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North Carolina Council of Churches Releases Faithful Voter Reflection Guide: Empowering Faith Communities to Vote Their Values

By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

RALEIGH, NC – The North Carolina Council of Churches proudly announces the release of the Faithful Voter Reflection Guide. This vital resource is designed to help people of faith integrate their spiritual beliefs with their civic responsibilities as they prepare for the upcoming election season. The Faithful Voter Reflection Guide encourages readers to reflect on […]

North Carolina Council of Churches Releases Faithful Voter Reflection Guide: Empowering Faith Communities to Vote Their Values

by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

RALEIGH, NC – The North Carolina Council of Churches proudly announces the release of the Faithful Voter Reflection Guide. This vital resource is designed to help people of faith integrate their spiritual beliefs with their civic responsibilities as they prepare for the upcoming election season. The Faithful Voter Reflection Guide encourages readers to reflect on […]

Faith leader urges Tillis to strengthen family immigration

· NC Newsline

As a faith leader in North Carolina, I was dismayed to see Congress pass a recent funding bill that will harm some members of our communities by expanding immigration detention and other enforcement efforts. This comes on the heels of North Carolina’s Senator Tillis being a key negotiator for a recent Senate deal that would have provided a life-changing […]

Faith leader urges Tillis to strengthen family immigration

· NC Newsline

As a faith leader in North Carolina, I was dismayed to see Congress pass a recent funding bill that will harm some members of our communities by expanding immigration detention and other enforcement efforts. This comes on the heels of North Carolina’s Senator Tillis being a key negotiator for a recent Senate deal that would have provided a life-changing […]

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Welcome John Dempsey Parker!

By John Dempsey Parker, Director of Partnerships and Development

We would like to welcome John Dempsey Parker as our new Director of Partnerships and Development. John has over 25 years of experience in North Carolina in asset-based community economic development, culturally appropriate and trauma-informed community organizing, community development finance, affordable housing, nonprofit management, small business and entrepreneurship systems development.  Since 2016, John has worked […]

Welcome John Dempsey Parker!

by John Dempsey Parker, Director of Partnerships and Development

We would like to welcome John Dempsey Parker as our new Director of Partnerships and Development. John has over 25 years of experience in North Carolina in asset-based community economic development, culturally appropriate and trauma-informed community organizing, community development finance, affordable housing, nonprofit management, small business and entrepreneurship systems development.  Since 2016, John has worked […]

Extra money, N.C.’s critical needs

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

First, the good news. As North Carolina’s lawmakers crank up their every-other-year “short” session (well, sometimes it’s not so short), they’ll have the luxury of working with a healthy boost in anticipated revenue. Healthy to the tune of a projected $1.4 billion – money to be factored into the state budget, now pegged at $30 […]

Extra money, N.C.’s critical needs

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

First, the good news. As North Carolina’s lawmakers crank up their every-other-year “short” session (well, sometimes it’s not so short), they’ll have the luxury of working with a healthy boost in anticipated revenue. Healthy to the tune of a projected $1.4 billion – money to be factored into the state budget, now pegged at $30 […]

2024 Lenten Guide: Easter Sunday

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from 2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 25:6-9 On this mountain the Lord of hosts will make for all peoples    a feast of rich food, a feast of well-aged wines,    of rich food filled with marrow, of well-aged wines strained clear.And he will destroy on […]

2024 Lenten Guide: Easter Sunday

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from 2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 25:6-9 On this mountain the Lord of hosts will make for all peoples    a feast of rich food, a feast of well-aged wines,    of rich food filled with marrow, of well-aged wines strained clear.And he will destroy on […]

2024 Lenten Guide: Maundy Thursday

By Rev. Dr. Arlecia Simmons, Partners in Health and Wholeness East Regional Associate Director

Excerpted from 2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 I love the Lord because he has heard    my voice and my supplications.Because he inclined his ear to me,    therefore I will call on him as long as I live. What shall I return to the Lord    for […]

2024 Lenten Guide: Maundy Thursday

by Rev. Dr. Arlecia Simmons, Partners in Health and Wholeness East Regional Associate Director

Excerpted from 2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 I love the Lord because he has heard    my voice and my supplications.Because he inclined his ear to me,    therefore I will call on him as long as I live. What shall I return to the Lord    for […]

2024 Lenten Guide: Good Friday

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Excerpted from 2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Hebrews 10:16-25 “This is the covenant that I will make with them    after those days, says the Lord:I will put my laws in their hearts,    and I will write them on their minds,” and he adds, “I […]

2024 Lenten Guide: Good Friday

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Excerpted from 2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Hebrews 10:16-25 “This is the covenant that I will make with them    after those days, says the Lord:I will put my laws in their hearts,    and I will write them on their minds,” and he adds, “I […]

2024 Lenten Guide: Palm Sunday

By Krista Westervelt, Associate Director, Partners in Health & Wholeness, Healthy Aging

Excerpted from 2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Mark 1:1-11 The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ. As it is written in the prophet Isaiah, “See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you,    who will prepare your way,the voice of one […]

2024 Lenten Guide: Palm Sunday

by Krista Westervelt, Associate Director, Partners in Health & Wholeness, Healthy Aging

Excerpted from 2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Mark 1:1-11 The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ. As it is written in the prophet Isaiah, “See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you,    who will prepare your way,the voice of one […]

Will election ‘machinery’ grind its gears?

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

As a classic example of trying to fix something that’s not broken, look no farther than the N.C. General Assembly’s overhaul last year of the State Board of Elections and its 100 county offshoots.  The changes, as stipulated in Senate Bill 749, would tangle the boards’ lines of authority six ways from Sunday and risk […]

Will election ‘machinery’ grind its gears?

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

As a classic example of trying to fix something that’s not broken, look no farther than the N.C. General Assembly’s overhaul last year of the State Board of Elections and its 100 county offshoots.  The changes, as stipulated in Senate Bill 749, would tangle the boards’ lines of authority six ways from Sunday and risk […]

2024 Lenten Guide: Fifth Sunday

By Sean Allen, Director of Finance and Administration

Excerpted from 2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. John 12:20-33 Now among those who went up to worship at the festival were some Greeks. They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, and said to him, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” Philip […]

2024 Lenten Guide: Fifth Sunday

by Sean Allen, Director of Finance and Administration

Excerpted from 2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. John 12:20-33 Now among those who went up to worship at the festival were some Greeks. They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, and said to him, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” Philip […]

Antidote to Death

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following sermon was delivered by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at Duke University Chapel. View the recording. Put a serpent on a pole, stare at it, and be healed. Believe in the Son of Man, about to be executed by the authorities, and have eternal life. Interesting prescriptions for […]

Antidote to Death

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following sermon was delivered by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at Duke University Chapel. View the recording. Put a serpent on a pole, stare at it, and be healed. Believe in the Son of Man, about to be executed by the authorities, and have eternal life. Interesting prescriptions for […]

2024 Lenten Guide: Fourth Sunday

By Donna Parks Hill, Associate Director for Community Health, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from 2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good,    for his steadfast love endures forever.Let the redeemed of the Lord say so,    those he redeemed from troubleand gathered in from the lands,    from the east and from […]

2024 Lenten Guide: Fourth Sunday

by Donna Parks Hill, Associate Director for Community Health, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from 2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good,    for his steadfast love endures forever.Let the redeemed of the Lord say so,    those he redeemed from troubleand gathered in from the lands,    from the east and from […]

2024 Lenten Guide: Third Sunday

By Ren Martin, Eco-Justice Connection Program Coordinator

Excerpted from 2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 19 The heavens are telling the glory of God,    and the firmament proclaims his handiwork.Day to day pours forth speech,    and night to night declares knowledge.There is no speech, nor are there words;    their voice is not […]

2024 Lenten Guide: Third Sunday

by Ren Martin, Eco-Justice Connection Program Coordinator

Excerpted from 2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 19 The heavens are telling the glory of God,    and the firmament proclaims his handiwork.Day to day pours forth speech,    and night to night declares knowledge.There is no speech, nor are there words;    their voice is not […]

2024 Lenten Guide: Second Sunday

By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Excerpted from 2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Mark 9:2-9 Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and John and led them up a high mountain apart, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his clothes became dazzling […]

2024 Lenten Guide: Second Sunday

by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Excerpted from 2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Mark 9:2-9 Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and John and led them up a high mountain apart, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his clothes became dazzling […]

Prayer for the Primary

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Voting may be the most important place for us to live into God’s call for a flourishing world. Feeding the hungry is crucial, but how much more so is passing legislation that will address the root causes of hunger? Giving water to the thirsty is crucial, but how much more so is passing legislation that […]

Prayer for the Primary

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Voting may be the most important place for us to live into God’s call for a flourishing world. Feeding the hungry is crucial, but how much more so is passing legislation that will address the root causes of hunger? Giving water to the thirsty is crucial, but how much more so is passing legislation that […]

2024 Lenten Guide: First Sunday

By Stephenie Sanders, Partners in Health and Wholeness Program and Engagement Administrator

Excerpted from 2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. 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 exult over me.Do not let those who wait […]

2024 Lenten Guide: First Sunday

by Stephenie Sanders, Partners in Health and Wholeness Program and Engagement Administrator

Excerpted from 2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. 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 exult over me.Do not let those who wait […]

2024 Lenten Guide: Ash Wednesday

By Rev. Carrilea Hall, West Regional Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from 2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 Blow the trumpet in Zion;    sound the alarm on my holy mountain!Let all the inhabitants of the land tremble,    for the day of the Lord is coming, it is near—a day of darkness and gloom,    a day […]

2024 Lenten Guide: Ash Wednesday

by Rev. Carrilea Hall, West Regional Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from 2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 Blow the trumpet in Zion;    sound the alarm on my holy mountain!Let all the inhabitants of the land tremble,    for the day of the Lord is coming, it is near—a day of darkness and gloom,    a day […]

2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Most of us are responsible, productive people. We head off at the start of the day to do what is expected of us. At the start of a new school year, fiscal year, or calendar year, we lay out a course and proceed accordingly, doing what is expected of us. So, it is with Mary […]

2024 Lenten Guide: Terror and Amazement

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Most of us are responsible, productive people. We head off at the start of the day to do what is expected of us. At the start of a new school year, fiscal year, or calendar year, we lay out a course and proceed accordingly, doing what is expected of us. So, it is with Mary […]

Schools face ‘sound basic’ showdown

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

In a political climate less driven by conservative ideology, even within our judicial system’s upper reaches, it might be reckless to forecast how the latest, epic clash over proper funding for North Carolina’s public schools – how much and who decides –will unfold in the state Supreme Court. But that climate characterizes the time we […]

Schools face ‘sound basic’ showdown

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

In a political climate less driven by conservative ideology, even within our judicial system’s upper reaches, it might be reckless to forecast how the latest, epic clash over proper funding for North Carolina’s public schools – how much and who decides –will unfold in the state Supreme Court. But that climate characterizes the time we […]

Gov. Cooper, NC faith leaders rally for abortion access on Roe v. Wade anniversary

· WRAL

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, faith leaders and activists on Monday rallied for abortion access and reproductive freedom across the state. Jan. 22 marks the 51st anniversary of the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision, which until it was overturned in 2022 granted American women the constitutional right to an abortion. In May 2023, the state […]

Gov. Cooper, NC faith leaders rally for abortion access on Roe v. Wade anniversary

· WRAL

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, faith leaders and activists on Monday rallied for abortion access and reproductive freedom across the state. Jan. 22 marks the 51st anniversary of the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision, which until it was overturned in 2022 granted American women the constitutional right to an abortion. In May 2023, the state […]

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Abortion rights advocates call for greater access to mark Roe v. Wade anniversary

· ABC 11

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — Monday marked 51 years since the passage of Roe v. Wade, the landmark US Supreme Court decision which protected abortion rights. It was marked by a series of events across the state, as abortion rights advocates took aim at the June 2022 Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization ruling, which overturned Roe v. […]

Abortion rights advocates call for greater access to mark Roe v. Wade anniversary

· ABC 11

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — Monday marked 51 years since the passage of Roe v. Wade, the landmark US Supreme Court decision which protected abortion rights. It was marked by a series of events across the state, as abortion rights advocates took aim at the June 2022 Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization ruling, which overturned Roe v. […]

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‘This is the thing of nightmares’: Raleigh faith leaders rally for access to abortion on anniversary of Roe v. Wade

· CBS17

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — On Monday, the 51st anniversary of Roe v. Wade, dozens of faith leaders are in Raleigh demanding access to safe and legal abortions and squashing what they call misconceptions about faith and reproductive rights. “It’s a misconception that the majority of Christian people are against abortion when exactly the opposite is […]

‘This is the thing of nightmares’: Raleigh faith leaders rally for access to abortion on anniversary of Roe v. Wade

· CBS17

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — On Monday, the 51st anniversary of Roe v. Wade, dozens of faith leaders are in Raleigh demanding access to safe and legal abortions and squashing what they call misconceptions about faith and reproductive rights. “It’s a misconception that the majority of Christian people are against abortion when exactly the opposite is […]

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Freedom or Control?

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland during a Faith Leaders Rally for Abortion Access on January 22, 2024. Click here to view the recording of the full rally. When I was a newly ordained, still naive and idealistic, young pastor from South Carolina, I went to a meeting for a group called Clergy for […]

Freedom or Control?

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland during a Faith Leaders Rally for Abortion Access on January 22, 2024. Click here to view the recording of the full rally. When I was a newly ordained, still naive and idealistic, young pastor from South Carolina, I went to a meeting for a group called Clergy for […]

2023 Advent Guide: Epiphany of the Lord

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Excerpted from 2023 Advent Guide: A Season of Renewal, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 60:1-6 Arise, shine, for your light has come,    and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.For darkness shall cover the earth    and thick darkness the peoples,but the Lord will arise upon you,    and his glory will appear over […]

2023 Advent Guide: Epiphany of the Lord

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Excerpted from 2023 Advent Guide: A Season of Renewal, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 60:1-6 Arise, shine, for your light has come,    and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.For darkness shall cover the earth    and thick darkness the peoples,but the Lord will arise upon you,    and his glory will appear over […]

2023 Advent Guide: First Sunday After Christmas

By Donna Parks Hill, Associate Director for Community Health, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from 2023 Advent Guide: A Season of Renewal, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 148 Praise the Lord!Praise the Lord from the heavens;    praise him in the heights!Praise him, all his angels;    praise him, all his host! Praise him, sun and moon;    praise him, all you shining stars!Praise him, you highest heavens    and you […]

2023 Advent Guide: First Sunday After Christmas

by Donna Parks Hill, Associate Director for Community Health, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from 2023 Advent Guide: A Season of Renewal, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 148 Praise the Lord!Praise the Lord from the heavens;    praise him in the heights!Praise him, all his angels;    praise him, all his host! Praise him, sun and moon;    praise him, all you shining stars!Praise him, you highest heavens    and you […]

2023 Advent Guide: Christmas Day

By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Excerpted from 2023 Advent Guide: A Season of Renewal, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 9:2-7 The people who walked in darkness    have seen a great light;those who lived in a land of deep darkness—    on them light has shined.You have multiplied exultation;    you have increased its joy;they rejoice before you    as […]

2023 Advent Guide: Christmas Day

by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Excerpted from 2023 Advent Guide: A Season of Renewal, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 9:2-7 The people who walked in darkness    have seen a great light;those who lived in a land of deep darkness—    on them light has shined.You have multiplied exultation;    you have increased its joy;they rejoice before you    as […]

2023 Advent Guide: Fourth Sunday of Advent

By Rev. Carrilea Hall, West Regional Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from 2023 Advent Guide: A Season of Renewal, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Luke 1:26-38 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of […]

2023 Advent Guide: Fourth Sunday of Advent

by Rev. Carrilea Hall, West Regional Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from 2023 Advent Guide: A Season of Renewal, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Luke 1:26-38 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of […]

Law expands concealed carry rights in churches

· Spectrum News

At the beginning of December, a new law expanded allowing people to carry concealed guns in North Carolina. State law now allows people to conceal carry in churches that share property with schools, with some exceptions. This law has divided reactions across the state, like most gun laws. Some saying it’s a win for the […]

Law expands concealed carry rights in churches

· Spectrum News

At the beginning of December, a new law expanded allowing people to carry concealed guns in North Carolina. State law now allows people to conceal carry in churches that share property with schools, with some exceptions. This law has divided reactions across the state, like most gun laws. Some saying it’s a win for the […]

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2023 Advent Guide: Third Sunday of Advent

By Rev. Dr. Arlecia Simmons, Partners in Health and Wholeness East Regional Associate Director

Excerpted from 2023 Advent Guide: A Season of Renewal, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Luke 1:46b-55 And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord,    and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,for he has looked with favor on the lowly state of his servant.    Surely from now on all generations will […]

2023 Advent Guide: Third Sunday of Advent

by Rev. Dr. Arlecia Simmons, Partners in Health and Wholeness East Regional Associate Director

Excerpted from 2023 Advent Guide: A Season of Renewal, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Luke 1:46b-55 And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord,    and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,for he has looked with favor on the lowly state of his servant.    Surely from now on all generations will […]

Health Plans: Tackling Diabetes Disparities for All Americans

· HIT Consultant

During Diabetes Awareness month (November) – and every month – someone is having a limb amputated due to diabetes every three-to-four minutes here in the United States. These patients often come from traditionally underserved populations, including Black and Latinx communities, that disproportionately experience the clinical and economic burdens of diabetes.   Getting ahead of rising patient risks can […]

Health Plans: Tackling Diabetes Disparities for All Americans

· HIT Consultant

During Diabetes Awareness month (November) – and every month – someone is having a limb amputated due to diabetes every three-to-four minutes here in the United States. These patients often come from traditionally underserved populations, including Black and Latinx communities, that disproportionately experience the clinical and economic burdens of diabetes.   Getting ahead of rising patient risks can […]

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2023 Advent Guide: Second Sunday of Advent

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from 2023 Advent Guide: A Season of Renewal, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 40:1-11 Comfort, O comfort my people,    says your God.Speak tenderly to Jerusalem,    and cry to herthat she has served her term,    that her penalty is paid,that she has received from the Lord’s hand    double for all her […]

2023 Advent Guide: Second Sunday of Advent

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from 2023 Advent Guide: A Season of Renewal, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 40:1-11 Comfort, O comfort my people,    says your God.Speak tenderly to Jerusalem,    and cry to herthat she has served her term,    that her penalty is paid,that she has received from the Lord’s hand    double for all her […]

Citizen science projects tend to attract white, affluent, well-educated volunteers − here’s how we recruited a more diverse group to identify lead pipes in homes

· The Conversation

Recruiting participants for a citizen science project produced a more diverse group when people were signed up through partner organizations, such as schools and faith-based organizations, than when they joined on their own. We used this approach to recruit volunteers for Crowd the Tap, a citizen science initiative that crowdsources the locations of lead plumbing in homes. We […]

Citizen science projects tend to attract white, affluent, well-educated volunteers − here’s how we recruited a more diverse group to identify lead pipes in homes

· The Conversation

Recruiting participants for a citizen science project produced a more diverse group when people were signed up through partner organizations, such as schools and faith-based organizations, than when they joined on their own. We used this approach to recruit volunteers for Crowd the Tap, a citizen science initiative that crowdsources the locations of lead plumbing in homes. We […]

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They ‘stand’ against a gerrymander

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina’s new voting district maps were hatched in a way that brings to mind Macbeth’s calculation as he ponders murder: “If it were done when ’tis done, then ’twere well / It were done quickly: …”  In other words, it’s a nasty piece of business but if it’ll solve the problem then just get […]

They ‘stand’ against a gerrymander

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina’s new voting district maps were hatched in a way that brings to mind Macbeth’s calculation as he ponders murder: “If it were done when ’tis done, then ’twere well / It were done quickly: …”  In other words, it’s a nasty piece of business but if it’ll solve the problem then just get […]

2023 Advent Guide: First Sunday of Advent

By Ren Martin, Eco-Justice Connection Program Coordinator

Excerpted from 2023 Advent Guide: A Season of Renewal, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Corinthians 1:3-9 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that has been […]

2023 Advent Guide: First Sunday of Advent

by Ren Martin, Eco-Justice Connection Program Coordinator

Excerpted from 2023 Advent Guide: A Season of Renewal, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Corinthians 1:3-9 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that has been […]

‘Grins and Glocks’: Wake Forest orthodontist offers free gun with Invisalign treatment

· WRAL

As part of a promotion, Gladwell Orthodontics and Youngsville Gun Club & Range are giving certain customers their pick between a Silver membership at the Youngsville Gun Club & Range or a free Glock 19, which retails for more than $500. WRAL talked with attorneys and federal agencies about the legality of such a deal, […]

‘Grins and Glocks’: Wake Forest orthodontist offers free gun with Invisalign treatment

· WRAL

As part of a promotion, Gladwell Orthodontics and Youngsville Gun Club & Range are giving certain customers their pick between a Silver membership at the Youngsville Gun Club & Range or a free Glock 19, which retails for more than $500. WRAL talked with attorneys and federal agencies about the legality of such a deal, […]

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2023 Advent Guide: A Journey Towards Justice for Women and the LGBTQ+ Community

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Advent offers the double purpose of waiting for two things while preparing for both—waiting for Christmas and waiting for the in-breaking of God’s kin-dom. The preparation for Christmas is obvious: we have a tree to decorate, cookies to bake, presents to wrap. Preparing for the in-breaking of God’s kin-dom takes a little more creativity. For […]

2023 Advent Guide: A Journey Towards Justice for Women and the LGBTQ+ Community

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Advent offers the double purpose of waiting for two things while preparing for both—waiting for Christmas and waiting for the in-breaking of God’s kin-dom. The preparation for Christmas is obvious: we have a tree to decorate, cookies to bake, presents to wrap. Preparing for the in-breaking of God’s kin-dom takes a little more creativity. For […]

Welcome Sandra Pardo

By Sandra Pardo, Farmworker Advocacy Network Coalition Coordinator

The Council is excited to introduce you to one of our newest staff members, Sandra Pardo. Sandra joined us in October as the Farmworker Advocacy Network Coalition Coordinator. Read more about Sandra: Hi! I’m Sandra Pardo, and I’m beyond ecstatic to be joining the North Carolina Council of Churches and the North Carolina Farmworker Advocacy […]

Welcome Sandra Pardo

by Sandra Pardo, Farmworker Advocacy Network Coalition Coordinator

The Council is excited to introduce you to one of our newest staff members, Sandra Pardo. Sandra joined us in October as the Farmworker Advocacy Network Coalition Coordinator. Read more about Sandra: Hi! I’m Sandra Pardo, and I’m beyond ecstatic to be joining the North Carolina Council of Churches and the North Carolina Farmworker Advocacy […]

Faith, Hope, and Healing: #Every1KnowsSome1

By Mary Peacock, Domestic Violence Advocate

Have you seen the trending #Every1KnowsSome1 for domestic violence awareness? It may surprise you to think you know someone. Or maybe you think you are the only one? In truth, it is an understatement. Statistically speaking, we all know a lot of “someones,” but we tend to get a bit squirmy and start looking for […]

Faith, Hope, and Healing: #Every1KnowsSome1

by Mary Peacock, Domestic Violence Advocate

Have you seen the trending #Every1KnowsSome1 for domestic violence awareness? It may surprise you to think you know someone. Or maybe you think you are the only one? In truth, it is an understatement. Statistically speaking, we all know a lot of “someones,” but we tend to get a bit squirmy and start looking for […]

Gerrymander games get going

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Not for the first time, let’s recall the quasi-consolation offered by Chief Justice John Roberts Jr. as the U.S. Supreme Court declared – in a case involving North Carolina – that extreme partisan gerrymandering is something it lacks the authority to fix.  “Excessive partisanship in districting leads to results that reasonably seem unjust,” Roberts acknowledged […]

Gerrymander games get going

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Not for the first time, let’s recall the quasi-consolation offered by Chief Justice John Roberts Jr. as the U.S. Supreme Court declared – in a case involving North Carolina – that extreme partisan gerrymandering is something it lacks the authority to fix.  “Excessive partisanship in districting leads to results that reasonably seem unjust,” Roberts acknowledged […]

Look out North Carolina, our tax dollars are being spent on a biased religious agenda | Opinion

· The News & Observer

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director The separation of Church and state outlined in our U.S. Constitution might be the most misunderstood part of our nation’s laws. The newly released North Carolina budget demonstrates why we should understand it better. In short, the religious person has the right to observe and practice one’s faith […]

Look out North Carolina, our tax dollars are being spent on a biased religious agenda | Opinion

· The News & Observer

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director The separation of Church and state outlined in our U.S. Constitution might be the most misunderstood part of our nation’s laws. The newly released North Carolina budget demonstrates why we should understand it better. In short, the religious person has the right to observe and practice one’s faith […]

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Separation of church and state? Religious groups get $26 million in NC taxpayer money

· The News & Observer

North Carolina’s newly passed state budget includes nearly $26 million in funding for religious organizations, ranging from direct grants to individual churches to funds for anti-abortion crisis pregnancy centers. Among the top recipients are groups that have come under scrutiny in the past for improperly using federal funds and allegedly providing pregnant women with misleading […]

Separation of church and state? Religious groups get $26 million in NC taxpayer money

· The News & Observer

North Carolina’s newly passed state budget includes nearly $26 million in funding for religious organizations, ranging from direct grants to individual churches to funds for anti-abortion crisis pregnancy centers. Among the top recipients are groups that have come under scrutiny in the past for improperly using federal funds and allegedly providing pregnant women with misleading […]

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Faithful Event: Reproductive Rights through a Spiritual Lens

By North Carolina Council of Churches

GREENSBORO, NC — The North Carolina Council of Churches is excited to announce the upcoming event, “Trusting Women and Empowering Equity,” scheduled for October 26, 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., at the Congregational United Church of Christ, located at 400 W. Radiance Dr., Greensboro. This event will delve into crucial topics surrounding reproductive justice and […]

Faithful Event: Reproductive Rights through a Spiritual Lens

GREENSBORO, NC — The North Carolina Council of Churches is excited to announce the upcoming event, “Trusting Women and Empowering Equity,” scheduled for October 26, 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., at the Congregational United Church of Christ, located at 400 W. Radiance Dr., Greensboro. This event will delve into crucial topics surrounding reproductive justice and […]

North Carolina groups unhappy with 2023 Appropriations Act lack of solutions to overdose epidemic

· WWAY

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) – Some groups aren’t happy about the new North Carolina State Budget, believing it’s lacking in important areas. Groups such as the Community Education Group and the North Carolina Council of Churches say the budget isn’t using opioid settlement funds for proven medications for addiction. They claim the budget invests in abstinence […]

North Carolina groups unhappy with 2023 Appropriations Act lack of solutions to overdose epidemic

· WWAY

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) – Some groups aren’t happy about the new North Carolina State Budget, believing it’s lacking in important areas. Groups such as the Community Education Group and the North Carolina Council of Churches say the budget isn’t using opioid settlement funds for proven medications for addiction. They claim the budget invests in abstinence […]

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Secrecy-obsessed legislators turn to new maps

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Well, that was quick. We’d barely had time to reckon with all the bullying packed into the new state budget approved on Sept. 22 when the N.C. General Assembly’s Republican majority pivoted to what could be its favorite sport – redrawing election districts.  What makes that arcane process so much fun? It’s when the politicians […]

Secrecy-obsessed legislators turn to new maps

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Well, that was quick. We’d barely had time to reckon with all the bullying packed into the new state budget approved on Sept. 22 when the N.C. General Assembly’s Republican majority pivoted to what could be its favorite sport – redrawing election districts.  What makes that arcane process so much fun? It’s when the politicians […]

Election board shuffling spells trouble

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The Republicans who rule North Carolina’s General Assembly from their high supermajority perch want to make voting more difficult because they think that on balance, this gives them a leg up when the ballots are counted. As to the self-evident notion that they’re subverting a pillar of our democratic system, they apparently couldn’t care less. […]

Election board shuffling spells trouble

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The Republicans who rule North Carolina’s General Assembly from their high supermajority perch want to make voting more difficult because they think that on balance, this gives them a leg up when the ballots are counted. As to the self-evident notion that they’re subverting a pillar of our democratic system, they apparently couldn’t care less. […]

Gay Teacher’s Case Latest to Probe Religion-Sex Bias Boundaries

· Bloomberg Law

The Fourth Circuit will be the latest court to examine the interplay between federal job discrimination law and religious freedom protections when it hears arguments Wednesday in a Catholic high school’s appeal of its loss in a gay teacher’s bias lawsuit. Charlotte Catholic High School fired Lonnie Billard after his announcement on Facebook, soon after […]

Gay Teacher’s Case Latest to Probe Religion-Sex Bias Boundaries

· Bloomberg Law

The Fourth Circuit will be the latest court to examine the interplay between federal job discrimination law and religious freedom protections when it hears arguments Wednesday in a Catholic high school’s appeal of its loss in a gay teacher’s bias lawsuit. Charlotte Catholic High School fired Lonnie Billard after his announcement on Facebook, soon after […]

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New Hurdles Loom for Tar Heel Voters

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The N.C. General Assembly — under the thumb of a conservative and anti-small-d-democratic majority – is making its intentions clear. It wants to keep as many voters as possible from participating in next year’s high-stakes elections. Might some voters aligned with that Republican majority wind up as collateral damage, inconvenienced or frustrated to the point […]

New Hurdles Loom for Tar Heel Voters

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The N.C. General Assembly — under the thumb of a conservative and anti-small-d-democratic majority – is making its intentions clear. It wants to keep as many voters as possible from participating in next year’s high-stakes elections. Might some voters aligned with that Republican majority wind up as collateral damage, inconvenienced or frustrated to the point […]

Welcome Donna Parks Hill

By Donna Parks Hill, Associate Director for Community Health, Partners in Health and Wholeness

The Council is excited to introduce you to one of our newest staff members, Donna Parks Hill. Donna joined us earlier this month as Project Coordinator for Overdose Response and HIV Education for Partners in Health and Wholeness. Read more about Donna: Hi! I am Donna Hill with Partners in Health and Wholeness, a North […]

Welcome Donna Parks Hill

by Donna Parks Hill, Associate Director for Community Health, Partners in Health and Wholeness

The Council is excited to introduce you to one of our newest staff members, Donna Parks Hill. Donna joined us earlier this month as Project Coordinator for Overdose Response and HIV Education for Partners in Health and Wholeness. Read more about Donna: Hi! I am Donna Hill with Partners in Health and Wholeness, a North […]

Not All Christians Oppose Abortion | Opinion

· Newsweek 90

On May 16, the North Carolina legislature overturned Governor Roy Cooper’s veto of SB 20, another in a long line of abortion bans blanketing the country. The threats that this bill pose to the health and safety of pregnant people and the threat to democratic processes posed by the underhanded actions of the bill’s sponsors have […]

Not All Christians Oppose Abortion | Opinion

· Newsweek 90

On May 16, the North Carolina legislature overturned Governor Roy Cooper’s veto of SB 20, another in a long line of abortion bans blanketing the country. The threats that this bill pose to the health and safety of pregnant people and the threat to democratic processes posed by the underhanded actions of the bill’s sponsors have […]

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Crossroads for voting access, fairness

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

As painful as it is to admit, and just as obvious, the right of Americans to vote in the elections by which their political leaders are chosen has emerged only after decades of conflict and struggle — from the time of the nation’s founding when voting generally was a privilege reserved to white male landowners […]

Crossroads for voting access, fairness

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

As painful as it is to admit, and just as obvious, the right of Americans to vote in the elections by which their political leaders are chosen has emerged only after decades of conflict and struggle — from the time of the nation’s founding when voting generally was a privilege reserved to white male landowners […]

Celebrating the Success of the Council’s Legislative Seminar!

By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

The 2023 Legislative Seminar proved to be a platform for education, discussion, and inspiration, made possible by all of you who participated. Participants and organizers left feeling energized and motivated. Among the many remarkable moments, the presentation of the Faith Active in Public Life Award to Governor Roy Cooper stood out as a shining example […]

Celebrating the Success of the Council’s Legislative Seminar!

by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

The 2023 Legislative Seminar proved to be a platform for education, discussion, and inspiration, made possible by all of you who participated. Participants and organizers left feeling energized and motivated. Among the many remarkable moments, the presentation of the Faith Active in Public Life Award to Governor Roy Cooper stood out as a shining example […]

Fired Gay Church Worker’s Lawsuit to Be Heard by U.S. Court of Appeals’ Fourth Circuit

· New Ways Ministry

A Catholic school teacher fired due to his same-gender marriage will have his discrimination lawsuit heard by a U.S. Court of Appeals soon. In 2014, Lonnie Billard announced on Facebook that he would wed his partner, Rich Donham. His announcement occurred just two weeks after a federal court legalized marriage equality in North Carolina. Shortly […]

Fired Gay Church Worker’s Lawsuit to Be Heard by U.S. Court of Appeals’ Fourth Circuit

· New Ways Ministry

A Catholic school teacher fired due to his same-gender marriage will have his discrimination lawsuit heard by a U.S. Court of Appeals soon. In 2014, Lonnie Billard announced on Facebook that he would wed his partner, Rich Donham. His announcement occurred just two weeks after a federal court legalized marriage equality in North Carolina. Shortly […]

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Farmworker Advocacy Network Coordinator (Bilingual – Spanish/English) 

By North Carolina Council of Churches

FARMWORKER ADVOCACY NETWORK DESCRIPTION  The Farmworker Advocacy Network (FAN) is a statewide network of organizations that works to improve the living and working conditions of agricultural workers in North Carolina. Since 2003, FAN has brought workers’ voices to the legislative process and pushed for policy change at the state, local and federal level. FAN members […]

Farmworker Advocacy Network Coordinator (Bilingual – Spanish/English) 

by North Carolina Council of Churches

FARMWORKER ADVOCACY NETWORK DESCRIPTION  The Farmworker Advocacy Network (FAN) is a statewide network of organizations that works to improve the living and working conditions of agricultural workers in North Carolina. Since 2003, FAN has brought workers’ voices to the legislative process and pushed for policy change at the state, local and federal level. FAN members […]

After the Act, SB20

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

After the sun set on May 16, 2023, the North Carolina General Assembly completed their override of the Governor’s veto of a bill that will now dramatically restrict reproductive rights in our state. Before all that happened, the Council and our allies co-authored a letter to every member of the General Assembly asking them to […]

After the Act, SB20

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

After the sun set on May 16, 2023, the North Carolina General Assembly completed their override of the Governor’s veto of a bill that will now dramatically restrict reproductive rights in our state. Before all that happened, the Council and our allies co-authored a letter to every member of the General Assembly asking them to […]

North Carolina clergy demonstrate against legislature’s new abortion limits

· Religion News Service

Led by the Rev. William J. Barber II, a dozen Christian clergy stood in the hallway of the North Carolina General Assembly Friday (May 12) to denounce a bill approved earlier this month that bans abortion after 12 weeks of pregnancy, and to say, in effect, ‘not in my name.” The press conference comes one […]

North Carolina clergy demonstrate against legislature’s new abortion limits

· Religion News Service

Led by the Rev. William J. Barber II, a dozen Christian clergy stood in the hallway of the North Carolina General Assembly Friday (May 12) to denounce a bill approved earlier this month that bans abortion after 12 weeks of pregnancy, and to say, in effect, ‘not in my name.” The press conference comes one […]

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Officials, advocates answer questions on solar, wind power

· Coastal Review

“What happens to solar panels during a hurricane?” This was one of the first questions asked during a renewable energy symposium in Carteret Community College’s Joslyn Hall the week of Earth Day.  Dar Hubsch, residential project developer for Wilmington-based Cape Fear Solar Systems, responded. “Being a company based here on the coast, we are well […]

Officials, advocates answer questions on solar, wind power

· Coastal Review

“What happens to solar panels during a hurricane?” This was one of the first questions asked during a renewable energy symposium in Carteret Community College’s Joslyn Hall the week of Earth Day.  Dar Hubsch, residential project developer for Wilmington-based Cape Fear Solar Systems, responded. “Being a company based here on the coast, we are well […]

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North Carolina’s no-permit concealed carry bill dropped before vote in NC House

· Fox 8

The idea that North Carolinians would be allowed to carry a concealed, loaded weapon without having a permit appears to be holstered for this legislative session. In a surprise move Wednesday, the NC House pulled House Bill 189 – the so-called “NC Constitutional Carry Act” – before its scheduled floor vote, one of more than 50 bills […]

North Carolina’s no-permit concealed carry bill dropped before vote in NC House

· Fox 8

The idea that North Carolinians would be allowed to carry a concealed, loaded weapon without having a permit appears to be holstered for this legislative session. In a surprise move Wednesday, the NC House pulled House Bill 189 – the so-called “NC Constitutional Carry Act” – before its scheduled floor vote, one of more than 50 bills […]

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Governor Roy Cooper to Receive North Carolina Council of Churches’ Faith Active in Public Life Award at Upcoming 2023 Legislative Seminar

By North Carolina Council of Churches

Written by Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, and Rachel Baker, Communications Director The North Carolina Council of Churches announces that Governor Roy Cooper will receive this year’s Faith Active in Public Life Award. This award recognizes individuals whose faith inspires them to uphold the principles of justice that are fundamental to the faith traditions represented by […]

Governor Roy Cooper to Receive North Carolina Council of Churches’ Faith Active in Public Life Award at Upcoming 2023 Legislative Seminar

by North Carolina Council of Churches

Written by Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, and Rachel Baker, Communications Director The North Carolina Council of Churches announces that Governor Roy Cooper will receive this year’s Faith Active in Public Life Award. This award recognizes individuals whose faith inspires them to uphold the principles of justice that are fundamental to the faith traditions represented by […]

High court careens back to the future

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

In the conservative catalogue of insults, calling a judge an “activist” is about as cutting as it gets. If this were an old-time playground war of words, it would rank up there with that classic zinger: “And your mama wears combat boots!” How strange, then, that the conservative majority on North Carolina’s Supreme Court now […]

High court careens back to the future

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

In the conservative catalogue of insults, calling a judge an “activist” is about as cutting as it gets. If this were an old-time playground war of words, it would rank up there with that classic zinger: “And your mama wears combat boots!” How strange, then, that the conservative majority on North Carolina’s Supreme Court now […]

Concealed carry permit bill advances in NC House committee

· ABC 11

House lawmakers in the Judiciary 2 committee debated House Bill 189, otherwise known as the NC Constitutional Carry Act on Tuesday morning. The proposed bill looks to allow anyone 18 or older, barring certain disqualifying offenses or events, to be allowed to carry concealed without a permit in North Carolina. “This bill is the opposite […]

Concealed carry permit bill advances in NC House committee

· ABC 11

House lawmakers in the Judiciary 2 committee debated House Bill 189, otherwise known as the NC Constitutional Carry Act on Tuesday morning. The proposed bill looks to allow anyone 18 or older, barring certain disqualifying offenses or events, to be allowed to carry concealed without a permit in North Carolina. “This bill is the opposite […]

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Bill to legalize no-permit concealed carry in North Carolina advances through state House committee

· Fox 8

House Bill 189, the bid to remove restrictions and allow most North Carolinians to carry a concealed loaded weapon, passed through a key committee despite vigorous debate on Tuesday morning and now moves within one step of a vote on the House floor. The so-called “NC Constitutional Carry Act” received a favorable report – with an […]

Bill to legalize no-permit concealed carry in North Carolina advances through state House committee

· Fox 8

House Bill 189, the bid to remove restrictions and allow most North Carolinians to carry a concealed loaded weapon, passed through a key committee despite vigorous debate on Tuesday morning and now moves within one step of a vote on the House floor. The so-called “NC Constitutional Carry Act” received a favorable report – with an […]

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After switch, they’re set to party hearty

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The forces in North Carolina’s General Assembly aligned with what typically are seen as progressive causes – including strong public schools, fair and adequate taxation, wide access to decent health care, racial justice, elections open to meaningful participation by all qualified voters – began the month of April with their hopes hanging by a thread. […]

After switch, they’re set to party hearty

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The forces in North Carolina’s General Assembly aligned with what typically are seen as progressive causes – including strong public schools, fair and adequate taxation, wide access to decent health care, racial justice, elections open to meaningful participation by all qualified voters – began the month of April with their hopes hanging by a thread. […]

Welcome Carrilea Hall

By Rev. Carrilea Hall, West Regional Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

The Council is excited to introduce you to one of our newest staff members, Carrilea Hall. Carrilea joined us as West Regional Associate Director for Partners in Health and Wholeness. Read more about Carrilea: I’m Carrilea Hall, and I am excited to join the North Carolina Council of Churches and the Partners in Health and […]

Welcome Carrilea Hall

by Rev. Carrilea Hall, West Regional Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

The Council is excited to introduce you to one of our newest staff members, Carrilea Hall. Carrilea joined us as West Regional Associate Director for Partners in Health and Wholeness. Read more about Carrilea: I’m Carrilea Hall, and I am excited to join the North Carolina Council of Churches and the Partners in Health and […]

Project Coordinator: Overdose Response and HIV Education 

By North Carolina Council of Churches

Council Description: With more than eight decades of progressive activism, the North Carolina Council of Churches remains the leading faith-based ecumenical voice for justice advocacy in North Carolina. We are particularly concerned about issues related to health care, immigration, farm workers, care of creation, voting rights, food security, and peace. The Council embraces ethnic, racial, […]

Project Coordinator: Overdose Response and HIV Education 

by North Carolina Council of Churches

Council Description: With more than eight decades of progressive activism, the North Carolina Council of Churches remains the leading faith-based ecumenical voice for justice advocacy in North Carolina. We are particularly concerned about issues related to health care, immigration, farm workers, care of creation, voting rights, food security, and peace. The Council embraces ethnic, racial, […]

N.C. Council of Churches advocates for gun violence prevention

· Spectrum News

After tragedies like the Hedingham mass shooting in Raleigh, people often turn to their faith for answers and healing. Members of the North Carolina Council of Churches have over 6,200 congregations across 18 denominations. The organization’s executive director says the council has been and will continue to be engaged in gun violence prevention. What You […]

N.C. Council of Churches advocates for gun violence prevention

· Spectrum News

After tragedies like the Hedingham mass shooting in Raleigh, people often turn to their faith for answers and healing. Members of the North Carolina Council of Churches have over 6,200 congregations across 18 denominations. The organization’s executive director says the council has been and will continue to be engaged in gun violence prevention. What You […]

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Faith community leaders call on Gov. Cooper to commute NC death sentences of all prisoners awaiting execution

· CBS 17

About 300 leaders in the faith community on Friday called on Gov. Roy Cooper (D) to commute the death sentences of all prisoners awaiting execution in North Carolina. In a letter, the group cited concerns about racial bias and the potential for someone to be sentenced to death who is later found to have been innocent. […]

Faith community leaders call on Gov. Cooper to commute NC death sentences of all prisoners awaiting execution

· CBS 17

About 300 leaders in the faith community on Friday called on Gov. Roy Cooper (D) to commute the death sentences of all prisoners awaiting execution in North Carolina. In a letter, the group cited concerns about racial bias and the potential for someone to be sentenced to death who is later found to have been innocent. […]

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NC faith leaders ask Governor Cooper to commute sentences of death row inmates

· ABC 11

Nearly 300 faith leaders from around the state delivered a letter to Governor Roy Cooper asking him to commute the death sentences of all 137 people on North Carolina’s death row. North Carolina currently has 137 people on death row. The last execution was in 2006. Faith leaders gathered Friday at West Raleigh Presbyterian Church […]

NC faith leaders ask Governor Cooper to commute sentences of death row inmates

· ABC 11

Nearly 300 faith leaders from around the state delivered a letter to Governor Roy Cooper asking him to commute the death sentences of all 137 people on North Carolina’s death row. North Carolina currently has 137 people on death row. The last execution was in 2006. Faith leaders gathered Friday at West Raleigh Presbyterian Church […]

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A New Vision of Justice

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland delivered the following remarks at a press conference on April 14, 2023, calling on Governor Roy Cooper to commute all death sentences in North Carolina. Click here to view the press conference. My name is Jennifer Copeland. I’m the Executive Director of the N.C. Council of Churches. I am joined today […]

A New Vision of Justice

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland delivered the following remarks at a press conference on April 14, 2023, calling on Governor Roy Cooper to commute all death sentences in North Carolina. Click here to view the press conference. My name is Jennifer Copeland. I’m the Executive Director of the N.C. Council of Churches. I am joined today […]

Renewable Energy Symposium slated for Earth Day week

· Coastal Review

An opportunity to learn more about solar and wind power will take place in Carteret County during the week of Earth Day. The Renewable Energy Symposium is set for 1 to 6 p.m. April 20 in Joslyn Hall at Carteret Community College. Attendance is free. College Corporate and Community Education Vice President Perry Harker kicks […]

Renewable Energy Symposium slated for Earth Day week

· Coastal Review

An opportunity to learn more about solar and wind power will take place in Carteret County during the week of Earth Day. The Renewable Energy Symposium is set for 1 to 6 p.m. April 20 in Joslyn Hall at Carteret Community College. Attendance is free. College Corporate and Community Education Vice President Perry Harker kicks […]

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Three faiths marking holidays in N.C.

· Spectrum News' In Focus

Three major religious holidays are overlapping today as Christians celebrate Easter Sunday, Jews mark Passover and Muslims are in the middle of Ramadan month. Today on In Focus with Loretta Boniti, we take a look at these religions and why these holidays are so important in an effort to get to know a little more […]

Three faiths marking holidays in N.C.

· Spectrum News' In Focus

Three major religious holidays are overlapping today as Christians celebrate Easter Sunday, Jews mark Passover and Muslims are in the middle of Ramadan month. Today on In Focus with Loretta Boniti, we take a look at these religions and why these holidays are so important in an effort to get to know a little more […]

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Faith leaders call on NC governor for end of ‘racist and error-prone’ death penalty

· The News & Observer

During a time of major celebration for several world religions, nearly 300 faith leaders from around North Carolina are calling on Gov. Roy Cooper to end the death penalty. On Thursday, the North Carolina Council of Churches and the North Carolina Coalition for Alternatives to the Death Penalty released a letter asking for Cooper to […]

Faith leaders call on NC governor for end of ‘racist and error-prone’ death penalty

· The News & Observer

During a time of major celebration for several world religions, nearly 300 faith leaders from around North Carolina are calling on Gov. Roy Cooper to end the death penalty. On Thursday, the North Carolina Council of Churches and the North Carolina Coalition for Alternatives to the Death Penalty released a letter asking for Cooper to […]

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2023 Lenten Guide: Easter Sunday

By Nicole Johnson, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Matthew 28:1-10 After the Sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. And suddenly there was a great earthquake, for an […]

2023 Lenten Guide: Easter Sunday

by Nicole Johnson, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Matthew 28:1-10 After the Sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. And suddenly there was a great earthquake, for an […]

2023 Lenten Guide: Good Friday

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 22 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?    Why are you so far from helping me, from the words of my groaning?O my God, I cry by day, but you do […]

2023 Lenten Guide: Good Friday

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 22 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?    Why are you so far from helping me, from the words of my groaning?O my God, I cry by day, but you do […]

2023 Lenten Guide: Maundy Thursday

By Stephenie Sanders, Partners in Health and Wholeness Program and Engagement Administrator

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. John 13:1-17, 31b-35 Now before the festival of the Passover, Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart from this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were […]

2023 Lenten Guide: Maundy Thursday

by Stephenie Sanders, Partners in Health and Wholeness Program and Engagement Administrator

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. John 13:1-17, 31b-35 Now before the festival of the Passover, Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart from this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were […]

The NC Council of Churches files a comment with the NC Utility Commission in support of low-income households

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

RALEIGH, NC – The North Carolina Council of Churches (Council) has filed a comment with the North Carolina Utility Commission (Commission) about Duke Energy’s proposed rate increase, urging that greater attention be paid to the financial constraints of low-income households. (Docket E-2 Sub 1300) The NCCC first requested dividing the single Residential Rate Class into […]

The NC Council of Churches files a comment with the NC Utility Commission in support of low-income households

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

RALEIGH, NC – The North Carolina Council of Churches (Council) has filed a comment with the North Carolina Utility Commission (Commission) about Duke Energy’s proposed rate increase, urging that greater attention be paid to the financial constraints of low-income households. (Docket E-2 Sub 1300) The NCCC first requested dividing the single Residential Rate Class into […]

2023 Lenten Guide: Palm Sunday

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Matthew 21:1-11 When they had come near Jerusalem and had reached Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, “Go into the village ahead of you, and immediately you […]

2023 Lenten Guide: Palm Sunday

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Matthew 21:1-11 When they had come near Jerusalem and had reached Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, “Go into the village ahead of you, and immediately you […]

Upcoming symposium to focus on the continual harm inflicted by Confederate monuments

· The Pulse

The North Carolina Commission on Racial and Ethnic Disparities in the Criminal Justice System will host a symposium next month focusing on the harms posed by confederate monuments. The all-day event will be held at Shaw University on April 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Click here to register. “Confederate monuments are not simply relics to […]

Upcoming symposium to focus on the continual harm inflicted by Confederate monuments

· The Pulse

The North Carolina Commission on Racial and Ethnic Disparities in the Criminal Justice System will host a symposium next month focusing on the harms posed by confederate monuments. The all-day event will be held at Shaw University on April 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Click here to register. “Confederate monuments are not simply relics to […]

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Addiction Professionals of North Carolina Supports Faith-Based BIPOC Mental Health Grant

· PR Newswire

Addiction Professionals of North Carolina announces our collaborative partnership with Mount Vernon Christian Church (MVCC) in Clayton, NC to provide mental health awareness and education. MVCC received a grant from the North Carolina Council of Churches Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) to support mental health awareness and education within Black & Brown, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) faith […]

Addiction Professionals of North Carolina Supports Faith-Based BIPOC Mental Health Grant

· PR Newswire

Addiction Professionals of North Carolina announces our collaborative partnership with Mount Vernon Christian Church (MVCC) in Clayton, NC to provide mental health awareness and education. MVCC received a grant from the North Carolina Council of Churches Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) to support mental health awareness and education within Black & Brown, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) faith […]

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N.C.’s court of supreme do-overs

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

High on the granite façade of the North Carolina Supreme Court’s headquarters across from the Capitol in downtown Raleigh is engraved what can be seen as an inspiring and enduring promise: “Law and Justice.”  These days one has to wonder whether a footnote should be added, along the lines of “That Was Then, This Is […]

N.C.’s court of supreme do-overs

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

High on the granite façade of the North Carolina Supreme Court’s headquarters across from the Capitol in downtown Raleigh is engraved what can be seen as an inspiring and enduring promise: “Law and Justice.”  These days one has to wonder whether a footnote should be added, along the lines of “That Was Then, This Is […]

2023 Lenten Guide: Fifth Sunday in Lent

By Rev. Dr. Arlecia Simmons, Partners in Health and Wholeness East Regional Associate Director

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 130 Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord.    Lord, hear my voice!Let your ears be attentive    to the voice of my supplications! If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities,    Lord, who could stand?But there […]

2023 Lenten Guide: Fifth Sunday in Lent

by Rev. Dr. Arlecia Simmons, Partners in Health and Wholeness East Regional Associate Director

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 130 Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord.    Lord, hear my voice!Let your ears be attentive    to the voice of my supplications! If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities,    Lord, who could stand?But there […]

2023 Lenten Guide: Fourth Sunday in Lent

By Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Ephesians 5:8-14 For once you were darkness, but now in the Lord you are light. Walk as children of light, for the fruit of the light is found in all that is good and right […]

2023 Lenten Guide: Fourth Sunday in Lent

by Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Ephesians 5:8-14 For once you were darkness, but now in the Lord you are light. Walk as children of light, for the fruit of the light is found in all that is good and right […]

2023 Lenten Guide: Third Sunday in Lent

By Ren Martin, Eco-Justice Connection Program Coordinator

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 95 O come, let us sing to the Lord;    let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving;    let us make a joyful noise to […]

2023 Lenten Guide: Third Sunday in Lent

by Ren Martin, Eco-Justice Connection Program Coordinator

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 95 O come, let us sing to the Lord;    let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving;    let us make a joyful noise to […]

2023 Lenten Guide: Second Sunday in Lent

By Elizabeth Brewington, Overdose Response Program Coordinator

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Genesis 12:1-4a Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. I will make of you a great nation, and […]

2023 Lenten Guide: Second Sunday in Lent

by Elizabeth Brewington, Overdose Response Program Coordinator

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Genesis 12:1-4a Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. I will make of you a great nation, and […]

Out of the starting gate — sideways

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

We weren’t expecting it to be pretty – “it” being the launch of the N.C. General Assembly’s new session, with freshly emboldened conservatives eager to flex their muscles. The reality, one month after things got under way, hasn’t failed to disappoint. Two themes stand out: 1) Efforts to further entrench the legislature’s majority Republicans in […]

Out of the starting gate — sideways

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

We weren’t expecting it to be pretty – “it” being the launch of the N.C. General Assembly’s new session, with freshly emboldened conservatives eager to flex their muscles. The reality, one month after things got under way, hasn’t failed to disappoint. Two themes stand out: 1) Efforts to further entrench the legislature’s majority Republicans in […]

2023 Lenten Guide: First Sunday in Lent

By Sean Allen, Director of Finance and Administration

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Genesis 2:15-17, 3:1-7 The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to till it and keep it. And the Lord God commanded the man, “You may freely eat of every tree of […]

2023 Lenten Guide: First Sunday in Lent

by Sean Allen, Director of Finance and Administration

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Genesis 2:15-17, 3:1-7 The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to till it and keep it. And the Lord God commanded the man, “You may freely eat of every tree of […]

2023 Lenten Guide: Ash Wednesday

By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Matthew 6:1-6 Beware of practicing your righteousness before others in order to be seen by them, for then you have no reward from your Father in heaven. “So whenever you give alms, do […]

2023 Lenten Guide: Ash Wednesday

by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Matthew 6:1-6 Beware of practicing your righteousness before others in order to be seen by them, for then you have no reward from your Father in heaven. “So whenever you give alms, do […]

2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Years ago I preached for a friend in a “high church,” Lutheran Church in Washington, D.C.’s Capital District. As an aside, my students and I also were treated to a private tour of the House of Representatives because my friend was friends with the Chaplain to the House. Yes, that was me waving from the […]

2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Years ago I preached for a friend in a “high church,” Lutheran Church in Washington, D.C.’s Capital District. As an aside, my students and I also were treated to a private tour of the House of Representatives because my friend was friends with the Chaplain to the House. Yes, that was me waving from the […]

Hours after Michigan shooting, North Carolina Republicans advance bills to loosen state gun laws

· NC Policy Watch

GOP lawmakers have passed similar legislation expanding gun access in past legislative sessions. This time, they might have the votes to override the governor’s veto. Hours after three students at Michigan State University were killed by a man who ultimately turned his gun on himself, North Carolina Republicans unveiled several bills Tuesday aimed at making it easier […]

Hours after Michigan shooting, North Carolina Republicans advance bills to loosen state gun laws

· NC Policy Watch

GOP lawmakers have passed similar legislation expanding gun access in past legislative sessions. This time, they might have the votes to override the governor’s veto. Hours after three students at Michigan State University were killed by a man who ultimately turned his gun on himself, North Carolina Republicans unveiled several bills Tuesday aimed at making it easier […]

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More North Carolinians died of opioid overdoses in 2022 than ever before

· North Carolina Public Radio

North Carolina saw record highs in opioid overdose hospitalizations and deaths in 2022. Some policies enacted in the middle of the last decade had helped to reverse trends from the opioid epidemic. But the pandemic wiped out those gains and contributed to a worsening crisis that continued through last year. “People were isolated. They weren’t […]

More North Carolinians died of opioid overdoses in 2022 than ever before

· North Carolina Public Radio

North Carolina saw record highs in opioid overdose hospitalizations and deaths in 2022. Some policies enacted in the middle of the last decade had helped to reverse trends from the opioid epidemic. But the pandemic wiped out those gains and contributed to a worsening crisis that continued through last year. “People were isolated. They weren’t […]

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Veto Showdowns and Voter ID

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The N.C. General Assembly gathered on Jan. 11 amid trappings of ceremony and good cheer to kick off its 2023 session. Then reality reared its head: At least in the state House, the majority party apparently intends to play rough. Democrats in the minority are left to wonder if their Republican counterparts see them not […]

Veto Showdowns and Voter ID

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The N.C. General Assembly gathered on Jan. 11 amid trappings of ceremony and good cheer to kick off its 2023 session. Then reality reared its head: At least in the state House, the majority party apparently intends to play rough. Democrats in the minority are left to wonder if their Republican counterparts see them not […]

Job Opening: WNC PHW Regional Associate Director

By North Carolina Council of Churches

North Carolina Council of ChurchesPartners in Health and Wholeness ProgramImmediate Position Opening: Western Regional Associate DirectorJanuary 2023 40 hr/wk; 3 weeks paid vacation; paid sick leave, HSA contributionLocation: Western North Carolina, Location in the Triad will be considered; Travel required within N.C.3-month probationary period Retirement benefits available when the probationary period concludesSalary commensurate with experienceMust have […]

Job Opening: WNC PHW Regional Associate Director

by North Carolina Council of Churches

North Carolina Council of ChurchesPartners in Health and Wholeness ProgramImmediate Position Opening: Western Regional Associate DirectorJanuary 2023 40 hr/wk; 3 weeks paid vacation; paid sick leave, HSA contributionLocation: Western North Carolina, Location in the Triad will be considered; Travel required within N.C.3-month probationary period Retirement benefits available when the probationary period concludesSalary commensurate with experienceMust have […]

North Carolina Council of Churches Announces Nicole Johnson as Program Director for Partners in Health and Wholeness

By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

RALEIGH, NC – On January 2, 2023, the North Carolina Council of Churches announced the next Program Director for their Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) initiative. Nicole Johnson, former Associate Program Director for PHW working specifically on denominational support within the program, was promoted to Program Director effective January 1, 2023. PHW is an […]

North Carolina Council of Churches Announces Nicole Johnson as Program Director for Partners in Health and Wholeness

by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

RALEIGH, NC – On January 2, 2023, the North Carolina Council of Churches announced the next Program Director for their Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) initiative. Nicole Johnson, former Associate Program Director for PHW working specifically on denominational support within the program, was promoted to Program Director effective January 1, 2023. PHW is an […]

Ecumenical Group Files Amicus Brief Supporting Fired Gay Church Worker’s Lawsuit

· New Ways Ministry

A group of Protestant churches in North Carolina has filed an amicus brief supporting a gay plaintiff’s Title VII claim against the Catholic school that fired him in 2014, according to Law360. Lonnie Billard, who taught drama and English at Charlotte Catholic High School for over fifteen years, and was the recipient of the teacher of the year award at […]

Ecumenical Group Files Amicus Brief Supporting Fired Gay Church Worker’s Lawsuit

· New Ways Ministry

A group of Protestant churches in North Carolina has filed an amicus brief supporting a gay plaintiff’s Title VII claim against the Catholic school that fired him in 2014, according to Law360. Lonnie Billard, who taught drama and English at Charlotte Catholic High School for over fifteen years, and was the recipient of the teacher of the year award at […]

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2022 Advent Guide: Epiphany of the Lord

By Ren Martin, Eco-Justice Connection Program Coordinator

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 60:1-6 Arise, shine, for your light has come,    and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.For darkness shall cover the earth    and thick darkness the peoples,but the Lord will arise upon you,    and his glory will appear over you.Nations shall come to […]

2022 Advent Guide: Epiphany of the Lord

by Ren Martin, Eco-Justice Connection Program Coordinator

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 60:1-6 Arise, shine, for your light has come,    and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.For darkness shall cover the earth    and thick darkness the peoples,but the Lord will arise upon you,    and his glory will appear over you.Nations shall come to […]

2022 Advent Guide: First Sunday after Christmas

By Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 148 Praise the Lord!Praise the Lord from the heavens;    praise him in the heights!Praise him, all his angels;    praise him, all his host! Praise him, sun and moon;    praise him, all you shining stars!Praise him, you highest heavens    and you waters above the heavens! […]

2022 Advent Guide: First Sunday after Christmas

by Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 148 Praise the Lord!Praise the Lord from the heavens;    praise him in the heights!Praise him, all his angels;    praise him, all his host! Praise him, sun and moon;    praise him, all you shining stars!Praise him, you highest heavens    and you waters above the heavens! […]

2022 Advent Guide: Christmas Day

By Rev. Dr. Arlecia Simmons, Partners in Health and Wholeness East Regional Associate Director

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 96 O sing to the Lord a new song;    sing to the Lord, all the earth.Sing to the Lord; bless his name;    tell of his salvation from day to day.Declare his glory among the nations,    his marvelous works among all the peoples.For great is […]

2022 Advent Guide: Christmas Day

by Rev. Dr. Arlecia Simmons, Partners in Health and Wholeness East Regional Associate Director

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 96 O sing to the Lord a new song;    sing to the Lord, all the earth.Sing to the Lord; bless his name;    tell of his salvation from day to day.Declare his glory among the nations,    his marvelous works among all the peoples.For great is […]

2022 Advent Guide: Fourth Sunday

By Nicole Johnson, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Matthew 1:18-25 Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be pregnant from the Holy Spirit. Her husband […]

2022 Advent Guide: Fourth Sunday

by Nicole Johnson, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Matthew 1:18-25 Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be pregnant from the Holy Spirit. Her husband […]

Friends don’t call 911 for overdoses for a reason — NC law is behind, advocates say

· The Charlotte Observer

A coalition of advocates, including parents who have lost children to overdose deaths, is calling on legislators to expand North Carolina’s Good Samaritan Law. One key change they want is for fentanyl — the biggest driver of fatal overdoses — to be listed alongside drugs like cocaine and heroin. These advocates say North Carolina’s law […]

Friends don’t call 911 for overdoses for a reason — NC law is behind, advocates say

· The Charlotte Observer

A coalition of advocates, including parents who have lost children to overdose deaths, is calling on legislators to expand North Carolina’s Good Samaritan Law. One key change they want is for fentanyl — the biggest driver of fatal overdoses — to be listed alongside drugs like cocaine and heroin. These advocates say North Carolina’s law […]

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