Illinois & Wisconsin District

The Reflector -- December 2011 -- Vol 8 Issue 10

2011-12-01T23:30:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas

2011-12-01T13:21:00.000-06:00

Thoughts from the DE - Kevin Kessler

2011-12-01T13:17:00.000-06:00

Each year I like togo back throughthe list of booksI’ve read andchoose 5 that Iliked the best,then write a briefreview of each toshare with others.So, here are mypicks for 2011. Iwill also list honorable mentions that could easilyhave made this list as well.

1. The Harry Potter Series by J. K. Rowling(Scholastic) – Many who are reading this reviewhave likely read these books (7 in the series), but ifyou haven’t, I would recommend a jaunt throughthem. The classic good versus evil concept is clearlyevident throughout the series. Rowling also delvesinto the dynamics of relationships, conflict, andcause and effect. Although I doubt Rowling waswriting with Christianity in mind, the story includessubtle frameworks of Christian understanding. A lotof pages, but an easy read.

2. Take This Bread by Sara Miles (Ballantine, 2007) –Miles opens up to share the journey of her life—fromher days of being a traveling journalist, to working inrestaurants, to finding faith, to quickly making faithan active verb. Although her approach to faithsometimes seems irreverent, she leaves no questionthat it is real to her. Readers of this book will beintrigued how Miles juxtaposes the Eucharist withjust generally eating together. She makes connectionsthat cause both to be viewed in deeper, morereverent ways. A refreshing, stirring read.

3. Leaving Church: A Memoir by Barbara BrownTaylor ((Harper, 2007) – This is the first of Taylor’sbooks I’ve read and was immediately drawn in byher folksy, down-to-earth style of writing. LeavingChurch is Taylor’s personal journey of falling in lovewith a little country church, being called to serve asthe pastor, relating stories about the joys anddifficulties of ministry there, and her subsequent callto leave the church for a teaching position. The littlecountry church held a warm and dear spot in herheart even after leaving. A touching read.

4. Drive: The Surprising Truth About WhatMotivates Us by Daniel H. Pink (Riverhead, 2009) –I was fascinated by this book. Rewards andpunishment are not the greatest factors formotivation. Intrinsic desire and passion are greatermotivators. Pink explores ways to focus on intrinsicmotivators as the means to help people reach theirpotential. He includes stories from fascinating read.

5. Love Wins: A Book About Heaven, Hell, and theFate of Every Person Who Ever Lived by Rob Bell(Harper, 2011) – Bell explores the possibilities ofevery person’s fate under the microscope of God’sgrace and redeeming love. While Bell may challengeorthodox views, his provocative thoughts point inthe direction of a loving God, whose love is greaterthan any of our understandings of salvation. Aprovocative read.

Following are the honorable mentions:

a. Becoming an Anti-racist Church: JourneyingToward Wholeness by Joseph Barndt (Fortress, 2011)

b. The Naked Anabaptist: The Bare Essentials of aRadical Faith by Stuart Murray (Herald Press, 2010)

c. Isaac’s Storm: A Man, a Time, and the DeadliestHurricane in History by Erik Larson (Vintage, 2000)

d. Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival,Resilience, and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand(Random House, 2010)

e. Fly in the Ointment: Why Denominations Aren'tHelping Their Congregations and How They Canby J. Russell Crabtree (Church Publishing, 2008)

Oak Grove Church adds Fellowship Hall

2011-12-01T13:13:00.000-06:00

The Oak Grove Church of the Brethren located inrural Low Point, Illinois has realized a dream afterseveral years of planning and prayer. This fall theyadded a fellowship hall to replace the meeting roomand kitchen in their small basement. The men andwomen of the church are now engaged in finishingthe interior of the building. There will be a formaldedication sometime in early spring. Congratulationsto Pastor Buegel and the congregation for taking thisstep in faith to serve His kingdom.

World Interfaith Harmony Week - February 1-7, 2012

2011-12-01T13:11:00.000-06:00

On October 20, 2010, the General Assembly of theUnited Nations unanimously adopted a resolutiondesignating the first week in February to be an annualWorld Interfaith Harmony Week. The U.N. GeneralAssembly called for dialogue among the differentreligions internationally, nationally, and locally to enhanceinterfaith harmony and cooperation.

In this historic action the U.N. General Assemblyrecognized the possibility and necessity for thebelievers in the major world religions to facilitatepeace building and to engage in the global moralissues of poverty, hunger, health care, environmentaldestruction, and other world challenges. Clergy andcongregations are asked to focus during this week on(1) learning about the faith and beliefs of followers ofother religious traditions, (2) remembering in prayersand messages about interfaith cooperation, and (3)sharing together in cooperative compassionate carefor persons suffering and marginalized in our localcommunities.

Brethren representative on the Interfaith RelationsCommission of the National Council of Churches,Larry Ulrich commented, “Increasingly Americandiversity has persons of other faith traditions livingwith us as neighbors. In the cacophony of misunderstandingand mistrust, harmony is a recognition ofthe moral impact of learning about each other’s faith,religious beliefs and practices, and the increasedpossibilities of helping local people in need throughcooperative service. The World Interfaith HarmonyWeek is an opportunity to expand compassionlocally by reducing our fears and prejudices.”For further information and resources:www.worldinterfaithharmonyweek.com

Submitted by: Larry Ulrich
lnulrich@comcast.net
630.620.4044

Memorial Gifts build new Building

2011-12-01T13:09:00.000-06:00

Memorial giftsfrom the estatesof DorothyHarshbargerand Cora Snokeprovided thefunds for thePeoria Churchof the Brethrento construct a maintenance garage, storage for Mt.Mission and a picnic pavilion. Both of these ladieswere charter members of the Peoria Church.

The men of the Church are finishing the inside of thebuilding which should be completed early next year.A dedication will be held at the Church nest spring.

Words from 2011 Moderator, Pastor Lisa Fike

2011-12-01T13:07:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago we concluded our2011 Illinois and Wisconsin DistrictConference.

As I look back over the weekend Iam reminded of a group of Christianpeople who enjoy gathering andsharing as brothers and sisters.

For me, gathering for Love feast was an awesomeexperience. From my vantage point I was able tolook out over the room and witness persons humblingthemselves to participate in feet (or hand) washing,and then to share in a simple meal and in the breadand cup, this touched my heart. To participate in theexperience, for me, was the reason for us to gather atLake Williamson for our 2011 District Conference.

It has been a joy to serve the district as yourmoderator for 2011. Now I can return to giving theFreeport Congregation most of my attention. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all ofyou for your warm wishes and invitations to serve ina variety of ways over the last year. As moderator Ihave had the opportunity to visit several churchesand bring the message. I was invited to participatein the Rockford First Church gifting service, pooldedication at Camp Emmaus, and pastoral installationat Cherry Grove Church of the Brethren. I alsowant to thank the members of Freeport Church of theBrethren who have so willingly shared me with thedistrict. Lastly; I want to thank my daughters, Caroland Bethany, for their support, especially Bethanywho has had to put up with an extra busy schedule,messy house and fast food meals.

Blessings to new Moderator Fletcher Farrar andModerator-Elect Mark Flory Steury as you serve ourdistrict. I am looking forward to the next time wemeet to share in fellowship with my sisters andbrothers around the district.

Peoria Church and Mt. Mission

2011-12-01T13:06:00.000-06:00

The Peoria Church of the Brethren embarked ontheir annual trip to Eastern Kentucky with trucksand trailers loaded with clothing, household items,furniture, tools and other necessities useful to theresidents of the area. The Peoria Church haspartnered with the Mt. Zion Methodist Churchsince the 1980’s in this Mission. This year the PeoriaChurch assumed the responsibility of organizing theevent. Trucks caravan over a four day perioddelivering the goods to Henderson Settlement, RedBird Mission and Mt. Mission in the Appalachianarea of Eastern Kentucky. We would like to extendan invitation to other Brethren Churches to join thePeoria Church for next year’s Mt. Mission project inNovember 2012, usually after District Conference.If you are interested phone 309-683-3980 or emailmail@peoriabrethren.org .

2012 National Young Adult Conference

2011-12-01T13:03:00.000-06:00

Are you between the ages of18 and 35? If so, then you areinvited to the NYAC in Knoxville,TN. This event will be a chance for young adultsto gather and create a loving community, haveengaging conversations about our role in thedenomination and also enjoy various speakers.

NYAC takes place on June 18 – 22, 2012 at theUniversity of Tennessee Knoxville. Our theme is“Humble, yet Bold: Being the Church,” based onMatt. 5: 13 – 18, “Being Salt for the Earth” and “Alight for the world.”

Online registration begins Jan. 6 at 8 PM atwww.brethtren.org/yac. The cost for the eventwill be $375 and includes housing, programmingand meals. The Young Adult Steering Committeeencourages congregations to offer NYA Cscholarships in their 2012 budgets. NYAC giftcertificates may be purchased by friends andfamilies.

DON’T MISS THISOPPORTUNITY to bepart of the communitythat will be createdduring these five days in Knoxville. Join us onFacebook on “Young Adults of the Church of theBrethren.”For more information call 800-323-8039 ext. 281 orE-mail NYAC2012@brethren.org.

District Potluck

2011-12-01T13:01:00.000-06:00

Bethany Seminary invites youth to explore their call

2011-12-01T12:59:00.000-06:00

High school youth are invited to attend ExploringYour Call (EYC) at Bethany Theological Seminary inRichmond, Ind., this summer, June 15-25, 2012. Thisevent provides the opportunity for young peopleentering their junior or senior year of high school infall 2012 to explore faith and vocation throughclasses, congregational involvement, service projects,personal and spiritual enrichment, and recreation.

Russell Haitch, associate professor of Christianeducation and director of the Institute for Youth andYoung Adults at Bethany, oversees EYC. “It’s anintense but beautiful program. Last year, youthstudied theology in the classroom, then shadowedpastors and did real-life ministry, then took a tripto Chicago to live in an intentional community andlearn about all sorts of non-pastoral vocations. Thelevel of conversation and quality of friendship thatdeveloped was really splendid, and I’m excited thatequally good things will happen this year.”

Calendar of District Events

2011-12-01T12:52:00.000-06:00

DECEMBER

21 - Hanukkah
25 - Christmas
26 - Kwanzaa

JANUARY

1 - New Year's Day
14 - Leadership Team Meeting @ Neighborhood
16 - Martin Luther King Jr. Day
25 - Peoria Area Pastor's Meeting
29-Feb 17 - BVS Winter Orientation

FEBRUARY

1–17 - BVS Winter Orientation
20 - President’s Day

MARCH

10–12 - Mission and Ministry Board @ New Windsor

APRIL

6 - Good Friday
7 - First Day of Passover
8 - Easter
23–May 4 - BVS Older Adult Orientation
28 - District Pot Luck @ Peoria CoB

MAY

1-4 BVS Older Adult Orientation
1 - Labor Day
6 - National Youth Sunday
13 - Mother’s Day
17–19 - New Church Dev. Conf. @ Richmond, IN
25–28 - Camp Emmaus Memorial Day Family Camp
28 - Memorial Day

JUNE

10–29 - BVS Summer Orientation
16–22 - National Young Adult Conf. @ Knoxville
17 - Father’s Day

JULY

6–7 - Ministers Assoc. Pre-Conf. @ St. Louis, MO
6–11 - Annual Conference @ St. Louis, MO
7 - Mission & Ministry Board @ St. Louis, MO
13–15 - Camp Emmaus Counselor-in-Training Event
14–15 - Camp Emmaus Elementary I Camp
17–20 - Camp Emmaus Elementary II Camp
22–28 - Camp Emmaus Senior High Camp

AUGUST

20–30 - BVS/BRF Orientation @ New Windsor
July 29–August 4 - Camp Emmaus Junior High Camp
5–10 - Camp Emmaus Elementary III Camp
10–12 - Camp Emmaus Women's Camp

SEPTEMBER

Aug 31–Sept 3 - Camp Emmaus Labor Day Family Camp
3 - Labor Day
September 16–Oct 5 - BVS Fall Orientation
17 - Rosh Hashanah
26 - Yom Kippur

OCTOBER

September 16–Oct 5 - BVS Fall Orientation
20–23 - Mission and Ministry Board @ Elgin, IL

NOVEMBER

4 - National Jr. High Sunday
16–18 - Mission Alive @ Lititz, PA
22 - Thanksgiving Day
25 - First Sunday of Advent

DECEMBER

9 - First Day of Chanukah/Hanukkah
25 - Christmas Day
31 - New Year’s Eve

The Reflector -- November 2011 -- Vol 8 Issue 9

2011-11-01T17:53:00.000-06:00

2011 District Conference – 38 Grapes

2011-11-01T17:42:00.000-06:00

Tables set up for Love Feast, Banners surrounding the room and a cross at the front of the room with a cluster of 38 grapes. Pastor and Moderator, Lisa Fike, had set the tone for the 2011 District conference. 38 Grapes represented the 38 congregations in the Illinois Wisconsin District who had supplied 38 banners ringing the sanctuary.

Moderator Fike emphasized the theme from John 15, “..Joined with me, and I with you…” A continuing question asked of those assembled was, “Do you Love Jesus”? If you Love Jesus everything else becomes unimportant and our differences fade in comparison.

Love feast was a family event with husband and wives, men and women, Lovers of Jesus all sitting around tables prepared with a symbolic meal of fruits, nuts and cheese. Feet washing began with the host of the table kneeling and washing the feet of the person on their left. This was the first time many, if not most, has participated in co-ed Love Feast. The whole evening seemed to evoke the presence of the Holy Spirit.

Saturday morning began the business portion of the 2011 District conference being held at the Lake Williamson Christian Center in Carlinville, IL. Moderator Fike opened the session by passing out “Jelly Beans” and compared out District like a package of Jelly Beans. We are all different flavors but when you “taste” the bean and get to know their flavor, you find we are good people who are Brethren. The official session was opened with prayer.

The first order of business was the pleasing task of accepting a New Fellowship into the District. The Rockford Community Church of the Brethren formally entered the Illinois-Wisconsin District by acclimation and congratulations. The Rockford 1st Church received recognition for their generosity and compassion in gifting their Church building to the New Fellowship.

Next came the general business of commissioning the delegates, approving the minutes of 2010, accepting the agenda (with an addition), affirming the tellers, time keeper and parliamentarian. Carol Kussart from Gifts Discernment and Call presented the ballot which was approved.

The next report was from the District Deacons whose major event will be the District Potluck at the Peoria Church of the Brethren on a date that everyone should remember…. APRIL 28,2012.

DE Kevin Kessler reported for his 5th District Conference as the District Executive. Kevin not only serves as the DE at a “half time” basis but Pastors the Canton Church of the Brethren. He installed 4 Pastors in the District, meets with the Leadership Team, the Visioning Team, The District Ministerial Leadership Development Team, The Illinois Council of Churches, and participates with other Ministry Teams.

The Illinois Conference of Churches, representing 14 denominations, was represented by Executive Director, Laurie Vail. She reported to the conference the ongoing work being done through the Conference of Churches.

The next presentation on Church revitalization came from Pastors Rich Koch and Ginny Haney. The story was told of an elderly couple being mugged in a downtown street and left injured. A priest saw them and crossed the street to avoid getting involved. Minutes later a pastor saw them lying in the street and walked by. Finally an agnostic came along, administered first aid, then took them to the hospital. Who was the neighbor? Would a Brethren have stopped to help? Next Pastors from the District were asked to tell how they are serving the Church. How are we “Being the Church”? Churches told of food pantries, community meals, handing out bottles of water in the community, counseling, Boy Scouts, teen centers, a free clothing store, a mentoring program, giving away back packs to children and giving away flowers.. How can your congregation “Be The Church”?

The District Leadership Team reported to the conference by presenting new Mission and Vision Statements. After some discussion the conference affirmed the new statements. The New Church Development Team meeting was convened to offer an amendment to transfer the directorship of the corporation to the Leadership Team. The existing members of the NCDT have submitted their resignations to facilitate the transfer. The NCDT continues to function as the sponsor of Pastors Samuel and Gretchen Sarpiya. This was approved after clarification to the conference.

The Leadership Team then reconvened to offer Amendments to the Constitution. The Church Revitalization and Development Team became an official, recognized team reporting to the Leadership Team. This team assumes some of the responsibilities of the New Church Development Team.

Other business included the retirement of the Rockford 1st Church of the Brethren and honoring the Rockford Community Fellowship.

Jim Lehman presented the District Budget to the conference going through several items that were changed from the last budget. The budget passed unanimously.

The rest of the business meeting heard from the Retirement Homes, Camps, Shared Ministries (Bethany & BBT), TRIM, Disaster Relief, and the Standing Committee.

Then Rich Koch presided as auctioneer over an energetic live auction of the Quilts that were made by several congregations. The bidding began slowly but ended with a quilt selling for over $500. Between the silent and live auctions the District raised over $3,500. Thanks Rich!!

Sunday Worship opened with hymn singing led by Worship Leader Leaders Shannon Hinkle and Ruthie White. Pastor Hinkle introduced the speaker for the morning, Annual Conference Moderator, Tim Harvey. Pastor Harvey comes to us from the Roanoke City Church of the Brethren. His theme was the Annual Conference theme, “Continuing the Work of Jesus… peacefully, simply, together.” He spoke to the need for Brethren to speak to each other in love and not in confrontation. One of Moderator Harvey’s goals is to seat delegates at round tables in groups of seven, at assign places from different geographical areas, genders, and opinions. It this situation they would need to face each other and discuss their differences instead of standing in line at a microphone presenting one side of an issue.

The rest of the Sunday session included installing the Moderator, Fletcher Farrar, and Moderator-elect, Mark Flory Steury. The new Moderator challenged us to eat healthy concentrating of vegetables and fruits.

The last item was the exchange of Banners to District Churches.

The Lake Williamson Christian Conference site offered all the facilities needed for a successful meeting. Even though there were 4 other groups on site we did not overlap in any way, except meal times. Meeting rooms, equipment, lodging, activities, Worship centers, and a wonderful staff provided the District with a very successful conference.

Many thanks to the Hurricane Creek Congregation for hosting the 2011 Illinois-Wisconsin District Conference.

District Auctions a Major Success!

2011-11-01T17:38:00.000-06:00

If you did not make it to this years District Conference you missed out on several things that are happening in our District. The one I want to tell you about is our Annual Silent Auction and a resurrecting of our Live Auction. I want to thank all of you out who donated items for our Silent Auction. It is you that make this a success! I also want to thank those of you who bid and who had fun doing it! Between these two groups of people we raised $1,424.00 from our Silent Auction. Congrats to you all!

At our Live Auction we had 9 quilts made by District Auctions a Major Success! different Churches in our District. We also had a hand made blanket chest that was cedar lined, made by Paul Schmidt of Polo. I tried my hand at being an auctioneer for the first. The bidding for these ten items was ferocious! Together they brought in $2,180.00 for a grand total of $3,604.00. I believe that all in attendance had a great time. I want to take a moment and thank a few people. First to “The Guys” who helped with the live auction, great job! To Program and Arrangements for the perfect site for the Silent Auction. And lastly to my wife Beckie who worked diligently to help make both Auctions a success.

As we look towards next year, I encourage you to begin thinking now about what you might bring to either the Silent Auction or live one. We would like to have another live auction, but we need once again several “Big Ticket” items. We need more Quilts or Wall Hangings and yes once again a few nice handmade furniture pieces. And for the Silent Auction food always sells. We could use a whole bunch of pies, cakes or cookies. A jar of apple butter went for $20.00 and I paid $30.00 for a fantastic peach pie, thank to Pam Boughton!

One last time thank you to you and see you next year!

Pastor Rick Koch – Dutchtown Church

Powerhouse Regional Youth Conference

2011-11-01T17:37:00.000-06:00

Registration remains open for the 2011 Powerhouse regional youth conference, which will take place Nov. 12-13, 2011, at Manchester College (North Manchester, Ind.). It is open to all youth in grades 9-12 and their advisors. Cost for the weekend, including three meals, is $50 for youth, $40 for advisors.

Come hear keynote speaker Jeff Carter, pastor of Manassas (Va.) Church of the Brethren, as he shares on the theme “Follow: If You Dare” and the music of Manchester’s Praise Jam band; learn and discuss in a variety of workshops; enjoy some recreation time; and have fun while meeting new people from around the Midwest. All the details and registration forms are at www.manchester.edu/powerhouse. If you have questions, please contact Walt Wiltschek at wjwiltschek@manchester.edu.

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

Leaf Raking at Camp Emmaus

2011-11-01T17:35:00.000-06:00

The Annual Leaf Raking Party will be held at Camp Emmaus Saturday Nov. 12. The raking begins at 8:00 AM with leaves piling up until Noon. A Work Day provides Fun and Fellowship. And if it should RAIN the next date for raking will be the following Saturday, November 19. Come out and enjoy a day at Camp.

Springfield Church shares DVD’s

2011-11-01T17:34:00.000-06:00

A five session study on the topic, "Confronting Death: A Christian Approach to the End of Life," has recently been concluded at First Church, Springfield. The study, using a DVD, is a series of presentations by Rev. Walter Wangerin, Jr. First Church would be happy to share it with any interested congregation in the district. For information contact the Springfield Church of the Brethren at pastor@1stcob.net or phone at 217-523-5212.

Camp Emmaus Pool Dedicated

2011-11-01T17:32:00.000-06:00

After a tough summer of delays in updating and re-construction, mainly due to weather problems, the pool at Camp Emmaus is ready for swimmers starting in the summer of 2012. As the pool was not ready for use in the various camps at Emmaus this summer (the first time in 50 years), some other outside facilities were used and the camp board really appreciates the accessibility. A service of dedication for the pool was held Sept. 3 in the Camp Emmaus lodge at the annual appreciation dinner.

Camp Emmaus is owned and operated by the Illinois-Wisconsin District of the Church of the Brethren on 97 acres outside Mt. Morris. Besides the swimming pool and 1 acre lake, the camp has 9 log cabins able to handle 185 campers, a main lodge with kitchen and dining facilities and a retreat lodge and log cabin for year round use. Brethren camps use the facilities in July and August otherwise the camp is available to be rented by other groups. Bill Hare, the camp manager, can be contacted at (815) 734-4268 for more information.

The pool is available for open swim on weekend afternoons in the summer.

Taking Care of Church Business

2011-11-01T17:29:00.000-06:00

Congregations select individuals to represent them in the various aspects of their operational activities. One of those important activities is the management of the congregation’s financial matters. Elected leadership of the congregation typically completes required paperwork with banks and other financial organizations authorizing specific individuals to conduct financial business on behalf of the congregation. Although it is customary for the congregation to select these individuals as a matter of routine business each year, a congregation also needs to routinely revisit the paperwork on file with the various financial institutions with which it conducts business to ensure that the list of authorized individuals is kept current. Doing so minimizes difficulty that may occur due to out-of-date paperwork.

Consider two scenarios, which are offered to make the point:

Scenario 1: A congregation elects a new treasurer because the one who has served the church for the past many years moved to a distant city. Because of an emergency, the new treasurer goes to the bank to withdraw money from the church’s checking account and learns that she is not authorized to conduct business with the bank on behalf of the congregation. The paperwork was not updated at the bank in a timely manner, and now there will be a delay while the necessary corrections are completed. This may be a short delay or a longer delay depending on the requirements of the bank and the availability of church representatives who are acceptable to the bank for making the corrections. In the meantime, the emergency cannot be addressed.

Scenario 2: A congregation encounters a very divisive situation that causes some members to leave the congregation in anger. Those who leave the congregation include the current elected leadership of the congregation. The congregation elects new leadership but, in the pressure of the moment, fails to contact the bank and complete paperwork authorizing the new leadership to conduct business on behalf of the congregation. This poses a risk for the congregation because the bank still recognizes the former leadership as the authorized individuals and would honor requests if made by the former leadership.

Every congregation should review all authorizations issued on its behalf on a regular basis, at least once a year, and each time new leadership is called into service. Each review should include contacting every financial organization with which the congregation has a relationship to ensure that the list of authorized individuals is current and accurate.

Submitted by District Executive, Kevin Kessler.

Best Practices Resource Workshop

2011-11-01T17:23:00.000-06:00

Registration is now open for the Best Practices Resource Workshop, to be held Saturday, Feb. 4, 2012, in Kansas City, Mo. The seminar is co-sponsored by Church of the Brethren Benefit Trust, and is designed for pastors, church treasurers, financial secretaries, stewardship and finance committee members, and others involved with the finances of their church. This workshop for congregations will empower your church to better understand —

Best Practices in Financial Management for the Local Congregation
Health Reform and the Church
Latest Pastoral Housing Issues
Taxation, Compensation, and Retirement Issues

This event is led by the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability, a Christian financial educational organization. A group of member denominations affiliated with the Church Benefits Association, including BBT, is sponsoring the event. The CBA is a voluntary membership association of approximately 50 church pension boards, religious orders, and denominational benefit programs for clergy and church professionals.

The Best Practices Resource Workshop will be held Saturday, Feb. 4, 2012, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Kansas City International Airport Marriott, Kansas City, Mo. Registration information is available at www.ecfa.org/events. Scroll down to the “Best Practices Resource Workshop” and click on “Register now.” The workshop registration fee is $50.

Brethren Benefit Trust is an official not-for-profit agency reportable to Church of the Brethren Annual Conference, the denomination’s highest elected authority. BBT provides retirement benefits, health and welfare benefits, asset management, and financial advocacy to pastors, employees, and members of the denomination. As the financial agency of the Church of the Brethren, BBT seeks to serve as a financial advocate for its members.

New Church Planting Conference

2011-11-01T17:15:00.000-06:00

May 17 – 19, 2012
Bethany Theological Seminary, Richmond, IN

Plant Generously, Reap Bountifully

This dynamic gathering will include worship, prayer, keynote addresses, over 30 workshops, small group conversations, networking opportunities, community outreach experiences, and a focused track for Spanish speakers.

Keynote Leadership

Mike Chong Perkinson is Lead Pastor of Estrella Mountain Church in Goodyear, Arizona, a trained Natural Church Development coach-consultant, author and the senior developer for Praxis Center for Church Development. He is married to Theresa and they have two daughters.

Rev. Tom Johnston is a church planter, author, leadership developer, pastor, Divisional Superintendent with Foursquare Churches, and Executive Director of The Praxis Center for Church Development. He lives in Raymond, NH with his wife Cathy.

www.brethren.org/churchplanting

Church of the Brethren Planting Network
churchplanting@brethren.org
Sponsored by the Church of the Brethren New Church Development Advisory Committee and Congregational Life Ministries in partnership with Bethany Theological Seminary.

Positions Available at Elgin Office

2011-11-01T17:10:00.000-06:00

Data Analyst and Registration Specialist

Full-time, hourly position to ensure accurate and timely data flow between organizational databases and creates online registration and donation forms. Builds, tests, and supports those forms. Runs routine processes related to databases including data synchronization. Works with various organizational databases and reconciles discrepancies caused by information flow between them. Assists in or manages other website-related projects as assigned. Skills should include database management, problem-solving, multi-tasking, attention to detail, teamwork, customer service orientation, and ability to maintain confidentiality. Computer experience required. MPAct or other CRM solution experience helpful. Convio or other web-building solution experience helpful. Associates or Bachelor degree preferred.

Support Specialist

Full-time, hourly position to coordinate and provide the services of the Buildings and Grounds Department. No experience required. Serves as event planner, Office including scheduling, coordination, catering services, tours, employee functions, and special events. Receive and deliver all incoming packages and mail. Provide support for outsourced mail processing. Responsible for the break room operations, including ordering, stocking, and overall appearance. Maintain and manage inventory of office supplies including purchasing of supplies and equipment following established guidelines. Oversees the day to day photocopier needs. Responsible for receiving, loading, and coordinating trailer replacement. Responsible for the set up of conference rooms, and supports the office moves of employees within the building. Serves as custodian and operator of Buildings and Grounds vehicle. Responsible for the day-to-day storage, organization, and tidiness of the warehouse and dock. Assists with any building or maintenance task as instructed. Back up for selected tasks when the Director is absent. Visitor and delivery door monitoring. Occasional weekend or after hours work required. Good oral and written communication skills. Ability to maintain detailed records. Ability to lift and move objects up to 75 lbs. Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license. High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.

Program Assistant

Congregational Life Ministries of the Church of the Brethren is seeking a full-time program assistant to support the executive director and a staff of six directors. This position requires excellent computer skills, strong interpersonal communication, and the ability to prioritize and follow through on a diversity of simple clerical and more complex organizational responsibilities. The preferred candidate will be proficient in both verbal and written English; demonstrate accuracy with basic financial transactions; efficiently collect, organize and manage data; work easily with email and web-based applications; have experience coordinating meetings and events; and effectively manage multiple tasks. Sensitivity to other cultures is essential; fluency in Spanish is welcome.

We will begin reviewing applications on November 5th and until the position is filled. Qualified candidates should contact Karin Krog at kkrog@brethren.org for an application packet.

Karin L. Krog, Director of Human Resources, Church of the Brethren
1451 Dundee Ave, Elgin, IL 60120-1694, 847-742-5100 Extension 258
kkrog@brethren.org, www.brethren.org

District Potluck

2011-11-01T17:03:00.000-06:00

APRIL 28, 2012

at

Peoria Church of the Brethren

WORSHIP * WORKSHOPS * FELLOWSHIP * FOOD

LEADERSHIP WILL INCLUDE
DONNA KLINE, CHRIS DOUGLAS, GENIE FIFER,
DENISE NICHOLS, JOHN SGRO AND OTHERS.

Registration Fee --- $5.00

Plan now to attend this exciting event. Bring your favorite potluck dish toenjoy with others from across the district. Drinks and table service will beprovided. Share this information with others in your church. There will besomething for everyone including pastors, Christian education teachers,deacons, spiritual advisors, and those who simply want to learn, worship, andenjoy wonderful fellowship. So, bring a car load. More details aboutworkshops coming later.

This one-day event is being planned by your District Deacons on behalf of theLeadership Team of the District.

Historic Sites Jigsaw Puzzle

2011-11-01T16:37:00.000-06:00

Pleasant Hill Village proudly presents

Church of the Brethren
Illinois/Wisconsin District
Historic Sites Jigsaw Puzzle

Including information insert with 80-question quiz

Jigsaw Puzzles make perfect gifts for all occasions!Place your order and reserve copies today.$20 per puzzle, includes group activity insert with quiz,answers and a key to the current and historic sites.

This puzzle makes for a great group activity.
Complete the puzzle together AND enjoy fellowship:

Locate more than 100 historic Church of the Brethren sites of the IL/WI District
Identify puzzle pictures of current meeting houses, care hones, offices and camps
Take the 80-question quiz and name the historic Brethren meetinghouses, persons, events and locations
Support Pleasant Hill Village! All funds raised will go to preserve the historic materials of the Brethren Home of Girard

Send a Gift Option
$25 includes shipping to family and friends anywhere in the USA, and we will include a note card with your personal message.

Call Chaplain Terry Link at 217-627-2181 and pre-order your puzzles today!!

Calendar of District Events

2011-11-01T15:50:00.000-06:00

NOVEMBER

4–6 - District Conference @ Lake Williamson
6 - Daylight Savings Time Ends
12 - Camp Emmanuel Board Meeting
12-13 - Regional Youth Conference @ Manchester College
18-19 - Leadership Team Retreat @ Camp Emmaus
24 - Thanksgiving
27 - First Sunday of Advent

DECEMBER

21 - Hanukkah
25 - Christmas
26 - Kwanzaa

FEBRUARY

1–17 - BVS Winter Orientation
20 - President’s Day

MARCH

10–12 - Mission & Ministry Board @ New Windsor

APRIL

6 - Good Friday
7 - First Day of Passover
8 - Easter
23–May 4 - BVS Older Adult Orientation
28 - District Pot Luck @ Peoria CoB

MAY

1 - Labor Day
6 - National Youth Sunday
13 - Mother’s Day
17–19 - New Church Dev. Conf. @ Richmond, IN
25–28 - Camp Emmaus Memorial Day Family Camp
28 - Memorial Day

JUNE

10–29 - BVS Summer Orientation
16–22 - National Young Adult Conf. @ Knoxville
17 - Father’s Day

JULY

6–7 - Ministers Assoc. Pre-Conf. @ St. Louis, MO
6–11 - Annual Conference @ St. Louis, MO
7 - Mission & Ministry Board @ St. Louis, MO
13–15 - Camp Emmaus Counselor-in-Training Event
14–15 - Camp Emmaus Elementary I Camp
17–20 - Camp Emmaus Elementary II Camp
22–28 - Camp Emmaus Senior High Camp

AUGUST

July 20–August 3 - BVS/BRF Orientation @ New Windsor
July 29–August 4 - Camp Emmaus Junior High Camp
5–10 - Camp Emmaus Elementary III Camp
10–12 - Camp Emmaus Women's Camp

SEPTEMBER

Aug 31–Sept 3 - Camp Emmaus Labor Day Family Camp
3 - Labor Day
September 16–Oct 5 - BVS Fall Orientation
17 - Rosh Hashanah
26 - Yom Kippur

OCTOBER

September 16–Oct 5 - BVS Fall Orientation
20–23 - Mission & Ministry Board @ Elgin, IL

NOVEMBER

4 - National Jr. High Sunday
16–18 - Mission Alive @ Lititz, PA
22 - Thanksgiving Day
25 - First Sunday of Advent

DECEMBER

9 - First Day of Chanukah/Hanukkah
25 - Christmas Day
31 - New Year’s Eve

The Reflector -- October 2011 -- Vol 8 Issue 8

2011-10-01T23:32:00.000-05:00

DE Thoughts by Kevin Kessler

2011-10-01T21:45:00.000-05:00

Leviticus 19:33-34

When an alien resides with you in your land, youshall not oppress the alien. The alien who resideswith you shall be to you as the citizen among you;you shall love the alien as yourself, for you werealiens in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.

The community of Canton has again this year reada book together through an initiative called SpoonRiver Reads. The book is a classic authored by WillaCather entitled My Antonia. It is a story about aparticular immigrant family from Bohemia whosettle in Nebraska, near a little town called BlackHawk. The story depicts the challenges associatedwith trying to start life in a new country, includingthe difficulties of learning a new language,developing new relationships, and understandingdifferent customs.

The two main characters in the book are JamesQuayle Burden, or Jim as he is referred to most often,and Antonia Shimerda. Antonia is the daughter ofthe Bohemian immigrant family. Jim is a young ladwho lived in Virginia but because of the prematuredeath of his parents he goes to live with hisgrandparents in Nebraska.

The story is actually told from Jim’s perspective.He remembers fondly the friendship that he andAntonia forge as they learned to know each otherin their new home of Nebraska. Jim also remembersthe difficulty and stress the Shimerda’s, theimmigrant family, endured.

Mr. Shirmerda was not a farmer until he came toNebraska. Learning this new occupation was morethan he could handle. The family could not speakEnglish, except for Antonia who spoke a few words.Their one son had a mental disability and the otherson was angry. Mrs. Shimerda possessed some ratherstrange idiosyncrasies. They did not fit in with theother settlers and townspeople, thus they felt alone,isolated, rejected.

The immigrant family wasconsidered alien, strange,foreign, peculiar by theirneighbors except for Jim’sgrandparents, Josiah andEmmaline Burden. Thiscaring, loving couplelooked past the uncommon exteriors of theimmigrant family to see the deep needs of a hurting,displaced people. The Burden’s understood theimperatives of Leviticus 19:33-34.

Immigration seems to be of such great concern in ourcountry these days that impatient state governmentsare passing immigration laws pre-empting the workof federal lawmakers. The legislation being enactedseems to be most concerned with economic issues.The fear is that immigrants, primarily illegalimmigrants, are getting a larger slice of the socialbenefits pie than Americans. The concern is moreabout economic issues than understanding thereasons people come to this country.

What are the needs of immigrants? What difficultiesin their homeland may have forced them to move?War? Loss of work and the inability to support afamily? Oppression? Hopelessness? From aChristian perspective, is it not unfair to askimmigrants, even those here illegally, to go backto live in the oppression from which they came?

Doesn’t Leviticus advise to not oppress the alien/foreigner/stranger/immigrant? Don’t these sameverses suggest that we are to love the alien/foreigner/stranger/immigrant as we love ourselves?The verses also impress upon us that historically wehave all been aliens/foreigners/strangers/immigrants. How were we treated? How wouldwe want to be treated?

Jim and Emmaline Burden give us an example, andan answer.

District Leadership Team Meets in Dixon

2011-10-01T21:39:00.000-05:00

The District Leadership Team held their regularmeeting at the Dixon Church of the Brethren Sept.17th. The District Executive, Kevin Kessler, openedthe meeting with words from Matthew 5: “You arethe light of the world.” Members shared, at Kevin’srequest, about good works they do.

The Visioning Team reported on the progress theyare making. Discussions on new Property andFunding, Church Development and a reconstitutedDisaster Teams were presented. Another itemdiscussed was the possibility of the LT meeting fewertimes during the year but LT members would alsoserve as liaisons to the different Ministry Teams.

The Team reviewed happenings at the Batavia andDouglas Park Churches. Batavia has ceased holdingservices and the LT has assumed responsibility forthe property. Douglas Park continues to holdSunday Services and a feeding program under theDistrict Leadership Team Meets in Dixondirection of Pastors Herman Ware and Shirley Petracek.The LT will be seeking help from area Churches.

The Rockford Community Church has been welcomedas a fellowship of the Church of the Brethren into theDistrict.

The Board will next meet at the District Conferenceat Lake Williamson.

2001 Youth POWERHOUSE Conference

2011-10-01T21:36:00.000-05:00

The 2011 Powerhouse Regional Youth Conferencetakes place Nov. 12-13, 2011, at Manchester College(North Manchester, Ind.) for youth in grades 9-12and their advisors. We’re excited to have Jeff Carter,pastor of Manassas (Va.) Church of the Brethren, asour keynote speaker, with the theme “Follow: If YouDare.”

Information will be posted as it becomes availableat www.manchester.edu/powerhouse. Registrationopens on Sept. 6; all forms and registrationsmaterials will be distributed via the website thisyear. Cost will be $50 for youth, $40 for advisors.We hope you can join us for this power-packedweekend! If you have questions, please contactWalt Wiltschek at wjwiltschek@manchester.edu.

District Conference Silent Auction

2011-10-01T21:33:00.000-05:00

November 4th & 5th

The Auction Benefits a Variety of District Ministries. Please bring your donations to District Conference. For more information please contact Rick Koch @ 815-225-7812 or at revrick-dutchtown@jcwifi.com

From the Editor

2011-10-01T21:30:00.000-05:00

Some articles that were sent to me for inclusionin the newsletter did not appear. I apologize fornot getting them printed timely. Some were forevents that had already been held and somewere missed because of vacations and a longtime between summer newsletters. PLEASEaccept my apology and continue to send inarticles of events taking place at your Church.We truly need to be a District in touch with eachother.

Gil Crosby, Editor.

District Conference Letter/Packets

2011-10-01T21:26:00.000-05:00

IL/WI District Church of the Brethren
269 E. Chestnut Street • Canton IL 61520
Phone and fax: 309-649-6008

District Executive: Kevin Kessler, kevink.iwdcob@sbcglobal.net
Administrative Assistant: Beth Carpentier, bethc.iwdcob@att.net

August 26, 2011

Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Have you registered for District Conference yet? Your packet contains all the information that you will needto register you and your family for our District Conference that is being held at Lake Williamson ChristianCenter in Carlinville, Illinois, November 4-6. Along with our host church, Hurricane Creek Church of theBrethren, we invite you to experience this district-wide event in a setting that offers new possibilities forfamily activities such as a movie night, bonfire and hayrack ride, swimming, as well as buffet style meals, alove feast, inspirational worship, insight sessions, and new and old business.

In your packet you will find forms for adult, nursery, children, and junior high registration, maps, andactivity guides. All lodging is on-site. The price per person includes lodging, 4 meals (Saturday and Sundaymorning), and the use of the activity center.

Registration and information for youth will be sent in a separate mailing from the district youth advisors.Because the fees are significantly higher for youth this year, the Program and Arrangements Committee issubsidizing the registration fee in the amount of $70.00 for each youth who attends. Contributions to helpcover these costs may be made to the district. If you wish to donate to this effort, please indicate on yourregistration form the additional amount you are contributing along with the regular fee.

We need all registrations by Sept. 30, 2011. Please remember that if you have sent in your registration alongwith your deposit that the balance is due by Sept. 30, 2011. By registering and paying now, you will avoidpaying a $10 late fee after Sept. 30th. There are still rooms available, but we do have a limited number, soplease register as soon as possible.

Start making plans today to experience District Conference in a new place and in a different way!

In Christ’s peace,

Kevin Kessler

District Executive for the Program and Arrangements Committee

Go to the District Website for Registration Forms for Nursery – Preschool, Kindergarten,Junior High and Youth.. www.iwdcob.org

Continuing the work of Jesus peacefully, simply, together.

Illinois/Wisconsin District Conference

2011-10-01T21:20:00.000-05:00

15th Annual Pleasant Hill Village Benefit Dinner & Auction

2011-10-01T21:15:00.000-05:00

“A Tropical Getaway”

Saturday, October 15, 2011 atKnights of Columbus Hall in Virden

You are invited to spend an enjoyable evening withus while helping to raise funds for the residents ofPleasant Hill Village. The fundraiser will featureappetizers, a silent auction, dinner, a live auction,theme-oriented activities, a cake walk and more! Youcan bring friends and make new ones as you enjoyfellowship and bid against one another during theauction. Feel free to wear your favorite tropical attire.

Our goal is to raise $20,000 for projects whichwill include:

Healthcare - an otoscope with a rechargeable base,vinyl reclining chairs, a hydraulic chair for ourBeauty Shop, a pulse oximeter, a waterproof showerradio and six resting chairs, two for each hallway.

Residence - exercise equipment and an emergencytransport chair for the stairways. We would also liketo clean out the campus’ pond and make it moreenjoyable for residents and community members.

Ways you can help us reach our goals:

Purchase tickets - At $30, the price includes a $15donation.

Donate Auction Items - Examples of possibledonations include sporting event tickets, theme giftbaskets, hand-crafted items, service items or use ofa condo.

Cash Donations - We have various Sponsorshiplevels, which include recognition of donors.

For additional information call Paulette at217-627-2181

Pleasant Hill Village Quilt Auction

2011-10-01T21:13:00.000-05:00

Brethren Disaster Ministries needs Volunteers

2011-10-01T21:07:00.000-05:00

The month of Octoberwill find WillardDulabaum in AshlandCity, Tennessee,serving as a projectleader for BrethrenDisaster Ministries.Duly and Paulinetrained to serve as ateam, givingleadership to house reconstruction and providingfood and household management for volunteers,who come by the week. Project leaders serve amonth at a time, and because of Pauline’s health,Duly will be working alongside other leaders inwork supervision.

In May of 2010, as much as 20 inches of rain fell inthree day’s time northwest of Nashville, submergingthousands of homes in the worst flood in Tennesseehistory. Often by the time rebuilding efforts getunder way following a disaster, the actual eventcausing the destruction has faded from ourmemories. That’s because it takes considerabletime for clean-up, followed by assessment, anddetermining which families need assistance inrebuilding. So the Ashland City project opened onJanuary 30, 2011, and the nearby Bellevue/Brentwood effort began this past June.

There is an urgent need for more volunteers at the Bellevue/Brentwood project, with the weeks beginning October 2 and 9 being completely open at this writing, though the volunteer roster at Ashland City is slated full. Also, volunteers are needed at a new project in Pulaski County, Virginia, which opens October 1 in response to two devastating tornadoes this past April 8. If you are interested in serving at any time, call Jane Yount at Brethren Disaster Ministries, 410-635-8731 or 800-451-4407. Duly and Pauline welcome your prayers or inquiries regarding the work in October, and for all those who are serving.

District Deacons Meet by Conference Call

2011-10-01T21:05:00.000-05:00

The District Deacons met by conference call Sept. 8th.Much of the discussion focused on the 2012 DistrictPot Luck which is sponsored by the Deacons. Theevent will be held in Peoria on April 28th. Some ofthe subjects to be presented are Deacon’s Ministry,Spiritual Formation, Scripture Memorizing, Storytellingand others. A committee for the 2013 DistrictPot Luck is being formed with Gil Crosby representingthe Deacons on that committee.

The Deacons discussed requests from Churches whohave sought Deacon support and guidance.

A report for the District Conference will be writtenby Chairman, Judd Peter. Those present for theconference call were Kevin Kessler, DE, Judd Peter,Chm., Gil Crosby, Sec., Jim & Clareen Dunn, LeonSwigart, and Ginny Haney.

Neighborhood Church presents “Cotton Patch Gospel”

2011-10-01T20:59:00.000-05:00

The Neighborhood Church of the Brethren hostedthe musical “Cotton Patch Gospel” on Saturday,September 17, at 7:00 p.m. This one-man musicalwas presented by Phillip Kaufmann, a Mennoniteperformer. The “Cotton Patch Gospel” wasoriginally a book written by Clarence Jordan ofKoinonia Farms in Georgia. It was adapted into aplay by Tom Key and Russell Trez. Harry Chapinthen produced the play into a musical, writing bothmusic and lyrics. Neighborhood members andfriends enjoyed an exciting and inspirationalevening. The Neighborhood Church of the Brethrenis located at 155 Boulder Hill Pass, Montgomery,Illinois.

DISTRICT POTLUCK

2011-10-01T20:51:00.000-05:00

Neighborhood Church begins “Angel Ministries”

2011-10-01T20:44:00.000-05:00

The Neighborhood Church of the Brethren begins anew ministry this fall called “Angel Ministries”. Thisministry is planned for persons with disabilities andtheir families. The vision for this ministry providesa safe space where families can worship with thecongregation while their family member withdisabilities is cared for by trained volunteers.The family member with disabilities will enjoy aChristian environment through song, prayer, storytelling and engaging activities. At NeighborhoodChurch of the Brethren, we describe individualswith disabilities as an ANGEL (All Need God’sEverlasting Love). We believe ANGELS are createdby God for a purpose. We exist to make access toworship, ministry and fellowship a reality. We arealso here to offer support for the people surroundingthe ANGELS and their families. An open house forAngel Ministries was Saturday, September 11,4:00-5:30 p.m. Starting date for the ministry isSunday, September 25. Contact Bob Hamlin at630-957-8144 for preregistration.

Banners for District Conference

2011-10-01T20:40:00.000-05:00

Our Moderator Lisa Fike and the Program and Arrangements Team asks each fellowship/ Church to make a small banner using the conference theme “Joined with me and I with you” from John 15:5 You may also use your Church theme or logo. Banners should be finished size 12” x 15” and include a means of hanging.

They can be made of any material and can be any color. Please include your Church name in some manner. The banners will be the back drop for worship and business services. At conference end the banners will be re-distributed. Each church will receive the banner of a sister church and are encouraged to hold this sister congregation in your prayers throughout the next year.

We please ask that you send the banners to the District Office or give to one of the members of the Program and Arrangements Committee by September 15, 2011.

Members are: Roger Ruth – Springfield, Joyce Person – Dixon, Twila Habegger – York Center, Lisa Fike, Fletcher Farrar, Bill Williams and Kevin Kessler are members Ex-officio.

Calendar of District Events

2011-10-01T20:36:00.000-05:00

OCTOBER

2 - World Communion Sunday
8 - Yom Kippur
8 - Program & Arrangements
10 - Columbus Day
13-16 - Men's Way of Christ Weekend
15 - Leadership Team @ Peoria
20-23 - Women's Way of Christ Weekend #20
22 - Camp Emmanuel Fall Work Day

NOVEMBER

4–6 - District Conference, Lake Williamson
6 - Daylight Savings Time Ends
12 - Camp Emmanuel Board Meeting
12-13 - Regional Youth Conference @ Manchester College
18-19 - Leadership Team Retreat @ Camp Emmaus
24 - Thanksgiving
27 - First Sunday of Advent

DECEMBER

21 - Hanukkah
25 - Christmas
26 - Kwanzaa

The Reflector -- August 2011 -- Vol 8 Issue 7

2011-08-01T23:00:00.000-05:00

From the Moderator, Lisa Fike

2011-08-01T21:47:00.008-05:00

Greetings from Camp Emmaus! As I am composing this letter I am directing Elementary 2 Camp. We have a great group of 9 and 10 year olds and a wonderful counseling and support staff. As I was preparing for the activities at camp I was reminded once again of God’s wonderful ways. When I saw that the theme for our final day at camp is “I am the true vine, my Father is the gardener. I am the vine and you are the branches when I am joined with me and I with you …” John 15:1, 5. Once again God put this scripture in front of me. One of our final activities with the campers will be to make a giant grape cluster using purple balloons and green chenille sticks to represent vines. Each of the participants will be invited to write on a balloon a way they are connected to Jesus....

(Later) After passing the challenge of blowing up balloons and tying them, the children had many great ideas on how they can connect with Jesus; their responses included praying, making Christian friends, go to Sunday school and camp, sing Christian Rap Music! And many, many more.

How do you stay connected to Jesus? As I told the campers at Camp Emmaus …When we are connected to Jesus, we can do amazing things in His name.

A Thank Your from Beth

2011-08-01T21:44:00.001-05:00

I would like to say thank you for the beautiful plant, cards, notes and prayers that our family received after the death of our son, Caleb. There are no words to tell you how much they have meant to us; the comfort that we’ve felt as we read the cards and the sense of peace that was felt each time someone said ‘I’m praying for you’.

Beth Carpentier

Mt. Morris Volunteers

2011-08-01T21:39:00.000-05:00

In the spring of 1989 Donna Elliot was contacted by Roger Ingold of Elgin to come to the General Offices to sort skids of books. She organized a group of persons from Mt. Morris to do this, traveling in Elliott’s van. The General Offices had other projects so the group continued to go to Elgin as volunteers. When Donna began teaching school in the fall of 1990 Dwight Butterbaugh took over organizing the group to work at Elgin. The group assembled the Church of the Brethren pamphlet “Source” which is sent monthly to denominational congregations.

In the spring of 1990 several car loads of volunteers went to Elgin eight or ten times to assemble the Vacation Bible School Kits. Some work was taken back to Mt. Morris to do at night. That project became too big for the volunteers but they continued to do the “Source”.

A “Thank You” luncheon was held at the Mt. Morris Church in the fall of 1991 for the volunteers. In 2000 Uldine Baker assumed the responsibility of organizing volunteers to work at Elgin. The group continues to drive from Mt. Morris to Elgin once a month. Donna Elliott has a list of all the volunteers who have worked on this project at the Mt. Morris Church.

Contributed by Howard Royer.

DE Thoughts by Kevin Kessler

2011-08-01T21:31:00.012-05:00

Read Psalm 145:8-9, 14-21

The news in recent weeks has been, to say the least, a bit depressing, although not any more than usual. However, I’ve been more deeply affected by it for some reason. I find rather disturbing the acts of terrorism in Norway, starving children in African nations, and our U.S. political system having such a difficult time finding a way forward through the debt-ceiling, and all that goes with it, debate. Add to these things the stifling heat and drought, and associated difficulties, in this country, and the level of discomfort resulting from bad news increases. News from our own denomination, as well as from other faith communions, moves me into a state of yet deeper concern.

I consider these moments of deep concern like potholes in the road. When we travel over them occasionally we get jolted around a bit. We may even get bumped slightly off course wondering how to gain control and get back on track.

Having recently hit one of these potholes, I was comforted when I read through the verses in Psalm 145 listed above. Descriptive words for God evident in this text helped me to remember that when we hit the big bumps there is One who ultimately and unconditionally cares for us. Here is a list of descriptors from these verses that I found helpful. God is: gracious, merciful, slow to anger, abounding in steadfast love, good, compassionate, faithful, the One who upholds, the One who raises up, giver, satisfier, just, kind, near, listener, fulfiller, the One who saves, the One who watches over us.

God is not each of these descriptors one at a time but all of them wrapped into one all of the time. So when we become overwhelmed with what goes on around us, we have One whose totality encompasses us. Our problems and concerns are not laid to rest because of God’s omnipresence, but we are comforted because we are abundantly cared for in the midst of our depression, distress, and discomfort.

Because God’s abundance smoothes out the way for us, and we are made in God’s image, I’ve pondered that we, then, are capable of sharing abundantly, with the descriptors from Psalm 145, in the lives of others. In doing so, I envision the news we receive having a different effect than depressing us. Rather, it will enlighten us, encourage us, and empower us We’ll spend more time in thanksgiving and praise. I believe this is possible as we strive to reflect the image of God that we were created to be.

District Conf. Packets

2011-08-01T21:29:00.000-05:00

District conference packets have been mailed to the Churches by the District Office. They include the registration forms and maps to Lake Williamson.

MESSENGER Seeks News Items

2011-08-01T21:24:00.000-05:00

Interim editor for the Messenger, Randy Miller, would like news items from congregations and districts to print in the “In Touch” section of the Messenger. Miller looks through district websites and reads various congregational newsletters to find articles to print. However, it would make his work less time consuming if articles and pictures were sent to him specifically for this section of the magazine. Miller states that “Messenger is a great denominational ‘town square.’ The more information we can share with one another about what’s going on in our churches and districts, the better.”

News and photos can be sent to directly to Randy Miller at: rmiller@brethren.org. Don't be shy about sharing the good news happening in your congregation with the rest of the denomination. Your news may be the spark that ignites the flame for something new to happen in a sister congregation a few miles down the road or somewhere across the country.

A Pastoral Letter from the Council of District Executives

2011-08-01T21:12:00.015-05:00

Out of concern for the state of our denomination, we, the Council of District Executives, offer this pastoral letter to the Church and the gathered body at the 2011 Annual Conference.

We are acutely aware that we live in a time of great anxiety and apprehension, and we recognize that tension exists within the Church. We see this tension straining our bonds of affection, trust and cooperation. In the months preceding Annual Conference, some in our midst already were asking: "How will our denomination survive the internal and external pressures placed upon it?" We also recognize that differing points of view over Biblical interpretation and authority are causing deep pain with the denomination. We affirm our belief in the authority of Scripture as a guide for our living, while acknowledging that Brethren disagree on matters of interpretation.

We see our Church struggling to find that narrow way between several Scriptural mandates. Some in our body sincerely believe they are prophetically calling us to holiness, purity and righteousness and out of the immorality and sinfulness of the prevailing culture. Others sincerely believe they are prophetically calling our Church toward justice for the oppressed and excluded, and inclusion and welcome for those with a different point of view. Members of the body wrestle with discerning sins to be repented of or delivered from and what is to be celebrated as part of the diversity of God’s creation.

We have observed the impact that the district Standing Committee hearings have had on individuals and congregations. We have heard the cry of those who wish to keep the Church together while speaking truth in love to those who hold differing points of view. And we grieve over statements made out of deep convictions but phrased in ways that do not show the love of Christ.

We, the Council of District Executives, are unanimous in our desire to do all we can to keep the Church of the Brethren focused on our unity in our one faith in God revealed in Jesus Christ (Eph. 4:5).

Therefore, individually and as the Council of District Executives:

we covenant to do the hard work of discerning the times that call for forbearance and discerning the times that call for judgment (Acts 15).
we covenant to pray for God's direction and truth for the Church.
we covenant to gather in community around the Scripture, seeking the mind of Christ and the leading of the Holy Spirit.

We urge all members of the Church to join us as we seek God's direction and the mind of Christ. Further, we call our brothers and sisters to renew their baptismal and membership vows, to live and share in the bonds of Christian May we, by God's grace, put aside anxiety, seek Christ's peace, and walk together in faith, hope and love toward the future God has promised.

These Biblical references informed the writing of this letter Jeremiah 7, 1 John 4, Acts 15, 1 Corinthians 13, Ephesians 4, Psalms 46, Romans 8 and Micah 4, John 14:27

District Leadership Team Meets in Peoria

2011-08-01T21:05:00.007-05:00

The Illinois-Wisconsin Leadership Team met at the Peoria Church on July 23rd. The Team Chairperson, Anna Lee Hisey-Pierson opened with a moment of silence and prayer. The DE, Kevin Kessler, reported on the Visioning Team by quoting the Gospel of John Chapter 15. “I am the vine, ye are the branches.” The Team has been working on a Vision and Mission Statement. Kevin also presented the District Executive’s Report to the team. We congratulated him on the birth of a new granddaughter.

A Constitutional amendment has been proposed for the inclusion of the New Church Development Team into the mission of the District. The Team will continue to exist as a parallel entity for continued support for the Rockford Church plant. The Leadership Team will take the responsibility of board members.

Jim Lehman presented the Financial Report as submitted by Pat Heid, our treasurer. The District at the present time is meeting expenses with the contributions coming in from District Churches, investments and individual contributions. The District works with a very modest budget. A new budget was presented and will be brought to the District Conference for approval.

The District Leadership Team presently acts as the Leadership Team for two congregations in the district, Batavia and Douglas Park. The Team discussed possibilities for continuing ministries at these facilities.

The Rockford Church was commended for the wonderful ceremony where they gifted their building to the Rockford Community Church pastored by Samuel Sarpiya.

The Polo Church and the Canton Church have established property covenants into their deeds. Several other Churches are working on placing these protective covenants into their deeds and constitutions.

The next meeting will be held at the Dixon Church of the Brethren on September 17th.

Pleasant Hill Village Annual Dinner

2011-08-01T20:56:00.005-05:00

SAVE THE DATE: Saturday October 15th

Doors open at 5:00 pm for the annual dinner fundraiser for PLEASANT HILL VILLAGE. We again will meet in the Virden Knights of Columbus hall. We are looking for donations of hand-crafted items and pro-sport tickets for this year’s auction. More details to come next month. Until then, view the thrilling pictures of events taking place at The Home on our Facebook page.

Camp Emmaus Dinner & Dedication

2011-08-01T20:50:00.000-05:00

Camp Emmaus will hold an Appreciation Dinner on September 3, 2011. The dinner begins at 5:30 PM. Following the dinner the New Swimming Pool will be dedicated. If you are attending please let Bill or Betty know by Aug. 27th by phoning 815-734-4027. Another successful camp season draws to a close. We really appreciate everyone’s help, gifts and prayers. Please join us to celebrate the completion of the swimming pool.

Camp Emmanuel Family Camp

2011-08-01T20:42:00.001-05:00

September 2 – 5, 2011

Hello Camp Emmanuel Friends,

Labor Day Weekend, and Family Camp, will be here before we know it. Why not welcome fall with old friends and make some new ones at Camp Emmanuel Family Camp? This is how we wrap up summer and welcome the fall every year.

Please complete and return a registration form so the camp deans, managers, and cooks can better plan for the weekend. Additionally, register before August 19th and get a discount on the fees. See a schedule for the weekend so you will know what to expect.

If you have any questions call Mike or Ruth Siburt, camp managers, at 309-329-2291 or the Co-Deans.

Hope to see you at Camp Emmanuel over the Labor Day Weekend.

Ray and Kitty Knotts, Co-Deans (309-692-0846)
Andy and Teresa Fulk, Sarah and Debra, Co-Deans (217-763-6624)

Illinos/Wisconsin District Conference

2011-08-01T20:27:00.003-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Oakley Brick and West Branch

2011-08-01T20:21:00.000-05:00

CONGRATULATIONS and a big Happy Birthday as well, to two congregations within the IL/WI District. Unless you are a history buff you may not know that two of our congregations have reached a significant milestone this year. Oakley Brick (1856) is celebrating 155 years as a church, and West Branch (1846) is celebrating 165 years as a church. Here’s an idea – have your congregation send them a card to help celebrate! In the meantime read their histories in the books, “Church of the Brethren in Southern Illinois” and “Brethren in Northern Illinois and Wisconsin”. In their histories you will discover which one is the answer to a quiz question below.

At one time, this church was named Sangamon Valley, until they learned another held the same name.
After a summer Love Feast for Brethren living in the county was held in the barn of John Price, this church was organized.

Submitted by Terry Link, Chaplin at Pleasant Hill Village

District Congregations Respond to Call for Comforters

2011-08-01T20:17:00.000-05:00

For the 2011 Annual Conference in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Moderator Robert Alley asked that each district bring a comforter. Initially, they were to be donated to Church World Service, but it was later determined that resources would be greater if they were auctioned and the money used to purchase blankets for donation. A total of $3240 was raised for this cause. Our District Leadership Team decided to invite congregations to make comforters and since only one went on to Annual Conference, the others will be auctioned off at District Conference this November. The following churches sent comforters: Freeport, Decatur, Franklin Grove, Mt. Morris, Cherry Grove, West Branch, Elgin Highland Avenue, Cerro Gordo, Allison Prairie, Woodland, and Dixon. All of the comforters were beautiful and well made. A committee from a neutral church selected the one from Franklin Grove (left middle with the gold cross in the picture) to represent the Illinois/Wisconsin District. All of the district comforters were displayed across the front of the stage at Annual Conference. Others will be available for bid in November. Thanks to all who participated for the wonderful display of workmanship and commitment to this project.

Submitted by Ed Garrison, Ill.-Wisc. Standing Committee Delegate.

Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leaqdership

2011-08-01T17:33:00.000-05:00

Upcoming Academy Level Courses:

“Introduction to Old Testament” Online, Instructor: Craig Gandy, September 12 – November 5, 2011 (BT)

Registration Deadline: August 12, 2011
“Jesus and the Law”, Online, Instructor: Susan Jeffers, September 19 – October 28, 2011 (BT) ^SVMC

SVMC Registration Deadline: September 5, 2011
* **“Seeing Things Through John’s Eyes: A Study of Revelation”, McPherson College, McPherson KS Instructor: Rick Gardner, Bethany Emeritus Professor of New Testament Studies, September 22-25, 2011 (BT)

Registration Deadline: August 22, 2011
“Now the Silence, Now the Songs: The Body of Christ at Worship”, Online, Instructor: Lee-Lani Wright, October 17 – December 16, 2011 (MS)

Registration Deadline: September 16, 2011

2012 Courses:

*“The Historic Peace Churches Seeking Cultures of Peace”, Bethany Theological Seminary, Richmond IN, Instructor: Scott Holland, Bethany Professor of Peace Studies and Cross-Cultural Studies, January 9-13, 2012 (BT or MS depending on focus of final project)

Registration Deadline: December 9, 2011
“The Spiritual Life of the Congregation”, Online, Instructor: Rhonda Pittman Gingrich, Winter 2012 (MS)
“Matthew and the Brethren”, Online, Instructor: Susan Jeffers, February 12 – March 23, 2012 (BT) ^SVMC

SVMC Registration Deadline: January 30, 2012
*“The Protestant National Church in Germany Today” a study travel experience to Marburg, Germany with Instructor: Kendall Rogers, Bethany Professor of Historical Studies, May 18-June 3, 2012. TRIM students will receive 2 units of credit in Bible and Theology (BT). EFSM students will receive credit for one learning experience. Both will meet their Bethany and Intercultural experience requirements. 4 CEUs will be awarded to ordained clergy. Please call the Brethren Academy Office to join the list of those who will be informed of details as they emerge.

Registration deadline: December 1, 2011
“Defining Set-Apart Ministry within the Bi-vocational Reality” Online, Instructor: Sandra Jenkins, June 6 – August 14, 2012 (one week off for Annual Conference), 2012 (MS)

Registration Deadline: May 4, 2012

Please note: While we continue to accept students beyond the Registration Deadline, on that date we determine whether we have enough students to offer a course. Many courses have required pre-course readings, so students need to be sure to allow enough time to complete those.

*Bethany Experience
**Brethren College Experience
Courses noted as ^SVMC need to be registered through the Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center at SVMC@etown.edu, or call 717-361-1450

Courses are open to TRIM students, pastors (earn 2 CEUs) and all interested persons. TRIM designations: BT (Bible/Theology credit) MS (Ministry Skills credit)

Registration brochures for these and other training opportunities are available through the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership at their website: www.bethanyseminary.edu/academy or by calling 1-800-287-8822, ext 1824.

Pledge to Actual Comparison

2011-08-01T17:26:00.002-05:00

Position Announcement

2011-08-01T17:12:00.001-05:00

Position

Programmer Analyst & Technology Support Specialist

Description

This is a full-time salaried position based in Elgin, Ill., for a not-for-profit, faith-based organization that provides Pension, Insurance, and Foundation services for 6,000 individuals and client organizations nationwide. This position reports to the Director of Operations for Information Technology.

Church of the Brethren Benefit Trust is one of four official agencies of the Church of the Brethren, a Protestant denomination founded in 1708 that includes more than 122,000 members, 1,050 congregations, five colleges and one university, one seminary, and more than 20 affiliated retirement communities.

Function

This person serves as the programmer analyst and provides technology support.

Scope of Duties

The primary responsibility is to develop and maintain a working knowledge of all IT systems; handle technology support requests from staff; write, analyze, review, and rewrite programs as well as maintain current computer programs; conduct trial runs; write documentation of programmed applications; provide backup for the Director of Operations for Information Technology, and complete other duties assigned by the Director.

Knowledge/Experience

The ideal candidate will possess a high level of technical proficiency, intense attention to detail, impeccable integrity, a collegial and engaging demeanor, and a strong faith commitment.

We are seeking candidates with an undergraduate degree in computer science or related fields/work experience. Requirements include strong verbal and written communications skills, the ability to work independently and to conceptualize and understand data with minimal direction, and proficiency in --
Microsoft Visual Studio (2008/10) – .net Framework, MS SQL, XML

VB.net or C#

Windows Forms Application and ASP.net

In addition to required skills, preferred skills include Javascript, HTML, Sharepoint, SSRS, AJAX and Crystal Reports. Current and active membership in the Church of the Brethren is preferred; current and active membership in a faith community is required.

Salary/Benefits

Salary and benefits are competitive with Church Benefits Association agencies of comparable size and scope of services. A full benefits package is included.

Applying

Please send a letter of interest, résumé, three professional references, and salary-range expectation to Donna March at 1505 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120, or dmarch_bbt@brethren.org. For questions or clarification about the position, please call 847-622-3371. You may also apply using the form below. For more information about Brethren Benefit Trust, visit www.brethrenbenefittrust.org.

Regional Youth Conference

2011-08-01T17:08:00.000-05:00

The 2011 Powerhouse Regional Youth Conference will take place at Manchester College (North Manchester, Ind.) Nov. 12-13. Jeff Carter, pastor of Manassas (Va.) Church of the Brethren, will be our keynote speaker for the weekend. Other details will be developed in the months ahead, but for now please mark your calendars and plan to join us! For questions, contact the Manchester College Campus Ministry office at wjwiltschek@manchester.edu. Walt Wiltschek; MC Campus Ministry, 260-982-5243

Banners For District Conference

2011-08-01T16:58:00.009-05:00

Calendar of Upcoming Events

2011-08-01T16:55:00.002-05:00

AUGUST

2-5 - Camp Emmaus Elementary II Camp
5-7 - Camp Emmaus Women's Camp
12-14 - Camp Emmanuel Men's Camp
14 - Camp Emmanuel Board Meeting
20 - Program & Arrangements

SEPTEMBER

2–5 - Camp Emmanuel Family Camp
2-5 - Camp Emmaus Family Camp
5 - Labor Day
5-9 - NOAC, Lake Junaluska
11 - Grandparent’s Day
17 - Leadership Team @ Dixon
21 - International Day of Peace
29 - Rosh Hashanah

OCTOBER

2 - World Communion Sunday
8 - Yom Kippur
8 - Program & Arrangements
10 - Columbus Day
13-16 - Men's Way of Christ Weekend
15 - Leadership Team @ Peoria
20-23 - Women's Way of Christ Weekend #20
22 - Camp Emmanuel Fall Work Day

NOVEMBER

4–6 - District Conference, Lake Williamson
6 - Daylight Savings Time Ends
12 - Camp Emmanuel Board Meeting
12-13 - Regional Youth Conference @ Manchester College
18-19 - Leadership Team Retreat @ Camp Emmaus
24 - Thanksgiving
27 - First Sunday of Advent

DECEMBER

21 - Hanukkah
25 - Christmas
26 - Kwanzaa

The Reflector -- June 2011 -- Vol 8 Issue 6

2011-06-01T22:30:00.000-05:00

From the Moderator, Lisa Fike

2011-06-01T21:06:00.000-05:00

For Brethren our Holy reenactment of Jesus’ last supper with his disciples, or Love Feast, has been a wonderful tradition. It provides a reminder of the relationship that we have with each other and with Christ. Historically Brethren from neighboring congregations would gather to prepare and celebrate the Love Feast. I live in the Northwestern section of our district and at least a couple of our churches have the sleeping rooms above their sanctuary. These rooms were constructed so they could host the several day love feast celebrations.

It is with that tradition along with a contemporary desire to be “joined with me and I with you” that our Friday evening worship at district conference 2011 will be Love feast. We will include the agape meal, feet washing and communion. We hope that you will make plans to be a part of this very special evening as we celebrate our unity as Brethren and members of the Body of Christ.

Lisa J. Fike, Pastor and Moderator
Freeport Church of the Brethren

Brethren Disaster Team Reports To Joplin, Missouri

2011-06-01T21:01:00.001-05:00

Children’s Disaster Services responds in Joplin, Brethren Disaster Ministries reports on preliminary activities, requests EDF grant

At the request of the American Red Cross, a team of Children’s Disaster Service (CDS) volunteers were to arrive by this morning in Joplin, Mo., to set up a Children’s Disaster Services Center at the Missouri Southern State University shelter.

The volunteers will care for children in the aftermath of the tornado that caused significant destruction on May 22. The twister rated a strong EF 5, packing winds up to 198 m.p.h., and cut a path a mile wide and six miles long through the most densely populated area of the city of 49,000.

Following a conference call with the Missouri VOAD
(Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster), Patricia Dennison reported that the area is "being overwhelmed with truckloads of clothes," and officials are hard pressed to find more places to store them. She says they’re asking people instead to "donate them to a local charity or have a large garage sale and send the money" to be used where most needed.

Responding with much-needed monetary donations is the best way to help disaster relief organizations which already have been stretched by the severe weather this spring

To support the 2011 US spring storms appeal, send your gift to Emergency Disaster Fund, Church of the Brethren, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120. Give online at www.brethren.org/disaster.

Jane Yount is coordinator for Brethren Disaster Ministries in New Windsor, Md.

Disaster Ministries needs School Kits and Clean-up Buckets

2011-06-01T20:59:00.000-05:00

The current inventory of School Kits and Emergency Clean-up Buckets is too low to meet the expected demand for the upcoming springtime flood season reports Chris Herlinger of Church World Service. They are appealing to all members including the Church of the Brethren to promote these needs to each congregation within the denomination. The efforts of Church members are critical to help meet the requests and replenish the supply.

For information on assembling the kits and buckets go to: www.churchworldservice.org/kits

Lake Williamson Lodge

2011-06-01T20:57:00.000-05:00

District conference packets have been mailed to the Churches by the District Office. They include the registration forms and maps to the Lake Williamson site.

Emergency Disaster Fund makes grants for tornado response

2011-06-01T20:51:00.001-05:00

Two grants have been given from the Church of the Brethren’s Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF) for disaster response work following recent tornadoes in the United States. A grant of $15,000 responds to an expanded appeal from Church World Service (CWS) following a weekend of tornadoes that affected seven states from Oklahoma to Minnesota, and $5,000 supports the work of Children’s Disaster Services (CDS) volunteers in Joplin, Mo.

The grant to CWS will help pay for shipments of material aid and provide resources and training in the development of long-term recovery groups in affected communities. A prior grant of $7,500 from the EDF responded to the initial appeal from CWS for this project, made on May 13.

The grant for the work of CDS in Joplin responds to the EF 5 tornado that hit the city May 22. FEMA requested CDS volunteers to care for children in Disaster Recovery Centers there. The grant pays for travel, lodging, and food for the volunteer CDS teams.

Children’s Disaster Services has 20 volunteers working in Joplin, caring for children at a Multi Agency Resource Site, two FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers, and in a Red Cross shelter. In addition, a specially trained critical response team is accompanying the Red Cross’s Integrated Care team on home visits to families who have experienced a death when there are children in the home.

To contribute to the work of Brethren Disaster Ministries and Children’s Disaster Services, or to learn more about the Emergency Disaster Fund, go to www.brethren.org/edf.

(Article from Church of the Brethren Newsline.)

Brethren Benefit Trust Notice

2011-06-01T20:48:00.000-05:00

What do you know about long-term care insurance?

Do you know that 75 percent of people age 65 and older will eventually need long-term care?

Do you know that about 75 percent of all single people and 50 percent of all couples spend their entire savings within one year of entering a nursing home?

Do you know that, for every one person receiving long-term care in a nursing home, there are four people receiving home health care?

Here’s another thing you should know — Brethren Insurance Services, a ministry of Brethren Benefit Trust, offers LTCi for all Church of the Brethren members, as well as their families and friends.

Long-term care insurance is the only insurance that pays for the kind of custodial care that becomes necessary with the loss of two or more activities of daily living — bathing, eating, dressing, toileting, continence, and transferring — or cognitive impairment.

The provider companies with which Brethren Insurance Services works include John Hancock, Genworth, Mutual of Omaha, Prudential, Transamerica, and Lincoln. These companies provide comprehensive insurance plans that include home care, skilled care, assisted living, respite care, and hospice care. All of these companies are A-rated or better by A.M. Best, a source that evaluates the financial stability of insurance companies.

A recent feature available with these policies is a qualification for a state partnership, which provides the capacity to protect some of the insured’s financial assets if the policy runs out while care is still needed. Currently, 40 states participate in this partnership.

Want to know more? Please contact Randy Yoder, Client Development Representative for Brethren Insurance Services, at 847-622-3362 or ryoder_bbt@brethren.org.

Annual Conference

2011-06-01T20:46:00.000-05:00

in Grand Rapids, MI
July 2-6, 2011

NOAC Bus to Lake Junaluska

2011-06-01T20:43:00.000-05:00

A bus to National Older Adult Conference in Junaluska, North Carolina has been reserved for transport from Mt. Morris on Sunday, September 4, 2011. The bus will return on September 10, 2011. The group will make an overnight stay going and returning. The cost is $260.00 for the bus fare including double motel occupancy. For information and registration, please contact: Marvin Thill, 521 Eugene St., Stockton, IL 61085; 815-947-3197; bettyandmarvin@gmail.com

Persons associated with churches in the southern part of the district are welcome to ride on the Western Plains bus boarding at Carbondale. Call David Fruth for details: 620-245-0674.

For information about NOAC go to www.brethren.org/NOAC or call Kim Ebersole at (800) 323-8039, ext. 30

38th Annual Brethren Bible Institute

2011-06-01T20:38:00.000-05:00

Summer Term July 25-29, 2011
(on the campus of Elizabethtown College, Elizabethtown, PA
Sponsored by: Brethren Revival Fellowship

Applications available at:
Brethren Bible Institute
155 Denver Road, Denver, PA 17517

Application process completed by: June 24, 2011

Banners For District Conference

2011-06-01T20:36:00.000-05:00

Our Moderator Lisa Fike and the Program and Arrangements Team asks each fellowship/Church to make a small banner using the conference theme “Joined with me and I with you” from John 15:5 You may also use your Church theme or logo. Banners should be finished size 12” X 15” and include a means of hanging. They can be made of any material and can be any color. Please include your Church name in some manner. The banners will be the back drop for worship and business services. At conference end the banners will be re-distributed. Each church will receive the banner of a sister church and are encouraged to hold this sister congregation in your prayers throughout the next year.

We please ask that you send the banners to the District Office or give to one of the members of the Program and Arrangements Committee by September 15, 2011. Members are: Roger Ruth – Springfield, Joyce Person – Dixon, Twila Habegger – York Center, Lisa Fike, Fletcher Farrar, Bill Williams and Kevin Kessler are members Ex-officio.

Brethren and the Civil War

2011-06-01T20:30:00.001-05:00

In a recent newsletter, Shenandoah District included the following reflection on the 150th anniversary of the start of the Civil War, and how Brethren at the time responded:

On May 19-22, 1861, the Brethren held their Yearly Meeting at Beaver Creek (now a congregation near Bridgewater, Va.). This is a particularly historic and meaningful gathering that deserves commemoration because it occurred in their district during the turbulent, opening days of the Civil War.

Through the winter and spring, 1861, as the nation spiraled toward disunion, the Dunkers debated whether to change the location of their meeting. As nonresistants and opponents of slavery, Brethren were a conspicuous minority in a slave-holding region preparing for war. Northern Dunkers feared that travel south was too risky, but Virginia Brethren countered that it was just as dangerous for them to journey north and the meeting proceeded as planned.

The turnout was large, but only four northern congregations sent representatives. The editor of the local newspaper, the "Rockingham Register," visited and wrote a lengthy and very interesting report.

Consider sharing this information with your church as a Brethren-style remembrance of the Civil War sesquicentennial, a basis for preaching, a Minute for Mission, a Sunday school topic, or some other form of commemoration. Interested persons can consult the Annual Conference minutes and Roger Sappington’s book "The Brethren in the New Nation." For further information, including early 19th-century hymns that are still familiar and in the blue hymnal, contact Steve Longenecker, Professor of History, Bridgewater College, slongene@bridgewater.edu.

(taken from the Church of the Brethren Newsline.)

Layman’s 10 Commandments

2011-06-01T20:26:00.001-05:00

Prayer is not a "spare wheel" that you pull out when in trouble, but it is a “steering wheel” that directs the right path throughout.
Why is a car's WINDSHIELD so large & the Rearview Mirror so small? Because our PAST is not as important as our FUTURE. So, Look Ahead and Move on.
Friendship is like a BOOK. It takes a few seconds to burn, but it takes years to write.
All things in life are temporary. If going well, enjoy it, they will not last forever. If going wrong, don't worry, they can't last long either.
Old Friends are Gold! New Friends are Diamond! If you get a Diamond, don't forget the Gold! Because to hold a Diamond, you always need a Base of Gold!
Often when we lose hope and think this is the end, GOD smiles from above and says, "Relax, sweetheart, it's just a bend, not the end!
When GOD solves your problems, you have faith in HIS abilities; when GOD doesn't solve your problems HE has faith in your abilities.
A blind person asked St. Anthony: "Can there be anything worse than losing eye sight?" He replied: "Yes, losing your vision!"
When you pray for others, God listens to you and blesses them, and sometimes, when you are safe and happy, remember that someone has prayed for you.
WORRYING does not take away tomorrow's TROUBLES, it takes away today's PEACE.

No July Newsletter

2011-06-01T20:25:00.000-05:00

There will be no newsletter in July because of Annual Conference and many people will be on vacation. Please send articles for the August Newsletter, however.

Regional Youth Conference

2011-06-01T20:22:00.000-05:00

Mother-in-Law of Pastor Succumbs in Pennsylvania

2011-06-01T20:21:00.001-05:00

Our deepest sympathy goes to the Freda Gordon family. Freda went to be with the Lord on May 22, 2011. She is the mother of Vonna Beach whose husband, Greg, pastors the Woodland Church of the Brethren in Astoria, Mrs. Gordon was 91. Her husband Raymond Gordon had ministered in several Churches of the Brethren in Pennsylvania. Pastor Gordon went to be with the Lord in 1985. Our condolences to Vonna and Greg Beach.

Calendar of Upcoming Events

2011-06-01T20:19:00.002-05:00

JUNE

3-5 - Camp Emmanuel Women's Camp
5-11 - Camp Emmanuel Sr Hi Youth Camp
12-18 - Camp Emmanuel Jr Hi Camp
17 - National Jr High Conference @ Elizabethtown College
19 - Father’s Day
21 - First Day of Summer
24-26 - Camp Emmaus CIT Training
25-26 - Camp Emmaus Elementary I Camp

JULY

2–6 - Annual Conference @ Grand Rapids, MI
8-9 - Camp Emmanuel Pre-Junior Camp
10-16 - Camp Emmanuel Junior Camp
10-16 - Camp Emmaus Sr Hi Youth Camp
17-23 - Camp Emmaus Jr Hi Youth Camp
23 - Leadership Team @ Peoria
24-29 - Camp Emmaus Elementary III Camp

AUGUST

2-5 - Camp Emmaus Elementary II Camp
5-7 - Camp Emmaus Women's Camp
12-14 - Camp Emmanuel Men's Camp
14 - Camp Emmanuel Board Meeting
20 - Program & Arrangements

SEPTEMBER

2–5 - Camp Emmanuel Family Camp
2-5 - Camp Emmaus Family Camp
5 - Labor Day
5 - NOAC, Lake Junaluska
11 - Grandparent’s Day
17 - Leadership Team @ Dixon
21 - International Day of Peace
29 - Rosh Hashanah

OCTOBER

2 - World Communion Sunday
8 - Yom Kippur
8 - Program & Arrangements
10 - Columbus Day
15 - Leadership Team @ Peoria
22 - Camp Emmanuel Fall Work Day

NOVEMBER

4–6 - District Conference, Lake Williamson
6 - Daylight Savings Time Ends
12 - Camp Emmanuel Board Meeting
12-13 - Regional Youth Conference @ Manchester College
18-19 - Leadership Team Retreat @ Camp Emmaus
24 - Thanksgiving
27 - First Sunday of Advent

DECEMBER

21 - Hanukkah
25 - Christmas
26 - Kwanzaa

The Reflector -- May 2011 -- Vol 8 Issue 5

2011-05-01T21:18:00.000-05:00

Fletcher Farrar, Bethany Commencement Speaker

2011-05-01T12:57:00.010-05:00

Bethany Theological Seminary Commencement speaker Fletcher Farrar, Moderator-elect of the Illinois-Wisconsin District, gave an address entitled “Nicodemus at Dawn,” based on the biblical texts of Isaiah 59:9-19 and John 3:1-10, at the academic ceremony. Farrar is the owner and editor of Illinois Times, a weekly newspaper in Springfield, Illinois, and the former editor of Messenger, the denominational magazine for the Church of the Brethren. Three members of the graduating class spoke at the afternoon service: Anna Lisa Gross, Kimberly Koczan Flory, and Larry Taylor. Their presentations were be based on the texts Proverbs 8:1-12 and Luke 1:76-79.

Ten students received master of divinity degrees, eight students received Master of Arts degrees, and two students received a certificate of achievement in theological studies.

On Saturday, May 7, Bethany Theological Seminary will celebrate her 106th commencement. Two observances will mark the occasion. A ceremony for conferring degrees took place in Bethany’s Nicarry Chapel, 615 National Road West, Richmond, at 10:00 am. A worship service, open to the public, was also held in Nicarry Chapel at 2:30 pm.

Disaster Ministries needs School Kits and Clean-up Buckets

2011-05-01T12:55:00.004-05:00

Banners For District Conference

2011-05-01T12:44:00.003-05:00

Moderator Lisa Fike and the Program and Arrangements Team are asking each fellowship/church to make a small banner using the conference theme “Joined with me and I with you” (taken from John 15:5 ) Or you can use your church theme or logo. Banners should be finished size 12 inches wide by 15 inches long and should include a means of hanging. They can be made of any material and can be any color. Please include your church name in some manner. These banners will serve as our back drop as we worship and do business. At the close of conference banners will be re-distributed. Each church will receive the banner of a sister church and are encouraged to hold this sister congregation in your prayers throughout the next year.

We please ask that you send the banners to the District Office or give to one of the members of the Program and Arrangements Committee by September 15, 2011.

DE Thoughts by Kevin Kessler

2011-05-01T12:38:00.014-05:00

The 4th of the 5 questions asked at district conference last fall and the responses follow:

What would you like to share with the District Leaders?

We need to do more to attract youth and younger people to our churches. Make some changes and modernize to attract this group. Help!
Help our churches to grow/strengthen programs.
My encouragement to be bold and make the tough decisions to bring about the changes needed to move forward in mission.
Hold on to Jesus and press on.

I’ve read a couple books over the past few months that provide some insight to these responses, one which I just recently finished entitled Born of Water, Born of Spirit: Supporting the Ministry of the Baptized in Small Congregations by Sheryl A. Kujawa-Holbrook and Fredrica Harris Thompsett, published in 2010 by Alban Institute. The focus of Born of Water... is that all the baptized are ministers. Familiar in Church of the Brethren circles is that we are all part of the priesthood of believers. However, I like the language of “ministry of the baptized” used in the subtitle of the book.

Baptism is a sign of an inner experience. It is also an ordination into ministry, not to the set-apart ministry, but to ministry in general. We become part of a mission, more familiarly called the church, where we enter into continuing the work of Jesus—together.

Remember the baptismal vows? We are asked to receive and trust Jesus as Lord and Savior, to turn away from sin and live according to the example and teachings of Jesus, and to be loyal to the church (the mission) by upholding it with our prayers, presence, substance, and service.

Baptism means we are engaged in ministry—all of us. Ministry is not a function of only those licensed and ordained, but ministry is a calling and activity of all.

Instead of thinking in terms of how to grow/strengthen programs in the church, I think the better question is how do we grow/strengthen discipleship among the baptized? What might the church look like, or how might the church be different today if we shift our focus away from trying the next best available program as the means to help us reach potential and instead begin concentrating on how each of us can become engaged in deeper discipleship efforts?

What do I mean? Well, take for instance response #1 above. The emphasis in the statement leans toward programming. What will attract youth to church? I think that is the wrong question, if I may be so blunt. I think the better question is, How can we be involved in the lives of youth to help provide a better life for them? Discipleship, in my humble opinion, is the way in which we become involved in the lives of others in order to bring about transformation, for them and for the world. It is about building relationships. Being involved in a genuine caring way is what will attract young, and old, to the church. Simply attracting youth or any age group with programs doesn’t say much about how we care for them. It may say something completely different.

It will take some bold moves, I think, to change the way we think and act. And it will take time. Kujawa-Holbrook and Thompsett state in their book that “it takes a congregation or judicatory at least seven years to make the paradigm shift” from one way of being to another. They also piggyback on Robert Quinn’s work about deep change which says that for paradigm shifts to happen, efforts to implement the change have to be given immediate and significant attention. Expecting incremental shifts is not enough. Claiming the need for change and getting busy is what it will take.

It will also take holding on to Jesus—for support, for wisdom, for strength, and for guidance. Holding on to Jesus will help us to press on. I also think that holding on to Jesus, if we “really” hold on, will require us to hang on for the ride which we’ll be on. Commitment to and following the example of Jesus, genuine discipleship, will have the air whistling through our hair. Imagine where this ride could take us?

Along the Paths of Camp Emmaus

2011-05-01T12:34:00.004-05:00

The completion date for the new pool project is June 1. The first Church of the Brethren camp to enjoy this new pool is Elementary I on June 25 – 26. The original pool was built in 1952 with thousands of swimmers enjoying it over the years. The pool provides a great marketing tool for the camp.

The cost for the renovation comes to $250,000 of which $100,000 still needs to be raised. Donations are welcome and can be made out to Camp Emmaus Pool Fund, Box 128, Mt. Morris, IL 61054.

April showers have wild flowers blooming at Camp Emmaus. A huge field of Shooting Stars surround the lodge. You can call the Mt. Morris Church of the Brethren who can contact one of the many fans of the camp who would be willing to lead a tour of the spring flowers growing all around the camp.

Camp clean up has been scheduled for June 15 – 22. Manager, Bill Hare, ordered 200 catfish to stock the lake for fishing. Come on out and bring your pole for a relaxing time in nature.

Registration forms have been sent to churches and we are hoping for a bumper crop of campers. Anyone registering for camp before June 10 will receive a free 2011 Camp Emmaus T-shirt. Grandparents, sending your grandchild to Camp Emmaus could just bo one of the most memorable and long lasting gifts you could give. See you at Camp…

Contributed by Diane Swingel.

Volunteers of All Ages Spruce Up Camp Emmanuel

2011-05-01T12:32:00.008-05:00

The week of April 16 -22 turned out rainy and cold but did not discourage the brave volunteers ages 10-83 from working hard to ready Camp Emmanuel for the camping season. The volunteers came from as far away as Mulberry Grove at the far southern end of Illinois and from as nearby as Astoria and Bader. They scrubbed the cabins and main lodge, washed windows, made curtains, set up picnic tables, cleaned out boats, cooked luscious meals for the volunteers and cleaned up the grounds.

This year’s big project was replacing the aging deck and railings on the camp’s suspension bridge. Jeremy Westlake, assistant pastor of the Woodland Church of the Brethren, designed the panels that would replace the old interlace method of bridge surfacing. The panels were built ahead of time by the new Camp Manager, Mike Siburt and volunteers John Renken of Washburn, Randy Buchanan of Decatur and Jeremy Westlake of Bader. The bridge volunteers worked daylight to dark and installed the approaches (the final pieces) on Thursday evening. We encourage everyone to come out and see the beautiful new bridge.

The Camp Board and managers wish to thank everyone who supports Camp Emmanuel with their time, prayers and donations. We’re looking forward to the camping season ahead.

For information on church camp dates or availability of Camp Emmanuel facilities phone Mike and Ruth Siburt at 302-329-2291 or visit the camp website at www.cob-net.org/camp/emmanuel/

Contributed by Ruth Siburt, Camp Co-manager.

Annual Conference

2011-05-01T12:28:00.002-05:00

July 1-6, Grand Rapids

Regional Youth Conference

2011-05-01T10:21:00.005-05:00

NOAC Bus to Lake Junaluska

2011-05-01T10:18:00.007-05:00

38th Annual Brethren Bible Institute

2011-05-01T10:17:00.007-05:00

Summer Term July 25-29, 2011
on the campus of Elizabethtown College, Elizabethtown, PA
Sponsored by: Brethren Revival Fellowship
Applications available at:
Brethren Bible Institute
155 Denver Road, Denver, PA 17517
Application process completed by: June 24, 2011

Pleasant Hill Village - Annual Work Day Planned

2011-05-01T10:15:00.008-05:00

Plans for a Fourth Annual Work Day at Pleasant Hill Village in Girard have been set for Saturday May 14th with a rain date of May 21st. Work begins at 8:00AM but latecomers will find plenty to do as well. Flower beds need cleaning, planting, weeding and mulching and raking rounds out much that requires helpful volunteers.

Please bring gloves and garden trowels to facilitate the work. A light lunch will be provided along with refreshments and fellowship throughout. Pleasant Hill Village is a Church of the Brethren ministry located within the IL/WI District and presents a good opportunity to be involved in Brethren ministry. A tour and history of mission at the Brethren Home of Girard will be offered after lunch.

To all who have assisted in the past, a hearty Thank-you for your dedication to serve. Please call and let us know how many may be coming – 217-627-2181 ask for Kyle Hood or Paulette Buch-Miller, or email us at phvil@royell.net.

Woodland Cantata “Come and See” Draws a Crowd

2011-05-01T10:00:00.009-05:00

More than 70 people gathered at Woodland Church of the Brethren on Sunday, April 17th at 7 p.m. to enjoy the Woodland Church’s Choir and Drama Troupe perform the cantata “Come and See.” Paul Sager coordinated the entire program. The drama cast consisted of: Kelly Westlake as the Blind Beggar, Marcia Weiss as the Widow, Ashley Weiss as the Widow’s Daughter, Assistant Pastor Jeremy Westlake as the Disciple Peter and Kevin Sager as Narrator.

Performing members of the Woodland Choir are: Pastor Greg Beach (soloist), Bo Peterman, Jim Miller, Mike Siburt, Paul Sager, Kevin Sager, Jason Westlake, Violet Wickert, Phyllis Batterton, JoEllen Doyle, Norma Miller, Vonna Beach and Ruth Siburt (soloist). Members who prepared but were unable to perform are: Susan Easley, Marilyn Miller and Isabelle Belville. Light and Sound Technicians are: Linda Mikulich and Ethan Mikulich.

Refreshments were served in the Fellowship Hall after the performance. A free will offering was taken. Woodland Church of the Brethren offers its sincere thanks to all who came out to see and hear the Good News of our Risen Savior.

Article submitted by Ruth Siburt.

2011 Pledged to Actual Comparison (unaudited) As of March 31, 2011

2011-05-01T09:45:00.099-05:00

Congregation	2010 Actual Contribution	2011 Annual Pledge	2011 YTD Actual	Difference	Paid %
Allison Prairie	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	--
Batavia Faith	$400.00	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	--
Canton	$1,800.00	$1,300.00	$700.00	($600.00)	53.8%
Cerro Gordo	$1,000.00	$1,000.00	$0.00	($1,000.00)	0.0%
Champaign	$1,200.00	$1,200.00	$0.00	($1,200.00)	0.0%
Cherry Grove	$500.00	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	--
Chicago First	$500.00	$500.00	$500.00	($500.00)	0.0%
Decatur	$500.00	$500.00	$500.00	($500.00)	0.0%
Dixon	$250.00	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	--
Douglas Park	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	--
Franklin Grove	$400.00	$900.00	$0.00	($900.00)	0.0%
Freeport	$500.00	$250.00	$0.00	($250.00)	0.0%
Girard	$250.00	$250.00	$0.00	($250.00)	0.0%
Highland Avenue	$15,141.00	$14,300.00	$3,785.25	($10,514.75)	26.5%
Hurricane Creek	$200.00	$200.00	$0.00	($200.00)	0.0%
La Place	$500.00	$500.00	$0.00	($500.00)	0.0%
Lanark	$2,654.08	$0.00	$408.32	$408.32	--
Martin Creek	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	--
Milledgeville	$1,200.00	$0.00	$600.00	$600.00	--
Mt. Morris	$1,876.00	$1,776.00	$0.00	($1,776.00)	0.0%
Naperville	$4,500.00	$5,500.00	$5,500.00	$0.00	100.0%
Neighborhood	$0.00	$1,000.00	$0.00	($1,000.00)	0.0%
Oak Grove	$150.00	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	--
Oakley Brick	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	--
Panther Creek	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	--
Peoria	$5,850.00	$5,850.00	$0.00	($5,850.00)	0.0%
Polo	$2,000.00	$2,000.00	$0.00	($2,000.00)	0.0%
Rock Community	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	--
Rockford	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	--
Romine	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	--
Springfield	$3,500.00	$3,500.00	$875.00	($2,625.00)	25.0%
Stanley	$300.00	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	--
Virden	$500.00	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	--
Walnut Grove	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	--
West Branch	$994.25	$740.25	$740.25	$0.00	100.0%
Woodland	$800.00	$800.00	$0.00	($800.00)	0.0%
Yellow Creek	$200.00	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	--
York Center	$8,500.00	$7,650.00	$2,762.50	($4,887.50)	36.1%
Totals	$56,165.33	$49,716.25	$15,371.32	($34,344.93)	30.9%

( This chart from numbers reported by District Financial Secretary, Christine Hoecker)
The end of March is 25% of the year-Thank you for your continued support of the District Ministry.

Mt. Morris Position Available

2011-05-01T09:36:00.002-05:00

Position Title: Half-time Outreach Ministry Coordinator

Position Open: May 1, 2011

Location: Mt. Morris, Illinois, Employer: Mt. Morris Church of the Brethren

Position Summary: This individual will be working with the Community Outreach Ministry Team of the Mt. Morris Church of the Brethren and serve as a liaison with the community developing outreach ministries and leading people to Christ.

Accountability: Works with and reports to the Community Outreach Team and is accountable to the Leadership Team of the church.

Community: Mt. Morris is a small community that has experienced the closing of businesses and major employers leaving in the past few years. The community has a thriving Food Pantry that is housed at the Church of the Brethren, with a gathering area that has become a comfortable meeting point.

Church community: The Mt. Morris Church of the Brethren has been in its current building since 1956. The church has been a vital part of the Mount Morris Community and supportive of the Church of the Brethren over the years.Outreach has become the primary focus as a means to transform the vitality of the congregation and offer the compassionate spirit of Jesus to the community.

Qualifications: Preference given to individuals with a minimum of 2 years of post-high school education or training in the field of religious studies or the ministry. The individual should be comfortable working one on one as well as with groups, with an engaging, positive personality. Experience in problem solving, leadership and program development.

Essential Functions: Build relationships within the target populations in the community. Research and determine priority needs in coordination with the Community Outreach Team, and communicate ways that the Congregation can assist in meeting some of those needs. Organize small groups for the purposes of support, encouragement and faith development. Encourage the values that are important to the Church of the Brethren, especially strong families, simple living, understandings of peace and justice, and the value of all human life. Help design short and long term goals for the project in cooperation with the Community Outreach Team and the Leadership Team of the church. Due to the nature of the position, it will be important to work during some non-traditional hours. This would include attending local, community events.

Salary Range: For a one year agreement the salary range for this exempt position is $15, 000 - $18,000. There are no benefits associated with this part-time position.

Application: Apply directly to the

Community Outreach Team
Mt. Morris Church of the Brethren
P.O. Box 2055
Mt. Morris, IL 61054-2055

Include resume, 3 reference letters and a faith statement. Apps. will be accepted until position is filled.

Calendar of Upcoming Events

2011-05-01T09:20:00.001-05:00

MAY

1 - National Youth Sunday
5 - National Day of Prayer
7 - Camp Emmanuel CIT Workshop
8 - Mother’s Day
13-15 Camp Emmanuel Young Adult Camp
14 - Leadership Team @ Franklin Grove
27-30 - Emmaus Family Camp
30 - Memorial Day

JUNE

3-5 - Camp Emmanuel Women's Camp
5-11 - Camp Emmanuel Sr Hi Youth Camp
12-18 - Camp Emmanuel Jr Hi Camp
17 - National Jr High Conference @ Elizabethtown College
19 - Father’s Day
21 - First Day of Summer
24-26 - Camp Emmaus CIT Training
25-26 - Camp Emmaus Elementary I Camp

JULY

2–6 - Annual Conference @ Grand Rapids, MI
8-9 - Camp Emmanuel Pre-Junior Camp
10-16 - Camp Emmanuel Junior Camp
10-16 - Camp Emmaus Sr Hi Youth Camp
17-23 - Camp Emmaus Jr Hi Youth Camp
23 - Leadership Team @ Peoria
24-29 - Camp Emmaus Elementary III Camp

AUGUST

2-5 - Camp Emmaus Elementary II Camp
5-7 - Camp Emmaus Women's Camp
12-14 - Camp Emmanuel Men's Camp
14 - Camp Emmanuel Board Meeting
20 - Program & Arrangements

SEPTEMBER

2–5 - Camp Emmanuel Family Camp
2-5 - Camp Emmaus Family Camp
5 - Labor Day
5 - NOAC, Lake Junaluska
11 - Grandparent’s Day
17 - Leadership Team @ Dixon
21 - International Day of Peace
29 - Rosh Hashanah

OCTOBER

2 - World Communion Sunday
8 - Yom Kippur
8 - Program & Arrangements
10 - Columbus Day
15 - Leadership Team @ Peoria
22 - Camp Emmanuel Fall Work Day

NOVEMBER

4–6 - District Conference, Lake Williamson
6 - Daylight Savings Time Ends
12 - Camp Emmanuel Board Meeting
18-19 - Leadership Team Retreat @ Camp Emmaus
24 - Thanksgiving
27 - First Sunday of Advent

DECEMBER

21 - Hanukkah
25 - Christmas
26 - Kwanzaa

The Reflector -- April 2011 -- Vol 8 Issue 4

2011-04-01T16:01:00.002-06:00

From the Moderator, Lisa Fike

2011-04-01T14:21:00.005-06:00

Bill and Gloria Gaither sing a song entitled “Resurrection” The words are something like this “Hang out the banner and shout the news, blow the trumpets and horns ‘till there is no one that has not heard, we needn’t die anymore. I’m here to tell you that Jesus lives and as he lives so shall we. Dying and fears have past away, swallowed in victory.” The second verse invites us to join in a “happy dance” in celebration of the risen King.

Brothers and sisters in Christ, as we celebrate this Easter may we join in the happy dance and show and share our joy. Through the “spring in our step” may others see Christ shining through us. As “we join in the song” may everyone hear Christ on our lips. Come on join the dance! When you think about it, with all the joy Father, Son and Holy Spirit bring us how can we sit still? Happy Resurrection Day! Lisa

Banners For District Conference

2011-04-01T14:10:00.000-06:00

Moderator Lisa Fike and the Program and Arrangements Team are asking each fellowship/church to make a small banner using the conference theme “Joined with me and I with you” taken from John 15:5 ) Or you can use your church theme or logo. Banners should be finished size 12 inches wide by 15 inches long and should include a means of hanging. They can be made of any material and can be any color. Please include your church name in some manner. These banners will serve as our back drop as we worship and do business. At the close of conference banners will be re-distributed. Each church will receive the banner of a sister church and are encouraged to hold this sister congregation in your prayers throughout the next year.

We please ask that you send the banners to the District Office or give to one of the members of the Program and Arrangements Committee by September 15, 2011.