The Reflector - June 2023
Thursday, June 01, 2023
THE VILLAGE ILWIDIOT
Walt Wiltschek
“Be strong in your faith, just as you were taught. And be grateful.”
— Col. 2:7b, CEV
“Are you blessed?” music leader Gilbert Romero asked participants at this year’s denominational New and Renew conference, held in Elgin last month. When they agreed, his response came accompanied by a joyful smile: “Then act like it!”
With that, he and the band backing him launched into an energetic song that brought the room to its feet and had people offering expressions of praise.
Then act like it. It seems like a rather simple observation, but it’s good for us to be reminded occasionally. Others have noted that people don’t want to be part of a faith community full of dour, depressed faces. It’s hard to authentically praise God from a scowling mouth. Every moment of life won’t necessarily be happy, but we should hold a deep well of joy within us.
At the conference, story after story described the ways Jesus has been at work in places large and small across the church. A Spanish-speaking congregation in California talked about outgrowing their space. A pastor spoke about the simple pleasures in learning more about the community surrounding their church—what he calls “the theology of presence”—concluding that “neighboring is the essence of discipleship.” Another found encouragement in sharing the story of faith with a few others at a time, equipping them to go and share with a few more.
Josh Brockway, director of spiritual formation for the Church of the Brethren, talked about the practices of our faith that lead us on “an intentional journey of becoming like Jesus” that leads us to form “new selves, new relationships, and new imaginations.” And keynote speaker Jessie Cruickshank described the importance of trusting God and faithfully doing the piece of God’s work we’ve been given. “It’s not up to us to finish the work,” she said, “just to continue it.”
Those stories and experiences are signs of a church that still contains a lot of life, and a lot of joy. Everyone who was at the conference—including a number of people from our district—remarked on the uplifting energy and excitement felt in that worshipful, multi-cultural space.
As Gilbert continued with his music, he broke into one of his trademark songs: “I’m blessed, yes I know that I am, since Jesus took control of my life.”
Do you feel blessed, despite any challenges that you or your congregation might be carrying? Then let it show in your life. Others might just take notice.
“Be strong in your faith, just as you were taught. And be grateful.”
— Col. 2:7b, CEV
“Are you blessed?” music leader Gilbert Romero asked participants at this year’s denominational New and Renew conference, held in Elgin last month. When they agreed, his response came accompanied by a joyful smile: “Then act like it!”
With that, he and the band backing him launched into an energetic song that brought the room to its feet and had people offering expressions of praise.
Then act like it. It seems like a rather simple observation, but it’s good for us to be reminded occasionally. Others have noted that people don’t want to be part of a faith community full of dour, depressed faces. It’s hard to authentically praise God from a scowling mouth. Every moment of life won’t necessarily be happy, but we should hold a deep well of joy within us.
At the conference, story after story described the ways Jesus has been at work in places large and small across the church. A Spanish-speaking congregation in California talked about outgrowing their space. A pastor spoke about the simple pleasures in learning more about the community surrounding their church—what he calls “the theology of presence”—concluding that “neighboring is the essence of discipleship.” Another found encouragement in sharing the story of faith with a few others at a time, equipping them to go and share with a few more.
Josh Brockway, director of spiritual formation for the Church of the Brethren, talked about the practices of our faith that lead us on “an intentional journey of becoming like Jesus” that leads us to form “new selves, new relationships, and new imaginations.” And keynote speaker Jessie Cruickshank described the importance of trusting God and faithfully doing the piece of God’s work we’ve been given. “It’s not up to us to finish the work,” she said, “just to continue it.”
Those stories and experiences are signs of a church that still contains a lot of life, and a lot of joy. Everyone who was at the conference—including a number of people from our district—remarked on the uplifting energy and excitement felt in that worshipful, multi-cultural space.
As Gilbert continued with his music, he broke into one of his trademark songs: “I’m blessed, yes I know that I am, since Jesus took control of my life.”
Do you feel blessed, despite any challenges that you or your congregation might be carrying? Then let it show in your life. Others might just take notice.
DISTRICT EXECUTIVE SCHEDULE
In addition to regular meetings, Walt will be visiting Charismatic Christian Center June 18, doing a guest preaching spot in Mid-Atlantic District June 25, taking part in CODE meetings and Annual Conference in Cincinnati July 1-7, preaching for Mount Morris on July 9 and then assisting with Senior High Camp at Camp Emmaus July 9-15, preaching at Naperville July 16, and visiting in the district’s Northwest region July 23 and directing Middle School Camp at Camp Emmaus July 23-29.
Walt is available to visit your church, do pulpit supply, lead sessions, have conversation times, or otherwise connect with your congregation. Please contact IWDDE@outlook.com to schedule a time.
Walt is available to visit your church, do pulpit supply, lead sessions, have conversation times, or otherwise connect with your congregation. Please contact IWDDE@outlook.com to schedule a time.
UPCOMING MEETINGS & EVENTS
- Program and Arrangements Committee meeting, June 19, 6:30 p.m.
- Church of the Brethren Annual Conference and CODE meetings, July 1-8, Cincinnati
- Leadership Team meeting, Aug. 1, 6:30 p.m.
- Church Revitalization and Development Team (CRDT) meeting, Aug. 5, 9 a.m.
- Jen and Zech Houser ordination service, Aug. 13, Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren
- Ministry Leadership Development Team meeting, Aug. 22, 6 p.m.
- Church of the Brethren National Older Adult Conference, Sept. 4-8, Lake Junaluska, N.C.
IN OUR PRAYERS
Week of June 12: Pray for the Woodland congregation, and be in prayer for the National Junior High Conference being held June 16-18 at Juniata College in Pennsylvania—and for all the youth of our district.
Week of June 19: Pray for the Martin Creek congregation, and for the work of the Church of the Brethren’s Global Missions office as it connects and works with Brethren communities around the world.
Week of June 26: Pray for the Springfield First congregation, and for the Church of the Brethren Office of Ministry as it supports and equips pastors around the denomination.
Week of July 3: Be in prayer for the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference as the ‘big meeting’ occurs this week in Cincinnati. Pray for delegates as they make decisions for the church, for Annual Conference director Rhonda Pittman Gingrich, for moderator Tim McElwee and moderator-elect Madalyn Metzger, for Conference secretary David Shumate, and for the work of Standing Committee.
Week of July 10: Spend time in prayer for the ministry of Camp Emmaus in Mount Morris as it enters a new chapter of leadership and an ongoing story of ministry. Pray for all the children, youth, and others who pass through its gate this summer.
Week of July 17: Pray for the La Place congregation, and for the Church of the Brethren (Iglesia de los Hermanos) in the Dominican Republic.
Week of July 24: For the Charismatic Christian Center in Chicago and for The Gathering Chicago, as they provide ministry in the city and connections around the world.
Week of July 31: Pray for the Champaign congregation, and for all the ways that our congregations and others are seeking to be “Jesus in the Neighborhood” through community outreach.
Week of Aug. 7: Pray for the Freeport congregation, and for the faculty, staff, and students of Manchester University in Indiana.
MINISTRY NEWS
Zech and Jen Houser (Highland Avenue) have been approved for ordination by the district and the Highland Avenue congregation. An ordination service will be held at Highland Avenue the afternoon of Aug. 13. Zech is currently in a chaplaincy program, and Jen serves as archivist for the Church of the Brethren. We wish them both the best as they continue their ministry journeys!
Christy Waltersdorff (York Center) has announced her retirement, effective at the end of 2024. Christy has served as pastor there for more than 27 years and provided strong leadership in the district. The York Center congregation will be entering a process of goal-setting and visioning with consultant Greg Davidson Laszakovits beginning next month as it prepares for this transition.
Dennis Webb (Naperville) will be taking a much-deserved sabbatical this summer. We wish him well for a time of refreshment and renewal!
Congregational vacancies:
At this year’s Annual Conference in Cincinnati, an equipping session will be offered at 12:30 p.m. July 6 titled “Toolbox for Caring for Your Pastor: Money and Beyond.” Members of the denomination’s Pastoral Compensation and Benefits Advisory Committee will lead the session.
The denomination’s Part-time Pastor, Full-time Church program of the Office of Ministry invites pastors to come to “A Resting Place” with a simple three-minute guided prayer time in the form of videos to watch or listen to. Initial videos are presented by Erin Matteson, spiritual director and circuit rider of the program. Future videos will be offered by other Church of the Brethren spiritual directors, pastors, and congregational leaders. Look for this resource www.facebook.com/ptpftcbrethren.
Christy Waltersdorff (York Center) has announced her retirement, effective at the end of 2024. Christy has served as pastor there for more than 27 years and provided strong leadership in the district. The York Center congregation will be entering a process of goal-setting and visioning with consultant Greg Davidson Laszakovits beginning next month as it prepares for this transition.
Dennis Webb (Naperville) will be taking a much-deserved sabbatical this summer. We wish him well for a time of refreshment and renewal!
Congregational vacancies:
- Cherry Grove: Using regular pulpit supply
- Chicago First: Using lay team and pulpit supply; considering future options
- Dixon: Michael Cole is serving as interim
- Girard: Terry Link is assisting in providing pastoral leadership
- LaPlace: Steve Needham is serving as interim pastor
At this year’s Annual Conference in Cincinnati, an equipping session will be offered at 12:30 p.m. July 6 titled “Toolbox for Caring for Your Pastor: Money and Beyond.” Members of the denomination’s Pastoral Compensation and Benefits Advisory Committee will lead the session.
The denomination’s Part-time Pastor, Full-time Church program of the Office of Ministry invites pastors to come to “A Resting Place” with a simple three-minute guided prayer time in the form of videos to watch or listen to. Initial videos are presented by Erin Matteson, spiritual director and circuit rider of the program. Future videos will be offered by other Church of the Brethren spiritual directors, pastors, and congregational leaders. Look for this resource www.facebook.com/ptpftcbrethren.
CONGREGATIONAL/LOCAL NEWS
Despite a cool and rainy day outside, the inside of Yellow Creek Church of the Brethren (Pearl City, Ill.) was warmed with a large crowd as the congregation—one of the district’s oldest—celebrated its 175th anniversary on Sunday, June 11. Founded in 1848 by westward-moving Brethren, Yellow Creek hosted a denominational Annual Meeting in 1856, sent mission workers to Europe, and helped to start several other congregations in the region.
Pastor Ellis Boughton led worship in the full sanctuary on themes of healing and new life, followed by an abundant catered lunch in the church fellowship hall, where a historical display was also available for browsing. District executive Walt Wiltschek hosted an afternoon time of sharing, reflections, and a mini hymn sing that included “Simple Gifts,” written in 1848. Several former pastors brought greetings, and various bits of history were highlighted. About 100 people attended, ranging from infants to age 95.
Congratulations, Yellow Creek, and best wishes for the years ahead!
A BIT OF TRIVIA: The denominational Annual Meeting held in Stephenson County and hosted by Yellow Creek in 1856 was the first time the event took place in Illinois. Since then, it has returned to the state 10 more times: Lee County (1865), Macoupin County (1874), Lanark (1880), Decatur (1895), Naperville (1898), Springfield (1906), Champaign-Urbana (1960 and 1963), Carbondale (1984), and—most recently—Peoria (2005). It has also occurred in Wisconsin twice, both times in Milwaukee (1990 and 1999).
The $7,241 raised by Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren (Elgin, Ill.) in last fall’s CROP Hunger Walk warranted the congregation a Certificate of Appreciation from Church World Service. In a congratulatory cover note, Jon K. Skogen of CWS/CROP disclosed the church’s walk team ranked in the top 100 fundraising teams nationally for 2022.
“We have one goal: building a world where there is enough for all,” Skogen said of CROP’s partnership with congregations and communities across the nation. “We are building this world together through your efforts and the CROP Hunger Walk.”
The Certificate of Appreciation, on display on the bulletin board in the church’s fellowship hall, reveals donations achieved by Highland Avenue’s “cream of the CROP” fundraising team rank 82nd in the country. Highland Avenue’s participation in the march last Oct. 16 was led by Peg Lehman and enlisted 15 walkers. Overall, the churches of Elgin participating in the 2022 CROP Walk raised $24,000. [from Newsline, submitted by Howard Royer]
Cerro Gordo held its annual delicious Strawberry Festival on June 11.
Champaign will be part of a Juneteenth celebration in the city June 19.
Highland Avenue (Elgin, Ill.) on June 11 held a session led by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of News Services for the Church of the Brethren, about the recent centennial celebration of Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN, the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria).
Naperville will be hosting some visitors from EYN on July 16.
Pastor Ellis Boughton led worship in the full sanctuary on themes of healing and new life, followed by an abundant catered lunch in the church fellowship hall, where a historical display was also available for browsing. District executive Walt Wiltschek hosted an afternoon time of sharing, reflections, and a mini hymn sing that included “Simple Gifts,” written in 1848. Several former pastors brought greetings, and various bits of history were highlighted. About 100 people attended, ranging from infants to age 95.
Congratulations, Yellow Creek, and best wishes for the years ahead!
A BIT OF TRIVIA: The denominational Annual Meeting held in Stephenson County and hosted by Yellow Creek in 1856 was the first time the event took place in Illinois. Since then, it has returned to the state 10 more times: Lee County (1865), Macoupin County (1874), Lanark (1880), Decatur (1895), Naperville (1898), Springfield (1906), Champaign-Urbana (1960 and 1963), Carbondale (1984), and—most recently—Peoria (2005). It has also occurred in Wisconsin twice, both times in Milwaukee (1990 and 1999).
The $7,241 raised by Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren (Elgin, Ill.) in last fall’s CROP Hunger Walk warranted the congregation a Certificate of Appreciation from Church World Service. In a congratulatory cover note, Jon K. Skogen of CWS/CROP disclosed the church’s walk team ranked in the top 100 fundraising teams nationally for 2022.
“We have one goal: building a world where there is enough for all,” Skogen said of CROP’s partnership with congregations and communities across the nation. “We are building this world together through your efforts and the CROP Hunger Walk.”
The Certificate of Appreciation, on display on the bulletin board in the church’s fellowship hall, reveals donations achieved by Highland Avenue’s “cream of the CROP” fundraising team rank 82nd in the country. Highland Avenue’s participation in the march last Oct. 16 was led by Peg Lehman and enlisted 15 walkers. Overall, the churches of Elgin participating in the 2022 CROP Walk raised $24,000. [from Newsline, submitted by Howard Royer]
Cerro Gordo held its annual delicious Strawberry Festival on June 11.
Champaign will be part of a Juneteenth celebration in the city June 19.
Highland Avenue (Elgin, Ill.) on June 11 held a session led by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of News Services for the Church of the Brethren, about the recent centennial celebration of Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN, the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria).
Naperville will be hosting some visitors from EYN on July 16.
The district’s new Madtown Brethren project in Madison, Wis., will be recognized among other new church starts at this year’s Annual Conference in Cincinnati, during business on July 5.
Peoria First recently finished up a complete study of the New Testament from beginning to end that it began in 2015! A celebration party was being planned this month. It is also planning to restart a community prayer initiative that was halted by the pandemic.
Woodland (Astoria, Ill.) recently held a Vacation Bible School for children in the community.
Cherry Grove (Lanark, Ill.) has several special events coming up, including a potluck with homemade ice cream following worship on July 16 and an outdoor worship in its shelter with breakfast on Aug. 13, starting at 9:30 a.m. A wiener roast with homemade ice cream will take place Sept. 16 at 5:30 p.m. The congregation has also been gathering supplies for several area service organizations.
Do you have congregational news: celebrations, milestones, “Jesus in the Neighborhood” stories or other things to share with our district family? Please send those to the district office: andreag.iwdcob@gmail.com.
Peoria First recently finished up a complete study of the New Testament from beginning to end that it began in 2015! A celebration party was being planned this month. It is also planning to restart a community prayer initiative that was halted by the pandemic.
Woodland (Astoria, Ill.) recently held a Vacation Bible School for children in the community.
Cherry Grove (Lanark, Ill.) has several special events coming up, including a potluck with homemade ice cream following worship on July 16 and an outdoor worship in its shelter with breakfast on Aug. 13, starting at 9:30 a.m. A wiener roast with homemade ice cream will take place Sept. 16 at 5:30 p.m. The congregation has also been gathering supplies for several area service organizations.
Do you have congregational news: celebrations, milestones, “Jesus in the Neighborhood” stories or other things to share with our district family? Please send those to the district office: andreag.iwdcob@gmail.com.
DISTRICT BOOK STUDY
A district book study took place in May, with pastors Christy Waltersdorff (York Center) and Dennis Webb (Naperville) leading an energetic discussion of Osheta Moore’s book Dear White Peacemakers: Dismantling Racism with Grit and Grace. About a dozen people took part in the five-session online study.
Thank you to all those who participated; if you have ideas for future book studies, please contact the district office!
Thank you to all those who participated; if you have ideas for future book studies, please contact the district office!
NEW AND RENEW
The denomination’s “New and Renew” conference, held every other year, took place at the Church of the Brethren offices in Elgin, Ill., May 17-19, drawing people from across the country to explore themes of church planting, renewal, and revitalization. The Illinois/Wisconsin District Church Revitalization and Development Team (CRDT) offered scholarships for district members to attend, and eight people did so—participating either in person or virtually, joining a total group of about 100.
A band led by California pastor Gilbert Romero provided energetic and uplifting music and worship, surrounding a variety of workshops and several keynote sessions by Jessie Cruickshank—a minister, author, and neuroscience specialist from Colorado. Cruickshank said that to serve in ministry, “We have to be brave … and a little bit naïve,” noting that it requires a great deal of trust in God. She and other speakers encouraged congregations to be active in discipleship and building relationships.
Workshop topics (with a few led in Spanish) included youth ministry, church growth and planting, building trust, discernment and prayer, understanding the church’s neighborhood, transforming trauma, board practices, and sharing the love of Christ. Church of the Brethren staff Josh Brockway and Becky Ullom Naugle (Highland Avenue) were among those providing leadership, along with former Rockford pastor Samuel Sarpiya.
DISTRICT CONFERENCE
Madalyn Metzger, the 2023-2024 Church of the Brethren moderator—who is originally from the Springfield congregation but now lives in the Elkhart, Ind., area, will be with us and will share the message during the opening worship service.
The Lanark congregation is making arrangements for meals onsite, and plans for “equipping session” workshops, the conference auction, exhibits, and other events are under way. A block of hotel rooms is being reserved in Savanna. A pre-conference continuing education session for clergy (and other church leaders interested in attending) will feature Chris Douglas on the theme of spiritual practices.
Note that delegates will need to attend in person this year; no virtual option will be available. The church is working on being able to stream worship and business during the weekend, and segments will at minimum be recorded for later viewing.
The conference booklet should be available by early September. Watch for more details in the coming months!
NATIONAL OLDER ADULT CONFERENCE
Conference registration is $200 until July 15 (this does not include lodging and meals, which require a separate registration with the conference center—you will receive a link after registering). An online participation option is also available for $100. Special accommodations are available for those with mobility issues. Registration and more information are available at National Older Adult Conference (NOAC) – Discipleship Ministries (brethren.org). (For a paper form registration, contact Randi Rowan at 847-429-4303.)There is also a NOAC Facebook page. Registration closes Aug. 15.
The week includes worship, workshops, Bible study, ice cream socials, fellowship and activities, and more. The worship speakers this year include our own Christina Singh (Freeport) and Katie Shaw Thompson (Highland Avenue). Christy Waltersdorff (York Center) is the conference coordinator, and Leonard Matheny (Peoria) and Josh Brockway (Highland Avenue) are part of the planning team. Mark Charles, Ken Medema, Ted Swartz, Osheta Moore, Jeremy Ashworth, Deanna Brown, and Lexi Aligarbes are among the other featured speakers and performers, along with the famed "NOAC News" team.
For transportation, a bus is available through Western Plains District with pick-up points in St. Louis/southern Illinois available. Information on that is below. The return hotel stop is in Mount Vernon, IL. If you need assistance in making this rendezvous, please contact the district office. Direct flights to Asheville, N.C., are available from Chicago O'Hare or Midway airports (via United, American, or Allegiant), or connecting service is available from other cities.
BUS INFORMATION (David Fruth, coordinator): A bus leaving from McPherson, Kan., Sun., Sept. 3, will arrive at the conference on Mon., Sept. 4. After the conference is over the bus will return to McPherson arriving Sat., Sept. 9. Costs for the bus trip will be $425 including bus travel and two nights at a motel. For more information or to reserve a space on the bus contact David Fruth at 620-245-0674 or 316-708-1760 or email at davebonnie@cox.net. To hold a seat a $100 deposit is required by June 1.
YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS
The Center on Conscience & War (formerly NISBCO) was started by the Historic Peace Churches and supports people who are seeking conscientious objector status. The organization is running a contest for youth in grades 9-12 about why the military draft should be permanently eliminated. Top entries (a video and essay) win prizes up to $1,000. Submission deadline is June 30. Details and a link to the entry form are at #NoDraft Video/Essay Challenge - Center on Conscience & War. Winners will be announced in September. For questions, call 202-483-2220 or email ccw@centeronconscience.org.
CAMP NEWS
Camp Emmaus has announced its camping schedule for 2023:
The Camp Emmaus board has announced the launch of the Camp Emmaus Endowment Fund. The board has set a goal of raising $100,000 for the fund this year, helping to provide a new revenue stream for camp and allowing a wider range of planned and deferred gifts. A donor has offered a matching grant for all donations given through June 30. To learn more about this endowment, arrange to make a donation, or discover other ways to get involved, please reach out to treasurer Dan Radcliff at dradcliff@eder.org.
Camp Emmanuel has also announced its 2023 camping schedule:
In addition, Camp Emmanuel will be celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2023! A celebration at the camp, including the return of the traditional fish fry, is being planned for Sept. 30. Watch for details as they become available. Recent improvements at the camp completed or in process include air conditioning in the cabins, a wifi system for the main camp area, and an anti-erosion project along the dam.
Stay up to date on what’s happening at our district camps! Visit www.campem.com for Camp Emmanuel news and www.campemmaus.org for Camp Emmaus news.
June 17 Camp Work Day
July 9-15 Senior High Camp (Grades 9-12)
July 16-20 Intermediate Camp (Grades 3-5)
July 21-23 Young at Heart Camp (Young Adults/Adults)
July 23-29 Middle School Camp (Grades 6-8)
Aug. 4-6 Counselor-in-Training (CIT)
Aug. 5-6 Elementary Camp (Grades 1-2)
Aug. 10-12 Women’s Camp
Aug. 18-20 Men’s Camp
Sept. 1-4 Labor Day Weekend Family Camp
Sept. 16 Camp Appreciation Dinner
The Camp Emmaus board has announced the launch of the Camp Emmaus Endowment Fund. The board has set a goal of raising $100,000 for the fund this year, helping to provide a new revenue stream for camp and allowing a wider range of planned and deferred gifts. A donor has offered a matching grant for all donations given through June 30. To learn more about this endowment, arrange to make a donation, or discover other ways to get involved, please reach out to treasurer Dan Radcliff at dradcliff@eder.org.
Camp Emmanuel has also announced its 2023 camping schedule:
June 11-17 Middle School Camp
June 18-21 Junior Camp
June 23-25 Pre-Junior Camp
July 17-21 Day Camp
Aug. 11-13 Men’s Camp
Sept. 1-4 Family Camp
In addition, Camp Emmanuel will be celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2023! A celebration at the camp, including the return of the traditional fish fry, is being planned for Sept. 30. Watch for details as they become available. Recent improvements at the camp completed or in process include air conditioning in the cabins, a wifi system for the main camp area, and an anti-erosion project along the dam.
Stay up to date on what’s happening at our district camps! Visit www.campem.com for Camp Emmanuel news and www.campemmaus.org for Camp Emmaus news.
DISASTER RELIEF
As has been the practice in recent years, the Illinois/Wisconsin District has agreed to provide up to eight volunteers for the week following Thanksgiving, Nov. 26–Dec. 2, 2023. That week of volunteering again will be shared with the South/Central Indiana District. A major change from recent past Brethren Disaster Ministries assignments, is that the project site, Dawson Springs, Kentucky, is a relatively nearby “neighbor,” just 70 miles south of Evansville, Indiana. This provides a great opportunity for those who want to serve with BDM but hesitate to travel hundreds of miles to a project site.
Dawson Springs was in the path of the devastating outbreak of tornados that swept through eight states in December 2021 with Kentucky, Illinois, and Missouri the most heavily impacted. Estimates are that around 75 percent of the town of Dawson Springs, which was home to around 2,500 people, was leveled by a tornado. More information about the Dawson Springs BDM project is at www.brethren.org/bdm/rebuild/projects.
Click here to access a complete 2023 schedule for the Dawson Creek project. In addition to the week of Nov. 26, there are openings in other weeks in 2023 with the opportunity to join other districts. To register your interest in joining this year’s Illinois/Wisconsin group, contact our district disaster coordinator, Loren Habegger. To volunteer with other groups for the listed openings, contact Kim Gingerich at kgingerich@brethren.org.
Dawson Springs was in the path of the devastating outbreak of tornados that swept through eight states in December 2021 with Kentucky, Illinois, and Missouri the most heavily impacted. Estimates are that around 75 percent of the town of Dawson Springs, which was home to around 2,500 people, was leveled by a tornado. More information about the Dawson Springs BDM project is at www.brethren.org/bdm/rebuild/projects.
Click here to access a complete 2023 schedule for the Dawson Creek project. In addition to the week of Nov. 26, there are openings in other weeks in 2023 with the opportunity to join other districts. To register your interest in joining this year’s Illinois/Wisconsin group, contact our district disaster coordinator, Loren Habegger. To volunteer with other groups for the listed openings, contact Kim Gingerich at kgingerich@brethren.org.
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
In other Annual Conference news:
• The Nominating Committee of the Standing Committee of district delegates to the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference has presented the ballot for the 2023 Conference, with elections to be held during the meeting in Cincinnati:
Moderator-elect: Dava Hensley (Roanoke, Va.); Del Keeney (Mechanicsburg, Pa.)
Program and Arrangements Committee: Emmanuela Attelus (Miami, Fla.); Gail Heisel (La Verne, Calif.)
Mission and Ministry Board, Area 2: John Ballinger (West Salem, Ohio); Tina M. Hunt (Mansfield, Ohio)
Mission and Ministry Board, Area 3: Linetta Shalom Alley (Broadway, Va.); Deirdre Moyer (Eden, N.C.)
Bethany Theological Seminary board, representing clergy: Jennifer Hosler (Washington, D.C.); Jonathan Prater (Linville, Va.)
Bethany Theological Seminary board, representing laity: Mark Gingrich (Burnsville, Minn.); Julia Wheeler (La Verne, Calif.)
Eder Financial board: Raymond Flagg (Annville, Pa.); Dennis Kingery (Littleton, Colo.)
On Earth Peace board: Carol Young Lindquist (Fort Wayne, Ind.); Audrey Zunkel-DeCoursey (Portland, Ore.)
Pastoral Compensation and Benefits Advisory Committee: Lori Hurt (Boones Mill, Va.); Rudolph H. Taylor III (Cloverdale, Va.)
• Annual Conference has also announced preachers for the conference:
— Tuesday evening, July 4: Annual Conference moderator Tim McElwee will preach on the theme “Living God’s Love,” drawing on John 13:34-35, Ephesians 5:1-2, and 1 John 4:7-12.
— Wednesday evening, July 5: Sheila Wise Rowe, a Christian counselor, spiritual director, educator, writer, and keynote speaker for this year’s pre-Conference Brethren Ministers’ Association event, will preach on the theme “Bearing the Fruit of God’s Love,” drawing on Mark 12:28-34 and John 15:1-17.
— Thursday evening, July 6: Deanna Brown, founder and facilitator of Cultural Connections and a member of Beacon Heights Church of the Brethren in Fort Wayne, Ind., will preach on the theme “Responding in Love to the Needs of Others,” drawing on Luke 10:25-37 and 1 John 3:16-24.
— Friday evening, July 7: Jody Romero, pastor of Restoration Los Angeles (Calif.) Church of the Brethren and lead chaplain for the Los Angeles Christian Health Center, will preach on the theme “Seeing and Loving Like God,” drawing on Luke 7:36-50 and 1 Corinthians 13.
— Saturday morning, July 8: Audri Svay, an English professor, pre-school teacher, and pastor of Eel River Community Church of the Brethren in Silver Lake, Ind., will preach on the theme “Loving the Least in the Family of God,” drawing on Matthew 25:31-46 and John 21:15-19.
The worship services are being planned by Don Mitchell, Laura Stone, and David R. Miller. Beth Jarrett, the third-year Program and Arrangements Committee member, is chairing the worship team. Kyle Remnant will serve as music coordinator, Becca Miller as pianist, Marty Keeney as choir director, and Pam Hoppe as children’s choir director.
EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
The organization Faith+Lead (through Luther Seminary) has available on demand a 6-hour self-guided course called “Hybrid Ministry in a Post-Pandemic Church,” helping pastors and others think about ways to create a framework for church that engages and connects the entire community. Cost is $75. Learn more and register at https://t.e2ma.net/click/vfs32k/zarqt/3d8o7ab.
Lombard Mennonite Peace Center is offering a “Restorative Congregations” webinar via Zoom Nov. 2 (9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Central). “Conflict Transformation Skills for Churches” will be offered via Zoom Sept. 16 (9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Central). For more details and registration information, and to see other events, go to lmpeacecenter.org/all-events.
NCP Learning Tours: New Community Project will offer an educational trip to Lybrook, N.M., June 22-28, to Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons July 20-27, to central and southern Alaska Aug. 7-15, and to Nepal Jan. 5-16, 2024. These trips are open to all ages and explore the beauty of and challenges facing God’s creation and God’s children. Learn more at www.newcommunityproject.info/learning-tours.
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
The Brethren Volunteer Service office has two full-time volunteer positions open (serving as a BVSer) for a BVS orientation assistant and as assistant FaithX coordinator. For information on those opportunities, contact BVS director Chelsea Goss Skillen at cskillen@brethren.org.
The Brethren Heritage Center in Brookville, Ohio, seeks a part-time center manager. Responsibilities include overseeing operations and volunteers; facilitating, designing, and creating exhibits; promoting the center’s activities and collections; among additional responsibilities to be discussed at interview. Other desired skills and knowledge include a working knowledge of Brethren groups; computer/technology knowledge; and a focus on archives. The Brethren Heritage Center is an equal opportunity employer. Apply by sending a resume to ghoneyman@woh.rr.com or Brethren Heritage Center, c/o Gale Honeyman, Interim Director, Box 35, Laura, Ohio 45337.
Camp Brethren Heights in Rodney, Mich., has an upcoming opening for a part-time Camp Director position. Those interested in the position should contact the camp board chair, Jack Durnbaugh, at durnbaugh.family@yahoo.com. Learn more at www.campbrethrenheightsmi.org.
The Church of the Brethren’s Material Resources program seeks a sorter/packer for medical supplies to work at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. This full-time position includes sorting pallets of supplies, checking for expiration dates and sterilization, correct placement of items, pulling and packing of supplies, labeling of boxes, assisting with trailer loading and unloading, and other warehouse duties. Required skills and knowledge include ability to handle a variety of tasks accurately and efficiently, comprehension of product codes and other detailed information, ability to work compatibly and cooperatively with co-workers and volunteers, ability to lift 50 pounds, and ability to work with minimal supervision. The preferred candidate will have a high school diploma or equivalent experience. Full COVID-19 vaccination is a condition of employment. Resumes are being received now and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the position is filled. Apply by sending a resume’ to COBApply@brethren.org
The Western Pennsylvania District seeks a half-time district executive minister. The office location is negotiable, working remotely or on location at the district office in Jerome, Pa. Travel is required both within and outside of the district. Responsibilities include the primary areas of: officeofministry@brethren.org. Applicants are requested to contact three persons who are willing to provide a letter of reference.
PERSONNEL NOTES
William (Bill) Waugh has announced his retirement as district executive minister of the Southern Pennsylvania District effective Sept. 16, with compensation continuing through Dec. 31. He began in the position on January 1, 2014. During these years, Bill has given broad oversight to district ministries, in particular guiding the process of congregational withdrawals on behalf of the district. In addition to previous roles on the district level, Bill currently serves as the chair of the Council of District Executives (CODE). During his years as a member of CODE, he also served on the Gifts Discernment Committee. He has served several terms as a delegate to the Standing Committee. He represents the district on the governing board of the Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center, with whom he is also an instructor. Prior to his tenure in district ministry, Bill served as pastor for two congregations in Pennsylvania. He was licensed and ordained by the Walnut Grove congregation in the Western Pennsylvania District.
Bethany Theological Seminary Professor of Historical Studies H. Kendall Rogers has retired from teaching after more than four decades, completing his final courses during the spring semester at Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Ind. Rogers taught at Manchester College (now Manchester University) in North Manchester, Ind., for 30 years, then joined the Bethany faculty in 2008. While at Manchester, he also was for two years the resident director for Brethren Colleges Abroad in Marburg, Germany, and was resident director in China for the program’s pioneer semester there in 1986.
Stan Noffsinger retired from the position of chief executive officer of Timbercrest Senior Living Community in North Manchester, Ind., on May 31. He began work at Timbercrest in February 2019 as a “long-term interim” executive with a charge to help the community prepare for the next generation of residents. Previously, Noffsinger served as general secretary of the Church of the Brethren for nearly 13 years, ending in mid-2016, followed by a term of service working for the World Council of Churches in Geneva, Switzerland.
Christine Huiras assumed the position of executive director at Timbercrest Senior Living Community on June 1. She has nearly 30 years of experience with Timbercrest, beginning as the secretary/receptionist in 1994. While working for Timbercrest, she earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration from Huntington University in 2011 with honors, then went on to fill the positions of financial services director, managing director, chief financial officer, and chief operating officer.
Jennifer Jensen has resigned as program manager for the Thriving in Ministry initiative for the Church of the Brethren’s Office of Ministry. She will conclude her work on July 5. She has served in this role since December 13, 2021, managing the Part-time Pastor, Full-time Church program.
DENOMINATIONAL NEWS/NEWSLINE
Manchester University in North Manchester, Ind., is celebrating the 75th anniversary of peace studies with a special feature in the spring issue of its magazine. Manchester has the oldest undergraduate peace studies program in the world. The formal celebration of the anniversary will likely be this fall during Homecoming. The magazine also celebrates the university’s presidential transition. Find the spring issue online at magazine.manchester.edu/issue/spring-2023.
Plans are taking shape for the next unit of BVS volunteers: Orientation Unit 333, which will take place Aug. 1-9 at Inspiration Hills Camp in Burbank, Ohio. About 15-20 volunteers are expected to be part of this orientation. The nine-day gathering will include group-building, a variety of sessions, service opportunities, visiting some local congregations, preparing for projects, and more. Volunteers will be coming from across the US and Germany, the latter group through BVS’ European partner, EIRENE. Applications are still being accepted for that orientation, or for another unit that will take place this fall, Sept. 26-Oct. 4 at Camp Koinonia in Cle Elum, Wash. Projects are available across the US, in Central America, Ireland and Northern Ireland, Japan, and elsewhere. Learn more and apply at www.brethren.org/bvs.
Recent grants from the Church of the Brethren’s Global Food Initiative (GFI) are supporting food distribution to the Hispanic community in Lancaster, Pa., agriculture micro-projects by the Church of the Brethren in Venezuela, a community garden project of the Church of the Brethren in Spain, and sustainable agriculture education in Burundi. Find the latest newsletter from GFI at mailchi.mp/brethren/gfi-update-2023-5.
Brethren Disaster Ministries has directed grants this spring from the Church of the Brethren’s Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF) for a tornado response and rebuilding program in Kentucky, aid to Ukrainian refugees and others affected by the war, a hurricane response in Honduras, projects of the Church of the Brethren in the Democratic Republic of Congo, among other needs. The seven recent grants total more than $375,000.
Ecumenism Metro Chicago and Chicagoland Christians United for the Care of Creation are planning a Declaration for the Care of Creation Signing Ceremony on Aug. 17 at 10 a.m. at McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago. It will be held in conjunction with the Parliament of the World’s Religions, which is taking place there Aug. 14-18—drawing as many as 10,000 participants from 80 nations.
Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, and one of the places people are coming together to mark the occasion is on Facebook. A “Brethren Volunteer Service–75th Anniversary” Facebook group has been created, and more than 500 people have joined. A flurry of photos, stories, and other recollections have been filling the page’s feed, from the earliest years of BVS up to the present. It’s a public group, so anyone can view the page at www.facebook.com/groups/709470850904528.
And a new book celebrating the BVS anniversary, A Year of Living Differently, by author Jim Lehman, is now available from Brethren Press. Cost is $19.48. Order at www.brethrenpress.com or call 800-441-3712. Anniversary observances are also planned for Annual Conference and National Older Adult Conference.
The 2023 Song and Story Fest family camp co-sponsored by On Earth Peace will be hosted at Camp Peaceful Pines July 29-Aug. 4. The camp and outdoor ministry center of the Church of the Brethren’s Pacific Southwest District is located in the Sierra Nevada mountains between Lake Tahoe and Yosemite National Park, near Dardanelle, Calif. The theme for this year’s Sierra Wildfire Song and Story Fest is “After the Fire…” (Psalm 19:1-3). The event is billed as an intergenerational camp for all ages, individuals, and families. Storytellers, musicians, and workshop leaders include Rhonda and Greg Baker, Hannah Button-Harrison, Matt Guynn, Bill and Jacob Jolliff, Erin and Cody Flory Robertson, Anna Lisa Gross, Kathy Guisewite, Jonathan Hunter, Jim and Peg Lehman, Mike Stern, and Barbara West. Registration includes all meals, on-site facilities, and leadership, and is based upon age–adults $370, teens $240, children age 5 to 12 $150, children 4 and under free–with a maximum fee per family of $1,000. Daily fees are available. Registrations after July 1 add 10 percent as a late fee. Register online at onearthpeace.org/song_and_story_fest_2023.
The annual Clergywomen’s Breakfast will be held on July 5 at Annual Conference in Cincinnati. The keynote speaker, Margaret “Maggie” Elwell, is Assistant Professor of Peace Studies at Bethany Theological Seminary. Elwell has served as director of the Center for Theology, Women, and Gender at Princeton Seminary, taught English and humanities in Baltimore City Public Schools, and provided leadership to projects focused on social justice and disaster relief. She is a critical theorist of violence and a narratologist. Tickets can be purchased when registering for Annual Conference; if you have already registered, use the Additional Purchases button. Tickets will also be available while they last onsite. A limited number of partial scholarships are available. Contact officeofministry@brethren.org for information.
The Church of the Brethren Office of Ministry has created an online video resource of six segments featuring congregations that are creatively practicing the priesthood of all believers and thereby meeting their needs for pastoral leadership. At a time when congregations are struggling to find pastors to serve their needs, this series produced by videographer David Sollenberger is offered as a reminder that God places abundant spiritual gifts within congregations, just waiting to be discovered, affirmed, and nurtured. The series features three congregations, Warrensburg and Cabool in Missouri and Arkansas District, and Clover Creek in Middle Pennsylvania District. Their pastoral teams consist of as few as two to as many as five people. The series is a testimony to the effectiveness of the Brethren practice of the priesthood of all believers in fostering a culture of calling set-apart ministers. Find the new resource at www.brethren.org/ministryoffice/shared-ministry-model.
The seventh Brethren World Assembly will take place July 26-29 at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College and at Germantown Church of the Brethren in Philadelphia on the final day, July 29. The theme of the assembly is “Brethren Faithfulness: Priorities in Perspective.” The gathering marks 300 years of the Brethren in America and the 300th anniversary of the Germantown Church. The event also marks the centennial of Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN, the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria). The scheduled sessions relate to the history and developments of the Brethren in America from 1723 up to the Civil War, with an additional session about EYN. Opening devotions and evening worship services will open and close each day. For the entire Assembly, July 26-29, including the day at Germantown, fees are $310 (early bird cost, registered by May 15) or $370 (tegular cost, registered between May 16 and June 15). For the days in Elizabethtown only, July 26-28, fees are $190 (early bird, registered by May 15) or $225 (regular cost, registered between May 16 and June 15). One-day options are also available. Lodging is additional. Registration closes June 15. For more information, contact BWA23@etown.edu or call 717-327-8188.
Creation Justice Ministries, which is a partner organization for the Church of the Brethren’s Office of Peacebuilding and Policy is relaunching a “52 Ways to Care for Creation” bulletin insert series. Each week’s bulletin insert highlights a creation justice idea for action or reflection that corresponds with the season or the church calendar. Find out more at www.creationjustice.org/resource-hub/category/bulletin-insert.
Plans are taking shape for the next unit of BVS volunteers: Orientation Unit 333, which will take place Aug. 1-9 at Inspiration Hills Camp in Burbank, Ohio. About 15-20 volunteers are expected to be part of this orientation. The nine-day gathering will include group-building, a variety of sessions, service opportunities, visiting some local congregations, preparing for projects, and more. Volunteers will be coming from across the US and Germany, the latter group through BVS’ European partner, EIRENE. Applications are still being accepted for that orientation, or for another unit that will take place this fall, Sept. 26-Oct. 4 at Camp Koinonia in Cle Elum, Wash. Projects are available across the US, in Central America, Ireland and Northern Ireland, Japan, and elsewhere. Learn more and apply at www.brethren.org/bvs.
Recent grants from the Church of the Brethren’s Global Food Initiative (GFI) are supporting food distribution to the Hispanic community in Lancaster, Pa., agriculture micro-projects by the Church of the Brethren in Venezuela, a community garden project of the Church of the Brethren in Spain, and sustainable agriculture education in Burundi. Find the latest newsletter from GFI at mailchi.mp/brethren/gfi-update-2023-5.
Brethren Disaster Ministries has directed grants this spring from the Church of the Brethren’s Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF) for a tornado response and rebuilding program in Kentucky, aid to Ukrainian refugees and others affected by the war, a hurricane response in Honduras, projects of the Church of the Brethren in the Democratic Republic of Congo, among other needs. The seven recent grants total more than $375,000.
Ecumenism Metro Chicago and Chicagoland Christians United for the Care of Creation are planning a Declaration for the Care of Creation Signing Ceremony on Aug. 17 at 10 a.m. at McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago. It will be held in conjunction with the Parliament of the World’s Religions, which is taking place there Aug. 14-18—drawing as many as 10,000 participants from 80 nations.
Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, and one of the places people are coming together to mark the occasion is on Facebook. A “Brethren Volunteer Service–75th Anniversary” Facebook group has been created, and more than 500 people have joined. A flurry of photos, stories, and other recollections have been filling the page’s feed, from the earliest years of BVS up to the present. It’s a public group, so anyone can view the page at www.facebook.com/groups/709470850904528.
And a new book celebrating the BVS anniversary, A Year of Living Differently, by author Jim Lehman, is now available from Brethren Press. Cost is $19.48. Order at www.brethrenpress.com or call 800-441-3712. Anniversary observances are also planned for Annual Conference and National Older Adult Conference.
The 2023 Song and Story Fest family camp co-sponsored by On Earth Peace will be hosted at Camp Peaceful Pines July 29-Aug. 4. The camp and outdoor ministry center of the Church of the Brethren’s Pacific Southwest District is located in the Sierra Nevada mountains between Lake Tahoe and Yosemite National Park, near Dardanelle, Calif. The theme for this year’s Sierra Wildfire Song and Story Fest is “After the Fire…” (Psalm 19:1-3). The event is billed as an intergenerational camp for all ages, individuals, and families. Storytellers, musicians, and workshop leaders include Rhonda and Greg Baker, Hannah Button-Harrison, Matt Guynn, Bill and Jacob Jolliff, Erin and Cody Flory Robertson, Anna Lisa Gross, Kathy Guisewite, Jonathan Hunter, Jim and Peg Lehman, Mike Stern, and Barbara West. Registration includes all meals, on-site facilities, and leadership, and is based upon age–adults $370, teens $240, children age 5 to 12 $150, children 4 and under free–with a maximum fee per family of $1,000. Daily fees are available. Registrations after July 1 add 10 percent as a late fee. Register online at onearthpeace.org/song_and_story_fest_2023.
The annual Clergywomen’s Breakfast will be held on July 5 at Annual Conference in Cincinnati. The keynote speaker, Margaret “Maggie” Elwell, is Assistant Professor of Peace Studies at Bethany Theological Seminary. Elwell has served as director of the Center for Theology, Women, and Gender at Princeton Seminary, taught English and humanities in Baltimore City Public Schools, and provided leadership to projects focused on social justice and disaster relief. She is a critical theorist of violence and a narratologist. Tickets can be purchased when registering for Annual Conference; if you have already registered, use the Additional Purchases button. Tickets will also be available while they last onsite. A limited number of partial scholarships are available. Contact officeofministry@brethren.org for information.
The Church of the Brethren Office of Ministry has created an online video resource of six segments featuring congregations that are creatively practicing the priesthood of all believers and thereby meeting their needs for pastoral leadership. At a time when congregations are struggling to find pastors to serve their needs, this series produced by videographer David Sollenberger is offered as a reminder that God places abundant spiritual gifts within congregations, just waiting to be discovered, affirmed, and nurtured. The series features three congregations, Warrensburg and Cabool in Missouri and Arkansas District, and Clover Creek in Middle Pennsylvania District. Their pastoral teams consist of as few as two to as many as five people. The series is a testimony to the effectiveness of the Brethren practice of the priesthood of all believers in fostering a culture of calling set-apart ministers. Find the new resource at www.brethren.org/ministryoffice/shared-ministry-model.
The seventh Brethren World Assembly will take place July 26-29 at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College and at Germantown Church of the Brethren in Philadelphia on the final day, July 29. The theme of the assembly is “Brethren Faithfulness: Priorities in Perspective.” The gathering marks 300 years of the Brethren in America and the 300th anniversary of the Germantown Church. The event also marks the centennial of Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN, the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria). The scheduled sessions relate to the history and developments of the Brethren in America from 1723 up to the Civil War, with an additional session about EYN. Opening devotions and evening worship services will open and close each day. For the entire Assembly, July 26-29, including the day at Germantown, fees are $310 (early bird cost, registered by May 15) or $370 (tegular cost, registered between May 16 and June 15). For the days in Elizabethtown only, July 26-28, fees are $190 (early bird, registered by May 15) or $225 (regular cost, registered between May 16 and June 15). One-day options are also available. Lodging is additional. Registration closes June 15. For more information, contact BWA23@etown.edu or call 717-327-8188.
Creation Justice Ministries, which is a partner organization for the Church of the Brethren’s Office of Peacebuilding and Policy is relaunching a “52 Ways to Care for Creation” bulletin insert series. Each week’s bulletin insert highlights a creation justice idea for action or reflection that corresponds with the season or the church calendar. Find out more at www.creationjustice.org/resource-hub/category/bulletin-insert.
WHAT COULD YOU DO WITH $100?
The district's Church Revitalization and Development Team (CRDT) is taking applications for two new grant programs. A total of 10 combined grants ($100 each) from the two programs will be given this year, and any congregation in the Illinois & Wisconsin District is welcome to apply.
First, a Being Jesus in the Neighborhood Grant: Congregations can apply for seed money to start a new outreach project or initiative in their local communities, or to expand an existing one. These should be projects that intentionally engage with the neighborhood immediately around the congregation, or—for those in rural locations—with the town or area around the church. Each congregation receiving a grant will be asked to share a little about their project at district conference.
Second, a Give Your Pastor a Break Grant: Congregations can apply for up to $100 for a grant to cover or help cover a guest speaker for an extra Sunday to give your pastor a day off--or at least a day off from having to prepare and preach a sermon. Any time can be challenging to be a pastor, especially when many are filling those roles part-time, and the pandemic and other current events have made it especially so. We hope this might be part of the ways you care for your pastor.
Each congregation may receive only one grant per calendar year. Applications are available on the district website (iwdcob.org), or contact the district office. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Blessings to each of you as you faithfully seek to serve your communities!
GRANTS & GIVING
Is your congregation beginning a new mission outreach program but a little short on cash? Is your congregation faced with a major repair or capital improvement project that exceeds your congregation’s capacity to pay for it? Did you know that the district has a program to assist with your needs? It’s called the Mission and Mortar Grant/Loan Program and is available to help meet the needs mentioned above.
Grants are available up to $2,500, and non-interest bearing loans up to $5,000. A congregation that applies must provide financial data and be a regular contributor to the district. Applications are considered on a first-come first-served basis and are reviewed/approved by the district Leadership Team.
If you would like more information or wish to apply, visit the district website. Send completed applications to the IL/WI District Office, 269 E. Chestnut St., Canton, IL 61520.
SUPPORTING YOUR DISTRICT
The Illinois/Wisconsin District is active in a variety of ministry and mission efforts, both directly and indirectly. For these efforts to continue, resources are needed in the form of time, tools, knowledge, and especially finances.
Consider making a contribution to one or more of the following:
- Disaster Relief Fund
- Endowment Fund
- Mission and Mortar Fund
- Youth Fund (new!)
- General Fund
- Emerging Ministries
- Ministry Training
Look for the donate button at iwdcob.org, or send your checks to the district office: 269 E. Chestnut St., Canton, IL 61520. Thank you!
