Bible school students build faith on Habitat project
by ADAM BEHSUDI
HAGERSTOWN
On a steamy Tuesday evening, students from Beaver Creek (Md.) Church of the Brethren's vacation Bible school lined up to receive paint rollers and brushes.
Three bedrooms in the partially finished house waited for a fresh coat of the cream-colored paint.
The house at 246 Vickie Drive is a Habitat for Humanity project. With help from the church group, it was one step closer to completion.
Dennis Minnick, one of the adult supervisors of the group of seven high school-aged children, said they would probably be back tonight to do some more painting.
"They get along together," he said of the teenagers.
In a back room, Nathaniel Minnick, a student at Smithsburg High School, was painting the top edge of a wall, careful not to get paint on the ceiling. With a flourish from their paint rollers, the other members of the group were rapidly applying the first coat of paint.
Dennis Minnick said the theme of the Bible school is "Construction Zone." He said helping with the Habitat for Humanity project was a way for the youths to put what they learned into action, literally.
"Building faith in God. Building character to be like Jesus," said Keith Griffith Jr., a recent graduate of South Hagerstown High School, about the theme of the camp. He was carefully applying paint along a window frame with a small brush.
Tom Ferguson, another supervisor for the project, said some members of the church, including some of the participants in the Bible school, are going to Pensacola, Fla., in coming weeks to help repair damage caused by Hurricane Dennis.
As a member of the disaster response team for the church, Ferguson has helped repair damage from storms in Mississippi and Virginia.
The Habitat house the church youth group is working on is one of two being built in the county, said Sherry Brown Cooper, the director of Washington County Habitat for Humanity.
She said volunteers and donations have increased in recent years, but so has the price of land. Finding an affordable piece of land to build on is one the biggest challenges the nonprofit group faces.
"There's demand for affordable housing ... personally, I think it's the greatest need in Washington County," Cooper said.
Source: Hagerstown Herald-Mail ONLINE
News items pertaining to youth and young adults in the Church of the Brethren.
Wednesday, July 13, 2005
Thursday, July 07, 2005
Young Adult Conference explores the art of provocation.
More than 130 young adults explored the art of provocation at this year's Church of the Brethren Young Adult Conference. The gathering May 27-29 at Camp Woodland Altars near Peebles, Ohio, had as its theme, "Provoking Love and Good Deeds," based on Hebrews 10:24.
Worship formed the heart of the conference, with three speakers and a service of drama and multimedia examining aspects of the theme. Young adult Jim Stokes-Buckles of Putney, Vt., in the opening service noted Jesus Christ as a model of provocation. "He provoked people by loving those he wasn't supposed to love," Stokes-Buckles said. He challenged young adults to take the lead "at this critical junction of history."
Cliff Kindy, a member of Christian Peacemaker Teams, emphasized the need for people to stand up to "empires" that sacrifice the rest of the world for their purposes. "The Church of the Brethren has a different vision of the world that doesn't depend on diminishing or destroying other people," Kindy said. "It's a noble vision."
Jeff McAvoy and Carrie Fry-Miller performed a drama, interspersed with video clips, and Margo Miller-Royer closed the weekend with a series of reflections on relationships. That final service included a time of feetwashing.
Shawn Kirchner and Joseph Helfrich served as music leaders for the weekend; General Board staff members Becky Ullom and Walt Wiltschek were worship coordinators. The annual event is planned by the General Board's Youth and Young Adult Ministries office and its Young Adult Steering Committee.
Other features of the conference included "padare" workshops on a variety of topics, sharing time in small groups, a campfire, open mike coffeehouses, and an upbeat "joyful noise" singing session. An auction raised more than $200 for the General Board's Global Food Crisis Fund.
Source: 7/07/2005 Newsline
More than 130 young adults explored the art of provocation at this year's Church of the Brethren Young Adult Conference. The gathering May 27-29 at Camp Woodland Altars near Peebles, Ohio, had as its theme, "Provoking Love and Good Deeds," based on Hebrews 10:24.
Worship formed the heart of the conference, with three speakers and a service of drama and multimedia examining aspects of the theme. Young adult Jim Stokes-Buckles of Putney, Vt., in the opening service noted Jesus Christ as a model of provocation. "He provoked people by loving those he wasn't supposed to love," Stokes-Buckles said. He challenged young adults to take the lead "at this critical junction of history."
Cliff Kindy, a member of Christian Peacemaker Teams, emphasized the need for people to stand up to "empires" that sacrifice the rest of the world for their purposes. "The Church of the Brethren has a different vision of the world that doesn't depend on diminishing or destroying other people," Kindy said. "It's a noble vision."
Jeff McAvoy and Carrie Fry-Miller performed a drama, interspersed with video clips, and Margo Miller-Royer closed the weekend with a series of reflections on relationships. That final service included a time of feetwashing.
Shawn Kirchner and Joseph Helfrich served as music leaders for the weekend; General Board staff members Becky Ullom and Walt Wiltschek were worship coordinators. The annual event is planned by the General Board's Youth and Young Adult Ministries office and its Young Adult Steering Committee.
Other features of the conference included "padare" workshops on a variety of topics, sharing time in small groups, a campfire, open mike coffeehouses, and an upbeat "joyful noise" singing session. An auction raised more than $200 for the General Board's Global Food Crisis Fund.
Source: 7/07/2005 Newsline
Volunteers raise funds for Brethren hunger response.
A youth "walking workcamp" that walked some 100 miles to Peoria to attend Annual Conference also raised funds for the Global Food Crisis Fund and the General Board's Emergency Disaster Fund. The group received sponsorships of over $4,000.
Source: 7/07/2005 Newsline
A youth "walking workcamp" that walked some 100 miles to Peoria to attend Annual Conference also raised funds for the Global Food Crisis Fund and the General Board's Emergency Disaster Fund. The group received sponsorships of over $4,000.
Source: 7/07/2005 Newsline
Thursday, June 30, 2005
Young adults set an example
Many wondered what effect National Young Adult Conference (NYAC) would have on the young adult community within the Church of the Brethren. Would it begin to engage young adults on the fringes of church involvement? Could the whole church experience refreshment through the Spirit's movement in the young adult community?
Almost one year after NYAC, a gathering on Memorial Day weekend of 127 young adults provides an opportunity for reflection. Hebrews 10:24 provided the theme for the weekend of Young Adult Conference (YAC): “And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds....” Sharing in a weekend of worship and fellowship, the gathered community “was the church” in notable ways.
First, it would be difficult to label those in attendance. There were singles and married couples. There were college graduates and those who didn't attend college. There were “liberals” and “conservatives.” Eighteen-year-olds chatted with 30-year-olds, who engaged a 55-year-old speaker. An engineer, a retired Marine, a young mother, a newly engaged couple, and a teacher talked during small group time. Many grew up in the Church of the Brethren, but there was a recognizable group of people being invited into fellowship. Basically, women and men at various places on faith and life journeys had a get-together.
Second, worship was the weekend's focus. Between gathering on Friday night and scattering on Sunday afternoon, the group shared in four formal worship services and observed two ordinances, communion and feetwashing. Additionally, there were multiple Bible study sessions, as well as an old-fashioned hymn sing and a campfire. If the definition of worship is expanded to include times when God is experienced through fellowship, the list of informal worship opportunities includes meal times, workshops, and late-night board games.
And that's “just” it. A diverse group of people shared in worship and fellowship. Faith grew, minds were stretched, and hospitality was extended. Wounds were healed and relationships formed. The next verse of Hebrews reads: “...Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another...” We're instructed to provoke one another to love and good deeds, to meet together, and to encourage one another. Can the church experience refreshment through the Spirit's movement in the young adult community? Isn't the answer obvious?
Becky Ullom,
Director of Identity and Relations
Source: July/August 2005 Tapestry Newsletter
Many wondered what effect National Young Adult Conference (NYAC) would have on the young adult community within the Church of the Brethren. Would it begin to engage young adults on the fringes of church involvement? Could the whole church experience refreshment through the Spirit's movement in the young adult community?
Almost one year after NYAC, a gathering on Memorial Day weekend of 127 young adults provides an opportunity for reflection. Hebrews 10:24 provided the theme for the weekend of Young Adult Conference (YAC): “And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds....” Sharing in a weekend of worship and fellowship, the gathered community “was the church” in notable ways.
First, it would be difficult to label those in attendance. There were singles and married couples. There were college graduates and those who didn't attend college. There were “liberals” and “conservatives.” Eighteen-year-olds chatted with 30-year-olds, who engaged a 55-year-old speaker. An engineer, a retired Marine, a young mother, a newly engaged couple, and a teacher talked during small group time. Many grew up in the Church of the Brethren, but there was a recognizable group of people being invited into fellowship. Basically, women and men at various places on faith and life journeys had a get-together.
Second, worship was the weekend's focus. Between gathering on Friday night and scattering on Sunday afternoon, the group shared in four formal worship services and observed two ordinances, communion and feetwashing. Additionally, there were multiple Bible study sessions, as well as an old-fashioned hymn sing and a campfire. If the definition of worship is expanded to include times when God is experienced through fellowship, the list of informal worship opportunities includes meal times, workshops, and late-night board games.
And that's “just” it. A diverse group of people shared in worship and fellowship. Faith grew, minds were stretched, and hospitality was extended. Wounds were healed and relationships formed. The next verse of Hebrews reads: “...Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another...” We're instructed to provoke one another to love and good deeds, to meet together, and to encourage one another. Can the church experience refreshment through the Spirit's movement in the young adult community? Isn't the answer obvious?
Becky Ullom,
Director of Identity and Relations
Source: July/August 2005 Tapestry Newsletter
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Nominations for the 2005 Ecumenical Citations are announced.
Nominees for the 2005 Ecumenical Citations have been announced by the Committee on Interchurch Relations. The citations will be awarded at the Ecumenical Luncheon on Tuesday, July 5. Four youth and young adults are nominated for peacemaking efforts. "Each in their own way have demonstrated a dedication to work at overcoming violence, and can serve as a model for others in creative challenges to the many forms of violence in our world," the committee said.
Matt Boyer of La Verne (Calif.) Church of the Brethren, is nominated for his passion for social justice issues and Fair Trade. He refused to participate in a school fundraiser of chocolate that had been produced unjustly, did extensive research and advocacy of the Fair Trade movement, and led his church youth group in becoming a retailer of Fair Trade chocolates and coffee.
Colleen Hamilton of Hope Church of the Brethren in Freeport, Mich., is nominated for multiple efforts for the environment and global concerns, including helping to begin a recycling program at her high school, bringing focus to the use and waste of styrofoam in the school cafeteria, working and worshiping ecumenically with another congregation in the area, and participating in a high school arts troupe "HEARTS: Helping Educate Abstinence, Responsible Teens." She also was nominated for a citation from the Isaac Walton League for her efforts.
Marisa de Oliveira of Campo Limpo Preaching Point in Campo Limpo, Brazil, is nominated for her deep sense of justice and her call to share God's love with others through her work for hunger and women's and children's issues. She volunteers at a local soup kitchen, has begun a children's church and after-school tutoring program, and has developed and runs children's and women's programs in a poor and dangerous neighborhood of her city. The committee reported that de Oliveira moved to the neighborhood in order to establish rapport with the inhabitants. She teaches jewelry and craft-making to help generate income and self-esteem for neighborhood women, and plans a micro-finance project to help women buy materials and market their goods.
Anna Christine Simons of Prince of Peace Church of the Brethren in South Bend, Ind., is nominated for community involvements including working at a school for disadvantaged children, volunteering with the Youth Services Bureau of South Bend, participating yearly in her community's youth conference on diversity, taking part in anti-racism efforts through community programs, and volunteering at a local food bank, soup kitchen, and rescue mission. She received the 2004 Peacemaker Award from the Clay City High School.
For more information contact the Committee on Interchurch Relations, c/o the Office of the General Secretary, Church of the Brethren General Board, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120; 800-323-8039.
Source: 6/28/2005 Newsline
Nominees for the 2005 Ecumenical Citations have been announced by the Committee on Interchurch Relations. The citations will be awarded at the Ecumenical Luncheon on Tuesday, July 5. Four youth and young adults are nominated for peacemaking efforts. "Each in their own way have demonstrated a dedication to work at overcoming violence, and can serve as a model for others in creative challenges to the many forms of violence in our world," the committee said.
Matt Boyer of La Verne (Calif.) Church of the Brethren, is nominated for his passion for social justice issues and Fair Trade. He refused to participate in a school fundraiser of chocolate that had been produced unjustly, did extensive research and advocacy of the Fair Trade movement, and led his church youth group in becoming a retailer of Fair Trade chocolates and coffee.
Colleen Hamilton of Hope Church of the Brethren in Freeport, Mich., is nominated for multiple efforts for the environment and global concerns, including helping to begin a recycling program at her high school, bringing focus to the use and waste of styrofoam in the school cafeteria, working and worshiping ecumenically with another congregation in the area, and participating in a high school arts troupe "HEARTS: Helping Educate Abstinence, Responsible Teens." She also was nominated for a citation from the Isaac Walton League for her efforts.
Marisa de Oliveira of Campo Limpo Preaching Point in Campo Limpo, Brazil, is nominated for her deep sense of justice and her call to share God's love with others through her work for hunger and women's and children's issues. She volunteers at a local soup kitchen, has begun a children's church and after-school tutoring program, and has developed and runs children's and women's programs in a poor and dangerous neighborhood of her city. The committee reported that de Oliveira moved to the neighborhood in order to establish rapport with the inhabitants. She teaches jewelry and craft-making to help generate income and self-esteem for neighborhood women, and plans a micro-finance project to help women buy materials and market their goods.
Anna Christine Simons of Prince of Peace Church of the Brethren in South Bend, Ind., is nominated for community involvements including working at a school for disadvantaged children, volunteering with the Youth Services Bureau of South Bend, participating yearly in her community's youth conference on diversity, taking part in anti-racism efforts through community programs, and volunteering at a local food bank, soup kitchen, and rescue mission. She received the 2004 Peacemaker Award from the Clay City High School.
For more information contact the Committee on Interchurch Relations, c/o the Office of the General Secretary, Church of the Brethren General Board, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120; 800-323-8039.
Source: 6/28/2005 Newsline
Workcamp Walking to Peoria
A youth workcamp plans to accompany Don Vermilyea to Annual Conference on foot, arriving in Peoria on Saturday, July 2. Vermilyea is a Brethren Volunteer Service worker on a "Walk Across America," with the goal of walking to each Church of the Brethren congregation. The workcamp is sponsored by the General Board's Youth and Young Adult Ministries. A group of 12 youth and four adult advisors are walking with Vermilyea for a week, from June 26-July 2. The trip will take them to Camp Emmanuel in Astoria, Ill., and Canton (Ill.) Church of the Brethren along the way. Plans are for the group to be hosted as well by First Christian Church in Beardstown, First United Methodist Church in Havana, and Glasford United Methodist Church. The youth are raising money for the General Board's Global Food Crisis Fund and Emergency Disaster Fund. For more information about the Walk Across America see www.brethren.org/genbd/witness/Walk.html.
Source: 6/28/2005 Newsline
A youth workcamp plans to accompany Don Vermilyea to Annual Conference on foot, arriving in Peoria on Saturday, July 2. Vermilyea is a Brethren Volunteer Service worker on a "Walk Across America," with the goal of walking to each Church of the Brethren congregation. The workcamp is sponsored by the General Board's Youth and Young Adult Ministries. A group of 12 youth and four adult advisors are walking with Vermilyea for a week, from June 26-July 2. The trip will take them to Camp Emmanuel in Astoria, Ill., and Canton (Ill.) Church of the Brethren along the way. Plans are for the group to be hosted as well by First Christian Church in Beardstown, First United Methodist Church in Havana, and Glasford United Methodist Church. The youth are raising money for the General Board's Global Food Crisis Fund and Emergency Disaster Fund. For more information about the Walk Across America see www.brethren.org/genbd/witness/Walk.html.
Source: 6/28/2005 Newsline
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
National Council of Churches Stewards Program
The National Council of Churches (NCC) seeks young adult volunteers for its Stewards Program. Stewards will serve during the General Assembly of the NCC and Church World Service in Baltimore, Md., Nov. 8-10. This is the third year for the program, which gathers a small group of Christian young adults from across the country to assist in the work of the assembly and to observe ecumenism "up close" as some 250 delegates from 36 Protestant, Anglican, and Orthodox denominations gather for worship, business, and fellowship. Stewards assist with hospitality, registration, audio-visual technology, and other tasks. The experience includes a young adult spiritual development event. Stewards must be between the ages of 18 and 30 and have the recommendation of their denomination. Contact Chris Douglas at the General Board's Youth and Young Adult Ministries, cdouglas_gb@brethren.org or call 800-323-8039 ext. 297.
Source: 6/22/2005 Newsline
The National Council of Churches (NCC) seeks young adult volunteers for its Stewards Program. Stewards will serve during the General Assembly of the NCC and Church World Service in Baltimore, Md., Nov. 8-10. This is the third year for the program, which gathers a small group of Christian young adults from across the country to assist in the work of the assembly and to observe ecumenism "up close" as some 250 delegates from 36 Protestant, Anglican, and Orthodox denominations gather for worship, business, and fellowship. Stewards assist with hospitality, registration, audio-visual technology, and other tasks. The experience includes a young adult spiritual development event. Stewards must be between the ages of 18 and 30 and have the recommendation of their denomination. Contact Chris Douglas at the General Board's Youth and Young Adult Ministries, cdouglas_gb@brethren.org or call 800-323-8039 ext. 297.
Source: 6/22/2005 Newsline
Youth Pastor Meeting at Annual Conference
Youth pastors are invited to meet at Annual Conference in Peoria, Ill. Those who are serving as paid youth pastors in the Church of the Brethren are invited to a gathering of youth ministry professionals sponsored by the General Board's Youth and Young Adult Ministry Office on Monday, July 4, 1-2 p.m. in Room 201 of the Peoria Civic Center. This will be a time for networking, sharing, and learning to know others in the field of fulltime youth ministry.
Source: 6/22/2005 Newsline
Youth pastors are invited to meet at Annual Conference in Peoria, Ill. Those who are serving as paid youth pastors in the Church of the Brethren are invited to a gathering of youth ministry professionals sponsored by the General Board's Youth and Young Adult Ministry Office on Monday, July 4, 1-2 p.m. in Room 201 of the Peoria Civic Center. This will be a time for networking, sharing, and learning to know others in the field of fulltime youth ministry.
Source: 6/22/2005 Newsline
Susanna Farahat joins the staff of On Earth Peace.
On Earth Peace has announced that Susanna Farahat will join the staff in August as the new coordinator of Peacemaker Formation. She will oversee an extensive peace education program that serves all ages, with an emphasis on youth and young adults.
Farahat is a member of York Center Church of the Brethren in Lombard, Ill., and a recent graduate of Bryn Mawr College. She brings teaching experience and a strong sense of the educational process, along with a wide variety of community service experiences to the position. Farahat will be based at the New Windsor (Md.) office of On Earth Peace.
Kim Stuckey Hissong, the current coordinator of Peacemaker Formation, will begin graduate studies in social work this fall.
Source: 6/22/2005 Newsline
On Earth Peace has announced that Susanna Farahat will join the staff in August as the new coordinator of Peacemaker Formation. She will oversee an extensive peace education program that serves all ages, with an emphasis on youth and young adults.
Farahat is a member of York Center Church of the Brethren in Lombard, Ill., and a recent graduate of Bryn Mawr College. She brings teaching experience and a strong sense of the educational process, along with a wide variety of community service experiences to the position. Farahat will be based at the New Windsor (Md.) office of On Earth Peace.
Kim Stuckey Hissong, the current coordinator of Peacemaker Formation, will begin graduate studies in social work this fall.
Source: 6/22/2005 Newsline
Exploring Your Call event for youth will be held at Bethany Seminary.
Exploring Your Call, an event for high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors, will be held at Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Ind., on Aug. 4-9. The event is an opportunity for youth to consider issues of faith and vocation.
Remaining funds from a $2 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc.'s Theological Vocational Exploration Program Initiative, received by Manchester College on behalf of eight Brethren institutions, allow Bethany to offer the event for an additional year. Activities include classes taught by seminary professors, shadowing area pastors, planning and leading worship services, participating in hands-on ministry and service activities, and group-building recreational activities. Russell Haitch, assistant professor of Christian Education and director of the Institute for Ministry with Youth and Young Adults, will oversee the event.
Participants' only cost is travel expense to and from Richmond. Registration is limited to 20 participants. Begin the sign-up and registration process via e-mail by sending the following information to EYC@bethanyseminary.edu: name, address, telephone and alternate telephone, e-mail address, birthdate and age, home congregation, pastor, church telephone, person to notify in case of emergency and that person's relationship to the youth and their telephone and address. For more information e-mail EYC@bethanyseminary.edu or call 800-287-8822 ext. 1821.
Source: 6/22/2005 Newsline
Exploring Your Call, an event for high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors, will be held at Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Ind., on Aug. 4-9. The event is an opportunity for youth to consider issues of faith and vocation.
Remaining funds from a $2 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc.'s Theological Vocational Exploration Program Initiative, received by Manchester College on behalf of eight Brethren institutions, allow Bethany to offer the event for an additional year. Activities include classes taught by seminary professors, shadowing area pastors, planning and leading worship services, participating in hands-on ministry and service activities, and group-building recreational activities. Russell Haitch, assistant professor of Christian Education and director of the Institute for Ministry with Youth and Young Adults, will oversee the event.
Participants' only cost is travel expense to and from Richmond. Registration is limited to 20 participants. Begin the sign-up and registration process via e-mail by sending the following information to EYC@bethanyseminary.edu: name, address, telephone and alternate telephone, e-mail address, birthdate and age, home congregation, pastor, church telephone, person to notify in case of emergency and that person's relationship to the youth and their telephone and address. For more information e-mail EYC@bethanyseminary.edu or call 800-287-8822 ext. 1821.
Source: 6/22/2005 Newsline
Wednesday, May 25, 2005
General Board Welcomes Volunteers
The General Board is welcoming three young adult volunteers. Reid Merryman of Prince of Peace Church of the Brethren in South Bend, Ind., will work with the Youth and Young Adult Ministries Office as a summer workcamp assistant. Brethren Volunteer Service worker Emily Tyler of McPherson (Kan.) Church of the Brethren, begins June 1 as one of three coordinators of National Youth Conference 2006. Hannah Edwards, a Ministry Summer Service worker from Jackson Park Church of the Brethren in Jonesborough, Tenn., will serve half-time in General Board communications and half-time at Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin, Ill.
Source: 05/25/2005 Newsline
The General Board is welcoming three young adult volunteers. Reid Merryman of Prince of Peace Church of the Brethren in South Bend, Ind., will work with the Youth and Young Adult Ministries Office as a summer workcamp assistant. Brethren Volunteer Service worker Emily Tyler of McPherson (Kan.) Church of the Brethren, begins June 1 as one of three coordinators of National Youth Conference 2006. Hannah Edwards, a Ministry Summer Service worker from Jackson Park Church of the Brethren in Jonesborough, Tenn., will serve half-time in General Board communications and half-time at Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin, Ill.
Source: 05/25/2005 Newsline
Wednesday, May 11, 2005
Selective Service: Support and Networking Meeting at Annual Conference
On Earth Peace invites those thinking about not registering for the draft to a Support and Networking Meeting at Annual Conference in Peoria, Ill., on Sunday, July 3, at 5 p.m. The meeting will be held in Room 202 of the Peoria Civic Center. "Come to meet others who share your concerns and beliefs, find support from the church and from each other, and learn more about the options and consequences," invites On Earth Peace. The meeting is open to all who are interested, including families of youth who are considering nonregistration. For more information contact On Earth Peace co-executive director Bob Gross at bgross@igc.org or 260-982-7751.
Source: 5/11/2005 Newsline
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On Earth Peace invites those thinking about not registering for the draft to a Support and Networking Meeting at Annual Conference in Peoria, Ill., on Sunday, July 3, at 5 p.m. The meeting will be held in Room 202 of the Peoria Civic Center. "Come to meet others who share your concerns and beliefs, find support from the church and from each other, and learn more about the options and consequences," invites On Earth Peace. The meeting is open to all who are interested, including families of youth who are considering nonregistration. For more information contact On Earth Peace co-executive director Bob Gross at bgross@igc.org or 260-982-7751.
Source: 5/11/2005 Newsline
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Conscientious Objection Workshops
Workshops on conscientious objection are being held on Saturday, May 21: 9 a.m.-12 noon at New Covenant Church of the Brethren in Columbus, Ohio, with presenter Phil Jones of the General Board's Brethren Witness/Washington Office; and 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at York Center Church of the Brethren in Lombard, Ill., with presenter Bob Gross, co-executive director of On Earth Peace. For more information about the New Covenant workshop--whose sponsors include Ohio peace groups, Southern Ohio District of the Church of the Brethren, and West Ohio Conference of the United Methodist Church--call 614-763-0564 or see www.prayers4u.info. For more information about the York First event call 630-627-7411.
Source: 5/11/2005 Newsline
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Workshops on conscientious objection are being held on Saturday, May 21: 9 a.m.-12 noon at New Covenant Church of the Brethren in Columbus, Ohio, with presenter Phil Jones of the General Board's Brethren Witness/Washington Office; and 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at York Center Church of the Brethren in Lombard, Ill., with presenter Bob Gross, co-executive director of On Earth Peace. For more information about the New Covenant workshop--whose sponsors include Ohio peace groups, Southern Ohio District of the Church of the Brethren, and West Ohio Conference of the United Methodist Church--call 614-763-0564 or see www.prayers4u.info. For more information about the York First event call 630-627-7411.
Source: 5/11/2005 Newsline
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Regional Junior High Conference
A Regional Junior High Conference is planned for September 30-October 2 in New Windsor, Md., sponsored by On Earth Peace with eight districts and the General Board's Youth and Young Adult Ministry Office.
Source: 5/11/2005 Newsline
A Regional Junior High Conference is planned for September 30-October 2 in New Windsor, Md., sponsored by On Earth Peace with eight districts and the General Board's Youth and Young Adult Ministry Office.
Source: 5/11/2005 Newsline
Tuesday, May 10, 2005
Christian Citizenship Seminar focuses on conscientious objection.
By Walt Wiltschek
Nearly 100 senior high youth and advisors participated in this year's Church of the Brethren Christian Citizenship Seminar. The April 23-28 event, which began in New York and ended in Washington, D.C., focused on the topic of conscientious objection to war.
Speakers shared perspectives representing a wide range of viewpoints. Phil Jones, director of the General Board's Brethren Witness/Washington Office and one of the seminar's coordinators, said the program was designed to have youth "struggle with your head, your heart, and your spirit...the things that guide your conscience."
Former conscientious objectors (COs) Enten Pfaltzgraff Eller and Clarence Quay shared the stories of their struggles, as did more more recent COs Andrew Engdahl and Anita Cole. Eller and Quay each chose not to register and instead did alternative service, although Eller's service came after a lengthy court case. Engdahl and Cole arrived at their decisions after entering the military, and they asked for reclassification. "When Jesus said ‘Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,' that has to be now, not later," Eller said. "You have to struggle with where God is calling you and how you're going to follow."
Others, like Indiana pastor Jack Cary, offered a different voice: that of a church that strives for peace but is not pacifist. He said this stance is shared by many in the denomination. Representatives of Selective Service talked about their work to prepare for the eventuality of a military draft and provisions made for alternative service. They assured the group that "no one wants a draft." Center on Conscience and War director J.E. McNeil, meanwhile, said the peace churches must be concerned about such a possibility.
Several speakers addressed a different form of conscientious objection, war tax resistance. Phil and Louise Rieman of Indianapolis and Alice and Ron Martin-Adkins of Washington, D.C., explained why they had decided not to pay the portion of their taxes that support military operations--and the consequences that can come with that choice. Marian Franz of the National Peace Tax Fund provided additional background on this form of witness. "If we say that war is wrong, and we believe war is wrong, then why would we pay for it?" Louise Rieman said.
"It was more than I expected," said Chrissy Sollenberger, a youth participant from Annville, Pa. "I didn't think there was so much about conscientious objection to talk about. I just thought it was saying no to being drafted, but it's so much more than that.... It feels like we have more power now to make those choices."
The Christian Citizenship Seminar is held annually except in National Youth Conference years. It is sponsored by the General Board's Youth and Young Adult Ministry and Brethren Witness/Washington Office.
--Walt Wiltschek is a member of the General Board staff and editor of the Church of the Brethren "Messenger" magazine.
Source: 5/10/2005 Newsline
By Walt Wiltschek
Nearly 100 senior high youth and advisors participated in this year's Church of the Brethren Christian Citizenship Seminar. The April 23-28 event, which began in New York and ended in Washington, D.C., focused on the topic of conscientious objection to war.
Speakers shared perspectives representing a wide range of viewpoints. Phil Jones, director of the General Board's Brethren Witness/Washington Office and one of the seminar's coordinators, said the program was designed to have youth "struggle with your head, your heart, and your spirit...the things that guide your conscience."
Former conscientious objectors (COs) Enten Pfaltzgraff Eller and Clarence Quay shared the stories of their struggles, as did more more recent COs Andrew Engdahl and Anita Cole. Eller and Quay each chose not to register and instead did alternative service, although Eller's service came after a lengthy court case. Engdahl and Cole arrived at their decisions after entering the military, and they asked for reclassification. "When Jesus said ‘Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,' that has to be now, not later," Eller said. "You have to struggle with where God is calling you and how you're going to follow."
Others, like Indiana pastor Jack Cary, offered a different voice: that of a church that strives for peace but is not pacifist. He said this stance is shared by many in the denomination. Representatives of Selective Service talked about their work to prepare for the eventuality of a military draft and provisions made for alternative service. They assured the group that "no one wants a draft." Center on Conscience and War director J.E. McNeil, meanwhile, said the peace churches must be concerned about such a possibility.
Several speakers addressed a different form of conscientious objection, war tax resistance. Phil and Louise Rieman of Indianapolis and Alice and Ron Martin-Adkins of Washington, D.C., explained why they had decided not to pay the portion of their taxes that support military operations--and the consequences that can come with that choice. Marian Franz of the National Peace Tax Fund provided additional background on this form of witness. "If we say that war is wrong, and we believe war is wrong, then why would we pay for it?" Louise Rieman said.
"It was more than I expected," said Chrissy Sollenberger, a youth participant from Annville, Pa. "I didn't think there was so much about conscientious objection to talk about. I just thought it was saying no to being drafted, but it's so much more than that.... It feels like we have more power now to make those choices."
The Christian Citizenship Seminar is held annually except in National Youth Conference years. It is sponsored by the General Board's Youth and Young Adult Ministry and Brethren Witness/Washington Office.
--Walt Wiltschek is a member of the General Board staff and editor of the Church of the Brethren "Messenger" magazine.
Source: 5/10/2005 Newsline
Wednesday, May 04, 2005
CCS Report
From April 23—28, 2005, 98 youth, advisors, and staff attended Christian Citizenship Seminar. This year's topic was conscientious objection. Splitting time between New York and Washington D.C., participants had a chance to visit both the United Nations and their representatives in Congress.
From April 23—28, 2005, 98 youth, advisors, and staff attended Christian Citizenship Seminar. This year's topic was conscientious objection. Splitting time between New York and Washington D.C., participants had a chance to visit both the United Nations and their representatives in Congress.
Sunday, May 01, 2005
Conscientious Objection Workshop - May 21 - Lombard
On May 21, York Center Church of the Brethren (Lombard, Ill.) will host a workshop on conscientious objection, exploring the peace church tradition, the spiritual roots of these beliefs, and what the church would do if a draft were to occur. Times are 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., with morning and afternoon sessions and a break for lunch. Bob Gross, co-executive director of On Earth Peace will lead the session. Junior and senior high youth are invited, but parents and others who want to observe are welcome. The workshop is FREE except for lunch on your own. Youth are invited to stay for a lock-in afterwards. Call 630-627-7411 if you plan to attend.
On May 21, York Center Church of the Brethren (Lombard, Ill.) will host a workshop on conscientious objection, exploring the peace church tradition, the spiritual roots of these beliefs, and what the church would do if a draft were to occur. Times are 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., with morning and afternoon sessions and a break for lunch. Bob Gross, co-executive director of On Earth Peace will lead the session. Junior and senior high youth are invited, but parents and others who want to observe are welcome. The workshop is FREE except for lunch on your own. Youth are invited to stay for a lock-in afterwards. Call 630-627-7411 if you plan to attend.
2006 National Youth Conference
Plans are under way for district buses to National Youth Conference next summer. NYC will be July 22-27, 2006. It promises to be a fantastic week.
The theme is "Come and See." For more details see www.nyc2006.org.
Stay tuned to district publications and your mail for more information on the bus trip.
Plans are under way for district buses to National Youth Conference next summer. NYC will be July 22-27, 2006. It promises to be a fantastic week.
The theme is "Come and See." For more details see www.nyc2006.org.
Stay tuned to district publications and your mail for more information on the bus trip.
Youth Retreat Wrap-up
Eighteen senior high youth and advisors traveled north to Stanley, Wis., April 1-3 for this year's spring youth retreat. Stanley Church of the Brethren hosted the group, providing a place to sleep and meet, lots of donuts, a chance to participate in worship, and a delicious potluck meal. Youth from the Stanley church joined in for part of the weekend.
Jeff Neuman-Lee of Adel, Iowa, the keynote leader, worked with the national youth theme of "Seeing God" from 1 John 4. Jeff focused on issues of leadership, how we can be the church, and led the youth in a Saturday evening time of worship.
The group went swimming at the local high school, played games, joined in Sunday school, and made new connections with our neighbors to the north. The next retreat will be during district conference, Nov. 4-6 at Springfield Church of the Brethren.
We are looking for new youth cabinet members for next year. If you'll be in grades 9-12 this fall, ask your pastor for an application form or go to www.cobyouth.org.
Eighteen senior high youth and advisors traveled north to Stanley, Wis., April 1-3 for this year's spring youth retreat. Stanley Church of the Brethren hosted the group, providing a place to sleep and meet, lots of donuts, a chance to participate in worship, and a delicious potluck meal. Youth from the Stanley church joined in for part of the weekend.
Jeff Neuman-Lee of Adel, Iowa, the keynote leader, worked with the national youth theme of "Seeing God" from 1 John 4. Jeff focused on issues of leadership, how we can be the church, and led the youth in a Saturday evening time of worship.
The group went swimming at the local high school, played games, joined in Sunday school, and made new connections with our neighbors to the north. The next retreat will be during district conference, Nov. 4-6 at Springfield Church of the Brethren.
We are looking for new youth cabinet members for next year. If you'll be in grades 9-12 this fall, ask your pastor for an application form or go to www.cobyouth.org.
Wednesday, April 27, 2005
Exploring Your Call Event - Aug. 4-7
During a meeting of the Bethany Theological Seminary Board of Trustees, the Academic Affairs Committee discussed ways to increase the number of fulltime graduate students, learned that the Advanced Foundations for Church Leadership program of the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership has enrolled a new cohort group of ten people, and has received several proposals for the Vital Pastor Program. The committee also heard a report on plans for an Exploring Your Call Event for high school youth, administered by the Institute for Ministry with Youth and Young Adults, which will take place Aug. 4-7.
Source: 04/27/2005 Newsline
During a meeting of the Bethany Theological Seminary Board of Trustees, the Academic Affairs Committee discussed ways to increase the number of fulltime graduate students, learned that the Advanced Foundations for Church Leadership program of the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership has enrolled a new cohort group of ten people, and has received several proposals for the Vital Pastor Program. The committee also heard a report on plans for an Exploring Your Call Event for high school youth, administered by the Institute for Ministry with Youth and Young Adults, which will take place Aug. 4-7.
Source: 04/27/2005 Newsline
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