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
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
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
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
Youth Peace Travel Team
Members of the Youth Peace Travel Team have been chosen for the summer of 2006. Four young adult women were chosen from the field of applicants to travel to youth camps throughout the Church of the Brethren. The goal of the team’s work is to talk with other young people about the Christian message and the Brethren tradition of peacemaking. Team members will be Corinne Lipscomb, a Manchester College student from Springfield (Ill.) Church of the Brethren; Christina McPherson, a McPherson (Kan.) College student from Boise Valley Church of the Brethren in Meridian, Idaho; Margaret Bortner, a Lycoming College student from Palmyra (Pa.) Church of the Brethren; and Karen Duhai, an Elizabethtown (Pa.) College student from Bedford (Pa.) Church of the Brethren. The team is sponsored by On Earth Peace, the Outdoor Ministries Association, and the Church of the Brethren General Board’s Youth and Young Adult Ministry Office, Brethren Witness/Washington Office, and Brethren Volunteer Service.
Members of the Youth Peace Travel Team have been chosen for the summer of 2006. Four young adult women were chosen from the field of applicants to travel to youth camps throughout the Church of the Brethren. The goal of the team’s work is to talk with other young people about the Christian message and the Brethren tradition of peacemaking. Team members will be Corinne Lipscomb, a Manchester College student from Springfield (Ill.) Church of the Brethren; Christina McPherson, a McPherson (Kan.) College student from Boise Valley Church of the Brethren in Meridian, Idaho; Margaret Bortner, a Lycoming College student from Palmyra (Pa.) Church of the Brethren; and Karen Duhai, an Elizabethtown (Pa.) College student from Bedford (Pa.) Church of the Brethren. The team is sponsored by On Earth Peace, the Outdoor Ministries Association, and the Church of the Brethren General Board’s Youth and Young Adult Ministry Office, Brethren Witness/Washington Office, and Brethren Volunteer Service.
Monday, February 27, 2006
McPherson RYC
Registration deadline for Regional Youth Conference at McPherson (Kan.) College is March 1. The event, scheduled for March 31-April 2, is one of several RYCs to be hosted this spring by Church of the Brethren colleges. High school-age youth may register online at www.mcpherson.edu, click on “Calendar” to find the RYC listing. The website also features the schedule for the event and other information. The planning team for the conference represents Western Plains District, Northern Plains District, and Idaho District.
Registration deadline for Regional Youth Conference at McPherson (Kan.) College is March 1. The event, scheduled for March 31-April 2, is one of several RYCs to be hosted this spring by Church of the Brethren colleges. High school-age youth may register online at www.mcpherson.edu, click on “Calendar” to find the RYC listing. The website also features the schedule for the event and other information. The planning team for the conference represents Western Plains District, Northern Plains District, and Idaho District.
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Embracing ecumenism: One young adult's journey
People come to ecumenism in different ways. Some grow up immersed in it. Some encounter it via a particular, momentous experience. Others come to an understanding of it gradually.
by Walt Wiltschek
People come to ecumenism in different ways. Some grow up immersed in it. Some encounter it via a particular, momentous experience. Others come to an understanding of it gradually.
For Sara Faulhafer, a 28-year-old member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada, the lessons of ecumenism came through seminary. When she began studies at Waterloo Lutheran Seminary in Ontario two years ago, she encountered a very diverse student body.
Only 40 percent of the students there are actually Lutheran. The rest come from a variety of Protestant bodies and from other traditions, including Unitarians and Buddhists. Worship is held there each week, and this year the seminary administrators decided to reflect the students' diversity in worship. Ecumenical speakers come in regularly and help the students plan a week's worth of services from a specific tradition.
As part of that ecumenical effort, a delegation from World Council of Churches member churches visited the seminary last spring. They talked about the upcoming 9th Assembly in Brazil and about the stewards' programme for young people. That caught Faulhafer's interest.
She was worried about missing several weeks of classes, but the faculty quickly put those worries to rest. "The professors were all very supportive," Faulhafer recalls. "They said, 'Just go! It's a once in a lifetime opportunity. Forget about school!'"
And so a few weeks ago, she found herself in Porto Alegre, joining with about 150 other stewards who aid the operation of the Assembly while learning about ecumenical life, as well as numerous youth delegates, interns and others.
"I really wasn't sure what to expect", she said. "Pretty much everyone I talked to said it was going to be life-changing. It's just been phenomenal."
She found herself making friends from all corners of the world during the youth pre-Assembly event. They heard from speakers, studied the Bible together, discussed issues and planned for the Assembly ahead. They worked on topics of special interest to them to be covered in ecumenical conversations - in Faulhafer's case, on women's issues in the church.
A highlight of the event, she said, was when a group of African youth led singing and taught the group a dance. There was no rehearsal, no formality - just an invitation to get up and try it. "The whole room was praising God," she said. "It was amazing".
Very quickly, Faulhafer felt at home. She said the design of the programme, bringing the youth together first to build friendships and become oriented in a smaller group, works well. Only four members from her church came to the Assembly, so developing other connections has been important to her.
"I think the stewards have a different experience than a lot of the delegates", she said. "We're here for the pre-Assembly and live together. We've really grown into a strong community fast."
Smiling, she adds, "It's good to be able to walk into the worship tent or plenary hall and have a half-dozen people recognize your face, and also to be able to reflect together on our experience here. It's so fast-paced and so intense."
The ecumenical conversations have been Faulhafer's favourite part of the agenda. Her work as a steward has been focused on the worship tent, where she helps to prepare for morning and evening prayers each day, hands out sheets with the order of the service and answers questions.
She has been heavily involved with the youth striving to make their voices heard in the Assembly. She found other young people, like her, passionate about ecumenism and determined to be involved in more than "bit parts" or purely supporting roles. They are committed to having their age group and perspectives fairly represented on the WCC central committee and in other leadership positions.
Faulhafer has made careful plans to take this first-hand experience of global ecumenism back with her to Canada. She has been keeping an online blog from the Assembly so that her church and the seminary community may keep up with her reflections. Several congregations have already asked her to do presentations when she returns home, and she plans to do a programme at the seminary, as well.
She is also seeking to get something placed to the agenda of her synod convention this summer, and plans are in the works to do something with other Canadians who have come to Porto Alegre at a Canadian Council of Churches justice festival for young adults occurring in August.
For Sara, ecumenism is here to stay.
"Long-term, it's definitely going to shape my ministry", said Falhaufer, reflecting on the Assembly experience. "I want to become further involved with the WCC or other local ecumenical initiatives - in both, hopefully. It's something I'm going to draw on the rest of my life."
Walt Wiltschek is editor of Messenger, the denominational magazine of the Church of the Brethren. An ordained minister, he lives in St. Charles, Ill., in the United States.
People come to ecumenism in different ways. Some grow up immersed in it. Some encounter it via a particular, momentous experience. Others come to an understanding of it gradually.
by Walt Wiltschek
People come to ecumenism in different ways. Some grow up immersed in it. Some encounter it via a particular, momentous experience. Others come to an understanding of it gradually.
For Sara Faulhafer, a 28-year-old member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada, the lessons of ecumenism came through seminary. When she began studies at Waterloo Lutheran Seminary in Ontario two years ago, she encountered a very diverse student body.
Only 40 percent of the students there are actually Lutheran. The rest come from a variety of Protestant bodies and from other traditions, including Unitarians and Buddhists. Worship is held there each week, and this year the seminary administrators decided to reflect the students' diversity in worship. Ecumenical speakers come in regularly and help the students plan a week's worth of services from a specific tradition.
As part of that ecumenical effort, a delegation from World Council of Churches member churches visited the seminary last spring. They talked about the upcoming 9th Assembly in Brazil and about the stewards' programme for young people. That caught Faulhafer's interest.
She was worried about missing several weeks of classes, but the faculty quickly put those worries to rest. "The professors were all very supportive," Faulhafer recalls. "They said, 'Just go! It's a once in a lifetime opportunity. Forget about school!'"
And so a few weeks ago, she found herself in Porto Alegre, joining with about 150 other stewards who aid the operation of the Assembly while learning about ecumenical life, as well as numerous youth delegates, interns and others.
"I really wasn't sure what to expect", she said. "Pretty much everyone I talked to said it was going to be life-changing. It's just been phenomenal."
She found herself making friends from all corners of the world during the youth pre-Assembly event. They heard from speakers, studied the Bible together, discussed issues and planned for the Assembly ahead. They worked on topics of special interest to them to be covered in ecumenical conversations - in Faulhafer's case, on women's issues in the church.
A highlight of the event, she said, was when a group of African youth led singing and taught the group a dance. There was no rehearsal, no formality - just an invitation to get up and try it. "The whole room was praising God," she said. "It was amazing".
Very quickly, Faulhafer felt at home. She said the design of the programme, bringing the youth together first to build friendships and become oriented in a smaller group, works well. Only four members from her church came to the Assembly, so developing other connections has been important to her.
"I think the stewards have a different experience than a lot of the delegates", she said. "We're here for the pre-Assembly and live together. We've really grown into a strong community fast."
Smiling, she adds, "It's good to be able to walk into the worship tent or plenary hall and have a half-dozen people recognize your face, and also to be able to reflect together on our experience here. It's so fast-paced and so intense."
The ecumenical conversations have been Faulhafer's favourite part of the agenda. Her work as a steward has been focused on the worship tent, where she helps to prepare for morning and evening prayers each day, hands out sheets with the order of the service and answers questions.
She has been heavily involved with the youth striving to make their voices heard in the Assembly. She found other young people, like her, passionate about ecumenism and determined to be involved in more than "bit parts" or purely supporting roles. They are committed to having their age group and perspectives fairly represented on the WCC central committee and in other leadership positions.
Faulhafer has made careful plans to take this first-hand experience of global ecumenism back with her to Canada. She has been keeping an online blog from the Assembly so that her church and the seminary community may keep up with her reflections. Several congregations have already asked her to do presentations when she returns home, and she plans to do a programme at the seminary, as well.
She is also seeking to get something placed to the agenda of her synod convention this summer, and plans are in the works to do something with other Canadians who have come to Porto Alegre at a Canadian Council of Churches justice festival for young adults occurring in August.
For Sara, ecumenism is here to stay.
"Long-term, it's definitely going to shape my ministry", said Falhaufer, reflecting on the Assembly experience. "I want to become further involved with the WCC or other local ecumenical initiatives - in both, hopefully. It's something I'm going to draw on the rest of my life."
Walt Wiltschek is editor of Messenger, the denominational magazine of the Church of the Brethren. An ordained minister, he lives in St. Charles, Ill., in the United States.
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Roundtable Youth Conference
The annual Roundtable youth conference will be held March 31-April 2 at Bridgewater (Va.) College. The theme is "Shine." Walt Wiltschek will be the guest speaker and Covenant Players will provide Friday night's entertainment. For more information contact Shenandoah District Office at 540-234-8555, or Virlina District Office, 540-362-1816.
The annual Roundtable youth conference will be held March 31-April 2 at Bridgewater (Va.) College. The theme is "Shine." Walt Wiltschek will be the guest speaker and Covenant Players will provide Friday night's entertainment. For more information contact Shenandoah District Office at 540-234-8555, or Virlina District Office, 540-362-1816.
Monday, January 23, 2006
Adult Christian Citizenship Seminar Scheduled by Brethren Witness/Washington Office
(Jan. 23, 2006) -- The Brethren Witness/Washington Office has announced an Adult Christian Citizenship Seminar to be held May 6-11 in New York City and Washington, D.C., on the theme, “Healthcare for a Hurting World.” The event for adults is a counterpart to the Christian Citizenship Seminar offered for high school-age youth.
“Plan now to join as we explore the injustices of inadequate healthcare worldwide, and how a flawed healthcare system in the United States affects us all,” the office said in its January 2006 Witness to Washington newsletter.
Participants will arrive in New York on Saturday, May 6, where they will hear speakers, participate in worship, and visit the United Nations. On Tuesday, May 9, the group will travel to Washington, D.C., where they will meet with healthcare experts, share in sessions, sightsee, and participate in direct advocacy on Capitol Hill.
Cost is $350. To register call 800-785-3246. For more information about the Brethren Witness/Washington Office see www.brethren.org/genbd/WitnessWashOffice.html.
(Jan. 23, 2006) -- The Brethren Witness/Washington Office has announced an Adult Christian Citizenship Seminar to be held May 6-11 in New York City and Washington, D.C., on the theme, “Healthcare for a Hurting World.” The event for adults is a counterpart to the Christian Citizenship Seminar offered for high school-age youth.
“Plan now to join as we explore the injustices of inadequate healthcare worldwide, and how a flawed healthcare system in the United States affects us all,” the office said in its January 2006 Witness to Washington newsletter.
Participants will arrive in New York on Saturday, May 6, where they will hear speakers, participate in worship, and visit the United Nations. On Tuesday, May 9, the group will travel to Washington, D.C., where they will meet with healthcare experts, share in sessions, sightsee, and participate in direct advocacy on Capitol Hill.
Cost is $350. To register call 800-785-3246. For more information about the Brethren Witness/Washington Office see www.brethren.org/genbd/WitnessWashOffice.html.
Monday, January 16, 2006
Young Adult Conference 2006
Young Adult Conference 2006, sponsored by Youth and Young Adult Ministries, will be held May 26-28 at Camp Swatara in Bethel, Pa. The event is for young adults ages 18-35; registration for the conference is now open online at www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/yac.htm
Young Adult Conference 2006, sponsored by Youth and Young Adult Ministries, will be held May 26-28 at Camp Swatara in Bethel, Pa. The event is for young adults ages 18-35; registration for the conference is now open online at www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/yac.htm
Thursday, January 12, 2006
NYC Ultimate Tournament in Question
There is question whether the Church of the Brethren Credit Union (COBCU) is going to be able to provide the tournament for the youth after all, and if it is something that NYC might want to and be able to do itself. COBCU is still working on the issue, but for the meantime they’ve taken if off their website.
There is question whether the Church of the Brethren Credit Union (COBCU) is going to be able to provide the tournament for the youth after all, and if it is something that NYC might want to and be able to do itself. COBCU is still working on the issue, but for the meantime they’ve taken if off their website.
National Youth Cabinet issues ‘NYC Tithe Challenge’
Special offering to support the Global Food Crisis Fund
At its fall meeting, the National Youth Cabinet decided to plan several events at NYC that focus on global hunger. Millions of children, youth, and adults around the world are suffering, and we are called - as people of God - to work to end their suffering. We believe that the youth of the church can take the lead in responding to hunger, and we can begin with NYC.
In an effort to kick-start our efforts to alleviate hunger before NYC, the National Youth Cabinet is issuing a challenge to all youth groups attending NYC 2006 to tithe their fundraising efforts toward the Church of the Brethren Global Food Crisis Fund offering. We will have a special collection for the tithe money during the offering time designated for the Global Food Crisis Fund. If you do not wish to carry this money to NYC, we will also accept donations in the NYC Office that are marked specifically for the NYC Tithe Challenge.
Tithing is a spiritual practice that is a part of how we can live out our faith and demonstrate our devotion to God over possessions. The average cost for a NYC participant, including travel is around $800. If a youth group of 10 people was willing to tithe 10% of that cost, then they could give $800! If every participant tithed just their registration fee, then we could contribute $160,000 toward hunger relief!
We understand that it is hard work raising money to even attend NYC and that the thought of raising 10% more to contribute to this fund is asking a lot. But the National Youth Cabinet also wants to challenge the youth of this denomination to not only work toward serving ourselves, but to be intentional about serving others.
It is the hope of the Cabinet that you will take seriously the challenge to tithe as a spiritual practice and as a way of making a difference in the life of someone less fortunate.
If you choose to take on this challenge, please contact our office so that we may recognize your efforts on our website, as well as hold you in prayer as you continue to work toward your goal!
Special offering to support the Global Food Crisis Fund
At its fall meeting, the National Youth Cabinet decided to plan several events at NYC that focus on global hunger. Millions of children, youth, and adults around the world are suffering, and we are called - as people of God - to work to end their suffering. We believe that the youth of the church can take the lead in responding to hunger, and we can begin with NYC.
In an effort to kick-start our efforts to alleviate hunger before NYC, the National Youth Cabinet is issuing a challenge to all youth groups attending NYC 2006 to tithe their fundraising efforts toward the Church of the Brethren Global Food Crisis Fund offering. We will have a special collection for the tithe money during the offering time designated for the Global Food Crisis Fund. If you do not wish to carry this money to NYC, we will also accept donations in the NYC Office that are marked specifically for the NYC Tithe Challenge.Tithing is a spiritual practice that is a part of how we can live out our faith and demonstrate our devotion to God over possessions. The average cost for a NYC participant, including travel is around $800. If a youth group of 10 people was willing to tithe 10% of that cost, then they could give $800! If every participant tithed just their registration fee, then we could contribute $160,000 toward hunger relief!
We understand that it is hard work raising money to even attend NYC and that the thought of raising 10% more to contribute to this fund is asking a lot. But the National Youth Cabinet also wants to challenge the youth of this denomination to not only work toward serving ourselves, but to be intentional about serving others.
It is the hope of the Cabinet that you will take seriously the challenge to tithe as a spiritual practice and as a way of making a difference in the life of someone less fortunate.
If you choose to take on this challenge, please contact our office so that we may recognize your efforts on our website, as well as hold you in prayer as you continue to work toward your goal!
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
Registration closes soon for Cross-Cultural Celebration.
Registrations are due Jan. 15 for the annual Cross-Cultural Consultation and Celebration sponsored by the Church of the Brethren Cross Cultural Ministries Team and the Congregational Life Teams of the General Board. The event will be held May 4-7 in Lancaster, Pa., on the theme, "Built Together, the Household of God" from Ephesians 2:17-22.
Plans for the consultation include daily worship in a variety of traditions, Bible study, discussion groups, and prayer circles, with the Friday evening service May 5 featuring bread and cup communion. Sessions are planned on anti-racism, the Annual Conference Intercultural Study Committee, and Disaster Child Care. A new option this year is a work project on Saturday afternoon May 6. Also on Saturday, area youth are invited to participate in special events including a session for conversation between youth and consultation participants on their vision and plans for the future.
There is no registration fee for the event. Free-will offerings will be taken to help cover some expenses. The General Board will provide travel assistance for one to two people per congregation. Lodging is available with host families or participants may make other arrangements at their own expense. Registration information is available in English and Spanish. To register go to www.brethren.org and follow keyword links to "Cross Cultural Ministries." For more information call Duane Grady at 800-505-1596.
Source: 1/4/2006 Newsline
Registrations are due Jan. 15 for the annual Cross-Cultural Consultation and Celebration sponsored by the Church of the Brethren Cross Cultural Ministries Team and the Congregational Life Teams of the General Board. The event will be held May 4-7 in Lancaster, Pa., on the theme, "Built Together, the Household of God" from Ephesians 2:17-22.
Plans for the consultation include daily worship in a variety of traditions, Bible study, discussion groups, and prayer circles, with the Friday evening service May 5 featuring bread and cup communion. Sessions are planned on anti-racism, the Annual Conference Intercultural Study Committee, and Disaster Child Care. A new option this year is a work project on Saturday afternoon May 6. Also on Saturday, area youth are invited to participate in special events including a session for conversation between youth and consultation participants on their vision and plans for the future.
There is no registration fee for the event. Free-will offerings will be taken to help cover some expenses. The General Board will provide travel assistance for one to two people per congregation. Lodging is available with host families or participants may make other arrangements at their own expense. Registration information is available in English and Spanish. To register go to www.brethren.org and follow keyword links to "Cross Cultural Ministries." For more information call Duane Grady at 800-505-1596.
Source: 1/4/2006 Newsline
The New Community Project Learning Tours
The New Community Project, a Brethren-related nonprofit organization, has announced its schedule of Learning Tours for the coming year. The trips are open to all ages, with some scholarship aid for youth and young adults. Learning Tours are designed to increase understanding, deepen faith, build relationships, and show solidarity with God's people and God's creation. Upcoming trips include: El Salvador/Guatemala, Mar. 1-11, cost $600; Guatemala, May 18-30, $500; "Cancer Alley" Louisiana, May 28-31, $350; Honduras, June 19-29, $625; Denali/Kenai Fjords National Parks, Alaska, Aug. 12-21, $500; Arctic Village, Alaska, Aug. 22-30, $800; Nepal, Oct. 16-27, $700; Sudan, Jan. 8-24, $1,300. Costs do not include airfare. Visit www.newcommunityproject.org for more information, or contact New Community Project director David Radcliff at 718 Wilder St., Elgin, IL 60123; 888-800-2985; dradcliff@newcommunityproject.org.
Source: 1/4/2006 Newsline
The New Community Project, a Brethren-related nonprofit organization, has announced its schedule of Learning Tours for the coming year. The trips are open to all ages, with some scholarship aid for youth and young adults. Learning Tours are designed to increase understanding, deepen faith, build relationships, and show solidarity with God's people and God's creation. Upcoming trips include: El Salvador/Guatemala, Mar. 1-11, cost $600; Guatemala, May 18-30, $500; "Cancer Alley" Louisiana, May 28-31, $350; Honduras, June 19-29, $625; Denali/Kenai Fjords National Parks, Alaska, Aug. 12-21, $500; Arctic Village, Alaska, Aug. 22-30, $800; Nepal, Oct. 16-27, $700; Sudan, Jan. 8-24, $1,300. Costs do not include airfare. Visit www.newcommunityproject.org for more information, or contact New Community Project director David Radcliff at 718 Wilder St., Elgin, IL 60123; 888-800-2985; dradcliff@newcommunityproject.org.
Source: 1/4/2006 Newsline
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
Pizza, conscientious objection bring youth together in Denver.
On Dec. 2-3, a group of 25 students and eight sponsors gathered in Denver, Colo., to discuss peacemaking and conscientious objection to military service. Male and female youth from Church of the Brethren and Mennonite congregations in Denver, Colorado Springs, Arvada, Lakewood, Fort Collins, and Littleton gathered for an event called "Pizza and Justice: Considering Conscientious Objection."
Peacemakers packets were available for youth to consider filling out to document their beliefs. Erin Durban of the American Friends Service Committee described current requirements for military registration, prompting questions and discussion about the potential for a military draft. The draft was simulated by a lottery system: those whose birthdays were randomly assigned lower numbers were given clean-up chores.
The 1987 movie "Good Morning, Vietnam" stimulated discussion about comparisons between Vietnam and Iraq, press coverage and censorship, trust and betrayal, and being insulated from the atrocity of war. Participants discussed risk taking, reflecting on risks that those in the military take and the risks taken by the four members of Christian Peacemaker Teams who had been kidnaped in Iraq one week earlier.
Participants focused on positive and creative peacemaking, brainstorming a "Shalom Whirlybird" of ways to foster right relationships with God, self, others, and the environment. A peace quiz challenged participants to identify key events and statements about peace and justice. Small groups studied and analyzed passages of scripture comparing Jesus' teachings with cultural norms today. Each group then gave a presentation on what peacemaking might look like in their everyday journey, based on their passage. One concluded that it was "interesting to see other views and other youth be passionate about these issues."
The event closed with worship and silent reflection. Youth will now decide how to document their beliefs. While many participants said that the event answered many questions, there were still more questions, and a lot of interest in following up with another event.
Many of the participants attend historic peace churches in Colorado, some of which were begun when persons doing alternative service in Colorado decided to stay in the state. Mennonite Urban Ministries, a Denver faith-based organization, sponsored the event. For more information, contact Gail Erisman Valeta at 303-892-6416.
Source: 12/21/2005 Newsline
On Dec. 2-3, a group of 25 students and eight sponsors gathered in Denver, Colo., to discuss peacemaking and conscientious objection to military service. Male and female youth from Church of the Brethren and Mennonite congregations in Denver, Colorado Springs, Arvada, Lakewood, Fort Collins, and Littleton gathered for an event called "Pizza and Justice: Considering Conscientious Objection."
Peacemakers packets were available for youth to consider filling out to document their beliefs. Erin Durban of the American Friends Service Committee described current requirements for military registration, prompting questions and discussion about the potential for a military draft. The draft was simulated by a lottery system: those whose birthdays were randomly assigned lower numbers were given clean-up chores.
The 1987 movie "Good Morning, Vietnam" stimulated discussion about comparisons between Vietnam and Iraq, press coverage and censorship, trust and betrayal, and being insulated from the atrocity of war. Participants discussed risk taking, reflecting on risks that those in the military take and the risks taken by the four members of Christian Peacemaker Teams who had been kidnaped in Iraq one week earlier.
Participants focused on positive and creative peacemaking, brainstorming a "Shalom Whirlybird" of ways to foster right relationships with God, self, others, and the environment. A peace quiz challenged participants to identify key events and statements about peace and justice. Small groups studied and analyzed passages of scripture comparing Jesus' teachings with cultural norms today. Each group then gave a presentation on what peacemaking might look like in their everyday journey, based on their passage. One concluded that it was "interesting to see other views and other youth be passionate about these issues."
The event closed with worship and silent reflection. Youth will now decide how to document their beliefs. While many participants said that the event answered many questions, there were still more questions, and a lot of interest in following up with another event.
Many of the participants attend historic peace churches in Colorado, some of which were begun when persons doing alternative service in Colorado decided to stay in the state. Mennonite Urban Ministries, a Denver faith-based organization, sponsored the event. For more information, contact Gail Erisman Valeta at 303-892-6416.
Source: 12/21/2005 Newsline
Young Adult Conference planned for May 2006.
Young Adult Conference 2006 will be held May 26-28 at Camp Swatara in Bethel, Pa. The event is sponsored by the Youth and Young Adult Ministries of the Church of the Brethren General Board, for young adults ages 18-35.
Speakers for the conference include Paul Grout, a former moderator of Annual Conference; Marlys Hershberger, pastor of Hollidaysburg (Pa.) Church of the Brethren; Hannah Serfling, who has been a member of the National Youth Cabinet and one of the two youth speech contest winners at National Youth Conference 2002; and Craig Smith, executive minister of Atlantic Northeast District.
Registration for the conference is now open online at www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/yac.htm. Cost is $80 prior to May 1, $100 from May 1-25, and $110 after May 26. At participants' request, the organizers will send a letter to home congregations asking them to provide a $50 scholarship.
Source: 12/21/2005 Newsline
Young Adult Conference 2006 will be held May 26-28 at Camp Swatara in Bethel, Pa. The event is sponsored by the Youth and Young Adult Ministries of the Church of the Brethren General Board, for young adults ages 18-35.
Speakers for the conference include Paul Grout, a former moderator of Annual Conference; Marlys Hershberger, pastor of Hollidaysburg (Pa.) Church of the Brethren; Hannah Serfling, who has been a member of the National Youth Cabinet and one of the two youth speech contest winners at National Youth Conference 2002; and Craig Smith, executive minister of Atlantic Northeast District.
Registration for the conference is now open online at www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/yac.htm. Cost is $80 prior to May 1, $100 from May 1-25, and $110 after May 26. At participants' request, the organizers will send a letter to home congregations asking them to provide a $50 scholarship.
Source: 12/21/2005 Newsline
Anabaptist leaders meet to discuss alternative service.
By Todd Flory
The Council of Moderators and General Secretaries (COMS) of Anabaptist denominations held an annual meeting at Washington (D.C.) City Church of the Brethren Dec. 1-3. Hosted by the Brethren Witness/Washington Office and the Washington Office of Mennonite Central Committee US (MCC), the group represented the Church of the Brethren, the Mennonite Church USA, the Brethren in Christ Church, the Conservative Mennonite Conference, and the Mennonite Brethren USA.
Washington was selected as the site for the meeting to facilitate and continue discussions with members of Congress and the Selective Service. The meeting follows a consultation on alternative service sponsored by COMS in March.
A portion of the meeting focused on the issues of alternative service and the potential of a military draft. In other meetings, the group met with leaders of the Faith-Based Initiative for the White House, the National Association of Evangelicals, the National Campaign for a Peace Tax Fund, and staff of Rep. Charles Rangel (D-NY), who proposed a draft bill in Jan. 2003 that was almost unanimously defeated. Emile Milne, Rangel's foreign policy legislative director, said he had heard many groups talk about the draft but the Church of the Brethren and COMS were the only religious groups to come to the representative's office in person to talk about it.
Richard Flahavan and Cassandra Costley from the Selective Service System spoke regarding the potential of a military draft. "When you read the signs, you can see there's really no secret plan to fire up the draft," Flahavan said. "You can all be confident it's not going to happen." Costley said that she has had numerous meetings with various peace churches to work out guidelines for alternative service if a draft is implemented. "We welcome any assistance from religious organizations in finding suitable employment for these conscientious objectors," she said.
Not everyone was as certain that a draft will not occur. "We have all the elements of a perfect storm, and all we need is a butterfly flutter," said J.E. McNeil, executive director of the Center on Conscience and War. McNeil said she believes that President Bush might implement a draft if he thought it would pass through Congress. "'We have no choice,' that's the phrase he's going to have to use to sell it." Theo Sitther, lobbyist for CCW, added, "No one in the administration is talking about a draft, but people in the Pentagon are."
COMS discussed a contingency plan for a military draft, led by MCC staff Rolando Santiago and Titus Peachey. A report of issues, questions, and recommendations was presented, developed by Del Hershberger, director of Christian Service for Mennonite Mission Network; Dan McFadden, director of Brethren Volunteer Service; and Peachey, director of Peace Education for MCC. Issues included alternative service placements, support for registrants, staying in relationship with soldiers, relationship to government and Selective Service, and collaboration with other historic peace churches and the CCW. Each representative at the COMS meeting will discuss the plan with his denomination and report in the spring.
COMS also met with Richard Cizik, vice-president for Governmental Affairs for the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE), which has been working on issues such as the conflict in Darfur, prison rape, and global warming. He reviewed an NAE booklet discussing principles for Christian political engagement: protecting religious freedom and liberty of conscience, nurturing family life and protecting children, protecting the sanctity of human life and safeguarding its nature, seeking justice and compassion for the poor and vulnerable, protecting human rights, seeking peace and working to restrain violence, and protecting God's creation.
Marian Franz, executive director for the National Campaign for a Peace Tax Fund, spoke about her work lobbying on the peace tax issue. The Peace Tax Fund bill, which has been compiled in the House of Representatives, has around 40 members signed on. The proposed bill would allow people who do not want any of their tax money to go to military spending, to have it placed in a fund for other purposes. Support has come from some unlikely organizations and seems to be on the upswing, Franz said.
Jim Towey, director of the Faith-Based Initiative for the White House, explained the plan that is designed, in part, to help faith-based organizations attain federal grant money for programs. He spoke candidly about government bureaucracy. "Regardless of whether you're a faith-based group or not, government can be a pain in the neck," he said. "We just look at whether the grant program works, not what religion it is."
The meeting in Towey's office ended with prayer, as did the meeting in Rangel's office. Many in the COMS group later reported that prayer in the presence of political officials and their staff was very meaningful, as it brought to a new light the cooperation between individuals and government who work together for change on many of the world's social justice concerns.
Participants included Annual Conference moderator Ronald Beachley; Chuck Buller, executive director of the Mennonite-Brethren Church; J. Daryl Byler, director of the MCC Washington Office; Warren Hoffman, moderator of the Brethren in Christ Church; Phil Jones, director of Brethren Witness/Washington Office; Titus Peachey, director of Peace Education for MCC US; Rolando L. Santiago, director of MCC US; Jim Schrag, executive director of the Mennonite Church USA; Ben Shirk, moderator of the Conservative Mennonite Conference; Steve Swartz, general secretary of the Conservative Mennonite Conference; and Roy Williams, moderator of the Mennonite Church USA. Hoffman was selected as moderator of COMS for 2006.
--Todd Flory is a legislative associate and Brethren Volunteer Service worker at the Brethren Witness/Washington Office of the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Source: 12/21/2005 Newsline
By Todd Flory
The Council of Moderators and General Secretaries (COMS) of Anabaptist denominations held an annual meeting at Washington (D.C.) City Church of the Brethren Dec. 1-3. Hosted by the Brethren Witness/Washington Office and the Washington Office of Mennonite Central Committee US (MCC), the group represented the Church of the Brethren, the Mennonite Church USA, the Brethren in Christ Church, the Conservative Mennonite Conference, and the Mennonite Brethren USA.
Washington was selected as the site for the meeting to facilitate and continue discussions with members of Congress and the Selective Service. The meeting follows a consultation on alternative service sponsored by COMS in March.
A portion of the meeting focused on the issues of alternative service and the potential of a military draft. In other meetings, the group met with leaders of the Faith-Based Initiative for the White House, the National Association of Evangelicals, the National Campaign for a Peace Tax Fund, and staff of Rep. Charles Rangel (D-NY), who proposed a draft bill in Jan. 2003 that was almost unanimously defeated. Emile Milne, Rangel's foreign policy legislative director, said he had heard many groups talk about the draft but the Church of the Brethren and COMS were the only religious groups to come to the representative's office in person to talk about it.
Richard Flahavan and Cassandra Costley from the Selective Service System spoke regarding the potential of a military draft. "When you read the signs, you can see there's really no secret plan to fire up the draft," Flahavan said. "You can all be confident it's not going to happen." Costley said that she has had numerous meetings with various peace churches to work out guidelines for alternative service if a draft is implemented. "We welcome any assistance from religious organizations in finding suitable employment for these conscientious objectors," she said.
Not everyone was as certain that a draft will not occur. "We have all the elements of a perfect storm, and all we need is a butterfly flutter," said J.E. McNeil, executive director of the Center on Conscience and War. McNeil said she believes that President Bush might implement a draft if he thought it would pass through Congress. "'We have no choice,' that's the phrase he's going to have to use to sell it." Theo Sitther, lobbyist for CCW, added, "No one in the administration is talking about a draft, but people in the Pentagon are."
COMS discussed a contingency plan for a military draft, led by MCC staff Rolando Santiago and Titus Peachey. A report of issues, questions, and recommendations was presented, developed by Del Hershberger, director of Christian Service for Mennonite Mission Network; Dan McFadden, director of Brethren Volunteer Service; and Peachey, director of Peace Education for MCC. Issues included alternative service placements, support for registrants, staying in relationship with soldiers, relationship to government and Selective Service, and collaboration with other historic peace churches and the CCW. Each representative at the COMS meeting will discuss the plan with his denomination and report in the spring.
COMS also met with Richard Cizik, vice-president for Governmental Affairs for the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE), which has been working on issues such as the conflict in Darfur, prison rape, and global warming. He reviewed an NAE booklet discussing principles for Christian political engagement: protecting religious freedom and liberty of conscience, nurturing family life and protecting children, protecting the sanctity of human life and safeguarding its nature, seeking justice and compassion for the poor and vulnerable, protecting human rights, seeking peace and working to restrain violence, and protecting God's creation.
Marian Franz, executive director for the National Campaign for a Peace Tax Fund, spoke about her work lobbying on the peace tax issue. The Peace Tax Fund bill, which has been compiled in the House of Representatives, has around 40 members signed on. The proposed bill would allow people who do not want any of their tax money to go to military spending, to have it placed in a fund for other purposes. Support has come from some unlikely organizations and seems to be on the upswing, Franz said.
Jim Towey, director of the Faith-Based Initiative for the White House, explained the plan that is designed, in part, to help faith-based organizations attain federal grant money for programs. He spoke candidly about government bureaucracy. "Regardless of whether you're a faith-based group or not, government can be a pain in the neck," he said. "We just look at whether the grant program works, not what religion it is."
The meeting in Towey's office ended with prayer, as did the meeting in Rangel's office. Many in the COMS group later reported that prayer in the presence of political officials and their staff was very meaningful, as it brought to a new light the cooperation between individuals and government who work together for change on many of the world's social justice concerns.
Participants included Annual Conference moderator Ronald Beachley; Chuck Buller, executive director of the Mennonite-Brethren Church; J. Daryl Byler, director of the MCC Washington Office; Warren Hoffman, moderator of the Brethren in Christ Church; Phil Jones, director of Brethren Witness/Washington Office; Titus Peachey, director of Peace Education for MCC US; Rolando L. Santiago, director of MCC US; Jim Schrag, executive director of the Mennonite Church USA; Ben Shirk, moderator of the Conservative Mennonite Conference; Steve Swartz, general secretary of the Conservative Mennonite Conference; and Roy Williams, moderator of the Mennonite Church USA. Hoffman was selected as moderator of COMS for 2006.
--Todd Flory is a legislative associate and Brethren Volunteer Service worker at the Brethren Witness/Washington Office of the Church of the Brethren General Board.
Source: 12/21/2005 Newsline
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
National Youth Conference (NYC) Speech Contest Deadline
The deadline for the National Youth Conference (NYC) Speech Contest is quickly approaching. Every youth attending NYC next summer is invited to write a speech on the theme, "Come and See." The speech should be based on John 1:35-39. "In this passage, when John's disciples asked Jesus where he was staying, instead of just telling them, he invited them to `come and see,'" said a statement from the NYC coordinators. "Jesus is inviting these disciples to come and be with him, to truly see who he is. As we come together in Colorado, show us your understanding of faith in today's culture and world." The top two entries will be preached during one of the worship services at NYC. Entries should be 500-700 words and about 10 minutes long. Send both written and audio versions to the NYC Office, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120. The deadline is Jan. 1, 2006. For more information see www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/NYC2006/index.html.
Source: 12/14/2005 Newsline
The deadline for the National Youth Conference (NYC) Speech Contest is quickly approaching. Every youth attending NYC next summer is invited to write a speech on the theme, "Come and See." The speech should be based on John 1:35-39. "In this passage, when John's disciples asked Jesus where he was staying, instead of just telling them, he invited them to `come and see,'" said a statement from the NYC coordinators. "Jesus is inviting these disciples to come and be with him, to truly see who he is. As we come together in Colorado, show us your understanding of faith in today's culture and world." The top two entries will be preached during one of the worship services at NYC. Entries should be 500-700 words and about 10 minutes long. Send both written and audio versions to the NYC Office, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120. The deadline is Jan. 1, 2006. For more information see www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/NYC2006/index.html.
Source: 12/14/2005 Newsline
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