ANABAPTIST LEADERS MEET TO DISCUSS ALTERNATIVE SERVICE
(Dec. 13, 2005) -- The Council of Moderators and General Secretaries (COMS) of Anabaptist denominations kicked off a 2005 annual meeting at Washington City Church of the Brethren on Thursday, Dec. 1.
Washington was selected for the meeting Dec. 1-3 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 at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill.
Anabaptist churches that are members of the council include the Church of the Brethren, the Mennonite Church USA, the Brethren in Christ Church, the Conservative Mennonite Conference, and the Mennonite Brethren USA. Staff from Mennonite Central Committee US were invited to attend the meeting. Staff of the Church of the Brethren Witness/Washington Office and the Washington Office of the Mennonite Central Committee coordinated the meeting.
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, and the National Campaign for a Peace Tax Fund.
The council also visited with staff of Rep. Charles Rangel (D-NY) in his Capitol Hill office. Rangel, who did not vote for the use of force in Iraq, proposed a draft bill in January 2003 that was voted on and almost unanimously defeated. This past year, Rangel introduced the draft bill again, this time with changes to the conscientious objector language.
Richard Flahavan and Cassandra Costley from the Selective Service System met with the group. “When you read the signs, you can see there’s really no secret plan to fire up the draft. You can all be confident it’s not going to happen,” Flahavan said. However, Costley said that she has had numerous meetings with various religious groups 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 is as certain that a draft will not occur. “I think 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 that she believes 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,” she said.
Theo Sitther, lobbyist for the center, added, “No one in the administration is talking about a draft, but people in the Pentagon are.” That is one reason why McNeil believes it is important to continue to educate and provide alternatives for people faced with the possibility of a draft.
In the meeting at Rep. Rangel’s office, Emile Milne, Rangel’s foreign policy legislative director, commented on the draft bill. “It was based on the issue of fairness,” Milne said. “If some people have to be in the war, then we should all have to share in that responsibility.” Milne said that another reason for Rangel’s bill was to make the draft a non-issue, as it obviously was going to be overwhelmingly defeated.
Immediate troop withdrawal from Iraq is something that Rangel would also support, Milne said. “Rangel believes the Iraq war is weakening the military to the point where the United States may not be able to defend itself if attacked,” he said.
The COMS meeting included discussion of development of a contingency plan for a military draft, led by Mennonite Central Committee US staff Rolando Santiago and Titus Peachey. A report of issues, questions, and recommendations were presented to COMS for consideration, 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 Mennonite Central Committee US.
Some of the issues raised were alternative service placements under church agencies and non-church agencies, support for registrants, staying in relationship with soldiers, relationship of the churches to the government and Selective Service, and collaboration with other historic peace churches and the Center on Conscience and War. Santiago said the report is a work in progress designed to provide guidelines for denominations and organizations. Each representative at the COMS meeting will discuss the plan with his respective denomination and report back in the spring.
“I’m personally very encouraged by the degree of this discussion,” Santiago said.
COMS also met with Richard Cizik, vice-president for governmental affairs for the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE), who reviewed a publication outlining seven principles for Christian political engagement.
Marian Franz, executive director for the National Campaign for a Peace Tax Fund, spoke with the group about her work lobbying on the peace tax issue.
In the meeting on the Faith-Based Initiative, Jim Towey, director of the Faith-Based Initiative for the White House, explained President Bush’s Faith-Based and Community Initiative Plan. The meeting in Towey’s office ended with prayer, as did the meeting in Rep. 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 at the COMS annual meeting included Ronald Beachley, moderator of the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference; Chuck Buller, executive director of the Mennonite-Brethren Church; J. Daryl Byler, director of the Mennonite Central Committee Washington Office; Warren Hoffman, moderator of the Brethren in Christ Church; Phil Jones, director of the Church of the Brethren’s Brethren Witness/Washington Office; Titus Peachey, director of Peace Education for Mennonite Central Committee US; Rolando L. Santiago, director of Mennonite Central Committee 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.
Source: 12/13/2005 Brethren Daily News
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
Youth find solace in local faith groups
By JULIA HAMPTON
BRATTLEBORO
Each day we are bombarded by decisions, commitments, and obligations, and amid all of this, we have some fun and relax. For young people it is no different.
They are pulled between school, family, extra curricular activities and possibly even a job. Young people are trying to figure out who they are and how to make good choices. There are many different support systems that can help them along their journey, including faith communities.
"Life is hectic and I am under a lot of stress," said Annamae Manning, 16. "Church is a place I can listen and not have to worry about anything."
"I love the sense of community that is singular to religion," said Jesse Lopata, 16, as he talked about being a part of the Brattleboro Area Jewish Community. "Through worship and prayer, real connection to those around you and God ... you're almost overwhelmed by happinessits. It's comforting."
Faith based communities provide support and a sense of connection that can have a profound impact on young people. Faith communities help young people develop values and spiritual strength.
Ian Hutchenson, 15, who attends Genesis Church of the Brethren, said he isn't exactly sure what he believes about God, but he appreciates having a place to talk about it.
Timothy Gantt, 17, who attends Agape Christian Fellowship, said that he definitely believes in God and that helps him feel less confused about life and what he is here for.
Faith communities also provide an opportunity for intergenerational connection where adults can mentor and teach children, passing on their life experience and wisdom in a unique way. They become an extended family where people feel loved and supported. Manning said that she goes to Centre Congregational Church because she likes the people.
She said that when things were hard at home she had people at church she was able to talk to. Hutchenson described Genesis Church of the Brethren as a community of good friends that support each other and pray for each other.
In Windham County, about 30 percent of youth in grades 6 through 12 spend one or more hours per week in activities in a religious institution. Gantt said that church "is a fun place where I can hang out with friends." His youth group meets regularly to play games and have Bible study.
Hutchenson described "work camps" his youth group attends in the summer where they travel to North Carolina to help communities by building play grounds, working on nature trails, playing with children and more. Lopata meets with his youth group once a month to discuss Judaism in the world today and how it affects their lives.
With this sense of community and support, it is no surprise that research has found that young people involved in a faith community are more likely to volunteer in their community, be involved in student government, as well as have higher self-esteem and positive attitudes about life. Hutchenson described how his involvement in his church has encouraged him to help others and the community more than he would have apart from church.
Research also shows that young people who are part of a faith community are less likely to be involved in risky behaviors such as drugs and alcohol use, sexual intercourse and not wearing a safety belt. Gantt commented that as a teenager his involvement in youth group "keeps me active and out of trouble."
Lopata sought out a faith community as a teenager because he wanted to figure out what being Jewish was all about. He has friends that he feels have turned to drugs and alcohol because they are not intellectually stimulated or connected to a supportive community. Lopata explained that Judaism has a moral code and a focus on justice that "is hard to find in our culture. It is nice to step back and use Judaism to analyze the world and see how we can make things better."
With life as hectic and complicated as it is, it is important to make sure our young people have a community of support. Faith based communities can provide a wonderful place for young people to be connected to positive adults and peers, have opportunities to grow spiritually and be involved in fun activities that provide them with skills, knowledge and a sense of purpose.
Source: Brattleboro Reformer
By JULIA HAMPTON
BRATTLEBORO
Each day we are bombarded by decisions, commitments, and obligations, and amid all of this, we have some fun and relax. For young people it is no different.
They are pulled between school, family, extra curricular activities and possibly even a job. Young people are trying to figure out who they are and how to make good choices. There are many different support systems that can help them along their journey, including faith communities.
"Life is hectic and I am under a lot of stress," said Annamae Manning, 16. "Church is a place I can listen and not have to worry about anything."
"I love the sense of community that is singular to religion," said Jesse Lopata, 16, as he talked about being a part of the Brattleboro Area Jewish Community. "Through worship and prayer, real connection to those around you and God ... you're almost overwhelmed by happinessits. It's comforting."
Faith based communities provide support and a sense of connection that can have a profound impact on young people. Faith communities help young people develop values and spiritual strength.
Ian Hutchenson, 15, who attends Genesis Church of the Brethren, said he isn't exactly sure what he believes about God, but he appreciates having a place to talk about it.
Timothy Gantt, 17, who attends Agape Christian Fellowship, said that he definitely believes in God and that helps him feel less confused about life and what he is here for.
Faith communities also provide an opportunity for intergenerational connection where adults can mentor and teach children, passing on their life experience and wisdom in a unique way. They become an extended family where people feel loved and supported. Manning said that she goes to Centre Congregational Church because she likes the people.
She said that when things were hard at home she had people at church she was able to talk to. Hutchenson described Genesis Church of the Brethren as a community of good friends that support each other and pray for each other.
In Windham County, about 30 percent of youth in grades 6 through 12 spend one or more hours per week in activities in a religious institution. Gantt said that church "is a fun place where I can hang out with friends." His youth group meets regularly to play games and have Bible study.
Hutchenson described "work camps" his youth group attends in the summer where they travel to North Carolina to help communities by building play grounds, working on nature trails, playing with children and more. Lopata meets with his youth group once a month to discuss Judaism in the world today and how it affects their lives.
With this sense of community and support, it is no surprise that research has found that young people involved in a faith community are more likely to volunteer in their community, be involved in student government, as well as have higher self-esteem and positive attitudes about life. Hutchenson described how his involvement in his church has encouraged him to help others and the community more than he would have apart from church.
Research also shows that young people who are part of a faith community are less likely to be involved in risky behaviors such as drugs and alcohol use, sexual intercourse and not wearing a safety belt. Gantt commented that as a teenager his involvement in youth group "keeps me active and out of trouble."
Lopata sought out a faith community as a teenager because he wanted to figure out what being Jewish was all about. He has friends that he feels have turned to drugs and alcohol because they are not intellectually stimulated or connected to a supportive community. Lopata explained that Judaism has a moral code and a focus on justice that "is hard to find in our culture. It is nice to step back and use Judaism to analyze the world and see how we can make things better."
With life as hectic and complicated as it is, it is important to make sure our young people have a community of support. Faith based communities can provide a wonderful place for young people to be connected to positive adults and peers, have opportunities to grow spiritually and be involved in fun activities that provide them with skills, knowledge and a sense of purpose.
Source: Brattleboro Reformer
Saturday, December 03, 2005
Illinois/Wisconsin District NYC Travel Plans
The 2006 National Youth Conference is quickly approaching, and the Illinois/Wisconsin District bus trip is ready to take you there! This has become a much-enjoyed tradition, and it should be a great trip again this year.
Buses will leave from Naperville, Peoria, and Dixon on July 21 to head west. We will spend one night on the way out in Omaha, Neb., and one night on the way back at McPherson College in McPherson, Kan., before returning to the same three churches on July 28. The cost for the trip is just $200 - an increase of only $25 from the 2002 trip - which covers everything except meals and personal expenses. Initial registration/deposit deadline is March 15. A packet with details and registration forms will be sent to all churches in early December. If you still need information, contact Walt Wiltschek at wwiltschek_gb@brethren.org.
Note that this does not include your NYC registration; NYC participants need to register and pay for the conference separately; go to www.nyc2006.org.
NYC, held only once every four years for youth in grades 9 through one year beyond high school, is one of the largest and most exciting events in the denomination. Don't miss it!
The 2006 National Youth Conference is quickly approaching, and the Illinois/Wisconsin District bus trip is ready to take you there! This has become a much-enjoyed tradition, and it should be a great trip again this year.
Buses will leave from Naperville, Peoria, and Dixon on July 21 to head west. We will spend one night on the way out in Omaha, Neb., and one night on the way back at McPherson College in McPherson, Kan., before returning to the same three churches on July 28. The cost for the trip is just $200 - an increase of only $25 from the 2002 trip - which covers everything except meals and personal expenses. Initial registration/deposit deadline is March 15. A packet with details and registration forms will be sent to all churches in early December. If you still need information, contact Walt Wiltschek at wwiltschek_gb@brethren.org.
Note that this does not include your NYC registration; NYC participants need to register and pay for the conference separately; go to www.nyc2006.org.
NYC, held only once every four years for youth in grades 9 through one year beyond high school, is one of the largest and most exciting events in the denomination. Don't miss it!
Fall Retreat Recap
This year's fall district senior high youth retreat was held in conjunction with district conference Nov. 4-6 in Springfield, Ill. While we would have liked to have had more youth from the central and southern regions of the district participating, we still had a good weekend together.
About 25 people enjoyed presentations by former Brethren mission worker Roger Schrock on God's calling in our lives, and on ways that youth can call the church to take on challenging issues. Youth again served a Saturday evening ice cream social at the conference, raising about $300 to help defray next summer's National Youth Conference bus trip costs. The weekend also included worship, games, good meals, and free time to get better acquainted. Many thanks to cabinet president Becca Lipscomb and others at the Springfield church for helping with the arrangements.
Plans for the Spring Rretreat have also been finalized. It will take place March 17-19 at Freeport Church of the Brethren. Tom Benevento, Latin America/Caribbean specialist for the Church of the Brethren General Board, will be our guest leader.
This year's fall district senior high youth retreat was held in conjunction with district conference Nov. 4-6 in Springfield, Ill. While we would have liked to have had more youth from the central and southern regions of the district participating, we still had a good weekend together.
About 25 people enjoyed presentations by former Brethren mission worker Roger Schrock on God's calling in our lives, and on ways that youth can call the church to take on challenging issues. Youth again served a Saturday evening ice cream social at the conference, raising about $300 to help defray next summer's National Youth Conference bus trip costs. The weekend also included worship, games, good meals, and free time to get better acquainted. Many thanks to cabinet president Becca Lipscomb and others at the Springfield church for helping with the arrangements.
Plans for the Spring Rretreat have also been finalized. It will take place March 17-19 at Freeport Church of the Brethren. Tom Benevento, Latin America/Caribbean specialist for the Church of the Brethren General Board, will be our guest leader.
Friday, November 18, 2005
Speakers for National Youth Conference 2006 are announced.
The line-up of speakers for National Youth Conference 2006, to be held in Fort Collins, Colo., July 22-27, will feature nationally known Christian activist and Sojourners community leader Jim Wallis, among a number of Church of the Brethren leaders, a comedy duo, a recipient of aid from Heifer International, and a leader against child slavery.
Wallis will speak on Sunday evening, July 23. The Mennonite comedy team Ted & Lee will perform on Sunday morning July 23. Craig Kielburger, who at the age of 12 helped organize the "Free the Children" network aimed at eradicating child slavery, will speak Monday evening July 24. Beatrice Biira, heroine of the children's story "Beatrice's Goat" and a Heifer International recipient from Uganda, will speak on Tuesday evening July 25.
Church of the Brethren speakers include Jeff Carter, a pastor at Manassas (Va.) Church of the Brethren, on Saturday evening July 22; peace studies leader and Juniata College professor emeritus Andy Murray on Wednesday morning July 26; Bethany Theological Seminary professor Dawn Ottoni Wilhelm on Wednesday evening July 26; and David Radcliff, director of the New Community Project, on Thursday morning July 27.
On Monday morning July 24 the speakers will be the winners of a Youth Speech Contest. In addition, a Church of the Brethren Connections Service will highlight the work of the church around the world. The service will use multi-media to both inform and inspire youth by allowing them to see, hear, and feel what the church does both nationally and internationally, said a release from the NYC coordinators. "The hope for this service is that it will encourage the youth to make the work of the church a permanent part of their lives." Coordinators for the event are Cindy Laprade, Beth Rhodes, and Emily Tyler.
Follow up at the NYC website, www.nyc2006.org, which soon will offer more information about each of the speakers.
Source: 11/18/2005 Newsline
The line-up of speakers for National Youth Conference 2006, to be held in Fort Collins, Colo., July 22-27, will feature nationally known Christian activist and Sojourners community leader Jim Wallis, among a number of Church of the Brethren leaders, a comedy duo, a recipient of aid from Heifer International, and a leader against child slavery.
Wallis will speak on Sunday evening, July 23. The Mennonite comedy team Ted & Lee will perform on Sunday morning July 23. Craig Kielburger, who at the age of 12 helped organize the "Free the Children" network aimed at eradicating child slavery, will speak Monday evening July 24. Beatrice Biira, heroine of the children's story "Beatrice's Goat" and a Heifer International recipient from Uganda, will speak on Tuesday evening July 25.
Church of the Brethren speakers include Jeff Carter, a pastor at Manassas (Va.) Church of the Brethren, on Saturday evening July 22; peace studies leader and Juniata College professor emeritus Andy Murray on Wednesday morning July 26; Bethany Theological Seminary professor Dawn Ottoni Wilhelm on Wednesday evening July 26; and David Radcliff, director of the New Community Project, on Thursday morning July 27.
On Monday morning July 24 the speakers will be the winners of a Youth Speech Contest. In addition, a Church of the Brethren Connections Service will highlight the work of the church around the world. The service will use multi-media to both inform and inspire youth by allowing them to see, hear, and feel what the church does both nationally and internationally, said a release from the NYC coordinators. "The hope for this service is that it will encourage the youth to make the work of the church a permanent part of their lives." Coordinators for the event are Cindy Laprade, Beth Rhodes, and Emily Tyler.
Follow up at the NYC website, www.nyc2006.org, which soon will offer more information about each of the speakers.
Source: 11/18/2005 Newsline
New workcamp announced for summer 2006.
Registration for the 2006 summer workcamp season will begin on Dec. 1 at 12 a.m. eastern time. Brochures listing the workcamp options and a listing on the website are available from the Youth and Young Adult Office of the church of the Brethren General Board. The office also has announced that it is jointly sponsoring with the Brethren Revival Fellowship (BRF) a new senior high BRF workcamp option in Puerto Rico for summer of 2006.
Dates for the BRF workcamp are June 17-27. Twenty senior high youth and advisors who identify themselves with the BRF are welcome to join a workcamp that will partner with Puerto Rican congregations in work projects and to build relationships between campers and members of Puerto Rican congregations. "This workcamp will emphasize conservative, evangelical ideals with BRF leadership directing the camp," said workcamp coordinator Monica Rice.
Rice added, "Make sure to get your workcamp registrations in as soon as possible to insure that you receive your first workcamp choice. Just remember that there are many exciting options including five junior high camps, one senior high camp, one young adult camp, and a brand-new junior high/intergenerational camp." Find more information and register at www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/workcamps/index.html, or e-mail mrice_gb@brethren.org or call 800-323-8039 ext. 281.
Source: 11/18/2005 Newsline
Registration for the 2006 summer workcamp season will begin on Dec. 1 at 12 a.m. eastern time. Brochures listing the workcamp options and a listing on the website are available from the Youth and Young Adult Office of the church of the Brethren General Board. The office also has announced that it is jointly sponsoring with the Brethren Revival Fellowship (BRF) a new senior high BRF workcamp option in Puerto Rico for summer of 2006.
Dates for the BRF workcamp are June 17-27. Twenty senior high youth and advisors who identify themselves with the BRF are welcome to join a workcamp that will partner with Puerto Rican congregations in work projects and to build relationships between campers and members of Puerto Rican congregations. "This workcamp will emphasize conservative, evangelical ideals with BRF leadership directing the camp," said workcamp coordinator Monica Rice.
Rice added, "Make sure to get your workcamp registrations in as soon as possible to insure that you receive your first workcamp choice. Just remember that there are many exciting options including five junior high camps, one senior high camp, one young adult camp, and a brand-new junior high/intergenerational camp." Find more information and register at www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/workcamps/index.html, or e-mail mrice_gb@brethren.org or call 800-323-8039 ext. 281.
Source: 11/18/2005 Newsline
Sunday, November 06, 2005
Wednesday, October 26, 2005
First junior high conference is deemed a major success.
Tony Bruner stood before a group of 250 junior high youth and advisors and told them they were part of a special moment. Never before had a conference for their age group been held on a regional or national scale in the Church of the Brethren. Yet here they were, meeting Sept. 30-Oct. 2 in New Windsor, Md. Eight districts from Pennsylvania to North Carolina took part.
Bruner co-chaired the planning committee with General Board Youth/Young Adult Ministry director Chris Douglas. More than a year of planning went into the weekend, which carried the theme "Be Strong and Courageous."
They had no trouble finding junior highers willing to come. Douglas said registration was capped at 250 due to the facility limits of the Brethren Service Center, and a waiting list quickly grew. While most events were held at the center, the group slept at a nearby middle school.
The conference packed the allotted time with worship, meals, small groups, workshops, optional service projects, games, and tours of the center. Worship messages came from Mennonite drama team Ted & Lee, New Creation Project pastor David Weiss, and Annual Conference moderator-elect Belita Mitchell, who pastors Harrisburg (Pa.) First Church of the Brethren. Brethren folksinger Joseph Helfrich led music.
"It's really putting God in perspective," said Laura Kownacki of Mechanicsburg (Pa.) Church of the Brethren, who said she particularly enjoyed a workshop with Ted & Lee. "They should make it a week long." She also liked the "hot hats" that participants received: red caps printed with "Jr. Hi."
Organizers said the response indicated a need for more such events. In the meantime, Weiss urged the junior high youth to continue offering their gifts to the church and the world. "Young people, we need you now!" Weiss said. "(Others) need to see you making a difference, and they can. There are so many many ways you can make a difference. Will you put your life in the hands of an extraordinary God?"
Source: 10/26/2005 Newsline
Tony Bruner stood before a group of 250 junior high youth and advisors and told them they were part of a special moment. Never before had a conference for their age group been held on a regional or national scale in the Church of the Brethren. Yet here they were, meeting Sept. 30-Oct. 2 in New Windsor, Md. Eight districts from Pennsylvania to North Carolina took part.
Bruner co-chaired the planning committee with General Board Youth/Young Adult Ministry director Chris Douglas. More than a year of planning went into the weekend, which carried the theme "Be Strong and Courageous."
They had no trouble finding junior highers willing to come. Douglas said registration was capped at 250 due to the facility limits of the Brethren Service Center, and a waiting list quickly grew. While most events were held at the center, the group slept at a nearby middle school.
The conference packed the allotted time with worship, meals, small groups, workshops, optional service projects, games, and tours of the center. Worship messages came from Mennonite drama team Ted & Lee, New Creation Project pastor David Weiss, and Annual Conference moderator-elect Belita Mitchell, who pastors Harrisburg (Pa.) First Church of the Brethren. Brethren folksinger Joseph Helfrich led music.
"It's really putting God in perspective," said Laura Kownacki of Mechanicsburg (Pa.) Church of the Brethren, who said she particularly enjoyed a workshop with Ted & Lee. "They should make it a week long." She also liked the "hot hats" that participants received: red caps printed with "Jr. Hi."
Organizers said the response indicated a need for more such events. In the meantime, Weiss urged the junior high youth to continue offering their gifts to the church and the world. "Young people, we need you now!" Weiss said. "(Others) need to see you making a difference, and they can. There are so many many ways you can make a difference. Will you put your life in the hands of an extraordinary God?"
Source: 10/26/2005 Newsline
Brochures and website are available for 2006 workcamps.
The Youth and Young Adult Office of the General Board has announced that brochures and a website for the 2006 workcamps are now available. Around 3,000 brochures already have been mailed directly to congregations and individuals. For the summer of 2006 the office is planning six junior high workcamps including a new junior high/intergenerational workcamp, one senior high workcamp, and one young adult workcamp.
Junior high workcamps are scheduled for June 12-16 in Ashland, Ohio; June 19-23 in Innisfree Village, Va.; July 9-13 in New Windsor, Md.; July 16-20 in Keyser, W.Va.; and Aug. 9-13 in Indianapolis, Ind. The junior high/intergenerational workcamp is set for Aug. 2-6 in Harrisburg, Pa. The senior high workcamp will take place June 11-17 in Kyle, S.D. The young adult workcamp will be May 29-June 5 in Tijuana, Mexico.
"Continuing the WORK of Jesus" will be the theme for the workcamps, taking a look at the example of Jesus' life and ministry and applying that example to situations in workcamp settings. There will also be sharing about modern people who exemplify Jesus' work in the world, and some of the Youth Action Goals for the United Nations Millennium Development Campaign will be incorporated. "Altogether, we are planning to grow in faith, knowledge, and appreciation for service in many different settings through the 2006 workcamps," said coordinator Monica Rice.
To order brochures or for more information contact Rice at 800-323-8039 or mrice_gb@brethren.org. Visit the workcamp website, where you can download a PDF version of the workcamp brochure and begin registration for workcamps on Dec 1 at 12:00 am Eastern time, at www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/workcamps/index.html.
Source: 10/26/2005 Newsline
The Youth and Young Adult Office of the General Board has announced that brochures and a website for the 2006 workcamps are now available. Around 3,000 brochures already have been mailed directly to congregations and individuals. For the summer of 2006 the office is planning six junior high workcamps including a new junior high/intergenerational workcamp, one senior high workcamp, and one young adult workcamp.
Junior high workcamps are scheduled for June 12-16 in Ashland, Ohio; June 19-23 in Innisfree Village, Va.; July 9-13 in New Windsor, Md.; July 16-20 in Keyser, W.Va.; and Aug. 9-13 in Indianapolis, Ind. The junior high/intergenerational workcamp is set for Aug. 2-6 in Harrisburg, Pa. The senior high workcamp will take place June 11-17 in Kyle, S.D. The young adult workcamp will be May 29-June 5 in Tijuana, Mexico.
"Continuing the WORK of Jesus" will be the theme for the workcamps, taking a look at the example of Jesus' life and ministry and applying that example to situations in workcamp settings. There will also be sharing about modern people who exemplify Jesus' work in the world, and some of the Youth Action Goals for the United Nations Millennium Development Campaign will be incorporated. "Altogether, we are planning to grow in faith, knowledge, and appreciation for service in many different settings through the 2006 workcamps," said coordinator Monica Rice.
To order brochures or for more information contact Rice at 800-323-8039 or mrice_gb@brethren.org. Visit the workcamp website, where you can download a PDF version of the workcamp brochure and begin registration for workcamps on Dec 1 at 12:00 am Eastern time, at www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/workcamps/index.html.
Source: 10/26/2005 Newsline
Preparations for National Youth Conference 2006 continue.
Preparations for National Youth Conference (NYC) 2006 in Fort Collins, Colo., next summer continue with calls for entries to a Theme Song Contest and a Speech Contest, and an announcement of a new list server for the event. The NYC coordinators also issued a call for youth worker applications. Youth workers act as volunteer staff for the event and carry out a variety of tasks during the week of the conference.
The Theme Song Contest is open to anyone who likes to write music. Songs should center on the theme for NYC, "Come and See." Submissions are due to the NYC Office by Nov. 1 in the form of both an audio recording and a print copy of the lyrics.
The Speech Contest is open to all youth attending NYC 2006. The topic of speeches should center on the theme for NYC, "Come and See." Entries should include a written copy and audio copy of the speech, which should be 500-700 words (about 10 minutes spoken). Submissions are due to the NYC Office by Jan. 1, 2006. The authors of the top two entries will give their speeches during a worship service at NYC.
The new list serv is open to anyone who wants to keep up to date on the latest NYC news. Subscribe at http://listserver.emountain.net/mailman/listinfo/nyc2006
Youthworker applications are due Nov. 1. The application form and more information may be found on the NYC website at www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/NYC2006/index.html.
Coordinators for NYC 2006 are Cindy Laprade, Beth Rhodes, and Emily Tyler, working with Chris Douglas, the General Board's director for Youth and Young Adult Ministries. For more information about NYC 2006, see www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/NYC2006/index.html.
Source: 10/26/2005 Newsline
Preparations for National Youth Conference (NYC) 2006 in Fort Collins, Colo., next summer continue with calls for entries to a Theme Song Contest and a Speech Contest, and an announcement of a new list server for the event. The NYC coordinators also issued a call for youth worker applications. Youth workers act as volunteer staff for the event and carry out a variety of tasks during the week of the conference.
The Theme Song Contest is open to anyone who likes to write music. Songs should center on the theme for NYC, "Come and See." Submissions are due to the NYC Office by Nov. 1 in the form of both an audio recording and a print copy of the lyrics.
The Speech Contest is open to all youth attending NYC 2006. The topic of speeches should center on the theme for NYC, "Come and See." Entries should include a written copy and audio copy of the speech, which should be 500-700 words (about 10 minutes spoken). Submissions are due to the NYC Office by Jan. 1, 2006. The authors of the top two entries will give their speeches during a worship service at NYC.
The new list serv is open to anyone who wants to keep up to date on the latest NYC news. Subscribe at http://listserver.emountain.net/mailman/listinfo/nyc2006
Youthworker applications are due Nov. 1. The application form and more information may be found on the NYC website at www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/NYC2006/index.html.
Coordinators for NYC 2006 are Cindy Laprade, Beth Rhodes, and Emily Tyler, working with Chris Douglas, the General Board's director for Youth and Young Adult Ministries. For more information about NYC 2006, see www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/NYC2006/index.html.
Source: 10/26/2005 Newsline
Friday, October 14, 2005
Illinois - Land of Contrasts
Don Vermilyea's Reflections
October 2005
Dear Friends
For only the second summer of the four walked, wild fruit was plentiful. The early fruits (blackberries and raspberries) mostly dried up, but the apples were abundant from wild trees. There was even a peach tree with golf ball size fruits on the ground. Man they were good!
Illinois was brutal hot and humid for the entire four months the walk was there, except for about ten days. This makes three summers out of four with well above normal temperatures. Fifty degrees is a nice temperature for me, eighty is very hot to walk and sixty-five and above at night means sleep is accomplished in sweat. But… it didn't rain much, bad for farmers and good for me.
Church of the Brethren and others hospitality was excellent for the most part. This is the largest thank you section so far. June and July thank yous for food, lodging, etc., to: Karen, Charley, and Kenny Bridges; Jim and Becky Griffen; Howard Schockey; Tony Saputo; Dale, Penny, Courtney, Sammy, Evan, Andrae, and Brenden Dinterman; LaPlace Church of the Brethren; Jodie, Derek, Torie, Josiah, and Isacc Agar; Bill Nickerson; Becky from the Salvation Army; Eric Volkel-Barno, Melinda, and Andrew Barno; Terry Link; Marsha, Allen, and Emily Krall; Kres, Elizabeth, and Becka Lipscomb; Springfield First Church of the Brethren; Fletcher Farrar and Mary Jessup; Jan Stoller; Joan Boatz; Astoria Church of the Brethren; Gary Schultz; Woodlands Church of the Brethren; Jeanine and Ernie Shanks; Camp Emmanuel; Debbie Taylor and Love Community Church; Tammy and Kevin Kessler; Canton Church of the Brethren; Virgina Everist; David Radcliff; Larry and Barbara O'Neil; Chris, Jenny, and Molly Stover-Brown; Hannah Edwards; Amy Heckert; John and Michelle Elder; Leonard, Vicky, and Wendy Matheny; Peoria First Church of the Brethren; Christine Hoecker; Dana McNeil; Church of the Brethren General Board; Marilyn Kiefaber; Peter Yordy; Philip and Peggy Yordy; Panther Creek Church of the Brethren; Annie and Jerry Sales; St. James Evangelical Congregational Church; Dan McFadden; Judy and Neil Brinkmeir; Harry and Cindy Wilkinson; Anna Pomazal; Chuck and Jane Pomazal; Dixon Church of the Brethren; Dale and Alice Wickert; Pat Ball; Camp Emmaus; Church of the Brethren Illinois Junior High Camp; Jim Miner; Barb, Tim, Alex, and Cheyenne Krehl; Uldine Baker; Dean and Sue Coppernoll; Pat and Earl Miller; Yellow Creek, Freeport, and Rockford First Church's of the Brethren; Church of the Brethren Illinois Senior High Camp; Mike Garner; Polo Church of the Brethren; and Richard and Joyce Person.
August and September thank yous for food, lodging, etc., to: Franklin Grove Church of Brethren; Dale Erisman; Lelia Place; Ruth and Lloyd Shipman; Judd and Kay Peter; Christ Connections Community Church; Jeff Rugg; Ginger Florence; Dennis Webb; Naperville Church of the Brethren; Ron Olsen; Jim, Elvira, Elizabeth, and Nate Lawdenski; Faith Church of the Brethren; Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford; Ralph Miner; Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren; Jeanne Ardith Davies; York Center Church of the Brethren; Carolyn, Mike, Hannah, Jonah, and Renee Neher; Douglas Park Church of the Brethren; Shirley Petracek; Christian Peacemakers Team; Chicago Fourth Presbyterian Church; Richard Williams; Allison Hutchinson; Chicago First Church of the Brethren; Orlando Redekopp; Barb Dugan; Ruth from Monee (Gas City); Zion Lutheran Church of Chebanse; Ryan from Buckley; Rex Richardson; Margaret Hicks; Champaign Church of the Brethren; J.P. from Paris; Jim Clark; Oak Grove Federated Church; David and Vicky Johnston; Allison Prairie Church of the Brethren; Tim and Dottie Ridgely; Eric Poole; Walnut Grove Church of the Brethren; Pat Rothrock; Debbie Baker; Sharon and Gene Gardner; Kenny Rutherford; Martin Creek Church of the Brethren; Carson and Donna Tullis; Hurricane Creek Church of the Brethren; Tom and Linda Dooley; Marlene Carpenter; Charlene and Bud Leitch; Carlyle United Methodist Church; Guy Ball; Christi, Jeremiah, Jacob, Blake, and Nikki Aeschleman; and Vienna First United Methodist Church.
Special thank yous to: Keith Cummins and Julie for teeth cleaning; Dale Sesse for glasses; Eric Volkel-Barno for typing, emailing, and CD work; Phil Miller for a haircut; Chuck Pomazal for a new reflective vest; Pat Ball for medical help; Jeanne Ardith Davies for typing and emailing; Carol and Darrell Needham for shoes, pair #10; Jewel McNary for maps; Kenny Rutherford for a watch; Carson Tullis for new glasses; Christi Aeschleman for typing and emailing; Ed Garrison and Clarene Dunn for initial church contacts.
A double thank you to all of those I have forgotten to thank.
All kinds of people walked with me in Illinois. Dan McFadden of the Highland Avenue Congregation upped his record for the most miles walked across America to 92. Annie Sales of the Franklin Grove Congregation walked 42, the second most. Guy Ball of the Dixon Congregation is in third with 39. Jim Batterman formerly of the Woodlands Congregation, and now residing in Houston, Texas is in fifth with 26. Camp Emmaus in rural Mt. Morris was the sight of the most at one time to ever walk with me, 91 campers and counselors from the Senior High Camp!!!!! And the Junior High Camp included 45, good for third place all time. I am grateful for all that walked with me. I am even more grateful to those who carried my pack on their back.
And then there is my good friend Barb Dugan who drove from Pennsylvania to walk with me. This was a huge treat. But as usual the huge majority of the time I walked without human companionship.
Illinois had skyscrapers, the tallest of the walk. Such riches tied up in buildings in corporate America. Illinois yielded the second most money from their streets and highways. It was everywhere. Poverty abounded in much of the state too.
Law enforcement was as ornery as the weather. The general public was more ornery than not. There was more Church of the Brethren rejections in Illinois than the prior three plus years west of the Mississippi. It is a wonderful feeling when I know there is at least floor space at night for this homeless person. I have a hard time when we put politics, busyness, selfishness and other excuses above sharing a sleeping space with a Christian brother.
Illinois began after crossing the Mississippi River for the third time and ended when the walk crossed the Ohio River for the first time into Kentucky. I am glad this state is over.
Don
Don Vermilyea's Reflections
October 2005
Dear Friends
For only the second summer of the four walked, wild fruit was plentiful. The early fruits (blackberries and raspberries) mostly dried up, but the apples were abundant from wild trees. There was even a peach tree with golf ball size fruits on the ground. Man they were good!
Illinois was brutal hot and humid for the entire four months the walk was there, except for about ten days. This makes three summers out of four with well above normal temperatures. Fifty degrees is a nice temperature for me, eighty is very hot to walk and sixty-five and above at night means sleep is accomplished in sweat. But… it didn't rain much, bad for farmers and good for me.
Church of the Brethren and others hospitality was excellent for the most part. This is the largest thank you section so far. June and July thank yous for food, lodging, etc., to: Karen, Charley, and Kenny Bridges; Jim and Becky Griffen; Howard Schockey; Tony Saputo; Dale, Penny, Courtney, Sammy, Evan, Andrae, and Brenden Dinterman; LaPlace Church of the Brethren; Jodie, Derek, Torie, Josiah, and Isacc Agar; Bill Nickerson; Becky from the Salvation Army; Eric Volkel-Barno, Melinda, and Andrew Barno; Terry Link; Marsha, Allen, and Emily Krall; Kres, Elizabeth, and Becka Lipscomb; Springfield First Church of the Brethren; Fletcher Farrar and Mary Jessup; Jan Stoller; Joan Boatz; Astoria Church of the Brethren; Gary Schultz; Woodlands Church of the Brethren; Jeanine and Ernie Shanks; Camp Emmanuel; Debbie Taylor and Love Community Church; Tammy and Kevin Kessler; Canton Church of the Brethren; Virgina Everist; David Radcliff; Larry and Barbara O'Neil; Chris, Jenny, and Molly Stover-Brown; Hannah Edwards; Amy Heckert; John and Michelle Elder; Leonard, Vicky, and Wendy Matheny; Peoria First Church of the Brethren; Christine Hoecker; Dana McNeil; Church of the Brethren General Board; Marilyn Kiefaber; Peter Yordy; Philip and Peggy Yordy; Panther Creek Church of the Brethren; Annie and Jerry Sales; St. James Evangelical Congregational Church; Dan McFadden; Judy and Neil Brinkmeir; Harry and Cindy Wilkinson; Anna Pomazal; Chuck and Jane Pomazal; Dixon Church of the Brethren; Dale and Alice Wickert; Pat Ball; Camp Emmaus; Church of the Brethren Illinois Junior High Camp; Jim Miner; Barb, Tim, Alex, and Cheyenne Krehl; Uldine Baker; Dean and Sue Coppernoll; Pat and Earl Miller; Yellow Creek, Freeport, and Rockford First Church's of the Brethren; Church of the Brethren Illinois Senior High Camp; Mike Garner; Polo Church of the Brethren; and Richard and Joyce Person.
August and September thank yous for food, lodging, etc., to: Franklin Grove Church of Brethren; Dale Erisman; Lelia Place; Ruth and Lloyd Shipman; Judd and Kay Peter; Christ Connections Community Church; Jeff Rugg; Ginger Florence; Dennis Webb; Naperville Church of the Brethren; Ron Olsen; Jim, Elvira, Elizabeth, and Nate Lawdenski; Faith Church of the Brethren; Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford; Ralph Miner; Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren; Jeanne Ardith Davies; York Center Church of the Brethren; Carolyn, Mike, Hannah, Jonah, and Renee Neher; Douglas Park Church of the Brethren; Shirley Petracek; Christian Peacemakers Team; Chicago Fourth Presbyterian Church; Richard Williams; Allison Hutchinson; Chicago First Church of the Brethren; Orlando Redekopp; Barb Dugan; Ruth from Monee (Gas City); Zion Lutheran Church of Chebanse; Ryan from Buckley; Rex Richardson; Margaret Hicks; Champaign Church of the Brethren; J.P. from Paris; Jim Clark; Oak Grove Federated Church; David and Vicky Johnston; Allison Prairie Church of the Brethren; Tim and Dottie Ridgely; Eric Poole; Walnut Grove Church of the Brethren; Pat Rothrock; Debbie Baker; Sharon and Gene Gardner; Kenny Rutherford; Martin Creek Church of the Brethren; Carson and Donna Tullis; Hurricane Creek Church of the Brethren; Tom and Linda Dooley; Marlene Carpenter; Charlene and Bud Leitch; Carlyle United Methodist Church; Guy Ball; Christi, Jeremiah, Jacob, Blake, and Nikki Aeschleman; and Vienna First United Methodist Church.
Special thank yous to: Keith Cummins and Julie for teeth cleaning; Dale Sesse for glasses; Eric Volkel-Barno for typing, emailing, and CD work; Phil Miller for a haircut; Chuck Pomazal for a new reflective vest; Pat Ball for medical help; Jeanne Ardith Davies for typing and emailing; Carol and Darrell Needham for shoes, pair #10; Jewel McNary for maps; Kenny Rutherford for a watch; Carson Tullis for new glasses; Christi Aeschleman for typing and emailing; Ed Garrison and Clarene Dunn for initial church contacts.
A double thank you to all of those I have forgotten to thank.
All kinds of people walked with me in Illinois. Dan McFadden of the Highland Avenue Congregation upped his record for the most miles walked across America to 92. Annie Sales of the Franklin Grove Congregation walked 42, the second most. Guy Ball of the Dixon Congregation is in third with 39. Jim Batterman formerly of the Woodlands Congregation, and now residing in Houston, Texas is in fifth with 26. Camp Emmaus in rural Mt. Morris was the sight of the most at one time to ever walk with me, 91 campers and counselors from the Senior High Camp!!!!! And the Junior High Camp included 45, good for third place all time. I am grateful for all that walked with me. I am even more grateful to those who carried my pack on their back.
And then there is my good friend Barb Dugan who drove from Pennsylvania to walk with me. This was a huge treat. But as usual the huge majority of the time I walked without human companionship.
Illinois had skyscrapers, the tallest of the walk. Such riches tied up in buildings in corporate America. Illinois yielded the second most money from their streets and highways. It was everywhere. Poverty abounded in much of the state too.
Law enforcement was as ornery as the weather. The general public was more ornery than not. There was more Church of the Brethren rejections in Illinois than the prior three plus years west of the Mississippi. It is a wonderful feeling when I know there is at least floor space at night for this homeless person. I have a hard time when we put politics, busyness, selfishness and other excuses above sharing a sleeping space with a Christian brother.
Illinois began after crossing the Mississippi River for the third time and ended when the walk crossed the Ohio River for the first time into Kentucky. I am glad this state is over.
Illinois StatsIn Christ's Love,
May 29 2005 - October 03, 2005
71 nights hosted
56 nights homeless
1393 miles were walked
Don
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
Chicago youth hear truth from Sergeant Abe.
With its young folks on the receiving end of a slick and aggressive nationwide military recruiting drive, members of First Church of the Brethren in Chicago, Ill., brought in their own recruiter: Sergeant Abe.
A creation of Quaker House in Fayetteville, N.C.--neighbor to Fort Bragg, one of the world's largest military complexes--"Sgt. Abe, the Honest Recruiter" appears overlaid on a copy of a conscription agreement. He points out key details that recruiters often fail to mention, such as non-negotiable extensions of deployment, and explains what they can mean in a soldier's life.
Sgt. Abe was just one of many tools employed during an afternoon workshop held at the church on the International Day of Peace, Sept. 21, said Duane Ediger in a report from the event. To open the session, participants shared their connections with the military. Several offered stories of deep suffering by friends and family with combat-induced Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. They also heard personal experiences of peacemaking in war zones, saw a video featuring interviews of enlistees, were given forms to fill out to help establish a claim of conscientious objection in case a military draft is reinstated, and learned that it is possible--even easy--to back out of a commitment to the Delayed Entry Program.
The 22 participants included seven youth--three regulars at First Church with four of their friends--several adult members of First Church, a chaplain from the neighboring Bethany Hospital, a South African visitor, a Mennonite pastor, a Voluntary Service worker with youth organizing for peace, and other local community organizers. Doug Hostetter, peace minister of Evanston (Ill.) Mennonite Church, and experienced draft counselor Rich Rutschman led the session.
The church served pizza and soft drinks after the 90-minute workshop and participants were invited to stay for the evening Bible study on the related theme of "The Healing Power of Nonviolence/Love" led by First Church pastor Orlando Redekopp.
"Sergeant Abe, the Honest Recruiter" is downloadable as a pdf file from www.quakerhouse.org.
Source: 10/12/2005 Newsline
With its young folks on the receiving end of a slick and aggressive nationwide military recruiting drive, members of First Church of the Brethren in Chicago, Ill., brought in their own recruiter: Sergeant Abe.
A creation of Quaker House in Fayetteville, N.C.--neighbor to Fort Bragg, one of the world's largest military complexes--"Sgt. Abe, the Honest Recruiter" appears overlaid on a copy of a conscription agreement. He points out key details that recruiters often fail to mention, such as non-negotiable extensions of deployment, and explains what they can mean in a soldier's life.
Sgt. Abe was just one of many tools employed during an afternoon workshop held at the church on the International Day of Peace, Sept. 21, said Duane Ediger in a report from the event. To open the session, participants shared their connections with the military. Several offered stories of deep suffering by friends and family with combat-induced Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. They also heard personal experiences of peacemaking in war zones, saw a video featuring interviews of enlistees, were given forms to fill out to help establish a claim of conscientious objection in case a military draft is reinstated, and learned that it is possible--even easy--to back out of a commitment to the Delayed Entry Program.
The 22 participants included seven youth--three regulars at First Church with four of their friends--several adult members of First Church, a chaplain from the neighboring Bethany Hospital, a South African visitor, a Mennonite pastor, a Voluntary Service worker with youth organizing for peace, and other local community organizers. Doug Hostetter, peace minister of Evanston (Ill.) Mennonite Church, and experienced draft counselor Rich Rutschman led the session.
The church served pizza and soft drinks after the 90-minute workshop and participants were invited to stay for the evening Bible study on the related theme of "The Healing Power of Nonviolence/Love" led by First Church pastor Orlando Redekopp.
"Sergeant Abe, the Honest Recruiter" is downloadable as a pdf file from www.quakerhouse.org.
Source: 10/12/2005 Newsline
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
Sailing to NYC on a sea of chicken soup.
...At least, that's what Linda K. Williams, of First Church of the Brethren in San Diego, Calif., hopes and prays will happen for the youth in the Church of the Brethren.
Williams has spent more than five-and-a-half years "birthing" the new Chicken Soup for the Soul book--"Stories for a Better World"--which includes more than 101 stories of peacemaking. She now wants to get it into the hands of everyone on the planet, she says, especially Brethren youth. The new book is highlighted in the September issue of the Church of the Brethren "Messenger" magazine. Twenty percent of the stories and four of the 11 cartoons came from people with Historic Peace Church connections.
Williams felt compelled to bring stories of peacemaking into the national consciousness via the Chicken Soup for the Soul venue in response to the murder of an elderly relative, and then the Columbine High School shootings. She has already received evidence that peacemaking can be very effectively promoted by touching the hearts of readers. In one example, a friend had been outspoken about the need for retaliation and revenge after the events of 9/11. When Williams needed volunteer readers to help rate stories for the new book, she felt God urging her to ask this friend if she would be interested. After her friend read and rated several batches of the powerful stories, Williams expressed her appreciation. Her friend replied, "No, I need to thank you; by reading these stories, I've seen there are so many ways to deal with violence!"
Williams now has arranged to offer the book at a substantial discount of more than 50 percent off the $12.95 selling price so that churches and youth groups can use it as a fundraiser for National Youth Conference in 2006. Churches and other nonprofit groups may also do other fundraising using the book. An additional option exists of becoming an "Amazon Associate" with a no-effort way to earn four to 10 percent of the book's sales price by simply putting it on an organization's website and encouraging buyers to order the book from the site.
For more information about fundraising opportunities contact Williams at LKW_BetterWorld@yahoo.com or 619-583-8454.
Source: 9/28/2005 Newsline
Update From The District Youth Cabinet
Greetings! Here is an update from the district youth cabinet,
The cabinet met in August to choose members for the 2005-2006 cabinet. Three seniors departed from this past year. Seven new members were selected: Allison Gibble, St. Charles (Highland Ave.); Daniel Brumbaugh Keeney, Elgin (Highland Ave.); Cassidy McFadden, Elgin (Highland Ave.); Megan McNeil, Peoria (Peoria); Elyce Naylon, Polo (Elyce isn't Brethren, but has come to camp regularly and had a Brethren sponsor for her Cabinet application); Megan Patterson, Milledgeville (Milledgeville/Dutchtown); Laura Thompson, Batavia (Faith).
Other members of the cabinet are Nathan Benassi (Winnebago), Steve Christian (Naperville), Keegan Condon (Naperville), Meghan Dahl (Elgin), Carol Fike (Polo), James Gibble-Keenan (Elgin), Scott Heimerdinger (Pearl City), Alex Otake (Lombard), and Lisa Thompson (Batavia).
The cabinet has agreed to donate the pitcher created for the district for the 2002 NYC to this year's district conference silent auction.
Becca Lipscomb from Springfield becomes president for 2005-6. Other officers will be selected at our next meeting on Sept. 17 at Naperville. Our cabinet planning retreat comes in October. District youth retreat will run concurrently with District Conference, in Springfield. Roger Schrock is our guest/keynote leader.
Dates/site for the spring retreat are not yet set. Another big project for the year is arranging transportation for the district to the 2006 National Youth Conference (July 22-27, Ft. Collins, Colo.). Walt Wiltschek will coordinate that..
This summer a number of District youth went on denominational workcamps. Many were at Annual Conference in Peoria. More than 70 youth attended senior high camp at Camp Emmaus as well as the Youth Peace Travel Team and Don Vermilyea. It was a wonderful week!
Walt Wiltschek
Source: October 2005 Illinois/Wisconsin District Newsletter
Greetings! Here is an update from the district youth cabinet,
The cabinet met in August to choose members for the 2005-2006 cabinet. Three seniors departed from this past year. Seven new members were selected: Allison Gibble, St. Charles (Highland Ave.); Daniel Brumbaugh Keeney, Elgin (Highland Ave.); Cassidy McFadden, Elgin (Highland Ave.); Megan McNeil, Peoria (Peoria); Elyce Naylon, Polo (Elyce isn't Brethren, but has come to camp regularly and had a Brethren sponsor for her Cabinet application); Megan Patterson, Milledgeville (Milledgeville/Dutchtown); Laura Thompson, Batavia (Faith).
Other members of the cabinet are Nathan Benassi (Winnebago), Steve Christian (Naperville), Keegan Condon (Naperville), Meghan Dahl (Elgin), Carol Fike (Polo), James Gibble-Keenan (Elgin), Scott Heimerdinger (Pearl City), Alex Otake (Lombard), and Lisa Thompson (Batavia).
The cabinet has agreed to donate the pitcher created for the district for the 2002 NYC to this year's district conference silent auction.
Becca Lipscomb from Springfield becomes president for 2005-6. Other officers will be selected at our next meeting on Sept. 17 at Naperville. Our cabinet planning retreat comes in October. District youth retreat will run concurrently with District Conference, in Springfield. Roger Schrock is our guest/keynote leader.
Dates/site for the spring retreat are not yet set. Another big project for the year is arranging transportation for the district to the 2006 National Youth Conference (July 22-27, Ft. Collins, Colo.). Walt Wiltschek will coordinate that..
This summer a number of District youth went on denominational workcamps. Many were at Annual Conference in Peoria. More than 70 youth attended senior high camp at Camp Emmaus as well as the Youth Peace Travel Team and Don Vermilyea. It was a wonderful week!
Walt Wiltschek
Source: October 2005 Illinois/Wisconsin District Newsletter
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Junior High Sunday
Nov. 6 is Junior High Sunday in the Church of the Brethren. The theme comes from Hebrews 10:24, "Provoke One Another to Love and Good Deeds." Graphics, a Bible study, worship resources and ideas, a skit, and more are available at www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/YouthSundayJ.htm. Materials will not be mailed to congregations but are in PDF format for printing from the website.
source: 9/14/2005 Newsline
Nov. 6 is Junior High Sunday in the Church of the Brethren. The theme comes from Hebrews 10:24, "Provoke One Another to Love and Good Deeds." Graphics, a Bible study, worship resources and ideas, a skit, and more are available at www.brethren.org/genbd/yya/YouthSundayJ.htm. Materials will not be mailed to congregations but are in PDF format for printing from the website.
source: 9/14/2005 Newsline
Youth Peace Travel Team completes tour.The 2005 Youth Peace Travel Team has completed its summer tour of eight camps in the east and midwest, and a visit to Annual Conference. The program was first formed in 1991 as a cooperative effort of a number of General Board programs, with a new team fielded each year. Sponsors now include On Earth Peace, the Outdoor Ministries Association, and the General Board's Brethren Witness/Washington Office, Brethren Volunteer Service, and Youth and Young Adult Ministry.
Team members for 2005 were Nicole Fowler of First Church of the Brethren, Roanoke, Va.; Rachel McFadden of Manchester Church of the Brethren, North Manchester, Ind.; Ben Bear of Nokesville (Va.) Church of the Brethren; and Ben Ritchey Martin of Grossnickle Church of the Brethren, Myersville, Md. They began the summer with a Ministry Summer Service orientation at Bethany Theological Seminary and a team orientation at Inspiration Hills in Burbank, Ohio.
The team led peace education for youth at camps including Brethren Heights, Camp Ithiel, Camp Mack, Woodland Altars, Camp Emmaus, Camp Blue Diamond, and Shepherd's Spring, and during Annual Conference. At the camps, the four young adults led workshops, discussions, and activities such as morning watch. They also had the opportunity to get to know campers and the surrounding natural landscape. "They learned about themselves and how they work in groups," said Susanna Farahat of On Earth Peace.
Farahat worked with the team during its debriefing at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., Aug. 12-14. "They learned a lot about community," she said. Each week, the team held a "family meeting" to discuss situations that occurred during the week. Those meetings, as well as speaking in front of larger gatherings, helped develop interpersonal communication and leadership skills. "They all got more comfortable in front of groups," Farahat said.
At Annual Conference, the team spoke at an insight session on "Teaching Peace to Youth." They also led workshops for senior high youth, supported various agencies' booths, and talked with Conference guests. The Youth Peace Travel Team spent much of its time on issues of social justice and also learning about the range of beliefs in the Church of the Brethren. "We're all Brethren, and although we all read the Bible, we're all reading it in different ways," noted Farahat. "I think that was new for them."
Young adults age 18-22 interested in being considered for next summer's Youth Peace Travel Team can obtain an application at www.brethren.org/genbd/WitnessWashOffice.html or call 800-785-3246.
source: 9/14/2005 Newsline
Regional Junior High Conference
The Regional Junior High Conference scheduled for Sept. 30-Oct. 2 will be the first of its kind in the Church of the Brethren, reported Chris Douglas of the General Board's Youth and Young Adult Ministries. The conference at New Windsor, Md., is co-sponsored by the General Board and eight districts in the eastern part of the US. Registration already is closed because the maximum attendance of 240 people has been reached. Those who are registered are urged to bring Gift of the Heart Health Kits for the Sunday morning offering, when Annual Conference moderator-elect Belita Mitchell is preaching. An e-mail to conference participants asked them to go to www.brethrenjrhigh.org for information on making kits.
source: 9/14/2005 Newsline
The Regional Junior High Conference scheduled for Sept. 30-Oct. 2 will be the first of its kind in the Church of the Brethren, reported Chris Douglas of the General Board's Youth and Young Adult Ministries. The conference at New Windsor, Md., is co-sponsored by the General Board and eight districts in the eastern part of the US. Registration already is closed because the maximum attendance of 240 people has been reached. Those who are registered are urged to bring Gift of the Heart Health Kits for the Sunday morning offering, when Annual Conference moderator-elect Belita Mitchell is preaching. An e-mail to conference participants asked them to go to www.brethrenjrhigh.org for information on making kits.
source: 9/14/2005 Newsline
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Youth Lead Hurricane Relief Challenge
COLUMBIA CITY (IND.) CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN
It was Sunday, Sept. 4, the weekend following a devastating hurricane and flooding in the South. Worship was underway in this small Northern Indiana congregation far from the impact of the storm. The worship leader was planning to come to the podium with a prepared offertory statement. But before that could happen, three youth came forward to make a special announcement.
"Today, we would like to announce that the junior and senior high youth have decided to donate money to the hurricane relief fund," came the words of Kaitlyn Hearld, Deanna Beckner and Carmen Metzger, three seventh grade youth of the church. They continued, "The junior high has decided to donate all of its money, $500, and the senior high said that they would match whatever we decided to donate." They then challenged the congregation to match the funds given by the youth.
"Following worship I had a member of the congregation say he and his wife would match the entire $1,000 challenge the youth brought," said pastor Dennis Beckner. Other smaller donations were given for a total $2,182 in the first of four planned collections during the month of September. Pastor Beckner identified that the early outcome of this challenge sounded like Jesus’ words to the disciples in Matthew 18 where he advised the disciples that they would not enter the kingdom of heaven unless they change and become like little children.
Although these children aren’t so little any more, they definitely are to be taken seriously and are driven to do what is right. The youth have been raising money through fundraisers, selling lemon shake-ups at a car show, hosting several garage sales and a silent auction, and selling Papa Johns and Subway cards. More fundraising events are planned. The funds are being raised as both groups plan a major event the summer of 2006. The junior highs are planning a mission trip while the senior highs will be attending the Church of the Brethren National Youth Conference in Colorado. Each group has exceeded early expectations in their fundraising efforts and had planned to use excess funds for a ski trip, weekend outings, and other fun events.
The youth recognized their successes in their statement Sunday morning. "Over the past few months the junior and senior high have worked very hard to earn the money that we are donating, but we feel that God is telling us that giving these people another chance at life is much more important than going skiing or to Bear Creek Farms," Kaitlyn Hearld continued. The junior and senior high youth had discussed with youth advisor, Cara Hoppe, prior to the beginning of worship that they wanted to do something to help those in need following the disaster. The Columbia City Church of the Brethren had already planned to ask members of the church to donate to the Emergency Disaster Fund of the Church of the Brethren General Board. This fund supports the efforts of the Disaster Child Care and Emergency Response/Service Ministries of the Church of the Brethren.
Pastor Beckner recalled times when he has been a part of other disaster response work projects supported by this fund. "My wife and I accompanied youth from another congregation to Alabama and Oregon back in the 1990s for disaster response. We worked side by side working on homes that had been damaged by storms, cleaning a school that had been flooded, and helping to restore some normalcy to people’s lives. And those projects were so small in scale compared to the effects of Hurricane Katrina. We have to help now with our funds, later with our skills and abilities, and always with our prayers." Pastor Beckner’s sister is a volunteer with Disaster Child Care. These volunteers work hand-in-hand with the American Red Cross in providing child care for parents who need time to process paper work and spend time at work sites during the clean-up process.
The youth challenge other area congregations and others in the Columbia City community to answer this challenge to give. To make a donation to the Emergency Disaster Fund you may send a check to the Columbia City Church of the Brethren, 112 N Washington St, Columbia City, IN 46725 or you may go online to and click on "Responding to Hurricane Katrina" (www.brethren.org.) For further information call the church office at 260-244-6278.
COLUMBIA CITY (IND.) CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN
It was Sunday, Sept. 4, the weekend following a devastating hurricane and flooding in the South. Worship was underway in this small Northern Indiana congregation far from the impact of the storm. The worship leader was planning to come to the podium with a prepared offertory statement. But before that could happen, three youth came forward to make a special announcement.
"Today, we would like to announce that the junior and senior high youth have decided to donate money to the hurricane relief fund," came the words of Kaitlyn Hearld, Deanna Beckner and Carmen Metzger, three seventh grade youth of the church. They continued, "The junior high has decided to donate all of its money, $500, and the senior high said that they would match whatever we decided to donate." They then challenged the congregation to match the funds given by the youth.
"Following worship I had a member of the congregation say he and his wife would match the entire $1,000 challenge the youth brought," said pastor Dennis Beckner. Other smaller donations were given for a total $2,182 in the first of four planned collections during the month of September. Pastor Beckner identified that the early outcome of this challenge sounded like Jesus’ words to the disciples in Matthew 18 where he advised the disciples that they would not enter the kingdom of heaven unless they change and become like little children.
Although these children aren’t so little any more, they definitely are to be taken seriously and are driven to do what is right. The youth have been raising money through fundraisers, selling lemon shake-ups at a car show, hosting several garage sales and a silent auction, and selling Papa Johns and Subway cards. More fundraising events are planned. The funds are being raised as both groups plan a major event the summer of 2006. The junior highs are planning a mission trip while the senior highs will be attending the Church of the Brethren National Youth Conference in Colorado. Each group has exceeded early expectations in their fundraising efforts and had planned to use excess funds for a ski trip, weekend outings, and other fun events.
The youth recognized their successes in their statement Sunday morning. "Over the past few months the junior and senior high have worked very hard to earn the money that we are donating, but we feel that God is telling us that giving these people another chance at life is much more important than going skiing or to Bear Creek Farms," Kaitlyn Hearld continued. The junior and senior high youth had discussed with youth advisor, Cara Hoppe, prior to the beginning of worship that they wanted to do something to help those in need following the disaster. The Columbia City Church of the Brethren had already planned to ask members of the church to donate to the Emergency Disaster Fund of the Church of the Brethren General Board. This fund supports the efforts of the Disaster Child Care and Emergency Response/Service Ministries of the Church of the Brethren.
Pastor Beckner recalled times when he has been a part of other disaster response work projects supported by this fund. "My wife and I accompanied youth from another congregation to Alabama and Oregon back in the 1990s for disaster response. We worked side by side working on homes that had been damaged by storms, cleaning a school that had been flooded, and helping to restore some normalcy to people’s lives. And those projects were so small in scale compared to the effects of Hurricane Katrina. We have to help now with our funds, later with our skills and abilities, and always with our prayers." Pastor Beckner’s sister is a volunteer with Disaster Child Care. These volunteers work hand-in-hand with the American Red Cross in providing child care for parents who need time to process paper work and spend time at work sites during the clean-up process.
The youth challenge other area congregations and others in the Columbia City community to answer this challenge to give. To make a donation to the Emergency Disaster Fund you may send a check to the Columbia City Church of the Brethren, 112 N Washington St, Columbia City, IN 46725 or you may go online to and click on "Responding to Hurricane Katrina" (www.brethren.org.) For further information call the church office at 260-244-6278.
National Youth Conference 2006
“National Youth Conference 2006 is starting to take shape!” reports Emily Tyler, one of the three coordinators of the 2006 National Youth Conference (NYC) along with Cindy Laprade and Beth Rhodes.
NYC will be held July 22-27, in Fort Collins, Colo., on the campus of Colorado State University. Youth who have completed ninth grade through one year of college and accompanied by an adult advisor are eligible to attend.
To help preview activities for this NYC, each congregation was sent a promotional DVD; also check the website (www.nyc2006.org) for updates.
The theme, “Come and See,” is based on John 1:35-39.
“When the disciples asked Jesus where he was staying, instead of telling them, he invited them to ‘come and see,’” the coordinators report. “This is in keeping with Church of the Brethren heritage; letting actions speak louder than words. By inviting the disciples to come and see, Jesus called them to a disciple’s life. NYC is the youth of the denomination’s invitation to come and see who God is calling them to become as individuals, as disciples of Christ, as the Church of the Brethren, and as God’s people living in a broken world.”
Registrations for NYC will be accepted on-line from Jan. 1-April 3, 2006. Cost per person is $400, including all programs, lodging, and food. A deposit of $200 must be paid when registering, with the balance due by April 3, 2006. Register before Feb. 15 and receive a free t-shirt!
Don’t forget:
“National Youth Conference 2006 is starting to take shape!” reports Emily Tyler, one of the three coordinators of the 2006 National Youth Conference (NYC) along with Cindy Laprade and Beth Rhodes.
NYC will be held July 22-27, in Fort Collins, Colo., on the campus of Colorado State University. Youth who have completed ninth grade through one year of college and accompanied by an adult advisor are eligible to attend.
To help preview activities for this NYC, each congregation was sent a promotional DVD; also check the website (www.nyc2006.org) for updates.
The theme, “Come and See,” is based on John 1:35-39.
“When the disciples asked Jesus where he was staying, instead of telling them, he invited them to ‘come and see,’” the coordinators report. “This is in keeping with Church of the Brethren heritage; letting actions speak louder than words. By inviting the disciples to come and see, Jesus called them to a disciple’s life. NYC is the youth of the denomination’s invitation to come and see who God is calling them to become as individuals, as disciples of Christ, as the Church of the Brethren, and as God’s people living in a broken world.”
Registrations for NYC will be accepted on-line from Jan. 1-April 3, 2006. Cost per person is $400, including all programs, lodging, and food. A deposit of $200 must be paid when registering, with the balance due by April 3, 2006. Register before Feb. 15 and receive a free t-shirt!
Don’t forget:
- Youth Speech Contest: Youth are invited to write a 550-700 word (about 10 min. spoken) speech focusing on the NYC theme. The two top entrants will give their speeches during a worship service at NYC. Entries, including both a written and an audio copy, are due Jan. 1, 2006.
- Theme Song Contest: Anyone interested in writing music and lyrics may enter a song based on the NYC theme. The entry that is chosen will serve as the theme song for NYC 2006. Submissions, including both a printed and audio copy, are due Nov. 1.
- Youth Worker Applications: Application forms are ready and waiting to be sent to those interested in volunteering. Contact the NYC Office: 800-323-8039, or nyc_gb@brethren.org.
Friday, September 02, 2005
MC offers campus, collects funds, blood for Katrina victims
Manchester College is offering its campus – and special arrangements – to students whose colleges or universities are closed because of Hurricane Katrina. In addition, the Manchester College community is uniting to raise funds and donate blood for the victims of the disaster – and is inviting its neighbors to join the relief effort.
The liberal arts college will speed financial aid packaging and course registration, and waive application and late-registration fees to the transfer students, said David F. McFadden, executive vice president. The offer is extended to students already admitted or enrolled in four-year baccalaureate colleges or universities closed by the hurricane and resulting flooding.
The college will work with students on a case-by-case basis, McFadden said. If the advance work is completed by Sept. 9, the students can begin classes no later than Sept. 12. MC classes began Aug. 31.
Meanwhile, Manchester is collecting monetary donations in collaboration with Church of the Brethren and Church World Service. The Brethren Service Center already has shipped 5,000 blankets, 5,000 emergency kits and $15,000 in its intent to provide at least $300,000 in initial aid to the Hurricane Katrina disaster area.
Manchester will collect cash or check donations in its campus business office and forward them to the Church of the Brethren emergency Disaster Fund. Persons from outside the College are welcome – and encouraged – to donate through this effort.
Manchester is a college of the Church of the Brethren, a denomination experienced with long-term disaster relief. “The Brethren emergency response systems have provided monetary relief, assistance from volunteers who help with rebuilding, and extensive child care in emergency shelters for decades,” notes MC President Jo Young Switzer. “The fund has exceptionally low overhead, so donations make a huge impact.”
In addition, the college is working with the Red Cross to conduct a special blood drive on Tuesday, Sept. 20. The event, organized by the campus Office of Volunteer Services, will be 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the College Union, lower level. The community is invited.
Additional campus fund-raisers are in the works, including collections at athletic events (beginning with the home football game Saturday, Sept. 3) and by Campus Ministry. The college also hopes to organize student events that encourage students to reduce their driving and redirect that gasoline money for the relief efforts, President Switzer said.
“We thank those who are stepping forward to support those affected by this catastrophe,” she said. “The impact on their lives reminds us of the fragility of our lives and the precious privileges that we too often take for granted.”
To donate, visit the campus business office or send checks to Disaster Relief, Business Office, Manchester College, 604 E. College Ave., North Manchester, IN 46962. Please make checks to Emergency Disaster Fund. The donations are tax-deductible. For more information on the Church of the Brethren Emergency Response Fund, see www.brethren.org/genbd/ersm/
For more about the special enrollment of students affected by Hurricane Katrina, contact McFadden at dfm@manchester.edu or 800-852-3648. For more about Manchester College, visit www.manchester.edu
source: Manchester College
Manchester College is offering its campus – and special arrangements – to students whose colleges or universities are closed because of Hurricane Katrina. In addition, the Manchester College community is uniting to raise funds and donate blood for the victims of the disaster – and is inviting its neighbors to join the relief effort.
The liberal arts college will speed financial aid packaging and course registration, and waive application and late-registration fees to the transfer students, said David F. McFadden, executive vice president. The offer is extended to students already admitted or enrolled in four-year baccalaureate colleges or universities closed by the hurricane and resulting flooding.
The college will work with students on a case-by-case basis, McFadden said. If the advance work is completed by Sept. 9, the students can begin classes no later than Sept. 12. MC classes began Aug. 31.
Meanwhile, Manchester is collecting monetary donations in collaboration with Church of the Brethren and Church World Service. The Brethren Service Center already has shipped 5,000 blankets, 5,000 emergency kits and $15,000 in its intent to provide at least $300,000 in initial aid to the Hurricane Katrina disaster area.
Manchester will collect cash or check donations in its campus business office and forward them to the Church of the Brethren emergency Disaster Fund. Persons from outside the College are welcome – and encouraged – to donate through this effort.
Manchester is a college of the Church of the Brethren, a denomination experienced with long-term disaster relief. “The Brethren emergency response systems have provided monetary relief, assistance from volunteers who help with rebuilding, and extensive child care in emergency shelters for decades,” notes MC President Jo Young Switzer. “The fund has exceptionally low overhead, so donations make a huge impact.”
In addition, the college is working with the Red Cross to conduct a special blood drive on Tuesday, Sept. 20. The event, organized by the campus Office of Volunteer Services, will be 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the College Union, lower level. The community is invited.
Additional campus fund-raisers are in the works, including collections at athletic events (beginning with the home football game Saturday, Sept. 3) and by Campus Ministry. The college also hopes to organize student events that encourage students to reduce their driving and redirect that gasoline money for the relief efforts, President Switzer said.
“We thank those who are stepping forward to support those affected by this catastrophe,” she said. “The impact on their lives reminds us of the fragility of our lives and the precious privileges that we too often take for granted.”
To donate, visit the campus business office or send checks to Disaster Relief, Business Office, Manchester College, 604 E. College Ave., North Manchester, IN 46962. Please make checks to Emergency Disaster Fund. The donations are tax-deductible. For more information on the Church of the Brethren Emergency Response Fund, see www.brethren.org/genbd/ersm/
For more about the special enrollment of students affected by Hurricane Katrina, contact McFadden at dfm@manchester.edu or 800-852-3648. For more about Manchester College, visit www.manchester.edu
source: Manchester College
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