2007 Youth Peace Travel Team
Applicants are sought for the 2007 Youth Peace Travel Team, which is jointly sponsored by On Earth Peace, the Outdoor Ministries Association, Brethren Volunteer Service, the Brethren Witness/Washington Office, and the Youth and Young Adult Ministries of the Church of the Brethren General Board. It is "not just another summer job" according to a personal testimony from 2006 team member Margaret Bortner of Palmyra (Pa.) Church of the Brethren, included in an announcement from On Earth Peace: "Fifteen states, seven church camps, Annual Conference, National Youth Conference, hundreds of new friends, lots of free ice cream, an afternoon in Hollywood: this was my summer job. Youth Peace Travel Team presented opportunities that I otherwise may not have had." The four-member team spends the summer together visiting Church of the Brethren camps to promote peace. "If you care passionately for peace and justice and are interested in leaving your comfort zone next summer, please consider applying.... It will stretch you spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically--and you will love it," said Bortner. Applications are due Feb. 4, 2007. For more information visit www.brethren.org/genbd/witness/YPTT.htm or contact Phil Jones at the Brethren Witness/Washington Office, 202-546-3202, pjones_gb@brethren.org; or Susanna Farahat at On Earth Peace, 410-635-8706, sfarahat_oepa@brethren.org.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Workcamp DVD
A promotional DVD for the 2007 workcamps offered by the Church of the Brethren General Board is now available. The DVD includes general information about workcamps and the expansion of the workcamp program, as well as 2007 calendar information. The DVD is a useful tool for sharing the workcamp philosophy, as it features interviews with the coordinators and past workcamp participants. Registration for 2007 workcamps begins Jan. 3, 2007, online at www.brethren.org. To request a DVD, write to cobworkcamps_gb@brethren.org or call Amy Rhodes at 800-323-8039 ext. 281.
A promotional DVD for the 2007 workcamps offered by the Church of the Brethren General Board is now available. The DVD includes general information about workcamps and the expansion of the workcamp program, as well as 2007 calendar information. The DVD is a useful tool for sharing the workcamp philosophy, as it features interviews with the coordinators and past workcamp participants. Registration for 2007 workcamps begins Jan. 3, 2007, online at www.brethren.org. To request a DVD, write to cobworkcamps_gb@brethren.org or call Amy Rhodes at 800-323-8039 ext. 281.
Registration begins for Christian Citizenship Seminar.
Online registration is beginning for the 2007 Christian Citizenship Seminar for youth on the theme, "The State of Our Health." The Brethren Witness/Washington Office and the Youth and Young Adult Ministry Office of the Church of the Brethren General Board jointly sponsor the annual seminar in Washington, D.C., and New York City. The event will take place March 24-29, 2007.
Participants will explore and be challenged by the many health concerns and conditions of the global population, including the HIV/AIDS explosion in Africa and how HIV/AIDS affects people in US communities, the overwhelming poverty of many Latin America countries, and the effects of prenatal care, poverty, and hunger on the world's population. The group will consider the advantages, challenges, and privileges of health care programs, and engage in advocacy for the hungry, disabled, uninsured, and voiceless people of the world. The week will include speakers, presentations, interactive worship, workshops, and on-site visits and direct advocacy with members of Congress.
High school youth and adult advisors are eligible to attend. Registration is limited to the first 100 youth and adults who apply; registration will be cut off by Feb. 28 or as soon as 100 registrations have been received. Cost is $350, which includes lodging for five nights, dinner on the opening evening, and transportation from New York to Washington.
To register go to www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/CCS.htm. For more information or for a brochure contact the Youth and Young Adult Ministry office at 800-323-8039 or e-mail COBYouth_gb@brethren.org.
Source: 12/20/2006 Newsline
Online registration is beginning for the 2007 Christian Citizenship Seminar for youth on the theme, "The State of Our Health." The Brethren Witness/Washington Office and the Youth and Young Adult Ministry Office of the Church of the Brethren General Board jointly sponsor the annual seminar in Washington, D.C., and New York City. The event will take place March 24-29, 2007.
Participants will explore and be challenged by the many health concerns and conditions of the global population, including the HIV/AIDS explosion in Africa and how HIV/AIDS affects people in US communities, the overwhelming poverty of many Latin America countries, and the effects of prenatal care, poverty, and hunger on the world's population. The group will consider the advantages, challenges, and privileges of health care programs, and engage in advocacy for the hungry, disabled, uninsured, and voiceless people of the world. The week will include speakers, presentations, interactive worship, workshops, and on-site visits and direct advocacy with members of Congress.
High school youth and adult advisors are eligible to attend. Registration is limited to the first 100 youth and adults who apply; registration will be cut off by Feb. 28 or as soon as 100 registrations have been received. Cost is $350, which includes lodging for five nights, dinner on the opening evening, and transportation from New York to Washington.
To register go to www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/CCS.htm. For more information or for a brochure contact the Youth and Young Adult Ministry office at 800-323-8039 or e-mail COBYouth_gb@brethren.org.
Source: 12/20/2006 Newsline
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
YOUTH PRACTICE ‘PACKING THE PEACE OF CHRIST’ IN PHILADELPHIA
On Nov. 17-18, more than 100 youth gathered for an event, “Packing the Peace of Christ,” organized by Anabaptist pastors and youth leaders to “sound the call to Jesus’ disciples to work for peace in Philadelphia.”
Anabaptist pastors and youth leaders organized the workshop in response to the city’s increase in gun violence, with a grant from Mennonite Central Committee, Philadelphia. As of this workshop, 359 homicides have occurred, mostly committed with hand guns. The workshop posed the question, “In this context how can we bear witness to Christ, the Prince of Peace?”
Participating denominations included Church of the Brethren, Mennonite, and Brethren in Christ. About half of the 28 urban Anabaptist congregations and ministries in the greater Philadelphia region took active part in planning and participating in the workshop, including Germantown Church of the Brethren and its pastor, Richard Kyerematen. The workshop was held at Philadelphia Mennonite High School.
A Friday evening coffee shop began with uplifting worship music by the (Indonesian) Philadelphia Praise Center. Then Christian rap artist Cruz Cordero and Yvonne Platts of Philadelphia Ministry Partnership emceed a youth competition for creative alternatives to violence through the arts--essays, visual arts, and rap or spoken word. Conrad Moore, a Philly son and Damascus Road Anti-Racism trainer, led a participative teaching activity called “Forum Theater” to practice peacemaking skills.
Saturday was like boot camp for peace soldiers of Christ. Participants chose two of five peacemaking workshops: “Akido,” self-defense without doing harm; “The Big Bang,” the two sides of the heated debate on hand gun laws in Pennsylvania led by Sarah Thompson of Mennonite Central Committee, D.C., and Pennsylvania State Representative John Myers; “Conflict Resolution in a Christian Perspective,” led by Barbara Moses, principal of the high school, who helped participants identify their personal “anger triggers”; “The Hip-Hop Generation--What’s beef” (i.e., “What’s the conflict”), led by Cruz Cordero, who analyzed secular rap messages about dealing with conflict; “Violence: an American Problem,” led by Conrad Moore who analyzed the violent history of the United States and concluded, “Violence is not a problem limited to urban youth--it is a national problem.”
Arbutus Sider prepared a letter for participants to sign, addressed to rural and suburban Anabaptist congregations in Southeast Pennsylvania asking for support in pressing for more effective hand gun legislation.
For the grand finale, four local Christian rap artists treated participants to a showcase of their amazing gift of language to call people to walk in the light of Christ.
So ended “Packing the Peace of Christ,” sounding the call to Jesus’ disciples to work for peace in Philadelphia. The call has been sounded. Pray that the call may bear fruit in the lives of those who heard it.
--This article was contributed by Kingdom Builders Anabaptist Network of Greater Philadelphia, and written by Shannon Burgess, a senior at Philadelphia’s Central High School and a member of Second Mennonite Church.
On Nov. 17-18, more than 100 youth gathered for an event, “Packing the Peace of Christ,” organized by Anabaptist pastors and youth leaders to “sound the call to Jesus’ disciples to work for peace in Philadelphia.”
Anabaptist pastors and youth leaders organized the workshop in response to the city’s increase in gun violence, with a grant from Mennonite Central Committee, Philadelphia. As of this workshop, 359 homicides have occurred, mostly committed with hand guns. The workshop posed the question, “In this context how can we bear witness to Christ, the Prince of Peace?”
Participating denominations included Church of the Brethren, Mennonite, and Brethren in Christ. About half of the 28 urban Anabaptist congregations and ministries in the greater Philadelphia region took active part in planning and participating in the workshop, including Germantown Church of the Brethren and its pastor, Richard Kyerematen. The workshop was held at Philadelphia Mennonite High School.
A Friday evening coffee shop began with uplifting worship music by the (Indonesian) Philadelphia Praise Center. Then Christian rap artist Cruz Cordero and Yvonne Platts of Philadelphia Ministry Partnership emceed a youth competition for creative alternatives to violence through the arts--essays, visual arts, and rap or spoken word. Conrad Moore, a Philly son and Damascus Road Anti-Racism trainer, led a participative teaching activity called “Forum Theater” to practice peacemaking skills.
Saturday was like boot camp for peace soldiers of Christ. Participants chose two of five peacemaking workshops: “Akido,” self-defense without doing harm; “The Big Bang,” the two sides of the heated debate on hand gun laws in Pennsylvania led by Sarah Thompson of Mennonite Central Committee, D.C., and Pennsylvania State Representative John Myers; “Conflict Resolution in a Christian Perspective,” led by Barbara Moses, principal of the high school, who helped participants identify their personal “anger triggers”; “The Hip-Hop Generation--What’s beef” (i.e., “What’s the conflict”), led by Cruz Cordero, who analyzed secular rap messages about dealing with conflict; “Violence: an American Problem,” led by Conrad Moore who analyzed the violent history of the United States and concluded, “Violence is not a problem limited to urban youth--it is a national problem.”
Arbutus Sider prepared a letter for participants to sign, addressed to rural and suburban Anabaptist congregations in Southeast Pennsylvania asking for support in pressing for more effective hand gun legislation.
For the grand finale, four local Christian rap artists treated participants to a showcase of their amazing gift of language to call people to walk in the light of Christ.
So ended “Packing the Peace of Christ,” sounding the call to Jesus’ disciples to work for peace in Philadelphia. The call has been sounded. Pray that the call may bear fruit in the lives of those who heard it.
--This article was contributed by Kingdom Builders Anabaptist Network of Greater Philadelphia, and written by Shannon Burgess, a senior at Philadelphia’s Central High School and a member of Second Mennonite Church.
Monday, November 20, 2006
“Small Things, Great Love” is Theme for 2007 Workcamps
Mother Teresa’s words, “We can do no great things; only small things with great love,” echoed at National Youth Conference and have been chosen to provide the inspiration for next summer’s Church of the Brethren workcamps.
Workcamps offer week-long service opportunities across the US and Central America for junior high youth, senior high youth, and young adults. Held in the months of June, July, and August, the workcamp program of the Church of the Brethren General Board provides experiences that unite service, spiritual growth, and Brethren heritage.
The theme for 2007 draws on the scripture passage, “For God is the one who gives seed to the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will give you many opportunities to do good, and he will produce a great harvest of generosity in you” (2 Corinthians 9:10). Workcamps will be offered in 35 new and revisited locations such as new sites in Kansas City, Kan., Camp Wilbur Stover in New Meadows, Idaho, and Reynosa, Mexico, and past favorites such as St. Croix, Virgin Islands, Los Angeles, and Phoenix. Six junior high workcamps, 20 senior high workcamps, one combined junior and senior high workcamp, three intergenerational workcamps, two young adult workcamps, and two combined senior high and adult workcamps will be offered.
The program hopes to draw on the excitement generated at National Youth Conference said Amy Rhodes, an assistant workcamp coordinator and Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) worker. “I think of it as an opportunity for the youth to find out what ‘Come and see’ (the NYC theme) is all about,” she said. At NYC the youth of the denomination “were told, ‘We are the people we’ve been waiting for,’” she said, “and workcamps are opportunities to prove that.”
“Workcamps bring youth together to give a week of service, to go outside of their own hometown and into another community to follow Jesus’ teaching of ‘go and serve,’” said Travis Beam, also an assistant workcamp coordinator through BVS.
The workcamp program organized by the board’s Youth and Young Adult Ministries began in 1988. The number of participants has grown from 46 in 1988 to 622 in 2005. Recognizing this growing interest, the General Board has responded with plans for expansion. Primary changes in the workcamp program are the addition of positions in the office including a fulltime staff member working as coordinator and additional BVS positions. Steve Van Houten is serving as coordinator, and Beam, Rhodes, and Rachel McFadden are assistant coordinators for the year. The new positions support the growth of the program and the greater number of workcamps that are being offered.
The General Board also has outlined several ways of broadening the workcamp program in the coming years, such as offering workcamps during spring break and January term for young adults, in conjunction with the Brethren colleges; providing workcamp opportunities for adults in Sunday school classes and other groups, especially during non-summer seasons; and creating intergenerational workcamps and family workcamps.
Van Houten emphasized that workcampers must anticipate learning as much as they commit to serving. “We learn as much from the people at these places as we share with them,” he said. “We’re joining together and walking alongside the people in the communities.”
Online registration begins Jan. 3, 2007, go to www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/workcamps/index.html. For a brochure listing sites and dates of workcamps or for more information contact Amy Rhodes, Rachel McFadden, Travis Beam, or Steve Van Houten at 800-323-8039 or cobworkcamps_gb@brethren.org.
Mother Teresa’s words, “We can do no great things; only small things with great love,” echoed at National Youth Conference and have been chosen to provide the inspiration for next summer’s Church of the Brethren workcamps.
Workcamps offer week-long service opportunities across the US and Central America for junior high youth, senior high youth, and young adults. Held in the months of June, July, and August, the workcamp program of the Church of the Brethren General Board provides experiences that unite service, spiritual growth, and Brethren heritage.
The theme for 2007 draws on the scripture passage, “For God is the one who gives seed to the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will give you many opportunities to do good, and he will produce a great harvest of generosity in you” (2 Corinthians 9:10). Workcamps will be offered in 35 new and revisited locations such as new sites in Kansas City, Kan., Camp Wilbur Stover in New Meadows, Idaho, and Reynosa, Mexico, and past favorites such as St. Croix, Virgin Islands, Los Angeles, and Phoenix. Six junior high workcamps, 20 senior high workcamps, one combined junior and senior high workcamp, three intergenerational workcamps, two young adult workcamps, and two combined senior high and adult workcamps will be offered.
The program hopes to draw on the excitement generated at National Youth Conference said Amy Rhodes, an assistant workcamp coordinator and Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) worker. “I think of it as an opportunity for the youth to find out what ‘Come and see’ (the NYC theme) is all about,” she said. At NYC the youth of the denomination “were told, ‘We are the people we’ve been waiting for,’” she said, “and workcamps are opportunities to prove that.”
“Workcamps bring youth together to give a week of service, to go outside of their own hometown and into another community to follow Jesus’ teaching of ‘go and serve,’” said Travis Beam, also an assistant workcamp coordinator through BVS.
The workcamp program organized by the board’s Youth and Young Adult Ministries began in 1988. The number of participants has grown from 46 in 1988 to 622 in 2005. Recognizing this growing interest, the General Board has responded with plans for expansion. Primary changes in the workcamp program are the addition of positions in the office including a fulltime staff member working as coordinator and additional BVS positions. Steve Van Houten is serving as coordinator, and Beam, Rhodes, and Rachel McFadden are assistant coordinators for the year. The new positions support the growth of the program and the greater number of workcamps that are being offered.
The General Board also has outlined several ways of broadening the workcamp program in the coming years, such as offering workcamps during spring break and January term for young adults, in conjunction with the Brethren colleges; providing workcamp opportunities for adults in Sunday school classes and other groups, especially during non-summer seasons; and creating intergenerational workcamps and family workcamps.
Van Houten emphasized that workcampers must anticipate learning as much as they commit to serving. “We learn as much from the people at these places as we share with them,” he said. “We’re joining together and walking alongside the people in the communities.”
Online registration begins Jan. 3, 2007, go to www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/workcamps/index.html. For a brochure listing sites and dates of workcamps or for more information contact Amy Rhodes, Rachel McFadden, Travis Beam, or Steve Van Houten at 800-323-8039 or cobworkcamps_gb@brethren.org.
Monday, November 06, 2006
NATIONAL YOUNG ADULT CONFERENCE PLANNED FOR 2008
"NYAC is coming!!! NYAC is coming!!!" said an announcement of the Church of the Brethren's next National Young Adult Conference, planned for Aug. 11-15, 2008. Young adults from Church of the Brethren congregations across the country will meet at the Estes Park YMCA camp in Colorado, just outside of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Smaller young adult gatherings will continue to be held annually. The 2007 gathering is planned for May 25-27.
The 2008 event is the second larger "national" conference for young adults, sponsored by the Youth and Young Adult Ministries of the General Board. The first was held at Snow Mountain Ranch YMCA in Colorado in 2004, and featured worship, workshops, fellowship, singing, and meeting new people. The 255 young adults who attended called for another such conference, said the announcement from Youth and Young Adult Ministries director Chris Douglas.
"Plan now to gather with other young adults for this exciting event!" Douglas said. "We hope that over 500 young adults will come and help shape this important opportunity in our denomination."
A Brethren Volunteer Service position of coordinating NYAC will be available in June of 2007. This fulltime volunteer will work for a year in the Youth and Young Adult Ministry Office in Elgin, Ill. To express interest in the position of NYAC coordinator, request an application from Chris Douglas at cdouglas_gb@brethren.org.
"NYAC is coming!!! NYAC is coming!!!" said an announcement of the Church of the Brethren's next National Young Adult Conference, planned for Aug. 11-15, 2008. Young adults from Church of the Brethren congregations across the country will meet at the Estes Park YMCA camp in Colorado, just outside of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Smaller young adult gatherings will continue to be held annually. The 2007 gathering is planned for May 25-27.
The 2008 event is the second larger "national" conference for young adults, sponsored by the Youth and Young Adult Ministries of the General Board. The first was held at Snow Mountain Ranch YMCA in Colorado in 2004, and featured worship, workshops, fellowship, singing, and meeting new people. The 255 young adults who attended called for another such conference, said the announcement from Youth and Young Adult Ministries director Chris Douglas.
"Plan now to gather with other young adults for this exciting event!" Douglas said. "We hope that over 500 young adults will come and help shape this important opportunity in our denomination."
A Brethren Volunteer Service position of coordinating NYAC will be available in June of 2007. This fulltime volunteer will work for a year in the Youth and Young Adult Ministry Office in Elgin, Ill. To express interest in the position of NYAC coordinator, request an application from Chris Douglas at cdouglas_gb@brethren.org.
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Colorado Brethren and Mennonite youth join for retreat.
Church of the Brethren and Mennonite youth in the Denver and Colorado Springs area of Colorado participated in "River of Life," a weekend of service on Aug. 18-20. Students including youth from Prince of Peace Church of the Brethren arrived at First Mennonite Church to examine how the Anabaptist faith tradition teaches them to be in service to others. Some students gave up their last free weekend of summer, while others rushed from school to attend.
Twenty-six participants were divided between four service projects. The projects included painting a Community Outreach Center at Garden Park Mennonite Brethren Church; pulling weeds and picking up trash at Yarrow Gardens, a Mennonite owned low-income housing project; scrubbing a club at a Denver Boy's and Girl's Club; and office work, yard work, transforming pallets into firewood, and serving lunch to the homeless at Franciscan Friends of the Poor.
On Sunday, the youth reported some life lessons they had learned from the weekend during the worship service at First Mennonite, and led the church in singing. They not only filled the platform with their physical presence, but with their faith sharing as well.
"I didn't know what a homeless person would be like, but now I know they are really cool human beings," reported one youth. "Kids with few options for where to go after school can join a Boy's and Girl's Club for only $2 per year," reported another youth. Another youth observed the struggle for help a single mom was having with her teenagers on moving day, the same day as the River of Life service projects. When the River of Life youth pitched in to help, the other kids also started helping more.
Maybe the life lesson from River of Life was best summed by the song title "Take Me In" sung during the closing concert by the band BlackKnyt (whose members are middle school students with connections to Glennon Heights Mennonite Church). Even when life pushes us to be on the outside, the River of Life weekend models a different way of living that encourages youth to "take people in" and share some simple deeds inspired by Jesus' love.
Mennonite Urban Ministries (MUM) and Discovering Opportunities for Outreach and Reflection (DOOR) sponsored the event.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
Church of the Brethren and Mennonite youth in the Denver and Colorado Springs area of Colorado participated in "River of Life," a weekend of service on Aug. 18-20. Students including youth from Prince of Peace Church of the Brethren arrived at First Mennonite Church to examine how the Anabaptist faith tradition teaches them to be in service to others. Some students gave up their last free weekend of summer, while others rushed from school to attend.
Twenty-six participants were divided between four service projects. The projects included painting a Community Outreach Center at Garden Park Mennonite Brethren Church; pulling weeds and picking up trash at Yarrow Gardens, a Mennonite owned low-income housing project; scrubbing a club at a Denver Boy's and Girl's Club; and office work, yard work, transforming pallets into firewood, and serving lunch to the homeless at Franciscan Friends of the Poor.
On Sunday, the youth reported some life lessons they had learned from the weekend during the worship service at First Mennonite, and led the church in singing. They not only filled the platform with their physical presence, but with their faith sharing as well.
"I didn't know what a homeless person would be like, but now I know they are really cool human beings," reported one youth. "Kids with few options for where to go after school can join a Boy's and Girl's Club for only $2 per year," reported another youth. Another youth observed the struggle for help a single mom was having with her teenagers on moving day, the same day as the River of Life service projects. When the River of Life youth pitched in to help, the other kids also started helping more.
Maybe the life lesson from River of Life was best summed by the song title "Take Me In" sung during the closing concert by the band BlackKnyt (whose members are middle school students with connections to Glennon Heights Mennonite Church). Even when life pushes us to be on the outside, the River of Life weekend models a different way of living that encourages youth to "take people in" and share some simple deeds inspired by Jesus' love.
Mennonite Urban Ministries (MUM) and Discovering Opportunities for Outreach and Reflection (DOOR) sponsored the event.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
Junior High Youth Sunday
November 5 is Junior High Youth Sunday in the Church of the Brethren. The theme is "Transformed" based on the story of Jacob and Esau from Genesis 25-27. Resources available at www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/YouthSundayJ.htm include an introduction, a Bible study by Robert Neff, worship ideas from the new Sunday school curriculum "Gather 'Round," and an outline for a junior high retreat.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
November 5 is Junior High Youth Sunday in the Church of the Brethren. The theme is "Transformed" based on the story of Jacob and Esau from Genesis 25-27. Resources available at www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/YouthSundayJ.htm include an introduction, a Bible study by Robert Neff, worship ideas from the new Sunday school curriculum "Gather 'Round," and an outline for a junior high retreat.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
BVS PowerPoint Slideshow
The Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) slide show presented at National Youth Conference this summer is now available for download at www.brethren.org/genbd/bvs/Slideshow.html. The show is in PowerPoint format, and for copyright reasons does not including the music used with it at NYC, "What are you waiting for?" by Natalie Grant-Awaken. The slide show is suitable for use by congregations and others interested in BVS.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
The Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) slide show presented at National Youth Conference this summer is now available for download at www.brethren.org/genbd/bvs/Slideshow.html. The show is in PowerPoint format, and for copyright reasons does not including the music used with it at NYC, "What are you waiting for?" by Natalie Grant-Awaken. The slide show is suitable for use by congregations and others interested in BVS.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
COBYS Family Services Bike and Hike
The COBYS Family Services Bike and Hike on Sept. 10 at Lititz (Pa.) Church of the Brethren included a 55-mile motorcycle ride, 25-mile and 10-mile bicycle rides, and a 3-mile walk. The event raised pledges and donations exceeding the $60,000 goal. Some 520 people participated including 316 motorcyclists, 75 bicyclists, and 131 walkers. Two church youth groups raised $1,250 or more, from Little Swatara Church of the Brethren in Bethel, and Chiques Church of the Brethren in Manheim. Proceeds benefited COBYS Family Services, a Church of the Brethren-related agency offering adoption and foster care services, counseling, family life education, and a teen mother and child group home.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
The COBYS Family Services Bike and Hike on Sept. 10 at Lititz (Pa.) Church of the Brethren included a 55-mile motorcycle ride, 25-mile and 10-mile bicycle rides, and a 3-mile walk. The event raised pledges and donations exceeding the $60,000 goal. Some 520 people participated including 316 motorcyclists, 75 bicyclists, and 131 walkers. Two church youth groups raised $1,250 or more, from Little Swatara Church of the Brethren in Bethel, and Chiques Church of the Brethren in Manheim. Proceeds benefited COBYS Family Services, a Church of the Brethren-related agency offering adoption and foster care services, counseling, family life education, and a teen mother and child group home.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
First-ever National Junior High Conference planned for next June.
A first-ever National Junior High Conference is being planned for sixth, seventh, and eighth graders in the Church of the Brethren. The event will be held the weekend of June 15-17, 2007, at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College.
On the theme, "The Amazing Race: Continuing the Work of Jesus" (Luke 9:2-3), the event is designed to give a taste of a mini-National Youth Conference experience. It will include high-energy worship, active learning workshops, music, games, fun, and fellowship. Featured presenters are the Mennonite comedy duo Ted and Lee, musician Ken Medema, and speaker Tony Campolo.
The conference is sponsored by the Youth and Young Adult Ministries of the Church of the Brethren General Board. Cost will be $99 per person, registration begins online on February 1. After April 15, the cost will go up to $125. Churches are required to send adult advisors with their youth. For more information contact Chris Douglas at 800-323-8039 ext. 297.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
A first-ever National Junior High Conference is being planned for sixth, seventh, and eighth graders in the Church of the Brethren. The event will be held the weekend of June 15-17, 2007, at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College.
On the theme, "The Amazing Race: Continuing the Work of Jesus" (Luke 9:2-3), the event is designed to give a taste of a mini-National Youth Conference experience. It will include high-energy worship, active learning workshops, music, games, fun, and fellowship. Featured presenters are the Mennonite comedy duo Ted and Lee, musician Ken Medema, and speaker Tony Campolo.
The conference is sponsored by the Youth and Young Adult Ministries of the Church of the Brethren General Board. Cost will be $99 per person, registration begins online on February 1. After April 15, the cost will go up to $125. Churches are required to send adult advisors with their youth. For more information contact Chris Douglas at 800-323-8039 ext. 297.
Source: 10/25/2006 Newsline
Friday, October 13, 2006
COUNTER RECRUITMENT CONFERENCE
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS
November 3-5, 2006
Purpose: The conference will bring together youth and adults to discuss ways to counter the actions of military recruiters. The focus will be on highly recruited areas such as communities of color and settings of poverty.
Goals:
http://www.mcc.org/us/co/counter/conference/
Brethren at the conference will be greeted by Phil Jones of the Brethren Witness/Washington Office and Matt Guynn of On Earth Peace.
Counter-recruitment can be about much more than being against recruiters or resisting No Child Left Behind. Counter-recruitment can be at the intersection of gospel peace and gospel evangelism. It can be about inviting entire communities into God's dream of shalom that began with Eden and continues to this day. It can be about youth being mentored and accompanied into meaningful futures, of congregations catching a vision of economic development and making easy the paths that lead to life, of seeking anew and proclaiming God's leadings toward wholeness and dignity for all.
- from scheduled workshop leader Matt Guynn, OEP
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS
November 3-5, 2006
Purpose: The conference will bring together youth and adults to discuss ways to counter the actions of military recruiters. The focus will be on highly recruited areas such as communities of color and settings of poverty.
Goals:
- provide accurate information on the realities behind military advertising and recruitment
- Equip congregations with meaningful nonmilitary opportunities for education, job training, and employment for youth
- Discuss strategy for counter-recruitment in public schools and other public settings
- Provide opportunities for networking and sharing of resources.
http://www.mcc.org/us/co/counter/conference/
Brethren at the conference will be greeted by Phil Jones of the Brethren Witness/Washington Office and Matt Guynn of On Earth Peace.
Counter-recruitment can be about much more than being against recruiters or resisting No Child Left Behind. Counter-recruitment can be at the intersection of gospel peace and gospel evangelism. It can be about inviting entire communities into God's dream of shalom that began with Eden and continues to this day. It can be about youth being mentored and accompanied into meaningful futures, of congregations catching a vision of economic development and making easy the paths that lead to life, of seeking anew and proclaiming God's leadings toward wholeness and dignity for all.
- from scheduled workshop leader Matt Guynn, OEP
2007 Christian Citizenship Seminar
The 2007 Christian Citizenship Seminar on the theme, "The State of Our Health," will be held March 24-29, 2007, in New York City and Washington, D.C.
The State of Our Health…
an exploration of faith and response in
regards to the health and well being of our
global community
You will be invited to explore and be challenged by the many health concerns and conditions of our global population. Speakers, presentations, interactive worship and workshops, on-sight visitations and direct advocacy opportunities will all be a part of the CCS 2007 experience. Find out how international governments contribute to the HIV/AIDS explosion in Africa or the overwhelming poverty of many Latin America countries. Learn how HIV/AIDS affects local villages in Sudan and in US communities. Explore the impact of prenatal care, poverty, and hunger on the world’s population. Consider the advantages, challenges, and privileges of health care programs. Advocate for the hungry, the disabled, the uninsured and the voiceless brothers and sisters in our world.
PLAN NOW TO ATTEND
March 24-29, 2007
CCS is held the first three days in New York City and the final three days in Washington, DC - Transportation provided between the two cities.
On-line registration begins January 1, 2007
Reserved for the first 100 who register
Open to all high school age youth
A ministry of the Youth and Young Adult and Brethren Witness/Washington Office of the Church of the Brethren General Board Contact the BW/WO for program information 1-800-785-3246 or the YYA office for registration and logistics 1-800-323-8039.
The 2007 Christian Citizenship Seminar on the theme, "The State of Our Health," will be held March 24-29, 2007, in New York City and Washington, D.C.
The State of Our Health…
an exploration of faith and response in
regards to the health and well being of our
global community
You will be invited to explore and be challenged by the many health concerns and conditions of our global population. Speakers, presentations, interactive worship and workshops, on-sight visitations and direct advocacy opportunities will all be a part of the CCS 2007 experience. Find out how international governments contribute to the HIV/AIDS explosion in Africa or the overwhelming poverty of many Latin America countries. Learn how HIV/AIDS affects local villages in Sudan and in US communities. Explore the impact of prenatal care, poverty, and hunger on the world’s population. Consider the advantages, challenges, and privileges of health care programs. Advocate for the hungry, the disabled, the uninsured and the voiceless brothers and sisters in our world.
PLAN NOW TO ATTEND
March 24-29, 2007
CCS is held the first three days in New York City and the final three days in Washington, DC - Transportation provided between the two cities.
On-line registration begins January 1, 2007
Reserved for the first 100 who register
Open to all high school age youth
A ministry of the Youth and Young Adult and Brethren Witness/Washington Office of the Church of the Brethren General Board Contact the BW/WO for program information 1-800-785-3246 or the YYA office for registration and logistics 1-800-323-8039.
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Leaders for the 2007 Annual Conference are announced.
The Program and Arrangements Commitee for the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference has completed its recruiting of leadership for the Conference in Cleveland, Ohio, June 30-July 4, 2007. Preachers, worship leaders, music coordinator, choir director, organist, pianist, and children's choir director have been announced.
Preachers are Jeff Carter, pastor of Manassas (Va.) Church of the Brethren who preached at National Youth Conference this summer, will preach on Saturday evening June 30; Belita Mitchell, Annual Conference moderator and pastor of First Church of the Brethren in Harrisburg, Pa., on Sunday morning July 1; Duane Grady, a member of the Church of the Brethren General Board's Congregational Life Team, on Monday evening July 2; Tim Harvey, pastor of Central Church of the Brethren in Roanoke, Va., on Tuesday evening July 3; and Ataloa Woodin, pastor of Community Brethren Church, a Church of the Brethren congregation in Fresno, Calif., on Wednesday morning July 4.
Worship leaders are Chrissy Sollenberger of Annville, Pa., who was a youth speaker at National Youth Conference this summer; James Beckwith, Annual Conference moderator-elect and pastor of Annville (Pa.) Church of the Brethren; Brandon Grady, a Bethany Seminary student from Richmond, Ind.; Bev and Eric Anspaugh, pastor of Florin Church of the Brethren in Mount Joy, Pa.; and Erin Matteson, co-pastor of Modesto (Calif.) Church of the Brethren.
Coordinating worship will be Program and Arrangements Committee member Joanna Willoughby of Wyoming, Mich. Joseph Helfrich, a Church of the Brethren musician from Bradford, Ohio, will coordinate the music. Rebecca Rhodes of Roanoke, Va., will serve as choir director; and Raymonde Rougier of Dayton, Ohio, will direct the children's choir. This year's organist is Chris Brewer of Bradford, Ohio, and on the piano/keyboard will be Bob Iseminger of Roanoke, Va.
For more about the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference go to www.brethren.org/ac.
Source: 10/11/2006 Newsline
The Program and Arrangements Commitee for the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference has completed its recruiting of leadership for the Conference in Cleveland, Ohio, June 30-July 4, 2007. Preachers, worship leaders, music coordinator, choir director, organist, pianist, and children's choir director have been announced.
Preachers are Jeff Carter, pastor of Manassas (Va.) Church of the Brethren who preached at National Youth Conference this summer, will preach on Saturday evening June 30; Belita Mitchell, Annual Conference moderator and pastor of First Church of the Brethren in Harrisburg, Pa., on Sunday morning July 1; Duane Grady, a member of the Church of the Brethren General Board's Congregational Life Team, on Monday evening July 2; Tim Harvey, pastor of Central Church of the Brethren in Roanoke, Va., on Tuesday evening July 3; and Ataloa Woodin, pastor of Community Brethren Church, a Church of the Brethren congregation in Fresno, Calif., on Wednesday morning July 4.
Worship leaders are Chrissy Sollenberger of Annville, Pa., who was a youth speaker at National Youth Conference this summer; James Beckwith, Annual Conference moderator-elect and pastor of Annville (Pa.) Church of the Brethren; Brandon Grady, a Bethany Seminary student from Richmond, Ind.; Bev and Eric Anspaugh, pastor of Florin Church of the Brethren in Mount Joy, Pa.; and Erin Matteson, co-pastor of Modesto (Calif.) Church of the Brethren.
Coordinating worship will be Program and Arrangements Committee member Joanna Willoughby of Wyoming, Mich. Joseph Helfrich, a Church of the Brethren musician from Bradford, Ohio, will coordinate the music. Rebecca Rhodes of Roanoke, Va., will serve as choir director; and Raymonde Rougier of Dayton, Ohio, will direct the children's choir. This year's organist is Chris Brewer of Bradford, Ohio, and on the piano/keyboard will be Bob Iseminger of Roanoke, Va.
For more about the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference go to www.brethren.org/ac.
Source: 10/11/2006 Newsline
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Youth Peace Travel Team
This is an invitation to encourage young adults (ages 18-22) to apply for the 2007 Youth Peace Travel Team (YPTT).
The YPTT (a joint project of the General Board, Outdoor Ministries and On Earth Peace) travels to Brethren camps and to Annual Conference. They lead workshops, games, songs, worship, and Bible study which encourage campers to think about Christian living in the context of peace and social justice. We are looking for dynamic leaders, ages 18-22, who are interested in a summer of outdoor ministry.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Susanna Farahat.
Susanna Farahat
coordinator for peace education
On Earth Peace
500 Main St.
P.O. Box 188
New Windsor, MD 21776
410.635.8706
This is an invitation to encourage young adults (ages 18-22) to apply for the 2007 Youth Peace Travel Team (YPTT).
The YPTT (a joint project of the General Board, Outdoor Ministries and On Earth Peace) travels to Brethren camps and to Annual Conference. They lead workshops, games, songs, worship, and Bible study which encourage campers to think about Christian living in the context of peace and social justice. We are looking for dynamic leaders, ages 18-22, who are interested in a summer of outdoor ministry.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Susanna Farahat.
Susanna Farahat
coordinator for peace education
On Earth Peace
500 Main St.
P.O. Box 188
New Windsor, MD 21776
410.635.8706
Friday, September 29, 2006
Coming and Seeing at NYC
The National Youth Conference (NYC) trip to Colorado began early on July 21, in the Church parking lots at Naperville and Peoria. The two buses converged at Dixon, picking up the rest of the Illinois/Wisconsin District group, and the journey was on.
107 senior high youth and advisors registered for the district bus trip (including nine Pennsylvanians that rode with us). Other district members traveled by other means to serve on staff at NYC. Sixteen congregations were represented.
On the way buses stopped in Omaha, Neb. The evening included a vespers service in a large ditch next to our motel. An early start the next morning took us across the long stretch of Nebraska. We stopped for lunch in Ogalalla before cruising on to Fort Collins for the main event at Colorado State University.
What an event it was! Twice-daily high-octane worship services, workshops, small groups, service projects, hiking, concerts, and much more filled the schedule. A group from the district entered an ultimate Frisbee team in the NYC tournament. "Ultimate Illinois" reached the championship game before losing in overtime.
Speaker after speaker challenged the 3,600-plus NYC participants to follow Jesus' invitation to "Come and See," the theme for the week. Many placed an emphasis on connecting our faith in Christ to serving the needs of the world by relieving hunger, working for justice, and volunteering our time. Almost $90,000 was raised through a run/walk and other events at NYC. More money has been coming in since then.
The buses on the trip home stopped at McPherson College in Kansas and made a construction detour in Iowa before arriving back in Illinois, returning home after an incredible week.
By now congregations are feeling the repercussions of the uplifting and inspiring week the group experienced at NYC. The prayer now is that our youth with continue to encounter the Jesus they "came and saw" at NYC in the people, the worship, and the activities of our district. ---Walt Wiltschek
Source: October 2006 IL/WI District Newsletter
The National Youth Conference (NYC) trip to Colorado began early on July 21, in the Church parking lots at Naperville and Peoria. The two buses converged at Dixon, picking up the rest of the Illinois/Wisconsin District group, and the journey was on.107 senior high youth and advisors registered for the district bus trip (including nine Pennsylvanians that rode with us). Other district members traveled by other means to serve on staff at NYC. Sixteen congregations were represented.
On the way buses stopped in Omaha, Neb. The evening included a vespers service in a large ditch next to our motel. An early start the next morning took us across the long stretch of Nebraska. We stopped for lunch in Ogalalla before cruising on to Fort Collins for the main event at Colorado State University.
What an event it was! Twice-daily high-octane worship services, workshops, small groups, service projects, hiking, concerts, and much more filled the schedule. A group from the district entered an ultimate Frisbee team in the NYC tournament. "Ultimate Illinois" reached the championship game before losing in overtime.
Speaker after speaker challenged the 3,600-plus NYC participants to follow Jesus' invitation to "Come and See," the theme for the week. Many placed an emphasis on connecting our faith in Christ to serving the needs of the world by relieving hunger, working for justice, and volunteering our time. Almost $90,000 was raised through a run/walk and other events at NYC. More money has been coming in since then.The buses on the trip home stopped at McPherson College in Kansas and made a construction detour in Iowa before arriving back in Illinois, returning home after an incredible week.By now congregations are feeling the repercussions of the uplifting and inspiring week the group experienced at NYC. The prayer now is that our youth with continue to encounter the Jesus they "came and saw" at NYC in the people, the worship, and the activities of our district. ---Walt Wiltschek
Source: October 2006 IL/WI District Newsletter
A Red Headed Paster and NYC
Eight youth and three adults boarded an early morning bus for Fort. Collins, Colorado. Their destination: National Youth Conference. They were excited, and a little sleepy anticipating what lay ahead the next few days.
NYC exceeded their expectations and they were inspired to be a moving force in the Peoria Congregation when they got back. On the bus on the way home, Pastor Dana McNeil challenged the youth to bring their individual testimonies to the congregation and then prepare a Sunday service based on their experiences. The youth agreed, with a commitment from the Pastor as well. If the youth accepted the challenge the Pastor would allow the youth to dye his hair RED.
Sunday morning, August 20th, a Red Headed Pastor and 8 youth entered a Sanctuary that had been turned into a Construction Site. Yellow construction tape, ladders, a big screen and 8 hard hatted youth began the service entitled, Who are you becoming. The theme said our youth are Christians "under construction" and are active members of our Congregation who contribute to the total energy of the group. And energy they provided for a fantastic Worship Service. They encouraged the rest of the congregation to "Come and See" what they saw at NYC.
Source: October 2006 IL/WI District Newsletter
Eight youth and three adults boarded an early morning bus for Fort. Collins, Colorado. Their destination: National Youth Conference. They were excited, and a little sleepy anticipating what lay ahead the next few days.
NYC exceeded their expectations and they were inspired to be a moving force in the Peoria Congregation when they got back. On the bus on the way home, Pastor Dana McNeil challenged the youth to bring their individual testimonies to the congregation and then prepare a Sunday service based on their experiences. The youth agreed, with a commitment from the Pastor as well. If the youth accepted the challenge the Pastor would allow the youth to dye his hair RED.Sunday morning, August 20th, a Red Headed Pastor and 8 youth entered a Sanctuary that had been turned into a Construction Site. Yellow construction tape, ladders, a big screen and 8 hard hatted youth began the service entitled, Who are you becoming. The theme said our youth are Christians "under construction" and are active members of our Congregation who contribute to the total energy of the group. And energy they provided for a fantastic Worship Service. They encouraged the rest of the congregation to "Come and See" what they saw at NYC.
Source: October 2006 IL/WI District Newsletter
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Brethren are invited to Counter-Recruitment Conference.
A Counter-Recruitment Conference sponsored by Mennonite Central Committee US (MCC US) will be held in San Antonio, Texas, on Nov. 3-5. On Earth Peace is planning a delegation from Church of the Brethren congregations, led by Matt Guynn, coordinator of Peace Witness.
"This is an open invitation event which a group of Mennonites who are mostly people of color have had the major hand in planning," reported Guynn. “The conference is going to be a special opportunity to worship, share, learn, and plan together as we prepare to respond actively to the impact of military recruitment on communities.”
The conference will bring together youth and adults from communities heavily targeted by military recruitment. It was inspired by the Anabaptist Consultation that took place at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., in March 2005, which focused on the potential for military conscription.
"Given the strong military recruitment efforts in communities burdened by poverty and racism, a people-of-color caucus at the (March 2005) consultation issued a strong call for a conference focusing on military recruitment," said the announcement of the event from MCC US.
The event is planned for youth and young adults, youth sponsors, Sunday school teachers, pastors and youth pastors, district and conference youth ministers, peace committee members, school teachers, and guidance counselors. Organizers hope to equip congregations to help youth find meaningful nonmilitary opportunities for education, job training, employment, and leadership development; network and share resources and strategies for outreach in schools and other public settings; and ground the work of counter recruitment in commitment to Christ's way of peace and reconciliation through worship and biblical study.
Register and get more information at www.mcc.org/us/co/counter/conference. To attend as part of the Brethren delegation, contact Guynn at mattguynn@earthlink.net or 765-962-6234.
A truth-in-recruiting organizing and outreach packet is now available from On Earth Peace, including a 10-minute DVD to be used as a conversation starter related to questions of military recruitment. The packet will be useful for Sunday school classes and youth groups. For more information go to the On Earth Peace website www.brethren.org/oepa/CounterRecruitment.html.
Source: 8/30/2006 Newsline
top
A Counter-Recruitment Conference sponsored by Mennonite Central Committee US (MCC US) will be held in San Antonio, Texas, on Nov. 3-5. On Earth Peace is planning a delegation from Church of the Brethren congregations, led by Matt Guynn, coordinator of Peace Witness.
"This is an open invitation event which a group of Mennonites who are mostly people of color have had the major hand in planning," reported Guynn. “The conference is going to be a special opportunity to worship, share, learn, and plan together as we prepare to respond actively to the impact of military recruitment on communities.”
The conference will bring together youth and adults from communities heavily targeted by military recruitment. It was inspired by the Anabaptist Consultation that took place at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., in March 2005, which focused on the potential for military conscription.
"Given the strong military recruitment efforts in communities burdened by poverty and racism, a people-of-color caucus at the (March 2005) consultation issued a strong call for a conference focusing on military recruitment," said the announcement of the event from MCC US.
The event is planned for youth and young adults, youth sponsors, Sunday school teachers, pastors and youth pastors, district and conference youth ministers, peace committee members, school teachers, and guidance counselors. Organizers hope to equip congregations to help youth find meaningful nonmilitary opportunities for education, job training, employment, and leadership development; network and share resources and strategies for outreach in schools and other public settings; and ground the work of counter recruitment in commitment to Christ's way of peace and reconciliation through worship and biblical study.
Register and get more information at www.mcc.org/us/co/counter/conference. To attend as part of the Brethren delegation, contact Guynn at mattguynn@earthlink.net or 765-962-6234.
A truth-in-recruiting organizing and outreach packet is now available from On Earth Peace, including a 10-minute DVD to be used as a conversation starter related to questions of military recruitment. The packet will be useful for Sunday school classes and youth groups. For more information go to the On Earth Peace website www.brethren.org/oepa/CounterRecruitment.html.
Source: 8/30/2006 Newsline
top
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Come And See
“He (Jesus) said to them,‘Come and see.’” John 1:39a
National Youth Conference (NYC) 2006 challenged the youth of the Church of the Brethren to “come and see,” with a conference theme inspired by John 1:35-39.
The 3,606 youth, advisors, and staff who answered the call witnessed a faith in Christ that can move mountains.
Set at the base of the Rocky Mountains, NYC offered both an experience of the awesomeness of God’s creation, and a challenge to “move” the mountainous problems of our world such as poverty, child abuse, violence, and hunger.
Besides two daily worship services, participants studied the Bible, did service projects, played during recreation, went hiking, sang in the choir, and fellowshiped.
Souce: October 2006 Tapestry Newsletter
“He (Jesus) said to them,‘Come and see.’” John 1:39a
National Youth Conference (NYC) 2006 challenged the youth of the Church of the Brethren to “come and see,” with a conference theme inspired by John 1:35-39.
The 3,606 youth, advisors, and staff who answered the call witnessed a faith in Christ that can move mountains.
Set at the base of the Rocky Mountains, NYC offered both an experience of the awesomeness of God’s creation, and a challenge to “move” the mountainous problems of our world such as poverty, child abuse, violence, and hunger.
Besides two daily worship services, participants studied the Bible, did service projects, played during recreation, went hiking, sang in the choir, and fellowshiped.
Souce: October 2006 Tapestry Newsletter
Small things, great love
“In this life we cannot do great things. We can only do small things with great love.”
Although the words belong to Mother Teresa, Ken Medema cemented them in the minds of National Youth Conference (NYC) participants as song lyrics. The lesson, one of Jesus’ teachings, took root in the hearts of many. It was not hard to see the fruits of the spirit growing rapidly.
The generosity of young people is often discounted because of a perceived lack of resources or apathetic attitude. In fact, the generosity of people in general is underestimated for a myriad of reasons. And while the Church of the Brethren is not isolated from financial concerns, sharing resources as a sign of faith is still common practice.
On July 23, the hottest day of NYC 2006, thousands did one small thing with great love by participating in the REGNUH 5K Walk/Run to “turn hunger around.” Event supporters gathered pledges, and youth from 30 congregations even tithed 10% of their NYC registration fee. In total, the amount collected from the REGNUH Walk/Run and a worship offering garnered $87,078 for the hunger ministry of the Church of the Brethren General Board, the Global Food Crisis Fund. However, since NYC, money has continued to pour in; $8,000 additional dollars have been given, and donations are still arriving. Walking five kilometers to benefit those who face hunger is indeed a small thing; yet because it was done with great love, the blessings have also been great.
Perhaps the generosity of the youth is indicative of a wider and growing generosity in the church. Two funds of the Church of the Brethren General Board recently gave three grants, totaling $68,555, for the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, rebuilding following Hurricane Katrina, and a hunger relief program in Guatemala.
The Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF) has given a grant of $25,000 to support a Church World Service appeal for the humanitarian crisis created by the Israel/Hezbollah war in Lebanon. The EDF also granted $25,000 for Brethren Disaster Response to open a new rebuilding site in an area affected by Katrina.
The Global Food Crisis Fund allocated $18,555 to help increase food diversification through community greenhouses and patio gardening.
While these offerings may not end world hunger or humanitarian crisis, they are evidence that our Church of the Brethren identity as those who act according “to the glory of God and our neighbor’s good” lives on.
Souce: October 2006 Tapestry Newsletter
“In this life we cannot do great things. We can only do small things with great love.”
Although the words belong to Mother Teresa, Ken Medema cemented them in the minds of National Youth Conference (NYC) participants as song lyrics. The lesson, one of Jesus’ teachings, took root in the hearts of many. It was not hard to see the fruits of the spirit growing rapidly.
The generosity of young people is often discounted because of a perceived lack of resources or apathetic attitude. In fact, the generosity of people in general is underestimated for a myriad of reasons. And while the Church of the Brethren is not isolated from financial concerns, sharing resources as a sign of faith is still common practice.
On July 23, the hottest day of NYC 2006, thousands did one small thing with great love by participating in the REGNUH 5K Walk/Run to “turn hunger around.” Event supporters gathered pledges, and youth from 30 congregations even tithed 10% of their NYC registration fee. In total, the amount collected from the REGNUH Walk/Run and a worship offering garnered $87,078 for the hunger ministry of the Church of the Brethren General Board, the Global Food Crisis Fund. However, since NYC, money has continued to pour in; $8,000 additional dollars have been given, and donations are still arriving. Walking five kilometers to benefit those who face hunger is indeed a small thing; yet because it was done with great love, the blessings have also been great.
Perhaps the generosity of the youth is indicative of a wider and growing generosity in the church. Two funds of the Church of the Brethren General Board recently gave three grants, totaling $68,555, for the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, rebuilding following Hurricane Katrina, and a hunger relief program in Guatemala.
The Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF) has given a grant of $25,000 to support a Church World Service appeal for the humanitarian crisis created by the Israel/Hezbollah war in Lebanon. The EDF also granted $25,000 for Brethren Disaster Response to open a new rebuilding site in an area affected by Katrina.
The Global Food Crisis Fund allocated $18,555 to help increase food diversification through community greenhouses and patio gardening.
While these offerings may not end world hunger or humanitarian crisis, they are evidence that our Church of the Brethren identity as those who act according “to the glory of God and our neighbor’s good” lives on.
Souce: October 2006 Tapestry Newsletter
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
BRETHREN ARE INVITED TO COUNTER-RECRUITMENT CONFERENCE
A Counter-Recruitment Conference sponsored by Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) US will be held in San Antonio, Texas, on Nov. 3-5. On Earth Peace is planning a delegation from the Church of the Brethren, led by staff member Matt Guynn, coordinator of Peace Witness.
"This is an open invitation event which a group of Mennonites who are mostly people of color have had the major hand in planning," reported Guynn. “The conference is going to be a special opportunity to worship, share, learn, and plan together as we prepare to respond actively to the impact of military recruitment on communities,” he added.
The conference will bring together youth and adults from communities heavily targeted by military recruitment. It was inspired by the Anabaptist consultation that took place at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., in March 2005, which focused on the potential for military conscription.
"Given the strong military recruitment efforts in communities burdened by poverty and racism, a people-of-color caucus at the (March 2005) consultation issued a strong call for a conference focusing on military recruitment," said the announcement of the event from MCC US.
Organizers hope to equip congregations to help youth find meaningful nonmilitary opportunities for education, job training, employment, and leadership development; network and share resources and strategies for outreach in schools and other public settings; and ground the work of counter recruitment in commitment to Christ's way of peace and reconciliation through worship and biblical study.
The event is planned for youth and young adults, youth sponsors, Sunday school teachers, pastors and youth pastors, district and conference youth ministers, peace committee members, school teachers, and guidance counselors.
Register for the conference and get more information at www.mcc.org/us/co/counter/conference. To express interest in attending as part of the Brethren delegation, contact Guynn at mattguynn@earthlink.net or 765-962-6234. For more about On Earth Peace's work in this area, please go to http://www.brethren.org/oepa/CounterRecruitment.html.
A Counter-Recruitment Conference sponsored by Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) US will be held in San Antonio, Texas, on Nov. 3-5. On Earth Peace is planning a delegation from the Church of the Brethren, led by staff member Matt Guynn, coordinator of Peace Witness.
"This is an open invitation event which a group of Mennonites who are mostly people of color have had the major hand in planning," reported Guynn. “The conference is going to be a special opportunity to worship, share, learn, and plan together as we prepare to respond actively to the impact of military recruitment on communities,” he added.
The conference will bring together youth and adults from communities heavily targeted by military recruitment. It was inspired by the Anabaptist consultation that took place at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., in March 2005, which focused on the potential for military conscription.
"Given the strong military recruitment efforts in communities burdened by poverty and racism, a people-of-color caucus at the (March 2005) consultation issued a strong call for a conference focusing on military recruitment," said the announcement of the event from MCC US.
Organizers hope to equip congregations to help youth find meaningful nonmilitary opportunities for education, job training, employment, and leadership development; network and share resources and strategies for outreach in schools and other public settings; and ground the work of counter recruitment in commitment to Christ's way of peace and reconciliation through worship and biblical study.
The event is planned for youth and young adults, youth sponsors, Sunday school teachers, pastors and youth pastors, district and conference youth ministers, peace committee members, school teachers, and guidance counselors.
Register for the conference and get more information at www.mcc.org/us/co/counter/conference. To express interest in attending as part of the Brethren delegation, contact Guynn at mattguynn@earthlink.net or 765-962-6234. For more about On Earth Peace's work in this area, please go to http://www.brethren.org/oepa/CounterRecruitment.html.
Friday, August 04, 2006
Youth bear witness to a faith in Christ that moves mountains.
National Youth Conference (NYC), July 22-27, 2006, challenged the youth of the Church of the Brethren to "come and see" with a conference theme inspired by John 1:35-39. The 3,606 youth and advisors who answered the call witnessed a faith in Christ that can move mountains.
Set at the base of the Rocky Mountains on the campus of Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colo., NYC offered a experience of the awesomeness of God’s creation, and a challenge to "move" the mountainous problems of our world such as hunger, poverty, child welfare, and violence.
Worship played a central role, with morning and evening worship celebrations held in Moby Arena. Questions of the day guided worship services led by a host of dynamic speakers--and by the NYC band that rocked the arena with the theme song, "Come and See" by Seth Hendricks.
Among preachers who inspired and challenged the youth were Craig Kielburger, founder of (Kids Can) Free the Children, who urged youth not to wait to get to work for God. "Every day we receive our calling," he said.
Jim Wallis, founder of Sojourners community in Washington, D.C., and an evangelical leader on social issues, gave the youth an important task: "You’ve got to clear up the confusion about what it means to be a Christian." Following Jesus means getting in the middle of the world’s suffering, "because that’s where (Jesus) stands inviting us in," he said.
Ken Medema, who has been a popular performer at previous youth conferences, sang a song in response to Wallis’ message. The congregation was invited to join in the chorus: "We are the people we’ve been waiting for. The world is waiting so come through the door. There’s lots of room here on the dancing floor. There’s no delaying anymore."
The Mennonite comedy duo Ted and Lee were received with laughter and applause as they acted out gospel stories about the disciples’ relationship with Jesus.
Youth speakers Jamie Frye from Kansas, Allen Bowers from Virginia, and Chrissy Sollenberger from Pennsylvania, each gave his or her own different perspective on what following Jesus really means.
Jeff Carter, pastor of Manassas (Va.) Church of the Brethren, answered the NYC theme with his statement, "It is the Christ that we have come to see."
In a service created by General Board staff, several Brethren youth and adults spoke of the importance of being part of the church, and told stories of their work for Christ in the world.
Beth Gunzel, Brethren mission worker in the Dominican Republic and consultant for a microloan community development program of the Church of the Brethren, led a service focused on the situation of the poor in the DR. She said that Christians have a responsibility to others. "We are guided by the Holy Spirit to turn wrongs into rights, to be used for a divine purpose," she said.
Andrew Murray, professor of peace studies at Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa., and a popular Brethren folksinger, answered the question of the day, "Who are you becoming?" At age 64, he told the conference that most of what he has become he never anticipated. "I believe Jesus said, ‘Come and see,’ because whose you become will determine who you become."
Preaching on 2 Corinthians 3:12-18, Bethany Seminary professor Dawn Ottoni Wilhelm said, "God’s got you covered.... But beware of the protective coverings you make for yourself" including "veils" of hardness of heart and mind, she added. "If you want to loosen the hold of hardness...then do what God does, do what this conference has asked you to do. Ask questions." Wilhelm asserted, "With every question we ask, we join Jesus in tugging at the veils and revealing God."
Worship on Wednesday evening ended with anointing for freedom through Christ. Afterwards, in moments of deep emotion, groups of youth sat in tight circles on the floor, or stood in large groups, swaying to the music with their arms around each other.
"I am ready to change the world!" responded Deborah from Washington State the next morning. She was one of several youth who gave testimonies at the final worship service. At NYC, "thousands of strangers have truly become the body of Christ," said Caitlin from Arizona.
New Community Project director David Radcliff preached for closing worship. "You’ve got the world in your hands," he said in a sermon that sent youth home with new hope and energy to follow Jesus. Brethren youth are up to the challenges of the 21st century, he said. "Jesus will give you power to change this world," Radcliff said. "I want to tell you Jesus believes in you, enough to put his mission and his world in your hands."
In addition to worship, NYC offered small groups, concerts, recreation, service projects, workshops, devotions, and late-evening activities. Tournaments of Jungle Ball volleyball and Ultimate Frisbee continued late Wednesday because of interruptions by afternoon thunderstorms earlier in the week. Concerts were given by Superchick, Ken Medema, Andy and Terry Murray, The Guys, and the Bittersweet Gospel Band. Other late-evening activities included worship service led by groups from Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, a talk-back session with Jim Wallis, a reception honoring scholarship recipients and international guests, a swing dance, a performance of "Godspell" by an arts camp from Camp Harmony, and an Open Mic talent show.
NYC coordinators Cindy Laprade, Beth Rhodes, and Emily Tyler worked with Chris Douglas, director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry for the General Board, and the National Youth Cabinet to prepare for the conference over the past two years. Cabinet members are Becky Ball-Miller, Leigh-Anne Enders, Nick Kauffman, Zac Morgan, Shawn Flory Replogle, Erin Smith, and Rachael Stevens. Numerous other volunteers made NYC possible including youth workers, worship coordinators and musicians, workshop and special event leaders, and youth advisors from congregations and districts.
For more stories and photos from National Youth Conference 2006, go to www.brethren.org/NYC2006/.
Source: 8/4/2006 Newsline Special Report
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National Youth Conference (NYC), July 22-27, 2006, challenged the youth of the Church of the Brethren to "come and see" with a conference theme inspired by John 1:35-39. The 3,606 youth and advisors who answered the call witnessed a faith in Christ that can move mountains.
Set at the base of the Rocky Mountains on the campus of Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colo., NYC offered a experience of the awesomeness of God’s creation, and a challenge to "move" the mountainous problems of our world such as hunger, poverty, child welfare, and violence.
Worship played a central role, with morning and evening worship celebrations held in Moby Arena. Questions of the day guided worship services led by a host of dynamic speakers--and by the NYC band that rocked the arena with the theme song, "Come and See" by Seth Hendricks.
Among preachers who inspired and challenged the youth were Craig Kielburger, founder of (Kids Can) Free the Children, who urged youth not to wait to get to work for God. "Every day we receive our calling," he said.
Jim Wallis, founder of Sojourners community in Washington, D.C., and an evangelical leader on social issues, gave the youth an important task: "You’ve got to clear up the confusion about what it means to be a Christian." Following Jesus means getting in the middle of the world’s suffering, "because that’s where (Jesus) stands inviting us in," he said.
Ken Medema, who has been a popular performer at previous youth conferences, sang a song in response to Wallis’ message. The congregation was invited to join in the chorus: "We are the people we’ve been waiting for. The world is waiting so come through the door. There’s lots of room here on the dancing floor. There’s no delaying anymore."
The Mennonite comedy duo Ted and Lee were received with laughter and applause as they acted out gospel stories about the disciples’ relationship with Jesus.
Youth speakers Jamie Frye from Kansas, Allen Bowers from Virginia, and Chrissy Sollenberger from Pennsylvania, each gave his or her own different perspective on what following Jesus really means.
Jeff Carter, pastor of Manassas (Va.) Church of the Brethren, answered the NYC theme with his statement, "It is the Christ that we have come to see."
In a service created by General Board staff, several Brethren youth and adults spoke of the importance of being part of the church, and told stories of their work for Christ in the world.
Beth Gunzel, Brethren mission worker in the Dominican Republic and consultant for a microloan community development program of the Church of the Brethren, led a service focused on the situation of the poor in the DR. She said that Christians have a responsibility to others. "We are guided by the Holy Spirit to turn wrongs into rights, to be used for a divine purpose," she said.
Andrew Murray, professor of peace studies at Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa., and a popular Brethren folksinger, answered the question of the day, "Who are you becoming?" At age 64, he told the conference that most of what he has become he never anticipated. "I believe Jesus said, ‘Come and see,’ because whose you become will determine who you become."
Preaching on 2 Corinthians 3:12-18, Bethany Seminary professor Dawn Ottoni Wilhelm said, "God’s got you covered.... But beware of the protective coverings you make for yourself" including "veils" of hardness of heart and mind, she added. "If you want to loosen the hold of hardness...then do what God does, do what this conference has asked you to do. Ask questions." Wilhelm asserted, "With every question we ask, we join Jesus in tugging at the veils and revealing God."
Worship on Wednesday evening ended with anointing for freedom through Christ. Afterwards, in moments of deep emotion, groups of youth sat in tight circles on the floor, or stood in large groups, swaying to the music with their arms around each other.
"I am ready to change the world!" responded Deborah from Washington State the next morning. She was one of several youth who gave testimonies at the final worship service. At NYC, "thousands of strangers have truly become the body of Christ," said Caitlin from Arizona.
New Community Project director David Radcliff preached for closing worship. "You’ve got the world in your hands," he said in a sermon that sent youth home with new hope and energy to follow Jesus. Brethren youth are up to the challenges of the 21st century, he said. "Jesus will give you power to change this world," Radcliff said. "I want to tell you Jesus believes in you, enough to put his mission and his world in your hands."
In addition to worship, NYC offered small groups, concerts, recreation, service projects, workshops, devotions, and late-evening activities. Tournaments of Jungle Ball volleyball and Ultimate Frisbee continued late Wednesday because of interruptions by afternoon thunderstorms earlier in the week. Concerts were given by Superchick, Ken Medema, Andy and Terry Murray, The Guys, and the Bittersweet Gospel Band. Other late-evening activities included worship service led by groups from Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, a talk-back session with Jim Wallis, a reception honoring scholarship recipients and international guests, a swing dance, a performance of "Godspell" by an arts camp from Camp Harmony, and an Open Mic talent show.
NYC coordinators Cindy Laprade, Beth Rhodes, and Emily Tyler worked with Chris Douglas, director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry for the General Board, and the National Youth Cabinet to prepare for the conference over the past two years. Cabinet members are Becky Ball-Miller, Leigh-Anne Enders, Nick Kauffman, Zac Morgan, Shawn Flory Replogle, Erin Smith, and Rachael Stevens. Numerous other volunteers made NYC possible including youth workers, worship coordinators and musicians, workshop and special event leaders, and youth advisors from congregations and districts.
For more stories and photos from National Youth Conference 2006, go to www.brethren.org/NYC2006/.
Source: 8/4/2006 Newsline Special Report
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Wow! Together we can end hunger.
Hunger is a big word, seemingly larger than all our efforts to combat it. But the funds raised in various ways by NYC participants to turn hunger around is huge--exceeding even the wildest expectations of the coordinators. NYC 2006 has demonstrated in a very real way that youth are intentional about the church’s work to end hunger and poverty.
Responding to the theme, "Come and See," more than 1,100 people took part in a REGNUH 5K Walk/Run to "turn hunger around." Sponsorships of participants, coupled with a special offering, has now raised a total of $90,904.63.
The total adds $3,825.67 received since NYC ended, to the previous total of $87,078.96 announced on the last day of the conference. It includes $29,410.08 in REGNUH sponsorships and $61,494.55 received in the offering and through tithes of NYC registration fees from more than 30 congregations. The funds will be distributed through the Global Food Crisis Fund of the Church of the Brethren General Board.
"WOW!" said Howard Royer, manager of the Global Food Crisis Fund. "What signals NYC has sent to the church and the world! The first is to offer what Brethren and the Bible have championed--that God calls us to be with the poor and the hungry. The second is that no longer are the most vulnerable to be the most expendable; together we can put an end to extreme hunger."
Daniel Neidlinger of Indiana was the first runner to cross the REHNUH finish line, with a time of 19 minutes, 28 seconds. Dustin Adams of Maryland came in second.
Neidlinger’s whole youth group of nine, including advisors, either ran or walked. "They all wanted me to run to win it!" said Neidlinger, who does cross country and track in high school. His church helped the youth raise several hundred dollars for the Global Food Crisis Fund, and was still collecting a special offering in worship the morning of the REGNUH walk/run.
One of the top individual fundraisers for REGNUH is Dianne Hollinger, a youth advisor from York (Pa.) First Church of the Brethren, who raised $4,422. She originally challenged her congregation to help her raise $2,000, saying she would run 10 percent of the course for every 10 percent of the money raised. The congregation raised more than twice that amount, so she ran the whole five kilometers. When Hollinger collapsed at the finish line, friends from her congregation were there to help her back to her feet.
Heather Simmons of Ohio walked the course. She said it was the experience that mattered--especially at one of the learning stations along the route when she carried buckets with 20 pounds of water to simulate what women in many countries do every day. She said, "I can’t imagine how they do it all the time."
Source: 8/4/2006 Newsline Special Report
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Hunger is a big word, seemingly larger than all our efforts to combat it. But the funds raised in various ways by NYC participants to turn hunger around is huge--exceeding even the wildest expectations of the coordinators. NYC 2006 has demonstrated in a very real way that youth are intentional about the church’s work to end hunger and poverty.
Responding to the theme, "Come and See," more than 1,100 people took part in a REGNUH 5K Walk/Run to "turn hunger around." Sponsorships of participants, coupled with a special offering, has now raised a total of $90,904.63.
The total adds $3,825.67 received since NYC ended, to the previous total of $87,078.96 announced on the last day of the conference. It includes $29,410.08 in REGNUH sponsorships and $61,494.55 received in the offering and through tithes of NYC registration fees from more than 30 congregations. The funds will be distributed through the Global Food Crisis Fund of the Church of the Brethren General Board.
"WOW!" said Howard Royer, manager of the Global Food Crisis Fund. "What signals NYC has sent to the church and the world! The first is to offer what Brethren and the Bible have championed--that God calls us to be with the poor and the hungry. The second is that no longer are the most vulnerable to be the most expendable; together we can put an end to extreme hunger."
Daniel Neidlinger of Indiana was the first runner to cross the REHNUH finish line, with a time of 19 minutes, 28 seconds. Dustin Adams of Maryland came in second.
Neidlinger’s whole youth group of nine, including advisors, either ran or walked. "They all wanted me to run to win it!" said Neidlinger, who does cross country and track in high school. His church helped the youth raise several hundred dollars for the Global Food Crisis Fund, and was still collecting a special offering in worship the morning of the REGNUH walk/run.
One of the top individual fundraisers for REGNUH is Dianne Hollinger, a youth advisor from York (Pa.) First Church of the Brethren, who raised $4,422. She originally challenged her congregation to help her raise $2,000, saying she would run 10 percent of the course for every 10 percent of the money raised. The congregation raised more than twice that amount, so she ran the whole five kilometers. When Hollinger collapsed at the finish line, friends from her congregation were there to help her back to her feet.
Heather Simmons of Ohio walked the course. She said it was the experience that mattered--especially at one of the learning stations along the route when she carried buckets with 20 pounds of water to simulate what women in many countries do every day. She said, "I can’t imagine how they do it all the time."
Source: 8/4/2006 Newsline Special Report
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Youth take up love offering at NYC.
Participants at NYC took up a love offering for a youth whose home was severely damaged by fire while he was at the conference. Jeff from Northern Indiana District received word July 25 that the house he and his mother lived in was damaged by a fire in an area of the house that included his room. The remaining part of the house suffered extensive smoke damage. The fire also claimed the life of the family's pet cats.
NYC counselors and spiritual directors collectively called for a love offering during an evening service. The response was so great that many people asked for an additional day to give more funds, reported district youth coordinator Keith Carter. The offering allows the family to replace necessities such as beds, clothing, and other household items in an expedient manner, he said.
"I would just like to thank everyone for responding the way in which they did," Jeff said. "I am thankful to all of you for your generosity. You all have helped me see God this week."
"I was deeply touched when I saw the outpouring of love and support by conference participants," Carter said. "What a great way for NYC participants to respond in an immediate tangible way to everything learned at NYC. The generosity and response has a great impact not only on Jeff and his family, but for the local congregation and district. Thank you to all for contributing to this love offering and most of all for being the church."
Stacey Carter, youth director at Jeff’s church, said, "God took a tragedy and turned it into a miracle! We are thankful for the abundant outpouring of love and support for Jeff and his mother. Thank you all for being Jesus to someone else."
Source: 8/4/2006 Newsline Special Report
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Participants at NYC took up a love offering for a youth whose home was severely damaged by fire while he was at the conference. Jeff from Northern Indiana District received word July 25 that the house he and his mother lived in was damaged by a fire in an area of the house that included his room. The remaining part of the house suffered extensive smoke damage. The fire also claimed the life of the family's pet cats.
NYC counselors and spiritual directors collectively called for a love offering during an evening service. The response was so great that many people asked for an additional day to give more funds, reported district youth coordinator Keith Carter. The offering allows the family to replace necessities such as beds, clothing, and other household items in an expedient manner, he said.
"I would just like to thank everyone for responding the way in which they did," Jeff said. "I am thankful to all of you for your generosity. You all have helped me see God this week."
"I was deeply touched when I saw the outpouring of love and support by conference participants," Carter said. "What a great way for NYC participants to respond in an immediate tangible way to everything learned at NYC. The generosity and response has a great impact not only on Jeff and his family, but for the local congregation and district. Thank you to all for contributing to this love offering and most of all for being the church."
Stacey Carter, youth director at Jeff’s church, said, "God took a tragedy and turned it into a miracle! We are thankful for the abundant outpouring of love and support for Jeff and his mother. Thank you all for being Jesus to someone else."
Source: 8/4/2006 Newsline Special Report
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NYC nuggets.
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- In other NYC offerings, 2,522 pounds of food was given to the Food Bank for Larimer County, Colo.; $18,532.37 was received for the NYC Scholarship Fund; 1,357 Gift of the Heart School Kits were donated along with $7,123.53 to help pay for shipping the kits to children in need through Church World Service.
- Service projects and mountain hikes were favorite NYC activities. Some 2,700 people went on hikes in the mountains above Fort Collins. More than 2,000 pre-registered to work at 45-plus service projects around the Fort Collins and Loveland areas. Projects included clean up of highways and parks, work at a shelter and thrift stores--including two run by Habitat for Humanity, a Hearts and Horses Therapy center, Fort Collins’ Lincoln Center for the performing arts, nursing homes, the university’s campus ministry, and many others.
- Inspired by REGNUH, a group of youth decided the next day to hold "REGNUH Part II." Spokesperson Alex from Pennsylvania said, "The service last night kind of touched me, and I had to do something." His friends reported that all day long he had been saying, "I’m on a God high!" The 13 youth and 2 advisors created their own walk of about 1 hour, or approximately 2 miles. Along the way, they asked people to join in or to give a donation. In another REGNUH-inspired effort, three youth from Pennsylvania--nose flute players Brad and David, their "manager" Seth, and a garden gnome mascot--created a band called "The Nose Knows" to raise money for hunger. They put the money into the offering for the Global Food Crisis Fund. The nose flute repertoire included "Yankee Doodle Dandy," "Mary Had a Little Lamb," and the theme song to "The Adams Family." "We're working on ‘Amazing Grace,’" they reported.
- Another REGNUH walk/run will be held at National Older Adult Conference (NOAC) on Sept. 7 at Lake Junaluska, N.C. NOAC is sponsored by the Association of Brethren Caregivers. Participants are being asked to accept the invitation to walk or run a two-mile circuit around the lake to support the Global Food Crisis Fund. First- and second-place awards will be given by the Brethren Foundation, which also is giving a "REGNUH...turning hunger around" cap to each walker and runner. The foundation is a ministry of Brethren Benefit Trust.
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Wednesday, August 02, 2006
New conscientious objector packets are available.
The Brethren Witness/Washington Office has introduced new conscientious objection material for youth and congregations. Resources included in previous conscientious objection packets have been updated and converted to electronic files and are available on a CD in the new packet.
Resources include materials on political advocacy and peace, biblical guidance for peacemaking, information on the potential for a draft, and steps on how youth can register as a conscientious objector to war. Other materials on the CD include "The Peace Book" produced by the Brethren Witness/Washington Office, counter-recruitment efforts against military recruitment, and volunteer opportunities.
Also included is an eight-section DVD with a study guide on issues of civil disobedience, the history of conscientious objectors and the military draft. A mock draft board is presented by the Brethren Witness/Washington Office.
The resources are provided to assist districts, congregations and youth leaders to young people think through issues of conscience. The CD and DVD are designed to help facilitate conversation, reflection, and action among youth, parents, congregations, and communities.
The new conscientious objector packets are available by contacting 800-785-3246 or Washington_office_gb@brethren.org. A suggested donation of $10 per packet will help cover costs. The Brethren Witness/Washington Office is a ministry of the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Source: 8/2/2006 Newsline
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The Brethren Witness/Washington Office has introduced new conscientious objection material for youth and congregations. Resources included in previous conscientious objection packets have been updated and converted to electronic files and are available on a CD in the new packet.
Resources include materials on political advocacy and peace, biblical guidance for peacemaking, information on the potential for a draft, and steps on how youth can register as a conscientious objector to war. Other materials on the CD include "The Peace Book" produced by the Brethren Witness/Washington Office, counter-recruitment efforts against military recruitment, and volunteer opportunities.
Also included is an eight-section DVD with a study guide on issues of civil disobedience, the history of conscientious objectors and the military draft. A mock draft board is presented by the Brethren Witness/Washington Office.
The resources are provided to assist districts, congregations and youth leaders to young people think through issues of conscience. The CD and DVD are designed to help facilitate conversation, reflection, and action among youth, parents, congregations, and communities.
The new conscientious objector packets are available by contacting 800-785-3246 or Washington_office_gb@brethren.org. A suggested donation of $10 per packet will help cover costs. The Brethren Witness/Washington Office is a ministry of the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Source: 8/2/2006 Newsline
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Tuesday, July 18, 2006
2006 Youth Peace Travel Team
Youth Peace Travel Team members (left to right) Margaret Bortner, Karen Duhai, Christina McPherson, and Corinne Lipscomb pause for a photo following a week-long orientation held in Richmond, IN, and at Camp Mack, IN. This year’s team will be visiting camps to the west in addition to attending Annual Conference and National Youth Conference. This peace travel team of four women will focus on the summer camp curriculum, Peace Talks. Following their training event at Camp Mack the team presented their first program before the participating staff partners. A high-energy skit they presented challenged everyone to realize and find power in the idea that we can all be about “changing the world.” The Youth Peace Travel Team is sponsored by Outdoor Ministries Association, On Earth Peace, and the General Board’s Youth and Young Adult, Brethren Volunteer Service, and Brethren Witness/Washington Offices.
Source: Summer 2006 Witness to Washington Newsletter
Youth Peace Travel Team members (left to right) Margaret Bortner, Karen Duhai, Christina McPherson, and Corinne Lipscomb pause for a photo following a week-long orientation held in Richmond, IN, and at Camp Mack, IN. This year’s team will be visiting camps to the west in addition to attending Annual Conference and National Youth Conference. This peace travel team of four women will focus on the summer camp curriculum, Peace Talks. Following their training event at Camp Mack the team presented their first program before the participating staff partners. A high-energy skit they presented challenged everyone to realize and find power in the idea that we can all be about “changing the world.” The Youth Peace Travel Team is sponsored by Outdoor Ministries Association, On Earth Peace, and the General Board’s Youth and Young Adult, Brethren Volunteer Service, and Brethren Witness/Washington Offices.Source: Summer 2006 Witness to Washington Newsletter
Monday, July 17, 2006
YOUTH FROM DOMINICAN REPUBLIC GET A FIRST TASTE OF US CULTURE ON THE WAY TO NATIONAL YOUTH CONFERENCE
A group of six youth from the Dominican Republic have “stepped out on faith” in their efforts to attend National Youth Conference, said Beth Gunzel. “It is a group of exceptional leaders who all have generous and kind spirits.” Gunzel is consultant for a microloan community development program in the Dominican Republic working with the General Board’s Global Mission Partnerships.
“I was immediately impressed to see how well they worked together and the thought-provoking questions they had,” Gunzel said of the Dominican youth. “The group maintained a positive attitude as they practiced songs and dramas, while facing the possibility of not being able to travel.”
A strict US immigration policy has made it very difficult for the youth to obtain travel visas, Gunzel said. “It would be hard to bear doing all that work and getting excited just to be told ‘no’ for no apparent reason,” she said.
The six youth from Iglesia de los Hermanos-DR (Church of the Brethren in the Dominican Republic) arrived July 15 to visit the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., and the Chicago-area congregations before attending National Youth Conference in Colorado. Gunzel is host and translator for the group, assisted by Tim Heishman, son of DR mission coordinators Irv and Nancy Heishman.
The six participants and their churches and villages are: Guildalba Feliz Guzmán, Peña de Horeb, Bastida; Elizabeth Feliz Marmolejos, La Hermosa, La Caya; MarÃa Virgen Suero De León, Ebenezer, Bonao; Vildor Archange, Nueva Unción, Mendoza; BenjamÃn Lamu Bueno, Rey de Reyes, Sabana Torsa (San Luis); and Pedro Sánchez Ledesma, pastor at Mone de los Olivos, Magueyal.
Guidalba Feliz Guzmán explained just how new this experience is for her. In one weekend, she has experienced for the first time computers, e-mail, air travel, and hamburgers. At a Sunday morning worship service at York Center Church of the Brethren in Lombard, Ill., Guzmán found herself enjoying the piano music, even without the clapping or drums she is accustomed to. “Although our worship styles differ, we serve the same God,” she said.
The group’s schedule included a potluck at Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin; a trip to Camp Emmaus and Pinecrest Community in Mount Morris, Ill.; worship with Christ Connections congregation in Oswego, Ill.; and sightseeing in downtown Chicago.
The Dominican group will be highlighted at NYC on Tuesday, July 25. During morning worship, Vildor Archange will share about the microloans program from his perspective as a board member and a local representative in his community. The group will perform the closing song for evening worship.
--Janis Pyle is coordinator of mission connections for the Global Mission Partnerships of the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Source: 7/17/2006 Newsline
A group of six youth from the Dominican Republic have “stepped out on faith” in their efforts to attend National Youth Conference, said Beth Gunzel. “It is a group of exceptional leaders who all have generous and kind spirits.” Gunzel is consultant for a microloan community development program in the Dominican Republic working with the General Board’s Global Mission Partnerships.
“I was immediately impressed to see how well they worked together and the thought-provoking questions they had,” Gunzel said of the Dominican youth. “The group maintained a positive attitude as they practiced songs and dramas, while facing the possibility of not being able to travel.”
A strict US immigration policy has made it very difficult for the youth to obtain travel visas, Gunzel said. “It would be hard to bear doing all that work and getting excited just to be told ‘no’ for no apparent reason,” she said.
The six youth from Iglesia de los Hermanos-DR (Church of the Brethren in the Dominican Republic) arrived July 15 to visit the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., and the Chicago-area congregations before attending National Youth Conference in Colorado. Gunzel is host and translator for the group, assisted by Tim Heishman, son of DR mission coordinators Irv and Nancy Heishman.
The six participants and their churches and villages are: Guildalba Feliz Guzmán, Peña de Horeb, Bastida; Elizabeth Feliz Marmolejos, La Hermosa, La Caya; MarÃa Virgen Suero De León, Ebenezer, Bonao; Vildor Archange, Nueva Unción, Mendoza; BenjamÃn Lamu Bueno, Rey de Reyes, Sabana Torsa (San Luis); and Pedro Sánchez Ledesma, pastor at Mone de los Olivos, Magueyal.
Guidalba Feliz Guzmán explained just how new this experience is for her. In one weekend, she has experienced for the first time computers, e-mail, air travel, and hamburgers. At a Sunday morning worship service at York Center Church of the Brethren in Lombard, Ill., Guzmán found herself enjoying the piano music, even without the clapping or drums she is accustomed to. “Although our worship styles differ, we serve the same God,” she said.
The group’s schedule included a potluck at Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin; a trip to Camp Emmaus and Pinecrest Community in Mount Morris, Ill.; worship with Christ Connections congregation in Oswego, Ill.; and sightseeing in downtown Chicago.
The Dominican group will be highlighted at NYC on Tuesday, July 25. During morning worship, Vildor Archange will share about the microloans program from his perspective as a board member and a local representative in his community. The group will perform the closing song for evening worship.
--Janis Pyle is coordinator of mission connections for the Global Mission Partnerships of the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Source: 7/17/2006 Newsline
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Young adults are called to experience transformation.
The annual Young Adult Conference took place May 26-28 at Camp Swatara in Bethel, Pa. Drawing 99 young adults and leaders from around the nation, the conference focused on Romans 12:2, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God--what is good and acceptable and perfect."
"Only when we allow ourselves to be transformed are we able to recognize, accept, and respond to what God wants from us," noted coordinator Emily Tyler.
Bob Etzweiler and Hannah Serfling were the featured young adult speakers. Etzweiler opened the weekend with a challenging assessment of the ways in which Christians as the Body of Christ must transform daily lifestyle choices into faith statements in order to continue living. Serfling focused on the transformation that takes place by seeking forgiveness from sin.
Other speakers included Marlys Hershberger, pastor of Hollidaysburg (Pa.) Church of the Brethren, who spoke about the idea that each of us is called to be a "reflector" of the love of Jesus Christ. Craig Smith, executive minister of Atlantic Northeast District, spurred conference-goers to "go and do likewise" after a message describing what transformation looks like in individuals and the church. Worship services also included communion and anointing.
When not worshiping, young adults participated in several other activities. Padare (workshop) sessions were held on topics ranging from storytelling to Bible study to immigration reform. "Joyful Noise" sessions gave participants a chance to sing favorite hymns while learning a few new tunes. Small groups, called Community Groups, met several times throughout the weekend.
A Coffeehouse affirmed that the Church of the Brethren has been given many talented young adults. Musical numbers included driving rhythms, rich guitar chords, and lyrics in at least two languages. Humor was a frequent guest in the room as well; participants had a hard time taking seriously the musician who wore an over-sized orange foam cowboy hat.
In addition to providing information on its services, Mutual Aid Association held a free ice-cream social and a drawing for door prizes.
The weekend ended with hugs and goodbyes to new and old friends. Hopefully, many will re-unite next year over Memorial Day weekend at Camp Harmony in Hooversville, Pa. Also, young adults are encouraged to begin making plans now to attend the second National Young Adult Conference, June 9-13, 2008, at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colo.
Source: 6/21/2006 Newsline
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The annual Young Adult Conference took place May 26-28 at Camp Swatara in Bethel, Pa. Drawing 99 young adults and leaders from around the nation, the conference focused on Romans 12:2, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God--what is good and acceptable and perfect."
"Only when we allow ourselves to be transformed are we able to recognize, accept, and respond to what God wants from us," noted coordinator Emily Tyler.
Bob Etzweiler and Hannah Serfling were the featured young adult speakers. Etzweiler opened the weekend with a challenging assessment of the ways in which Christians as the Body of Christ must transform daily lifestyle choices into faith statements in order to continue living. Serfling focused on the transformation that takes place by seeking forgiveness from sin.
Other speakers included Marlys Hershberger, pastor of Hollidaysburg (Pa.) Church of the Brethren, who spoke about the idea that each of us is called to be a "reflector" of the love of Jesus Christ. Craig Smith, executive minister of Atlantic Northeast District, spurred conference-goers to "go and do likewise" after a message describing what transformation looks like in individuals and the church. Worship services also included communion and anointing.
When not worshiping, young adults participated in several other activities. Padare (workshop) sessions were held on topics ranging from storytelling to Bible study to immigration reform. "Joyful Noise" sessions gave participants a chance to sing favorite hymns while learning a few new tunes. Small groups, called Community Groups, met several times throughout the weekend.
A Coffeehouse affirmed that the Church of the Brethren has been given many talented young adults. Musical numbers included driving rhythms, rich guitar chords, and lyrics in at least two languages. Humor was a frequent guest in the room as well; participants had a hard time taking seriously the musician who wore an over-sized orange foam cowboy hat.
In addition to providing information on its services, Mutual Aid Association held a free ice-cream social and a drawing for door prizes.
The weekend ended with hugs and goodbyes to new and old friends. Hopefully, many will re-unite next year over Memorial Day weekend at Camp Harmony in Hooversville, Pa. Also, young adults are encouraged to begin making plans now to attend the second National Young Adult Conference, June 9-13, 2008, at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colo.
Source: 6/21/2006 Newsline
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Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Manchester College Honors Five Alumni for Their Dedication to Education, Society, Youth
Chris Douglas, director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry for the Church of the Brethren General Board, was among five alumni of Manchester College who were honored at Alumni Days May 31-June 1 in North Manchester, Ind. Other honorees included former Manchester College faculty members Allen C. Deeter, William R. Eberly, and Arthur L. Gilbert, and college trustee Melvin L. Holmes. Deeter is professor emeritus of Religion and Philosophy and is well known for his leadership in expanding Brethren Colleges Abroad; Eberly is professor emeritus of Biology and author of “The History of the Natural Sciences at Manchester College”; Gilbert is professor emeritus of Accounting who led expansion of the accounting department and the master’s of accountancy degree; Holmes is a retired senior buyer at AM General Corporation in South Bend, Ind., and a community leader in intercultural relations. For more go to www.manchester.edu.
Chris Douglas, director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry for the Church of the Brethren General Board, was among five alumni of Manchester College who were honored at Alumni Days May 31-June 1 in North Manchester, Ind. Other honorees included former Manchester College faculty members Allen C. Deeter, William R. Eberly, and Arthur L. Gilbert, and college trustee Melvin L. Holmes. Deeter is professor emeritus of Religion and Philosophy and is well known for his leadership in expanding Brethren Colleges Abroad; Eberly is professor emeritus of Biology and author of “The History of the Natural Sciences at Manchester College”; Gilbert is professor emeritus of Accounting who led expansion of the accounting department and the master’s of accountancy degree; Holmes is a retired senior buyer at AM General Corporation in South Bend, Ind., and a community leader in intercultural relations. For more go to www.manchester.edu.
Thursday, June 01, 2006
NYC BUS TRIP IS A GO!
Two full buses will head west from the district at the end of July. By May 1, 105 youth and advisors registered for travel to National Youth Conference. Sixteen congregations represent IL/WI. Visiting youth from India who are guests of Naperville COB will ride with us.
One bus leaves Peoria COB at 8:30 a.m. on July 21. Another bus departs Naperville COB at 9:00 a.m. The two buses meet at Dixon COB leaving at 11:00 am. A prayer circle is planned at each location. Others are welcome to help send off our youth to NYC.
After an overnight stop in Omaha, Neb., our group arrives at National Youth Conference in Fort Collins, Colo., the afternoon of July 22. The Illinois/Wisconsin delegation joins about 3,500 other Brethren youth and advisors for five days of worship, fellowship, learning, service, and fun. We will leave Colorado late morning on July 27, stopping overnight at McPherson College. The buses return to the three Illinois churches late evening on July 28.
Itinerary details have been sent to registered bus riders. Please be in prayer for all those participating, and join the enthusiasm as the buildup to National Youth Conference continues.
Source: June 2006 District Newsletter
Two full buses will head west from the district at the end of July. By May 1, 105 youth and advisors registered for travel to National Youth Conference. Sixteen congregations represent IL/WI. Visiting youth from India who are guests of Naperville COB will ride with us.
One bus leaves Peoria COB at 8:30 a.m. on July 21. Another bus departs Naperville COB at 9:00 a.m. The two buses meet at Dixon COB leaving at 11:00 am. A prayer circle is planned at each location. Others are welcome to help send off our youth to NYC.
After an overnight stop in Omaha, Neb., our group arrives at National Youth Conference in Fort Collins, Colo., the afternoon of July 22. The Illinois/Wisconsin delegation joins about 3,500 other Brethren youth and advisors for five days of worship, fellowship, learning, service, and fun. We will leave Colorado late morning on July 27, stopping overnight at McPherson College. The buses return to the three Illinois churches late evening on July 28.
Itinerary details have been sent to registered bus riders. Please be in prayer for all those participating, and join the enthusiasm as the buildup to National Youth Conference continues.
Source: June 2006 District Newsletter
SPRING YOUTH RETREAT HEARS TOM BENEVENTO.
Tom Benevento works with poor and marginalized people in the US and Central America. He led several sessions on "Living Simply" for the spring youth retreat on March 17-19 at Freeport COB. Tom lives in Goshen, Ind., and works with the Global Mission Partnerships office of the General Board. He encouraged the youth to think about the choices they make and offered ideas for living in a sustainable and earth-friendly way.
Two dozen youth participated in the weekend, which included a service project, games, and worship times. Youth capped off the weekend by leading worship for Freeport's Sunday morning service.
The fall retreat will be held during district conference, Nov. 3-5 at York Center COB in Lombard, Ill. A possible post-National Youth Conference retreat/celebration is also being discussed. Watch for more information.
Source: June 2006 District Newsletter
Tom Benevento works with poor and marginalized people in the US and Central America. He led several sessions on "Living Simply" for the spring youth retreat on March 17-19 at Freeport COB. Tom lives in Goshen, Ind., and works with the Global Mission Partnerships office of the General Board. He encouraged the youth to think about the choices they make and offered ideas for living in a sustainable and earth-friendly way.
Two dozen youth participated in the weekend, which included a service project, games, and worship times. Youth capped off the weekend by leading worship for Freeport's Sunday morning service.
The fall retreat will be held during district conference, Nov. 3-5 at York Center COB in Lombard, Ill. A possible post-National Youth Conference retreat/celebration is also being discussed. Watch for more information.
Source: June 2006 District Newsletter
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Manchester College alum to study in Belgium
NORTH MANCHESTER - As a Manchester College student, Wendy J. Matheny learned about politics in West Africa, where she worked to help women break their cycle of poverty. After graduation, she studied Capitol Hill politics as an intern for U.S. Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton.
Now, with a full-ride Fulbright scholarship, Matheny, a Peoria native will research politics at the seat of the European Union and NATO - in Brussels, Belgium. Matheny, a 2005 cum laude graduate, is Manchester College's 19th Fulbright in 11 years. Her scholarship is for the 2006-2007 school year.
As a graduate student at the Université Libre de Bruxelles, she will study the political impact of the increased involvement of women in Belgian-European politics.
“The idea came to me when I was in Togo - seeing women at the bottom of the political food chain,” said Matheny, who volunteered for six weeks in West Africa with ECHOPPE Inc., which helps women start their own businesses and individual initiatives for economic improvement.
The political science and French major studied abroad at the Université de Strasbourg her sophomore year with Brethren Colleges Abroad, and spent a month in The Hague at the International Symposium on Negotiation and Conflict Resolution. She also served as a conference translator in Kenya and traveled to Ecuador on an environmental learning tour - all through her Manchester College connections.
And after her Fulbright year in Belgium?
“I love the political game and want to continue that in some form, whether on the domestic front or internationally,” said Matheny. “I'd love to work on the Hill again, but I also want to do grad school.”
Undoubtedly, she will continue to focus on the role of women in the international political arena.
Matheny came to Manchester because it is a Church of the Brethren college, and for the College's historical reputation in peace studies and study abroad opportunities. She was raised in the Peoria First Church of the Brethren.
Source: Wabash Plain Dealer
NORTH MANCHESTER - As a Manchester College student, Wendy J. Matheny learned about politics in West Africa, where she worked to help women break their cycle of poverty. After graduation, she studied Capitol Hill politics as an intern for U.S. Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton.
Now, with a full-ride Fulbright scholarship, Matheny, a Peoria native will research politics at the seat of the European Union and NATO - in Brussels, Belgium. Matheny, a 2005 cum laude graduate, is Manchester College's 19th Fulbright in 11 years. Her scholarship is for the 2006-2007 school year.
As a graduate student at the Université Libre de Bruxelles, she will study the political impact of the increased involvement of women in Belgian-European politics.
“The idea came to me when I was in Togo - seeing women at the bottom of the political food chain,” said Matheny, who volunteered for six weeks in West Africa with ECHOPPE Inc., which helps women start their own businesses and individual initiatives for economic improvement.
The political science and French major studied abroad at the Université de Strasbourg her sophomore year with Brethren Colleges Abroad, and spent a month in The Hague at the International Symposium on Negotiation and Conflict Resolution. She also served as a conference translator in Kenya and traveled to Ecuador on an environmental learning tour - all through her Manchester College connections.
And after her Fulbright year in Belgium?
“I love the political game and want to continue that in some form, whether on the domestic front or internationally,” said Matheny. “I'd love to work on the Hill again, but I also want to do grad school.”
Undoubtedly, she will continue to focus on the role of women in the international political arena.
Matheny came to Manchester because it is a Church of the Brethren college, and for the College's historical reputation in peace studies and study abroad opportunities. She was raised in the Peoria First Church of the Brethren.
Source: Wabash Plain Dealer
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
National Council of Churches seeks Stewards
The National Council of Churches (NCC) seeks young adults ages 18-30 to serve in its Stewards Program for the Nov. 7-9, 2006, General Assembly of the NCC and Church World Service in Orlando, Fla. The program provides young adults with a unique experience of ecumenical formation, as they serve to help make the assembly happen through volunteer assignments in hospitality, registration, platform assistance, technology, the assembly office, and the newsroom. Stewards arrive in Orlando for orientation on Nov. 5 and depart Nov. 10. Expenses except personal expenses will be covered by the assembly, through special donations from supporters. Deadline for applications is Aug. 1. Go to http://www.ncccusa.org/pdfs/2006stewardsapplication.pdf.
Source: 5/24/2006 Newsline
The National Council of Churches (NCC) seeks young adults ages 18-30 to serve in its Stewards Program for the Nov. 7-9, 2006, General Assembly of the NCC and Church World Service in Orlando, Fla. The program provides young adults with a unique experience of ecumenical formation, as they serve to help make the assembly happen through volunteer assignments in hospitality, registration, platform assistance, technology, the assembly office, and the newsroom. Stewards arrive in Orlando for orientation on Nov. 5 and depart Nov. 10. Expenses except personal expenses will be covered by the assembly, through special donations from supporters. Deadline for applications is Aug. 1. Go to http://www.ncccusa.org/pdfs/2006stewardsapplication.pdf.
Source: 5/24/2006 Newsline
Manchester College Fulbright Scholars
Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind., is sending two Brethren faculty members to Europe next year as Fulbright Scholars. Recent Manchester graduate Wendy Matheny, who was raised in First Church of the Brethren in Peoria, Ill., also has received a Fulbright scholarship to study the impact of women in politics at the seat of the European Union and NATO in Brussels, Belgium, as a graduate student at the Universite Libre de Bruxelles. Hers is Manchester College's 19th Fulbright in 11 years, the college said in a press release. Gregory W. Clark, associate professor of Physics, will work at Cardiff University in Wales this fall and in Jan. 2007 on nanoscience research involving conducting polymer molecules; and Steven S. Naragon, associate professor of Philosophy, will use his Fulbright grant in spring 2007 to translate into English a set of student notes from 18th century philosopher Kant's metaphysics lectures, working in Marburg, Germany. Both faculty attend Manchester Church of the Brethren. Matheny has been studying Capitol Hill politics as an intern for US Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton since her graduation from Manchester last year. Established in 1946 under legislation introduced by the late Senator J. William Fulbright of Arkansas, the Fulbright Scholar program is an international educational exchange activity sponsored by the US Department of State. For more go to www.manchester.edu.
Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind., is sending two Brethren faculty members to Europe next year as Fulbright Scholars. Recent Manchester graduate Wendy Matheny, who was raised in First Church of the Brethren in Peoria, Ill., also has received a Fulbright scholarship to study the impact of women in politics at the seat of the European Union and NATO in Brussels, Belgium, as a graduate student at the Universite Libre de Bruxelles. Hers is Manchester College's 19th Fulbright in 11 years, the college said in a press release. Gregory W. Clark, associate professor of Physics, will work at Cardiff University in Wales this fall and in Jan. 2007 on nanoscience research involving conducting polymer molecules; and Steven S. Naragon, associate professor of Philosophy, will use his Fulbright grant in spring 2007 to translate into English a set of student notes from 18th century philosopher Kant's metaphysics lectures, working in Marburg, Germany. Both faculty attend Manchester Church of the Brethren. Matheny has been studying Capitol Hill politics as an intern for US Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton since her graduation from Manchester last year. Established in 1946 under legislation introduced by the late Senator J. William Fulbright of Arkansas, the Fulbright Scholar program is an international educational exchange activity sponsored by the US Department of State. For more go to www.manchester.edu.
Monday, May 22, 2006
Exploring Your Call Canceled for 2006
An Exploring Your Call youth event has been canceled by sponsor Bethany Theological Seminary. The event was scheduled for June 23-27 at Shepherd’s Spring Outdoor Ministry Center in Sharpsburg, Md., but has been called off in light of the involvement of youth in National Youth Conference (NYC) in Fort Collins, Colo., July 22-27. Exploring Your Call began as an annual event in 2001 as an opportunity for high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors to consider issues of faith and vocation. EYC also did not take place in 2002, primarily in order not to conflict with NYC. Bethany students and staff will provide some leadership at NYC this year, and look forward to conversations with youth in these settings and at the Bethany exhibit, according to a release from the seminary. Some youth groups have planned a stop at Bethany’s Richmond campus as part of their NYC travels. Russell Haitch, assistant professor of Christian Education and director of Bethany’s Institute for Ministry With Youth and Young Adults, expects that Exploring Your Call will continue in the future. “This is a good time to re-evaluate, and possibly improve and refine the program,” he said. For more go to www.bethanyseminary.edu.
An Exploring Your Call youth event has been canceled by sponsor Bethany Theological Seminary. The event was scheduled for June 23-27 at Shepherd’s Spring Outdoor Ministry Center in Sharpsburg, Md., but has been called off in light of the involvement of youth in National Youth Conference (NYC) in Fort Collins, Colo., July 22-27. Exploring Your Call began as an annual event in 2001 as an opportunity for high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors to consider issues of faith and vocation. EYC also did not take place in 2002, primarily in order not to conflict with NYC. Bethany students and staff will provide some leadership at NYC this year, and look forward to conversations with youth in these settings and at the Bethany exhibit, according to a release from the seminary. Some youth groups have planned a stop at Bethany’s Richmond campus as part of their NYC travels. Russell Haitch, assistant professor of Christian Education and director of Bethany’s Institute for Ministry With Youth and Young Adults, expects that Exploring Your Call will continue in the future. “This is a good time to re-evaluate, and possibly improve and refine the program,” he said. For more go to www.bethanyseminary.edu.
Monday, May 15, 2006
Outdoor Ministries Association
The Outdoor Ministries Association is encouraging membership for volunteers involved in all areas of outdoor ministries, others interested in outdoor ministries, Brethren camps, as well as professional camp staff. “Join OMA: It’s not just for camp directors,” said a newsletter from Camp Bethel near Fincastle, Va., one of the 29 Church of the Brethren camps in the US. OMA serves in many roles, said the newsletter, as “a support network for Brethren camps, an active association of camp enthusiasts and professionals, an educational body providing programs and support to districts, and... a voice for the Church of the Brethren to the larger camping industry through the American Camp Association, the National Council of Churches camp curriculum writers, the Christian Ministries in the National Parks, and Christian Camp/Conference International.” OMA members support the outdoor ministries of the church and programs that promote stewardship of the environment. Members receive newsletters as well as information about conferences and trainings. Annual membership fees are $30 for an individual, $50 for a family, $150 for a camp professional. Go to www.campbethelvirginia.org/OMA.htm for the membership form. For more about the association go to www.cob-net.org/oma.htm or write to the Outdoor Ministries Association, P.O. Box F, Bethel, PA 19507.
The Outdoor Ministries Association is encouraging membership for volunteers involved in all areas of outdoor ministries, others interested in outdoor ministries, Brethren camps, as well as professional camp staff. “Join OMA: It’s not just for camp directors,” said a newsletter from Camp Bethel near Fincastle, Va., one of the 29 Church of the Brethren camps in the US. OMA serves in many roles, said the newsletter, as “a support network for Brethren camps, an active association of camp enthusiasts and professionals, an educational body providing programs and support to districts, and... a voice for the Church of the Brethren to the larger camping industry through the American Camp Association, the National Council of Churches camp curriculum writers, the Christian Ministries in the National Parks, and Christian Camp/Conference International.” OMA members support the outdoor ministries of the church and programs that promote stewardship of the environment. Members receive newsletters as well as information about conferences and trainings. Annual membership fees are $30 for an individual, $50 for a family, $150 for a camp professional. Go to www.campbethelvirginia.org/OMA.htm for the membership form. For more about the association go to www.cob-net.org/oma.htm or write to the Outdoor Ministries Association, P.O. Box F, Bethel, PA 19507.
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Young Adult Conference 2006
Young Adult Conference 2006 is planned for May 26-28 at Camp Swatara in Bethel, Pa., on the theme, "Transformed" from Romans 12:1-8. Activities will include worship, campfires, "padares" for small group discussion, an open microphone session, community groups, and a coffee house. Register online at www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/yac.htm.
Source: 5/10/2006 Newsline
Young Adult Conference 2006 is planned for May 26-28 at Camp Swatara in Bethel, Pa., on the theme, "Transformed" from Romans 12:1-8. Activities will include worship, campfires, "padares" for small group discussion, an open microphone session, community groups, and a coffee house. Register online at www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/yac.htm.
Source: 5/10/2006 Newsline
Steve Van Houten to coordinate General Board's workcamp ministry.
Steve Van Houten has been hired to fill a new position as coordinator of Workcamp Ministry for the Church of the Brethren General Board. The position is housed in the board's Youth and Young Adult Ministries, and will begin July 6 at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill.
Van Houten has been senior pastor of Akron (Ohio) Springfield Church of the Brethren for 11 years, and also spent 12 years as pastor of Cloverdale (Va.) Church of the Brethren. He also has been a volunteer leader for several workcamps for the General Board over the past 10 years.
He brings to the position a degree in biology and chemistry as a pre-med major at Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind., a degree from Bethany Theological Seminary, and several years of teaching high school math.
Source: 5/10/2006 Newsline
Steve Van Houten has been hired to fill a new position as coordinator of Workcamp Ministry for the Church of the Brethren General Board. The position is housed in the board's Youth and Young Adult Ministries, and will begin July 6 at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill.
Van Houten has been senior pastor of Akron (Ohio) Springfield Church of the Brethren for 11 years, and also spent 12 years as pastor of Cloverdale (Va.) Church of the Brethren. He also has been a volunteer leader for several workcamps for the General Board over the past 10 years.
He brings to the position a degree in biology and chemistry as a pre-med major at Manchester College in North Manchester, Ind., a degree from Bethany Theological Seminary, and several years of teaching high school math.
Source: 5/10/2006 Newsline
Brethren Academy offers courses for students, pastors, laypeople.
The Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership offers an array of courses in theological and biblical study, open to students in the Training in Ministry and Education for Shared Ministry programs as well as pastors seeking continuing education and interested laypeople. The academy is a ministry training partnership of the Church of the Brethren General Board and Bethany Theological Seminary.
Registration for each course costs $150. Each offers one academy-level credit for students or two continuing education credits for pastors. Upcoming courses include:
"Interpreting the Brethren," June 10-14, at Bethany Seminary in Richmond, Ind. Instructor is Timothy Binkley, archivist of the Center for Evangelical United Brethren Heritage at United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio.
"Worship," Sept 22-24, taught by Andrew Murray, professor of Peace and Conflict Studies and Religion, and director of the Baker Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies at Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa. This course is offered through the Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center.
"Daniel," Oct. 2-Nov. 11, an online course taught by Susan Jeffers, adjunct professor at Bethany and an academy instructor, is offered through the Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center.
"Passions of Youth, Practices of Christ," Oct. 12-15, a follow-up study to this summer's National Youth Conference for youth leaders and others interested in the rising generation in the church. The course will be taught at Manchester Church of the Brethren in North Manchester, Ind., by Russell Haitch, Bethany's assistant professor of Christian Education and director of the Institute for Ministry with Youth and Young Adults.
"Leaders, Boards, and the Brethren," Oct. 19-22, is centered on the experience of attending the fall meeting of the Church of the Brethren General Board in Elgin, Ill., taught by Brethren writer and historian James Lehman. The course introduces students to denominational structure and program, and current denominational leadership.
Registration brochures are available at www.bethanyseminary.edu/academy or by calling 800-287-8822 ext. 1824. Register for courses held through the Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center by contacting Mary Schiavoni, Program Administrator, Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center, Elizabethtown College, One Alpha Dr., Elizabethtown, PA 17022; 717-361-1450.
Source: 5/10/2006 Newsline
The Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership offers an array of courses in theological and biblical study, open to students in the Training in Ministry and Education for Shared Ministry programs as well as pastors seeking continuing education and interested laypeople. The academy is a ministry training partnership of the Church of the Brethren General Board and Bethany Theological Seminary.
Registration for each course costs $150. Each offers one academy-level credit for students or two continuing education credits for pastors. Upcoming courses include:
"Interpreting the Brethren," June 10-14, at Bethany Seminary in Richmond, Ind. Instructor is Timothy Binkley, archivist of the Center for Evangelical United Brethren Heritage at United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio.
"Worship," Sept 22-24, taught by Andrew Murray, professor of Peace and Conflict Studies and Religion, and director of the Baker Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies at Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa. This course is offered through the Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center.
"Daniel," Oct. 2-Nov. 11, an online course taught by Susan Jeffers, adjunct professor at Bethany and an academy instructor, is offered through the Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center.
"Passions of Youth, Practices of Christ," Oct. 12-15, a follow-up study to this summer's National Youth Conference for youth leaders and others interested in the rising generation in the church. The course will be taught at Manchester Church of the Brethren in North Manchester, Ind., by Russell Haitch, Bethany's assistant professor of Christian Education and director of the Institute for Ministry with Youth and Young Adults.
"Leaders, Boards, and the Brethren," Oct. 19-22, is centered on the experience of attending the fall meeting of the Church of the Brethren General Board in Elgin, Ill., taught by Brethren writer and historian James Lehman. The course introduces students to denominational structure and program, and current denominational leadership.
Registration brochures are available at www.bethanyseminary.edu/academy or by calling 800-287-8822 ext. 1824. Register for courses held through the Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center by contacting Mary Schiavoni, Program Administrator, Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center, Elizabethtown College, One Alpha Dr., Elizabethtown, PA 17022; 717-361-1450.
Source: 5/10/2006 Newsline
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
Illinois/Wisconsin District Church of the Brethren
National Youth Conference Bus Trip * July 21-28, 2006
subject to change - please check back
Friday, July 21, 2006
Saturday, July 22, 2006
Thursday, July 27, 2006
Friday, July 28, 2006
National Youth Conference Bus Trip * July 21-28, 2006
subject to change - please check back
Friday, July 21, 2006
| 8:30 a.m. | Bus 1 departs Peoria Church of the Brethren Address: 4714 N. Sheridan Rd., Peoria, IL 61614 | |
| 9 a.m. | Bus 2 departs Naperville Church of the Brethren Address: 1020 W. Jefferson Ave., Naperville, IL 60540 | |
| 10:30 a.m. (approx.) | Buses meet at Dixon Church of the Brethren Address: 215 N. Court (at corner of Court & Brinton Ave.), Dixon, IL 60123 | |
| 11 a.m. | Both buses depart Dixon Church of the Brethren | |
| 1 p.m. (approx.) | Lunch stop in West Branch/Iowa City, IA area | |
| 2 p.m. (approx.) | Depart lunch stop | |
| 6 p.m. (approx.) | Arrive Omaha, NE – meal stop in Council Bluffs, IA, or Omaha before reaching hotel | |
| 7 p.m. | Leave meal stop | |
| 7:15 p.m. | Arrive hotel – EconoLodge Omaha West Address: 10919 J St., Omaha, NE 68137 402-592-2882 |
Saturday, July 22, 2006
| 6 a.m. | Load baggage on buses | |
| 6:30 a.m.? | Buses depart hotel in Omaha ***TIME ZONE CHANGE EN ROUTE – TO MOUNTAIN DAYLIGHT TIME (gain one hour)*** | |
| 10:30 a.m. (MDT) | Brunch stop near Ogalalla, NE | |
| 11:30 a.m. | Depart brunch stop | |
| 3 p.m. (approx.) | Arrive Fort Collins, CO – Colorado State University |
Thursday, July 27, 2006
| ? a.m. | Time TBA – load baggage on buses | |
| 11 a.m. (slightly earlier if possible) | Depart Fort Collins, CO – Colorado State University | |
| 12:30 p.m. | Lunch stop in Aurora, CO area (east side of Denver) **NOTE: We may check in to possibility of box lunches to avoid need for lunch stop** | |
| 1:30 p.m. | Depart lunch stop ***TIME ZONE CHANGE EN ROUTE – TO CENTRAL DAYLIGHT TIME (lose one hour)*** | |
| 7 p.m. (CDT) | Dinner stop near Hays, KS | |
| 8 p.m. | Depart dinner stop | |
| 10 p.m. | Arrive McPherson College, McPherson, KS Accommodations in Dotzour Hall |
Friday, July 28, 2006
| 8 a.m. | Load baggage on buses | |
| 8:30 a.m. | Depart McPherson College, McPherson, KS | |
| 11:30 a.m. | Lunch stop in Kansas City/Gladstone, MO area | |
| 12:30 p.m. | Depart lunch stop | |
| 5:30 p.m. | Dinner stop in Grinnell, IA area | |
| 6:30 p.m. | Depart dinner stop | |
| 9:30 p.m. | Buses arrive at Dixon Church of the Brethren, Dixon, IL | |
| 10 p.m. | Buses depart Dixon, IL | |
| 11:30 p.m. | Bus 1 arrives at Naperville Church of the Brethren, Naperville, IL | |
| 12 a.m. | Bus 2 arrives at Peoria Church of the Brethren, Peoria, IL |
Friday, April 28, 2006
‘EXPLORING YOUR CALL’ EVENT FOR YOUTH IS SPONSORED BY BETHANY SEMINARY
An “Exploring Your Call” event for high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors is scheduled for June 23-27 at Shepherd’s Spring Outdoor Ministry Center in Sharpsburg, Md., sponsored by Bethany Theological Seminary.
“Do you...want to grow closer to God? Wonder what God has in store for you? Think about sharing your gifts and talents with the church and the world? Then Exploring Your Call is for you!” said an announcement of the event. “Exploring Your Call” is designed to help youth think about God’s calling, consider how to use their gifts, learn how to make life choices in relation to their faith, and make connections with other youth who are hearing God’s call.
The event is free to the youth who are accepted, with their only expense being travel cost to and from the event. Youth may register via e-mail by sending name, address, telephone number and alternate number, e-mail address, best times to be contacted, age on June 22, and “one question you have about God, about life, or about your future” to Jen Sanders, Exploring Your Call program director, at EYC@bethanyseminary.edu.
An “Exploring Your Call” event for high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors is scheduled for June 23-27 at Shepherd’s Spring Outdoor Ministry Center in Sharpsburg, Md., sponsored by Bethany Theological Seminary.
“Do you...want to grow closer to God? Wonder what God has in store for you? Think about sharing your gifts and talents with the church and the world? Then Exploring Your Call is for you!” said an announcement of the event. “Exploring Your Call” is designed to help youth think about God’s calling, consider how to use their gifts, learn how to make life choices in relation to their faith, and make connections with other youth who are hearing God’s call.
The event is free to the youth who are accepted, with their only expense being travel cost to and from the event. Youth may register via e-mail by sending name, address, telephone number and alternate number, e-mail address, best times to be contacted, age on June 22, and “one question you have about God, about life, or about your future” to Jen Sanders, Exploring Your Call program director, at EYC@bethanyseminary.edu.
Thursday, April 27, 2006
NCC General Assembly Seeks Stewards
An Experience in Ecumenical Formation for Young Adults
The National Council of Churches (NCC) is seeking young adults ages 18-30 to serve in its Stewards Program during the Nov. 7-9, 2006, General Assembly of the NCC and Church World Service in Orlando, Fla. The program provides young adults with a unique experience of ecumenical formation, as they serve to help make the assembly happen through volunteer assignments in hospitality, registration, platform assistance, technology, the assembly office, and the newsroom. Stewards must arrive in Orlando for orientation on Nov. 5 and depart Nov. 10. Expenses except personal expenses will be covered by the assembly, through special donations from supporters. Deadline for applications is Aug. 1. Go to http://www.ncccusa.org/pdfs/2006stewardsapplication.pdf.
An Experience in Ecumenical Formation for Young Adults
The National Council of Churches (NCC) is seeking young adults ages 18-30 to serve in its Stewards Program during the Nov. 7-9, 2006, General Assembly of the NCC and Church World Service in Orlando, Fla. The program provides young adults with a unique experience of ecumenical formation, as they serve to help make the assembly happen through volunteer assignments in hospitality, registration, platform assistance, technology, the assembly office, and the newsroom. Stewards must arrive in Orlando for orientation on Nov. 5 and depart Nov. 10. Expenses except personal expenses will be covered by the assembly, through special donations from supporters. Deadline for applications is Aug. 1. Go to http://www.ncccusa.org/pdfs/2006stewardsapplication.pdf.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Updates! Less than 90 Days until NYC starts!
- Registration is at a whopping 3571!
- Superchick is performing on Sunday night!
- The last day to sign up for Service Projects is May 1! If you want to participate and have not already expressed an interest on your registration, log back in and sign up!
- There are three Youth Speech Contest Winners: Allen Bowers, Jaime Frye, and Chrissy Sollenberger. Congratulations!
- There are currently 845 participants registered for the 5K Walk/Run. That means that there are 3 times as many people signed up to go hiking in the Rockies than there are signed up to walk to turn hunger around! It is not too late to sign up! You can log back into your registration account online and sign up today! The National Youth Cabinet is hoping that EVERYONE will participate!
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Winners of National Youth Conference Speech Contest are announced.
The National Youth Cabinet has announced the three winners of the 2006 National Youth Conference (NYC) Youth Speech Contest: Allen Bowers, Jamie Frye, and Chrissy Sollenberger. All three youth will deliver their speeches during the Monday morning worship celebration at NYC, on July 24 in Fort Collins, Colo.
Allen Bowers was born and raised in Woodstock, Va. He was baptized on Aug. 8, 1996, and will be 17 in May. He attends Antioch Church of the Brethren in Woodstock, Va., and is president of the congregation's youth group. Bowers has spoken at numerous churches in the past few years.
Jamie Frye lives in McPherson, Kan., where she is a member of Monitor Church of the Brethren. Next fall she will be a high school sophomore. She likes to participate in service projects, including a workcamp in Honduras with New Community Project and a Brethren Disaster Response project in Mississippi.
Chrissy Sollenberger is from Annville, Pa., and attends Mount Wilson Church of the Brethren in Lebanon, Pa. She is a high school junior and editor of the school newspaper. Sollenberger was the grand prize winner of "Messenger" magazine's 2005 youth essay contest.
For more information about National Youth Conference, including full biographies of the speakers, visit www.nyc2006.org.
Source: 4/12/2006 Newsline
The National Youth Cabinet has announced the three winners of the 2006 National Youth Conference (NYC) Youth Speech Contest: Allen Bowers, Jamie Frye, and Chrissy Sollenberger. All three youth will deliver their speeches during the Monday morning worship celebration at NYC, on July 24 in Fort Collins, Colo.
Allen Bowers was born and raised in Woodstock, Va. He was baptized on Aug. 8, 1996, and will be 17 in May. He attends Antioch Church of the Brethren in Woodstock, Va., and is president of the congregation's youth group. Bowers has spoken at numerous churches in the past few years.
Jamie Frye lives in McPherson, Kan., where she is a member of Monitor Church of the Brethren. Next fall she will be a high school sophomore. She likes to participate in service projects, including a workcamp in Honduras with New Community Project and a Brethren Disaster Response project in Mississippi.
Chrissy Sollenberger is from Annville, Pa., and attends Mount Wilson Church of the Brethren in Lebanon, Pa. She is a high school junior and editor of the school newspaper. Sollenberger was the grand prize winner of "Messenger" magazine's 2005 youth essay contest.
For more information about National Youth Conference, including full biographies of the speakers, visit www.nyc2006.org.
Source: 4/12/2006 Newsline
Counter-recruitment calls are scheduled for late April.
On Earth Peace has scheduled networking calls for those working on countering military recruitment for April 20 and 26.
"For those who haven't participated previously, the call is a great place to share what's been happening in your encounters with recruiters or work with youth around issues of militarism," said Matt Guynn, coordinator of peace witness for On Earth Peace. "We usually have eight to twelve participants from all around the country--California to Nebraska to Michigan to Maryland. Each gets a chance to share and request input or counsel. Whether or not you are currently active, it's a good place to hear how different groups are approaching the situation and get a little boost."
The calls will be offered on Thursday, April 20, at 7:30-9 p.m. eastern time, and on Wednesday, April 26, at 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. eastern time. Respond to mattguynn@earthlink.net. If responding, please indicate any specific focus or question for conversation.
source: 4/12/2006 Newsline
On Earth Peace has scheduled networking calls for those working on countering military recruitment for April 20 and 26.
"For those who haven't participated previously, the call is a great place to share what's been happening in your encounters with recruiters or work with youth around issues of militarism," said Matt Guynn, coordinator of peace witness for On Earth Peace. "We usually have eight to twelve participants from all around the country--California to Nebraska to Michigan to Maryland. Each gets a chance to share and request input or counsel. Whether or not you are currently active, it's a good place to hear how different groups are approaching the situation and get a little boost."
The calls will be offered on Thursday, April 20, at 7:30-9 p.m. eastern time, and on Wednesday, April 26, at 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. eastern time. Respond to mattguynn@earthlink.net. If responding, please indicate any specific focus or question for conversation.
source: 4/12/2006 Newsline
School Kits to be Collected for NYC Sunday Offering
NYC and Church World Service are teaming up to collect Gift of the Heart School Kits as an offering during the Sunday evening worship celebration. The school kits collected will give children in impoverished schools, refugee camps, or other difficult settings some of the basic tools needed for learning. Each donation must include exactly the materials listed below and will also require $2 to cover processing/shipping. Each kit should be packed in the cloth bag that is included in the list of supplies.
NYC and Church World Service are teaming up to collect Gift of the Heart School Kits as an offering during the Sunday evening worship celebration. The school kits collected will give children in impoverished schools, refugee camps, or other difficult settings some of the basic tools needed for learning. Each donation must include exactly the materials listed below and will also require $2 to cover processing/shipping. Each kit should be packed in the cloth bag that is included in the list of supplies.
- One pair of blunt scissors
- Pads or notebooks of ruled paper 8-1/2" X 11", containing 140-200 sheets of paper. No filler paper, please.
- One 30-centimeter ruler (12")
- One pencil sharpener
- Six new pencils with erasers
- One large eraser
- Twelve sheets colored construction paper
- One box of 24 crayons
- One 12" x 14" finished size, cloth bag with cloth handles and a closure (Velcro, snap, or button)
Young Adult Conference: May 26-28
Just a friendly reminder that Young Adult Conference is coming up, May 26-28 at Camp Swatara in Bethel, PA. Registration goes up from $80 to $100 May 1, so be sure to get your registration in before May 1!
Speakers for the weekend include:
To get information on the theme, as well as online registration, visit the YAC website at http://www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/yac.htm. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to give a call at 800-323-8039 x.286 or an e-mail at etyler_gb@brethren.org.
Just a friendly reminder that Young Adult Conference is coming up, May 26-28 at Camp Swatara in Bethel, PA. Registration goes up from $80 to $100 May 1, so be sure to get your registration in before May 1!
Speakers for the weekend include:
- Hannah Serfling
- Marlys Hershberger
- Bob Etzweiler
- Craig Smith
- Walt Wiltscheck
- Becky Ullom
- Wendy Matheny
To get information on the theme, as well as online registration, visit the YAC website at http://www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/yac.htm. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to give a call at 800-323-8039 x.286 or an e-mail at etyler_gb@brethren.org.
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
Regional Youth Conference at McPherson College
Youth from the central and plains states will be at McPherson (Kan.) College this weekend, March 31-April 2, for Regional Youth Conference on the theme "Come and See." Leadership includes the National Youth Conference coordinators Cindy Laprade, Beth Rhodes, and Emily Tyler as keynote speakers; and Seth Hendricks, a member of the band Mutual Kumquat, leading music. For more information contact 620-421-0742 ext. 1226 or replogles@mcpherson.edu.
Source: 3/29/2006 Newsline
Youth from the central and plains states will be at McPherson (Kan.) College this weekend, March 31-April 2, for Regional Youth Conference on the theme "Come and See." Leadership includes the National Youth Conference coordinators Cindy Laprade, Beth Rhodes, and Emily Tyler as keynote speakers; and Seth Hendricks, a member of the band Mutual Kumquat, leading music. For more information contact 620-421-0742 ext. 1226 or replogles@mcpherson.edu.
Source: 3/29/2006 Newsline
Visit Bethany while returning from NYC
Is your youth group looking for a great place to stop on the way back from National Youth Conference? Bethany Theological Seminary is offering TGIF (tours, games, information, and food) on July 29, from 2-9 p.m. Youth traveling home from NYC will be welcomed at Bethany's Richmond, Ind., campus. For more information or to let the seminary know that a youth group will attend, contact Kathy Royer at 756-983-1832 or royerka@bethanyseminary.edu.
Source: 3/29/2006 Newsline
Is your youth group looking for a great place to stop on the way back from National Youth Conference? Bethany Theological Seminary is offering TGIF (tours, games, information, and food) on July 29, from 2-9 p.m. Youth traveling home from NYC will be welcomed at Bethany's Richmond, Ind., campus. For more information or to let the seminary know that a youth group will attend, contact Kathy Royer at 756-983-1832 or royerka@bethanyseminary.edu.
Source: 3/29/2006 Newsline
Thursday, March 23, 2006
On Earth Pizza
Oakton Church of the Brethren in Vienna, Va., hosted “On Earth Pizza” on March 18, a time of informal sharing between On Earth Peace staff and Church of the Brethren members in the area of Washington, D.C. The gathering for youth and adults focused on questions such as “What’s happening in your community in terms of violence and injustice, militarism, racism, poverty?” A question specifically for youth asked, “What’s going on in your school with military recruiters?” For more about On Earth Peace go to www.brethren.org/oepa.
Oakton Church of the Brethren in Vienna, Va., hosted “On Earth Pizza” on March 18, a time of informal sharing between On Earth Peace staff and Church of the Brethren members in the area of Washington, D.C. The gathering for youth and adults focused on questions such as “What’s happening in your community in terms of violence and injustice, militarism, racism, poverty?” A question specifically for youth asked, “What’s going on in your school with military recruiters?” For more about On Earth Peace go to www.brethren.org/oepa.
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
Fulltime Coordinator of Workcamp Ministry
The Church of the Brethren General Board seeks a fulltime coordinator of Workcamp Ministry in the Youth and Young Adult Ministry Office in Elgin, Ill. The position starts this summer. Responsibilities include coordination of workcamps for junior high, senior high, and young adults; developing and expanding workcamp offerings; providing training and mentoring for Brethren Volunteer Service workers who serve as assistant coordinators; managing workcamp budgets, databases, and online registrations. Qualifications include membership in the Church of the Brethren, experience in working with youth and young adults, experience on workcamps or mission trips, organizational and administrative skills, experience working in a team, interpersonal and relational skills, ability to mentor young adults and provide spiritual leadership, willingness to travel. Education required is a minimum of a bachelor's degree, seminary education preferred, and competency with database and spreadsheet software. Application deadline is April 14. A position description and application form are available on request. Qualified candidates are invited to complete the General Board application form, submit a resume and letter of application, and request three references to send letters of recommendation to the Office of Human Resources, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120-1694; 800-323-8039 ext. 258; mgarrison_gb@brethren.org.
Source: 3/15/2006 Newsline
The Church of the Brethren General Board seeks a fulltime coordinator of Workcamp Ministry in the Youth and Young Adult Ministry Office in Elgin, Ill. The position starts this summer. Responsibilities include coordination of workcamps for junior high, senior high, and young adults; developing and expanding workcamp offerings; providing training and mentoring for Brethren Volunteer Service workers who serve as assistant coordinators; managing workcamp budgets, databases, and online registrations. Qualifications include membership in the Church of the Brethren, experience in working with youth and young adults, experience on workcamps or mission trips, organizational and administrative skills, experience working in a team, interpersonal and relational skills, ability to mentor young adults and provide spiritual leadership, willingness to travel. Education required is a minimum of a bachelor's degree, seminary education preferred, and competency with database and spreadsheet software. Application deadline is April 14. A position description and application form are available on request. Qualified candidates are invited to complete the General Board application form, submit a resume and letter of application, and request three references to send letters of recommendation to the Office of Human Resources, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120-1694; 800-323-8039 ext. 258; mgarrison_gb@brethren.org.
Source: 3/15/2006 Newsline
Workcamp space is still available for Pine Ridge Reservation.
The Youth and Young Adult Office "is excited to report that all spaces for the junior high workcamp opportunities are full!" said a report from Monica Rice, a workcamp coordinator. The response to the summer workcamps has been "overwhelmingly enthusiastic, and we are looking forward to an amazing summer of work and learning while focusing on the theme of 'Continuing the WORK of Jesus,'" she said.
One camp that still has space available is the senior high workcamp in Kyle, S.D., on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. "This will be a week of service and relationship building with the adults and youth on the reservation," Rice said. Senior high youth in the Church of the Brethren are invited to register for the camp, which will take place the week of June 11-17. The Pine Ridge workcamp experience also is being opened to any young adults who would like to join.
For more information visit http://www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/workcamps/Home.html or contact Rice at mrice_gb@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 281.
Source: 3/15/2006 Newsline
The Youth and Young Adult Office "is excited to report that all spaces for the junior high workcamp opportunities are full!" said a report from Monica Rice, a workcamp coordinator. The response to the summer workcamps has been "overwhelmingly enthusiastic, and we are looking forward to an amazing summer of work and learning while focusing on the theme of 'Continuing the WORK of Jesus,'" she said.
One camp that still has space available is the senior high workcamp in Kyle, S.D., on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. "This will be a week of service and relationship building with the adults and youth on the reservation," Rice said. Senior high youth in the Church of the Brethren are invited to register for the camp, which will take place the week of June 11-17. The Pine Ridge workcamp experience also is being opened to any young adults who would like to join.
For more information visit http://www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/workcamps/Home.html or contact Rice at mrice_gb@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 281.
Source: 3/15/2006 Newsline
National Youth Conference welcomes Superchick, Medema, Gunzel.
There are three additions to the line up of speakers and music leadership for National Youth Conference (NYC) in Fort Collins, Colo., July 22-27. The Christian band "Superchick" will be performing during Late Evening Activities on Sunday evening, July 23. Christian musician Ken Medema also will be sharing his talent with the Conference. However, Beatrice Biira will not be able to attend. In her place Beth Gunzel will be speaking.
"We are very excited to have Superchick on our schedule," said the NYC coordinating team of Cindy Laprade, Beth Rhodes, and Emily Tyler. "They're a great up and coming Christian band with songs already out on Christian radio."
Medema has performed at many past National Youth Conferences "and we are happy to have him return once again," the coordinators said. "He will be offering not only a Late Evening Concert, but also workshops and music leadership during a worship service."
Biira will not be able to attend because of problems with getting a visa to visit the US during the summer. Beth Gunzel has accepted the invitation to speak on the evening Biira was scheduled. A Church of the Brethren member working for the General Board's Global Mission Partnerships in the Dominican Republic, Gunzel will offer a unique perspective as a young adult working with an economic development program in the Caribbean island nation. Her work includes exploring "second-generation" business opportunities for communities in the DR. She also is working to increase the capacity of the Dominican Church of the Brethren to foster ownership and enable its successful operation of the program.
The current registration count for the conference stands at 3,133. Registration opened online on Jan. 1, and continues at www.nyc2006.org. The coordinators are hoping for a final registration of around 4,000 youth, advisors, volunteers, and staff.
Recently the worship coordinators and the National Youth Cabinet met to continue preparations for the conference. The coordinators also plan to travel to McPherson, Kan., to lead Regional Youth Conference at the end of March.
Special events at this year's NYC will include a "REGNUH" 5K walk/run to fight hunger, with proceeds going to the Global Food Crisis Fund, a ministry of the Church of the Brethren General Board (registration is $10, pledge sheets are available online); and the collection of Gift of the Heart School Kits at a Sunday evening offering (for information about collecting and packing items for the kits contact the NYC office or visit the website).
In preparation for the conference, the Church of the Brethren is being called to an "NYC Prayer Day" on June 25, to pray for those who will be traveling to Colorado for the event as well as to have an opportunity for congregations to commission youth and their advisors. Worship resources and commissioning ideas will be sent to pastors and NYC advisors and will be available online.
An "NYC Tithe Challenge" calls on congregations sending youth groups, and individuals who are planning to attend NYC, to give ten percent of their registration fees. This would come to $40 per person. The money will go to the Global Food Crisis Fund.
The worship coordinators also are looking for stories of Church of the Brethren youth to share during the NYC worship services. "Do you know youth who have felt empowered through faith and are doing something unique that is making a difference in the lives of others? Whose faith journey was positively impacted by the 2002 NYC?" asked the group. "If you know of a youth who fits these criteria, we would like to hear about them!" Responders are asked to first seek the youth's permission to tell their stories. Send both your contact information and the youth's contact information to Wendi Hutchinson at wendi_hutchinson@yahoo.com.
To receives updates about National Youth Conference, join a list serve at http://listserver.emountain.net/mailman/listinfo/nyc2006.
Source: 3/15/2006 Newsline
There are three additions to the line up of speakers and music leadership for National Youth Conference (NYC) in Fort Collins, Colo., July 22-27. The Christian band "Superchick" will be performing during Late Evening Activities on Sunday evening, July 23. Christian musician Ken Medema also will be sharing his talent with the Conference. However, Beatrice Biira will not be able to attend. In her place Beth Gunzel will be speaking.
"We are very excited to have Superchick on our schedule," said the NYC coordinating team of Cindy Laprade, Beth Rhodes, and Emily Tyler. "They're a great up and coming Christian band with songs already out on Christian radio."
Medema has performed at many past National Youth Conferences "and we are happy to have him return once again," the coordinators said. "He will be offering not only a Late Evening Concert, but also workshops and music leadership during a worship service."
Biira will not be able to attend because of problems with getting a visa to visit the US during the summer. Beth Gunzel has accepted the invitation to speak on the evening Biira was scheduled. A Church of the Brethren member working for the General Board's Global Mission Partnerships in the Dominican Republic, Gunzel will offer a unique perspective as a young adult working with an economic development program in the Caribbean island nation. Her work includes exploring "second-generation" business opportunities for communities in the DR. She also is working to increase the capacity of the Dominican Church of the Brethren to foster ownership and enable its successful operation of the program.
The current registration count for the conference stands at 3,133. Registration opened online on Jan. 1, and continues at www.nyc2006.org. The coordinators are hoping for a final registration of around 4,000 youth, advisors, volunteers, and staff.
Recently the worship coordinators and the National Youth Cabinet met to continue preparations for the conference. The coordinators also plan to travel to McPherson, Kan., to lead Regional Youth Conference at the end of March.
Special events at this year's NYC will include a "REGNUH" 5K walk/run to fight hunger, with proceeds going to the Global Food Crisis Fund, a ministry of the Church of the Brethren General Board (registration is $10, pledge sheets are available online); and the collection of Gift of the Heart School Kits at a Sunday evening offering (for information about collecting and packing items for the kits contact the NYC office or visit the website).
In preparation for the conference, the Church of the Brethren is being called to an "NYC Prayer Day" on June 25, to pray for those who will be traveling to Colorado for the event as well as to have an opportunity for congregations to commission youth and their advisors. Worship resources and commissioning ideas will be sent to pastors and NYC advisors and will be available online.
An "NYC Tithe Challenge" calls on congregations sending youth groups, and individuals who are planning to attend NYC, to give ten percent of their registration fees. This would come to $40 per person. The money will go to the Global Food Crisis Fund.
The worship coordinators also are looking for stories of Church of the Brethren youth to share during the NYC worship services. "Do you know youth who have felt empowered through faith and are doing something unique that is making a difference in the lives of others? Whose faith journey was positively impacted by the 2002 NYC?" asked the group. "If you know of a youth who fits these criteria, we would like to hear about them!" Responders are asked to first seek the youth's permission to tell their stories. Send both your contact information and the youth's contact information to Wendi Hutchinson at wendi_hutchinson@yahoo.com.
To receives updates about National Youth Conference, join a list serve at http://listserver.emountain.net/mailman/listinfo/nyc2006.
Source: 3/15/2006 Newsline
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