasure, every life a sacred gift, every human being a unity of body, mind, and spirit," she added.
Vernne Greiner, ABC board and Wellness Ministry member, committed to losing ten pounds before the board's next meeting in September, and challenged the board to embrace the campaign by doing the same. Seven other board members accepted the challenge.
In other business, the ABC board approved a new structure for peace church work in health and senior care, as an outgrowth of collaboration between ABC, Friends Services for the Aging, and Mennonite Health Services Alliance. The new structure will allow joint projects to be housed under Peace Church Management, a nonprofit corporation already created by the three groups.
The board heard reports on the Annual Forum, a conference for executives and staff of Brethren retirement centers April 21-23 in North Manchester, Ind.; and Caring Ministries Assembly, a conference for deacons, pastors, chaplains, and caregivers Aug. 11-13 in Bridgewater, Va. The board also participated in a development program on Pietism in the Church of the Brethren.
Source: 03/30/2005 Newsline
The Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC) board learned of a newly revamped Wellness Ministry during meetings March 18-19 in Elgin, Ill. ABC provides publications, education, and faith opportunities that encourage the church to do caring ministries as the work of Jesus Christ.
The Wellness Ministry's seven-person committee met a day prior to the board to develop a new mission statement and activities for the coming year. The ministry hopes to challenge Brethren to adopt healthy living behaviors by focusing on "metabolic syndrome"--obesity, hypertension, glucose intolerance, and high cholesterol. These medical conditions, while affected by genetics, can be reduced by lifestyle changes. To raise awareness about the consequences of the syndrome, ABC will provide information under a campaign titled "Lighten Up, Brethren!"
Other goals for the ministry include engaging the church in the current public debate about health care delivery, access, finance reform, and stewardship of healthcare resources. The ministry also will promote simple living, "which is healthy and spiritually centered living," said Kathy Reid, ABC 's executive director and staff liaison for the ministry. The ministry's mission "is an enduring sign of our belief that every person is a treasure, every life a sacred gift, every human being a unity of body, mind, and spirit," she added.
Vernne Greiner, ABC board and Wellness Ministry member, committed to losing ten pounds before the board's next meeting in September, and challenged the board to embrace the campaign by doing the same. Seven other board members accepted the challenge.
In other business, the ABC board approved a new structure for peace church work in health and senior care, as an outgrowth of collaboration between ABC, Friends Services for the Aging, and Mennonite Health Services Alliance. The new structure will allow joint projects to be housed under Peace Church Management, a nonprofit corporation already created by the three groups.
The board heard reports on the Annual Forum, a conference for executives and staff of Brethren retirement centers April 21-23 in North Manchester, Ind.; and Caring Ministries Assembly, a conference for deacons, pastors, chaplains, and caregivers Aug. 11-13 in Bridgewater, Va. The board also participated in a development program on Pietism in the Church of the Brethren.
Source: 03/30/2005 Newsline
Brethren bits: Personnel, Earth Sunday, and more.
- Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind., has appointed Glenn R. Sharfman as vice president and dean for academic affairs effective July 1. He succeeds Jo Young Switzer who became president of the college on Dec. 1, 2004. Sharfman has served as chair of the History Department and as associate dean and director of graduate studies at Hiram College.
- Shanita Hamlin began as customer resource specialist for Brethren Press in Elgin, Ill., on March 21. She has ten years of customer service background including three years with a religious organization. She is a part-time business administration student at the College of Dupage.
- The General Board's Brethren Witness/Washington Office is highlighting Earth Sunday April 24 as "an excellent opportunity for congregations to reflect on their relationship with God's creation." Worship resources and a bulletin insert on the National Council of Churches' emphasis for the day, "S.acred O.ceans & S.eas," including action suggestions for protecting the oceans, are available from the office. Call 800-785-3246 or e-mail washington_office_gb@brethren.org.
- Good Shepherd Church of the Brethren in Blacksburg, Va., is holding a Mortgage Burning Celebration at 3 p.m. Sunday, April 10. The church also seeks letters with memories and stories of the church's ministry for a scrapbook. Call 540-951-2588 or e-mail hagedors@vt.edu.
- Northern Plains District has joined other Christians asking for prayer for Red Lake, Minn., following a school shooting March 21. "Let us pray for the Red Lake community. May Christ be present as we continue in this Holy Week," wrote district executive Connie Burkholder in an e-mail to the district. She also communicated the response of the Minnesota Council of Churches, of which the district is a member. The council expressed condolences to the Red Lake Band of Chippewa and urged people to pray, offer support, and cherish children. Council staff also attended a Pipe Ceremony at the state capitol, contacted the All Nations Church to offer assistance, and contacted the Jewish Community Relations Council to express concern about the Nazi website component of the tragedy.
- "Building Health Congregations: Equipping Conflict Transformation Teams," a Ministry of Reconciliation workshop for pastors and church leaders, will be held April 5-8 at the New Windsor (Md.) Conference Center. The workshop led by Barbara Date will prepare participants to understand and work with personal style differences, assist those in conflict, and plan strategies for intervention. It is co-sponsored by the Ministry of Reconciliation program of On Earth Peace and the districts of Atlantic Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Middle Pennsylvania, Southern Pennsylvania, Western Pennsylvania, Shenandoah, Virlina, and West Marva.
- Dan Southerland, founder of Church Transitions, Inc., will lead a workshop on "Leading Your Church Through Change... and Living to Tell About It" sponsored by the Church Life and Growth Team of Western Pennsylvania District on April 1-2 in Johnstown, Pa. Cost is $90. Participants may receive continuing education units. Call 814-479-7058 or e-mail gram8x@verizon.net.
- A January-term class at the University of La Verne, Calif., took on a service learning project for Habitat for Humanity. In three weeks, the class organized a dinner, auction, dance, and raffle to benefit a blitz-build of six houses in six days. Proceeds totaled more than $6,000. "The real winners of the event were the students who had a sense of camaraderie and the ability to make a difference for those in need," reported Julia Wheeler, university relations staff.
- A 10th annual Wenger Foundation Praise Dinner on April 21 at the Lebanon (Pa.) Expo Center will benefit COBYS Family Services among other nonprofit groups. COBYS is affiliated with Atlantic Northeast District and serves children and families in several Pennsylvania counties. The Wenger Foundation, Inc., was established in 1996 as a response to a tragic death of a family member, and has since awarded more than $750,000 to a variety of nonprofits. Many in the Wenger family are members of Myerstown (Pa.) Church of the Brethren, reported Donald R. Fitzkee, development and interpretation coordinator for COBYS. The Booth Brothers Trio and the Old Time Gospel Hour Quartet, both winners of the Southern Gospel Music Association's New Artist of the Year Award, will provide the entertainment at the dinner. Cost is $100 per person or $1,000 for a table of ten.
- Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT) announces delegations to the US/Mexico borderlands May 26-June 7, June 25-July 2, and July 30-Aug. 6. "US border control policies deliberately channel migrants into the most dangerous and inhospitable areas of the desert, resulting in more than 200 migrant deaths in the Arizona borderlands over each of the past two years," CPT reported. "A dramatic increase in the number of Border Patrol agents has militarized the area and residents of US border towns have reported violations of their civil rights." The first delegation will include a six-day, 75-mile walk from Sasabe, Sonora, Mexico, to Tucson, Ariz. Cost of $350 includes on-ground transportation, food, simple accommodations, and fees. See www.cpt.org (click on "Delegations"), call 773-277-0253, or e-mail delegations@cpt.org. CPT is an initiative of the historic peace churches (Mennonites, Church of the Brethren, and Quakers) with support and membership from a range of Catholic and Protestant denominations.
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