The Reflector - August 2025
Friday, August 01, 2025
The Village ILWIDIot
Walt Wiltschek
“This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: ‘A voice of one calling in the wilderness, “Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.”’.” —Matthew 3:3, NIV
One evening during our middle school week at Camp Emmaus last month, we encountered “John the Baptist”—brilliantly played by camp manager Randall Westfall—out in the woods. As the campers drew near on their hike, shouts of “Repent!” and “Prepare the way!” could be heard, faintly at first and then with growing force as we drew closer.
A cell phone text from the counselor leading the hike was to alert Randall when we were getting near, but the technological unpredictability of being out at camp meant they didn’t have a good signal, and they lost communication. So, not wanting to miss us, Randall spent the better part of a half hour shouting into the trees as he awaited our arrival.
Ever feel like that sometimes—like you’re calling out into the world and nobody is there to hear you? I expect God feels rather like that sometimes, too, watching incredulously as words and wonders sail right by us, unnoticed.
Earlier in the camp week, the staff were all asked to introduce ourselves by sharing our name and our favorite way to “be still”—the theme for the opening day, drawn from the Psalms. When my turn came, I had to admit I really don’t like to be still, at least not for long. It’s hard for me to have unoccupied time. While I enjoy being in nature, simply sitting and listening don’t come easily for me.
I’m a big fan of the Disney-Pixar films, and recently I re-encountered one titled “Luca.” Set in Italy, it tells the story of two young “sea monsters” who discover they appear human when they come out of the water. One of them has doubts as he tries to adapt to his new identity, and his friend tells him a secret: Whenever doubts fill his mind, he calls out “Silenzio, Bruno!” (Quiet down, Bruno!), as “Bruno” is the name he gives to the negative voices in his mind. Once those quiet down, then he can find the way forward to do something new or beyond his comfort zone.
Perhaps many of us need that reminder, to silence not just the negative voices but also all the other “stuff” that whirs through our mind at any moment: Quiet! Pipe down! What word for us might be out there that we’re missing? What doubts and distractions in our minds might be keeping us from hearing the divine whisper—or shout—in the woods?
DISTRICT EXECUTIVE SCHEDULE
In addition to regular meetings, Walt will be speaking for a service in Pennsylvania Aug. 17, preaching at and meeting with Mount Morris Aug. 24, taking part in a Council of District Executives executive committee meeting Aug. 25, worshiping with Freeport for their anniversary service Sept. 7, preaching at Mount Morris Sept. 14, and worshiping with and conducting a licensing service at Highland Avenue in Elgin Sept. 21.
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.
REMINDER: Please use the new district office address for all mail correspondence: Church of the Brethren IL/WI District, 1S071 Luther Ave., Lombard, IL 60148. As noted earlier this year, do not send mail to Canton, as there is no longer a district office there. Thank you!
CALLING CARDS FROM THE DISTRICT MODERATOR
As the school bells ring and hallways fill with footsteps, we enter a season of fresh beginnings. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, student, or supporter of education, this time of year invites us to reflect on the deeper purpose behind learning. In this special edition, we explore how faith and education walk hand in hand and how this school year can be a powerful opportunity for growth, impact, and spiritual renewal.
The start of a new school year is more than sharpened pencils and new schedules; it’s a divine invitation to rediscover purpose. Proverbs 1:7 reminds us, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.” As students return to their desks, let us remember that true wisdom begins with reverence. Let’s pray for our children to grow not only in knowledge but in character. Let’s support our educators as they shape minds and hearts. And let’s embrace this season with joy, knowing that God is present in every classroom, every challenge, and every triumph.
Education isn’t just academic; it’s spiritual. Every school is a mission field, and every student is a light bearer. Jesus said, “You are the light of the world.” This year let’s equip our children with more than supplies; let’s send them out with courage, kindness, and conviction. Encourage students to be peacemakers, truth-tellers, and friends to the lonely. Support teachers as shepherds of both intellect and soul. And let us, as a community, pray fervently for God’s presence to transform every hallway into holy ground.
As we step into this new academic year, let’s do so with faith, hope, and love. Whether you’re packing lunches, grading papers, or cheering from the sidelines, your role matters. Together, let’s make this school year one of spiritual growth, academic excellence, and Christ-centered community.
Bill Williams, district moderator
UPCOMING MEETINGS & EVENTS
Property & Assets Management Team, Aug. 12, 6:30 p.m.
Leadership Team, Aug. 19, 6:30 p.m.
Program & Arrangements Committee, Aug. 21, 7 p.m.
National Older Adult Conference, Sept. 1-5, Lake Junaluska, N.C.
Ministry Leadership Development Team, Sept. 10, 6:30 p.m.
Church Revitalization and Development Team, Sept. 27, 9 a.m.
Online workshop: “Love Has No Borders: Immigration Issues, Deportation Issues, and Today’s Church,” Oct. 4, 10 a.m.
Leadership Team, Oct. 6, 6:30 p.m.
Illinois/Wisconsin District Conference, Nov. 7-8, Chateau Hotel and Conference Center, Bloomington, Ill.
[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 Aug. 10: Pray for the Freeport congregation as it marks its 105th anniversary this year, and for the faculty, staff, and students of Bethany Theological Seminary.
Week of Aug. 17: Pray for the Peoria First congregation, for its “Mountain Mission” outreach in Kentucky, and for all the ways that our congregations and others are seeking to be “Jesus in the Neighborhood” by connecting with their communities.
Week of Aug. 24: Pray for the Virden congregation, and for all the work being done through the Church of the Brethren Global Food Initiative.
Week of Aug. 31: Pray for the Church of the Brethren National Older Adult Conference (NOAC) as it meets Sept. 1-5 at Lake Junaluska in western North Carolina, and for NOAC coordinator Christy Waltersdorff (York Center) and the NOAC planning team (including Leonard Matheny, Peoria First).
Week of Sept. 7: Pray for the Oak Grove congregation in Lowpoint, and for the Church of the Brethren in Haiti (Eglise des Freres) as it deals with violence and uncertainty.
Week of Sept. 14: Pray for the Girard congregation this week, and for the low-income housing ministry of Girard Area Homes.
REMEMBERED
James Lyle (“Jim”) Kinsey, 82, a former denominational staff member and district executive in the Church of the Brethren, passed away on July 28. He lived in Lake Odessa, Mich., and died peacefully in his sleep. He was born on Feb. 9, 1943, to William Forest Kinsey and Margaret Elizabeth (Dacken) Kinsey. He graduated from Mt. Morris (Ill.) High School in 1961 and from Manchester College (now Manchester University) in North Manchester, Ind., with a degree in religion and philosophy in 1965. In 1968, he completed a master of divinity at Bethany Theological Seminary in Oak Brook, Ill., and was ordained to ministry in the Church of the Brethren. He pastored congregations in Ohio and Michigan and then spent two decades in district and denominational work. In addition to ministry, his many passions included writing and he shared stories and poems and was known as a story-teller. A celebration of life service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 23, at Sunfield United Brethren Church (8436 W. Grand Ledge Hwy., Sunfield, Mich.) preceded by visitation at 9 a.m. and followed by a luncheon. Memorial gifts are received to Heifer International and Church World Service/CROP. The full obituary can be found at www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/lake-odessa-mi/james-kinsey-12469624.
Sandra Lea (Sandy) Bosserman, former district executive for Missouri/Arkansas and a frequent Brethren Press writer, passed away in Missouri on June 28. She had been serving as moderator of Missouri/Arkansas District this year. Her obituary noted, “She saw God’s face in all and in all of creation.” A celebration of life service was held July 19 at Cabool (Mo.) Church of the Brethren.
The district recently learned of the death of Vernon Showalter, former CEO/administrator of the Pinecrest Retirement Community in Mount Morris from 1988 to 2004 and a former member of Mount Morris Church of the
MINISTRY NEWS
Congratulations to Gay Bouwmeester of the Highland Avenue congregation in Elgin, who was recently approved for licensing in the district by the Ministry Leadership Development Team (MLDT)! A licensing service is planned at the church for Sept. 21. Gay is currently enrolled in the denomination’s Training In Ministry (TRIM) program. An ordination service for Michael Cole, pastor at Dixon, took place on Aug. 10, with district executive Walt Wiltschek officiating. Congratulations to Michael (who was also married last month!) and to the Dixon church!
Krista Dutt, who is serving as interim pastor at Highland Avenue, was also approved recently by MLDT for commissioning in the Church of the Brethren. She is a graduate of Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary in Indiana. A commissioning service will be scheduled at a later date.
Several other members of the district are discerning a call to ministry and will be exploring with calling cohorts or interviews in the coming months. Please be in prayer for them as they seek God’s direction for their lives and work.
Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford (Highland Avenue), director of news services for the Church of the Brethren, was one of this year’s eight recipients of the Revelation 7:9 Awards presented by the Intercultural Ministries office. The award recognizes church members and congregations for their contributions to a vision of intercultural ministries in their communities, within the denomination, and in the world at large.
Annali Topf, a Church of the Brethren ordained minister who has been serving as a chaplain in the Milwaukee area, shared that she and her husband, Daniel, will be moving to Lancaster, Pa., where Daniel has accepted a position with Lancaster Bible College. We wish them well in this new setting!
A recording of an equipping session offered at this year’s Annual Conference titled “Many Hands Make Weighty Work Light: A Shared Ministry Model” is now available. Featuring presenters from four congregations, including our own Springfield First, the session describes how such a model strengthens a congregation’s sense of giftedness, its call to discipleship, and mission. Find the recording at www.brethren.org/ministryoffice/shared-ministry-model. Plans for a shared ministry team event in 2026 are also under way.
For any ordained or commissioned ministers who still need to do the ethics training for the current 2025 ordination renewal cycle, two online ethics sessions will be offered this fall. These sessions will be offered on two Saturdays, October 4 and October 11, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Central Time. The session content will equal 5 hours (.5 CEUs), allowing an hour for lunch. An electronic CEU certificate will be mailed to the minister from the Brethren Academy following the session. There is no charge for CEUs for this event. If you wish to register for this event, please contact the district office at iwdde@outlook.com. There will also be an in-person ethics training offered at Camp Mack in Milford, Ind., on Sept. 19, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Eastern Time, in cooperation with Northern Indiana District. Cost for that event is $45, including lunch at the camp. You can contact office.nidcob@gmail.com to register, or call 574-773-3149. All ministers must attend an ethics training every five years unless they are given an exemption for being retired and completely out of ministry of any kind. Note that all other forms (other than the background check, which will be done later) for the ordination renewal are due to the district office via email or regular mail by Aug. 10. Copies of most forms can be found at www.brethren.org/ministryoffice/forms/. The district Ministry Leadership Development Team (MLDT) will complete document reviews and renewals for all credentialed ministers in the district later this year.
Congregational vacancies/updates:
Cerro Gordo: Larry Traxler retired as pastor effective Aug. 10. Plans are under way to complete a congregational profile and form a search committee. District executive Walt Wiltschek met with the congregation in May to help begin the process.
Dutchtown (Milledgeville): Ed Livengood is serving as an internal preacher and providing pastoral care. Ed is pursuing a call to ministry and has 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 was recently affirmed for commissioning in the Church of the Brethren. 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 currently using pulpit supply.
Mount Morris: Rodney Caldwell has announced his retirement effective Aug. 31, with his last Sunday at the church on Aug. 17. District executive Walt Wiltschek will be serving as a partial interim pastor through the fall (two Sundays per month) to assist with the transition, as the church is also finalizing the sale of its building. Walt and the congregation have met several times to work on next steps.
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 been doing interviews. Jonathan Shively and Tony Asta are serving as an interim pastoral team and have extended their contract through Sept. 30.
CONGREGATIONAL/LOCAL NEWS
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.
Canton held an all-church picnic and birthday celebration July 13 at the Canton Christian Church pavilion. It included a potluck meal, an artistic group activity focusing on the colors of God’s creation, and an abundance of birthday cupcakes. The congregation, one of the oldest in the district, is marking its 180th anniversary this year. It participated in the city of Canton’s bicentennial celebration June 20-29, holding special services June 22 and 29. Among the participants were Kevin and Tammy Kessler, pictured at left.
Members of Peoria First volunteered at the local Ronald McDonald House on July 24, preparing and serving a meal for families at the house. The congregation also recently received a check for more than $1,600 toward its Kentucky Mountain Mission Project through its partnership with the Peoria Heights Helping Hands Resale Shoppe. On Aug. 17, Peoria First will hold an outdoor worship and church picnic at Reader Park.
Congratulations to Chuck and Jane Pomazal of Dixon, who celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a party at the church on Aug. 9. … Lloyd and Marilyn Kirkwood (York Center) celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in late June.
Dixon will hold its all-church picnic this coming Sunday, Aug. 17. The congregation is also hosting an American Red Cross blood drive on Aug. 18, 1-6 p.m.
Chicago First—which is celebrating its centennial this year—this summer “re-planted” some redesigned peace poles in its New Horizons Garden adjacent to the church (pictured at right). The congregation had earlier gathered to make the new signs for the poles together.
Mount Morris has accepted an offer for the purchase of its building from a church group based in Rochelle. Details are now being finalize and working toward a closing date in the coming weeks. The congregation plans to hold a service of celebration and farewell to the building, hopefully in September. Watch for more details.
Mount Morris plans to continue as a congregation using space in the nearby Pinecrest Community Grove building, shifting there after the sale is completed and saving the significant overhead expenses and needs of their current facility. The long-running Loaves & Fish food pantry is expected to be able to continue to operate out of the current building.
York Center (Lombard) held its annual outdoor worship service and all-church picnic on Aug. 10. A memorial service for former member Estella Horning will take place at the church on Oct. 11, 10:30 a.m., followed by a meal.
The Illinois Conference of Churches will offer a free Zoom seminar marking the 1,700th anniversary of the first Council of Nicaea on Sept. 14, 2-3 p.m. Panelists will look at the Nicene Creed and its liturgical, doctrinal, and ecumenical impacts, followed by discussion. To register, visit www.bit.ly/Nicaea1700.
Camp Mack (Milford, Ind.) held its centennial celebration on Aug. 10. See 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.
IMMIGRATION ISSUES, DEPORTATION, AND TODAY’S CHURCH
Phyllis has worked extensively in the fields of immigration and deportation cases for many years and wrote the book "Love Has No Borders: True Stories of Desperation as Seen by a Social Worker." A graduate of Juniata College, she has also served as refugee resettlement coordinator for Mid-Atlantic District and is a talented musician who plays bass with a local band.
There is no charge for this event, and anyone is welcome to attend. Clergy can receive 0.15 CEU's for participating. To register and receive the Zoom link, please contact the IL/WI District office at iwdde@outlook.com.
Deportation Defense Response Team: This denominational effort, organized by several districts with large numbers of undocumented members to provide support, advocacy, and legal assistance as needed—is inviting partnerships. Congregations wishing to aid this need through special offerings or other fundraising can send gifts to Atlantic Southeast District; contact district executive Beth Sollenberger for more information about sending an offering to the Deportation Defense Response Team at atlanticsoutheastcob@gmail.com. The team will distribute funds received to members of the church facing immigration challenges who are in need of legal support. The group is also seeking Brethren attorneys who might be willing to assist the work. If you can help, please contact Julie Avila, Educator & Organizer on the Deportation Defense Response Team, at migrantjustice@onearthpeace.org. Also, a “Service of Lament for Families Disrupted by Deportation” is being planned by the team and at least three congregations in Ohio. Leaders of Church of the Brethren congregations who have members who have been detained or deported are planning the public service of lament on Aug. 24 at 5:30 p.m. Central. The outdoor service will include church members’ stories, scripture readings, songs, and prayer. It will take place in southwest or south-central Ohio.
DISTRICT CONFERENCE 2025
Facility: The district Program & Arrangements Committee decided to use a conference center this year since no other congregations in the South/Central region that hadn’t already held district events recently were readily available to host in their buildings in 2025. Cerro Gordo and perhaps other area congregations will help to “host” the conference in Bloomington, however, and Peoria First members are working on worship center plans. The Chateau is a unique facility, designed like a medieval castle, located at Veterans Parkway and Jumer Drive in Bloomington, right by the Bloomington-Normal line. It has an indoor pool and small fitness center. Numerous restaurants, a supermarket, and other stores are located nearby. It is easily accessed from I-55, I-74, and I-39. There’s also an Amtrak and bus station in downtown Normal with regular public bus service that drops off across the street from the hotel. The Bloomington airport is only about two miles away. The Constitution Trail runs along the river just behind the hotel for walking or cycling. The hotel and meeting spaces are handicapped-accessible, and ample parking is available. In addition to the main hotel lobby entrance, a breezeway entrance and parking are available behind the hotel at the conference center area.
Lodging: A block of rooms has been set aside for our group at The Chateau Hotel. A smaller block is available Thursday night for anyone wishing to come ahead of the pre-conference event on Friday or to enjoy some extra time in the area, with a larger block available for Friday night. The rate is $99/night plus tax for a single king or double queen room, including continental breakfast. Parking is free. To reserve, call the hotel directly at 309-662-2020 and mention that you’re part of the Church of the Brethren event.
Meals: A plated lunch provided by the conference center will be available for order on Saturday. Cost and menu are still being finalized. A boxed lunch will also be included as part of the Friday pre-conference educational event. Numerous restaurants are available nearby, as well. A list of options will be included as part of the conference materials.
Exhibits: An exhibit area will be available surrounding our dining space in the Bonaparte Room.
Pre-Conference Continuing Education Event: A continuing education event offering training and discussion around the topic of Kingian Non-Violence will be offered by On Earth Peace from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 7, in the hotel’s Library Room off the main lobby. It is open to anyone. Clergy can receive 0.5 CEU’s for participating. More details to come.
Schedule: The main conference will start with a hymn sing at 7:10 p.m. and worship at 7:30 p.m. Friday evening in the Smart Auditorium. An ice cream social with packaged ice cream treats will follow. Saturday, business will begin at 8:45 a.m., and is scheduled to end by 4 p.m. Equipping session options will be available after lunch on Saturday. Exhibits will be open throughout the conference.
Delegates: All congregations are encouraged to send delegates to the conference. An assessment of $30 per delegate and a count of allotted delegates has been sent to each congregation. 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. Assessments must be paid in order to seat delegates; this does not include meal or lodging costs.
Non-delegates: The registration cost for non-delegates this year will be $15 per person, not including meal or lodging costs. Registration for non-delegates will open by Sept. 1. Anyone is welcome to attend the conference, but all need to register.
Business: Among the items on the agenda will be the district budget for 2026, the slate of candidates for offices that is being finalized by the Gifts Discernment and Call Committee and the leadership team, a recommendation to officially disorganize the Rockford Community church, agency and committee reports, and equipping session workshops.
Conference Service Project: Champaign Church of the Brethren has an important outreach ministry in their neighborhood, headed up by ministry leader Dawn Blackman. In addition to their community gardens, they have a food pantry and the Dorcas Clothes Closet. The district Program and Arrangements Committee wants to support these ministries, so our service project for district conference invites your congregation to send some of the following items:
• Cake Mix and frosting along with birthday candles
• Cooking oil (like canola)
• Peanut butter
• Jelly
• Cereal
• Fruit cups
• Canned corn
• Canned green beans
• Oatmeal
• Canning jars
• Gardening tools
• Reusable bags
• Reams of printer paper
• Used crockpots
• Lightly used coats
• Lightly used boots
• Socks
• Backpacks
Other: Due to the venue and limited usage in recent years, we do not anticipate having a Zoom option available this year, but we’re looking into recording parts of the events. There will not be an auction at district conference this year.
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
Camp Emmaus has had a good summer, with at least 20 campers registered for each of Elementary, Senior High, Middle School, and Intermediate camps. The following events are still on the upcoming schedule:
Aug. 22-24 Men’s Camp
Aug. 29-Sept. 1 Labor Day Family Camp
Sept. 13 Camp Celebration Day and Lunch (free event), beginning 12 p.m.
The camp also has been offering public swims during the summer, 1-4 p.m. Sundays.
Camp Emmaus is raising funds to replace its commercial dishwasher, which has reached the end of its useful life. Learn more at 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.”
Camp Emmanuel had a successful day camp program July 14-18, with 70-plus children registered and an average of about 65 in attendance each day. The theme for the week was “I will make you fishers of men!”, drawing on water themes. The camp featured a long slip-and-slide, and a variety of area congregations participated. Woodland Church of the Brethren (Astoria) provides significant funding support for the program. A Creation Camp also took place July 18-20, with other age-group camps in June.
Family Camp is coming up Aug. 29-Sept. 1. Learn more about Camp Emmanuel at www.campem.com.
YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS: NYC 2026
Additionally, participants will have a learning opportunity with Charles (Chuck) Hunt, who will lead sessions based on the book Faith Beyond Youth Group. The sessions will build on work by the Fuller Youth Institute, where Hunt is senior director of training, all while inspiring participants and providing new tools to help in various ministry contexts. Continuing education credit will be available.
Early bird registration is $300 and is available until July 31. Regular registration is $375. Registration includes two nights’ double-occupancy lodging, four meals, and all sessions. All registrants will be responsible for their transportation to and from the YMCA of the Rockies. (Denver International Airport is the most convenient, and there is shuttle service to the YMCA.)
For more information, go to www.brethren.org/yya/advisor-preview-weekend-for-nyc-2026 or contact Becky Ullom Naugle, director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries, at bullomnaugle@brethren.org or 847-429-4385.
Registration will open in January. Learn more about NYC 2026 at the National Youth Conference page.
DISASTER RESPONSE
In response to a request from the Red Cross, Children’s Disaster Services (CDS) sent two Critical Response Childcare teams to Texas to care for children affected by the early July flash flooding in the Kerrville area. Two CDS teams also responded to the aftermath of the May 16 tornado in St. Louis, Mo.
For those interested in volunteering with CDS, two trainings are available this fall: Sept. 26-27 at Warrensburg (Mo.) First United Methodist Church and Oct. 17-18 at Elizabethtown (Pa.) Church of the Brethren, and two in spring 2026: Feb. 20-21 in Beaufort, S.C., and Feb. 27-28 in Glendale, Ariz. Registration, including all meals, curriculum, and overnight is $55 for early bird, and $65 if sent less than three weeks before the event. Participants in the 25-hour training, which includes a simulated shelter experience, learn to provide comfort and encouragement to children by offering the healing young children need in traumatic situations. Learn more and register at www.brethren.org/cds/training/.
NATIONAL OLDER ADULT CONFERENCE
The vibrant week includes worship, keynote sessions, workshops, service projects, field trips, ice cream socials, and more. This year’s keynote speakers are: 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 a few additional passengers ($450 round-trip from Kansas). If interested, please contact Monica Frye at 620-241-0919 x264 or mfrye@thecedars.org.
Please be in prayer for all the members of our district participating in this event! The NOAC 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.
ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2025
Business encompassed numerous items, including the query “Concerns About Current Practices Related to Matters of Sexuality” brought by the Highland Avenue and York Center congregations in this district and presented at the Conference by Highland Avenue board chair Scott Douglas. After significant debate about the Standing Committee recommendation to send the query to the Review and Evaluation Committee—an every-10-years group which was elected at this Conference to review denominational work and structure—the recommendation passed. It also recommended that “the concerns of the query be accepted as a legitimate question.”
A query from Mid-Atlantic District on “Reducing Harm: Interim Steps to Reduce Suffering” also addressed questions stemming from the 1983 paper on Human Sexuality and was answered with several points acknowledging that “some existing position statements on human sexuality appear out of step and merit further discernment” and denouncing conversion therapy as an option.
Delegates also renewed the agency status of Bethany Theological Seminary, Eder Financial, and On Earth Peace based on new covenant agreements. The only significant questions regarding agency status came during discussion of On Earth Peace in a session marked by high emotion on the part of people both supporting and opposing the renewal of agency status, as well as about the broader work to support immigrants. In other business, recommendations on “Calling Denominational Leadership” and “Breaking Down Barriers” (with Jeanne Davies among the presenters) were affirmed, and the “Standing with People of Color” group concluded its work, lifting up study materials and resources that have been created. Three new fellowships in Virlina and Pacific Southwest districts were welcomed.
Dennis Beckner, pastor of Columbia City (Ind.) Church of the Brethren, was called as moderator-elect and will serve as moderator of the 2027 Annual Conference in Daytona Beach, Fla. Don Fitzkee of Lancaster, Pa., is the 2026 moderator for the Conference that will take place next year in Fort Wayne, Ind. Others called to serve at this Conference include Amber T. Harris of Durham, N.C. to Program & Arrangements Committee; Harry Biddle of Oakton, Va., to the Pastoral Compensation & Benefits Advisory Committee; Chris Douglas of Elgin, Ill.; Ilexene Alphonse of Miami, Fla.; Lupita Ortiz Cruz of Bassett, Va.; Anna Lisa Gross of North Manchester, Ind; and Daniel Rudy of Callaway, Va., to the Review and Evaluation Committee; Eric Ramirez of Lancaster, Pa. (Area 1), Sarah Mason of McPherson, Kan. (Area 4), and Daniel Landon Butler of Grundy Center, Iowa (at-large) to the Mission & Ministry Board; Katy Gray Brown of North Manchester, Ind., John D. Miller of York, Pa., and Dennis Webb of Naperville, Ill., to the Bethany Theological Seminary Board of Trustees; Jan Fahs of North Manchester, Ind., Katherine Haff of North Manchester, Ind., and Derrick Petry of Beavercreek, Ohio, to the Eder Financial board; and Stephen Niamke of Roanoke, Va., to the On Earth Peace board.
The Conference also included daily worship on the theme “Faith Working Through Love,” with preachers Dava Hensley, the 2025 moderator; 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. This year’s Annual Conference Witness to the Host City benefited BackPack Beginnings, a nonprofit dedicated to making a difference for local, low-income children and families by providing for their tangible basic needs. More than $17,000 and nearly 200 backpacks and 4,800 school supply items were donated to the organization. In addition, a blood drive collected 116 units at the Conference, and a silent auction raised nearly $14,000 for Annual Conference to expand its work.
Among those from our district who played key roles at the Conference, Jeanne Davies (York Center) led the Ministers’ Association pre-conference event, Leonard and Vicki Matheny (Peoria First) again oversaw registration, Carol Kussart (Cerro Gordo) was a microphone monitor, Heidi Gross (Chicago First) served as a worship leader Thursday evening, Mary Jessup and other members of Springfield First were part of an evening equipping session on shared ministry teams, Chris Douglas (Highland Avenue) oversaw the silent auction, Kevin Kessler
(Canton) represented us on Standing Committee, Debbie Noffsinger (Highland Avenue) continued in her role as Annual Conference assistant, Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford (Highland Avenue) coordinated news coverage, and several others were there in denominational staff roles. A few of our members also served as table facilitators.
A two-page wrap-up of the Conference can be accessed and printed at www.brethren.org/news/coverage/ac2025/. Other resources available there include recordings of worship services and the Church of the Brethren annual report. For further information on Annual Conference business items and other links, visit www.brethren.org/ac2025. The 2026 Annual Conference will take place June 28-July 2 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. [Some material drawn from Church of the Brethren “Newsline” coverage. Photo by Glenn Riegel, Church of the Brethren]
EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
• “The Rural Church in God’s Country” is the topic for an online book study hosted by the Part-Time Pastor, Full-Time Church program of the Church of the Brethren Ministry Office. Pastor Brad Roth, in his book God’s Country: Faith, Hope, and the Future of the Rural Church, and Allen Stanton, author of Reclaiming Rural: Building Thriving Rural Congregations, champion rural ministry and the dedicated leaders who make it possible. Sessions will be facilitated by “circuit rider” John Fillmore. The series of 10 sessions begins on Sept. 2 and will be held every Tuesday for approximately 90 minutes, starting at 7 p.m. (Eastern time). Continuing education units are available and can be requested when the book study evaluation form is completed. Register at https://forms.gle/cCanuEcqx4Bmbym79. For questions, email John Fillmore at filmojo@gmail.com or Tabitha Rudy at adminptpftc@brethren.org.
• Upcoming courses from the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership include “Introduction to Hebrew Bible,” online Oct. 22-Dec. 16, led by Matt Boersma (registration deadline Sept. 10). Register and pay online at Brethren Academy Course Registration/Biannual TRIM Payment | Bethany Theological Seminary (bethanyseminary.edu). Courses on the schedule for 2026 include “Church of the Brethren Beliefs and Practices,” “Introduction to Educational Ministry,” “Church History 1,” “Introduction to Preaching,” “Introduction to Biblical Studies,” and “Introduction to the New Testament.”
• Upcoming Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center (SVMC) continuing education courses include “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; “Caring for Congregational Members at the End-of-Life” (for clergy), led by Julie Guistwite, Oct. 7, 8:30-11:30 a.m. Central, via Zoom, cost $35; “Supporting Terminally Ill Congregation Members” (for laypeople), led by Julie Guistwite, Oct. 28, 8:30-11:30 a.m.. Central, via Zoom, cost $25 (group discount available); and “Weakness Transformed in the Gospel of Matthew,” led by Dan Ulrich, Nov. 1, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Central, via Zoom (or in person in Huntingdon, Pa.), cost $45 (additional $20 for in-person). Course prices are $10 less without
CEU’s. Register by visiting the SVMC course page or by contacting Karen Hodges at karenhodges@svmccob.org.
• McPherson College’s “Ventures in Christian Discipleship” series will offer “Preaching and Storytelling,” by Dawn Ottoni-Wilhelm, Sept. 16 and 23, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Central (0.4 CEU’s); “Immigration Solidarity,” by Founa Badet and Matt Guynn, Oct. 21 and 28, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Central (0.4 CEU’s); and “Making Sense of God’s Violent Behavior in the Old Testament,” by Eric Seibert, Nov. 8, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Central (0.3 CEU’s). All sessions are via Zoom. Suggested donation is $25 per course. Learn more and register at https://www.mcpherson.edu/ventures/.
• Lombard Mennonite Peace Center offers a variety of training sessions. Upcoming options include “Peaceful, Productive Pastor-Parish Partnerships,” 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,” Sept. 11 via Zoom. The Mediation Skills Training Institute will be held in person in Glen Ellyn, Ill., Sept. 29-Oct. 3. For details and registration information, go to https://www.lmpeacecenter.org/trainings.
• 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
Jon Lucas Keller has been hired by the Church of the Brethren as the Mission Advancement advocate. Lucas has been working as grants manager for the Troy Foundation. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in sociology and community development from Bluffton University. He brings a strong communication background to the Mission Advancement team that focuses on the impact of storytelling to invite engagement and financial support. He is a founding member of the Southern Ohio/Kentucky District Racial Justice Team and attended the Christian Citizenship Seminar while in high school. Lucas began working as a remote employee from Maineville, Ohio, on July 28.
Bethany Theological Seminary has hired Mary Parrett as Coordinator of Bethany BOLD. BOLD (which stands for Build, Organize, Love, and Dare) is the seminary’s service-based program for residential students. A former social studies teacher, she began her work at Bethany on July 14.
Patrick Miller has been hired by the Church of the Brethren as part-time Buildings and Grounds assistant, working from the General Offices in Elgin, Ill. Patrick is currently retired and previously worked as the building maintenance assistant for Children's Home and Aid in Carpentersville, Ill. Patrick began his work on July 14.
Jose Rudy Amaya, a member of the Conexion Pasadena congregation, began June 1 as associate district executive minister intern for Pacific Southwest District. Rudy has a certificate in theology and a Church Ministry certificate from Hope International University. The initial contract is for six months, with the opportunity to renew that up to two additional terms.
Anabaptist Disabilities Network (ADN) recently welcomed Keli Boyer as the director for the All In Project. Boyer has 10 years of experience in nonprofit and church leadership, including directing respite camps for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities and serving as a children’s pastor. Most recently she was director of Mission and Culture for the L’Arche community in Chicago. Boyer holds a Master of Divinity from Duke Divinity School. She grew up attending First Mennonite in Middlebury, Ind., and currently lives in Chicago with her husband, where they attend Missio Dei Church. Boyer began her new role in June.
Melissa Fritz concluded her work as packer for Material Resources with the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., on July 8. This layoff is due to the closing of the Material Resources program at the end of 2025 and the reduced quilt donations to process as part of the transition for the program partners to new warehouses. Melissa began her service on Oct. 2, 2017.
Fatima Kurth has officially resigned her accountant position at Eder Financial. Her last day was July 18. She plans to pursue other opportunities in a family business. Fatima began employment with Eder in October 2017.
JOB OPENINGS
Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership (BAML) is seeking a part-time administrative assistant, 25-30 hours per week. This position provides direct support to BAML staff, students, and programs. A high school diploma is required, associate’s degree preferred, along with clerical and organizational skills, knowledge of Microsoft Office suite, and a flexible schedule. Bilingual English-Spanish preferred. Interested candidates should send their resumes, a letter of interest, and contact information for three references by email to: Janet Ober Lambert, Director, Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership, 615 National Road West, Richmond, IN, 47374 or academysearch@bethanyseminary.edu.
Eder Financial has an opening for a client services manager. This is a full-time, salaried position that requires at least an undergraduate degree and four to eight years of experience. Candidates should have effective oral and written communication skills. CRPC designation and/or financial and insurance licenses are encouraged. Working knowledge of CRM software is a plus. The position is expected to have 25 to 50 percent travel associated with it, but primary location is flexible. To apply, email a cover letter, resume’, and three references to Tammy Chudy, tchudy@eder.org.
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 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.
DENOMINATIONAL NEWS/NEWSLINE
Mennonite Health Service Association and Anabaptist Disabilities Network recently received a grant of $1.2 million from Lilly Endowment’s Nurturing Children Through Worship and Prayer Initiative, which aims to support faith-based organizations as they help children grow in faith and deepen their relationships with God. As a result, ADN is launching an exciting new opportunity for Anabaptist congregations through a five-year project, All In: Immersive Worship for Everybody. This collaborative project invites congregations on a journey of creating accessible, intergenerational worship through a five-year collaborative project. All In will emphasize the importance of congregational worship in children’s faith formation. Church leaders will have the opportunity to receive in-person and virtual training and coaching, participate in in-person retreats and online forums, and receive $2,000 annually for supplies to expand ministries. Applications are now open through October. For more information, email All In Project Director, Keli Boyer at KeliB@anabaptistdisabilities.net.
Brethren Disaster Ministries has directed large grants from the Church of the Brethren’s Emergency Disaster Fund to support Eglise des Freres au Congo (Church of the Brethren in the DRC) in providing a six-month emergency humanitarian aid program for families affected by war, and to a program being developed by the Church of the Brethren Mission in South Sudan. Also among recent grants, funding was provided for the Hurricane Helene response of Brethren Disaster Ministries.
The Eder Retirement Plan memorial tribute shared at Annual Conference is available online at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YRHw9EP_klM&feature=youtu.be.
Erica Leeds, director of Camp Carmel in North Carolina, received this year’s Staff Member/Camp Director of the Year Award from the Outdoor Ministries Association (OMA) at an annual breakfast event at Annual Conference. OMA also presented a special “Four Horsemen” award to Doug and Sally Ruby of Camp Swatara. The award is named after four Brethren who decades earlier had traveled from church to church promoting camp ministries when those ministries were in their infancies.
McPherson (Kan.) College officially opened its new student center, the Campus Commons, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 24. “As part of the event, a rare 1972 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona was lifted to the ceiling of the atrium, where it will serve as a striking centerpiece of this landmark building,” said a release. “The multi-level, 55,000-square-foot building features new dining options, a coffee shop, campus store, student collaboration and lounge spaces.
The Global Church of the Brethren Communion met June 6 via Zoom with delegates from member denominations attending. Among top agenda items, the group elected two new officers of the board of the communion: Santos Terrero of Spain as president, and Sharon Brugger Norton of the United States as treasurer. The countries represented at the meeting included Brazil, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Haiti, Honduras, India, Rwanda, Spain, Uganda, the United States, and Venezuela.
Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) Unit 337, the 2025 summer unit, completed orientation at Camp Colorado on July 27 through Aug. 4. The nine new volunteers include five from EIRENE, a long-term partner organization based in Germany.
The latest Covenant Bible Studies series issue from Brethren Press is a powerful study on Sabbath: God’s Call to Peace written by Angela Finet, pastor of Mountville (Pa.) Church of the Brethren. Order 10 or more to get 20 percent off. Order at www.brethrenpress.com/product_p/9780871783769.htm.
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 free 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. Others will follow on Oct. 16, Jan. 15, and March 19.
CEU’s are available for clergy. For more information and to register go to www.brethren.org/thirdthursday.
GRANTS AND GIVING
Grants available through the district include the following:
1. Mission and Mortar: Sustaining and developing ministry (mission) within congregations, as well as maintaining property (mortar), is sometimes hindered because of inadequate financial resources. The Illinois/Wisconsin District, whose mission is to support the growth and development of member congregations, desires to financially support congregations that are in good standing with the district and have specific needs. More information can be found here.
1. Mission and Mortar: Sustaining and developing ministry (mission) within congregations, as well as maintaining property (mortar), is sometimes hindered because of inadequate financial resources. The Illinois/Wisconsin District, whose mission is to support the growth and development of member congregations, desires to financially support congregations that are in good standing with the district and have specific needs. More information can be found here.
2. Being Jesus in the Neighborhood: Congregations can apply for $100 in seed money to start a
new outreach project or initiative in their local communities, or to expand an existing one.
These should be projects that intentionally engage with the neighborhood immediately around
the congregation or, for those in rural locations, with the town or area around the church. Each
congregation receiving a grant will be asked to share a little about their project at district
conference. More information can be found here.
3. Emerging Missions Fund: To facilitate the growth and establishment of new faith
communities, this grant is available for church and ministry planting initiatives. New church and
ministry plants are encouraged to apply by contacting the district office and/or the CRDT.
Supporting Your District
The Illinois/Wisconsin District is active in a variety of ministry and mission efforts, both directly and indirectly. Continuing these efforts requires resources in the form of time, tools, knowledge, and especially finances. Consider making a contribution to the district’s general fund or one of its special funds (disaster relief, youth, emerging ministries, etc.). Look for the donate button at iwdcob.org, or send your checks to the district office: 1S071 Luther Ave., Lombard, IL 60148.
