Monday, May 01, 2017
From the Moderator
Contributions to the column reserved for the moderator will present meditations, written by members of the congregations in the IL/WI District.
Do Not Be Afraid
“Do not be afraid.” Jesus spoke these words many times to His disciples. This usually happened around the time a big event occurred.
Three disciples stood atop of a mountain as heaven unfolded before them and when God spoke they fell to the ground trembling. Jesus touched them and said: “Do not be afraid!” Just before Jesus’ crucifixion, as Jesus prepared his disciple for what was to come, He repeated: “Do not be afraid.” There is something comforting about those words.
I worked for the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission for thirty-five years, during which time I did my ministry training. I was ordained into ministry, and submitted my profile to our District Minister to be sent out nationwide; I would go where God called me. Within a few months I received a call from the IL/WI District concerning a church in Cerro Gordo, Illinois.
My wife and I had been to Illinois only once before. Accepting this call meant leaving our family, friends, and home church. We would be going to a place where we knew no one. I’ll be honest it and say it was a bit unnerving. However, through it all I somehow heard God saying: “Do not be afraid. I am with you even unto the end of the age.” It’s been nearly five years since we moved to Cerro Gordo and we are totally blessed.
Tim Laird – Pastor
Cerro Gordo Church of the Brethren
Cerro Gordo IL.
Do Not Be Afraid
“Do not be afraid.” Jesus spoke these words many times to His disciples. This usually happened around the time a big event occurred.
Three disciples stood atop of a mountain as heaven unfolded before them and when God spoke they fell to the ground trembling. Jesus touched them and said: “Do not be afraid!” Just before Jesus’ crucifixion, as Jesus prepared his disciple for what was to come, He repeated: “Do not be afraid.” There is something comforting about those words.
I worked for the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission for thirty-five years, during which time I did my ministry training. I was ordained into ministry, and submitted my profile to our District Minister to be sent out nationwide; I would go where God called me. Within a few months I received a call from the IL/WI District concerning a church in Cerro Gordo, Illinois.
My wife and I had been to Illinois only once before. Accepting this call meant leaving our family, friends, and home church. We would be going to a place where we knew no one. I’ll be honest it and say it was a bit unnerving. However, through it all I somehow heard God saying: “Do not be afraid. I am with you even unto the end of the age.” It’s been nearly five years since we moved to Cerro Gordo and we are totally blessed.
Tim Laird – Pastor
Cerro Gordo Church of the Brethren
Cerro Gordo IL.
“Planting” in a Cents-able Way
By Pastor Leslie Lake, Polo Church of the Brethren
Polo COB has been intentional now for the last two years in wanting to reach out beyond its front doors to do ministries that focus beyond their own communities and their present mission fields. With the District asking me to become a member of the Church Revitalization and Development Team, it seemed clear that we should become involved with the new church developments in IL/WI District. With that in mind, we forged ahead and came up with a plan we would like to share so that others might also consider doing something like this. We believe no church is too small to share in the process of growing a new church start and help “fill the pews” for God’s kingdom work!
During Lent this year, we used cloth bags that were sown for each member who chose to participate that had draw-string closures to them. They were to represent our “thirty pieces of silver” as we thought about giving up our change as a source of funding for one of the new churches.
We had decided to gift the Parables Church because we had taken them on as a partnership by inviting them to come and lead worship at our church this summer and bring their style to us so that we could experience being together with them. We were so moved by the experience, we decided to sponsor them with this love gift.
On Palm Sunday, we brought the bags forward and took the change to the bank. I took a check for $602.00 to Parables for their Celebration event. I hoped to show our support of their church beginning and to let other churches see how easy it is to help a new church in a cents-able way! God blesses us when we honor His ministries. We will be looking for ways to help more churches start and hope that many more churches will also do the same.
Polo COB has been intentional now for the last two years in wanting to reach out beyond its front doors to do ministries that focus beyond their own communities and their present mission fields. With the District asking me to become a member of the Church Revitalization and Development Team, it seemed clear that we should become involved with the new church developments in IL/WI District. With that in mind, we forged ahead and came up with a plan we would like to share so that others might also consider doing something like this. We believe no church is too small to share in the process of growing a new church start and help “fill the pews” for God’s kingdom work!
During Lent this year, we used cloth bags that were sown for each member who chose to participate that had draw-string closures to them. They were to represent our “thirty pieces of silver” as we thought about giving up our change as a source of funding for one of the new churches.
We had decided to gift the Parables Church because we had taken them on as a partnership by inviting them to come and lead worship at our church this summer and bring their style to us so that we could experience being together with them. We were so moved by the experience, we decided to sponsor them with this love gift.
On Palm Sunday, we brought the bags forward and took the change to the bank. I took a check for $602.00 to Parables for their Celebration event. I hoped to show our support of their church beginning and to let other churches see how easy it is to help a new church in a cents-able way! God blesses us when we honor His ministries. We will be looking for ways to help more churches start and hope that many more churches will also do the same.
DE Ponderings
Late-night show host Jimmy Kimmel opened his program Monday, May 1, with an emotional monologue about the birth of his son which occurred just a few days before. Shortly after the birth, a nurse noticed that the baby’s color was purple (Kimmel’s words). A doctor was summoned and upon further testing it was discovered the baby had been born with a heart defect. Efforts began immediately to call in a specialist who within hours performed surgery that saved the little boy’s life as well as helping him avoid complications later on in life. Kimmel expressed thanks to all those instrumental in providing such great care for his newborn son. He also spoke with emotion about other children in the Children’s Hospital where his son’s surgery was performed. He noted that his son and these other children had the opportunity for a future because of medical knowledge and care, and also because of medical insurance. He wondered what it would be like for children in need of such significant medical treatment without the availability of insurance. It was a plea for the insurance benefits available to all to continue. It was a plea for justice, for life, a voice for the most vulnerable—children and those unable to afford high-cost medical treatment.
Tuesday, May 2, I attended the area ministerial alliance meeting. The superintendent of the local school district had been invited to the meeting to share about a mentoring program he hoped the local religious community would partner in with the school. However, the message he brought turned in the direction of possible severe outcomes as the result of an unbalanced state budget. He painted a rather bleak picture of not only how children will be impacted but how total communities may end up struggling with public safety issues. He indicated that the school district is providing public assistance in other forms besides education, such as breakfast for children, winter coats as needed, and meeting other necessary needs. If schools close from lack of state funding then the additional services they provide will be eliminated as well. He also was clearly aware that other agencies and services were suffering from state funding woes. His thoughts are that writing letters and making phone calls to state legislators is not holding them to a higher code of accountability. He is not interested in a partisan approach to solve this problem. Rather he is interested in what is just for children and families. He is interested in finding a way to move the legislature to a more equitable treatment of an out of control problem.
The two aforementioned experiences have instilled within me a sense of urgency to become involved unlike at any other time. I, too, am not interested in any type of partisan political measure to bring resolution to the serious difficulties we face. I am interested, though, in finding just means and ways to bring all sides together to provide for the good of all, and especially for those most vulnerable.
My interest in becoming more involved stems from the urgent needs of the vulnerable and yet it’s something more. The urgency of need is a voice, a transcendent voice urging me to care for that which the Voice itself has created. It is a voice that speaks of the goodness of all creation, that all of that creation has dignity, and it is my responsibility to ensure that the dignity of all is sustained. It is a voice not of anger but of deep, deep compassion. It is a voice of compassion imploring the compassion within me to be shared for the good of my neighbor and of all creation. I’m ready to listen to that voice to become more compassionately involved. How about you?
Tuesday, May 2, I attended the area ministerial alliance meeting. The superintendent of the local school district had been invited to the meeting to share about a mentoring program he hoped the local religious community would partner in with the school. However, the message he brought turned in the direction of possible severe outcomes as the result of an unbalanced state budget. He painted a rather bleak picture of not only how children will be impacted but how total communities may end up struggling with public safety issues. He indicated that the school district is providing public assistance in other forms besides education, such as breakfast for children, winter coats as needed, and meeting other necessary needs. If schools close from lack of state funding then the additional services they provide will be eliminated as well. He also was clearly aware that other agencies and services were suffering from state funding woes. His thoughts are that writing letters and making phone calls to state legislators is not holding them to a higher code of accountability. He is not interested in a partisan approach to solve this problem. Rather he is interested in what is just for children and families. He is interested in finding a way to move the legislature to a more equitable treatment of an out of control problem.
The two aforementioned experiences have instilled within me a sense of urgency to become involved unlike at any other time. I, too, am not interested in any type of partisan political measure to bring resolution to the serious difficulties we face. I am interested, though, in finding just means and ways to bring all sides together to provide for the good of all, and especially for those most vulnerable.
My interest in becoming more involved stems from the urgent needs of the vulnerable and yet it’s something more. The urgency of need is a voice, a transcendent voice urging me to care for that which the Voice itself has created. It is a voice that speaks of the goodness of all creation, that all of that creation has dignity, and it is my responsibility to ensure that the dignity of all is sustained. It is a voice not of anger but of deep, deep compassion. It is a voice of compassion imploring the compassion within me to be shared for the good of my neighbor and of all creation. I’m ready to listen to that voice to become more compassionately involved. How about you?
Music and Memory at Pleasant Hills Village
I’m writing today to let you know about a program we have going on at Pleasant Hill Healthcare, called Music and Memory. We’ve received a small grant to get us started and we’re hoping to add to it.
Under the program, residents receive their own iPod shuffle and, working with their families, staff and volunteers create a personalized playlist. Research has shown that the memories implanted by music are among the last to be affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia. Music therapy can reach residents in ways that other therapies cannot.
Studies have shown music can help reduce anxiety and help with reducing Alzheimer’s-related behaviors. It is our hope that we can reduce the reliance on anti-anxiety and anti-depressant medication.
So, we are asking the Brethren churches for help. We are in need of gently used iPod shuffles, or in lieu of that, financial donations. We will use the money to purchase iPods, extra chargers, headphones and iTunes gift cards.
Thanks for your help and do not hesitate to ask if you have any questions about the program.
Darrin Barnett,
Director of Development
Pleasant Hill Village
Under the program, residents receive their own iPod shuffle and, working with their families, staff and volunteers create a personalized playlist. Research has shown that the memories implanted by music are among the last to be affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia. Music therapy can reach residents in ways that other therapies cannot.
Studies have shown music can help reduce anxiety and help with reducing Alzheimer’s-related behaviors. It is our hope that we can reduce the reliance on anti-anxiety and anti-depressant medication.
So, we are asking the Brethren churches for help. We are in need of gently used iPod shuffles, or in lieu of that, financial donations. We will use the money to purchase iPods, extra chargers, headphones and iTunes gift cards.
Thanks for your help and do not hesitate to ask if you have any questions about the program.
Darrin Barnett,
Director of Development
Pleasant Hill Village
Greetings from The Gathering Chicago
Greetings of peace sisters and brothers! Thank you for your prayers and support. Here are just a few pictures from the recent South Africa Easter Mission and The Gathering Chicago's first annual Global Leaders #Refresh Gathering on April 22 in Durban, South Africa. Please follow The Gathering Chicago on Facebook for videos and more pictures.We give thanks for great technology which allows us to link our Chicago and global communities in the powerful days and times.
I will be sharing the testimonies at our midweek Gathering on May 10th at 6pm and also at our Anniversary Gathering Sunday, May 21st at 5 p.m. May God bless you so much! It was an amazing time, and it's great to be back.
Our prayers are with you as each one goes forth in God's Assignment for these times. We are together in the prayers and in Christ's service.
God love, grace and peace abundantly,
Rev. LaDonna Nkosi
The Gathering Chicago
Theopoetics
Bethany Theological Seminary professor, Scott Holland, provided leadership for a continuing education event for ministers in our district, April 24 & 25, at Bishop Lane Retreat Center near Rockford, IL. Theopoetics was the subject that he shared with the event participants, which is also a new certificate program being offered by the seminary.
Theopoetics, simplistically stated, is a more imaginative expression of theology leading one deeper into the mystery and transcendence of God and spirituality. During the continuing education event, participants were given the opportunity to spend time reflecting and writing from this more imaginative posture. The result of this exercise was the conception of several pieces of creative writing. The writing was reflective of context (the place) and concept (thought). Participants were pleasantly surprised by the creativity and wonder of the writings. A suggestion was made to share this creativity in the district newsletter. Thus, this creative writing will be shared in this and subsequent newsletters. Enjoy!
Bells Ring by Ellis Boughton (Pastor, Yellow Creek Church of the Brethren, Pearl City, IL)
Theopoetics, simplistically stated, is a more imaginative expression of theology leading one deeper into the mystery and transcendence of God and spirituality. During the continuing education event, participants were given the opportunity to spend time reflecting and writing from this more imaginative posture. The result of this exercise was the conception of several pieces of creative writing. The writing was reflective of context (the place) and concept (thought). Participants were pleasantly surprised by the creativity and wonder of the writings. A suggestion was made to share this creativity in the district newsletter. Thus, this creative writing will be shared in this and subsequent newsletters. Enjoy!
Bells Ring by Ellis Boughton (Pastor, Yellow Creek Church of the Brethren, Pearl City, IL)
Bells ring
Doors open
Classrooms empty
Hallways fill, then empty
Diplomas given, parties held
Where is God?
Decisions made
Career then studies?
Studies then career?
Seek God
Love found
Vows made
God included
Bells ring
New life
Infants born
Children raised
God included
Years pass
Life concludes
God calls
Bells ring
Are you a DR, Nurse Practioner, RN, LPN, OR EMT?
The First Aid Office at Annual Conference in Grand Rapids is looking for DR.’s, RN’s, LPN’s and EMT’s who would be willing to volunteer a few hours during Annual Conference this summer. Dr. Rosalie McBride of Northern Indiana District is coordinating the First Aid Office this summer in Grand Rapids and would be glad to hear from willing volunteers!
Please contact her at: rosalie.l.mcbride@gmail.com
Please contact her at: rosalie.l.mcbride@gmail.com
Spiritual Direction
Spiritual direction is accompaniment, compassionate listening, and companionship for the spiritual journey. Self-understanding and spiritual growth come from sharing our joys, struggles, doubts, and questions, as we consider how and where the Spirit of God is moving in our lives. Anyone desiring deeper awareness of and communion with God, and a more substantive prayer life will benefit from meeting with a spiritual director.
Usually, spiritual direction takes place in periodic one-on-one meetings with a spiritual director. Group spiritual direction brings together several individuals for facilitated sharing and prayer. Spiritual directors encourage wonder, foster inquiry, and elicit compassion. Through attentive listening and reflection, they guide, support, and challenge directees. Confidentiality, empathy, and sensitivity to God’s abiding presence characterize interactions with a spiritual director.
The Church of the Brethren Spiritual Directors’ Network connects Brethren spiritual directors with each other and with those seeking a spiritual director. Members have received training in the art of spiritual direction and have an active prayer life. They are often called upon to provide retreat leadership, share written reflections, and teach spiritual practices at denominational events. The Network hosts an annual professional growth retreat each May.
Finding a Spiritual Director
Spiritual Directors International: sdiworld.org
Church of the Brethren district offices
Bethany Theological Seminary
Retreat centers
Email SpiritualDirectors@brethren.org to join the network, and for more information.
Usually, spiritual direction takes place in periodic one-on-one meetings with a spiritual director. Group spiritual direction brings together several individuals for facilitated sharing and prayer. Spiritual directors encourage wonder, foster inquiry, and elicit compassion. Through attentive listening and reflection, they guide, support, and challenge directees. Confidentiality, empathy, and sensitivity to God’s abiding presence characterize interactions with a spiritual director.
The Church of the Brethren Spiritual Directors’ Network connects Brethren spiritual directors with each other and with those seeking a spiritual director. Members have received training in the art of spiritual direction and have an active prayer life. They are often called upon to provide retreat leadership, share written reflections, and teach spiritual practices at denominational events. The Network hosts an annual professional growth retreat each May.
Finding a Spiritual Director
Spiritual Directors International: sdiworld.org
Church of the Brethren district offices
Bethany Theological Seminary
Retreat centers
Email SpiritualDirectors@brethren.org to join the network, and for more information.
Brethren Disaster Ministries Video
Brethren Disaster Ministries is sharing a new video about its work and ministries.
Assistant for Brethren Disaster Ministries and Children’s Disaster Services
The Church of the Brethren is seeking an individual to fill a full-time hourly position of program assistant for Brethren Disaster Ministries and Children’s Disaster Services (CDS). This position is located at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. Responsibilities include supporting the programming and administration of CDS; providing administrative, programming, and clerical support to the associate director of CDS; support of volunteers, volunteer training, and response; assistance with general administration of Brethren Disaster Ministries. Required skills and knowledge include administrative office skills, ability to relate with integrity and respect, strong interpersonal and written communication skills, ability to manage multiple simultaneous priorities, ability to learn and competently utilize new software, ability to keep information and records confidential, and the ability to uphold and support the basic beliefs and practices of the Church of the Brethren. An associate’s degree or high school graduation with equivalent work experience is required, as is proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Word, Excel, and Outlook. Applications are being received and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the position is filled. Request the application form by contacting Human Resources Manager, Church of the Brethren, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120; 800-323-8039 ext. 367; COBApply@brethren.org.
Seeking Donations of Children’s Books
The Church of the Brethren Workcamp Ministry is seeking donations of children’s books to be distributed during a workcamp in Flint, Mich., this summer. “Every aspect of life has been affected by the water crisis in Flint, Michigan--including literacy,” said an announcement. “Because of this, we plan to distribute books during the workcamp July 2-8, and we need your help with collecting them.” Send new and gently used children’s books to Flint Church of the Brethren or to the Workcamp Office, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120. Direct questions to Shelley Weachter, 847-429-4328. For more information about this Workcamp Ministry go to www.brethren.org/workcamps.
Kingian Nonviolence Conflict Reconciliation
On Earth Peace is inviting those planning to attend the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference this summer to a pre-Conference day of training in Grand Rapids, Mich., on Wednesday, June 28. The training will be focused on Kingian Nonviolence Conflict Reconciliation, and will provide an introduction to the philosophy and methodology of Martin Luther King Jr. “These trainings are transformational experiences that have helped thousands of people from around the world understand the depth of the philosophy of nonviolence, and learn to begin to bring the practices into their lives and their work. Kingian Nonviolence shows a path to put God's agape love into action,” said an announcement. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., with the workshop scheduled for 9 a.m.-5 p.m., with an hour break for lunch. The fee is $60. For an additional $10 fee, Church of the Brethren ministers may receive .7 continuing education units. More
information and registration are at https://goo.gl/forms/1gNAGv8FscuK2yci2.
information and registration are at https://goo.gl/forms/1gNAGv8FscuK2yci2.
“Explore Your Call” at Bethany Theological Seminary
Bethany Theological Seminary is holding the next “Explore Your Call” discernment event for high school students on June 16-26. The seminary is located in Richmond, Ind. Participants explore different, exciting paths of Christian ministry and where God is leading them. “Due to a generous grant, all qualified applicants will receive a full scholarship. Students pay only for their transportation to and from the event,” said an announcement. For more information contact professor Russell Haitch at 765-983-1827 or coordinator Brian Mackie at 765-465-5960.
“Forum on Poverty” Hosted by Canton
Canton (Illinois) Church of the Brethren hosted a “Forum on Poverty” on Thursday, March 23, “to create awareness and promote resolution about poverty in Fulton County,” reported the “Canton Daily Ledger.” Panelists represented Love INC, Spoon River Pregnancy Center, Graham Hospital, the YMCA and YWCA, the First Baptist Church, Canton Union School District 66, and the Health and Wellness Clinic of Fulton County. Find out more at www.cantondailyledger.com/news/20170322/forum-on-poverty-march-23.
Camp Bethel Seeks Food Services Coordinator
Camp Bethel seeks a full-time salaried Food Services coordinator. The camp is located in Fincastle, Va., in the Church of the Brethren’s Virlina District. Culinary experience or training is required, and staff management experience is preferred. This position is available beginning May 30, and must be filled no later than July 1. The new employee will overlap and work with the current Food Services coordinator until July 31. A starting benefits package includes $29,000 starting salary, optional family medical insurance plan, a pension plan, and professional growth funds. Read the online application instructions, a detailed position description, and more at www.CampBethelVirginia.org/jobs or e-mail questions to Camp Director Barry LeNoir at Barry@CampBethelVirginia.org.
Brethren Disaster Ministry Positions
The Church of the Brethren seeks individuals to fill two open support positions in the offices of the Brethren Disaster Ministries domestic rebuilding program and Children’s Disaster Services (CDS. The positions are located at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md.
The responsibilities of the rebuilding program assistant include providing volunteer management, program support, administrative and clerical support to the director, and assisting with program interpretation. Required skills and knowledge include administrative office skills, ability to relate with integrity and respect, strong interpersonal and written communication skills, ability to manage multiple simultaneous priorities, ability to learn and competently utilize new software, ability to keep information and records confidential, and ability to uphold and support the basic beliefs and practices of the Church of the Brethren. An associate’s degree or high school graduation with equivalent work experience is required, as is proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Responsibilities of the CDS program assistant include supporting the programming and administration of CDS; providing administrative, programming, and clerical support to the associate director; providing support for volunteers, volunteer training, and response; and assisting with general administration of Brethren Disaster Ministries. Required skills and knowledge include administrative office skills, ability to relate with integrity and respect, strong interpersonal and written communication skills, ability to manage multiple simultaneous priorities, ability to learn and competently utilize new software, ability to keep information and records confidential, and the ability to uphold and support the basic beliefs and practices of the Church of the Brethren. An associate’s degree or high school graduation with equivalent work experience is required, as is proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Applications are being received and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the positions are filled. Request an application form by contacting Human Resources Manager, Church of the Brethren, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120; 800-323-8039 ext. 367; cobapply@brethren.org.
The responsibilities of the rebuilding program assistant include providing volunteer management, program support, administrative and clerical support to the director, and assisting with program interpretation. Required skills and knowledge include administrative office skills, ability to relate with integrity and respect, strong interpersonal and written communication skills, ability to manage multiple simultaneous priorities, ability to learn and competently utilize new software, ability to keep information and records confidential, and ability to uphold and support the basic beliefs and practices of the Church of the Brethren. An associate’s degree or high school graduation with equivalent work experience is required, as is proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Responsibilities of the CDS program assistant include supporting the programming and administration of CDS; providing administrative, programming, and clerical support to the associate director; providing support for volunteers, volunteer training, and response; and assisting with general administration of Brethren Disaster Ministries. Required skills and knowledge include administrative office skills, ability to relate with integrity and respect, strong interpersonal and written communication skills, ability to manage multiple simultaneous priorities, ability to learn and competently utilize new software, ability to keep information and records confidential, and the ability to uphold and support the basic beliefs and practices of the Church of the Brethren. An associate’s degree or high school graduation with equivalent work experience is required, as is proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Applications are being received and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the positions are filled. Request an application form by contacting Human Resources Manager, Church of the Brethren, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120; 800-323-8039 ext. 367; cobapply@brethren.org.
We Are Able Workcamp
The We Are Able workcamp is currently searching for assistants (ages 18-plus) for the upcoming 2017 workcamp July 10-13 in Elgin, Ill. This workcamp provides an opportunity to serve in a community of persons of all abilities. Those who are studying to teach those with developmental disabilities, and/or want an experience where service is rooted in personal relationships will find it particularly rewarding. Recently money has become available to help offset the cost for assistants to attend the workcamp. More information about the We Are Able workcamp is available at www.brethren.org/workcamps. If you or someone you know is interested in attending as an assistant, please contact Emily Tyler, coordinator of the Workcamp Ministry, at etyler@brethren.org or 847-429-4396.
World Council of Churches (WCC) Positions
The World Council of Churches (WCC) is seeking to fill two positions: program executive for the Middle East; and intern for promotion, marketing, and communications.
The program executive for the Middle East will be stationed in Geneva, Switzerland, reporting to the director of the Commission of Churches on International Affairs, with a start date yet to be determined. Responsibilities include to analyze geopolitical and religious-cultural aspects of the dynamics in the region; maintain and nurture a specific Palestine/Israel focus within the regional context of the Middle East; provide support so as to enhance the contributions of the WCC to the ecumenical movement; undertake coordinating responsibilities for the Palestine/Israel Ecumenical Forum; among others. Qualifications include at least a university degree in a related field, three to five years of experience in an ecumenical or similar environment, good command of written and spoken English, with knowledge of the other working languages of the WCC (French, German, Spanish) an asset, among others. The deadline for applications is May 14. Full applications (Curriculum vitae, motivation letter, application form, copies of diplomas, and recommendation letters) are to be sent to recruitment@wcc-coe.org.
The intern for promotion, marketing, and communications is a six-month position located in Geneva, Switzerland, reporting to the WCC director of communications. The position will support and develop the Visitors’ Program, provide communication support for the WCC Communication Team, participate in marketing initiatives, while learning about and consolidating the intern’s own participation in the ecumenical movement. Qualifications include a minimum of a bachelor level degree in communications, marketing, or tourism, with interest in one or more of the related areas; strong personal commitment to the goal of justice and peace; excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work in a multi-cultural environment; communication skills, especially writing and speaking in English, with a knowledge of Spanish, French, and German appreciated, among others. Full applications (Curriculum vitae, motivation letter, application form, copies of diplomas and recommendation letters) are to be sent to recruitment@wcc-coe.org.
The program executive for the Middle East will be stationed in Geneva, Switzerland, reporting to the director of the Commission of Churches on International Affairs, with a start date yet to be determined. Responsibilities include to analyze geopolitical and religious-cultural aspects of the dynamics in the region; maintain and nurture a specific Palestine/Israel focus within the regional context of the Middle East; provide support so as to enhance the contributions of the WCC to the ecumenical movement; undertake coordinating responsibilities for the Palestine/Israel Ecumenical Forum; among others. Qualifications include at least a university degree in a related field, three to five years of experience in an ecumenical or similar environment, good command of written and spoken English, with knowledge of the other working languages of the WCC (French, German, Spanish) an asset, among others. The deadline for applications is May 14. Full applications (Curriculum vitae, motivation letter, application form, copies of diplomas, and recommendation letters) are to be sent to recruitment@wcc-coe.org.
The intern for promotion, marketing, and communications is a six-month position located in Geneva, Switzerland, reporting to the WCC director of communications. The position will support and develop the Visitors’ Program, provide communication support for the WCC Communication Team, participate in marketing initiatives, while learning about and consolidating the intern’s own participation in the ecumenical movement. Qualifications include a minimum of a bachelor level degree in communications, marketing, or tourism, with interest in one or more of the related areas; strong personal commitment to the goal of justice and peace; excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work in a multi-cultural environment; communication skills, especially writing and speaking in English, with a knowledge of Spanish, French, and German appreciated, among others. Full applications (Curriculum vitae, motivation letter, application form, copies of diplomas and recommendation letters) are to be sent to recruitment@wcc-coe.org.
Mt. Morris Double Anniversary
“A double anniversary is a reason for celebration for the Mt. Morris Church of the Brethren,” says the newsletter of the church in Mt. Morris, Ill., which is celebrating a special 150/60 anniversary--150 years since the congregation first formed, and 60 years since its current building was dedicated. “The congregation originally gathered and formed the Silver Creek Church of the Brethren in 1867, north of town. Over the years the congregation grew, worshiping at Mt. Morris College, then built the Seminary Ave. church in town, which is now the home to the Evangelical Free Church. Work began building a new church in the southwest part of Mt. Morris in 1956, and the new building was dedicated on May 5, 1957.” An evening of celebration on Saturday, May 6, at 6:30 p.m., will feature music by Jonathan Shively, followed by refreshments and celebration cake. The Sunday service at 9:30 a.m. on May 7 will feature former members and friends of the church, both in person and in videos, followed by a potluck meal.
2017 Brethren Bible Institute
The 2017 Brethren Bible Institute, sponsored for 43 years by the Brethren Revival Fellowship (BRF), will be held July 24-28 at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College. A variety of courses will be offered led by instructors Craig Alan Myers, Eric Brubaker, Carl Brubaker, Wilmer Horst, and Steve Hershey. Cost is $250 for those staying on campus; $100 for commuting students. Applications must be completed by June 25. Request application forms from Brethren Bible Institute, 155 Denver Rd., Denver, Pa. 17517.
Fall Comprehensive Springs Academy
Registration is open for the fall comprehensive Springs Academy, which take place as a telephone conference call for pastors and ministers. The opening session is Tuesday morning, Sept. 12, 8-10 a.m., and thereafter on Oct. 3 and 24, Nov. 14, and Dec. 5. “In these five, two-hour sessions, participants engage in spiritual disciplines for a Christ-centered approach and take a thorough course in servant-led church revitalization to go the next step,” said an announcement. “Three to five persons from the local church walk alongside, having discussions with their pastors. The primary texts are ‘Celebration of Discipline, The Path to Spiritual Growth’ by Richard Foster and ‘Springs of Living Water, Christ-centered Church Renewal’ by David Young.” Three videos made by David Sollenberger are free on the Springs website. Participants receive 1 continuing education credit. Contact David and Joan Young at 717-615-4515 or davidyoung@churchrenewalservant.org or go to www.churchrenewalservant.org.
Spiritual Directors' Retreat
2 pm Mon. – 1pm Wed.
Shepherd’s Spring
Sharpsburg, Maryland
On Becoming a Dancing Monk:
Creativity and the Sacred
Our time together: What would it be like to allow thoughts, emotions, longings, intentions, petitions, whimsy, delight, play, gratitude, grief, awe, to move through you in embodied prayer? While contemplating the principles of the “Monk Manifesto” (see back), we will explore simple movement forms entering into the path of embodiment and creativity. With time for reflection, silence, solitude, laughter and delight, we will explore what it could be like to be a playful/soulful member of the "Holy Disorder of Dancing Monks."
Our retreat leader: Betsey Beckman is internationally renowned as spiritual director, sacred dancer, choreographer, founder of The Dancing Word (www.thedancingword.com), and InterPlay leader. Through the Abbey of the Arts and in collaboration with others, she leads pilgrimages, creates resources and experiential trainings for spiritual directors. She has facilitated numerous events for Spiritual Directors International. When not traveling, she directs the Movement Ministry at her home parish, St. Patrick Catholic Church in Seattle.
Questions? Call Debbie Eisenbise at 1-800-323-8039 x. 306
Conflict Transformation Skills for Churches
Saturday, May 20, 20179:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Union Church of Hinsdale
137 S. Garfield Ave
Hinsdale, IL
Sponsor: Lombard Mennonite Peace Center
About the Workshop:
Conflict is a normal part of life, even in the church. Understanding this can help church members realize that they should not be surprised or ashamed when they experience conflict in their faith communities. What is important is how the conflicts that inevitably arise are addressed. The Conflict Transformation Skills for Churches workshop teaches some basic skills that will help participants manage conflicts within their congregations in a healthier manner.
The goal of the workshop is prevention. We want participants to gain the understanding and the skills needed to prevent destructive conflicts. We also want participants to see how church conflict can be transformed into an opportunity to learn something new about God’s will for their church.
The Lombard Mennonite Peace Center (LMPC) is a non-profit ministry whose mission is “to proclaim Christ’s good news, the gospel of peace and justice, and to be active in the sacred ministry of reconciliation.” This workshop is one of the ways that LMPC pursues its mission. Other popular workshops that LMPC has to offer include Healthy Congregations, Facilitating Healthy Pastor-Congregation Relations, and Leadership and Anxiety in the Church: A Family Systems Perspective.
