The Reflector - May 2025
Thursday, May 01, 2025
The Village ILWIDIot
Walt Wiltschek
“Make an effort to preserve the unity of the Spirit with the peace that ties you together.” —Eph. 4:3, CEB
A few months ago I read a book titled “The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates.” In a bit of worlds colliding, it happened to be a book assigned to students by the English department at the local high school where I’m currently working, but it was written by the now-governor of my former state of Maryland, Wes Moore.
In the book, he unspools the parallel tracks of two men named Wes Moore who grew up in Baltimore. One, the author, is now a governor. The other is a convicted murderer in prison. He talks about various experiences that diverged their paths (mentors, grandparents, educational opportunities), but one that stuck with me occurred while he was doing an internship in South Africa as a young adult. Talking with a woman whose husband had been arrested and beaten during the apartheid era, he asked her, “How are you now able to forgive? … How are you so able to move on?”
Her answer was deceptively simple: “Because Mr. Mandela asked us to.” As he reflected on this, Moore wrote: “Her simple and profound answer helped me to understand that ubuntu (a Bantu-Xhosa word describing a sense of human interconnectedness) was not simply a word. It was a way of life. … The common bond of humanity and decency that we share is stronger than any conflict, any adversity, any challenge. Fighting for your convictions is important. But finding peace is paramount. Knowing when to fight and when to seek peace is wisdom.”
Much that is happening in the world right now might stir us to fight, to push back, to make noise. There are certainly places where it is appropriate to do so. But in that righteous anger, it’s also important that we do not lose our humanity and our sense of interconnectedness with one another.
On a smaller scale, a similar dynamic is playing out within the church. As denominational staff member Stan Dueck led our clergy gathering recently (see more below), he described all the significant shifts taking place for the church and the fear and conflict those shifts can generate. We might need to push back on some trends, but we might also need to adapt and acknowledge our vulnerable places. The faith communities that succeed in this reality will keep core values, but they will also demonstrate flexibility, curiosity, and willingness to reimagine— putting people and vision ahead of buildings, programs, or church politics.
To paraphrase Wes Moore, knowing when to hold firm and when to open up to the Spirit’s scary new possibilities is wisdom. Through it all, our own ubuntu—our interconnectedness with each other and our neighborhoods through Christ—can hold us together, even when it might feel that so much around us is falling apart.
DISTRICT EXECUTIVE SCHEDULE
In addition to regular meetings, Walt will be officiating a wedding in Wisconsin May 17 and visiting with the Madtown Brethren in Madison May 18, meeting at Camp Emmaus May 24, and visiting and meeting at Mount Morris May 25. Walt will be on vacation June 4-10.
Walt is available to visit your church, do pulpit supply, lead sessions, have conversation times, or otherwise connect with your congregation. Please contact IWDDE@outlook.com to schedule a time. He is half-time and is usually on district duty late afternoons/evenings on weekdays plus weekends.
UPCOMING MEETINGS & EVENTS
Church Revitalization and Development Team, May 17, 9 a.m.
Young Adult Conference, May 23-25, Brethren Woods, Keezletown, Va.
Leadership Team, June 3, 6:30 p.m.
Gifts Discernment and Call Committee, June 10, 7:15 p.m.
Annual Conference briefing with moderator Dava Hensley, June 14, 10 a.m.
Ministry Leadership Development Team, June 18, 6:30 p.m.
Program & Arrangements Committee, June 19, 7 p.m.
National Junior High Conference, June 20-22, Juniata College, Huntingdon, Pa.
Church of the Brethren Annual Conference, July 2-6, Greensboro, N.C.
National Older Adult Conference, Sept. 1-5, Lake Junaluska, N.C.
[all meetings via Zoom unless otherwise noted]
IN OUR PRAYERS
A district prayer calendar has been created for your use in praying for our district and related programs through the year. We invite you to include the following in your prayers in coming weeks:
Week of May 11: Pray for the Oakley Brick congregation this week, and for the denomination’s work in mission, outreach, and evangelism.
Week of May 18: Pray for the district’s Program and Arrangements Committee as it works on plans for district conference, and for the denominational Young Adult Conference taking place May 23-25 at Brethren Woods in Virginia.
Week of May 25: Pray for all the historic cemeteries maintained by our congregations, such as Coal Creek near Canton and the Emmert Cemetery of the former Franklin Grove church, as they continue to provide places for remembering and reflection.
Week of June 1: Pray for the Martin Creek congregation, and for the “FaithX” service trips that
will take youth and others to a variety of locations to serve this summer.
Week of June 8: Pray for Camp Emmanuel in Astoria as it welcomes the community for another season, for all the children and youth coming there this summer, and for managers Don and Kelly Davis (Woodland).
Week of June 15: Pray for the Woodland congregation, and be in prayer for the National Junior High Conference being held June 20-22 at Juniata College in Pennsylvania—and for all the youth of our district.
Thank you to everyone who has been praying for Dennis and Van Metzger, formerly of the Springfield First congregation and now at Timbercrest Retirement Community in North Manchester, Indiana. Jocelyn Watkins (Peoria First), their daughter—and our district moderator-elect—provided the following update in late April:
Dear Friends, Thank you for your prayers and support for my parents, Dennis and Van Metzger. I’m happy to share that my dad, Dennis, has regained strength and is now back home at Timbercrest with my mom. We are incredibly grateful for his continued recovery and for the care, encouragement, and prayers we have received from this community. With heartfelt thanks, Jocelyn Watkins
Thank you for your prayers! For anyone wanting to send a card, they are at: Dennis and Van Metzger, P.O. Box 501, North Manchester, IN 46962.
MINISTRY NEWS
Larry Traxler has announced his retirement as pastor of the Cerro Gordo congregation, effective Aug. 10. District executive minister Walt Wiltschek held an initial meeting with the congregation May 4. Plans are under way to complete a congregational profile and form a search committee.
Rodney Caldwell has announced his retirement as pastor of the Mount Morris congregation, effective in mid-August. Initial conversations have begun on next steps. Rodney for now plans to continue his service as part-time chaplain for the Allure of Pinecrest retirement community in Mount Morris.
All ministers should begin gathering information for their CEU report, which will be due by the end of this summer as part of the every-five-years ordination renewal process. Copies of the continuing education report form can be found at www.brethren.org/ministryoffice/forms. The district Ministry Leadership Development Team (MLDT) will be completing document reviews and renewals for all credentialed ministers in the district later this year. Congregations are currently completing their part of the renewal documents for any credentialed ministers (active or retired) who are members there. Ministers who have not yet done the ethics training this cycle will need to complete the training this summer or fall. Please contact the district office with any questions.
In response to concerns raised related to potential detention and deportation among members of the Church of the Brethren, a group of church districts with numerous multicultural congregations is working cooperatively to provide resourcing and support to affected congregations and to the whole church. This new ministry is offering resources and relational/pastoral support. Support of those congregations has begun, and the ministry hopes to share more resources for members and congregations looking to grow in discipleship and support around immigration broadly in the months ahead. An initial commitment from these districts of $100,000 is launching this ministry initiative. Additional financial support is welcome to help sustain the program. If your congregation has a special interest in this work or need assistance, please contact Beth Sollenberger at atlanticsoutheastcob@gmail.com as the point of contact to access support or to contribute.
The denomination’s Part-Time Pastor, Full-Time Church program will offer an equipping session and a meal event at this summer’s Church of the Brethren Annual Conference in Greensboro, N.C. The equipping session, “Leadership in a Multi-Vocational Reality,” will be 12:30-1:30 p.m. July 4, featuring presenter Bill Ludwig. The dinner, 5:30 p.m. July 5, is titled “Rooted in Jesus: Living Into God’s Calling for Your Ministry,” featuring pastors/church planters Macho and Erica Lara as speakers.
This year’s pre-Annual Conference Ministers’ Association continuing education event will focus on the theme “A Place for Every Body: Disability, Accessibility, and the Church.” The conference will be presented by Jeanne Davies (York Center), executive director of the Anabaptist Disabilities Network, who will offer sessions on “What Disables Us?,” “Creating Accessible Congregations,” and “Accessible Worship.” Registration opened March 5. Plan to arrive on Tuesday, July 1, in time for the Meet and Greet dinner and the opening session that evening. The Wednesday, July 2, sessions conclude at 4 p.m. Find the registration link and flyer at www.brethren.org/ministryoffice/sustaining/#event.
Congregational vacancies:
Cerro Gordo: Larry Traxler is retiring effective Aug. 10. Plans are under way to complete a congregational profile and form a search committee.
Dutchtown (Milledgeville): Ed Livengood is serving as an internal preacher and providing pastoral care. Ed is pursuing a call to ministry and has recently entered the licensing discernment process, with Rick Koch serving as district mentor.
Highland Avenue (Elgin): Krista Dutt (Chicago First) began serving as interim pastor on April 1. Krista completed her M.Div. at Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary and plans to go through the credentialing process in our district. The congregation is working on a congregational profile and calling a search committee.
Lanark: The congregational profile is circulating, and the search committee has begun doing interviews. The congregation is using pulpit supply this spring.
Mount Morris: Rodney Caldwell has announced his retirement effective in mid-August.
Woodland: Local pastor Mathew Thiner is serving as an interim preacher and providing some pastoral care. Woodland member Kevin Sager is also helping to provide interim leadership, aided by a congregational team.
York Center (Lombard): A congregational profile has been published, and the search committee has begun doing interviews. Jonathan Shively and Tony Asta are serving as an interim pastoral team and recently extended their contract through Sept. 30.
CONGREGATIONAL/LOCAL NEWS
The historic Kurtz organ will be played in a rare concert on Sunday, May 18 (note date change), at 4 p.m. in the chapel at the Church of the Brethren General Offices at 1451 Dundee Ave. in Elgin. The small, hand-pumped pipe organ, which is part of the Brethren Historical Library and Archives (BHLA) collection, is more than 320 years old. This is a very rare public appearance of the organ, which in recent decades has been played in concert only a handful of times. The concert is part of the Great Elgin Pipe Organ Tour 2024-2025 organized and led by Jeff Neufeld, music director and organist at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Elgin, with support from guest musicians. To attend the May 18 concert, park in the rear lot of the General Offices and enter the building through the staff/kitchen entrance. For more information about the tour see https://fcc-elgin.org/organ-tour.
Freeport will hold its June 29 worship service at Camp Emmaus at 11:30 a.m., followed by a potluck picnic. Area Church of the Brethren members are welcome to attend. For questions, contact Wendy Boettner at peaceandjoy.1954@gmail.com. And on Sept. 7, Freeport is celebrating its 105th anniversary as a congregation. Worship and reminiscing will be at 10 a.m., followed by lunch. RSVP to 815-232-1938.
Mount Morris is considering an offer for the purchase of its building, which has been on the market for more than a year. If it comes together, the still-healthy congregation plans to continue, in rented or smaller space, but without the strain and expense of caring for the large property. A congregational business meeting to discuss the proposal will take place later this month.
Chicago First will hold its May 18 worship at Chicago’s new National Public Housing Museum, with reservations for an 11:15 a.m. entry. The new museum is located near the University of Illinois at Chicago. Chicago First members John and Joyce Cassel (pictured) also recently met with US Rep. Danny Davis in Washington, D.C. Davis has longstanding connections with members of the congregation.
Peoria First collected nearly 323 pounds of donations during its March “Can-a-Thon,” a significant jump over the previous year’s total. It also through April had raised $820 for its Adopt-a-Project campaign to support special projects at the Henderson Settlement “Mountain Mission” project in Kentucky.
Cerro Gordo will hold its annual Strawberry Festival on June 1, 4-6 p.m.
York Center (Lombard) will host a presentation by professor Rebekah Levin at 7 p.m. this Thursday, May 15. Titled “From Zionist to Human Rights Advocate: My Journey as a Jew,” the presentation is open to all. Levin received her PhD in policy research and administration from the University of Chicago. As a research professor at University of Illinois at Chicago, she directed CIR, an applied research center focused on social and economic justice in Chicago. Most recently retired from her position as Director of Evaluation from a major Chicago foundation, Rebekah is a member of Tzedek Chicago, an intentional Jewish congregation based on core values of justice, equity and solidarity that emphasizes the Torah’s central narrative of liberation and the prophetic imperative to speak truth to power. Previously, Rebekah was a teacher and music leader at Oak Park Temple, West Suburban Temple, and the Secular Jewish Community. For more information, please contact Cindy Weber at 630-399-0397.
Bill Hare (Polo) continues his efforts to provide food for communities in need in southern Honduras. He is currently gathering monetary donations to obtain a supply of corn. Donations to the Honduras Mission Fund can be mailed to Bill at 408 S. McKendrie, #144, Mt. Morris, IL 61054.
Ecumenism Metro Chicago (EMC) will be part of a Pentecost Sunday event marking the 1700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed at 3 p.m. June 8 at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Chicago (1017 N. LaSalle Dr.). Titled “Ecumenical Prayer to Commemorate the Mystery of Creation in Christ,” the event is open to all as a display of Christian unity. Illinois/Wisconsin District’s ECM representative, Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford (Highland Avenue), will be representing the district at the event.
Girard Area Homes is seeking two Brethren members to serve on its seven-member board, overseeing the business of the senior low-income housing units. The board meets quarterly, and the winter meeting is via Zoom. If interested, contact Terry Link at 217-494-3850.
Camp Mack (Milford, Ind.) will hold its centennial celebration on Aug. 10. Learn more at www.campmack.org/100.
Congregations are invited to apply for a Global Food Initiative (GFI) grant to support efforts to address domestic hunger and homelessness. In the past, GFI grants have supported congregation-based garden projects, soup kitchens, food pantries, and more. If you have an idea and would like to discuss it or apply for a grant, please contact GFI manager Jenn Hosler by email at jhosler@brethren.org. GFI grant application forms are provided on request, via email.
Do you have congregational news: celebrations, milestones, “Jesus in the Neighborhood” stories or other things to share with our district family? Please send them to iwdde@outlook.com.
CONGREGATIONAL REFLECTION
Among them (John 20:19)
Chicago First Church of the Brethren is in a neighborhood that many people consider to be unsafe. There are a lot of locked doors in East Garfield Park.
But First Church has been a presence (and at our best, an open and welcoming one) in this neighborhood for one hundred years.
We have strived to “cultivate love, peace, and justice in East Garfield Park, Chicago, and beyond,” as our vision statement goes. In the midst of empty lots, our church garden offers a place of respite, beautiful native plants, and tasty fresh veggies. Our building hosts two other congregations for worship and church life, as well as an arts group led by Black women. Not so long ago, hundreds of young people came through the doors every year, young Chicagoans taking part in after-school programming, and out-of-town youth groups visiting to learn more about the city.
On a recent spring Sunday, we noticed with delight that Chris, Sonji, and John were all wearing yellow, and Danielle snapped a photo of these brilliant folks on the church steps. These smiling faces are wonderfully representative of this small but mighty congregation striving to follow Jesus. In a city that, for many, is synonymous with violence, we are working to bring God's peace to the neighborhood, the city, and the world.
—Heidi Gross Chicago, Illinois
"When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors were locked where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, 'Peace be with you'" (John 20:19, NRSVue). Today's Bible readings from the lectionary: Acts 5:27-32; Psalm 118:14-29 or Psalm 150; Revelation 1:4-8; John 20:19-31.
April 27, 2025. Photo © Danielle Williams. Used by permission. Living Word Bulletin Series © 2025 Brethren Press. Printed in the USA.
DISTRICT CLERGY GATHERING REPORT
Fifteen people came together for this year’s district clergy gathering, held May 1-2 at Bishop Lane Retreat Center near Rockford and sponsored by the district’s Ministry Leadership Development Team. Stan Dueck, director of organizational leadership for the Church of the Brethren, served as keynote speaker on the topic “Ministry in a BANI* World” (*Brittle, Anxious, Non- linear, and Incomprehensible), looking at the tectonic shifts that have taken place in the church landscape and what that means for ministry.
Stan led three sessions over the course of the 24-hour event. “Our churches are in a culture, expanding and changing,” he said, noting that the fast pace of change brings anxiety and even a sense of trauma for many. Letting go can mean a fear of “losing memory” and traditions that hold meaning. “Family”-size churches, which encompass most of the congregations in the Church of the Brethren, and almost all in this district, are most affected, he said.
He pointed to a sense of discipleship that occurs at “the intersection of worship, scripture, and world” and “can (re)frame our social imagination” as a path forward. That can require recognizing and even embracing the “BANI” realities in the midst of the church, sometimes doing the opposite of what we have assumed to be true and letting go of cognitive biases.
Rodney Caldwell and Randall Westfall led worship during the event, and participants also enjoyed good food from the retreat center, time for fellowship, and opportunities to wander the spacious and peaceful grounds.
The next district CEU opportunity will take place Friday, Nov. 7, in Bloomington, Ill., prior to district conference.
DISTRICT CONFERENCE 2025
The 2025 Illinois/Wisconsin District conference will take place Nov. 7-8 at The Chateau Hotel & Conference Center in Bloomington, Ill. Bill Williams (Yellow Creek) will serve as moderator, with the theme “Are You Being Called?” Jocelyn Watkins (Peoria First) serves as moderator-elect.
A continuing education event will be offered for clergy and others during the day on Friday, Nov. 7, with the main conference starting with worship Friday evening in the Smart Auditorium and continuing with business and equipping sessions in that space on Saturday, along with meals, exhibits, and other events in an adjacent ballroom. The spaces are handicapped-accessible, and ample parking is available. Cerro Gordo and perhaps other area congregations will help to “host” the conference. Peoria First members are working on worship center plans.
All congregations are encouraged to send their allotted delegates to the conference. Per the 2022 constitution revisions, each congregation of 100 or fewer members can send three delegates, with one additional delegate for every 100 members or portion thereof. The pastor (if any) and board/leadership team chair typically serve as delegates, along with at-large members called by the congregation. The district Program & Arrangements Committee recently voted to increase the district conference assessment to cover costs; it will now be $30 per allotted delegate. Non-delegate registration will also increase slightly, to $15 per person. A block of rooms will be available at the hotel (located just off Veterans Parkway in Bloomington) for Thursday and Friday nights for $99/night including breakfast.
More details will be coming in the months ahead, with registration opening in late summer or early fall. We hope that you and other members of your congregation will join us for this important time in the life of our district!
CAMP NEWS
Registration for the Camp Emmaus 2025 summer season is open at campemmaus.churchcenter.com/registrations. A discounted price is available for those who register before June 1.
The annual Camp Clean-Up Day will be May 31. The summer schedule will include the following offerings:
May 23-26 Memorial Day Family Camp
June 20-22 CIT Training
June 21-22 Elementary (K-Grade 2)
July 6-12 Survivor Camp at Camp Mack (Grades 6-8)
July 13-19 Senior High (Grades 9-12)
July 20-26 Middle School (Grades 6-8)
July 27-31 Intermediate (Grades 3-5)
Aug. 1-3 Young Adult/Young at Heart (Ages 18+)
Aug. 3-6 Target Sports Camp
Aug. 7-9 Women’s Camp
Aug. 22-24 Men’s Camp
Aug. 29-Sept. 1 Labor Day Family Camp
Sept. 13 Camp Celebration Day and Lunch
The next “Escape to Emmaus” day will be June 7, focusing on wood carving. Watch the camp website for details: www.campemmaus.org.
Camp Emmanuel is expanding its programming with the purchase of two tandem and two single kayaks. Donations toward the project can be made at Campem.com or by mailing a check to Camp Emmanuel, 14999 Reservoir Rd, Browning, IL 62624. Mark the gift as “Kayaks.”
Registration for the summer season at Camp Emmanuel is also now open! Visit www.campem.com to register, and for other camp news. The camp opened to the public May 1 for fishing and hiking, etc. The summer schedule will include:
May 30-June 1 Women’s Camp
June 5-8 High School Camp
June 8-14 Middle School Camp
June 15-19 Junior Camp
July 14-18 Day Camp
July 18-20 Creation Camp
Aug. 8-10 Men’s Camp
Aug. 29-Sept. 1 Family Camp
Camp Emmanuel is looking for paid lifeguards for the 2025 camp season. If you are interested in becoming a lifeguard, Camp Emmanuel will pay for your training if you agree to work here for at least one camping season. Contact camp managers Don & Kelly Davis for more information.
YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS
Young Adult Conference is planned for May 23-25, at Brethren Woods near Keezletown, Va. The annual event offers people ages 18-35 a chance to enjoy fellowship, worship, recreation, Bible study, service projects, and more. See www.brethren.org/yya/yac.
National Junior High Conference takes place June 20-22 at Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa., with the theme “Let Your Gentleness Be Known.” Join other junior high youth and adult advisors for a weekend packed with powerful worship, fun workshops, music, recreation, and more. Registration and details are at www.brethren.org/yya/njhc.
National Youth Conference 2026 will take place July 18-23, 2026, with a return to the site that the conference used in 1990 and prior years: the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colo. More information will come in the months ahead at National Youth Conference.
(Also be in prayer for the FaithX service trips headed across the US and to Africa this summer!)
DISASTER RESPONSE
Brethren Disaster Ministries (BDM) has directed grants from the Church of the Brethren’s Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF) to fund planning for increased humanitarian needs in South Sudan; an aid program by l’Eglise des Freres au Congo (Church of the Brethren in the DR Congo) for displaced families and refugees in Burundi who have fled the M23 violence; and purchase of medicines and medical equipment for hospitals and clinics serving Palestinians displaced in Gaza City due to the Israel-Hamas war.
In the US, BDM is also continuing work this year at a rebuilding site in Letcher County, Ky. Information is at: www.brethren.org/bdm/rebuild/schedules. Illinois/Wisconsin is scheduled to assist with a team Dec. 7-13. A YouTube video about the Letcher County site is at https://youtu.be/gmKy5PDf4PE. A second project site is expected to open later this year.
NEW & RENEW 2025
The New & Renew Conference that had been scheduled for May 14-16 at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., has been cancelled. Anyone who had already registered will receive a full refund. Watch for updates on additional opportunities in the future at www.brethren.org/newandrenew.
NATIONAL OLDER ADULT CONFERENCE
The next National Older Adult Conference (NOAC) will be held Sept. 1-5, at Lake Junaluska, N.C., with the theme “Alive in the Spirit!” (from Romans 15:13). Registration opened May 1 at www.brethren.org/noac. Registration fees are $220 for early-bird registration (May 1 to July 20), or $250 for regular registration. First- time attendees receive a $20 discount. A virtual participation registration option is available for $150 per household.
The vibrant week includes worship, keynote sessions, workshops, service projects, field trips, ice cream socials, and more. NOAC has announced this year’s keynote speakers: writer and poet Cole Arthur Riley; musician and storyteller Ken Medema; playwright and actor Ted Swartz; and Dominique DuBois Gilliard, director of Racial Righteousness and Reconciliation for the Evangelical Covenant Church. Preachers include Greg Davidson Laszakovits, Rebecca Dali, Herb Smith, Samuel Sarpiya, and Audri Svay.
While our district will not have transportation to the event, the Western Plains District will have a bus passing through southern Illinois that might be able to accommodate additional passengers ($450 round-trip from Kansas). If interested, please contact Monica Frye at 620-241- 0919 x264 or mfrye@thecedars.org.
The planning team includes Heidi Berkenbosch, Deanna Brown, Bonnie Kline Smeltzer, Leonard Matheny (Peoria First), Don Mitchell, Karlene Tyler, and coordinator Christy Waltersdorff (York Center). Debbie Noffsinger (Highland Avenue) designed the NOAC 2025 logo. Registration information and other details will be coming out soon.
ANNUAL CONFERENCE BRIEFING
The time will include a brief welcome and opening, sharing from Sister Dava and the Annual Conference Standing Committee, the Annual Conference preview video, and time for questions and answers.
Join the event at https://zoom.us/j/93620012185?pwd=0VbSSmG2Oy9EIaYIKKL3DUd88Wdvni.1. If you need information to call in to the meeting by phone, please contact the district office. Mark your calendars and plan to join us for an informative morning!
ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2025
The 2025 Church of the Brethren Annual Conference will take place Wednesday, July 2, to Sunday, July 6, at the Koury Convention Center in Greensboro, North Carolina. Registration and hotel reservations are open at www.brethren.org/ac2025. The Annual Conference office has announced the following registration fee schedule:
For advance registration (March 5-June 10): Delegates $350; Non-delegate adult, full conference, $175; Non-delegate adult, daily rate, $60; Post-high school to age 21, full conference, $50; Post-high school to age 21, daily rate, $20; Current high school student or younger, free; Active BVSer, free.
For on-site registration (opens July 1): Delegates $425; Non-delegate adult, full conference, $210; Non-delegate adult, daily rate, $75; Post-high school to age 21, full conference, $50; Post- high school to age 21, daily rate, $20; Current high school student or younger, free; Active BVSer, free. Note there is an additional fee for age-group activities.
Registration for virtual participation (non-delegate only): Adult (until June 10), full conference, $195 or daily rate, $75. Group/institutional registration, $500; Post-high school to age 21, full conference, $75. Worship services are available free of charge.
Pastors Dennis Beckner (Columbia City, Ind.) and Glenn Bollinger (Port Republic, Va.) headline this year’s Annual Conference ballot as candidates for moderator-elect. Find the full ballot at www.brethren.org/ac2025/business/ballot. Worship preachers this year will be moderator Dava Hensley; a “cowbell service” featuring preachers Becky Baile Crouse, Josiah Ludwick, and Tony Price; Mount Hermon Church of the Brethren pastor Lupita Ortiz; Garrett- Evangelical Theological Seminary professor Gennifer Brooks; and South Waterloo Church of the Brethren pastor Dave Kerkove.
Business items will include three items of unfinished business and four items of new business, including the query “Concerns About Current Practices Related to Matters of Sexuality” brought by this district.
To date, the following congregations have registered delegates: Canton, Dixon, Freeport, Peoria First, Polo, and York Center. Please consider sending a delegate from your congregation. Congregations of up to 200 members receive one delegate, with one additional delegate for every additional 200 members or portion thereof. Delegate and non-delegate registration can be found at www.brethren.org/ac2025 (click “Registration”). A guide to registering online is available if needed.
Lodging: the Sheraton Greensboro at Four Seasons is connected to the Koury Convention Center, making it extremely convenient for guests. The Annual Conference room rate is $120 plus tax (12.75%) totaling $135.30 per night. Parking is complimentary. The Sheraton Hotel provides complimentary shuttle transportation to and from Piedmont Triad International Airport from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. In room Wi-Fi is complimentary for all hotel guests. The link for hotel registration will come up immediately after registering for the conference.
New this year will be a conference welcome meal, beginning 5 p.m. July 2 at the hotel’s Joseph’s Restaurant. The dinner buffet will be $19.95 for adults, $14.95 for 12 and under. No reservations are required, and attendees will pay onsite.
The Annual Conference Witness to the Host City this year is benefiting BackPack Beginnings, a nonprofit dedicated to making a difference for local, low-income children and families by providing for their tangible basic needs. Their mission is to connect children and their families to resources needed to thrive. For a list of items to be collected at Annual Conference see www.brethren.org/ac2025/activities/witness-to-the-host-city. Monetary contributions can be made by check during the Friday night worship offering or on the Annual Conference website offering page. To learn more about BackPack Beginnings visit https://backpackbeginnings.org.
Ushers needed: From usher coordinator David Ansley: “During worship we need volunteer ushers to help receive offerings and record attendance. While an important role in our worship services, ushering requires very little time and does not take away from participating in the rest of the worship service. You will be able to sign up when registering for Annual Conference and at the usher table when you arrive and check in for the conference, however I would like to have our first service covered on Wednesday night, before the conference begins. Once you have registered for conference, please follow the links to sign up to volunteer as an usher. You can also reach out to me directly at davidansley704@gmail.com and let me know if you are willing to serve on Wednesday evening, or for any of the other worship services. Please use ‘AC usher’ in the subject line. Feel free to contact me via text or call at 540-314-8146.”
Silent auction: The Program and Arrangements Committee is once again holding a silent auction at Annual Conference this summer. Congregations and individuals can help by contributing an item for the auction in one of three categories: 1. Arts and Craft Items (quality and unique hand-made items like woodworking, pottery, fabric art, paintings or drawings, stained glass, etc.); 2. Gift Baskets (could be assembled around a theme, organizational “swag”, books, regional products, food, and so on. Be creative.; 3. Experiences (tickets to events, use of vacation homes, trips, classes, a living room concert, etc.). Items being donated must be registered in advance. NO UNREGISTERED ITEMS WILL BE ACCEPTED ONSITE THIS YEAR. To register a donation, go to to https://cobrethren.wufoo.com/forms/ac-2025-silent-auction-donation-form to submit contact information and a description of the item you wish to contribute. ONLINE SUBMISSIONS MUST BE RECEIVED BY JUNE 1. Actual items must be onsite at Annual Conference no later than 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 2. Arrangements can be made to ship them to the Annual Conference office in advance if you are not planning to attend Annual Conference. Volunteers to assist with the auction are also needed. To volunteer, sign up at www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0945AFA722A4FCCF8-annual. And, of course, bid at Annual Conference! Bidding opens at noon July 2 and closes at 2 p.m. July 5.
EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
• Upcoming courses from the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership include “A Place for Everybody,” a directed independent study done in conjunction with the Ministers’ Association pre-Annual Conference event, July 1-2, led by Audrey Hollenberg-Duffey (registration deadline May 20); “Leadership and Administration for the Now and Future Church,” online Aug. 13-Oct. 7, led by Audrey Hollenberg-Duffey (registration deadline July 9); and “Minister as Theologian,” online Sept. 3-Oct. 28, led by Joelle Hathaway (registration deadline July 23). Register and pay online at Brethren Academy Course Registration/Biannual TRIM Payment | Bethany Theological Seminary (bethanyseminary.edu).
• Upcoming Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center (SVMC) continuing education courses include “Supporting Congregational Members Following Divorce,” led by Julie Guistwite, June 3, 8:30- 11:30 a.m. Central, via Zoom, cost $35; “The Shape of Ministry in a High-Tech World,” led by Dan Poole, Sept. 15, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Central, via Zoom, cost $45; and “Caring for Congregational Members at the End-of-Life,” led by Julie Guistwite, Oct. 7, 8:30-11:30 a.m. Central, cost $35. Course prices are $10 less without CEU’s. Register by visiting the SVMC course page or by contacting Karen Hodges at karenhodges@svmccob.org.
• Lombard Mennonite Peace Center offers a variety of training sessions. Upcoming options include “Peaceful, Productive Pastor-Parish Partnerships,” June 4 or Aug. 20 via Zoom; “Strengthening the Body of Christ,” Sept. 16 via Zoom; “Restorative Conversations,” Sept. 17 or Dec. 10 via Zoom; and “Conflict Transformation Skills,” July 23 and Sept. 11 via Zoom. The Mediation Skills Training Institute will be held in person in Glen Ellyn, Ill., Aug. 11-15 or Sept. 29- Oct. 3 (or June 16-20 online). For details and registration information, go to www.lmpeacecenter.org/trainings.
• 2025 New Community Project Learning Tours: Go. Meet. Learn. Grow. Change yourself—and your world. These trips will take participants of all ages to: the Ecuadorian Amazon in early June; Lybrook, N.M. in late June; and Denali/Kenai Fjords National Parks in early August. For more information visit www.newcommunityproject.info/learning-tours or contact dradcliffncp@yahoo.com or 540-855-1199.
• Designed particularly for ministers new to the Church of the Brethren denomination, Bethany Theological Seminary’s new certificate of achievement in ministry studies (CAMS) includes six courses that focus on Brethren history and theology, practical experience with the ordinances and preaching of the church, biblical interpretation, and peace studies. The certificate can be completed in two years or even one year, depending on course offerings. Five of the six courses can be completed at a distance. For more information go to https://bethanyseminary.edu.
PERSONNEL NOTES
Stan Dueck will retire as Director of Organizational Leadership for the Church of the Brethren, effective July 31. He began his service on June 21, 1999, as the Congregational Life Team Member for Area 1. Over the years, Stan has coached pastors, consulted with congregations, helped districts plan and develop goals, led deacon training seminars and served in numerous other ways. He convened the New Church Advisory Committee and planned the New and Renew conference multiple times. As a life-long learner, Stan has always been committed to professional growth and expanding his skills with which he serves the church. Most recently, Stan completed Kingian Nonviolence Trainer certification. The denomination is grateful to Stan for his contributions to more than 25 years of service to the denomination.
Tabitha Rudy joined the staff of the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership (BAML) as part-time Coordinator of English-Language Ministry Training Programs on May 1. Rudy has served the Church of the Brethren in a variety of capacities including as pastor, associate district executive, and teacher. Most recently, Rudy has served as the administrative assistant for the Part-time Pastor, Full-time Church program, a position she will continue alongside her work with BAML. Rudy and her spouse, Daniel, are also parents of two young daughters and make their home in Boones Mill, Virginia.
Due to budget cuts within the Mission and Ministry Board, Mishael Nouveau, office manager for the denomination’s Ministry office, will have her work hours reduced from full-time to part- time, effective June 30.
JOB OPENINGS
Anabaptist Disabilities Network (ADN) is seeking a Communications Director. The Communications Director leads the public communications activities of ADN, including primary responsibility for all print and electronic communications. Candidates should have excellent writing, communication, and organizational skills and be proficient in Microsoft Word, Facebook and Instagram. Knowledge of other software applications is beneficial. Understanding of Anabaptist beliefs and practices and experience with disability (personally or professionally) is preferred, as is an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. This is a half-time, salaried position. For more information, please see the position description. To apply, please email resume’ and cover letter, including three references, to adn@anabaptistdisabilities.net.
Anabaptist Disabilities Network is seeking a Project Director for All In: Immersive Worship for Everybody. All In is a five-year project funded by the Lilly Endowment’s Nurturing Children Through Worship and Prayer Initiative. It is a cooperative learning project with congregations to create accessible, intergenerational worship that engages children with disabilities. The project director will coordinate the project, including education, support and resources. They will oversee the project budget, communications, and plans for sustainability. Candidates should have experience with children’s ministry, disability ministry, project and budget management, coordinating a team, communication skills, and Microsoft Office. This is a full-time, salaried position. For more information, please see the position description. To apply, please email resume’ and cover letter, including three references, to adn@anabaptistdisabilities.net.
The Church of the Brethren Intercultural Ministries office is seeking volunteer liaisons to serve as “Frontliners” to connect with congregations and districts. To apply, go to Intercultural Ministries Frontliner Application.
The Church of the Brethren is announcing a new open position for administrative assistant for Discipleship and Leadership Formation at the General Offices in Elgin, Ill. The major responsibility is to enhance and support the ministries of Discipleship and Leadership Formation through administration of a variety of tasks and projects assigned by the executive director. Candidates should have good communication and organizational skills and knowledge of Windows-based applications; bilingual English-Spanish preferred. Three to five years of administrative assistant experience (especially in a non-profit environment) and a bachelor’s degree are desired. Applications will be received beginning immediately and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the position is filled. Qualified candidates are invited to send a cover letter with a resume to COBApply@brethren.org.
The Church of the Brethren is seeking an individual to fill a full-time salaried position of Mission Advancement Advocate. The major responsibility is to strengthen and nurture the individual and congregational stewardship, direct gifts, planned-giving, and enlistment programs of the Church of the Brethren through face-to-face visits with individuals and congregations. Primary focus will be on positively impacting individual and congregational giving in support of denominational ministries. Skills and knowledge required include being well-grounded in Church of the Brethren heritage, theology, and polity; at least three years’ experience in planned/deferred giving and/or five years in development-related activities in the not-for-profit sector, or other comparable experience; ability to inter-relate with individuals and groups; basic computer skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, e-mail) and analytic skills. A bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience is required. Location is flexible but candidate must be willing to travel to Elgin for individual and department meetings as needed. Applications will be received beginning immediately and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the position is filled. Qualified candidates are invited to send a cover letter and resume’ to COBApply@brethren.org.
The Church of the Brethren is seeking an individual to fill a full-time salaried position of director of sales for Brethren Press. The director of sales develops and implements sales plans for Brethren Press and is responsible for the functions of customer service, shipping, and management of the inventory and warehouse. Skills and knowledge required include ability to work with sales and inventory management systems and other computer programs used within Brethren Press, experience supervising people and systems, strong interpersonal skills and experience working well within a team, knowledge of the Church of the Brethren or ability to learn, and ability to articulate and operate out of the vision and values of the Church of the Brethren. Applicants should have experience in sales, especially within the business of publishing and within a church setting. Bachelor’s degree preferred. Knowledge of the Church of the Brethren preferred. This position is based at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill. Applications will be received beginning immediately and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the position is filled. Qualified candidates are invited to send a resume’ to COBApply@brethren.org.
The Church of the Brethren is seeking an individual to fill a full-time salaried position of director of Brethren Historical Library and Archives. Skills and knowledge required include familiarity with Church of the Brethren heritage, theology, and polity; ability to articulate and operate out of the vision of the Church of the Brethren; familiarity with library and archival disciplines; customer-service skills; research and problem-solving skills; and proficiency in Microsoft software and experience with OCLC products. Candidates should have at least 3-5 years of experience in a library or archives along with a master’s degree in library science/ archival studies or a public history related program, and extensive knowledge of Church of the Brethren history and beliefs. Graduate degree in history or theology and/or certification by the Academy of Certified Archivists preferred. This position is based at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill. Applications will be received beginning immediately and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the position is filled. Qualified candidates are invited to send a resume to COBApply@brethren.org.
DENOMINATIONAL NEWS/NEWSLINE
Messenger, the Church of the Brethren magazine, received three awards—an award of excellence, an award of merit, and an honorable mention—from the Associated Church Press in the 2024 “Best of the Church Press” contest. Awards were announced during the ACP’s annual convention in Chicago April 30-May 2. Paul Grout’s artwork titled “The Holy Family” received an award of excellence in the category Visual Communications: Illustration with Article or Cutline. It appeared on the cover and on page 16 of the December 2024 issue of Messenger. William Miller’s article “Healthy Planet, Healthy People” received an award of merit in the category Reporting and Writing: Science Writing for the World of Faith. It appeared in the May 2024 issue of Messenger. And Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford’s article “What do we spend on war?” received an honorable mention in the category Reporting and Writing: Service Journalism. It appeared in the June 2024 issue of Messenger.
Anabaptist Disabilities Network has published The Story of God’s First People, a Bible study curriculum for youth and adults with intellectual disabilities. Written by Jeanne Davies (York Center), ADN’s executive director, this Bible study fills the need for faith formation resources written specifically for youth and adults with intellectual disabilities from an Anabaptist perspective. This study includes six lessons covering key figures in the Old Testament. Each story features a captivating illustration by Dona Park that incorporates people of various genders and races, as well as people with visible disabilities, so readers can see themselves in God’s story. Lessons also involve a “do” portion, with action items that provide a “learning through doing” approach. The Bible study is available for purchase at BrethrenPress.com. ADN and the MHS Association also recently received a $1.2 million grant from the Lilly Foundation for All In: Immersive Worship for Everybody, a five-year collaborative learning project with 12- 20 pilot congregations to create accessible, intergenerational worship services that are engaging to people regardless of age or abilities.
Shine Curriculum, a joint project of MennoMedia and Brethren Press, is inviting congregational leaders to participate in a short Congregation Survey this month. This is a valuable opportunity for pastors or formation leaders to help shape future Shine resources by sharing insights about congregational life, Sunday school trends, and curriculum needs. As a thank you, the first 100 churches to respond will receive a $25 USD check—and up to $75 USD total if families in the congregation also complete the Family Survey. Learn more and take part at ShineEverywhere.com/join/surveys.
While Mother’s Day has passed, Global Women’s Project encourages continued support of extraordinary women this month by making a donation to fund women-led projects that improve women’s health, education, and livelihood. Donors can choose a recipient to receive a handmade card indicating a gift has been made in their honor. Learn more at www.globalwomensproject.org.
Racial justice advocates, allies, and all who feel called to stand with people of color in the Church of the Brethren are invited to a meet-up for connection, reflection, and discernment on what comes next. This gathering is a space to forge relationships among committed justice seekers, support one another in leadership, and envision the next steps in dismantling racial hierarchies within our church and society. The meeting will explore how to strengthen grassroots discipleship, appoint local Racial Justice Advocates, and ensure the legacy of this initiative continues to grow. This 90-minute Zoom session is scheduled for June 10 starting at 7 p.m. Central. To register, go to ww.onearthpeace.org/racial_justice_advocates_and_allies_meet_up.
Brethren Revival Fellowship will offer its 52nd annual Brethren Bible Institute July 21-25 on the campus of Elizabethtown (Pa.) College, with eight courses available. Cost is $300 for the week, including lodging and meals. CEU’s are available. Applications are due by June 25. For information, contact Brethren Bible Institute, 155 Denver Rd., Denver, PA 17517.
The Death Row Support Project (DRSP) will be holding informational sessions for people interested in learning more about writing to those on death row. The sessions will go over some basics of how this project works, introduce members of the team who provide support, and talk about expectations of DRSP writers. Upcoming meetings are June 2, 7-8 p.m. Central https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86378715858) and June 7, 1-2 p.m. Central (https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81696905317). Find out more at www.brethren.org/drsp.
The Church of the Brethren Intercultural Ministries Jubilee Celebration will take place Nov. 18-21 in Gotha, Fla., at Camp Ithiel. Find more information at www.brethren.org/intercultural/#jubilee. Intercultural Ministries will also be holding several events at Annual Conference this summer.
The L.E.A.D. Planning Team has scheduled the next in-person denominational L.E.A.D. Conference for May 1-3, 2026, again hosted by Ephrata (Pa.) Church of the Brethren. Between now and then, the team is planning quarterly virtual events as four webinars focused on one of the four leadership components: Listen, Equip, Adapt, Disciple. The first webinar is scheduled for Thursday, June 19, at 6 p.m. Central Time featuring Dennis Edwards, the keynote speaker at the L.E.A.D. Conference held last fall, presenting material on listening as a leadership skill from his book Humility Illuminated. More information about the webinar will be shared soon.
Registration for Song and Story Fest 2025 at Camp Brethren Woods in Keezletown, Va., July 6- 12, is now available, using this online form. More details about Song and Story Fest can be found here. Online registration and payment are again being offered to help streamline the process. Pay online (additional 3% fee) or send a check to On Earth Peace, after submitting your registration online. Using the online registration form is preferred, but the form can also be printed and mailed if needed.
“Early Anabaptism in Global Perspective: Past, Present, and Future at 500 Years” is the topic for a conference at the Young Center at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College on July 22-24. This conference marking the 500th anniversary of the birth of the Anabaptist movement will revisit early Anabaptism and give special attention to the global context in which it emerged and spread. Speakers will also consider how Anabaptist history has been received by churches and academics in more recent times and in varying contexts around the world. With more than three dozen plenary sessions, papers, seminars, and roundtables by presenters from ten countries, the conference will examine such varied themes as migration, diplomacy, the arts, colonialism, peacemaking, and theological identity. Optional pre- and post-conference field trips will visit area libraries and archives and the 1719 Museum. Find out more and register at www.etown.edu/centers/young-center/anabaptism-conference-2025.aspx.
Retired Mennonite pastor Ed Bontrager (who has also had some Church of the Brethren connections) has written a 12-session study titled “Remembering Anabaptist Reformers” to highlight the 500th anniversary of Anabaptism. Cost for the book, about 150 pages, is $12. Order by emailing Ed at eebontrager@comcast.net.
GRANTS AND GIVING
- Mission and Mortar: Sustaining and developing ministry (mission) within congregations, as well as maintaining property (mortar), is sometimes hindered because of inadequate financial resources. The Illinois/Wisconsin District, whose mission is to support the growth and development of member congregations, desires to financially support congregations that are in good standing with the district and have specific needs. More information can be found here.
- Being Jesus in the Neighborhood: Congregations can apply for $100 in seed money to start a new outreach project or initiative in their local communities, or to expand an existing one. These should be projects that intentionally engage with the neighborhood immediately around the congregation or, for those in rural locations, with the town or area around the church. Each congregation receiving a grant will be asked to share a little about their project at district conference. More information can be found here.
- Emerging Missions Fund: To facilitate the growth and establishment of new faith communities, this grant is available for church and ministry planting initiatives. New church and ministry plants are encouraged to apply by contacting the district office and/or the CRDT.
Supporting Your District
The Illinois/Wisconsin District is active in a variety of ministry and mission efforts, both directly and indirectly. Continuing these efforts requires resources in the form of time, tools, knowledge, and especially finances.
Consider making a contribution to the district’s general fund or one of its special funds (disaster relief, youth, emerging ministries, etc.). Look for the donate button at iwdcob.org, or send your checks to the district office: 1S071 Luther Ave., Lombard, IL 60148.
