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Council Voices

David Gushee on “The State of Things” and in Raleigh — Tuesday

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Tune in to WUNC’s “The State of Things” on Tuesday, June 24, to hear David Gushee ahead of his evening presentation in Raleigh. “The State of Things” airs at noon, and Dr. Gushee is currently scheduled to be on from 12:20 until 12:40. If you live beyond the broadcast range of WUNC-FM, you can listen online […]

David Gushee on “The State of Things” and in Raleigh — Tuesday

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Tune in to WUNC’s “The State of Things” on Tuesday, June 24, to hear David Gushee ahead of his evening presentation in Raleigh. “The State of Things” airs at noon, and Dr. Gushee is currently scheduled to be on from 12:20 until 12:40. If you live beyond the broadcast range of WUNC-FM, you can listen online […]

National Day of Action #PutSolarOnIt

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

On June 21, the longest day of the year, Interfaith Power & Light is joining a coalition of groups to come together for a National Day of Action to show support for switching to clean energy, fighting climate change, and bringing solar power to communities all across the country. This has been a breakout year for solar. Solar equipment […]

National Day of Action #PutSolarOnIt

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

On June 21, the longest day of the year, Interfaith Power & Light is joining a coalition of groups to come together for a National Day of Action to show support for switching to clean energy, fighting climate change, and bringing solar power to communities all across the country. This has been a breakout year for solar. Solar equipment […]

Council Spotlights Education, Opportunity

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The NC Council of Churches aims to exert a positive influence on public policies that have implications for what is commonly known as social justice. What this often boils down to is spotlighting areas of decision-making in which the interests of ordinary residents – people hoping to live healthy, productive, fulfilling lives, sometimes against the […]

Council Spotlights Education, Opportunity

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The NC Council of Churches aims to exert a positive influence on public policies that have implications for what is commonly known as social justice. What this often boils down to is spotlighting areas of decision-making in which the interests of ordinary residents – people hoping to live healthy, productive, fulfilling lives, sometimes against the […]

Reflections on Immigration and the World Cup

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

I am admittedly a person who does not care about sports. However, the World Cup is one event that can even make a sports observer as apathetic as myself tune into a game that I wouldn’t normally watch. Such events in which the entire world comes together to battle it out for a world championship brings […]

Reflections on Immigration and the World Cup

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

I am admittedly a person who does not care about sports. However, the World Cup is one event that can even make a sports observer as apathetic as myself tune into a game that I wouldn’t normally watch. Such events in which the entire world comes together to battle it out for a world championship brings […]

An Interview with Mama Juggs’ Own Anita Woodley

By Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

Anita will be performing her show, "Mama Juggs," at 3 p.m.on Sunday, June 22, at Martin Street Baptist Church, 1001 E Martin St, Raleigh. This funny and informative show will be a kickoff event for the Breastfeeding Collaborative, an initiative of the NC Council of Churches that helps congregations to be breastfeeding friendly. Interviewed by Marnie Cooper Priest, project director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative. How long have you been performing the "Mama Juggs" show? On June 20 it will be the fifth anniversary of the "Mama Juggs" show. Did you have another show before...

An Interview with Mama Juggs’ Own Anita Woodley

by Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

Anita will be performing her show, “Mama Juggs,” at 3 p.m.on Sunday, June 22, at Martin Street Baptist Church, 1001 E Martin St, Raleigh. This funny and informative show will be a kickoff event for the Breastfeeding Collaborative, an initiative of the NC Council of Churches that helps congregations to be breastfeeding friendly. Interviewed by Marnie Cooper Priest, project director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative. How long have you been performing the “Mama Juggs” show? On June 20 it will be the fifth anniversary of the “Mama Juggs” show. Did you have another show before…

Two New Resources on Public Education

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council has published two new resources for people of faith interested in supporting North Carolina’s public schools. One is an abbreviated version of the Council’s materials for holding a public education Sabbath. It was compiled by Lauren Chesson, a recent graduate of the MSW program at N.C. State who will enter the MDiv program […]

Two New Resources on Public Education

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council has published two new resources for people of faith interested in supporting North Carolina’s public schools. One is an abbreviated version of the Council’s materials for holding a public education Sabbath. It was compiled by Lauren Chesson, a recent graduate of the MSW program at N.C. State who will enter the MDiv program […]

Choices, Conflicts Amid Budget Squeeze

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

First it was Gov. Pat McCrory who tried to fashion a state budget giving teachers a badly needed raise while hamstrung by large tax cuts. Then the N.C. Senate took its turn. Yes, teachers willing to give up their job security could get a pay boost. But the proposed Senate budget fails tests of fairness […]

Choices, Conflicts Amid Budget Squeeze

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

First it was Gov. Pat McCrory who tried to fashion a state budget giving teachers a badly needed raise while hamstrung by large tax cuts. Then the N.C. Senate took its turn. Yes, teachers willing to give up their job security could get a pay boost. But the proposed Senate budget fails tests of fairness […]

Video from June 9 Moral Monday

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The June 9 Moral Monday sent a powerful message to state leaders about the value North Carolinians place on strong public schools. If you couldn’t be there, our friends at the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina have shared some video with us. June 9 Moral Monday on Education Bishop Michael Curry’s Remarks And if you’d […]

Video from June 9 Moral Monday

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The June 9 Moral Monday sent a powerful message to state leaders about the value North Carolinians place on strong public schools. If you couldn’t be there, our friends at the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina have shared some video with us. June 9 Moral Monday on Education Bishop Michael Curry’s Remarks And if you’d […]

EPA Takes Moral Action to Cut Carbon Pollution from Power Plants

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

On June 2, the EPA acted on our moral obligation to address unlimited carbon pollution coming from the nation’s power plants, the single largest source of global warming pollution in the country. The new standards will help usher in clean energy solutions like improved efficiency and solar power: things that NC Interfaith Power & Light congregations have been […]

EPA Takes Moral Action to Cut Carbon Pollution from Power Plants

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

On June 2, the EPA acted on our moral obligation to address unlimited carbon pollution coming from the nation’s power plants, the single largest source of global warming pollution in the country. The new standards will help usher in clean energy solutions like improved efficiency and solar power: things that NC Interfaith Power & Light congregations have been […]

Take Action for Justice in North Carolina Tobacco Fields

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Workers in tobacco fields suffer the same injustices that other farmworkers face, including the low wages, weak workplace protections, and harsh conditions. However, their work is even more unhealthy and dangerous because of risks posed by pesticides and Green Tobacco Sickness, a health risk specific to prolonged exposure to tobacco plants. Such abuses have been documented and […]

Take Action for Justice in North Carolina Tobacco Fields

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Workers in tobacco fields suffer the same injustices that other farmworkers face, including the low wages, weak workplace protections, and harsh conditions. However, their work is even more unhealthy and dangerous because of risks posed by pesticides and Green Tobacco Sickness, a health risk specific to prolonged exposure to tobacco plants. Such abuses have been documented and […]

Men’s Health Week and Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

There’s lots to celebrate this month. Besides my birthday (smile), the month of June is when we observe Men’s Health Week and National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month. These two issues, each important enough on their own, also overlap as men are encouraged to eat nutritious, well-balanced meals in order to remain healthy and strong. Our nation’s dietary guidelines are updated every five years, with the most recent set of guidelines released in 2010. In this report, the US Department of Agriculture advises both men and women to...

Men’s Health Week and Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month

by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

There’s lots to celebrate this month. Besides my birthday (smile), the month of June is when we observe Men’s Health Week and National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month. These two issues, each important enough on their own, also overlap as men are encouraged to eat nutritious, well-balanced meals in order to remain healthy and strong. Our nation’s dietary guidelines are updated every five years, with the most recent set of guidelines released in 2010. In this report, the US Department of Agriculture advises both men and women to…

Critical Issues Seminar — Late Registration

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Registration for the Council’s 2014 Critical Issues Seminar on Public Education with a guaranteed lunch has been extended for those who do not require a gluten-free or vegan meal. Those registrations must be submitted online by 8 a.m. on Thursday, June 12. The seminar takes place Monday, June 16, 9 a.m.-3:45 p.m., at United Church […]

Critical Issues Seminar — Late Registration

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Registration for the Council’s 2014 Critical Issues Seminar on Public Education with a guaranteed lunch has been extended for those who do not require a gluten-free or vegan meal. Those registrations must be submitted online by 8 a.m. on Thursday, June 12. The seminar takes place Monday, June 16, 9 a.m.-3:45 p.m., at United Church […]

Full Program Available for Critical Issues Seminar on Public Education

By Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

The full program for the our 2014 Critical Issues Seminar on Public Education is now available on the website. It includes registration information, the schedule for the day, and a complete list of workshops and presenters. We are really excited about all the wonderful speakers and presenters who will be joining us to share their knowledge […]

Full Program Available for Critical Issues Seminar on Public Education

by Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

The full program for the our 2014 Critical Issues Seminar on Public Education is now available on the website. It includes registration information, the schedule for the day, and a complete list of workshops and presenters. We are really excited about all the wonderful speakers and presenters who will be joining us to share their knowledge […]

Sandy Irving to Receive Distinguished Service Award

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

  Sandy is on the right. Her friend, Susan Cummings, is pictured on the left.   I am pleased to announce that the Council’s 2014 Distinguished Service Award will be presented to Sandy Irving. This Award is presented each year to someone with an exceptional and extended record of service, through the North Carolina Council […]

Sandy Irving to Receive Distinguished Service Award

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

  Sandy is on the right. Her friend, Susan Cummings, is pictured on the left.   I am pleased to announce that the Council’s 2014 Distinguished Service Award will be presented to Sandy Irving. This Award is presented each year to someone with an exceptional and extended record of service, through the North Carolina Council […]

Health Crunch for the Vulnerable

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For most North Carolinians, the myriad choices that comprise the state budget may affect the quality of their children’s education, or whether their favorite state park is kept in good shape, or whether the DMV has enough employees to keep wait times to a minimum. Then there are our neighbors for whom budget decisions can […]

Health Crunch for the Vulnerable

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For most North Carolinians, the myriad choices that comprise the state budget may affect the quality of their children’s education, or whether their favorite state park is kept in good shape, or whether the DMV has enough employees to keep wait times to a minimum. Then there are our neighbors for whom budget decisions can […]

Early Voting — Contact Your Local Board of Elections

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

One of the most harmful parts of last year’s voter suppression bill was the limitation on early voting. There had been 17 days of it. Last year’s bill, adopted by the General Assembly and signed by the Governor, shortened that to 10 days. This can make it harder on working people who must take time […]

Early Voting — Contact Your Local Board of Elections

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

One of the most harmful parts of last year’s voter suppression bill was the limitation on early voting. There had been 17 days of it. Last year’s bill, adopted by the General Assembly and signed by the Governor, shortened that to 10 days. This can make it harder on working people who must take time […]

Worship Resource for Pentecost: Breaking Down Barriers

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Program Associate Jennie Wilburn has created a worship resource for Pentecost as an opportunity to break down linguistic and cultural barriers through the Holy Spirit. Jennie writes: This collection of worship resources can be used in your congregation on Pentecost Sunday (or any other time) to celebrate the fact that Pentecost is a culturally and […]

Worship Resource for Pentecost: Breaking Down Barriers

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Program Associate Jennie Wilburn has created a worship resource for Pentecost as an opportunity to break down linguistic and cultural barriers through the Holy Spirit. Jennie writes: This collection of worship resources can be used in your congregation on Pentecost Sunday (or any other time) to celebrate the fact that Pentecost is a culturally and […]

Senate Budget, Fracking Roar Through

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Say this much for the leaders of the North Carolina Senate and House: When they make up their minds on a course of action, they don’t mess around. The General Assembly was in only the second full week of its 2014 session. But already the Senate, marching quick-time to the cadence set by President Pro […]

Senate Budget, Fracking Roar Through

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Say this much for the leaders of the North Carolina Senate and House: When they make up their minds on a course of action, they don’t mess around. The General Assembly was in only the second full week of its 2014 session. But already the Senate, marching quick-time to the cadence set by President Pro […]

In the Media: The Moral Urgency of Farmworkers

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

A few weeks ago, Human Rights Watch published a report on child labor in tobacco farming. Below, former NCCC intern John Zambenini comments on the large amount of media attention that this report has generated and how you can help children in the fields. This post was originally published on the Farmworker Advocacy Network blog. […]

In the Media: The Moral Urgency of Farmworkers

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

A few weeks ago, Human Rights Watch published a report on child labor in tobacco farming. Below, former NCCC intern John Zambenini comments on the large amount of media attention that this report has generated and how you can help children in the fields. This post was originally published on the Farmworker Advocacy Network blog. […]

Gushee, Powery, Cowger Discussion Marks Torture Awareness Month

By Leslie Ware, Anti-Torture Project Coordinator

June is Torture Awareness Month, and we are gearing up for a presentation by David Gushee, Distinguished University Professor of Christian Ethics and the Director of the Center for Theology and Public Life at Mercer University. The event takes place on June 24 at 7 p.m. at Raleigh’s Pullen Memorial Baptist Church. Joining Dr. Gushee are Rev. Luke […]

Gushee, Powery, Cowger Discussion Marks Torture Awareness Month

by Leslie Ware, Anti-Torture Project Coordinator

June is Torture Awareness Month, and we are gearing up for a presentation by David Gushee, Distinguished University Professor of Christian Ethics and the Director of the Center for Theology and Public Life at Mercer University. The event takes place on June 24 at 7 p.m. at Raleigh’s Pullen Memorial Baptist Church. Joining Dr. Gushee are Rev. Luke […]

PHW Success Story – United Progressive Baptist, Winston-Salem

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

United Progressive Baptist Church has had many successes improving the health of the members of our congregation. During our Vacation Bible School, we were able to engage the youth of the church and community in physical activity. During Revival, we provided the pastors with fruit as a healthy option. Most recently, the church members redid […]

PHW Success Story – United Progressive Baptist, Winston-Salem

by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

United Progressive Baptist Church has had many successes improving the health of the members of our congregation. During our Vacation Bible School, we were able to engage the youth of the church and community in physical activity. During Revival, we provided the pastors with fruit as a healthy option. Most recently, the church members redid […]

We Drew a Line in the Sand

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

On Saturday, May 17, at noon, about 30 people gathered at the Atlantic Beach/Fort Macon Swimming Beach for the nation-wide “Hands Across the Sand Demonstration” to promote clean energy and protest offshore oil drilling. The following organizations were represented: NC Interfaith Power and Light, Croatan Group of the NC Sierra Club, the Surfriders Association and […]

We Drew a Line in the Sand

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

On Saturday, May 17, at noon, about 30 people gathered at the Atlantic Beach/Fort Macon Swimming Beach for the nation-wide “Hands Across the Sand Demonstration” to promote clean energy and protest offshore oil drilling. The following organizations were represented: NC Interfaith Power and Light, Croatan Group of the NC Sierra Club, the Surfriders Association and […]

One-Woman Show Kicks Off Breastfeeding Collaborative

By Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

The Partners in Health and Wholeness Breastfeeding Collaborative kicks off with a performance by Anita Woodley of her one-woman show, “Mama Juggs.” Woodley is a nationally renowned local performer and former producer of WUNC-FM’s “The Story.” Her show about breastfeeding and the health of women and children is a fiercely funny, powerful experience that incorporates true stories […]

One-Woman Show Kicks Off Breastfeeding Collaborative

by Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

The Partners in Health and Wholeness Breastfeeding Collaborative kicks off with a performance by Anita Woodley of her one-woman show, “Mama Juggs.” Woodley is a nationally renowned local performer and former producer of WUNC-FM’s “The Story.” Her show about breastfeeding and the health of women and children is a fiercely funny, powerful experience that incorporates true stories […]

Fracking and “Reform”: Senate’s Shaky Start

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The North Carolina Senate could have gotten its 2014 session under way with a show of resolve to repair some of the damage from last year’s debacle. Just as one friendly suggestion: Senators could have reversed course and moved at the outset to expand the state’s Medicaid program, utilizing the available federal funds, so that […]

Fracking and “Reform”: Senate’s Shaky Start

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The North Carolina Senate could have gotten its 2014 session under way with a show of resolve to repair some of the damage from last year’s debacle. Just as one friendly suggestion: Senators could have reversed course and moved at the outset to expand the state’s Medicaid program, utilizing the available federal funds, so that […]

Representative Holley Endorses the Breastfeeding Collaborative

By Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

District 38 representative Yvonne Holley recently visited the offices of the North Carolina Council of Churches. She came to express her support for one of the Council’s newest initiatives, The Partners in Health and Wholeness Breastfeeding Collaborative. Rep. Holley is pictured above with the Collaborative’s project director, Marnie Cooper Priest, and with PHW Coordinator Willona […]

Representative Holley Endorses the Breastfeeding Collaborative

by Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

District 38 representative Yvonne Holley recently visited the offices of the North Carolina Council of Churches. She came to express her support for one of the Council’s newest initiatives, The Partners in Health and Wholeness Breastfeeding Collaborative. Rep. Holley is pictured above with the Collaborative’s project director, Marnie Cooper Priest, and with PHW Coordinator Willona […]

Tax Cuts’ Sour Notes

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

If a session of the NC General Assembly can be compared to an opera — comedy, farce or tragedy yet to be determined – then the governor’s recommended budget might amount to the overture. It introduces main themes and sets a mood. But there’s no guarantee that the governor and the legislators who are the […]

Tax Cuts’ Sour Notes

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

If a session of the NC General Assembly can be compared to an opera — comedy, farce or tragedy yet to be determined – then the governor’s recommended budget might amount to the overture. It introduces main themes and sets a mood. But there’s no guarantee that the governor and the legislators who are the […]

From Superior Court to Supreme Court, Education in the News

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Education figured prominently in the news over the past few days, both nationally and locally. As a country, we marked the 60th anniversary of Brown vs. Board of Education, the landmark ruling that separate was inherently unequal in education and which set American schools on the path to integration and parity. At least, that was […]

From Superior Court to Supreme Court, Education in the News

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Education figured prominently in the news over the past few days, both nationally and locally. As a country, we marked the 60th anniversary of Brown vs. Board of Education, the landmark ruling that separate was inherently unequal in education and which set American schools on the path to integration and parity. At least, that was […]

Looming Battles Over the Schools

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina legislators may think they have their hands full trying to defuse the hot political issue of the moment – the state’s woeful pay levels for its public school teachers, now averaging 46th in the nation – while also closing budget shortfalls aggravated by unwise tax cuts. Gov. Pat McCrory wants his Republican allies […]

Looming Battles Over the Schools

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina legislators may think they have their hands full trying to defuse the hot political issue of the moment – the state’s woeful pay levels for its public school teachers, now averaging 46th in the nation – while also closing budget shortfalls aggravated by unwise tax cuts. Gov. Pat McCrory wants his Republican allies […]

David Gushee: Coming to Terms with Torture: Truth, Accountability, and Renunciation

By Leslie Ware, Anti-Torture Project Coordinator

“This nation admits its errors, as painful as they may be.”  — Sen. Dianne Feinstein, April 3, 2014. On June 24, noted theologian David P. Gushee will speak at Raleigh’s Pullen Memorial Baptist Church, presenting his thoughts on “Coming to Terms with Torture: Truth, Accountability, and Reconciliation.” Dr. Gushee is the Distinguished University Professor of […]

David Gushee: Coming to Terms with Torture: Truth, Accountability, and Renunciation

by Leslie Ware, Anti-Torture Project Coordinator

“This nation admits its errors, as painful as they may be.”  — Sen. Dianne Feinstein, April 3, 2014. On June 24, noted theologian David P. Gushee will speak at Raleigh’s Pullen Memorial Baptist Church, presenting his thoughts on “Coming to Terms with Torture: Truth, Accountability, and Reconciliation.” Dr. Gushee is the Distinguished University Professor of […]

Food Drive at Critical Issues Seminar for Backpack Buddies

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

In conjunction with the Critical Issues Seminar on Public Education in June, the NC Council of Churches will be collecting non-perishable items to support Inter-Faith Food Shuttle’s Backpack Buddies program. In addition, Catering with a Cause, an IFFS job-training program, is providing the lunch for seminar participants. According to Feeding America, North Carolina ranks in the ten worst […]

Food Drive at Critical Issues Seminar for Backpack Buddies

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

In conjunction with the Critical Issues Seminar on Public Education in June, the NC Council of Churches will be collecting non-perishable items to support Inter-Faith Food Shuttle’s Backpack Buddies program. In addition, Catering with a Cause, an IFFS job-training program, is providing the lunch for seminar participants. According to Feeding America, North Carolina ranks in the ten worst […]

Buckle Up – Here Comes the Legislature

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The motto of North Carolina’s General Assembly during the past few years could well have been something like “Never a dull moment!” That’s especially been the case as the economy has muddled through various slumps, none so damaging as the Great Recession from which the state and nation still feel aftershocks in the job market. […]

Buckle Up – Here Comes the Legislature

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The motto of North Carolina’s General Assembly during the past few years could well have been something like “Never a dull moment!” That’s especially been the case as the economy has muddled through various slumps, none so damaging as the Great Recession from which the state and nation still feel aftershocks in the job market. […]

‘Tis the Season for Local Food

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Wait, isn’t that a line from a Christmas song?  Well, yes.  But, when it comes to living a healthy life, what time of year could be better than right now? Temperatures are warming up and farmers markets are opening, making it more desirable to get outside to exercise […]

‘Tis the Season for Local Food

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Wait, isn’t that a line from a Christmas song?  Well, yes.  But, when it comes to living a healthy life, what time of year could be better than right now? Temperatures are warming up and farmers markets are opening, making it more desirable to get outside to exercise […]

Screen-Free Week

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Did you know it is Screen-Free Week? During this annual, international celebration, schools, families, and community groups pledge to spend seven days without entertainment screen media. Instead of watching TV, surfing the web, or playing video games, they read, play, think, create, get physically active, and spend more time with friends and family. While there are […]

Screen-Free Week

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Did you know it is Screen-Free Week? During this annual, international celebration, schools, families, and community groups pledge to spend seven days without entertainment screen media. Instead of watching TV, surfing the web, or playing video games, they read, play, think, create, get physically active, and spend more time with friends and family. While there are […]

Will your Church be a Voice to Expand Medicaid for NC?

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

History will have to record that the greatest tragedy of this period of social transition was not the strident clamor of the bad people, but the appalling silence of the good people. –Martin Luther King, Jr. As many of you know, the 2013 NC legislature declined to accept medicaid expansion for 500,000 North Carolinians. It is […]

Will your Church be a Voice to Expand Medicaid for NC?

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

History will have to record that the greatest tragedy of this period of social transition was not the strident clamor of the bad people, but the appalling silence of the good people. –Martin Luther King, Jr. As many of you know, the 2013 NC legislature declined to accept medicaid expansion for 500,000 North Carolinians. It is […]

Education Events on Tap

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The turmoil in North Carolina’s public schools, caused by budget cuts and ill-advised policy choices, has gotten people’s attention. On Saturday, May 3, there’ll be an opportunity to take a closer look at where things stand and what the stakes are for all involved – which, when we’re talking about the schools, means everyone who […]

Education Events on Tap

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The turmoil in North Carolina’s public schools, caused by budget cuts and ill-advised policy choices, has gotten people’s attention. On Saturday, May 3, there’ll be an opportunity to take a closer look at where things stand and what the stakes are for all involved – which, when we’re talking about the schools, means everyone who […]

We Rejoice in Baptism, We Reject Torture

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

I was baptized a Baptist as a child, confirmed an Episcopalian as an adult.  I stood by as three of my own dozed through being “marked as Christ’s own forever” and have attended a multitude of services in other churches as the babies and children of friends were welcomed into the family of God. Here’s […]

We Rejoice in Baptism, We Reject Torture

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

I was baptized a Baptist as a child, confirmed an Episcopalian as an adult.  I stood by as three of my own dozed through being “marked as Christ’s own forever” and have attended a multitude of services in other churches as the babies and children of friends were welcomed into the family of God. Here’s […]

Teachers Feel the Strain

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina’s public school classrooms these days seem to be running short of happy campers where they’re most needed — among the teachers whose noble job it is to lead the way toward learning. Teachers in this state have been put through a professional and career wringer, thanks to a General Assembly that has systematically […]

Teachers Feel the Strain

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina’s public school classrooms these days seem to be running short of happy campers where they’re most needed — among the teachers whose noble job it is to lead the way toward learning. Teachers in this state have been put through a professional and career wringer, thanks to a General Assembly that has systematically […]

To All Who Love God’s Creation and Hope for the Future

By Kathy Shea, Former Senior Advisor - NCIPL

As we enter Easter Season, the time when Christians celebrate the greatest mystery of our faith, we find ourselves poised to meet the greatest challenge in humanity’s history. Climate change is here, it is real and it is progressing. As a species, we have failed to respond to the prophetic voices of our scientists and can […]

To All Who Love God’s Creation and Hope for the Future

by Kathy Shea, Former Senior Advisor - NCIPL

As we enter Easter Season, the time when Christians celebrate the greatest mystery of our faith, we find ourselves poised to meet the greatest challenge in humanity’s history. Climate change is here, it is real and it is progressing. As a species, we have failed to respond to the prophetic voices of our scientists and can […]

Easter Greeting from the Council

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Revival, Renewal, Resurrection Blessings of Easter from George, Rose, Willona, Aleta, Donna, Susannah, Collins, Joy, Shannon, Marnie, Trinh, Crystal, Sandy, Steve, Lauren, Amanda, and John

Easter Greeting from the Council

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Revival, Renewal, Resurrection Blessings of Easter from George, Rose, Willona, Aleta, Donna, Susannah, Collins, Joy, Shannon, Marnie, Trinh, Crystal, Sandy, Steve, Lauren, Amanda, and John

Farmworkers in NC

Farmworkers — God’s Family Supplying Our Food

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

We have all heard about farmworkers who supply us with cheap food but cannot afford food for their own families. This is a contradiction to God’s world of abundance with enough for everyone and contradictory to Biblical teachings to pay just wages. In addition to low wages, we often hear that farmworkers are in one of the most […]

Farmworkers — God’s Family Supplying Our Food

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

We have all heard about farmworkers who supply us with cheap food but cannot afford food for their own families. This is a contradiction to God’s world of abundance with enough for everyone and contradictory to Biblical teachings to pay just wages. In addition to low wages, we often hear that farmworkers are in one of the most […]

Lutherans Sponsor Conference to Ponder Justice and Faith

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

When the line to check in at a church-sponsored conference on a beautiful Saturday morning in April stretches out the door, it’s a sign that the event has generated an impressive level of buzz. For the North Carolina Lutherans, their faith partners and other friends who turned out in strength on April 12, those more […]

Lutherans Sponsor Conference to Ponder Justice and Faith

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

When the line to check in at a church-sponsored conference on a beautiful Saturday morning in April stretches out the door, it’s a sign that the event has generated an impressive level of buzz. For the North Carolina Lutherans, their faith partners and other friends who turned out in strength on April 12, those more […]

Recording of Shared Use Agreement Webinar Now Available

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

If you were unable to join the March 28th webinar on Shared Use Agreements, you missed a real treat. However, it’s not too late to learn how your congregation can promote physical activity in your local community by allowing outside groups and individuals to use your facilities. For a copy of the slides, please contact […]

Recording of Shared Use Agreement Webinar Now Available

by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

If you were unable to join the March 28th webinar on Shared Use Agreements, you missed a real treat. However, it’s not too late to learn how your congregation can promote physical activity in your local community by allowing outside groups and individuals to use your facilities. For a copy of the slides, please contact […]

PHW Community Hero: Helen Livingston of Scotland County

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Meet one of our community leaders: Helen Livingston of Scotland County. I was able to get her to tell us a bit about herself and her community involvement. Joy: Ms. Helen, could you tell us a bit of a bio of your life and ways that you have contributed to the community? Helen: I grew […]

PHW Community Hero: Helen Livingston of Scotland County

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Meet one of our community leaders: Helen Livingston of Scotland County. I was able to get her to tell us a bit about herself and her community involvement. Joy: Ms. Helen, could you tell us a bit of a bio of your life and ways that you have contributed to the community? Helen: I grew […]

Lex, Rufus and Peter

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

I recently took a wonderful walk down Memory Lane for me, though it was also poignant at times. On a Saturday, the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina sponsored a remembrance of Lex Mathews. Lex was the first Christian Social Ministries Director for the Diocese, serving from 1975 until his untimely death in 1985. Just about anybody […]

Lex, Rufus and Peter

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

I recently took a wonderful walk down Memory Lane for me, though it was also poignant at times. On a Saturday, the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina sponsored a remembrance of Lex Mathews. Lex was the first Christian Social Ministries Director for the Diocese, serving from 1975 until his untimely death in 1985. Just about anybody […]

ACA Update: Numbers, Enrollment Periods, and Exemptions

By Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

As open enrollment for the health insurance marketplace comes to a close, so does my internship at the NC Council of Churches. In less than two weeks, I will complete my classes and move on to awaiting graduation. Before I take my leave, I want to express what a pleasure it has been to work […]

ACA Update: Numbers, Enrollment Periods, and Exemptions

by Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

As open enrollment for the health insurance marketplace comes to a close, so does my internship at the NC Council of Churches. In less than two weeks, I will complete my classes and move on to awaiting graduation. Before I take my leave, I want to express what a pleasure it has been to work […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Circle Maker, Chapter Six

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Just look for the picture of the apple on the books and you will find past Book Club entries. Our current choice of reading […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Circle Maker, Chapter Six

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Just look for the picture of the apple on the books and you will find past Book Club entries. Our current choice of reading […]

A Chance to Enjoy God’s Creation

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Last week Rev. Sally Bingham, founder of Interfaith Power & Light, simply asked: “Do you remember what it was like to be a child and play in the great outdoors?” This question came in her response to the release of the first comprehensive report produced by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) since 2007. The […]

A Chance to Enjoy God’s Creation

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Last week Rev. Sally Bingham, founder of Interfaith Power & Light, simply asked: “Do you remember what it was like to be a child and play in the great outdoors?” This question came in her response to the release of the first comprehensive report produced by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) since 2007. The […]

Ending Hunger Through Bread for the World

By Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

I’ve learned over the last year as I’ve worked to complete my Masters of Social Work degree that health and the availability of nutritious food are justice issues with global proportions. Having just completed an extensive research project about international food aid in partnership with a U.S. non-governmental organization for my capstone requirement, I have witnessed […]

Ending Hunger Through Bread for the World

by Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

I’ve learned over the last year as I’ve worked to complete my Masters of Social Work degree that health and the availability of nutritious food are justice issues with global proportions. Having just completed an extensive research project about international food aid in partnership with a U.S. non-governmental organization for my capstone requirement, I have witnessed […]

Deadline for Voters — April 11

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

There’s an election in the offing, and over the next few weeks candidates and their allies will be ramping up the rhetoric. North Carolinians settling in to watch some television might want to buckle their seat belts while they ride out the onslaught of campaign commercials. This year, though, there’s a catch. To vote in […]

Deadline for Voters — April 11

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

There’s an election in the offing, and over the next few weeks candidates and their allies will be ramping up the rhetoric. North Carolinians settling in to watch some television might want to buckle their seat belts while they ride out the onslaught of campaign commercials. This year, though, there’s a catch. To vote in […]

April is National Minority Health Month

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Differences in health currently exist between minorities and non-Hispanic whites in the U.S., with people of color suffering disproportionately from chronic diseases, many of which are preventable. During the month of April, your congregation is invited to commemorate National Minority Health Month by hosting events and working to improve the health of all God’s children, […]

April is National Minority Health Month

by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Differences in health currently exist between minorities and non-Hispanic whites in the U.S., with people of color suffering disproportionately from chronic diseases, many of which are preventable. During the month of April, your congregation is invited to commemorate National Minority Health Month by hosting events and working to improve the health of all God’s children, […]

Scrambling for the Bench

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Are judges politicians? And why – even in a state such as North Carolina, where judges are elected by the public – does the concept of judges who also function as politicians seem curious, if not troubling? Beyond honesty, intellect and knowledge of the law, perhaps a judge’s most important characteristic is a commitment to being […]

Scrambling for the Bench

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Are judges politicians? And why – even in a state such as North Carolina, where judges are elected by the public – does the concept of judges who also function as politicians seem curious, if not troubling? Beyond honesty, intellect and knowledge of the law, perhaps a judge’s most important characteristic is a commitment to being […]

Welcome Jennie Wilburn

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

I am delighted to announce that our Governing Board has elected Jennie Wilburn to the position of Program Associate for Immigrant and Farmworker Rights. Jennie is a 2009 cum laude graduate of Rice University with a major in Hispanic studies and sociology. At Rice, she was a recipient of the Barbara Jordan Scholarship, awarded for […]

Welcome Jennie Wilburn

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

I am delighted to announce that our Governing Board has elected Jennie Wilburn to the position of Program Associate for Immigrant and Farmworker Rights. Jennie is a 2009 cum laude graduate of Rice University with a major in Hispanic studies and sociology. At Rice, she was a recipient of the Barbara Jordan Scholarship, awarded for […]

Palm Sunday: Poverty & Education by Gene Nichol

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

In recognition of our faithful call and of this time in history, the Council’s annual Lenten guide focuses on poverty and the ways we can respond to our sisters and brothers of low-income. We hope you and your family will find cause for reflection and inspiration for action as you share this intergenerational resource together. […]

Palm Sunday: Poverty & Education by Gene Nichol

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

In recognition of our faithful call and of this time in history, the Council’s annual Lenten guide focuses on poverty and the ways we can respond to our sisters and brothers of low-income. We hope you and your family will find cause for reflection and inspiration for action as you share this intergenerational resource together. […]

Alecia’s Home

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

I’ve been engaged with Habitat for Humanity since its earliest days. In my previous life with the Baptist State Convention, I helped to promote this pathway to home ownership when it was in its first two or three years of existence. My wife and I supported Habitat financially, as best we could. And Millard Fuller, […]

Alecia’s Home

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

I’ve been engaged with Habitat for Humanity since its earliest days. In my previous life with the Baptist State Convention, I helped to promote this pathway to home ownership when it was in its first two or three years of existence. My wife and I supported Habitat financially, as best we could. And Millard Fuller, […]

Please Thank Sen. Burr

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Please join us in thanking Sen. Burr for his vote to release portions of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence’s report on torture. Many of you have joined us over the last several months in calling for Sen. Burr to vote for transparency and the ability of each of us to see the findings for […]

Please Thank Sen. Burr

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Please join us in thanking Sen. Burr for his vote to release portions of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence’s report on torture. Many of you have joined us over the last several months in calling for Sen. Burr to vote for transparency and the ability of each of us to see the findings for […]

Common Sense Economics — How the Church Can Help

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Bad news about how we treat hourly workers consumes our headlines daily. Half of fast food workers need public aid.  Tipped workers in the US make $2.13 an hour as base pay and haven’t had a raise since 1991. The federal minimum wage has been below what’s needed to keep a family of three out of poverty […]

Common Sense Economics — How the Church Can Help

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Bad news about how we treat hourly workers consumes our headlines daily. Half of fast food workers need public aid.  Tipped workers in the US make $2.13 an hour as base pay and haven’t had a raise since 1991. The federal minimum wage has been below what’s needed to keep a family of three out of poverty […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Circle Maker, Chapter Five

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Just look for the picture of the apple on the books and you will find past Book Club entries. Our current choice of reading […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Circle Maker, Chapter Five

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Just look for the picture of the apple on the books and you will find past Book Club entries. Our current choice of reading […]

Healthy North Carolina 2020: Are We Gaining or Losing Ground?

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Healthy North Carolina 2020 is a health improvement plan for our state. It addresses a wide range of issues that impact our health, such as tobacco use, physical activity and nutrition, mental health, and injury and violence. Optimal goals have been established in each of these areas, with a 2020 deadline for achieving them. So […]

Healthy North Carolina 2020: Are We Gaining or Losing Ground?

by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Healthy North Carolina 2020 is a health improvement plan for our state. It addresses a wide range of issues that impact our health, such as tobacco use, physical activity and nutrition, mental health, and injury and violence. Optimal goals have been established in each of these areas, with a 2020 deadline for achieving them. So […]

New Health Resource Focuses on Early Childhood Brain Development

By Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

The brain, one of the only organs not fully developed at birth, experiences 90% of its development before age eight. The 2000 days between birth and the start of kindergarten is the focus of a new resource, released by The North Carolina Early Childhood Foundation, for congregations that would like to help each child to […]

New Health Resource Focuses on Early Childhood Brain Development

by Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

The brain, one of the only organs not fully developed at birth, experiences 90% of its development before age eight. The 2000 days between birth and the start of kindergarten is the focus of a new resource, released by The North Carolina Early Childhood Foundation, for congregations that would like to help each child to […]

Fifth Sunday in Lent: Poverty & Creation

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

In recognition of our faithful call and of this time in history, the Council’s annual Lenten guide focuses on poverty and the ways we can respond to our sisters and brothers of low-income. We hope you and your family will find cause for reflection and inspiration for action as you share this intergenerational resource together. […]

Fifth Sunday in Lent: Poverty & Creation

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

In recognition of our faithful call and of this time in history, the Council’s annual Lenten guide focuses on poverty and the ways we can respond to our sisters and brothers of low-income. We hope you and your family will find cause for reflection and inspiration for action as you share this intergenerational resource together. […]

Worship Resources on Immigration

By chris

Date: Easter 3 - May 4, 2014
Topic: Immigration
Focus Text: Luke 24:13-35
The story of Jesus’ appearance to the disciples on the road to Emmaus, unique to Luke’s Gospel, is central to the evangelist’s message about the resurrection of Jesus and its meaning. It is one of the more unusual stories we hear about encountering Jesus, but it is Luke’s way of conveying that the surprising and the unexpected are to be found in the wake of Jesus’ resurrection. One of the most surprising things, at least for those disciples within the story, is that the stranger they meet on the road turns out to be the risen Christ. At every turn this story is about revealing and discovering Jesus—through scripture, through the breaking of bread, and even through encountering a stranger on the road.

Worship Resources on Immigration

by chris

Date: Easter 3 – May 4, 2014
Topic: Immigration
Focus Text: Luke 24:13-35
The story of Jesus’ appearance to the disciples on the road to Emmaus, unique to Luke’s Gospel, is central to the evangelist’s message about the resurrection of Jesus and its meaning. It is one of the more unusual stories we hear about encountering Jesus, but it is Luke’s way of conveying that the surprising and the unexpected are to be found in the wake of Jesus’ resurrection. One of the most surprising things, at least for those disciples within the story, is that the stranger they meet on the road turns out to be the risen Christ. At every turn this story is about revealing and discovering Jesus—through scripture, through the breaking of bread, and even through encountering a stranger on the road.

2014 Critical Issues Seminar — Registration is Ongoing

By Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

*To see registration form, scroll down to the middle of the page. Registration for the Council’s 2014 Critical Issues Seminar on Public Education with a guaranteed lunch has been extended for those who do not require a gluten-free or vegan meal. Those registrations must be submitted online (see form below) by 8 a.m. on Thursday, June […]

2014 Critical Issues Seminar — Registration is Ongoing

by Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

*To see registration form, scroll down to the middle of the page. Registration for the Council’s 2014 Critical Issues Seminar on Public Education with a guaranteed lunch has been extended for those who do not require a gluten-free or vegan meal. Those registrations must be submitted online (see form below) by 8 a.m. on Thursday, June […]

Grace Period Allows You to Complete Health Insurance Enrollment

By Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

According to Enroll America, If you attempted to enroll before the deadline for open enrollment on March 31, but you could not do so in spite of your best efforts, you will be allowed to complete your enrollment during the first weeks of April. The exact length of the grace period is not yet clear, […]

Grace Period Allows You to Complete Health Insurance Enrollment

by Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

According to Enroll America, If you attempted to enroll before the deadline for open enrollment on March 31, but you could not do so in spite of your best efforts, you will be allowed to complete your enrollment during the first weeks of April. The exact length of the grace period is not yet clear, […]

It’s Not a Matter of If

By chris

Here at the North Carolina Council of Churches, I've had the distinct privilege of working alongside immigrant families, faith leaders, lay activists, and immigrant rights organizations across the state in pursuit of humane fixes to our broken immigration system. While my time at the Council is drawing to a close, I know that immigration reform for our country is not a matter of if, it's when. How long will we let political games take precedence over real human suffering? I believe that in 20 or 30 years issues that seem controversial today – like whether immigrants deserve human rights, due process, and the chance to become a part of society – will be obvious.

It’s Not a Matter of If

by chris

Here at the North Carolina Council of Churches, I’ve had the distinct privilege of working alongside immigrant families, faith leaders, lay activists, and immigrant rights organizations across the state in pursuit of humane fixes to our broken immigration system. While my time at the Council is drawing to a close, I know that immigration reform for our country is not a matter of if, it’s when. How long will we let political games take precedence over real human suffering? I believe that in 20 or 30 years issues that seem controversial today – like whether immigrants deserve human rights, due process, and the chance to become a part of society – will be obvious.

Leading and Following

By John Zambenini, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

One thing that was strongly emphasized at Duke Divinity School by my New Testament professor, Dr. C. Kavin Rowe, was that Christian knowledge ultimately consists in discipleship. Knowing Jesus entails following him. And we need others to show us the way. These words crossed my mind today, as my supervisor at the North Carolina Council […]

Leading and Following

by John Zambenini, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

One thing that was strongly emphasized at Duke Divinity School by my New Testament professor, Dr. C. Kavin Rowe, was that Christian knowledge ultimately consists in discipleship. Knowing Jesus entails following him. And we need others to show us the way. These words crossed my mind today, as my supervisor at the North Carolina Council […]

PHW Success Story – Ebenezer Missionary Baptist, Wadesboro

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church in Wadesboro kicked off the New Year with a renewed focus on healthy living as a practice of their faith. To illustrate, they provided “Go Red” gift bags to women highlighting the importance of different health tests like blood glucose, blood pressure, cholesterol, and bone mineral density. They also launched a […]

PHW Success Story – Ebenezer Missionary Baptist, Wadesboro

by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church in Wadesboro kicked off the New Year with a renewed focus on healthy living as a practice of their faith. To illustrate, they provided “Go Red” gift bags to women highlighting the importance of different health tests like blood glucose, blood pressure, cholesterol, and bone mineral density. They also launched a […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Circle Maker, Chapter Four

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Just look for the picture of the apple on the books and you will find past Book Club entries. Our current choice of reading […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Circle Maker, Chapter Four

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Just look for the picture of the apple on the books and you will find past Book Club entries. Our current choice of reading […]

Out of the Ashes – Creation Care?

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Living in harmony with the world of nature has never been all that simple for us humans. One could say that the reported misadventures of a couple of folks named Adam and Eve, who had it made until they were laid low by pride, showed as much from the get-go. Our species unquestionably has a […]

Out of the Ashes – Creation Care?

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Living in harmony with the world of nature has never been all that simple for us humans. One could say that the reported misadventures of a couple of folks named Adam and Eve, who had it made until they were laid low by pride, showed as much from the get-go. Our species unquestionably has a […]

Please Call Senator Burr

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A vote is imminent on releasing the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence report on torture, and we need you to contact Sen. Richard Burr and urge him to support the release. North Carolina people of faith signed a letter last summer urging the Senator to do just that. Progress has been slow, but Sen. Dianne […]

Please Call Senator Burr

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A vote is imminent on releasing the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence report on torture, and we need you to contact Sen. Richard Burr and urge him to support the release. North Carolina people of faith signed a letter last summer urging the Senator to do just that. Progress has been slow, but Sen. Dianne […]

Voting Rights Bulletin Inserts — Printed Copies Available

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Free printed copies of bulletin inserts on why people of faith should care about fair elections are now available. Contact the Council office by e-mail or by calling 919-828-6501 to make a request. Free downloads are also available. Find the inserts by scrolling down the Council’s Voting Rights page.

Voting Rights Bulletin Inserts — Printed Copies Available

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Free printed copies of bulletin inserts on why people of faith should care about fair elections are now available. Contact the Council office by e-mail or by calling 919-828-6501 to make a request. Free downloads are also available. Find the inserts by scrolling down the Council’s Voting Rights page.

Fourth Sunday in Lent: Poverty & Housing Insecurity

By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

In recognition of our faithful call and of this time in history, the Council’s annual Lenten guide focuses on poverty and the ways we can respond to our sisters and brothers of low-income. We hope you and your family will find cause for reflection and inspiration for action as you share this intergenerational resource together. […]

Fourth Sunday in Lent: Poverty & Housing Insecurity

by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

In recognition of our faithful call and of this time in history, the Council’s annual Lenten guide focuses on poverty and the ways we can respond to our sisters and brothers of low-income. We hope you and your family will find cause for reflection and inspiration for action as you share this intergenerational resource together. […]

Food Justice Event on April 12

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Last year, I did not see many church leaders and pastors at the food and faith events I attended. I wondered if they knew about these events. As I reflected, I asked another question, “How can the valuable information I am learning about hunger, food insecurity, and food justice be accessible to church leaders and pastors?” Partners […]

Food Justice Event on April 12

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Last year, I did not see many church leaders and pastors at the food and faith events I attended. I wondered if they knew about these events. As I reflected, I asked another question, “How can the valuable information I am learning about hunger, food insecurity, and food justice be accessible to church leaders and pastors?” Partners […]

“Thank God for Health Insurance”

By Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

The end of open enrollment for the Affordable Care Act, March 31, is only days away. Although the past five months have been full of their share of challenges, stories of triumph have emerged. The ACA was, in part, written into law to expand coverage to people who had not had access to health insurance before or who […]

“Thank God for Health Insurance”

by Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

The end of open enrollment for the Affordable Care Act, March 31, is only days away. Although the past five months have been full of their share of challenges, stories of triumph have emerged. The ACA was, in part, written into law to expand coverage to people who had not had access to health insurance before or who […]

Open Enrollment Ends March 31

By Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

As the end of open enrollment on March 31 approaches, little time remains to take advantage of advanced premium tax credits and cost-sharing subsidies on Healthcare.gov. You have 10 days left to purchase health insurance that is both more affordable and comprehensive while also avoiding the penalty for not having health insurance. Remember, ACA-compliant health […]

Open Enrollment Ends March 31

by Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

As the end of open enrollment on March 31 approaches, little time remains to take advantage of advanced premium tax credits and cost-sharing subsidies on Healthcare.gov. You have 10 days left to purchase health insurance that is both more affordable and comprehensive while also avoiding the penalty for not having health insurance. Remember, ACA-compliant health […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Circle Maker, Chapter Three

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Just look for the picture of the apple on the books and you will find past Book Club entries. Our current choice of reading […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Circle Maker, Chapter Three

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Just look for the picture of the apple on the books and you will find past Book Club entries. Our current choice of reading […]

Theological Conference on Public Policy — April 12

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The call to people of faith through Moral Mondays continues to be felt. On April 12, a daylong conference takes place at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 7000 Creedmoor Road, Raleigh. “Forward Together — God’s Work, Our Hands, Faith in Action” is a theological conference exploring the public policy issues raised by Moral Mondays. The keynote […]

Theological Conference on Public Policy — April 12

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The call to people of faith through Moral Mondays continues to be felt. On April 12, a daylong conference takes place at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 7000 Creedmoor Road, Raleigh. “Forward Together — God’s Work, Our Hands, Faith in Action” is a theological conference exploring the public policy issues raised by Moral Mondays. The keynote […]

Worship Resources on the Death Penalty

By chris

Date: Good Friday - Apr. 18, 2014
Topic: The Death Penalty
Focus Text: John 18:1-19:42
Because Christians have come to understand the cross as a rich symbol of all that God has accomplished in Jesus it is sometimes easy to forget that the symbol of our faith is (or was) also an instrument of torture and execution (it is certainly more than that, but not less). The details of Jesus’ arrest, trial, and crucifixion are a reminder that Jesus did in fact receive a form of capital punishment. As ethicist Glen Stassen writes, “Christians who remember that their Lord was unjustly and cruelly given the death penalty have a hard time being enthusiastic about imposing the death penalty on others.”

Worship Resources on the Death Penalty

by chris

Date: Good Friday – Apr. 18, 2014
Topic: The Death Penalty
Focus Text: John 18:1-19:42
Because Christians have come to understand the cross as a rich symbol of all that God has accomplished in Jesus it is sometimes easy to forget that the symbol of our faith is (or was) also an instrument of torture and execution (it is certainly more than that, but not less). The details of Jesus’ arrest, trial, and crucifixion are a reminder that Jesus did in fact receive a form of capital punishment. As ethicist Glen Stassen writes, “Christians who remember that their Lord was unjustly and cruelly given the death penalty have a hard time being enthusiastic about imposing the death penalty on others.”

Bread for the World NC Conference — April 5

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

If you have not already done so, please mark your calendar for Saturday, April 5. You will not want to miss the Bread for the World NC Conference in Greensboro entitled, “Ending Hunger: Compassion Igniting Justice.” The line-up of speakers includes, Frank Stasio, host of The State of Things on North Carolina Public Radio, The Rev. J. Herbert Nelson, […]

Bread for the World NC Conference — April 5

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

If you have not already done so, please mark your calendar for Saturday, April 5. You will not want to miss the Bread for the World NC Conference in Greensboro entitled, “Ending Hunger: Compassion Igniting Justice.” The line-up of speakers includes, Frank Stasio, host of The State of Things on North Carolina Public Radio, The Rev. J. Herbert Nelson, […]

Third Sunday in Lent: Poverty & Hunger

By chris

In recognition of our faithful call and of this time in history, the Council’s annual Lenten guide focuses on poverty and the ways we can respond to our sisters and brothers of low-income. We hope you and your family will find cause for reflection and inspiration for action as you share this intergenerational resource together. […]

Third Sunday in Lent: Poverty & Hunger

by chris

In recognition of our faithful call and of this time in history, the Council’s annual Lenten guide focuses on poverty and the ways we can respond to our sisters and brothers of low-income. We hope you and your family will find cause for reflection and inspiration for action as you share this intergenerational resource together. […]

Crossroads for Teacher Pay

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The gory details are right there, laid out in columns of cold hard data compiled by the National Education Association. Each year, the national teachers’ group provides a comprehensive, state-by-state look at the financing of public education, with a focus on funding for public schools. Not that it comes as much of a surprise, but North […]

Crossroads for Teacher Pay

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The gory details are right there, laid out in columns of cold hard data compiled by the National Education Association. Each year, the national teachers’ group provides a comprehensive, state-by-state look at the financing of public education, with a focus on funding for public schools. Not that it comes as much of a surprise, but North […]

Job Opening — Development Assistant

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches seeks a part-time Development Assistant to help grow our current outreach to donors including individuals, organizations, foundations, congregations, and other faith communities. With nearly eight decades of progressive activism, the Councils remains the leading faith-based ecumenical voice for social justice in North Carolina. As an organization, we are particularly concerned about people […]

Job Opening — Development Assistant

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches seeks a part-time Development Assistant to help grow our current outreach to donors including individuals, organizations, foundations, congregations, and other faith communities. With nearly eight decades of progressive activism, the Councils remains the leading faith-based ecumenical voice for social justice in North Carolina. As an organization, we are particularly concerned about people […]

Climate Activists Must Heed the Lessons of North Carolina

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Joe Wainio begins his wonderful article on TruthOut, Climate change activists should look to North Carolina for lessons on how to build a broad and diverse movement powerful enough to challenge the corrupt status quo on several fronts. Single-issue organizing won’t do. To make a difference in our current political climate takes massive numbers of […]

Climate Activists Must Heed the Lessons of North Carolina

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Joe Wainio begins his wonderful article on TruthOut, Climate change activists should look to North Carolina for lessons on how to build a broad and diverse movement powerful enough to challenge the corrupt status quo on several fronts. Single-issue organizing won’t do. To make a difference in our current political climate takes massive numbers of […]

Allowing Access to Church Facilities to Promote Physical Activity: Free Webinar

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Partners in Health and Wholeness recently teamed up with the NC Division of Public Health, Faithful Families and Voices into Action to assess what is currently happening around shared use agreements in faith communities across the state and to identify opportunities for growth. Please join us on Friday, March 28 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. […]

Allowing Access to Church Facilities to Promote Physical Activity: Free Webinar

by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Partners in Health and Wholeness recently teamed up with the NC Division of Public Health, Faithful Families and Voices into Action to assess what is currently happening around shared use agreements in faith communities across the state and to identify opportunities for growth. Please join us on Friday, March 28 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. […]

April Event Celebrates Legacy of Lex Mathews

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

The Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina is sponsoring a “Day of Diocesan Story-Telling and Celebration,” focusing on Lex Mathews’ time as Director of Christian Social Ministries from 1975 until 1985. Longtime activists with the NC Council of Churches will remember Lex’s many involvements with the Council. I’m proud to say that he and I were […]

April Event Celebrates Legacy of Lex Mathews

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

The Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina is sponsoring a “Day of Diocesan Story-Telling and Celebration,” focusing on Lex Mathews’ time as Director of Christian Social Ministries from 1975 until 1985. Longtime activists with the NC Council of Churches will remember Lex’s many involvements with the Council. I’m proud to say that he and I were […]

Soul Repair: Recovering from Moral injury after War — What Faith Communities Can Do

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

The North Carolina Soul Repair conference took place March 6 and 7. It was sponsored by many faith communities, including the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in North Carolina, Quaker House, and the North Carolina Council of Churches. Speakers included VA clinicians, chaplains and staff, and Rev. Dr. Rita Nakashima Brock, co-director of the Soul Repair Center, […]

Soul Repair: Recovering from Moral injury after War — What Faith Communities Can Do

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

The North Carolina Soul Repair conference took place March 6 and 7. It was sponsored by many faith communities, including the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in North Carolina, Quaker House, and the North Carolina Council of Churches. Speakers included VA clinicians, chaplains and staff, and Rev. Dr. Rita Nakashima Brock, co-director of the Soul Repair Center, […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Circle Maker, Chapter Two

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters.  Just look for the picture of the apple on the books and you will find past Book Club entries. Our current choice of reading […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Circle Maker, Chapter Two

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters.  Just look for the picture of the apple on the books and you will find past Book Club entries. Our current choice of reading […]

The Benefits of Breastfeeding

By Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

Recent, widely disseminated news reports claim that the benefits of breastfeeding have been drastically overstated. This is a startling assertion. It contradicts prolific and long-standing research that has formed the foundation for pro-breastfeeding policies and recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the Institutes of Medicine, the World Health Organization, UNICEF, the U.S. Department […]

The Benefits of Breastfeeding

by Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

Recent, widely disseminated news reports claim that the benefits of breastfeeding have been drastically overstated. This is a startling assertion. It contradicts prolific and long-standing research that has formed the foundation for pro-breastfeeding policies and recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the Institutes of Medicine, the World Health Organization, UNICEF, the U.S. Department […]

Second Sunday in Lent: Poverty & Farmworkers

By chris

I’ll never forget how it felt to serve dinner to this group. About 30 hungry, tired farmworkers arrived back at their camp just as it was getting dark, and they were kind enough to welcome us into their humble space for a shared meal. This group of mostly young men had been busy harvesting sweet potatoes down East. Most were indigenous Mexicans who learned Spanish as a second language, who didn’t know any English. As we spooned out rice and beans and poured soda from two-liter bottles, I was struck at how rare it is for any of us to meet the people who actually produce and harvest the food we eat. From our history of slavery to our modern industrial context, our society has not really reckoned with the grim reality of those at the bottom of our food chain.

Second Sunday in Lent: Poverty & Farmworkers

by chris

I’ll never forget how it felt to serve dinner to this group. About 30 hungry, tired farmworkers arrived back at their camp just as it was getting dark, and they were kind enough to welcome us into their humble space for a shared meal. This group of mostly young men had been busy harvesting sweet potatoes down East. Most were indigenous Mexicans who learned Spanish as a second language, who didn’t know any English.

As we spooned out rice and beans and poured soda from two-liter bottles, I was struck at how rare it is for any of us to meet the people who actually produce and harvest the food we eat. From our history of slavery to our modern industrial context, our society has not really reckoned with the grim reality of those at the bottom of our food chain.

Bread: Embodying Justice

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Shannon Axtell Martin, Regional Consultant, Partners in Health & Wholeness

There is nothing like the aroma of bread baking, and the incredibly comforting and satisfying taste of warm, fresh bread. From “give us this day our daily bread” to “I am the bread of heaven” to the feeding of the 5,000 to the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, this seemingly simple food is so theologically rich. It is used to represent Christ’s body, God’s provision of manna in the wilderness, and livelihood in general.

Bread: Embodying Justice

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Shannon Axtell Martin, Regional Consultant, Partners in Health & Wholeness

There is nothing like the aroma of bread baking, and the incredibly comforting and satisfying taste of warm, fresh bread. From “give us this day our daily bread” to “I am the bread of heaven” to the feeding of the 5,000 to the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, this seemingly simple food is so theologically rich. It is used to represent Christ’s body, God’s provision of manna in the wilderness, and livelihood in general.

Worship Resources on Restorative Justice

By chris

Date: 5th Sunday in Lent - Apr. 6, 2014
Topic: Restorative Justice
Focus Text: Psalm 130
If there were such a thing as a six o’clock news cast in the first century, Jesus the felon would appear walking down the street escorted by the police of his day—handcuffed—if you will. The announcer would tell us that the vandal who destroyed Temple property and repeatedly broke Jewish laws; the welfare king who relied on the generosity of unsuspecting middle class women to promote his suspicious doctrine; the man known to frequent the establishments of tax collectors and prostitutes—and claimed to be God, had finally been apprehended and was awaiting sentencing. Yes, in the minds of this first century felon’s accusers, he was little more than a common criminal.

Worship Resources on Restorative Justice

by chris

Date: 5th Sunday in Lent – Apr. 6, 2014
Topic: Restorative Justice
Focus Text: Psalm 130
If there were such a thing as a six o’clock news cast in the first century, Jesus the felon would appear walking down the street escorted by the police of his day—handcuffed—if you will. The announcer would tell us that the vandal who destroyed Temple property and repeatedly broke Jewish laws; the welfare king who relied on the generosity of unsuspecting middle class women to promote his suspicious doctrine; the man known to frequent the establishments of tax collectors and prostitutes—and claimed to be God, had finally been apprehended and was awaiting sentencing. Yes, in the minds of this first century felon’s accusers, he was little more than a common criminal.

Teacher Pay: Leaping, then Looking

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

He hasn’t put it quite this way, but what Gov. Pat McCrory seems to be saying – and who among us hasn’t offered the same excuse? – is that it sounded like a good idea at the time. Sure it did, for those who want to see our underpaid public school teachers forced to scrabble […]

Teacher Pay: Leaping, then Looking

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

He hasn’t put it quite this way, but what Gov. Pat McCrory seems to be saying – and who among us hasn’t offered the same excuse? – is that it sounded like a good idea at the time. Sure it did, for those who want to see our underpaid public school teachers forced to scrabble […]

First Sunday in Lent: Poverty & Health

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

In recognition of our faithful call and of this time in history, the Council’s annual Lenten guide focuses on poverty and the ways we can respond to our sisters and brothers of low-income. We hope you and your family will find cause for reflection and inspiration for action as you share this intergenerational resource together. […]

First Sunday in Lent: Poverty & Health

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

In recognition of our faithful call and of this time in history, the Council’s annual Lenten guide focuses on poverty and the ways we can respond to our sisters and brothers of low-income. We hope you and your family will find cause for reflection and inspiration for action as you share this intergenerational resource together. […]

Those Who Do Without – From Our Social Justice Study for Lent

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

In recognition of our faithful call and of this time in history, the Council’s annual Lenten guide focuses on poverty and the ways we can respond to our sisters and brothers of low-income. We hope you and your family will find cause for reflection and inspiration for action as you share this intergenerational resource together. […]

Those Who Do Without – From Our Social Justice Study for Lent

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

In recognition of our faithful call and of this time in history, the Council’s annual Lenten guide focuses on poverty and the ways we can respond to our sisters and brothers of low-income. We hope you and your family will find cause for reflection and inspiration for action as you share this intergenerational resource together. […]

Worship Resources on Awareness of Those with Disabilities

By chris

Date: 4th Sunday in Lent - March 30, 2014
Topic: Awareness of Those with Disabilities
Focus Text: John 9:1-41
Jesus’ concrete actions in response to the man’s situation call into question not only the self-righteous judgment of the religious leaders, but also the comfortable distance maintained by the disciples. When they encounter this man in the city, they see it as an opportunity for theological reflection. But Jesus changes the nature of the conversation altogether. The disciples want to speculate; Jesus decides to act – to welcome the man as a person and a child of God, to offer those unique gifts that he has been given to heal the man’s suffering, that the glory of God might be revealed.

Worship Resources on Awareness of Those with Disabilities

by chris

Date: 4th Sunday in Lent – March 30, 2014
Topic: Awareness of Those with Disabilities
Focus Text: John 9:1-41
Jesus’ concrete actions in response to the man’s situation call into question not only the self-righteous judgment of the religious leaders, but also the comfortable distance maintained by the disciples. When they encounter this man in the city, they see it as an opportunity for theological reflection. But Jesus changes the nature of the conversation altogether. The disciples want to speculate; Jesus decides to act – to welcome the man as a person and a child of God, to offer those unique gifts that he has been given to heal the man’s suffering, that the glory of God might be revealed.

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Circle Maker, Chapter One

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “The Circle Maker” by Mark Batterson. Just look for the picture of the apple on the books and […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Circle Maker, Chapter One

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “The Circle Maker” by Mark Batterson. Just look for the picture of the apple on the books and […]

PHW-Certified Congregation Receives Funding to Improve Access to Healthy Foods

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Love Fellowship Believers – a PHW Silver-Certified Congregation located in Greensboro and under the pastoral leadership of Rev. Kevin Webb – was awarded a Statewide Pioneering Healthier Communities Youth Advocacy grant to take on the issue of healthy food access in their local community. With rising childhood obesity rates in our state and country, a […]

PHW-Certified Congregation Receives Funding to Improve Access to Healthy Foods

by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Love Fellowship Believers – a PHW Silver-Certified Congregation located in Greensboro and under the pastoral leadership of Rev. Kevin Webb – was awarded a Statewide Pioneering Healthier Communities Youth Advocacy grant to take on the issue of healthy food access in their local community. With rising childhood obesity rates in our state and country, a […]

Faithful Activism — Part 2

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

In an earlier blog, I noted a congregation’s questions about becoming a partner with HKonJ. If you haven’t seen that blog, please click here. It contains information that will be relevant to what follows and addresses the question of whether such participation would threaten a non-profit’s tax status. In addition to the question about tax-exempt […]

Faithful Activism — Part 2

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

In an earlier blog, I noted a congregation’s questions about becoming a partner with HKonJ. If you haven’t seen that blog, please click here. It contains information that will be relevant to what follows and addresses the question of whether such participation would threaten a non-profit’s tax status. In addition to the question about tax-exempt […]

Last Call for Open Enrollment

By Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

“We’ve only got a few weeks left. March 31st, that’s the last call.” President Obama made this statement recently to a group of his supporters, and he’s referring to the approaching end of open enrollment for health insurance on the Marketplace. After March 31, individuals who remain uninsured will be charged a penalty unless they […]

Last Call for Open Enrollment

by Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

“We’ve only got a few weeks left. March 31st, that’s the last call.” President Obama made this statement recently to a group of his supporters, and he’s referring to the approaching end of open enrollment for health insurance on the Marketplace. After March 31, individuals who remain uninsured will be charged a penalty unless they […]

Presbyterian Clergy Sign Letter for the Public Good

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

A group of Presbyterian clergy have prepared and circulated A Pastoral Letter to their colleagues. It is a fine statement, noting that “[a]n enduring principle of our discipleship is the call to sacrifice for the sake of others, after the manner of Christ, and a commitment to the common good beyond our own personal interest.” […]

Presbyterian Clergy Sign Letter for the Public Good

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

A group of Presbyterian clergy have prepared and circulated A Pastoral Letter to their colleagues. It is a fine statement, noting that “[a]n enduring principle of our discipleship is the call to sacrifice for the sake of others, after the manner of Christ, and a commitment to the common good beyond our own personal interest.” […]