The Reflector -- September 2012 -- Vol 9 Issue 6

DE PONDERINGS by Kevin Kessler

We need art to live fully and to grow healthy. Without it we are dry husks drifting aimlessly on every ill wind, our futures are without promise and our present without grace. —Maya Angelou

I call heaven and earth to witness against you today that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Choose life so that you and your descendants may live... —Deuteronomy 30:19 (NRSV)

As at all Annual Conferences, this summer I parted with some of my hard earned money (Hard earned? My interpretation; yours may be different.) at the Brethren Press bookstore. One of the items I purchased was a small devotional book entitled “40-Day Journey with Maya Angelou.” It contains 40 daily meditations that include excerpts from Angelou’s writings and a scripture reference to reflect on silently, questions pertaining to the readings on which to ponder, a reading from the Psalms, a few more questions for which to journal responses, suggestions for prayer, and then a sentence prayer for closing. Now that I’m several days into this journey, it is proving to be a rich experience.

Angelou’s writing for Day 9 begins “Great art belongs to all people...” She then speaks about art as the medium that allows oppressed people to “stand erect.” Art for Angelou’s grandmother, especially poetry, was what “put starch in your backbone.”

In my journaling for this day, I pondered the question, “What is art?” My personal definition based on insights from Angelou is that art is an opportunity to create anew something that gives voice to my being that otherwise would have been kept silent. With art, I am able to unleash my emotions, my feelings, my thoughts, which likely, in my case, would otherwise go unsaid. Art gives me more “backbone” to express the inner me, that which I believe is true and just for the good of humanity, for the good of creation.

However, such freedom of expression needs a check to ensure that it doesn’t digress into narcissistic individualism and control. Angelou’s writing for day 10 provides a means for keeping the artist humble. She states that we need art to “show us images of ourselves” even “those we dislike.” Profoundly, she then writes, “In some way that is very important to us we need to see those we dislike even more than those we like because somehow we need at least glancing visions of how we look ‘as in a mirror darkly’.”

Simultaneously, art should give us “backbone” to express our deepest beliefs and understandings, and it should also give us opportunity to see our dark side. The expressions I make to change the darkness of my surroundings will also speak to me, as the artist, that I need to change the similar darkness within me. Such a humbling effect is the corrective measure that ensures my art is a benefit for all.

Angelou has helped me to realize the artist within me. Art is painting, sculpting, music, dance, all things I lack talent in. But art is also writing, poetry, speaking, listening, all things I endeavor to do. With what I’ve learned about art from Maya Angelou, I hope I use the freedom to be expressive in ways that are helpful to all, being sure this artistic expression speaks to me while concurrently changing me for the better.

Stuart Murray Workshop Cancelled

We have regretfully learned that Stuart Murray will be unable to come to the United States this fall as he has expected. Thus, the workshop with him that was planned for our district is canceled. Hopefully he will be able to be here next year sometime, at which time we will work to re-schedule some time with him. Stay tuned! Please share this information with others you know who may have been expecting to attend the Oct. 20 event.

Compass: A New Ministry Begins!

First Church of the Brethren - Springfield

First Church of the Brethren will become a Community Partner with Harvard Park Elementary School and the Family Service Center’s COMPASS Program by providing the site, some volunteers, and other support for a new after-school program. The program is designed to assist homeless and low-income students from Harvard Park School.

Each Thursday of the week some 30+ students will walk from the school to our meetinghouse where they will follow a schedule that includes a snack time, help with homework, life skills lessons, and a family style dinner. The program will operate from 3:00-6:30 pm.

Family Service’s Compass coordinator, Molly Berendt will be the site-director overseeing the program. Evelyn Taylor will serve as our congregational contact person. We will need tutors/mentors, life skill instructors, people to help put the meals/snacks together, etc. Other volunteers will come from additional community partners, such as Harvard Park Baptist Church and Mt. Zion Apostolic Church.

Some volunteers will come from other agencies or groups in town, like the Rotary Club.

We hope to start on Thursday, September 20th.

From “The Boulevard News – Newsletter

Decatur Church moves to new location

The Decatur COB has finalized the sale of their building and now worships in the Crestview Worship Center. Because the Decatur COB meetinghouse was not handicapped accessible, several members were finding it difficult to navigate steps and continue attending. In addition, maintenance costs continued to rise which was causing budget constraints for the congregation. Thus, it was discerned that moving to a new location would give the congregation greater opportunity to continue meeting together and serving in ministry. An opportunity was presented to the congregation to meet in the Crestview Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) facility, a one-level accessible edifice located on the northwest edge of Decatur. Another congregation also meets at Crestview. The three congregations meeting at Crestview maintain their separate identities, times of worship and Christian education, and programming, yet share space which is a benefit for each of the groups. Each congregation is now able to continue ministry as a congregation without feeling overwhelmed by the burden of building and maintenance costs, These costs are now shared giving each the ability to use the funds for ministry. It is a win-win situation for all. The mailing address for the Decatur COB, which remains the same, is P.O. Box 3804, Decatur, IL 62524-3804. The Crestview Worship Center is located at 4415 N. Water St., Decatur, IL 62526. The new phone number for the Decatur congregation is: 217-875-4849.

Powerhouse Youth Conference: Coming Up Fast!

What: Powerhouse regional youth conference, a weekend of worship, workshops, music, food, and fun!

When: Nov. 10-11, 2012

Where: Manchester University, North Manchester, Ind.

Who: Youth in grades 9-12 in 2012-2013 and advisors

Website: www.manchester.edu/powerhouse

Other details: Log on to the website!

Manchester College, Campus Ministry/Religious Life, 260-982-5243

Illinois/Wisconsin District Conference

You are invited to start making plans to attend this year's Illinois/Wisconsin District Conference, which will be held in the same place as last year's Conference: Lake Williamson Christian Center near Carlinville, IL. The dates are November 2-4.

Highlights include:

• Friday Evening Worship with Dan Ulrich, Professor of New Testament Studies at Bethany Theological Seminary, preaching.
• Saturday Evening Concert with Mutual Kumquat
• Sunday Morning Worship with Benjamin Reynolds, interim Pastor at First Chicago CoB, preaching

Even though is it still early in the year, we would like you to consider making plans for District Conference, November 2-4. We are excited to be returning to Lake Williamson Christian Center near Carlinville, IL! We used the facility last year and received positive feedback from everyone who attended. This facility is organized especially for events like ours and features a variety of activities for all age groups. Lodging is available on-site as is dining, meeting space, and recreation, all within easy walking distances. Nearly all amenities on site are included in the single-fee cost per person. Families and individuals alike will find plenty of things to do in addition to the usual fare of worship, fellowship, and business that are experienced during District Conference.

Below, you will find links to a few items of preview information. Included is a poster we encourage you to prominently display in your church as well as other items that can be copied and distributed as needed -- registration form, maps, and activity guide. There is no need to search for a motel since lodging is on site. Simply completing the registration material and indicating occupancy preferences for a room will ensure that you have a place to stay for the weekend. The price per person includes lodging, 4 meals (Saturday and Sunday morning), and use of the activity center. Early registration is important for the purpose of giving accurate counts to the conference center. Sending a deposit with your registration now, with the remainder of the payment at a later date, will secure a place for you at conference and ensure that you receive the early bird savings.

The official registration packet will be mailed to congregations in mid- August. Additional materials will be included in that mailing such as forms and information for children and youth activities. However, if you want to use the enclosed forms to register early, please, by all means, do so, along with the deposit of $50.00 per person.

Online Conference Packet Documents:

* Packet Letter
* Conference Poster
* Registration Form - page 1
* Registration Form - page 2
* Map
* Activity Guide
* Silent Auction
* Nursery and Pre-K Registration
* Kindergarten - 5th grade Registration
* Junior High Registration
* Senior High Retreat Registration

As always, separate children and youth activities will be held on Saturday. Interesting insight sessions will be provided Sunday morning and, as usual, district business will be conducted on Saturday.

Along the Paths of Camp Emmaus

On a recent lovely August afternoon at Camp Emmaus, the junior high campers were spending their time either tie-dying shirts, “creek stomping”, or swimming in the pool. The beautiful pool lies under a canopy of oaks and creates a plus for the camping season. Swimming disappeared all last summer as the pool was under renovation along with the filter house.

Patrick, the lifeguard, shared that all the campers enjoy the early Polar Bear and afternoon swims and the new pool basketball hoop. Comments heard from campers like Jason, Noah, Reid, Avery and Tyler was “amazing’, “great for hot days”, “better than last year”, “feels great when it’s hot out”, and “pretty awesome”, show their appreciation. The pool opens for public and open swims on Sunday afternoons and for camps held the rest of the season.

Having a workable recreational water facility contributes a very important part of any camping program and promotes the programs of Camp Emmaus to local Church of the Brethren congregations and other nearby Churches. Contributions to retire the $60,000+ balance of the pool renovation cost are greatly appreciated.

Thanks to the various local congregations who helped with the annual clean up of the grounds and buildings prior to the camping season. We couldn’t do it without you.

The Annual Camp Appreciation Dinner will be held on Saturday, September 1 at 5:30 PM in the lodge. There will be no charge for this evening of great food, entertainment and an opportunity to visit with others who support the camp in so many ways. Fill a car(s) with folks from your congregation and join us.

Combat Hunger with an Amazing Evening The Cotton Patch Gospel

Can you imagine the Gospel of Matthew set in rural Georgia with Jesus born in a trailer behind Motel 6?

Can you imagine how all musical instruments and vocals can be performed by one man simultaneously?

For answers, come out to enjoy the professional two-act production of the COTTON PATCH GOSPEL, originally written by Clarence Jordan, founder of Koinonia Farm in Georgia. Jordan’s vernacular rewrite was transformed into a popular bluegrass musical by the famous folksinger Harry Chapin (Cat’s in the Cradle). Actor/musician Phil Kaufman will show us how it can all be done by one innovative young man. This traveling production is a ministry of the Willow Springs Mennonite Church in Tiskilwa, IL, but has played in Brethren churches in Lanark, Franklin Grove, Montgomery, and at the Lombard Mennonite Church .

All Proceeds Go To The Lombard Villa Park Food Pantry and Mcc Food Programs
Tickets Available From The York Center Church Office 630.627.7411  or At The Door
$10 + Free Will Offering. Children 12 And Under Free.
On Your Calendar: Friday, September 21, 7pm
At the York Center Church of the Brethren

Comforters for District Conference

Hurry, Hurry, Hurry! You Still Have Time!!!
We Encourage Your Participation.

Please Let The Appropriate Persons In Your
Congregation Know About This...

Last year at District Conference at Lake Williamson we were able to participate in a variety of events including love feast, worship, business, fellowship, and an auction of some wonderful comforters. The comforters showcased the creative talents from many of our churches and the auction led by Brother Rick Koch from Milledgeville was a lot of fun as well!

We would like to continue the project for another year and invite each congregation to make a contribution. There are no rules - be colorful, be creative, have fun. Proceeds will go to support our District work.

Please spread the word about this project. Let me know by September 15 if you are going to participate and then bring your comforter to District Conference (Nov. 2-5, 2012) and enjoy the friendly camaraderie as we bid for these wonderful pieces of Brethren art.

In Christ's Service, Ed Garrison, egarrison207@comcast.net (815) 734-4565

Bethany Graduates from Illinois-Wisconsin earn Degrees

On May 5, 2012 Bethany Seminary granted 14 students Master’s Degrees. Bethany celebrated the 107th commencement in Nicarry Chapel. Nadine S. Pence gave the commencement address. President Ruthann Knechel Johansen also addressed the group. Jeanne Davies, Associate Pastor at Highland Avenue, received a Master of Divinity degree and Dennis John Richard Webb, Pastor at Naperville, received Master of Arts degree. Congratulations to our graduates on their success.

Backpack bridges at Annual Conference

“Thank you very much for coming to St. Louis!” said Blake Youde during afternoon business at Annual Conference on July 9. Youde is the deputy superintendent of institutional advancement at St. Louis public schools, and he was there to bring more than greetings.

He had come to receive the 543 dollars, 40 boxes, and 417 backpacks full of school supplies that Annual Conference attendees donated to St. Louis schools. These supplies were collected during a special offering, and are estimated to fill over 1,000 backpacks altogether.

“There are 25,000 students in the St. Louis public school system,” he shared. In addition to standard K-12 education, many schools provide early childhood development, opportunities for young adults to finish high school up to the age of 21, special needs programs, and job preparation. "We are training the future work force of St. Louis," said Youde, and this fall, many of them will enjoy new school supplies donated by generous folks like you.

Reprinted from e Brethren

Camp Emmaus Labor Day Family Camp

Family Camp is from August 31st to September 3rd. The unofficial motto of the weekend is "eat, sleep, and burn wood".

There are currently vacancies in some of the cabins, but there is also lots of space for tents and some spots for campers.

Most of the people attending Family Camp come prepared to cook their own meals, but there are also some other options worked into the schedule. On Saturday evening there is the annual appreciation dinner where the Camp Board serves a complimentary meal and presents a program to thank all of those involved with Camp Emmaus. On Sunday morning there is also a pancake breakfast where pancakes, sausage, and coffee are served. Donations are accepted for the breakfast and all money collected goes back to the camp. Otherwise time is set up for swimming, crafts, some group games, along with plenty of free time to hike the trails, fish in the lake, or relax around the campfire. It is a relaxing and wonderful weekend to spend with new and old friends in God's creation! Please come out to visit for a day if you can't get away for the whole weekend.

The registration form gives you an idea of the prices for Family Camp. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Heidi Gerdes, Program Chair, at 630-649-3008.

A Celebration of 160 Years

On Saturday, August 11th, the Panther Creek CoB celebrated its 160 years of service to God. The day was full of activities for all ages. There were many guests, with past Pastor Anet Satvedi and District Executive and Canton Pastor Kevin Kessler among them. The events started with the sounding of trumpets calling all to gather for the dedication of new Children’s Playground Equipment. Peter Yordy led the dedication service—what a great addition to the grounds and so inviting for children. There was sharing of memories, church history and a lot of reminiscing as people gathered. It was a beautiful service at this old meeting house for the Brethren and it was super to see Peg and Marv Yordy in attendance and being true hosts as they have been for so many years! The people then moved into the Church and looked all around and continued their sharing. Gospel music was next as our trumpeters, along with accompaniment on the piano, had all tapping their feet and singing along. Brother Satvedi then shared his ministry of Christian allusions. Boy, did he have everyone on the edge of their seats to see what he was going to do next. The gospel of Jesus Christ was the main focus, not Brother Satvedi’s slight of hand. He’s good!!!! A pizza supper was on the agenda next as Peter went around the entire group taking special orders so all got just the pizza they wanted. Popcorn and a movie where included in the full day as well. This little old country church celebrated its rich heritage of 160 years serving the Roanoke area, its people, the Church of the Brethren, but mostly, serving the Lord Jesus Christ. May God continue to bless them as they look into the future to serve Him more!

‘My 2¢ Worth’ has a new look, new label

A new look and a new label are now available for “My 2¢ Worth,” formerly Two Cents a Meal. My 2¢ Worth is a program of the Church of the Brethren’s Global Food Crisis Fund (GFCF). The new look and label were showcased at Annual Conference and the labels, as well as envelopes, are now available from the Global Mission and Service office.

The GFCF is the primary way that the Church of the Brethren assists in developing food sovereignty around the world. Since 1983, the fund has provided grants upwards of $400,000 annually to community development programs in 32 countries. My 2¢ Worth donations help make it possible for the church, through the GFCF, to promote food sovereignty and mitigate hunger through sustainable agriculture development.

Write in to receive one or more free My 2¢ Worth labels for personal or congregational use. The labels are designed to wrap around tin cans or glass jars, turning them into attractive collection containers for change. A sample label and an order form will arrive at each congregation in the September Source packet.

For more information or to request labels and envelopes, contact GFCF manager Jeff Boshart at jboshart@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 332.

Deacon Ministry announces fall workshops

The Church of the Brethren Deacon Ministry has scheduled five workshops this fall, offering training for deacons in local congregations. Most of the workshops will offer a number of sessions on topics such as “What are Deacons Supposed to Do Anyway?” “Beyond Casseroles: Offering Support Creatively,” “Deacons and Pastors: The Pastoral Care Team,” and more.

Read the full story at www.brethren.org/news/2012/deacon-ministry-training-workshops-1.html.

Calendar of District Events

SEPTEMBER

1 - Camp Emmaus Appreciation Dinner
3 - Labor Day
3 - Family Camp - Camp Emmanuel
3 - Family Camp - Camp Emmaus
16 - BVS Fall Orientation (through Oct 5)
21 - International Day of Peace
28 - IL Conf. of Churches Gathering @ Champaign
29 - Camp Emmanuel 7th Annual Fish Fry

OCTOBER

7 - World Communion Sunday
13 - Program and Arrangements Committee @ Canton
20 - Camp Emmanuel Fall Work Day
20 - Ministerial Leadership Dev. Team, TBA
20–23 - Mission and Ministry Board @ Elgin, IL
24-25 - Midwest DE Meeting @ Camp Mack, IN
28 - Reformation Sunday

NOVEMBER

2 - Minister's Pre-Conf. Workshop @ Carlinville
2-4 - IL/WI District Conference @ Carlinville
4 - National Jr. High Sunday
4 - Daylight Savings Time Ends
10 - Camp Emmaus Leaf Raking
10-11 - Powerhouse Youth Conference @ Manchester University
16-17 - Leadership Team Retreat @ Camp Emmaus
16–18 - Mission Alive @ Lititz, PA
22 - Thanksgiving Day
27 - IL Conf. of Churches @ Springfield

DECEMBER

1 - Ministerial Leadership Dev. Team, TBA
2 - First Sunday of Advent
25 - Christmas Day
31 - New Year’s Eve