2024 Advent Guide: Hope is Near

NC Council of Churches

Strength in Unity, Peace through Justice

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Thank You for Speaking Love in 2016

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We could not begin the new year without acknowledging the volunteers, grassroots advocates, donors, organizational partners, and all others who helped the Council continue to be a faithful, prophetic voice for justice, peace, and unity in 2016.

In particular, we would like to recognize faith leaders from across traditions, denominations, and locations statewide who signed their name to our shared call for love and mutual care.

Their statement reads:

All of our holy texts call us to love one another, to care for each other, and to work for justice. Now more than ever, we pledge to lead by example and work together for the beloved community God invites us to share.

This list includes names in addition to those from a December ad in the Raleigh News & Observer.

We are tremendously grateful to all of you for uniting in this message of love, hope, and compassion.

About Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Aleta Payne first joined the Council staff in the spring of 2001 as the Communications Associate. She continues to oversee that work along with development, represents the Council in several partnership efforts, and serves in other administrative roles, as well. Aleta is a graduate of the University of Virginia with a degree in government and foreign affairs and spent much of her early career as a journalist. She has three young adult sons who continue to come home to Cary for dinner, or at least groceries, and two young adult terrier-mix dogs who keep the nest from feeling too empty.