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The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

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About The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Jennifer is a native of South Carolina and an ordained minister in The United Methodist Church. She loves South Carolina, but has managed to spend all but ten years of her adult life in North Carolina. Those ten years were spent pastoring United Methodist churches across the Upstate. She attended Duke University several times and in the process earned a BA, double majoring in English and Religion, a Master of Divinity, a PhD in religion, and a Graduate Certificate in Women’s Studies. Prior to coming to the Council, she spent 16 years as the United Methodist Chaplain at Duke University, where she also taught undergraduate and divinity school classes, served on committees and task forces, and attended lots of basketball games. She writes frequently for various publications when time permits and preaches regularly in congregations across North Carolina. Jennifer has two adult children, Nathan, who is a software developer in Durham, and Hannah, who is a digital marketing analyst in Charlotte. Jennifer is the overjoyed grandparent of Benjamin and Theodore.

2022 Advent Guide: First Sunday

November 23, 2022 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 2:1-5 The word that Isaiah son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and […]

2022 Advent Guide: First Sunday

November 23, 2022 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 2:1-5 The word that Isaiah son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Scripture

Dishonoring the Boy Scouts of America

September 13, 2022 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

As the proud parent of an Eagle Scout (Occoneechee Council), the announcement that Boy Scout organizers have invited former president George W. Bush to address the Scouts in the Raleigh area next week […]

Dishonoring the Boy Scouts of America

September 13, 2022 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

As the proud parent of an Eagle Scout (Occoneechee Council), the announcement that Boy Scout organizers have invited former president George W. Bush to address the Scouts in the Raleigh area next week […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Torture

Democracy Rooted in Imago Dei

September 7, 2022 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland at the #MapOurFuture: People Over Politics virtual town hall on Thursday, September 1, 2022. The event focused on Moore […]

Democracy Rooted in Imago Dei

September 7, 2022 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland at the #MapOurFuture: People Over Politics virtual town hall on Thursday, September 1, 2022. The event focused on Moore […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Redistricting, Voting Rights

Fair Courts Press Conference

August 23, 2022 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The N.C. Council of Churches includes 18 denominations with churches large and small, urban and rural, black, brown, and white all across the state. One of the things we all […]

Fair Courts Press Conference

August 23, 2022 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The N.C. Council of Churches includes 18 denominations with churches large and small, urban and rural, black, brown, and white all across the state. One of the things we all […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Elections, Good Government, Policy, Voting Rights

Fair, Safe and Secure Elections

August 19, 2022 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Prior to the 2020 elections, a representative from the Carter Center’s Conflict Resolution team reached out to the North Carolina Council of Churches. For the first time in its 40-year […]

Fair, Safe and Secure Elections

August 19, 2022 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Prior to the 2020 elections, a representative from the Carter Center’s Conflict Resolution team reached out to the North Carolina Council of Churches. For the first time in its 40-year […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Elections, Good Government, Policy, Voting Rights

Do Justice. Love Kindness. Walk Humbly

April 28, 2022 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by the Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland, during a memorial service and press conference at the North Carolina State Capitol in Raleigh commemorating Workers Memorial Day. Click here to view […]

Do Justice. Love Kindness. Walk Humbly

April 28, 2022 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by the Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland, during a memorial service and press conference at the North Carolina State Capitol in Raleigh commemorating Workers Memorial Day. Click here to view […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Labor, Workers' Rights

You Shall Not Make an Idol

April 25, 2022 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland, during one of the four gun violence prevention vigils that occurred across North Carolina on April 24, 2022. The following […]

You Shall Not Make an Idol

April 25, 2022 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland, during one of the four gun violence prevention vigils that occurred across North Carolina on April 24, 2022. The following […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence

Paid Leave Can Help Make Us Well

March 9, 2022 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

This Raleigh Report was written by Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, in collaboration with Matt Rossi, Duke Divinity School intern. The past two years have revealed not only how vulnerable we […]

Paid Leave Can Help Make Us Well

March 9, 2022 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

This Raleigh Report was written by Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, in collaboration with Matt Rossi, Duke Divinity School intern. The past two years have revealed not only how vulnerable we […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Good Government

2022 Lenten Guide: 40 Days of Positive Change

February 11, 2022 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Christians often use the season of Lent to focus on the basics. Some of us practice denial of certain luxuries and others practice the addition of spiritual disciplines. The point […]

2022 Lenten Guide: 40 Days of Positive Change

February 11, 2022 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Christians often use the season of Lent to focus on the basics. Some of us practice denial of certain luxuries and others practice the addition of spiritual disciplines. The point […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Resources

Calling for Courage: A Response to the Bomb Threats on our Historically Black Colleges and Universities

February 1, 2022 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Cowards perpetrate fear and sow discord. Such cowards are hard at work this week creating havoc on our nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities. As an organization founded in 1935 […]

Calling for Courage: A Response to the Bomb Threats on our Historically Black Colleges and Universities

February 1, 2022 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Cowards perpetrate fear and sow discord. Such cowards are hard at work this week creating havoc on our nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities. As an organization founded in 1935 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Racial Justice

Truth, Justice and Reconciliation

January 21, 2022 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive, Jennifer Copeland, during the public launch of the North Carolina — Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission (NC-TJRC) on January 20, 2022. To watch […]

Truth, Justice and Reconciliation

January 21, 2022 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive, Jennifer Copeland, during the public launch of the North Carolina — Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission (NC-TJRC) on January 20, 2022. To watch […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured

The Sins of Guantanamo Bay

January 12, 2022 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, during a vigil on January 11, 2022 calling on the Biden administration to close the Guantanamo Bay […]

The Sins of Guantanamo Bay

January 12, 2022 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, during a vigil on January 11, 2022 calling on the Biden administration to close the Guantanamo Bay […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured

No to SB 43

January 5, 2022 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland, on January 5, 2021 at a Gun Violence Prevention press conference. View the live stream here. When individual rights are at […]

No to SB 43

January 5, 2022 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland, on January 5, 2021 at a Gun Violence Prevention press conference. View the live stream here. When individual rights are at […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence

Heal the Sick

December 2, 2021 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks are from Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, during a candlelight vigil on World AIDs Day to honor, remember, and celebrate the lives of those living with and lost […]

Heal the Sick

December 2, 2021 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks are from Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, during a candlelight vigil on World AIDs Day to honor, remember, and celebrate the lives of those living with and lost […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Health

2021 Advent Guide: First Sunday of Advent

November 24, 2021 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Psalm 25:1-10 To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.O my God, in you I trust; do not let me be put to shame; do not let my enemies […]

2021 Advent Guide: First Sunday of Advent

November 24, 2021 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Psalm 25:1-10 To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.O my God, in you I trust; do not let me be put to shame; do not let my enemies […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Scripture

God’s Creative Diversity

October 12, 2021 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland, on October 11, 2021 at a press conference hosted by St. John’s MCC in front of Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson’s […]

God’s Creative Diversity

October 12, 2021 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland, on October 11, 2021 at a press conference hosted by St. John’s MCC in front of Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson’s […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: LGBTQ

Stand with Elizabeth City

June 2, 2021 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, at the Elizabeth City Solidarity Rally in Raleigh on June 1st, 2021. To watch the full video […]

Stand with Elizabeth City

June 2, 2021 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, at the Elizabeth City Solidarity Rally in Raleigh on June 1st, 2021. To watch the full video […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Racial Justice

Riot or Rally?

May 26, 2021 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were presented by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, at a Takeover Tuesday rally against HB805, a bill that threatens our first amendment. The history of […]

Riot or Rally?

May 26, 2021 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were presented by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, at a Takeover Tuesday rally against HB805, a bill that threatens our first amendment. The history of […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: N.C. General Assembly

A Voice Was Heard

May 10, 2021 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were presented by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, during the public gathering and clergy march in Elizabeth City after the recent death of Andrew Brown, […]

A Voice Was Heard

May 10, 2021 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were presented by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, during the public gathering and clergy march in Elizabeth City after the recent death of Andrew Brown, […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured

A Workers’ Memorial

April 28, 2021 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were presented by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, during the Workers’ Memorial Day Service hosted by the NC State AFL-CIO. To view the live-stream, click […]

A Workers’ Memorial

April 28, 2021 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were presented by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, during the Workers’ Memorial Day Service hosted by the NC State AFL-CIO. To view the live-stream, click […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Covid19

This is a Moral Emergency

April 28, 2021 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following message was presented on April 27, 2021 in Elizabeth City by Executive Director, the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, after the life of Andrew Brown Jr. was abruptly taken […]

This is a Moral Emergency

April 28, 2021 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following message was presented on April 27, 2021 in Elizabeth City by Executive Director, the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, after the life of Andrew Brown Jr. was abruptly taken […]

Filed Under: Blog

Raise the Minimum Wage

April 22, 2021 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland at the Minimum Wage Increase – Bill Introduction Press Conference, hosted by Raising Wages NC. To watch the full […]

Raise the Minimum Wage

April 22, 2021 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland at the Minimum Wage Increase – Bill Introduction Press Conference, hosted by Raising Wages NC. To watch the full […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Living Wage

2021 Lenten Guide- Easter Sunday

March 31, 2021 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from Enough for All, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Acts 10:34-43 Then Peter began to speak to them: ‘I truly understand […]

2021 Lenten Guide- Easter Sunday

March 31, 2021 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from Enough for All, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Acts 10:34-43 Then Peter began to speak to them: ‘I truly understand […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured

2021 Lenten Guide: Enough for All

February 9, 2021 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

How much is enough? Scripture has a treasure trove of advice for defining enough and even more advice on how to make sure everyone has enough. And not merely enough […]

2021 Lenten Guide: Enough for All

February 9, 2021 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

How much is enough? Scripture has a treasure trove of advice for defining enough and even more advice on how to make sure everyone has enough. And not merely enough […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured

Perspective

January 7, 2021 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

No doubt, all of us have watched multiple recaps of events at the U.S. Capitol on January 6th. Epiphany. Perhaps it was calendar coincidence that counting and certifying the electoral […]

Perspective

January 7, 2021 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

No doubt, all of us have watched multiple recaps of events at the U.S. Capitol on January 6th. Epiphany. Perhaps it was calendar coincidence that counting and certifying the electoral […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured

Advent Guide: Third Sunday, December 13

December 11, 2020 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from The Heart of the Work, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is […]

Advent Guide: Third Sunday, December 13

December 11, 2020 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from The Heart of the Work, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is […]

Filed Under: Blog

Healthcare for All

December 10, 2020 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Jennifer Copeland at a press conference at the General Assembly on Healthcare for all this morning. There’s a story in the Gospel of Luke […]

Healthcare for All

December 10, 2020 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Jennifer Copeland at a press conference at the General Assembly on Healthcare for all this morning. There’s a story in the Gospel of Luke […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured

2020 Advent Guide: The Heart of the Work

November 30, 2020 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

As I write these words (early enough for compilation, printing, and delivery into your hands), we are all watching polls, listening to commentators, and considering how best to cast a […]

2020 Advent Guide: The Heart of the Work

November 30, 2020 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

As I write these words (early enough for compilation, printing, and delivery into your hands), we are all watching polls, listening to commentators, and considering how best to cast a […]

Filed Under: Blog

Raise the Wage

November 23, 2020 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

My faith tradition professes that our worth is in our faces because our faces look like God’s face. We are created in the Image of God, making each human face […]

Raise the Wage

November 23, 2020 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

My faith tradition professes that our worth is in our faces because our faces look like God’s face. We are created in the Image of God, making each human face […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Economic Justice, Good Government, Living Wage

God’s Democracy

November 6, 2020 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

There was no recognizable democracy for the people and places reflected in the Old and New Testaments. It was mostly clans and tribes eventually giving way to monarch rule. In […]

God’s Democracy

November 6, 2020 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

There was no recognizable democracy for the people and places reflected in the Old and New Testaments. It was mostly clans and tribes eventually giving way to monarch rule. In […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured

Day of [Ringing] Prayer

May 5, 2020 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The North Carolina Council of Churches is offering a modification to the typical National Day of Prayer, celebrated each year on the first Thursday of May. Borrowing an idea from […]

Day of [Ringing] Prayer

May 5, 2020 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The North Carolina Council of Churches is offering a modification to the typical National Day of Prayer, celebrated each year on the first Thursday of May. Borrowing an idea from […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured

Faithful Responses to COVID 19

March 13, 2020 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Handwashing, covering sneezes, and social distancing techniques abound. We recommend the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services’ guidelines. Meanwhile, our friends in Seattle and Italy tell us we […]

Faithful Responses to COVID 19

March 13, 2020 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Handwashing, covering sneezes, and social distancing techniques abound. We recommend the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services’ guidelines. Meanwhile, our friends in Seattle and Italy tell us we […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Health

Lenten Guide – Ash Wednesday

February 25, 2020 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from Power Made Perfect in Weakness, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 58:1-12 Shout out, do not hold back!Lift up […]

Lenten Guide – Ash Wednesday

February 25, 2020 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from Power Made Perfect in Weakness, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 58:1-12 Shout out, do not hold back!Lift up […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Worship

In God’s Eye

February 24, 2020 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland, on Sunday, February 23 at St. Lawrence University in Canton, New York focusing on Matthew 17: 1-9. From the Gospel […]

In God’s Eye

February 24, 2020 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland, on Sunday, February 23 at St. Lawrence University in Canton, New York focusing on Matthew 17: 1-9. From the Gospel […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Worship

Give Us a Budget

January 21, 2020 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

North Carolina needs a budget. With half the fiscal year gone (the year began July 1, 2019) we are operating with a budget that is more than a year old. […]

Give Us a Budget

January 21, 2020 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

North Carolina needs a budget. With half the fiscal year gone (the year began July 1, 2019) we are operating with a budget that is more than a year old. […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: N.C. General Assembly, State Budget

No More of This

December 17, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks from Jennifer Copeland at the Vigil to End Gun Violence in Durham on December 13, 2019 About two years ago, the North Carolina Council of Churches paid for a […]

No More of This

December 17, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks from Jennifer Copeland at the Vigil to End Gun Violence in Durham on December 13, 2019 About two years ago, the North Carolina Council of Churches paid for a […]

Filed Under: Blog

Advent Guide: First Sunday, December 1

December 1, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from Cultivating Care for Creation, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 122 I was glad when they said to me, […]

Advent Guide: First Sunday, December 1

December 1, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from Cultivating Care for Creation, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 122 I was glad when they said to me, […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Environment

Gun Violence Prevention: The Work Goes On

November 18, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The North Carolina Council of Churches has long cared about gun violence prevention — you would expect that from an organization that devotes much of its energy toward PEACE. A […]

Gun Violence Prevention: The Work Goes On

November 18, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The North Carolina Council of Churches has long cared about gun violence prevention — you would expect that from an organization that devotes much of its energy toward PEACE. A […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Good Government, Gun Violence

Be Different.

July 29, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sermon on II Kings 6:8-23 delivered Sunday, July 28 at First Presbyterian Church in Durham. Who would pass up the chance to preach on this marvelous little story in Second […]

Be Different.

July 29, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sermon on II Kings 6:8-23 delivered Sunday, July 28 at First Presbyterian Church in Durham. Who would pass up the chance to preach on this marvelous little story in Second […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Podcasts

Be Different.

July 29, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sermon on II Kings 6:8-23 delivered Sunday, July 28 at First Presbyterian Church in Durham.Audio from Jennifer’s sermon Who would pass up the chance to preach on this marvelous little […]

Be Different.

July 29, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sermon on II Kings 6:8-23 delivered Sunday, July 28 at First Presbyterian Church in Durham.Audio from Jennifer’s sermon Who would pass up the chance to preach on this marvelous little […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Podcasts

A Shameful Anniversary: The Minimum Wage

July 26, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

It has been 10 years since Congress raised the minimum wage. Some states have raised their minimum without a federal mandate, but not North Carolina. This 10-year span follows on […]

A Shameful Anniversary: The Minimum Wage

July 26, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

It has been 10 years since Congress raised the minimum wage. Some states have raised their minimum without a federal mandate, but not North Carolina. This 10-year span follows on […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Living Wage

A Shameful Anniversary: The Minimum Wage

July 26, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

It has been 10 years since Congress raised the minimum wage. Some states have raised their minimum without a federal mandate, but not North Carolina. This 10-year span follows on […]

A Shameful Anniversary: The Minimum Wage

July 26, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

It has been 10 years since Congress raised the minimum wage. Some states have raised their minimum without a federal mandate, but not North Carolina. This 10-year span follows on […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Living Wage

Let Justice Roll: Sustain the Veto

July 2, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Thus says the Lord:For three transgressions of Israel, and for four, I will not revoke the punishment;because they sell the righteous for silver, and the needy for a pair of […]

Let Justice Roll: Sustain the Veto

July 2, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Thus says the Lord:For three transgressions of Israel, and for four, I will not revoke the punishment;because they sell the righteous for silver, and the needy for a pair of […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Good Government, Healthcare Reform, Public Education, State Budget

Staying Sane: Gun Laws that Work

June 17, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The Mother Emanuel, Charleston, SC, shooting was four years ago today, June 17. The N.C. General Assembly Senate Judiciary Committee will consider Senate Bill 90 tomorrow, June 18. A favorable […]

Staying Sane: Gun Laws that Work

June 17, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The Mother Emanuel, Charleston, SC, shooting was four years ago today, June 17. The N.C. General Assembly Senate Judiciary Committee will consider Senate Bill 90 tomorrow, June 18. A favorable […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Good Government, Gun Violence

Bright Light on Interfaith Life

June 14, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

While the headlines tell us about very real instances of violence against faith communities (a synagogue in Pittsburgh, a mosque in New Zealand, a sikh temple in Wisconsin, a church […]

Bright Light on Interfaith Life

June 14, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

While the headlines tell us about very real instances of violence against faith communities (a synagogue in Pittsburgh, a mosque in New Zealand, a sikh temple in Wisconsin, a church […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Interfaith, Peace

North Carolina, Gethsemane and Torture

April 30, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a press conference introducing House Bill 740 to end North Carolina’s role in torture. All the people who spoke […]

North Carolina, Gethsemane and Torture

April 30, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a press conference introducing House Bill 740 to end North Carolina’s role in torture. All the people who spoke […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Good Government, Torture

Workers’ Memorial

April 26, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director of the NC Council of Churches, at the Workers’ Memorial in Raleigh on April 26, 2019. Genesis 5:1-5 This is […]

Workers’ Memorial

April 26, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director of the NC Council of Churches, at the Workers’ Memorial in Raleigh on April 26, 2019. Genesis 5:1-5 This is […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Good Government

Lenten Guide – Easter Sunday

April 21, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from the Council’s 2019 Lenten Reflection Guide for Lectionary Year C. Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and […]

Lenten Guide – Easter Sunday

April 21, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from the Council’s 2019 Lenten Reflection Guide for Lectionary Year C. Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured

Medicaid Expansion: Doing the Right Thing

April 19, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The people of North Carolina pay federal taxes. Our tax dollars help fund the 90 percent federal match on Medicaid expansion enrollees for states that have expanded Medicaid under the […]

Medicaid Expansion: Doing the Right Thing

April 19, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The people of North Carolina pay federal taxes. Our tax dollars help fund the 90 percent federal match on Medicaid expansion enrollees for states that have expanded Medicaid under the […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Health, Healthcare Reform, Medicaid

Sacrificial Lambs and Scapegoats

April 18, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered at the Witness for Peace footwashing ceremony at the gates of Aero Contractors earlier today. Every year, all over the world, millions of Christians spend six intense weeks […]

Sacrificial Lambs and Scapegoats

April 18, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered at the Witness for Peace footwashing ceremony at the gates of Aero Contractors earlier today. Every year, all over the world, millions of Christians spend six intense weeks […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Peace

A Prayer for Teachers

March 25, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following words were delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland on Friday, March 22 as the opening invocation of the North Carolina Association of Educators State Convention. Gracious and loving […]

A Prayer for Teachers

March 25, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following words were delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland on Friday, March 22 as the opening invocation of the North Carolina Association of Educators State Convention. Gracious and loving […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Public Education

The Gospel and Closing the Medicaid Gap

March 21, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a press conference earlier today on Medicaid expansion and raising awareness of the opioid crisis. In 1935 the North […]

The Gospel and Closing the Medicaid Gap

March 21, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a press conference earlier today on Medicaid expansion and raising awareness of the opioid crisis. In 1935 the North […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Health, Healthcare Reform

Prayer for Raising Wages

March 19, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Jennifer Copeland as the opening invocation to the Raising Wages press conference held in the press room of the NC General Assembly this morning. […]

Prayer for Raising Wages

March 19, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Jennifer Copeland as the opening invocation to the Raising Wages press conference held in the press room of the NC General Assembly this morning. […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured

Methodism Amuck

March 11, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

We are a few weeks out from the 2019 Special General Conference of the United Methodist Church, a gathering many of us were anticipating since 2016. In truth, we were […]

Methodism Amuck

March 11, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

We are a few weeks out from the 2019 Special General Conference of the United Methodist Church, a gathering many of us were anticipating since 2016. In truth, we were […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: LGBTQ

Gail Phares to receive Faith Active in Public Life Award

February 14, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Each time the Council holds its bi-annual Legislative Seminar, we honor those whose public lives reflect their faith commitments. The Faith Active in Public Life Award calls attention to someone […]

Gail Phares to receive Faith Active in Public Life Award

February 14, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Each time the Council holds its bi-annual Legislative Seminar, we honor those whose public lives reflect their faith commitments. The Faith Active in Public Life Award calls attention to someone […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Council News

Make a Way for the Children to Come

January 28, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Closing remarks made by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at the Council’s Public Education Summit on Friday, January 25. The Council placed a billboard along I-40 last summer, echoing the attention […]

Make a Way for the Children to Come

January 28, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Closing remarks made by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at the Council’s Public Education Summit on Friday, January 25. The Council placed a billboard along I-40 last summer, echoing the attention […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Public Education

Vetting the Vote: Gun Sanity

November 1, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

As if we need to be reminded of the preponderance of guns and gun-related violence on our streets, we’ve had served up for us in the closing days before the […]

Vetting the Vote: Gun Sanity

November 1, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

As if we need to be reminded of the preponderance of guns and gun-related violence on our streets, we’ve had served up for us in the closing days before the […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence, vettingthevote

The Courage is Already Ours

October 22, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sermon originally delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland on Sunday, October 21 at Community United Church of Christ in Raleigh. Right now there are thousands of people walking from Honduras […]

The Courage is Already Ours

October 22, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sermon originally delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland on Sunday, October 21 at Community United Church of Christ in Raleigh. Right now there are thousands of people walking from Honduras […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Immigration

On the Ballot: Harmful Changes to State Constitution

October 18, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks originally delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a press conference on Tuesday, October 16. We stand before you today as faith leaders supporting many traditions. We have joined […]

On the Ballot: Harmful Changes to State Constitution

October 18, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks originally delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a press conference on Tuesday, October 16. We stand before you today as faith leaders supporting many traditions. We have joined […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: vettingthevote

In God’s Image

October 1, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at the North Carolina Commission of Inquiry on Torture’s press conference on Thursday, September 27. The press conference marked the […]

In God’s Image

October 1, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at the North Carolina Commission of Inquiry on Torture’s press conference on Thursday, September 27. The press conference marked the […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Peace, Torture

Vetting the Vote: Support N.C. Workers

September 27, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sign Me Up! That was the rallying cry of delegates at the AFL-CIO state conference. Of course, all of them—and I—had already signed up. We believe in the power of […]

Vetting the Vote: Support N.C. Workers

September 27, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sign Me Up! That was the rallying cry of delegates at the AFL-CIO state conference. Of course, all of them—and I—had already signed up. We believe in the power of […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: vettingthevote

Bright Spot: Perseverance Pays Off

September 24, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Recently, two stalwart champions of justice, Christina Cowger and Allyson Caison, received the annual Joshua Heintz Humanitarian Award from the Robert H. Jackson Center in Syracuse, NY. The mission of […]

Bright Spot: Perseverance Pays Off

September 24, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Recently, two stalwart champions of justice, Christina Cowger and Allyson Caison, received the annual Joshua Heintz Humanitarian Award from the Robert H. Jackson Center in Syracuse, NY. The mission of […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Peace, Torture

After the Storm

September 20, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

As the flood waters recede–slow as that is–our focus shifts from survival to recovery. Having weathered a few of these storms, now arriving with increased frequency, we know that recovery […]

After the Storm

September 20, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

As the flood waters recede–slow as that is–our focus shifts from survival to recovery. Having weathered a few of these storms, now arriving with increased frequency, we know that recovery […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured

The Work Ahead

September 20, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following prayer was delivered this morning as the opening invocation of the AFL-CIO North Carolina State Convention: God of majesty and wonder, you have said to us in one […]

The Work Ahead

September 20, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following prayer was delivered this morning as the opening invocation of the AFL-CIO North Carolina State Convention: God of majesty and wonder, you have said to us in one […]

Filed Under: Blog

Vetting the Vote

September 13, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Most people pay attention during presidential election cycles and many of them come out to vote. The numbers are not as healthy during midterm elections (40% v. 60%). In spite […]

Vetting the Vote

September 13, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Most people pay attention during presidential election cycles and many of them come out to vote. The numbers are not as healthy during midterm elections (40% v. 60%). In spite […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Good Government, vettingthevote

Council Calls for More Support for Public Education

June 22, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The North Carolina Council of Churches has unveiled our latest billboard. This time we set our sights on Public Education. The billboard is located on I-40 East at Mile Marker […]

Council Calls for More Support for Public Education

June 22, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The North Carolina Council of Churches has unveiled our latest billboard. This time we set our sights on Public Education. The billboard is located on I-40 East at Mile Marker […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: N.C. General Assembly, Public Education, State Budget

Support the Work of the Council

June 8, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Dear Friends, Like Esther, the NC Council of Churches finds itself heeding the call “for such a time as this.” Unlike Esther, we do not need an uncle to persuade […]

Support the Work of the Council

June 8, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Dear Friends, Like Esther, the NC Council of Churches finds itself heeding the call “for such a time as this.” Unlike Esther, we do not need an uncle to persuade […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Council News

No More Mottos

May 25, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Hours after teachers marched on Raleigh to talk about funding needs for their schools, their students, and, yes, even themselves, a bill was introduced in the N.C. General Assembly to […]

No More Mottos

May 25, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Hours after teachers marched on Raleigh to talk about funding needs for their schools, their students, and, yes, even themselves, a bill was introduced in the N.C. General Assembly to […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Public Education, State Budget

Violence and Guns

May 23, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered at the Community Conversation on Gun Violence on May 15, 2018 at Wake Forest Presbyterian Church. God knows that we are a violent people. It’s been this way […]

Violence and Guns

May 23, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered at the Community Conversation on Gun Violence on May 15, 2018 at Wake Forest Presbyterian Church. God knows that we are a violent people. It’s been this way […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence

Building Up Our Schools

May 4, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

“Build a Church, then Build a School.” Chief among the instructions for John Wesley’s itinerant ministers was this directive about education. Methodists are not the only faith group to grasp […]

Building Up Our Schools

May 4, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

“Build a Church, then Build a School.” Chief among the instructions for John Wesley’s itinerant ministers was this directive about education. Methodists are not the only faith group to grasp […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Public Education

Politics of Eating

April 24, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sermon originally delivered at the Jack Crum Conference at Highlands United Methodist Church in Raleigh on Saturday, April 21. The primary text was Isaiah 55:1-9. My parents have an amazing […]

Politics of Eating

April 24, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sermon originally delivered at the Jack Crum Conference at Highlands United Methodist Church in Raleigh on Saturday, April 21. The primary text was Isaiah 55:1-9. My parents have an amazing […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Community Gardens, Economic Justice, Environment, Farmworkers, Food, Health, Hunger

Partner Congregations Provide Sanctuary for Woman in Chapel Hill

April 17, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a March 17 press conference in Chapel Hill on the Sanctuary Movement. At the North Carolina Council of Churches, we don’t pretend […]

Partner Congregations Provide Sanctuary for Woman in Chapel Hill

April 17, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a March 17 press conference in Chapel Hill on the Sanctuary Movement. At the North Carolina Council of Churches, we don’t pretend […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Farmworkers, Immigration

The Second Commandment

April 16, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

When the news broke about the North Carolina Council of Churches billboard suggesting a connection between guns and idolatry, responses ran from, “Thank you for naming the truth,” to “How […]

The Second Commandment

April 16, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

When the news broke about the North Carolina Council of Churches billboard suggesting a connection between guns and idolatry, responses ran from, “Thank you for naming the truth,” to “How […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence

Council Posts Billboard about Gun Violence

April 5, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

On your drive along I-85/40 outside of Mebane, look for our billboard on the side of the road. It will go up this week and stay in place for the […]

Council Posts Billboard about Gun Violence

April 5, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

On your drive along I-85/40 outside of Mebane, look for our billboard on the side of the road. It will go up this week and stay in place for the […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Council News, Gun Violence

Soul of Appalachia

March 29, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks originally delivered March 23 at The State of the Soul of Appalachia conference in Pipestem State Park in West Virginia. The heavens are telling the glory of God; and […]

Soul of Appalachia

March 29, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks originally delivered March 23 at The State of the Soul of Appalachia conference in Pipestem State Park in West Virginia. The heavens are telling the glory of God; and […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Environment

It’s Only 40 Days

February 19, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sermon delivered by Jennifer Copeland yesterday, Sunday, February 18 at Millford Hills United Methodist Church in Salisbury, NC. The lectionary texts were Genesis 9:8-17 and Mark 1:9-15. 40 days–rain! 40 […]

It’s Only 40 Days

February 19, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sermon delivered by Jennifer Copeland yesterday, Sunday, February 18 at Millford Hills United Methodist Church in Salisbury, NC. The lectionary texts were Genesis 9:8-17 and Mark 1:9-15. 40 days–rain! 40 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Environment, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, Peace, Public Education

Lenten Guide: Ash Wednesday

February 14, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” We entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to […]

Lenten Guide: Ash Wednesday

February 14, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” We entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Worship

Be Reconciled

February 9, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Black History month is North Carolina Council of Churches’ history starting in 1935 because our history is founded on the black experience as seen through the eyes of the white […]

Be Reconciled

February 9, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Black History month is North Carolina Council of Churches’ history starting in 1935 because our history is founded on the black experience as seen through the eyes of the white […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Council News, Equality & Reconciliation, Peace, Race/Ethnicity

Medicare for All

January 18, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks originally delivered at the Medicare for All Rally held in Durham on Saturday, January 13. We are the fortunate ones. We are here. We are able to be here. […]

Medicare for All

January 18, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks originally delivered at the Medicare for All Rally held in Durham on Saturday, January 13. We are the fortunate ones. We are here. We are able to be here. […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Healthcare Reform

Words Make a World

January 13, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The words we hear form what we think. The words we say form what we do. And when powerful people use words, the words have even more power. And so […]

Words Make a World

January 13, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The words we hear form what we think. The words we say form what we do. And when powerful people use words, the words have even more power. And so […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Good Government

That Resolution

January 1, 2018 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

We all do it and well we should–start the new year resolving to do better. Maybe it’s eat better, exercise more, or work less. The resolution itself quickly takes a […]

That Resolution

January 1, 2018 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

We all do it and well we should–start the new year resolving to do better. Maybe it’s eat better, exercise more, or work less. The resolution itself quickly takes a […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Council News, Peace

Christ’s Mass

December 25, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. …And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen […]

Christ’s Mass

December 25, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. …And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Peace

Congress: Hands Off New Rule Protecting Families from Payday Lenders

December 19, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Originally appeared in the Durham Herald and signed by both Larry Hall, Secretary of the NC Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, and Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director of the NC […]

Congress: Hands Off New Rule Protecting Families from Payday Lenders

December 19, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Originally appeared in the Durham Herald and signed by both Larry Hall, Secretary of the NC Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, and Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director of the NC […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Economic Justice

Advent Guide: First Sunday, December 3

December 2, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. “But in those days, following that distress, the sun will […]

Advent Guide: First Sunday, December 3

December 2, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. “But in those days, following that distress, the sun will […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Worship

Jesus, Money, and Taxes

December 1, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks offered at a press conference on tax reform at the North Carolina State Capitol on Monday, November 29. For those of us who mark time a little differently than […]

Jesus, Money, and Taxes

December 1, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks offered at a press conference on tax reform at the North Carolina State Capitol on Monday, November 29. For those of us who mark time a little differently than […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Taxes

Support the Council on Giving Tuesday

November 27, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Dear Friends, Last year when we sent out our fall appeal requesting financial support for the work of the North Carolina Council of Churches we were only days past the […]

Support the Council on Giving Tuesday

November 27, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Dear Friends, Last year when we sent out our fall appeal requesting financial support for the work of the North Carolina Council of Churches we were only days past the […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Council News, Immigration, Taxes

Thanksgiving Notes

November 22, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Psalm 100 Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come into his presence with singing. Know that the Lord is God. It […]

Thanksgiving Notes

November 22, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Psalm 100 Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come into his presence with singing. Know that the Lord is God. It […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Christian Unity, Farmworkers, Health

Creating Peace

November 6, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

If we are not angry today, we have no faith. If we are not frustrated today, we have no hope. If we are not bereaved today, we have no love. […]

Creating Peace

November 6, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

If we are not angry today, we have no faith. If we are not frustrated today, we have no hope. If we are not bereaved today, we have no love. […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence, Peace

Democracy Under the Reign of God

November 1, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

As I continue to follow court cases addressing Gerrymandering at both the federal level (Gill v. Whitford) and in North Carolina (Common Cause v. Rucho), along with the latest move […]

Democracy Under the Reign of God

November 1, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

As I continue to follow court cases addressing Gerrymandering at both the federal level (Gill v. Whitford) and in North Carolina (Common Cause v. Rucho), along with the latest move […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Elections, Good Government, Healthcare Reform, Redistricting, Religion & Society

Lament for Las Vegas

October 2, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

There are no words… and so my words come from the Psalms where laments make up the largest category. This lament from a portion of Psalm 142: With my voice […]

Lament for Las Vegas

October 2, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

There are no words… and so my words come from the Psalms where laments make up the largest category. This lament from a portion of Psalm 142: With my voice […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence, Violence

Increased Energy Rates, Decreased Funds for Missions

September 26, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks offered at the Duke Energy Progress Rate Increase hearing on Monday, September 25. Right now I have the privilege or the pain of owning two houses in Durham, NC. […]

Increased Energy Rates, Decreased Funds for Missions

September 26, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks offered at the Duke Energy Progress Rate Increase hearing on Monday, September 25. Right now I have the privilege or the pain of owning two houses in Durham, NC. […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured

Regaining our Faith in Democracy

September 11, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

In surveys conducted during the months leading up to the 2016 election, large numbers of Americans reported little interest in the political process. They said things like, “nothing will change,” […]

Regaining our Faith in Democracy

September 11, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

In surveys conducted during the months leading up to the 2016 election, large numbers of Americans reported little interest in the political process. They said things like, “nothing will change,” […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Civil Liberties, Elections, Good Government, N.C. General Assembly, Redistricting, Religion & Society

The Infection in Our Democracy

August 25, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

On April 26, 1865, my great-great-grandfather was camped a mere five miles from where I now live in Durham, NC. He was from the upstate of South Carolina, as am […]

The Infection in Our Democracy

August 25, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

On April 26, 1865, my great-great-grandfather was camped a mere five miles from where I now live in Durham, NC. He was from the upstate of South Carolina, as am […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Civil Discourse, Equality & Reconciliation, Peace, Race/Ethnicity

In the Face of Violence

August 18, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Today, Friday, August 18, 2017, South Main in Durham, NC, is closed to traffic. Civil employees have been sent home. Some banks and many businesses in the downtown area have […]

In the Face of Violence

August 18, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Today, Friday, August 18, 2017, South Main in Durham, NC, is closed to traffic. Civil employees have been sent home. Some banks and many businesses in the downtown area have […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Peace, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, Violence

Wages of War

July 20, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Wartime profits are a thing — from the people who make the machines we use to kill other people to the garment factories that provide clothing for the people who […]

Wages of War

July 20, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Wartime profits are a thing — from the people who make the machines we use to kill other people to the garment factories that provide clothing for the people who […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Good Government, Human Rights, Interfaith, Mental Health, Peace, Prophetic Voice, Religion & Society

America’s Role in Torture — Beginning the Path to Forgiveness

July 9, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

With so many issues confronting us, our nation’s involvement in acts of torture is fading from the public’s priorities for concern. Five years and $40 million in the making, the […]

America’s Role in Torture — Beginning the Path to Forgiveness

July 9, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

With so many issues confronting us, our nation’s involvement in acts of torture is fading from the public’s priorities for concern. Five years and $40 million in the making, the […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Civil Liberties, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Peace, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society

Healing Miracles

July 7, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Just then there appeared a woman with a spirit that had crippled her for eighteen years. She was bent over and was quite unable to stand up straight. When Jesus […]

Healing Miracles

July 7, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Just then there appeared a woman with a spirit that had crippled her for eighteen years. She was bent over and was quite unable to stand up straight. When Jesus […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Economic Justice, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Religion & Society, Taxes

What Gives Me Hope

May 22, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered at the NC Justice Center’s 2017 Defenders of Justice Awards where the Council was recognized for Grassroots Empowerment. In 1960 Terry Sanford ran for Governor of NC. By […]

What Gives Me Hope

May 22, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered at the NC Justice Center’s 2017 Defenders of Justice Awards where the Council was recognized for Grassroots Empowerment. In 1960 Terry Sanford ran for Governor of NC. By […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Council News, Religion & Society

2017 Stand Up Sabbath — June 16-18

May 15, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

About this time two years ago, I accepted the offer to become the next Executive Director of the NC Council of Churches. We agreed that I would spend two weeks […]

2017 Stand Up Sabbath — June 16-18

May 15, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

About this time two years ago, I accepted the offer to become the next Executive Director of the NC Council of Churches. We agreed that I would spend two weeks […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Council News, Criminal Justice, Good Government, Gun Violence, Interfaith, Mental Health, N.C. General Assembly, Peace, Religion & Society, Worship

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