Remember to observe National Youth Sunday on May 5. The theme this year is “In God’s Image” (2 Corinthians 3:18). Find worship resources online at www.brethren.org/yya/national-youth-sunday.html .
Source: 4/18/2013 Newsline
Thursday, April 18, 2013
3,000 miles campaign of On Earth Peace receives lots of support.
In a recent update on its 3,000 Miles for Peace campaign, On Earth
Peace reported that over 60 fundraisers are underway in support. As of
last week, over $80,000 has been raised for the Paul Ziegler Young
Peacemaker Fund. Twelve riding or walking events have already taken
place, and those taking part have already traveled more than 1,000 miles
toward the goal of 3,000 miles.
The 3,000 Miles for Peace campaign is a fundraiser for On Earth Peace
that honors young peacemaker Paul Ziegler who had the goal of bicycling
across the country--a distance of about 3000 miles--before he was
killed in an accident in Sept. 2012. “Together, we are fulfilling Paul's
vision,” On Earth Peace said in the update.
Headlining the campaign is a walking trek by On Earth Peace staff member and former director Bob Gross, who is on a 650-mile walk across the Midwest. Gross reported by telephone this week that as of April 17 he has covered 450 of those miles. He expected to walk to the Altoona area of Pennsylvania by today, and to be in Huntingdon and at Juniata College on the weekend.
A key event in the campaign happens on May 5, Ziegler’s birthday, at his home congregation at Elizabethtown (Pa.) Church of the Brethren. The church will host a “3KMP Celebration!” that Sunday from 5-6 p.m. (gathering music begins at 4:45). Gross will be welcomed to Elizabethtown as he completes his 650-mile walk and will share highlights of his journey from North Manchester, Ind. There also will be stories and pictures from other individuals and teams who have participated in the campaign and information about upcoming events in the remaining months of the campaign will be highlighted.
“May 5 would have been Paul Ziegler’s 20th birthday,” said pastor Pam Reist. “In honor of Paul and his passion for peace on earth, the celebration will conclude with birthday cake for all. Everyone is welcome to join the celebration!”
Elizabethtown Church of the Brethren is planning an additional event for all who wish to ride, walk, run, or even scooter “for Paul and for peace,” said an announcement from pastor Greg Davidson Laszakovits. Participants will gather at the Lancaster-Lebanon Rail trail on May 4, with registration starting at 9 a.m. and a send off at 10 a.m.cThe congregation has already raised over $2,000 towards a goal of $10,000.cTo join the effort, or for more information visit www.etowncob.org/3kmp.
Since the launch of the campaign on March 1, interest and participation has been steadily growing. Supporters and participants include bicyclers but also marathon runners, Appalachian Trail hikers, youth groups, canoers and kayakers, college students, weightlifters, congregations, and retirement communities.
Ideas for campaign events “are as diverse as our Beloved Community,” said the On Earth Peace update. A 12 year old at Beacon Heights Church of the Brethren in Ft. Wayne, Ind., walked while on his Spring Break. A 90-year-old resident of a retirement community in Virginia has contacted On Earth Peace to ask how she can get her community involved. Student groups at church-related schools including Manchester University, Juniata College, Elizabethtown College, and McPherson College all have events taking place.
Youth at the Southeast Regional Youth Conference (Roundtable) on March 23 used part of their free time to contribute to the campaign. Said participant Katie Furrow, "We walked through and around campus (at Bridgewater College in Virginia) with signs supporting peace activism and peace education. It was so exciting to see the interaction between the youth and the community as people and vehicles we passed would throw up peace signs, wave, or honk in our direction as we joyfully filed past!"
Also on March 23, Anna Lisa Gross and 14 others associated with Common Spirit Church of the Brethren or Living Table United Church of Christ circled Lake Calhoun and Lake of the Isles in Minneapolis, Minn., collectively walking 57 miles. They wore On Earth Peace's "When Jesus said love your enemies, I think he probably meant don't kill them" bumper stickers, and handed them out to interested onlookers.
Paul Fry-Miller, a member of Manchester Church of the Brethren, is planning a “paddle event” co-sponsored by the local Fellowship of Reconciliation. "We are planning a 5.5-mile afternoon float on the beautiful Eel River through North Manchester, Ind., that will include several stations along the way for brief stories and talks about peacemaking and our environment,” he told On Earth Peace. The Kenapocomoco Coalition members of Manchester University Peace Studies program will be camping out Friday night, April 26, in preparation for the float.
A group of bicyclists including denominational staff are planning a ride from the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., to Camp Emmaus in Mt. Morris, a 150-mile roundtrip to be accomplished over two days with an overnight at the camp. Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT) president Nevin Dulabaum is one of the organizers and has invited other interested cyclists to join the effort.
On Earth Peace recently hired a part-time campaign organizer, Becca DeWhitt, to help staff the campaign. The organization also is seeking volunteers gifted in publicity, social media, data management, or outreach, who may have connections to bike clubs, congregations, or campuses where a ride or walk for peacemaking might be held. A number of volunteer positions are available. Contact executive director Bill Scheurer at bill@onearthpeace.org.
For more information visit www.3000MilesforPeace.org. To hold a peace witness as part of the campaign, contact 3kmp@OnEarthPeace.org.
Source: 4/18/2013 Newsline
Headlining the campaign is a walking trek by On Earth Peace staff member and former director Bob Gross, who is on a 650-mile walk across the Midwest. Gross reported by telephone this week that as of April 17 he has covered 450 of those miles. He expected to walk to the Altoona area of Pennsylvania by today, and to be in Huntingdon and at Juniata College on the weekend.
A key event in the campaign happens on May 5, Ziegler’s birthday, at his home congregation at Elizabethtown (Pa.) Church of the Brethren. The church will host a “3KMP Celebration!” that Sunday from 5-6 p.m. (gathering music begins at 4:45). Gross will be welcomed to Elizabethtown as he completes his 650-mile walk and will share highlights of his journey from North Manchester, Ind. There also will be stories and pictures from other individuals and teams who have participated in the campaign and information about upcoming events in the remaining months of the campaign will be highlighted.
“May 5 would have been Paul Ziegler’s 20th birthday,” said pastor Pam Reist. “In honor of Paul and his passion for peace on earth, the celebration will conclude with birthday cake for all. Everyone is welcome to join the celebration!”
Elizabethtown Church of the Brethren is planning an additional event for all who wish to ride, walk, run, or even scooter “for Paul and for peace,” said an announcement from pastor Greg Davidson Laszakovits. Participants will gather at the Lancaster-Lebanon Rail trail on May 4, with registration starting at 9 a.m. and a send off at 10 a.m.cThe congregation has already raised over $2,000 towards a goal of $10,000.cTo join the effort, or for more information visit www.etowncob.org/3kmp.
Since the launch of the campaign on March 1, interest and participation has been steadily growing. Supporters and participants include bicyclers but also marathon runners, Appalachian Trail hikers, youth groups, canoers and kayakers, college students, weightlifters, congregations, and retirement communities.
Ideas for campaign events “are as diverse as our Beloved Community,” said the On Earth Peace update. A 12 year old at Beacon Heights Church of the Brethren in Ft. Wayne, Ind., walked while on his Spring Break. A 90-year-old resident of a retirement community in Virginia has contacted On Earth Peace to ask how she can get her community involved. Student groups at church-related schools including Manchester University, Juniata College, Elizabethtown College, and McPherson College all have events taking place.
Youth at the Southeast Regional Youth Conference (Roundtable) on March 23 used part of their free time to contribute to the campaign. Said participant Katie Furrow, "We walked through and around campus (at Bridgewater College in Virginia) with signs supporting peace activism and peace education. It was so exciting to see the interaction between the youth and the community as people and vehicles we passed would throw up peace signs, wave, or honk in our direction as we joyfully filed past!"
Also on March 23, Anna Lisa Gross and 14 others associated with Common Spirit Church of the Brethren or Living Table United Church of Christ circled Lake Calhoun and Lake of the Isles in Minneapolis, Minn., collectively walking 57 miles. They wore On Earth Peace's "When Jesus said love your enemies, I think he probably meant don't kill them" bumper stickers, and handed them out to interested onlookers.
Paul Fry-Miller, a member of Manchester Church of the Brethren, is planning a “paddle event” co-sponsored by the local Fellowship of Reconciliation. "We are planning a 5.5-mile afternoon float on the beautiful Eel River through North Manchester, Ind., that will include several stations along the way for brief stories and talks about peacemaking and our environment,” he told On Earth Peace. The Kenapocomoco Coalition members of Manchester University Peace Studies program will be camping out Friday night, April 26, in preparation for the float.
A group of bicyclists including denominational staff are planning a ride from the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., to Camp Emmaus in Mt. Morris, a 150-mile roundtrip to be accomplished over two days with an overnight at the camp. Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT) president Nevin Dulabaum is one of the organizers and has invited other interested cyclists to join the effort.
On Earth Peace recently hired a part-time campaign organizer, Becca DeWhitt, to help staff the campaign. The organization also is seeking volunteers gifted in publicity, social media, data management, or outreach, who may have connections to bike clubs, congregations, or campuses where a ride or walk for peacemaking might be held. A number of volunteer positions are available. Contact executive director Bill Scheurer at bill@onearthpeace.org.
For more information visit www.3000MilesforPeace.org. To hold a peace witness as part of the campaign, contact 3kmp@OnEarthPeace.org.
Source: 4/18/2013 Newsline
Young Adult Conference 2013 is held at Camp Pine Lake in Iowa.
The 2013 Young Adult Conference will be held May 25-27 for Brethren
age 18-35 at Camp Pine Lake near Eldora, Iowa. The event will offer
participants a long weekend of worship, fun, and fellowship.
The annual conference is an opportunity for young adults to connect with others from across the denomination and to together explore a theme and scripture. This year the theme will be “Voice: ...The Stones Would Shout Out!” from the story of people spreading their cloaks before Jesus as he entered Jerusalem, told in Luke 19:36-40: “Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, ‘Teacher, order your disciples to stop.’ He answered, ‘I tell you, if these were silent, the stones would shout out.’”
Leadership will be provided by speakers Eric Landrum, Kay Guyer, Jonathan Brenneman, and Joanna Shenk. Worship coordinators are Marie Benner Rhoades and Tyler Goss. Jacob Crouse is the music leader.
The cost is $100 per participant, or $125 after May 1. Scholarship help is available. The registration fee includes two nights of lodging, as well as all meals and programming during the event.
Coordinating the 2013 young adult event is Becky Ullom Naugle, director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries. Contact her at bullomnaugle@brethren.org. For more information and registration go to www.brethren.org/yac.
Source: 4/18/2013 Newsline
The annual conference is an opportunity for young adults to connect with others from across the denomination and to together explore a theme and scripture. This year the theme will be “Voice: ...The Stones Would Shout Out!” from the story of people spreading their cloaks before Jesus as he entered Jerusalem, told in Luke 19:36-40: “Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, ‘Teacher, order your disciples to stop.’ He answered, ‘I tell you, if these were silent, the stones would shout out.’”
Leadership will be provided by speakers Eric Landrum, Kay Guyer, Jonathan Brenneman, and Joanna Shenk. Worship coordinators are Marie Benner Rhoades and Tyler Goss. Jacob Crouse is the music leader.
The cost is $100 per participant, or $125 after May 1. Scholarship help is available. The registration fee includes two nights of lodging, as well as all meals and programming during the event.
Coordinating the 2013 young adult event is Becky Ullom Naugle, director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries. Contact her at bullomnaugle@brethren.org. For more information and registration go to www.brethren.org/yac.
Source: 4/18/2013 Newsline
Friday, April 05, 2013
Youth voice is heard in New York and Washington during Christian Citizenship Seminar.
 |
| Photo by Rachel Witkovsky |
| A CCS guest speaker highlights poverty across the nation through a graphic. Speakers at the 2013 Christian Citizenship Seminar offered varying perspectives on poverty and children affected by it. |
CCS gives senior high youth the chance to explore the relationship between faith and a particular political issue. This year the focus was on how a child’s lack of adequate housing, nutrition, and education may perpetuate the cycle of poverty and limit a child’s potential.
The event was planned and led by a number of denominational staff including Becky Ullom, director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries; Nathan Hosler, coordinator of the Office of Public Witness; Rachel Witkovsky, a Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) worker and coordinator of National Junior High Conference; and Bryan Hanger, also a BVS volunteer and advocacy assistant in the Office of Public Witness.
The week began in New York City where Nathan Hosler and I spoke of our experiences with the issue as part of our work at the church’s Office of Public Witness. We spoke specifically of the “sequester” and the effects these cuts to the federal budget have on children facing poverty. For example, some 600,000 participants will be cut from the Women, Infants, Children (WIC) program designed to help the nutrition of young infants and mothers. In another example, more than 100,000 formerly homeless people will lose access to shelters due to drastic cuts in homelessness assistance (see www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2013/02/08/fact-sheet-examples-how-sequester-would-impact-middle-class-families-job ).
In Washington, so much emphasis has been placed on the bottom budget line that the human costs of these cuts has been tragically overlooked. We encouraged the youth to instead look for inspiration from Jesus’ example in scripture to care for the "least of these."
This theme was expanded by the first guest speaker, Shannon Daley-Harris, who is the religious affairs advisor for the Children’s Defense Fund (CDF). Her vast experience of working with religious communities addressing childhood poverty provided great insight for our youth on the human cost of poverty. She spoke specifically of the CDF’s program “Be Careful What You Cut,” which emphasizes long-term effects of cutting anti-poverty programs for young children (more information is at www.childrensdefense.org/be-careful-what-you-cut ).
The second guest speaker was Sarah Rohrer, deputy director of Bread for the World’s office in New York. The Church of the Brethren has a history of working with and supporting the mission of Bread for the World through the Global Food Crisis Fund. Recently Stan Noffsinger, Church of the Brethren general secretary, signed Bread for the World’s Circle of Protection Pastoral Letter to the President and Congress ( www.circleofprotection.us ). Rohrer talked about the effects of poverty on children around the world, and spoke specifically about Bread for the World’s 1,000 Days program and Offering of Letters advocacy effort. The 1,000 Days program focuses internationally on the early development of children and is designed to eliminate malnutrition of young children and mothers by providing ample and healthy food during the 1,000 days from pregnancy to the child’s second birthday. The Offering of Letters is an advocacy effort that provides a way for church members to speak out on issues of poverty from a faith perspective and encourage their representatives and senators to support policies that will help programs like 1,000 Days be effective.
In between these two sessions with guest speakers, youth got to explore the Big Apple including a trip to the United Nations where youth were able to take a tour and learn about UN efforts to reduce poverty. After three days of fun and learning in New York, the CCS group boarded a bus to Washington, D.C., for the second half of the seminar.
In the nation’s capital, the educational tour continued with a trip to the Department of Agriculture (USDA) where three staff members of the USDA’s Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships spoke about how they work with churches and social organizations to implement government policies at a community level. The USDA staff encouraged our youth to learn from the success stories they shared, and create community programs that collaborate with the USDA to help as many people as possible. We learned how recent budget cuts have affected many of the USDA efforts to combat poverty effectively, but also how they were proactively adapting their strategies and goals to transform many of their programs. One of the changes is a new program entitled "Strikeforce," which will work to reduce poverty and encourage economic development in rural communities that have not traditionally been recipients of USDA programs ( www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?navid=STRIKE_FORCE ).
After the USDA visit, the youth had a chance to learn how to put their knowledge into action. For this task our guests were Jerry O’Donnell, a member of Washington City Church of the Brethren and also press secretary for Rep. Grace Napolitano (CA-32), and Shantha Ready-Alonso, director of the National Council of Churches (NCC) Poverty Initiative. O'Donnell provided an insider perspective as a Congressional staffer while Ready-Alonso demonstrated the advocacy skills and strategies needed to be an effective Christian voice on Capitol Hill.
This combination gave our youth the confidence and knowledge to go to Capitol Hill themselves and lift up the issue of childhood poverty with their own representatives and senators. By the time the seminar concluded, Brethren youth had advocated their concerns with senators and representatives from Virginia, Pennsylvania, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, California, Ohio, and Oregon.
Overall, the week was a rousing success. Brethren youth connected with each other and worked with adult advisors and staff to learn more about child poverty. Visiting New York and Washington, and getting to speak faithfully with a Brethren voice to policy experts and lawmakers, was truly a unique experience. We can’t wait to hear about the fruits of this experience once the youth carry their ideas home and put them to work in their own communities.
-- Bryan Hanger is an advocacy assistant at the Church of the Brethren's Office of Public Witness.
Source: 4/5/2013 Newsline
Thursday, April 04, 2013
Ecumenical Luncheon at Annual Conference
Young adults ages 18-28 are invited to attend theEcumenical Luncheon
Annual Conference 2013
Charlotte, North Carolina
Monday, July 1 at 12:00 noon
Featuring The Rev. Dr. Sharon E. Watkins
General Minister and President,
Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
Seeking WholenessDr. Watkins will share reflections on Christian unity as a gift and a goal for the church of Jesus Christ in the complex society of the U.S. and the world.
To order your complimentary ticket, e-mail nminer@brethren.org by June 14.
Sponsored by the Office of the General Secretary
Friday, March 08, 2013
Agape-Satyagraha program now at six sites across the country.
“The program teaches youth the heart of Christian peacemaking (agape love) and Gandhian nonviolence (satyagraha) and empowers youth to use agape and satyagraha together for nonviolent interpersonal conflict resolution and nonviolent social change.”
The Agape-Satyagraha sites mentor youth ages 11-18 through five levels of skills training: understanding conflict escalation, anger management, de-escalating conflict, negotiation and mediation, and community social change. Adult volunteers coach youth individually or in small groups through each level.
“In 2012, a three-year pilot program ended and On Earth Peace is now offering the program more widely,” reports Benner-Rhoades. The organization provides support to local communities to offer the program, and those sites provide feedback as they develop the curriculum to meet needs in different settings. Site coordinators meet monthly to share about their achievements and worship together.
Current sites for Agape-Satyagraha are:
- the Boys and Girls Club of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County, Va.
- Acts 4 Peace in Baltimore, Md.
- Modesto (Calif.) Church of the Brethren at Fremont Elementary School
- the Peace Place in Trotwood, Ohio
- Brethren Community Ministries in Harrisburg, Pa.
- Danzante Urban Arts in Harrisburg, Pa.
Source: 3/8/2013 Newsline
‘3,000 Miles for Peace’ campaign is underway.
So far, there are over three dozen events planned in 15 states and 3 countries as part of the campaign, including rides and walks sponsored by churches, camps, colleges, and youth groups. There are individual walks and rides of several hundred miles each.
One community is planning a canoe trip which will combine fun, fundraising, inspiration, education, and music. Another group is planning to walk the Stations of the Cross in conflict areas of their city neighborhood. The campaign includes events as diverse as its participants, and welcomes new event organizers, participants, and fundraisers to join in.
The main website for the campaign, www.3000milesforpeace.org, gives more information about how to get involved by donating, starting an event, or becoming a fundraiser.
Bob Gross, On Earth Peace director of Development, will walk 650 miles on behalf of the campaign. He plans to start March 21 from North Manchester, Ind., and end May 3 in Elizabethtown, Pa. Find his blog and links to more information about his walk on the main page of www.3000milesforpeace.org.
After the conclusion of Gross’ walk there will be a culminating event on May 5 at Elizabethtown Church of the Brethren to recognize Paul Ziegler’s birthday, share stories of walks and rides, and share music and worship together. All who live in the area are invited to attend. Those who live in a nearby town may consider walking or bicycling to Elizabethtown for the culminating event of the campaign.
“3,000 Miles for Peace” will run through the summer, and end on Sept. 21-22--the weekend of Peace Day. Some organizers already have expressed enthusiasm about combining a walk or ride event with Peace Day. For more about Peace Day go to http://prayingforceasefire.tumblr.com.
On Earth Peace would like to thank the many campaign volunteers who are stepping up for violence prevention and peacemaking. If you have interest in joining the campaign, check out www.3000milesforpeace.org or call the campaign office at 260-982-7751.
-- Lizz Schallert is development assistant at On Earth Peace.
Source: 3/8/2013 Newsline
2013 Christian Citizenship Seminar
“Childhood Poverty: Nutrition, Housing, and Education”
is the focus for the 2013 Christian Citizenship Seminar in New York and
Washington, D.C., that begins on March 23 and continues through March
28. The event is for high school age youth and adult advisors to
consider current issues and engage in advocacy in the nation’s capital.
For more about CCS go to www.brethren.org/yya/ccs .
Source: 3/8/2013 Newsline
Source: 3/8/2013 Newsline
There’s still room for YOU at a workcamp this summer!
“There’s still room for YOU at a workcamp this summer!” says
an announcement from the Church of the Brethren Workcamp Ministry.
“There is room for you to…walk the sordid streets of Los Angeles, see
the beautiful mountains of Colorado, expand your understanding of others
at Innisfree Village, raft the mighty rivers of Idaho, work with the
earth in the green city of Seattle and more! There’s room for EVERYONE!
Did you know…that we offer a workcamp for intellectually and physically
disabled youth ages 16-23 AND that we offer a workcamp that you and your
grandkids can go to? Check out our lesser known workcamps--We Are Able
and Intergenerational.” Registration for workcamps is open at www.brethren.org/workcamps .
Source: 3/8/2013 Newsline
Source: 3/8/2013 Newsline
Applications are due April 12 for this summer’s Exploring Your Call (EYC)
Applications are due April 12 for this summer’s Exploring Your Call (EYC)
at Bethany Theological Seminary. EYC takes place June 14-24. Sponsored
by the seminary’s Institute for Ministry with Youth and Young Adults,
EYC is a grant-funded leadership and discernment program for rising high
school juniors and seniors. Participants value the hands-on ministry
experiences, college-level classroom learning, and connection with peers
who are asking similar questions about life, faith, and ministry.
Students need only pay for transportation to and from the event, held on
the Bethany Seminary campus in Richmond, Ind. For more information and
to apply, go to www.bethanyseminary.edu/eyc-apply.
Source: 3/8/2013 Newsline
Source: 3/8/2013 Newsline
Fundraising Ideas for National Youth Conference
The Youth and Young Adult office is sharing fundraising ideas for National Youth Conference 2014 at www.facebook.com/NYC2014
. Here’s one of the latest: the $500 wheelbarrow. “Did you know that a
large, heavy-duty wheelbarrow can hold 50,000 pennies?” said the post.
“That amounts to $500! Borrow the wheelbarrow from a church member and
place in a high-traffic area of your church. Always keep a sign nearby
to explaining what the wheelbarrow and pennies are for. It also helps if
someone can ‘work’ the wheelbarrow, standing nearby to explain the
fundraiser, why you are raising money, and to sell rolls of pennies.
Remember to place the wheelbarrow in a secure area when it’s not in use
or no one is around.”
Source: 3/8/2013 Newsline
Source: 3/8/2013 Newsline
Students at Church of the Brethren-related colleges are doing services projects.
Foregoing “fun in the sun” spring breaks, several groups of students at Church of the Brethren-related colleges are doing services projects instead.
- At Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa., 21 students in the Habitat for Humanity club will take on the construction of an entire house in Albany, Ga., and other students will organize the affiliate’s ReStore location. The college’s Hillel chapter for Jewish students is traveling to the Dominican Republic to work on the “My Roof” project that focuses on building shelters for people who don’t have adequate, safe housing, and will volunteer at a health clinic and a school. Juniata’s Christian Ministry Board is traveling to North Fort Myers, Fla., to volunteer on a demonstration farm working with Educational Concerns for Hunger Organization. The college’s Community Service Board is going to Apopka, Fla., to work with immigrant families in collaboration with a local organization called Hope CommUnity Center.
- At Bridgewater (Va.) College, 18 students and 2 staff members will spend spring break volunteering with Habitat’s Collegiate Challenge Spring Break 2013. The group, accompanied by college chaplain Robbie Miller and Stacie Horrell, assistant director of student activities, will leave for Sumter, S.C., on March 10 to work in partnership with the Sumter Habitat for Humanity helping to build several houses. To raise money for the trip, they held a chili cook-off and sponsored a faculty/staff car wash. This is the 21st year that Bridgewater College students have used spring break to work on various Habitat projects.
- At McPherson (Kan.) College, a group of students is planning to serve for a week at a Brethren Disaster Ministries project site in Holton, Ind., in late March. Tom Hurst, director of Service for the college, is organizing the trip with help from Western Plains District.
On Earth peace at Pleasant Valley Church of the Brethren
The Senior High Youth of Pleasant Valley Church of the Brethren
in Weyers Cave, Va., invite other youth groups to join them on March
17, 6:30-8 p.m., for an evening with Bill Scheurer, executive director
of On Earth Peace. RSVP to stevespire@hotmail.com by March 13.
Source: 3/8/2013 Newsline
Source: 3/8/2013 Newsline
Roundtable regional youth conference at Bridgewater (Va.) College
Roundtable regional youth conference at Bridgewater (Va.) College
is scheduled for March 22-24. This event for senior high youth will
feature worship, workshops, open mike night, and more. Cost is $50. The
theme is “Transformed: Rebel with a Cause” with Marcus Harden as
speaker. Entertainment will be by a cappella choirs from James Madison
University. Register at www.bridgewater.edu/orgs/iyc.
Source: 3/8/2013 Newsline
Source: 3/8/2013 Newsline
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
2013 Spring IL/WI District Youth Retreat – The Book of Face; the Newest Testament
When: April 19-21, 2013Who: Everyone currently in 9th through 12th grades during the 2011-2012 school year. Friends and advisors are welcome.
Where: Rockford Church of the Brethren
Sessions: What does it mean to be a Christian youth in a social media world? What does the Bible say about how we communicate with each other?
Service Project: The service project will include the opportunity to do some painting.
Cost: $40 for youth – no charge for advisors. Make checks payable to “Illinois/Wisconsin District Youth”
What to Bring: Bible, Games, Sleeping Bag, Snacks to share, Towel, and Work clothes.
Registration Deadline: April 5th, 2013 {Click for Registration Form )
Monday, February 18, 2013
2014 National Youth Conference Theme
Breaking news from the National Youth Cabinet! The theme for National Youth Conference 2014 is “Called by Christ, blessed for the journey together,” based on Ephesians 4:1-6.
2013 Annual Conference Senior High Activities
Saturday, June 29—9:00 to 10:15 PM
Get ready to
greet old friends and meet some new peeps! Bring your energy to play
some four-square, make friendship bracelets, and participate in other,
fun, get-to-know-you activities.
Sunday, June 30—11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
What a day! After worship it starts with bowling at Strike City Bowling followed by our group having a guided tour of the NFL Panthers Stadium! This facility seats over 73 thousand people and is an open-air, natural grass stadium.
Sunday, June 30—7:00 to 10:00 PM
For Sunday evening we'll groove at our own, private Mutual Kumquat concert! This talented band is made up of musicians that sing about peace, justice, and...squash!
Monday, July 1—8:30 AM to 4:45 PM
Following a time of devotions and games we'll hear from David Radcliff of New Community Project who will challenge us about our actions and the world around us. He will accompany us on our trip to the Trout Unlimited service project where we'll help with river clean up. WEAR OLD CLOTHES! We'll also hear from local officials on how they maintain the river, what laws there are for littering, and how they deal with companies dumping illegal waste. We'll grab a bag lunch then spend the afternoon at the nearby aquatic center for some swimming and water sports. Bring a one-piece/modest bathing suit!
Monday, July 1—9:00 to 10:15 PM
Do you like to travel, meet and help new people, and serve God at the same time? After worship we'll have a fun, interactive time learning about Brethren Volunteer Service and Workcamps from Emily Tyler.
Tuesday, July 2—8:30 AM to 4:45 PM
Hang out, get focused with devotions, play some games, then head to the NASCAR Hall of Fame for a tour and lunch. Lots to do there: race simulators to give you a race day experience (minus the danger!), iconic classic cars, a real-life pit crew challenge, and more. In the afternoon we'll from Brethren Colleges and Brethren Benefit Trust.
Tuesday, July 2—9:00 to 10:15 PM
And later after worship we'll kick back and sing with Virginia and David Meadows, music leaders from the 2010 National Youth Conference!
Registration Information:
Get ready to
greet old friends and meet some new peeps! Bring your energy to play
some four-square, make friendship bracelets, and participate in other,
fun, get-to-know-you activities.Sunday, June 30—11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
What a day! After worship it starts with bowling at Strike City Bowling followed by our group having a guided tour of the NFL Panthers Stadium! This facility seats over 73 thousand people and is an open-air, natural grass stadium.
Sunday, June 30—7:00 to 10:00 PM
For Sunday evening we'll groove at our own, private Mutual Kumquat concert! This talented band is made up of musicians that sing about peace, justice, and...squash!
Monday, July 1—8:30 AM to 4:45 PM
Following a time of devotions and games we'll hear from David Radcliff of New Community Project who will challenge us about our actions and the world around us. He will accompany us on our trip to the Trout Unlimited service project where we'll help with river clean up. WEAR OLD CLOTHES! We'll also hear from local officials on how they maintain the river, what laws there are for littering, and how they deal with companies dumping illegal waste. We'll grab a bag lunch then spend the afternoon at the nearby aquatic center for some swimming and water sports. Bring a one-piece/modest bathing suit!
Monday, July 1—9:00 to 10:15 PM
Do you like to travel, meet and help new people, and serve God at the same time? After worship we'll have a fun, interactive time learning about Brethren Volunteer Service and Workcamps from Emily Tyler.
Tuesday, July 2—8:30 AM to 4:45 PM
Hang out, get focused with devotions, play some games, then head to the NASCAR Hall of Fame for a tour and lunch. Lots to do there: race simulators to give you a race day experience (minus the danger!), iconic classic cars, a real-life pit crew challenge, and more. In the afternoon we'll from Brethren Colleges and Brethren Benefit Trust.
Tuesday, July 2—9:00 to 10:15 PM
And later after worship we'll kick back and sing with Virginia and David Meadows, music leaders from the 2010 National Youth Conference!
Registration Information:
- All children participating in age-group activities must also be registered for Annual Conference.
- A Medical/Permission form must be filled out for each child participating in age-group activities.
- Register for Annual Conference and age-group activities at www.brethren.org/ac.
- Advance Registration
- All days activities — $85.00
- Sunday only — $45.00
- Monday only — $25.00
- Tuesday only — $40.00
- Onsite Registration
- All days activities — $100.00
- Daily fees increase — $10.00/day.
2013 Annual Conference Junior High Activities
- Connect with old friends!Meet up with friends from around the country from past conferences.
- Make new friends!Find out who's new and make a new friend!
- Converse—"Move in Our Midst"Discuss the conference theme and go over plans of all the fun stuff we'll do this week.
- Group games!Get your game on!
- Carolina Panther's Stadium!
We'll have a backstage pass to tour the stadium and check out the field of this NFL team. - Bowling at Strike City Lanes!
We'll have lunch and bowl at this local spot. Show off your skills on the lanes!
- Mutual Kumquat Concert!
Join with the senior highs to hear one of Brethren youth's favorite bands in concert just for us. They mix a strong, positive message of love, peace, and social justice with an eclectic sound influenced by soul, pop, bluegrass, and world music. We're sure Christ will be present—even singing and dancing in our midst!
- New Community Project!We meet with David Radcliff to find out about how to incorporate sustainability in our lives, as well as service to creation and to others.
- Service Project!We'll go down by the riverside in Charlotte to help with river clean up and meet with officials from the Rocky River chapter of Trout Unlimited. We'll learn about how pollution is having an impact on local watersheds. Their group is working all over the US to help conserve, protect, and restore North America's coldwater fisheries.
- Swim!After all our hard work we'll cool down in a local pool. Bring your swimsuit!
- Service Information!In the evening we'll hear
all about Brethren Volunteer Service, Brethren Disaster Ministries, and
Church of the Brethren Workcamps. Emily Tyler will help us explore what
it means to live a life of service and what our denomination offers.
- NASCAR!
Charlotte is the home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame (which is right across the street from the convention center!) We'll have an opportunity to do fun activities like drive in a racing simulator, do a pit crew challenge, video games, call a race, and lots more! - Converse—COBCOA!
Hear from the Church of the Brethren colleges as they do a fun, interactive presentation with lots of good stuff. - Money!
The Brethren Benefit Trust will talk to us about how we can spend, give, and save our money in a faithful way.
- Music!
In the evening we'll have music by Virginia and David Meadows, who led music at the National Youth Conference in 2010! We'll wrap up the week with closing reflections about how God has moved with us and what that means as we move forward into our summer.
Registration Information:
- All children participating in age-group activities must also be registered for Annual Conference.
- A Medical/Permission form must be filled out for each child participating in age-group activities.
- Register for Annual Conference and age-group activities at www.brethren.org/ac.
- Advance Registration
- All days activities — $85.00
- Sunday only — $45.00
- Monday only — $25.00
- Tuesday only — $40.00
- Onsite Registration
- All days activities — $100.00
- Daily fees increase — $10.00/day.
2013 Annual Conference Young Adult Activities
An evening with Mark Yaconelli! Join with other young adults to have a conversation with Mark before we hear him on Sunday. Bring your questions!
Sunday, June 30—10:00 PM
Game night! The Living Faith Church of the Brethren will be hosting us and bringing along some of their favorite games. Feel free to bring your own, as well. Dutch Blitz anyone?
Monday Morning, July 1—7:30 AM
Breakfast at Amelie's French Bakery Petite (buy your own). Amelie's was recommended to me several times as a must visit in Charlotte. We'll meet there for breakfast or coffee to get ready for the rest of the day. Bonus: Check out the cool video, recipes, and social media information on their website! www.ameliesfrenchbakery.com
Monday Morning, July 1—10:30 AM to 12:00 Noon
Service Project at the Charlotte Rescue Mission.
Monday Evening, July 1—10:00 PM
An evening with On Earth Peace. Join us for an opportunity to pray for peace in our world, community, and homes. We'll explore scripture and learn something about engaging in the work of peace-building as we worship together.
Tuesday Morning, July 2—10:30 AM to 12:00 Noon
Service Project at the Charlotte Rescue Mission.
Tuesday Evening, July 2—9:30 PM
Fellowship and walk to Yoforia to enjoy their premium frozen yogurt with your choice of toppings (buy your own). You'll never know its not ice cream! We'll debrief Conference together during this time.
All events are free, unless otherwise noted.
Applications invited for seed grants for ecumenical young adult projects
The New Fire Task Force, in partnership with the
Ecumenical Young Adult Ministries Team (EYAMT),invites and encourages young
adults to apply for seed grants in the amount of up to $500 to support local
ecumenical young adult-initiated projects.The New Fire Network is a network of young adult Christians who are connecting and organizing young adult ecumenical leadership to re-invigorate and re-envision cooperative Christian community.
Through the Seed Grant Program, New Fire seeks to support ecumenical projects that connect young adult people to an experience of Christian unity in a concrete and meaningful way.
The New Fire Grant Program aims to break down divisions among those aged 18-35 years; renew the relationship between the church and young adults; and equip young adults to be agents of love, justice, and peace.
The Grant Program also intends to facilitate capacity-building opportunities for young adults in order to expand their knowledge and skills so that they can better serve the churches and the ecumenical movement. New Fire will give priority to projects that incorporate local, national, and regional cooperation and networking between young adults in the ecumenical movement in order to build community and solidarity.
Interested applicants can find a link to the application here, or should email newfireyoungadults@gmail.com for a copy of the application.
Applications are due no later than February 28, 2013, and can be submitted to the New Fire Task Force at newfireyoungadults@gmail.com .
Awards decisions will be announced by March 31, 2013. The coordinators of projects that are awarded a seed grant will be required to sign a covenant agreement, complete their proposed project and submit a written report to New Fire no later than June 30, 2013 to help with our end of year reporting.
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