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Statement on the Shootings in Charleston

June 18, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

With people across the world, the North Carolina Council of Churches grieves with the congregation of Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, SC. This kind of violence against people […]

Statement on the Shootings in Charleston

June 18, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Refugees Find Hope in Meeting With Each Other

June 17, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern Storytelling is a central piece of community organizing because through it you offer your listener a way into your life in an organized […]

Refugees Find Hope in Meeting With Each Other

June 17, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern Storytelling is a central piece of community organizing because through it you offer your listener a way into your life in an organized […]

Sad Signals on Tolerance, Rule of Law

June 14, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Gov. Pat McCrory tried to warn his fellow Republicans who call the tunes in the General Assembly. The rule of law was at stake, McCrory said, and the state would […]

Sad Signals on Tolerance, Rule of Law

June 14, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Gov. Pat McCrory tried to warn his fellow Republicans who call the tunes in the General Assembly. The rule of law was at stake, McCrory said, and the state would […]

The Pope and Ecology: Shouts from the Highest Steeple

June 12, 2015 By Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

The excitement is building: for the first time in history, the Pope is issuing an encyclical on the environment… but wait, why is this important? First, the Pope presides over […]

The Pope and Ecology: Shouts from the Highest Steeple

June 12, 2015 by Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

The excitement is building: for the first time in history, the Pope is issuing an encyclical on the environment… but wait, why is this important? First, the Pope presides over […]

George’s Retirement Luncheon — Thanks to All~

June 8, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

There were so many hands, heads, and hearts that made the retirement luncheon for George Reed a joyful event, that it’s impossible to thank all involved. The short list of […]

George’s Retirement Luncheon — Thanks to All~

June 8, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

There were so many hands, heads, and hearts that made the retirement luncheon for George Reed a joyful event, that it’s impossible to thank all involved. The short list of […]

Congratulations to Harriette Thompson

June 7, 2015 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Photo via Telesport.al In my decades in North Carolina, first with the NC Baptist State Convention and then with the NC Council of Churches, I’ve known and worked with lots […]

Congratulations to Harriette Thompson

June 7, 2015 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Photo via Telesport.al In my decades in North Carolina, first with the NC Baptist State Convention and then with the NC Council of Churches, I’ve known and worked with lots […]

Veto Overriders Flex Their Muscles

June 6, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina’s General Assembly has muddled through many undistinguished moments since conservative Republicans took charge four years ago. Now, with an ongoing cascade of wrongheaded decisions, it’s adding to that […]

Veto Overriders Flex Their Muscles

June 6, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Leadership and Hope at the Margins

June 5, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern This past Tuesday, more than 200 people celebrated the career of NC Council of Churches Executive Director George Reed before his retirement at […]

Leadership and Hope at the Margins

June 5, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern This past Tuesday, more than 200 people celebrated the career of NC Council of Churches Executive Director George Reed before his retirement at […]

Come to the Table Conference Feeds the Soul

June 4, 2015 By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

“It’s like a mini-family reunion” said one participant about the Come to the Table Conference that happened at Elon Community Church on Thursday, May 28. There were many encounters that […]

Come to the Table Conference Feeds the Soul

June 4, 2015 by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

“It’s like a mini-family reunion” said one participant about the Come to the Table Conference that happened at Elon Community Church on Thursday, May 28. There were many encounters that […]

Via Vetoes, McCrory Declares Independence

June 3, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Anticipation of an unpleasant event – gallows humorists usually cite the prospect of being hanged – is said to concentrate the mind. Although 17 months will pass before North Carolina […]

Via Vetoes, McCrory Declares Independence

June 3, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Anticipation of an unpleasant event – gallows humorists usually cite the prospect of being hanged – is said to concentrate the mind. Although 17 months will pass before North Carolina […]

Bills Wink at Polluters, Abusers

May 28, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For a boatload of lofty, noble and wise sentiments, look no farther than the opening fanfares of Chapter 113A, Article 1, N.C. General Statutes. The reference is to a law […]

Bills Wink at Polluters, Abusers

May 28, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For a boatload of lofty, noble and wise sentiments, look no farther than the opening fanfares of Chapter 113A, Article 1, N.C. General Statutes. The reference is to a law […]

Republican Budget makes Republicans Fume — Updated

May 21, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Let’s admit it – we were fooled. We never realized that the N.C. House of Representatives, with Republicans firmly in charge, was a nest of liberals. At least that must […]

Republican Budget makes Republicans Fume — Updated

May 21, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Let’s admit it – we were fooled. We never realized that the N.C. House of Representatives, with Republicans firmly in charge, was a nest of liberals. At least that must […]

Revenue Boosts and Tax-cut Boasts

May 16, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The rooster crowed. The sun came up. The rooster puffed his feathered chest as he beheld his magnificent handiwork. Phil Berger led the state Senate in cutting taxes. Revenues nudged […]

Revenue Boosts and Tax-cut Boasts

May 16, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The rooster crowed. The sun came up. The rooster puffed his feathered chest as he beheld his magnificent handiwork. Phil Berger led the state Senate in cutting taxes. Revenues nudged […]

This Millennial’s Response to the Pew Research Center Study

May 15, 2015 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

I am a millennial. I was also born and raised in the church and have continued to participate in church my entire life. I am soon to be married in […]

This Millennial’s Response to the Pew Research Center Study

May 15, 2015 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

I am a millennial. I was also born and raised in the church and have continued to participate in church my entire life. I am soon to be married in […]

David LaMotte on the Fair Food Program

May 11, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council’s Farmworker Ministry Committee has long been supportive of the Coalition of Immokalee Workers and its efforts on behalf of those who work in the fields. The Committee has […]

David LaMotte on the Fair Food Program

May 11, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council’s Farmworker Ministry Committee has long been supportive of the Coalition of Immokalee Workers and its efforts on behalf of those who work in the fields. The Committee has […]

When Lawmakers Itch to Execute

May 7, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The last person to be put to death by the State of North Carolina – in other words, put to death on behalf of all of us who live here […]

When Lawmakers Itch to Execute

May 7, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The last person to be put to death by the State of North Carolina – in other words, put to death on behalf of all of us who live here […]

At the Legislature, a Fateful Crossing

April 30, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

With its self-imposed April 30 “crossover” deadline, the General Assembly can sidetrack bills that haven’t gained enough support to make them worth fussing with during the remainder of the legislative […]

At the Legislature, a Fateful Crossing

April 30, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Council Puts Hot Topics on the Table

March 16, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The mission of the NC Council of Churches extends into many areas that highlight the links between faith and public policies. And of the various events and activities sponsored by […]

Council Puts Hot Topics on the Table

March 16, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The mission of the NC Council of Churches extends into many areas that highlight the links between faith and public policies. And of the various events and activities sponsored by […]

Coming to the Seminar? Bring a Friend!

March 11, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council’s 2015 Legislative Seminar is about a month away, and we have an exciting program of preachers, workshops, and presenters planned. If you’ve already registered to be with us, […]

Coming to the Seminar? Bring a Friend!

March 11, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council’s 2015 Legislative Seminar is about a month away, and we have an exciting program of preachers, workshops, and presenters planned. If you’ve already registered to be with us, […]

Second Edition of “Come to the Table Guidebook” Released

March 10, 2015 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

In 2008, the first “Come to the Table Guidebook” was released. Claire Hermann, Laura Beach, and Chris Liu-Beers of the North Carolina Council of Churches were the contributors. The original […]

Second Edition of “Come to the Table Guidebook” Released

March 10, 2015 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

In 2008, the first “Come to the Table Guidebook” was released. Claire Hermann, Laura Beach, and Chris Liu-Beers of the North Carolina Council of Churches were the contributors. The original […]

Register for 2015 Legislative Seminar — Updated with Workshops and Presenters

March 3, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Join us on April 14 at Greenwood Forest Baptist Church in Cary for the Council’s 2015 Legislative Seminar. Held every two years, the Seminar equips people of faith with the […]

Register for 2015 Legislative Seminar — Updated with Workshops and Presenters

March 3, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Join us on April 14 at Greenwood Forest Baptist Church in Cary for the Council’s 2015 Legislative Seminar. Held every two years, the Seminar equips people of faith with the […]

A Guide to the Christian Food Movement

March 3, 2015 By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

In these opening years of the twenty-first century, the need for a more sustainable food system has increasingly become a focus of our national conversation. As a Christian, sometime in […]

A Guide to the Christian Food Movement

March 3, 2015 by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

In these opening years of the twenty-first century, the need for a more sustainable food system has increasingly become a focus of our national conversation. As a Christian, sometime in […]

Doomed UNC Centers Sang the Wrong Songs

March 2, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

It’s easy to imagine what the conservative Republicans who rule North Carolina’s legislative roost were thinking: “Here we’ve gone to all the trouble to take control of the General Assembly. […]

Doomed UNC Centers Sang the Wrong Songs

March 2, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Time to Uphold UNC’s Anti-Poverty Mission

February 22, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

One can say this about UNC-Chapel Hill’s Gene Nichol without fear of contradiction: He doesn’t seem to know when to keep his mouth shut or his keyboard quiet. Good for […]

Time to Uphold UNC’s Anti-Poverty Mission

February 22, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

One can say this about UNC-Chapel Hill’s Gene Nichol without fear of contradiction: He doesn’t seem to know when to keep his mouth shut or his keyboard quiet. Good for […]

Snow Days?

February 20, 2015 By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

This week has been full of weather disruptions. From school cancellations, missed Ash Wednesday services, to business closings, this has been a week of changed plans. So, here are a […]

Snow Days?

February 20, 2015 by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

This week has been full of weather disruptions. From school cancellations, missed Ash Wednesday services, to business closings, this has been a week of changed plans. So, here are a […]

Compassion Makes Good ‘Cents’ — It’s Affordable

February 20, 2015 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Our faiths call us to work for justice and show compassion for the “least of these.” Justice issues can also make such good economic sense that we cannot afford not […]

Compassion Makes Good ‘Cents’ — It’s Affordable

February 20, 2015 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Our faiths call us to work for justice and show compassion for the “least of these.” Justice issues can also make such good economic sense that we cannot afford not […]

Gene Nichol Won’t Let Us Ignore Poverty

February 19, 2015 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Gene Nichol was the recipient of the Council’s 2013 Faith Active in Public Life Award. (To see his keynote address at our 2013 Legislative Seminar, “It’s Better Not to Be […]

Gene Nichol Won’t Let Us Ignore Poverty

February 19, 2015 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Gene Nichol was the recipient of the Council’s 2013 Faith Active in Public Life Award. (To see his keynote address at our 2013 Legislative Seminar, “It’s Better Not to Be […]

Commentary About Torture Report Published

February 19, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

People of faith with Council connections have spoken out strongly on the Senate Intelligence Committee’s report on torture, calling for transparency. In particular, two recent opinion pieces call on Senator Richard Burr, […]

Commentary About Torture Report Published

February 19, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Grading the Schools: The Poverty Link

February 16, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The scheme ordered up by the conservatives who hold power in the NC General Assembly to assign a single letter grade to each of the state’s public schools – ostensibly […]

Grading the Schools: The Poverty Link

February 16, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The scheme ordered up by the conservatives who hold power in the NC General Assembly to assign a single letter grade to each of the state’s public schools – ostensibly […]

In Mourning

February 12, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The deaths of Razan Mohammad Abu-Salha, Yusor Mohammad Abu-Salha, and Deah Shaddy Barakat are an unspeakable tragedy. Whether officials eventually decide that they were murdered because they were Muslim, because […]

In Mourning

February 12, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Showing Love to Workers this Valentine’s Day

February 10, 2015 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Valentine’s Day marks one of the biggest shopping days of the year, especially when it comes to chocolate and flowers. But did you know that often your tokens of affection […]

Showing Love to Workers this Valentine’s Day

February 10, 2015 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Valentine’s Day marks one of the biggest shopping days of the year, especially when it comes to chocolate and flowers. But did you know that often your tokens of affection […]

Join us for HKonJ 2015

February 9, 2015 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

In these challenging days in North Carolina, there is nothing more important for people of faith who support progressive and prophetic public policies to do than to take part in […]

Join us for HKonJ 2015

February 9, 2015 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

In these challenging days in North Carolina, there is nothing more important for people of faith who support progressive and prophetic public policies to do than to take part in […]

Remembering Sydnor Thompson

February 3, 2015 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

We received word last week of the passing of Sydnor Thompson Jr. less than a month shy of his 91st birthday. There are few people who have a longer history […]

Remembering Sydnor Thompson

February 3, 2015 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

We received word last week of the passing of Sydnor Thompson Jr. less than a month shy of his 91st birthday. There are few people who have a longer history […]

NCIPL Invitation — Join the National Preach-In on Global Warming

February 2, 2015 By Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

This may be the biggest Preach-In yet, and you don’t want to miss it! More than 3,000 faith communities all over the US may preach or hold educational events on Valentine’s […]

NCIPL Invitation — Join the National Preach-In on Global Warming

February 2, 2015 by Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

This may be the biggest Preach-In yet, and you don’t want to miss it! More than 3,000 faith communities all over the US may preach or hold educational events on Valentine’s […]

Register Now for 2015 Faith and Immigration Summit

January 28, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

This year’s summit will focus on issues affecting children and youth coming to our state from Central America. Rev. Julio Ramirez-Eve will preach during opening worship and music will be […]

Register Now for 2015 Faith and Immigration Summit

January 28, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

This year’s summit will focus on issues affecting children and youth coming to our state from Central America. Rev. Julio Ramirez-Eve will preach during opening worship and music will be […]

What Frightens Civitas?

January 28, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Apparently I scare Civitas. Maybe it’s my upbringing. I was raised by a single mom (my parents divorced when I was a toddler) who was fortunate to have a solid […]

What Frightens Civitas?

January 28, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Apparently I scare Civitas. Maybe it’s my upbringing. I was raised by a single mom (my parents divorced when I was a toddler) who was fortunate to have a solid […]

NC Bread for the World Conference, March 28

January 25, 2015 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

When you think of hunger in our state — where one in four children lives in a food insecure family — we wonder what Jesus would have us do to “give […]

NC Bread for the World Conference, March 28

January 25, 2015 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

When you think of hunger in our state — where one in four children lives in a food insecure family — we wonder what Jesus would have us do to “give […]

ACA Open Enrollment Deadline — Feb. 15

January 16, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The open enrollment period for those seeking coverage through the Affordable Care Act ends on February 15. As NC Policy Watch’s Chris Fitzsimon pointed out shortly after this latest round of […]

ACA Open Enrollment Deadline — Feb. 15

January 16, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The open enrollment period for those seeking coverage through the Affordable Care Act ends on February 15. As NC Policy Watch’s Chris Fitzsimon pointed out shortly after this latest round of […]

Who Pays When It Comes to Taxes?

January 15, 2015 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

People who are poor pay a greater percentage of their income in taxes than do those who are wealthy. The NC Council of Churches joined many allied organizations two years […]

Who Pays When It Comes to Taxes?

January 15, 2015 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

People who are poor pay a greater percentage of their income in taxes than do those who are wealthy. The NC Council of Churches joined many allied organizations two years […]

Healthy Eating for You and the Planet

January 14, 2015 By Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

Many of us kick off the new year committed to healthier eating. In his words below, NCIPL Steering Committee Chair Carl Sigel suggests ways we can be better not just to ourselves […]

Healthy Eating for You and the Planet

January 14, 2015 by Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

Many of us kick off the new year committed to healthier eating. In his words below, NCIPL Steering Committee Chair Carl Sigel suggests ways we can be better not just to ourselves […]

Welcome EdNC to the Conversation

January 13, 2015 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Education has been of central importance to the NC Council of Churches throughout our history. Part of our opposition to segregation was support for a fully integrated public school system. […]

Welcome EdNC to the Conversation

January 13, 2015 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Education has been of central importance to the NC Council of Churches throughout our history. Part of our opposition to segregation was support for a fully integrated public school system. […]

2015 Ecumenical Prayer Calendar

January 8, 2015 By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

This Prayer for Unity and monthly ecumenical prayer calendar include by name the judicatories and congregations that are members of the North Carolina Council of Churches and the names of […]

2015 Ecumenical Prayer Calendar

January 8, 2015 by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

This Prayer for Unity and monthly ecumenical prayer calendar include by name the judicatories and congregations that are members of the North Carolina Council of Churches and the names of […]

Which Christmas Will We Embrace in NC?

January 8, 2015 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Now that Epiphany is over, we are looking back on Advent and Christmas, and remembering our celebrations — special time with family, special foods or gifts. An article in the […]

Which Christmas Will We Embrace in NC?

January 8, 2015 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Now that Epiphany is over, we are looking back on Advent and Christmas, and remembering our celebrations — special time with family, special foods or gifts. An article in the […]

District Lines Entangle Race, Politics

January 6, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The Republicans who rule North Carolina’s General Assembly start the new year riding tall in the saddle – and yes, we can imagine GOP legislators tipping their Stetsons to salute […]

District Lines Entangle Race, Politics

January 6, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The Republicans who rule North Carolina’s General Assembly start the new year riding tall in the saddle – and yes, we can imagine GOP legislators tipping their Stetsons to salute […]

Reclaiming Epiphany

January 3, 2015 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

January 6, the Feast of the Epiphany, is a time when Christians celebrate the arrival of the Magi from the East. The word Epiphany comes from the Greek word meaning […]

Reclaiming Epiphany

January 3, 2015 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

January 6, the Feast of the Epiphany, is a time when Christians celebrate the arrival of the Magi from the East. The word Epiphany comes from the Greek word meaning […]

Happy, Healthy New Year!

December 30, 2014 By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

This is the time of resolutions, health goals, hope for transformation and new beginnings. As you set your goals and make your plans for 2015, we at PHW hope we […]

Happy, Healthy New Year!

December 30, 2014 by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

This is the time of resolutions, health goals, hope for transformation and new beginnings. As you set your goals and make your plans for 2015, we at PHW hope we […]

So Long, 2014: It Wasn’t all Pretty!

December 29, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Of the many decisions and activities that unfold in the arena of public affairs, the ones that tend to show up on the NC Council of Churches’ radar are those […]

So Long, 2014: It Wasn’t all Pretty!

December 29, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Of the many decisions and activities that unfold in the arena of public affairs, the ones that tend to show up on the NC Council of Churches’ radar are those […]

How Your Church Can Help Prepare for Administrative Relief

December 28, 2014 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

On November 20, President Obama announced that his administration will make changes to immigration policy through an administrative relief program. This will include changing removal priorities, expanding Deferred Action for […]

How Your Church Can Help Prepare for Administrative Relief

December 28, 2014 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

With Gratitude

December 27, 2014 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As the year draws to a close, we offer sincere gratitude to all of you who have supported the Council with your gifts of time, talent, and treasure. You help […]

With Gratitude

December 27, 2014 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As the year draws to a close, we offer sincere gratitude to all of you who have supported the Council with your gifts of time, talent, and treasure. You help […]

Pushing Back Against the Grinch

December 24, 2014 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

On the third Sunday of Advent, the New York Times ran an essay by Arthur C. Brooks, president of the American Enterprise Institute. (It was reprinted by the Raleigh News […]

Pushing Back Against the Grinch

December 24, 2014 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

On the third Sunday of Advent, the New York Times ran an essay by Arthur C. Brooks, president of the American Enterprise Institute. (It was reprinted by the Raleigh News […]

Christmas: The Story of a Refugee Child Named Jesus

December 22, 2014 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last week, the largest detention center in the United States opened. The 50-acre center, located in Dilley, TX, will hold up to 2,400 migrants who have crossed the border illegally […]

Christmas: The Story of a Refugee Child Named Jesus

December 22, 2014 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last week, the largest detention center in the United States opened. The 50-acre center, located in Dilley, TX, will hold up to 2,400 migrants who have crossed the border illegally […]

Advent — Joy to the World

December 21, 2014 By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

“Joy to the world! The Lord is come. Let earth receive her king. Let every heart prepare Him room and heaven and nature sing….” It is the final week of Advent, […]

Advent — Joy to the World

December 21, 2014 by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

“Joy to the world! The Lord is come. Let earth receive her king. Let every heart prepare Him room and heaven and nature sing….” It is the final week of Advent, […]

Keep the Light Shining on CIA Conduct

December 11, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Perhaps you can fight fire with fire, but you can’t – or shouldn’t – attempt to fight terrorism with terror. That’s an ultimate takeaway from the U.S. Senate report detailing […]

Keep the Light Shining on CIA Conduct

December 11, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Perhaps you can fight fire with fire, but you can’t – or shouldn’t – attempt to fight terrorism with terror. That’s an ultimate takeaway from the U.S. Senate report detailing […]

Giving Thanks for Christmas Trees

December 10, 2014 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

This time of year we give thanks for many things — including our families, our health, and our churches. We often overlook our decorations, however. Putting up the Christmas tree […]

Giving Thanks for Christmas Trees

December 10, 2014 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

This time of year we give thanks for many things — including our families, our health, and our churches. We often overlook our decorations, however. Putting up the Christmas tree […]

Election Explanations as the Dust Settles

December 6, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina’s new U.S. senator-in-waiting, state House Speaker Thom Tillis, had what appears to have been the closest scrape among winning Republican Senate candidates in last month’s election. Tillis defeated […]

Election Explanations as the Dust Settles

December 6, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Job Posting: Executive Director

December 5, 2014 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches has begun the search for its next Executive Director. The Council is a statewide organization, based in Raleigh, and working on issues of justice, peace, […]

Job Posting: Executive Director

December 5, 2014 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches has begun the search for its next Executive Director. The Council is a statewide organization, based in Raleigh, and working on issues of justice, peace, […]

Advent: The Season of Perpetual Hope

December 5, 2014 By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Advent is here. If you look around, it may seem like Christmas showed up weeks ago, at least in stores and on the radio. But it isn’t Christmas yet. It is Advent. The […]

Advent: The Season of Perpetual Hope

December 5, 2014 by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Advent is here. If you look around, it may seem like Christmas showed up weeks ago, at least in stores and on the radio. But it isn’t Christmas yet. It is Advent. The […]

Worldchanging 101: Challenging the Myth of Powerlessness

November 28, 2014 By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

It’s not every day that the organization that you work with finds itself in the Acknowledgements of a newly published book. But that is the case in “WorldChanging 101” by […]

Worldchanging 101: Challenging the Myth of Powerlessness

November 28, 2014 by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

It’s not every day that the organization that you work with finds itself in the Acknowledgements of a newly published book. But that is the case in “WorldChanging 101” by […]

When a Child is Loved

November 26, 2014 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

I had a chance to talk with Mahan Siler at last week’s Road Show in Asheville. Mahan, who has retired to the Asheville area, was my family’s pastor at Pullen […]

When a Child is Loved

November 26, 2014 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

I had a chance to talk with Mahan Siler at last week’s Road Show in Asheville. Mahan, who has retired to the Asheville area, was my family’s pastor at Pullen […]

“It is a Challenge to be Hopeful”

November 25, 2014 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Driving home today, dreading what I’d read, hear, see next on the news out of the tragedy in Ferguson, wondering if there was anything that could be said that might […]

“It is a Challenge to be Hopeful”

November 25, 2014 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Driving home today, dreading what I’d read, hear, see next on the news out of the tragedy in Ferguson, wondering if there was anything that could be said that might […]

2014 Advent Guide

November 24, 2014 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council’s 2014 Advent Devotional Guide is now available as a free download. Each year, Council staff take a social justice theme as a focus for these guides to be used during […]

2014 Advent Guide

November 24, 2014 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council’s 2014 Advent Devotional Guide is now available as a free download. Each year, Council staff take a social justice theme as a focus for these guides to be used during […]

Religious Leaders Meet with EPA Administrator McCarthy

November 22, 2014 By Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

This week, representatives from 17 religious organizations met with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Gina McCarthy to deliver more than 10,000 public comments and highlight the support of the faith community on rules […]

Religious Leaders Meet with EPA Administrator McCarthy

November 22, 2014 by Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

Obama Unveils Immigration Plan: “We Were Strangers Once, Too”

November 21, 2014 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Yesterday, President Obama took a courageous and controversial step toward reforming our country’s immigration system. He announced his plan to allow millions of undocumented immigrants to apply to stay in this […]

Obama Unveils Immigration Plan: “We Were Strangers Once, Too”

November 21, 2014 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Council’s Fall Appeal is Underway

November 17, 2014 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

In his final fall appeal letter, Executive Director George Reed offers his thanks for those who have supported the Council over the years and helped it grown into the organization it […]

Council’s Fall Appeal is Underway

November 17, 2014 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

In his final fall appeal letter, Executive Director George Reed offers his thanks for those who have supported the Council over the years and helped it grown into the organization it […]

Expand Medicaid? Now’s the time

November 16, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The decision last year by the conservatives who control North Carolina’s state government not to expand the state’s Medicaid program has left an estimated half-million residents out in the cold […]

Expand Medicaid? Now’s the time

November 16, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

ACA Open Enrollment Kicks Off November 15 — Events Planned Statewide

November 14, 2014 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Open enrollment for the Affordable Care Act kicks off November 15 and continues through February 15, 2015. The Council has a long history of supporting universal health care as a […]

ACA Open Enrollment Kicks Off November 15 — Events Planned Statewide

November 14, 2014 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Open enrollment for the Affordable Care Act kicks off November 15 and continues through February 15, 2015. The Council has a long history of supporting universal health care as a […]

Environmental Responsibility Knows No Boundaries

November 13, 2014 By Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

This week, President Obama and Chinese President Xi Jinping – leaders of the world’s two biggest polluters – announced a “historic agreement.” Each country committed to reducing its nation’s carbon […]

Environmental Responsibility Knows No Boundaries

November 13, 2014 by Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

Lifting Up the Mexican Children and Students

November 13, 2014 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

As I have been traveling across the state educating clergy about immigrants in their communities and facilitating discussion through the Clergy Breakfast tour, I have heard from some amazing people: […]

Lifting Up the Mexican Children and Students

November 13, 2014 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Celebrating the Lives, Deaths, and Contributions of NC Farmworkers

November 12, 2014 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last week, advocates joined with farmworkers from across the state to remember fallen farmworkers who have died in the fields of North Carolina. The event took place on November 1, […]

Celebrating the Lives, Deaths, and Contributions of NC Farmworkers

November 12, 2014 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last week, advocates joined with farmworkers from across the state to remember fallen farmworkers who have died in the fields of North Carolina. The event took place on November 1, […]

Conservatives, Riding High, Can Heed Cooler Heads

November 8, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

There’s no getting around the fact that when North Carolinians went to the polls on Nov. 5, they gave a thumbs-up to the conservatives who’ve been in charge at the […]

Conservatives, Riding High, Can Heed Cooler Heads

November 8, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

There’s no getting around the fact that when North Carolinians went to the polls on Nov. 5, they gave a thumbs-up to the conservatives who’ve been in charge at the […]

Council Post-Election Road Shows to Charlotte and Asheville

November 7, 2014 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

What do Tuesday’s elections mean for North Carolina? How can people of faith in the state continue to affect positive change? Join the staff of the North Carolina Council of […]

Council Post-Election Road Shows to Charlotte and Asheville

November 7, 2014 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

What do Tuesday’s elections mean for North Carolina? How can people of faith in the state continue to affect positive change? Join the staff of the North Carolina Council of […]

The Bounty of Fall: The Wisdom of Seasonal Eating

November 4, 2014 By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

The slight nip in the air during the early morning hours as I make my way to an 8:00 am class tells me that summer is over. Fresh strawberries, abundant […]

The Bounty of Fall: The Wisdom of Seasonal Eating

November 4, 2014 by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

The slight nip in the air during the early morning hours as I make my way to an 8:00 am class tells me that summer is over. Fresh strawberries, abundant […]

Worship Resources on Sustainable Living

November 1, 2014 By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

Date: Christ the King - Nov. 23, 2014
Topic: Sustainable Living
Focus Text: Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24
In North Carolina, we have begun to pay more attention to the quality of our air and water and how our daily practices, both individually and corporately, can contribute either to environmental degradation or restoration. But my time in India impressed upon me the reality that my concern for clean air and water cannot stop at the state line.

Worship Resources on Sustainable Living

November 1, 2014 by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

Date: Christ the King – Nov. 23, 2014
Topic: Sustainable Living
Focus Text: Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24
In North Carolina, we have begun to pay more attention to the quality of our air and water and how our daily practices, both individually and corporately, can contribute either to environmental degradation or restoration. But my time in India impressed upon me the reality that my concern for clean air and water cannot stop at the state line.