The Reflector - March 2025

The Village ILWIDIot

 Walt Wiltschek 

“You’re blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That’s when you discover who you really are, and your place in God’s family.” —Matthew 5:9, The Message

Recently, at a church potluck meal, I was reminded of a well-worn and well-loved story. Talking about how the meal always seems to fill out the table and the breadth of the menu, one of the congregation members said, “It’s like stone soup. Everyone brings something, and it all works.” 

For any of you unfamiliar with the “Stone Soup” story, it tells of a village where the people were hungry, and they were hesitant to share what they had. Until … a stranger arrives in town and pulls out a large pot and a “magic stone” that would produce enough soup for all. The stranger gradually teases out other items that would be helpful—cabbage, potatoes, carrots, beef—and curious villagers bring them. Eventually, of course, there IS enough for everyone. 

The story came to mind again on Feb. 22, when a sizeable contingent from our district were among about 80 people who took part in an online workshop on “Changing Mindsets for Ministry” (read more below). Jeff MacDonald, our leader for this morning, is a pastor and journalist who has been researching the trend toward fewer and fewer full-time pastors in congregations, and how the church is adapting. 

For many congregations—including quite a few here in Illinois/Wisconsin—that shift has involved greater involvement of lay members in the ministry of the church. In some settings, that means shared ministry teams with a person who has some theological training as an “anchor” for the team (and several of those will be sharing at our “Potluck Experience” event later this month); for others, it has meant calling out ministers from within to take on some of those pastoral-type roles; for others, it’s been a hybrid of pulpit supply and members picking up various pieces to keep things going. 

As Jeff reminded us, that’s not a bad thing. Despite a tendency in the modern church to see the lack of a full-time pastor as diminishing the congregation, it actually can be quite the opposite. It’s a New Testament model that can create empowerment, free up resources, and open up new connection points. The Church of the Brethren, in particular, spent its first two centuries with a tradition of free ministry and a belief in the “priesthood of all believers,” where everyone contributes to the work of the church from the gifts they bring (although admittedly, it took quite a while till the gifts of women were fully embraced!). 

Here in the 21st century, we once again have the opportunity to be invested, all of us, in the ministry of our congregations. Theological training is still valuable, and not everyone will feel called to preach or teach or do visitation or outreach, but together our gifts can create a rather rich tapestry of being the body of Christ. Together, with God’s help, we are enough.

DISTRICT EXECUTIVE SCHEDULE

In addition to regular meetings, Walt will be worshiping at York Center March 9, worshiping and visiting with Virden and visiting Girard March 16, worshiping at Naperville March 23, attending the district Potluck Experience event in Peoria March 29, and preaching at Neighborhood April 13. Walt will be on vacation March 30-April 6. 

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. He is half-time and is usually on district duty late afternoons/evenings on weekdays plus weekends.

UPCOMING MEETINGS & EVENTS

• Church Revitalization and Development Team, March 22, 9 a.m. 
• Property & Assets Management Team, March 25, 7 p.m. 
• Potluck Experience 2025, Peoria First Church of the Brethren, March 29, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 
• Leadership Team, April 1, 7 p.m. 
• Gifts Discernment and Call Committee, April 8, 7:15 p.m. 
• Ministry Leadership Development Team, April 9, 6:30 p.m. 
• Potluck Experience wrap-up meeting, April 10, 7 p.m. 
• Program & Arrangements Committee, April 23, 7 p.m. 
• District Clergy Gathering and CEU event, Bishop Lane Retreat Center, Rockford, May 1-2 
• Annual Conference briefing with moderator Dava Hensley, June 14, 10 a.m. 
• Church of the Brethren Annual Conference, July 2-6, Greensboro, N.C. 

[all meetings via Zoom unless otherwise noted]

IN OUR PRAYERS

A district prayer calendar has been created for your use in praying for our district and related programs through the year. We invite you to include the following in your prayers in coming weeks: 

Week of March 9: Pray for the Panther Creek congregation in Roanoke, Ill., and for the large and vibrant Church of the Brethren faith community in Nigeria (Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria). 

Week of March 16: Pray for Brethren Disaster Ministries and its work at various sites, for district disaster coordinator Rick Koch, and for all those who serve in the wake of disasters. Remember those in North Carolina and elsewhere in the Southeast recovering from last year’s severe hurricanes. 

Week of March 23: Pray for the district’s Potluck Experience Team, and for the special biennial “Potluck Experience” event taking place at Peoria on March 29, considering the ways that we are called by God. 

Week of March 30: Pray for the Dixon congregation, and for the work of the denomination’s Discipleship and Leadership Formation office as it equips congregations across the country. 

Week of April 6: Pray for the district’s Gifts Discernment and Call Committee as it calls leaders for the work of the church, and for youth and advisors attending this year’s Church of the Brethren Christian Citizenship Seminar in Washington, D.C. 

Week of April 13: As we journey through Holy Week and on to the new life of Easter, spend time in quiet reflection, then rejoice in hope of Christ’s resurrection and all the new things that God is doing among us.

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT TRANSITION

Peg Moylan, our part-time district administrative assistant, submitted her resignation to the district leadership team on Feb. 21. Her last day with us will be March 7. Peg said she enjoyed the district work over these past few months but felt it was too much for her to take on at this time. She will be continuing in her role as part-time office administrator for the York Center congregation and helping them through their time of pastoral transition. 

District executive Walt Wiltschek will cover the office administrative duties in the short term. Email him at iwdde@outlook.com. District mail can continue to be sent to the district office at York Center Church of the Brethren, 1S071 Luther Ave., Lombard, IL 60148. For phone, you can use the new district line at 630-644-4259 or contact Walt directly on his cell phone at 630-440-6089. He usually works late afternoons/evenings and weekends in the district role. Peg's district email will be phased out in the weeks ahead. 

The district leadership team will review the position description with plans to hire a new part-time administrative assistant in the coming months. If you know of someone who might have interest in the position, please be in touch with Walt or a member of leadership team.

MINISTRY NEWS

Northwest region pastors will be meeting at 2 p.m. March 18 at the Mount Morris church. 

The Church of the Brethren will offer an in-person ethics training during the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference in Greensboro, N.C., on Wednesday, July 2, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Eastern, for those who still need it for this cycle. Participants will receive 0.5 CEU’s. Please let the district office know by June 1 if you plan to attend this session. The district also will plan to offer one more training through the denomination’s Ministry Office in late summer or early fall for any others who still need to complete it. The training is required every five years as part of the ordination/commissioning renewal cycle, which ends in 2025. 

All ministers should also begin gathering information for their CEU report, which will be due beginning mid-2025. Copies of the continuing education report form can be found at https://www.brethren.org/ministryoffice/forms/. The district Ministry Leadership Development Team (MLDT) will be completing document reviews and renewals for all credentialed ministers in the district later this year. Please contact the district office with any questions. 

This year’s pre-Annual Conference Ministers’ Association continuing education event will focus on the theme “A Place for Every Body: Disability, Accessibility, and the Church.” The conference will be presented by Jeanne Davies (York Center), executive director of the Anabaptist Disabilities Network, who will offer sessions on “What Disables Us?,” “Creating Accessible Congregations,” and “Accessible Worship.” Registration opened March 5. Plan to arrive on Tuesday, July 1, in time for the Meet and Greet dinner and the opening session that evening. The Wednesday, July 2, sessions conclude at 4 p.m. Find the registration link and flyer at www.brethren.org/ministryoffice/sustaining/#event. 

Eder Financial recently rolled out its Flourishing in Ministry program in partnership with Biola University, providing free coaching and assistance to pastors and clergy. An email with information was recently sent out to all clergy. For more information, contact Eder Financial at dparrott@eder.org or 800-746-1505. 

Congregational vacancies: 

Dutchtown (Milledgeville): The congregation is currently using pulpit supply, with Tim Livengood, Ed Livengood, and Randall Westfall among those periodically filling the pulpit. District executive Walt Wiltschek met with the board on Feb. 23 to help develop future plans. 

Highland Avenue (Elgin): The congregation has called Krista Dutt (Chicago First) as its interim pastor, beginning April 1. Krista completed her M.Div. at Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary and will be going through the credentialing process in our district. The congregation is working on a congregational profile and calling a search committee. District executive Walt Wiltschek met with the church on Feb. 16. 

Lanark: A search committee has been formed, and the congregational profile has been posted. Rick Koch will be serving as part-time interim through March, preaching two to three Sundays per month. Randall Westfall is also filling the pulpit once a month. A possible longer-term interim possibility is being considered. 

Woodland: Local pastor Mathew Thiner is serving as an interim preacher and providing some pastoral care. Woodland member Kevin Sager is also helping to provide interim leadership, aided by a congregational team. 

York Center: A search committee has been formed, and a congregational profile has been published. Jonathan Shively and Tony Asta are serving as an interim pastoral team through at least June 30. District executive Walt Wiltschek met with the search committee in early February, and another meeting is scheduled during March.

CONGREGATIONAL/LOCAL NEWS

Global Food Initiative Application Invitation: Congregations are invited to apply for a Global Food Initiative (GFI) grant, to support efforts to address domestic hunger and homelessness. In the past, Global Food Initiative grants have supported congregation-based garden projects, soup kitchens, food pantries, and more. If you have an idea and would like to discuss, please feel free to reach out to the Global Food Initiative Manager, Jenn Hosler, by emailing her at jhosler@brethren.org. An application form is available at: www.cognitoforms.com/ChurchOfTheBrethren1/GlobalFoodInitiativeGrantApplication. 

The Church of the Brethren Yearbook office has advised that Yearbook forms are coming out later than usual this year due to technology issues at the General Offices. In the meantime, the Statistics Form is available in PDF format at www.brethren.org/yearbook. Congregations wishing to use this form will need to get their 12/31/23 membership number from the most recent Yearbook. 

Freeport will be hosting Annual Conference moderator Dava Hensley for a visit on Sunday, May 11, when Dava will be preaching and staying for conversation and a potluck meal. Anyone else from the district who would like to join them that day is welcome. 

Peoria First is holding a Can-a-Thon in March to benefit the Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church Food Pantry. It has also started an “adoption program” for projects needing funds at the Henderson Settlement, part of its ongoing “Mountain Mission” outreach in Kentucky. 

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: iwdde@outlook.com.

CHANGING MINDSETS FOR MINISTRY REPORT

Seven districts in the Midwest and Plains regions—including Illinois/Wisconsin—partnered to hold an online workshop titled “Changing Mindsets for Ministry” on Feb. 22, with about 80 people participating. The event featured Jeff MacDonald, a journalist and pastor from the Boston area, as keynote speaker. MacDonald is author of the book Part-Time Is Plenty, which examines positive aspects of the increasing trend of part-time pastors in congregations—something he said is now “becoming the norm." 

MacDonald examined some of these statistics and led the group in re-imagining how churches “should” look and how ministry can happen in a variety of models. He emphasized the need for empowering laity, partnering with colleagues and community, and engaging with the church's neighborhood along with more flexible roles in the traditional church structure and right-sizing church buildings. Some of the congregations represented have already moved to shared ministry teams or other models that more heavily involve lay leadership, while others are looking at those possibilities due to decreasing budgets and other new realities. 

“When we shift our expectations, what felt limiting can become liberating,” MacDonald said. 

The Church of the Brethren Ministry Office will be offering an equipping session related to this theme at Annual Conference in Greensboro, N.C., this summer. Titled “Many Hands Make Weighty Work Light: A Shared Ministry Model,” it will be offered on Thursday, July 3, at 8:30 p.m. Leadership will include shared ministry team leaders from Springfield (Ill.) First, (Illinois/Wisconsin District); Spruce Run in Lindside, W.Va. (Virlina), and the New Carlisle and Pleasant Hill congregations (Southern Ohio/Kentucky). Other opportunities to continue the conversation will also be sought going forward.

POTLUCK EXPERIENCE 2025

Want a nourishing feast for the body, mind, and soul? Then plan to come to the 2025 Illinois/Wisconsin District Potluck Experience, Saturday, March 29 at Peoria First Church of the Brethren! Using the 2025 district theme, “Are You Being Called?”, it will include morning worship, a keynote panel, and a variety of workshops, along with the delicious namesake potluck meal. 

The event will begin with worship at 9:30 a.m. (with registration and a continental breakfast beginning at 8:30) and wrap up with a closing circle around 3:30 p.m. There's no cost for the event, but everyone is asked to register to help with planning for the day. Please register at https://iwdpotluck.rsvpify.com. You'll receive a confirmation after registering. 

The panel will feature several district members who have been called to serve in a variety of contexts. Workshop topics will include shared ministry team models in congregations, engaging people with disabilities, camps’ role in calling, and the story of Peoria’s Mountain Mission project. A full schedule for the day and workshop details were sent out via the district email list and are also available on the district website, www.iwdcob.org. 

Please bring a dish or two to share for the meal. Place settings and beverages will be provided. Clothing and small household items (kitchen tools, towels, etc.) for Peoria’s Mountain Mission project will also be collected as a service offering. Please bring all those donations in small, white kitchen-sized trash bags (or smaller). No large items can be accepted, and please do not bring textbooks/encyclopedias, hymnals, TVs, tires, or non-working electronic items. 

Potluck Experience team members this year are Leonard Matheny, Pat Ball, Christy Waltersdorff, and Pam Boughton.

DISTRICT CLERGY GATHERING 2025

The 2025 Illinois/Wisconsin District clergy gathering and CEU event will take place May 1-2 at Bishop Lane Retreat Center near Rockford (7708 E. McGregor Rd.). The event, planned by the district Ministry Leadership Development Team (MLDT), will begin at 4 p.m. on Thursday, May 1 (with registration and check-in available beginning at 3 p.m.) and will conclude by 4 p.m. on Friday. A registration link will be available in late March. 

The event is open to all those in the district who are licensed or ordained or are currently in a ministry discernment program. Our leader this year will be Stan Dueck, director of organizational leadership for the Church of the Brethren, on the theme "Ministry in a BANI* World" (*Brittle, Anxious, Non-Linear, and Incomprehensible). Stan has spent significant time researching the changing landscape of the church and ministry and will be leading some fascinating exploration and conversations. Pastors, chaplains, denominational staff, retired ministers, or those serving in another role should all find it helpful and engaging. 

Thanks to a subsidy from MLDT, the per-person registration cost is just $75, which includes a private room with bathroom (or shared room for those who would like to share a double with someone), three meals, and all program fees. Participants will receive 0.5 CEU's. (If money is an issue, please contact district executive Walt Wiltschek directly and confidentially at iwdde@outlook.com to discuss options.) In addition to the sessions and meals, the schedule will include time for worship and some "down time" to enjoy the beautiful grounds, play games, or have some R&R. Anyone who would like to come early to stay Wednesday night at Bishop Lane for a longer retreat time should contact the center directly at 815-965-5011 to inquire about possibilities.

DISTRICT CONFERENCE 2025

The 2025 Illinois/Wisconsin District conference will take place Nov. 7-8 at The Chateau Hotel & Conference Center in Bloomington, Ill. Bill Williams (Yellow Creek) will serve as moderator, with the theme “Are You Being Called?” Jocelyn Watkins (Peoria First) serves as moderator-elect. 

A continuing education event will be offered for clergy and others during the day on Friday, Nov. 7, with the main conference starting with worship Friday evening and continuing with business and equipping sessions on Saturday, along with meals, exhibits, and other events. 

All congregations are encouraged to send their allotted delegates to the conference. Per the 2022 constitution revisions, each congregation of 100 or fewer members can send three delegates, with one additional delegate for every 100 members or portion thereof. The pastor (if any) and board/leadership team chair typically serve as delegates, along with at-large members called by the congregation. The district Program & Arrangements Committee recently voted to increase the district conference assessment to cover costs; it will now be $30 per allotted delegate. Non-delegate registration will also increase slightly, to $15 per person. 

More details will be coming in the months ahead, with registration opening in late summer or early fall. We hope that you and other members of your congregation will join us for this important time in the life of our district!

CAMP NEWS

Registration for the Camp Emmaus 2025 summer season is open at campemmaus.churchcenter.com/registrations. A discounted price is available for those who register before June 1. 

The camping season will kick off with the Spring Into Camp event on Saturday, April 26. The annual Camp Clean-Up Day will be May 31. The summer schedule will include the following offerings: 

May 23-26 Memorial Day Family Camp 

June 20-22 CIT Training

June 21-22 Elementary (K-Grade 2)

July 6-12 Survivor Camp at Camp Mack (Grades 6-8)

July 13-19 Senior High (Grades 9-12)

July 20-26 Middle School (Grades 6-8)

July 27-31 Intermediate (Grades 3-5)

Aug. 1-3 Young Adult/Young at Heart (Ages 18+)

Aug. 3-6 Target Sports Camp

Aug. 7-9 Women’s Camp

Aug. 22-24 Men’s Camp

Aug. 29-Sept. 1 Labor Day Family Camp 

Camp Emmaus manager Randall Westfall is also leading several local outdoor education sessions at the camp this month in cooperation with the Oregon Park District, and a fire-building “Escape to Emmaus” day is taking place March 8. For more information about the camp, visit www.campemmaus.org. 

Camp Emmanuel is currently closed for the winter season. Visit www.campem.com for Camp Emmanuel news. Details on this summer’s program will be available soon, with the following schedule: 

May 30-June 1 Women’s Camp

June 5-8 High School Camp

June 8-14 Middle School Camp

June 15-19 Junior Camp

July 14-18 Day Camp

July 18-20 Creation Camp

Aug. 8-10 Men’s Camp

Aug. 29-Sept. 1 Family Camp 

Both camps are currently seeking lifeguards for the summer season. Contact the respective camps for more information on these paid positions.

YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS

Christian Citizenship Seminar is planned for April 5-9, giving high school students a chance to explore the theme “Faith for Change,” culminating in legislative visits on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. Find out more at www.brethren.org/yya/ccs.

National Youth Sunday on May 4 will be an opportunity for congregations to empower senior high youth to plan and lead worship. Resources will be posted at www.brethren.org/yya/national-youth-sunday.

Young Adult Conference is planned for May 23-25, at Brethren Woods near Keezletown, Va. The annual event offers people ages 18-35 a chance to enjoy fellowship, worship, recreation, Bible study, service projects, and more. See www.brethren.org/yya/yac.

National Junior High Conference takes place June 20-22 at Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa. Join other junior high youth and adult advisors for a weekend packed with powerful worship, fun workshops, music, recreation, and more. Registration opened Jan. 10. Registration and details are at www.brethren.org/yya/njhc.

National Youth Conference 2026 will take place July 18-23, 2026, with a return to the site that the conference used in 1990 and prior years: the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colo. More information will come in the months ahead at National Youth Conference.

MennoMedia has announced a “Living Forward: Anabaptism at 500 Essay Contest” offering eligible students the opportunity to earn a scholarship for the 2025-2026 academic year. This contest invites students to reflect on the enduring values of the Anabaptist tradition—which includes the Church of the Brethren—and their relevance in today’s world. The overall winner will receive a $1,000 scholarship, and the first runner-up will be awarded a $500 scholarship. Scholarships may be used toward tuition, book costs, and related course fees. Participants should write a 750 to 1,000-word essay responding to the prompt: “Timeless Values in a Changing World.” Writers will identify the distinctive values of the Anabaptist tradition and discuss how these values are shaping the future of the church and influencing broader society in the decades to come. Applicants must be current high school seniors, current college students, or students returning to college after a break from academics and enrolled full-time (at least 12 credit hours per semester) during the 2025-2026 academic year at an accredited two-year or four-year undergraduate or trade school program in the United States or Canada. Submit application and all required documentation postmarked or emailed by April 19. Find out more at www.mennomedia.org/living-forward-essay-contest.

FAITHX 2025

Registration for Church of the Brethren FaithX short-term service trips is open at www.brethren.org/faithx. The 2025 theme is “Living with Purpose.” The trips challenge participants to become more aware of themselves, their communities, and their world by serving alongside others following Christ’s example.

This coming year, FaithX participants will have the opportunity to serve in a variety of ministry and non-profit settings, live and worship in community, explore a new place, examine their values and beliefs, and have too much fun! A summary of the 2025 trip locations, with descriptions and pricing information, is at www.brethren.org/faithx/schedule.

The summer offerings include two junior high trips, four joint junior high/senior high trips, two senior high trips, one family experience July 25-27 at Camp Mardela in Maryland, and two adult trips (including an international venture to Uganda). A few of the summer trips have already filled, so check out the remaining openings and register soon if interested.

DISASTER RESPONSE

Children’s Disaster Services (CDS) is preparing to hold three new volunteer training events this spring: March 28-29 at Creekside Church of the Brethren, Elkhart, Ind., Friday at 4:30 p.m. through Saturday at 5:30 p.m.; April 5-6 at La Verne (Calif.) Church of the Brethren, Saturday at 8:30 a.m. through Sunday at 9:30 a.m.; and May 2-3 at McPherson (Kan.) Church of the Brethren, Friday at 4:30 p.m. through Saturday at 5:30 p.m. Trainings are open to those who are 18 years or older, have a heart for children, and may be interested in becoming CDS volunteers. For currently certified CDS volunteers: If it has been more than five years since you have been out on a disaster response or taken a training, CDS suggests attending a volunteer training as a refresher to review policies, procedures, and updates regarding disaster responses. To register in a scheduled training, go to www.brethren.org/cds/training/dates.html.

Brethren Disaster Ministries is continuing work this year at a rebuilding site in Letcher County, Ky. Information is at: www.brethren.org/bdm/rebuild/schedules. Illinois/Wisconsin is scheduled to assist with a team Dec. 7-13. A YouTube video about the Letcher County site is at https://youtu.be/gmKy5PDf4PE. A second project site is expected to open later this year.

NEW & RENEW 2025

Are you seeking a spiritually enriching and creative space to worship, learn, network, and grow? With everything happening in the world and the church, would it be beneficial for you to connect with other Jesus followers who are exploring and implementing fresh expressions of mission, church planting, and congregational revitalization? If so, you are invited to join the New & Renew Conference May 14-16 at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Illinois. Registration opened on Feb. 10.

The conference theme, "God is Doing a New Thing," is inspired by Isaiah 43:19. The keynote presenter is Jonathan Brooks, affectionately known as Pastor J. He serves as the lead pastor at Lawndale Christian Community Church. He is the Chief Inspiration Officer for Lawndale Christian Ministries. Pastor J is a sought-after speaker, writer, artist, organizer, and community developer. Additionally, he authored the book Church Forsaken: Practicing Presence in Neglected Neighborhoods.

The conference will be available in a hybrid format, allowing participants to attend in-person or online. More than 20 CEU-approved sessions will deepen understanding of church planting, congregational renewal, and current cultural trends. In addition to workshops, inspirational worship, and keynote sessions, the storytelling and sharing opportunities will be part of the event. For those who can’t attend in person, registration will grant access to recorded keynotes and workshops, allowing participants to earn up to 2.6 CEUs until Dec. 31. For more information and to register, visit www.brethren.org/newandrenew.

NATIONAL OLDER ADULT CONFERENCE

The next National Older Adult Conference (NOAC) will be held Sept. 1-5, at Lake Junaluska, N.C., with the theme “Alive in the Spirit!” Registration will open May 1 at www.brethren.org/noac. Past attendees will receive an email with the registration link via email that day. Those needing special accommodations due to health/mobility issues will be able to register April 21-28.

Registration fees will be $220 for early-bird registration (May 1 to July 20), or $250 for regular registration. First-time attendees receive a $20 discount. A virtual participation registration option will be available for $150 per household.

The planning team includes Heidi Berkenbosch, Deanna Brown, Bonnie Kline Smeltzer, Leonard Matheny (Peoria First), Don Mitchell, Karlene Tyler, and coordinator Christy Waltersdorff (York Center). Debbie Noffsinger (Highland Avenue) designed the NOAC 2025 logo. Registration information and other details will be coming out soon.

ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2025

We're pleased to share that Annual Conference moderator Dava Hensley will join us virtually for an Annual Conference briefing on Zoom on Saturday, June 14, at 10 a.m. This is especially designed for delegates to get a preview of business and other notable events at this summer's Conference (July 2-6 in Greensboro, N.C.), but anyone is welcome (and encouraged) to attend. It will last no more than an hour. A Zoom link and additional information will be sent at a later date; for now, mark your calendars and plan to join us for an informative morning! (As noted above, Dava will also be visiting the Freeport church and preaching on May 11!)

The 2025 Church of the Brethren Annual Conference will take place Wednesday, July 2, to Sunday, July 6, at the Koury Convention Center in Greensboro, North Carolina. Registration and hotel reservations opened to the public on March 5 at www.brethren.org/ac2025. The Annual Conference office has announced the following registration fee schedule:

For advance registration (March 5-June 10): Delegates $350; Non-delegate adult, full conference, $175; Non-delegate adult, daily rate, $60; Post-high school to age 21, full conference, $50; Post-high school to age 21, daily rate, $20; Current high school student or younger, free; Active BVSer, free.

For on-site registration (opens July 1): Delegates $425; Non-delegate adult, full conference, $210; Non-delegate adult, daily rate, $75; Post-high school to age 21, full conference, $50; Post-high school to age 21, daily rate, $20; Current high school student or younger, free; Active BVSer, free. Note there is an additional fee for age-group activities.

Registration for virtual participation (non-delegate only): Adult (until June 10), full conference, $195 or daily rate, $75. Group/institutional registration, $500; Post-high school to age 21, full conference, $75. Worship services are available free of charge.

Please consider sending a delegate from your congregation. Congregations of up to 200 members receive one delegate, with one additional delegate for every additional 200 members or portion thereof. Delegate and non-delegate registration can be found at www.brethren.org/ac2025 (click “Registration”). A guide to registering online is available if needed.

Lodging: the Sheraton Greensboro at Four Seasons is connected to the Koury Convention Center, making it extremely convenient for guests. The Annual Conference room rate is $120 plus tax (12.75%) totaling $135.30 per night. Parking is complimentary. The Sheraton Hotel provides complimentary shuttle transportation to and from Piedmont Triad International Airport from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. In room Wi-Fi is complimentary for all hotel guests. The link for hotel registration will come up immediately after registering for the conference.

New this year will be a conference welcome meal, beginning 5 p.m. July 2 at the hotel’s Joseph’s Restaurant. The dinner buffet will be $19.95 for adults, $14.95 for 12 and under. No reservations are required, and attendees will pay onsite.

Ushers needed: From usher coordinator David Ansley: “During worship we need volunteer ushers to help receive offerings and record attendance. While an important role in our worship services, ushering requires very little time and does not take away from participating in the rest of the worship service. You will be able to sign up when registering for Annual Conference and at the usher table when you arrive and check in for the conference, however I would like to have our first service covered on Wednesday night, before the conference begins. Once you have registered for conference, please follow the links to sign up to volunteer as an usher. You can also reach out to me directly at davidansley704@gmail.com and let me know if you are willing to serve on Wednesday evening, or for any of the other worship services. Please use ‘AC usher’ in the subject line. Feel free to contact me via text or call at 540-314-8146.”

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

• Registration is available for the remaining dates in the Ventures in Christian Discipleship 2024-2025 Zoom webinar series. CEUs are available. Note that the March 11 webinar has recently changed. Upcoming courses include:

• March 11: “Acknowledging Grief, Claiming Hope: Reflections from around the Church of the Brethren,” presented by Annual Conference moderator Dava Hensley, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Central (Dava is also leading some other grief workshops for the denomination through the spring)
• April 5: “A Place for Everybody: Creating Communities of Belonging,” presented by Jeanne Davies (York Center), executive director of Anabaptist Disabilities Network, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Central

Suggested donation is $25 per course; CEU credit is available for $10. Learn more and register online at www.mcpherson.edu/ventures.

• Upcoming courses from the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership include “God Is Doing a New Thing,” a directed independent study done in conjunction with the New & Renew Conference, May 14-16, led by Stan Dueck (registration deadline April 9); “A Place for Everybody,” a directed independent study done in conjunction with the Ministers’ Association pre-Annual Conference event, July 1-2, led by Audrey Hollenberg-Duffey (registration deadline May 20); “Leadership and Administration for the Now and Future Church,” online Aug. 13-Oct. 7, led by Audrey Hollenberg-Duffey (registration deadline July 9); and “Minister as Theologian,” online Sept. 3-Oct. 28, led by Joelle Hathaway (registration deadline July 23). Register and pay online at Brethren Academy Course Registration/Biannual TRIM Payment | Bethany Theological Seminary (bethanyseminary.edu).

• Upcoming Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center (SVMC) continuing education courses include “Supporting Congregational Members Following Divorce,” led by Julie Guistwite, June 3, 8:30-11:30 a.m. Central, via Zoom, cost $35. Course prices are $10 less without CEU’s. Register by visiting the SVMC course page or by contacting Karen Hodges at karenhodges@svmccob.org.

• Lombard Mennonite Peace Center offers a variety of training sessions. Upcoming options include “Peaceful, Productive Pastor-Parish Partnerships,” March 15 in person in La Grange, Ill., or June 4 or Aug. 20 via Zoom; “Strengthening the Body of Christ,” March 25 in Middleton, Wisc., or May 8 or Sept. 16 via Zoom; “Restorative Conversations,” Sept. 17 via Zoom; and “Conflict Transformation Skills,” July 23 and Sept. 11 via Zoom. For details and registration information, go to https://www.lmpeacecenter.org/trainings.

• 2025 New Community Project Learning Tours: Go. Meet. Learn. Grow. Change yourself—and your world. These trips will take participants of all ages to: Borneo in mid-May; the Ecuadorian Amazon in early June; Lybrook, N.M. in late June; and Denali/Kenai Fjords National Parks in early August. For more information visit www.newcommunityproject.info/learning-tours or contact dradcliffncp@yahoo.com or 540-855-1199.

• Designed particularly for ministers new to the Church of the Brethren denomination, Bethany Theological Seminary’s new certificate of achievement in ministry studies (CAMS) includes six courses that focus on Brethren history and theology, practical experience with the ordinances and preaching of the church, biblical interpretation, and peace studies. The certificate can be completed in two years or even one year, depending on course offerings. Five of the six courses can be completed at a distance. For more information go to https://bethanyseminary.edu.

PERSONNEL NOTES

Audrey Hollenberg-Duffey, currently coordinator for English-language training programs at the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership, has accepted a new position as director of the Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center (SVMC) based in Elizabethtown, Pa. She will conclude her time in her current position on March 21. A search process is under way for her replacement. She will continue to teach several scheduled Academy courses this spring and summer.

Tim Button-Harrison has announced his retirement as district executive minister of the Church of the Brethren’s Northern Plains District effective Dec. 31, 2025, after having served the district for more than 19 years. Button-Harrison has served multiple roles in the Council of District Executives including vice chair, secretary, district executive representative on the Pastoral Compensation and Benefits Advisory Committee and the On Earth Peace board. Previously he served Northern Plains as Training in Ministry coordinator, district moderator, and Standing Committee representative for two terms. His spouse, Mary Jane, also retires at the end of this year after serving for 20 years as senior pastor of Ames First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), and he will also conclude his part-time work with that congregation where he has served as minister of Worship and Discipleship since 2011.

JOB OPENINGS

The Church of the Brethren is seeking an individual to fill a full-time salaried position of director of sales for Brethren Press. The director of sales develops and implements sales plans for Brethren Press and is responsible for the functions of customer service, shipping, and management of the inventory and warehouse. Skills and knowledge required include ability to work with sales and inventory management systems and other computer programs used within Brethren Press, experience supervising people and systems, strong interpersonal skills and experience working well within a team, knowledge of the Church of the Brethren or ability to learn, and ability to articulate and operate out of the vision and values of the Church of the Brethren. Applicants should have experience in sales, especially within the business of publishing and within a church setting. Bachelor’s degree preferred. Knowledge of the Church of the Brethren preferred. This position is based at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill. Applications will be received beginning immediately and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the position is filled. Qualified candidates are invited to send a resume’ to COBApply@brethren.org.

The Church of the Brethren is seeking an individual to fill a full-time salaried position of director of Brethren Historical Library and Archives. Skills and knowledge required include familiarity with Church of the Brethren heritage, theology, and polity; ability to articulate and operate out of the vision of the Church of the Brethren; familiarity with library and archival disciplines; customer-service skills; research and problem-solving skills; and proficiency in Microsoft software and experience with OCLC products. Candidates should have at least 3-5 years of experience in a library or archives along with a master’s degree in library science/ archival studies or a public history related program, and extensive knowledge of Church of the Brethren history and beliefs. Graduate degree in history or theology and/or certification by the Academy of Certified Archivists preferred. This position is based at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill. Applications will be received beginning immediately and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the position is filled. Qualified candidates are invited to send a resume to COBApply@brethren.org.

Eder Financial is seeking a retirement planner to provide financial education and appropriate resources to members in the Retirement Plan and Insurance Plans, aiding them in their goals to get them to and through retirement. This position requires an individual who can appropriately solve spoken and unspoken needs of external and internal customers. While some tasks and meetings require an onsite presence, most of the work is done remotely. This is a full-time, exempt position. The ideal candidate will have an undergraduate degree and a strong working knowledge of financial planning/investments. Additional designations are required or must be obtained during the initial months of employment (i.e. CRPC or CFP). Working knowledge of CRM software is a plus. To apply, submit a cover letter, resume’, and three professional references to Tammy Chudy at tchudy@eder.org.

The Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership (BAML) seeks a coordinator of English-Language Ministry Training Programs to coordinate current and future English-Language ministry training and development programs for the Church of the Brethren. This is a half-time, salaried position. Duties and tasks include working with students, district coordinators, and supervising pastors to provide guidance in all areas of TRIM and EFSM; organizing details for onsite and online courses; discussing TRIM and EFSM programs with prospective students; reporting students’ progress to district leadership; coordinating orientation for TRIM and EFSM; among others. Skills and knowledge required include grounding in Church of the Brethren heritage, theology, and polity; strong interpersonal skills and communication skills; skills in developing educational experiences in ministry training; ability to work with people from a variety of backgrounds who have varied understandings of the church; among others. Experience required includes five years of effective leadership in pastoral ministry and ordination and active membership in the Church of the Brethren. Education required includes a Master of Divinity degree (preferred), successful completion of a ministry training program (required), and a record of regular continuing education experiences. Relocation is not required. Home location is negotiable, but candidates must be willing to travel as needed. The Brethren Academy offices are located at Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Ind. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt and will be accepted until the position is filled. Apply by sending a resume’, letter of interest, and contact information for three references by email to BAML director Janet L. Ober Lambert at academysearch@bethanyseminary.edu.

The Middle Pennsylvania District of the Church of the Brethren seeks candidates to fill the roles of a three-member District Executive Team: one half-time district executive minister position and two quarter-time positions. Applications for any of the positions are welcome currently. Members of the team may work remotely or on location at the Middle PA District office located in Huntingdon, Pa. Compensation for the team will be negotiated. Travel is required both within and outside of the district. Responsibilities include pastoral/congregational transitions, pastoral support, leadership development with respect to calling and credentialing of ministers, consultations with congregations and throughout the district structure, and management and administration of district staff and oversight of district finances. Applicants should be ordained through accredited program, minimum of Brethren Academy ACTS level training program; master of divinity preferred for half-time position. Other qualifications include personal skills in organization, administration, and communication; committed to the Church of the Brethren locally and denominationally and willing to work ecumenically; demonstrated leadership skills; and pastoral experience. Interested and qualified persons may apply by sending a letter of interest and resume’ to Nancy Sollenberger Heishman, director of the Ministry Office, at officeofministry@brethren.org. Applicants are requested to contact three persons who are willing to provide a letter of reference. Upon receipt of the resume’, the individual will be sent a candidate profile that must be completed and returned before the application is considered complete. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

DENOMINATIONAL NEWS/NEWSLINE

The Nominating Committee of the Standing Committee of district delegates to the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference has presenting the ballot for the 2025 Conference taking place in Greensboro, N.C., on July 2-6, headed by Dennis Beckner (Columbia City, Ind.) and Glenn Bollinger (Port Republic, Va.) as candidates for moderator-elect. Chris Douglas (Highland Avenue) is on the ballot for the Review and Evaluation Committee. A full listing of candidates and complete biographical information is online at www.brethren.org/ac2025/business/ballot and will be printed in the Conference booklet. 

More than 70 clergywomen from 16 districts (including about half a dozen from Illinois/ Wisconsin) attended the denominational clergywomen’s retreat traditionally offered every five years by the Ministry Office of the Church of the Brethren. The retreat was held Feb. 10-13 at the San Pedro Spiritual Development Center in Winter Park, Fla. Presentations were offered each morning by Meghan Larissa Good, lead pastor of Trinity Mennonite Church in Phoenix, Ariz., and author of Divine Gravity: Sparking a Movement to Recover a Better Christian Story.

New resources from Brethren Press, the Church of the Brethren publishing house, include the 2025 Lenten devotional titled Take Up Your Cross, written by Tim Harvey; two new Covenant Bible Studies including God’s Earth Our Home, written by David Radcliff, and Sabbath: God’s Call to Peace, written by Angela Finet; and the 2024 edition of the Church of the Brethren Yearbook, offering the latest denominational directory and statistics. Order these and other resources from Brethren Press at www.brethrenpress.com.

Brethren Volunteer Service will be hosting a Zoom information session about BVS on April 15 at 7 p.m. Central. Anyone is welcome to stop by and hear more about BVS from the staff. Register in advance at https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/nZT3YV66T2ibvOlRAhtZrQ. BVS orientation dates for 2025 have been set and applications are open. The application form can be found at www.brethren.org/bvs/volunteer/apply. Orientation dates will be July 27-Aug. 4, summer orientation (Unit 337), at Camp Colorado in Sedalia, Colo. Sept. 10-18, fall orientation (Unit 338), at Camp Mardela in Denton, Md.

Registration for Song and Story Fest 2025 at Camp Brethren Woods in Keezletown, Va., July 6-12, is now available, using this online form. More details about Song and Story Fest can be found here. Online registration and payment are again being offered to help streamline the process. Pay online (additional 3% fee) or send a check to On Earth Peace, after submitting your registration online. Using the online registration form is preferred, but the form can also be printed and mailed if needed. 

“Early Anabaptism in Global Perspective: Past, Present, and Future at 500 Years” is the topic for a conference at the Young Center at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College on July 22-24. This conference marking the 500th anniversary of the birth of the Anabaptist movement will revisit early Anabaptism and give special attention to the global context in which it emerged and spread. Speakers will also consider how Anabaptist history has been received by churches and academics in more recent times and in varying contexts around the world. With more than three dozen plenary sessions, papers, seminars, and roundtables by presenters from ten countries, the conference will examine such varied themes as migration, diplomacy, the arts, colonialism, peacemaking, and theological identity. Optional pre- and post-conference field trips will visit area libraries and archives and the 1719 Museum. Find out more and register at www.etown.edu/centers/young-center/anabaptism-conference-2025.aspx.

GRANTS AND GIVING

Grants available through the district include the following:

1. Mission and Mortar: Sustaining and developing ministry (mission) within congregations, as well as maintaining property (mortar), is sometimes hindered because of inadequate financial resources. The Illinois/Wisconsin District, whose mission is to support the growth and development of member congregations, desires to financially support congregations that are in good standing with the district and have specific needs. More information can be found here.
   
   
2. Being Jesus in the Neighborhood: Congregations can apply for $100 in 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. More information can be found here.
   
   
3. Emerging Missions Fund: To facilitate the growth and establishment of new faith communities, this grant is available for church and ministry planting initiatives. New church and ministry plants are encouraged to apply by contacting the district office and/or the CRDT.
   

Supporting Your District

The Illinois/Wisconsin District is active in a variety of ministry and mission efforts, both directly and indirectly. Continuing these efforts requires resources in the form of time, tools, knowledge, and especially finances.

Consider making a contribution to the district’s general fund or one of its special funds (disaster relief, youth, emerging ministries, etc.). Look for the donate button at iwdcob.org, or send your checks to the district office: 1S071 Luther Ave., Lombard, IL 60148.