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Complicated Answers to Different Questions

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The offices for the NC Council of Churches sit half a block from Hillsborough Street—the street that automatically conjures up images of NC State, as well it should since the campus looms large along Hillsborough for about 10 blocks. These weeks, as the media have consistently reminded us, are the days of orientation and the […]

Complicated Answers to Different Questions

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The offices for the NC Council of Churches sit half a block from Hillsborough Street—the street that automatically conjures up images of NC State, as well it should since the campus looms large along Hillsborough for about 10 blocks. These weeks, as the media have consistently reminded us, are the days of orientation and the […]

Tale of Two Chambers Amid Budget Conflict

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina has two legislative bodies, the 120-member House of Representatives and the 50-member Senate. They’re set up to be equal in power, although it could be said that the larger House is designed to be more reflective of the public will. Senators typically have more room to operate. And operating in a smaller group, […]

Tale of Two Chambers Amid Budget Conflict

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina has two legislative bodies, the 120-member House of Representatives and the 50-member Senate. They’re set up to be equal in power, although it could be said that the larger House is designed to be more reflective of the public will. Senators typically have more room to operate. And operating in a smaller group, […]

Lessons Learned from the Millennial Leaders Program

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last month, I had the opportunity to be one of 50 young leaders from across the country to take part in the 2015 Millennial Leaders Program at Union Theological Seminary in New York​ City. The purpose of the conference is to gather together these millennial leaders to foster engagement around the intersection of their experiences​ of spirituality, […]

Lessons Learned from the Millennial Leaders Program

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last month, I had the opportunity to be one of 50 young leaders from across the country to take part in the 2015 Millennial Leaders Program at Union Theological Seminary in New York​ City. The purpose of the conference is to gather together these millennial leaders to foster engagement around the intersection of their experiences​ of spirituality, […]

Private School Vouchers, Lax Standards

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The principle of judicial restraint is a wonderful thing. It helps keep judges – as they go about their business of determining whether laws are constitutional – from horning in on the role of legislators, whose task is to make policy choices and then to enact laws reflecting those choices. Proper restraint makes judges’ rulings […]

Private School Vouchers, Lax Standards

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The principle of judicial restraint is a wonderful thing. It helps keep judges – as they go about their business of determining whether laws are constitutional – from horning in on the role of legislators, whose task is to make policy choices and then to enact laws reflecting those choices. Proper restraint makes judges’ rulings […]

A New Heaven

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

“Joy, can you still dance. Now that I just heard about the Charleston shooting, can you dance a prayer as well as dancing to demonstrate that we offer our whole bodies to God?” This was Nurya, the minister-in-residence during this week long food and faith intensive sponsored by the Wake Forest University Divinity School in […]

A New Heaven

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

“Joy, can you still dance. Now that I just heard about the Charleston shooting, can you dance a prayer as well as dancing to demonstrate that we offer our whole bodies to God?” This was Nurya, the minister-in-residence during this week long food and faith intensive sponsored by the Wake Forest University Divinity School in […]

The Leadership of Pope Francis

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern “[Pope] Francis almost makes me want to convert to Catholicism.” This is the sentiment generally expressed by many of my colleagues at Duke Divinity School. Many of us who are not Catholic find refreshing a Pope who is faithfully in touch with so many social justice concerns in […]

The Leadership of Pope Francis

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern “[Pope] Francis almost makes me want to convert to Catholicism.” This is the sentiment generally expressed by many of my colleagues at Duke Divinity School. Many of us who are not Catholic find refreshing a Pope who is faithfully in touch with so many social justice concerns in […]

Statement on the Supreme Court’s ACA Decision

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

The North Carolina Council of Churches celebrates today’s Supreme Court decision upholding the Affordable Care Act.  For decades, the Council has supported universal health care, and while the current version of Obamacare does not reach that ultimate goal, it has proved to be a crucial step forward. We are grateful to the justices of the […]

Statement on the Supreme Court’s ACA Decision

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

The North Carolina Council of Churches celebrates today’s Supreme Court decision upholding the Affordable Care Act.  For decades, the Council has supported universal health care, and while the current version of Obamacare does not reach that ultimate goal, it has proved to be a crucial step forward. We are grateful to the justices of the […]

Undocugraduation: Hope to Replace Fear

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern On my way to work one day last week, I listened to WUNC as I usually do. I heard a lot about the state legislature during my drive to Raleigh – about how the Senate budget will cut up to 8,500 teaching assistants jobs and the stories of […]

Undocugraduation: Hope to Replace Fear

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern On my way to work one day last week, I listened to WUNC as I usually do. I heard a lot about the state legislature during my drive to Raleigh – about how the Senate budget will cut up to 8,500 teaching assistants jobs and the stories of […]

Refugees Find Hope in Meeting With Each Other

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern Storytelling is a central piece of community organizing because through it you offer your listener a way into your life in an organized format: a challenge you faced, a choice you made, and an outcome. And so, one by one, the diverse collection of people surrounding me offered […]

Refugees Find Hope in Meeting With Each Other

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern Storytelling is a central piece of community organizing because through it you offer your listener a way into your life in an organized format: a challenge you faced, a choice you made, and an outcome. And so, one by one, the diverse collection of people surrounding me offered […]

Project NO REST Needs Your Input to Help Victims of Sex Trafficking

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

At the North Carolina Council of Churches, our work is often guided by Isaiah 1:17, which advises,​“Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.” In my work I often focus on calling people to see the sacred worth in strangers and immigrants and farmworkers in their […]

Project NO REST Needs Your Input to Help Victims of Sex Trafficking

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

At the North Carolina Council of Churches, our work is often guided by Isaiah 1:17, which advises,​“Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.” In my work I often focus on calling people to see the sacred worth in strangers and immigrants and farmworkers in their […]

This Millennial’s Response to the Pew Research Center Study

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

I am a millennial. I was also born and raised in the church and have continued to participate in church my entire life. I am soon to be married in the church, and if my partner and I have children, I plan to raise them in the church. I also went to seminary and currently […]

This Millennial’s Response to the Pew Research Center Study

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

I am a millennial. I was also born and raised in the church and have continued to participate in church my entire life. I am soon to be married in the church, and if my partner and I have children, I plan to raise them in the church. I also went to seminary and currently […]

Justice Advocates Convene for the Cause

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The Council of Churches’ Legislative Seminar – its top-profile public event of the year – is meant to inform, and it’s meant to inspire. We’re not too bashful to say that this year’s version, held on April 14 at Greenwood Forest Baptist Church in Cary, succeeded on both counts. With the General Assembly moving into […]

Justice Advocates Convene for the Cause

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The Council of Churches’ Legislative Seminar – its top-profile public event of the year – is meant to inform, and it’s meant to inspire. We’re not too bashful to say that this year’s version, held on April 14 at Greenwood Forest Baptist Church in Cary, succeeded on both counts. With the General Assembly moving into […]

Universities Take a Hit with Loss of Ross

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Photo by Dan Sears, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill The University of North Carolina system’s Board of Governors, in telling system President Tom Ross in January that he could serve one more year but no more, offered no specific reason other than, well, it was time to start planning for a change. By […]

Universities Take a Hit with Loss of Ross

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Photo by Dan Sears, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill The University of North Carolina system’s Board of Governors, in telling system President Tom Ross in January that he could serve one more year but no more, offered no specific reason other than, well, it was time to start planning for a change. By […]

Council Puts Hot Topics on the Table

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The mission of the NC Council of Churches extends into many areas that highlight the links between faith and public policies. And of the various events and activities sponsored by the Council, none is more closely focused on those links than the Legislative Seminar – giving it a special prominence on the Council calendar. No, […]

Council Puts Hot Topics on the Table

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The mission of the NC Council of Churches extends into many areas that highlight the links between faith and public policies. And of the various events and activities sponsored by the Council, none is more closely focused on those links than the Legislative Seminar – giving it a special prominence on the Council calendar. No, […]

Advocate for Family-Sustaining Living Wages and the Right to Organize

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

According to Interfaith Worker Justice (IWJ), “four million fast food workers across the country are struggling to make ends meet. Many workers are standing up for $15 per hour and the right to form a union without retaliation.” Other low-wage workers, such as home health care workers, are now joining this struggle. After enduring bad […]

Advocate for Family-Sustaining Living Wages and the Right to Organize

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

According to Interfaith Worker Justice (IWJ), “four million fast food workers across the country are struggling to make ends meet. Many workers are standing up for $15 per hour and the right to form a union without retaliation.” Other low-wage workers, such as home health care workers, are now joining this struggle. After enduring bad […]

Register for 2015 Legislative Seminar — Updated with Workshops and Presenters

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Join us on April 14 at Greenwood Forest Baptist Church in Cary for the Council’s 2015 Legislative Seminar. Held every two years, the Seminar equips people of faith with the information they need to be advocates on issues before the NC General Assembly. Registration with workshop options is below. Please scroll through the registration section […]

Register for 2015 Legislative Seminar — Updated with Workshops and Presenters

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Join us on April 14 at Greenwood Forest Baptist Church in Cary for the Council’s 2015 Legislative Seminar. Held every two years, the Seminar equips people of faith with the information they need to be advocates on issues before the NC General Assembly. Registration with workshop options is below. Please scroll through the registration section […]

Doomed UNC Centers Sang the Wrong Songs

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

It’s easy to imagine what the conservative Republicans who rule North Carolina’s legislative roost were thinking: “Here we’ve gone to all the trouble to take control of the General Assembly. We appoint the University of North Carolina system’s Board of Governors. We set the system’s budget. “So why should we have to put up with […]

Doomed UNC Centers Sang the Wrong Songs

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

It’s easy to imagine what the conservative Republicans who rule North Carolina’s legislative roost were thinking: “Here we’ve gone to all the trouble to take control of the General Assembly. We appoint the University of North Carolina system’s Board of Governors. We set the system’s budget. “So why should we have to put up with […]

NC Alliance for Health Releases New Poll

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

The NC Alliance for Health recently released poll results that show 70% of North Carolina voters are in support of funding a Healthy Corner Store Initiative to improve access to healthy food.  The NC Alliance for Health, “is an independent, statewide coalition advocating for policies that promote wellness and reduce the impact of obesity and tobacco.”  Below are some […]

NC Alliance for Health Releases New Poll

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

The NC Alliance for Health recently released poll results that show 70% of North Carolina voters are in support of funding a Healthy Corner Store Initiative to improve access to healthy food.  The NC Alliance for Health, “is an independent, statewide coalition advocating for policies that promote wellness and reduce the impact of obesity and tobacco.”  Below are some […]

Snow Days?

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

This week has been full of weather disruptions.  From school cancellations, missed Ash Wednesday services, to business closings, this has been a week of changed plans.  So, here are a few ideas to help you get through any upcoming snow days and the continuing winter weather. Healthy snack alternatives You may crave hot chocolate when […]

Snow Days?

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

This week has been full of weather disruptions.  From school cancellations, missed Ash Wednesday services, to business closings, this has been a week of changed plans.  So, here are a few ideas to help you get through any upcoming snow days and the continuing winter weather. Healthy snack alternatives You may crave hot chocolate when […]

Grading the Schools: The Poverty Link

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The scheme ordered up by the conservatives who hold power in the NC General Assembly to assign a single letter grade to each of the state’s public schools – ostensibly as a quality signal so simple that even a caveman could get it – has proved, well, unhelpful. Given the way the grades were figured, […]

Grading the Schools: The Poverty Link

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The scheme ordered up by the conservatives who hold power in the NC General Assembly to assign a single letter grade to each of the state’s public schools – ostensibly as a quality signal so simple that even a caveman could get it – has proved, well, unhelpful. Given the way the grades were figured, […]

Register Now for 2015 Faith and Immigration Summit

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

This year’s summit will focus on issues affecting children and youth coming to our state from Central America. Rev. Julio Ramirez-Eve will preach during opening worship and music will be a Latino praise band. This event promises to accomplish four main goals: • Offer a unique statewide, ecumenical gathering for faith leaders who work primarily […]

Register Now for 2015 Faith and Immigration Summit

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

This year’s summit will focus on issues affecting children and youth coming to our state from Central America. Rev. Julio Ramirez-Eve will preach during opening worship and music will be a Latino praise band. This event promises to accomplish four main goals: • Offer a unique statewide, ecumenical gathering for faith leaders who work primarily […]

What Frightens Civitas?

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Apparently I scare Civitas. Maybe it’s my upbringing. I was raised by a single mom (my parents divorced when I was a toddler) who was fortunate to have a solid job with the federal government and a supportive family who were the safety net between us and poverty. We were lucky. Maybe it was my […]

What Frightens Civitas?

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Apparently I scare Civitas. Maybe it’s my upbringing. I was raised by a single mom (my parents divorced when I was a toddler) who was fortunate to have a solid job with the federal government and a supportive family who were the safety net between us and poverty. We were lucky. Maybe it was my […]

Welcome EdNC to the Conversation

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Education has been of central importance to the NC Council of Churches throughout our history. Part of our opposition to segregation was support for a fully integrated public school system. When it seemed that too many voices of faith were bashing public schools, the Council’s Public Education Committee was created to provide an alternate voice. […]

Welcome EdNC to the Conversation

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Education has been of central importance to the NC Council of Churches throughout our history. Part of our opposition to segregation was support for a fully integrated public school system. When it seemed that too many voices of faith were bashing public schools, the Council’s Public Education Committee was created to provide an alternate voice. […]

So Long, 2014: It Wasn’t all Pretty!

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Of the many decisions and activities that unfold in the arena of public affairs, the ones that tend to show up on the NC Council of Churches’ radar are those affecting the quality of social justice in our state. The Council stands for policies and their associated programs that offer support, relief and prospects for […]

So Long, 2014: It Wasn’t all Pretty!

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Of the many decisions and activities that unfold in the arena of public affairs, the ones that tend to show up on the NC Council of Churches’ radar are those affecting the quality of social justice in our state. The Council stands for policies and their associated programs that offer support, relief and prospects for […]

Christmas: The Story of a Refugee Child Named Jesus

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last week, the largest detention center in the United States opened. The 50-acre center, located in Dilley, TX, will hold up to 2,400 migrants who have crossed the border illegally and is especially designed to hold women and children. This week, Christians around the world are engaged in the retelling of the story of Jesus’ […]

Christmas: The Story of a Refugee Child Named Jesus

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last week, the largest detention center in the United States opened. The 50-acre center, located in Dilley, TX, will hold up to 2,400 migrants who have crossed the border illegally and is especially designed to hold women and children. This week, Christians around the world are engaged in the retelling of the story of Jesus’ […]

When a Child is Loved

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

I had a chance to talk with Mahan Siler at last week’s Road Show in Asheville. Mahan, who has retired to the Asheville area, was my family’s pastor at Pullen Memorial Baptist Church in Raleigh, one of the Council’s member congregations, in the 1990s. Mahan is one of a very small group of faith leaders […]

When a Child is Loved

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

I had a chance to talk with Mahan Siler at last week’s Road Show in Asheville. Mahan, who has retired to the Asheville area, was my family’s pastor at Pullen Memorial Baptist Church in Raleigh, one of the Council’s member congregations, in the 1990s. Mahan is one of a very small group of faith leaders […]

2014 Advent Guide

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council’s 2014 Advent Devotional Guide is now available as a free download. Each year, Council staff take a social justice theme as a focus for these guides to be used during the season of Advent or Lent. For this Advent season, that focus is the care and well-being of children. As we say in the introduction: As […]

2014 Advent Guide

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council’s 2014 Advent Devotional Guide is now available as a free download. Each year, Council staff take a social justice theme as a focus for these guides to be used during the season of Advent or Lent. For this Advent season, that focus is the care and well-being of children. As we say in the introduction: As […]

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

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Yesterday, President Obama took a courageous and controversial step toward reforming our country’s immigration system. He announced his plan to allow millions of undocumented immigrants to apply to stay in this country without the fear of deportation. One significant change allows for an expansion of the Deferred Action for Early Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program to include […]

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

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Yesterday, President Obama took a courageous and controversial step toward reforming our country’s immigration system. He announced his plan to allow millions of undocumented immigrants to apply to stay in this country without the fear of deportation. One significant change allows for an expansion of the Deferred Action for Early Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program to include […]

Expand Medicaid? Now’s the time

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The decision last year by the conservatives who control North Carolina’s state government not to expand the state’s Medicaid program has left an estimated half-million residents out in the cold when it comes to health insurance – that’s the number cited by the N.C. Institute of Medicine. These folks typically are among the state’s working […]

Expand Medicaid? Now’s the time

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The decision last year by the conservatives who control North Carolina’s state government not to expand the state’s Medicaid program has left an estimated half-million residents out in the cold when it comes to health insurance – that’s the number cited by the N.C. Institute of Medicine. These folks typically are among the state’s working […]

Lifting Up the Mexican Children and Students

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

As I have been traveling across the state educating clergy about immigrants in their communities and facilitating discussion through the Clergy Breakfast tour, I have heard from some amazing people: health workers, school outreach workers, community organizers, pastors and attorneys. This past week at the Clergy Breakfast in Black Mountain I was blessed to hear […]

Lifting Up the Mexican Children and Students

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

As I have been traveling across the state educating clergy about immigrants in their communities and facilitating discussion through the Clergy Breakfast tour, I have heard from some amazing people: health workers, school outreach workers, community organizers, pastors and attorneys. This past week at the Clergy Breakfast in Black Mountain I was blessed to hear […]

Council Post-Election Road Shows to Charlotte and Asheville

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

What do Tuesday’s elections mean for North Carolina? How can people of faith in the state continue to affect positive change? Join the staff of the North Carolina Council of Churches as we visit Charlotte and Asheville to discuss ways our programs are providing a progressive, faithful voice for issues facing NC residents and how […]

Council Post-Election Road Shows to Charlotte and Asheville

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

What do Tuesday’s elections mean for North Carolina? How can people of faith in the state continue to affect positive change? Join the staff of the North Carolina Council of Churches as we visit Charlotte and Asheville to discuss ways our programs are providing a progressive, faithful voice for issues facing NC residents and how […]

Petition to Expand Medicaid in NC — Signers Welcome

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Health Care for All NC is continuing the important work for Medicaid expansion in North Carolina. The group is hoping concerned residents will add their names to a petition calling on the Governor and members of the General Assembly to immediately accept federal funds for the expansion. As the petition reads in part: By refusing to […]

Petition to Expand Medicaid in NC — Signers Welcome

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Health Care for All NC is continuing the important work for Medicaid expansion in North Carolina. The group is hoping concerned residents will add their names to a petition calling on the Governor and members of the General Assembly to immediately accept federal funds for the expansion. As the petition reads in part: By refusing to […]

2014 Faith & Health Summit: Registration Deadline Extended

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

The deadline to register for the 2014 Faith and Health Summit has been extended until this Friday, October 3. More than 200 people have already reserved their space at this important event, but there’s still room for you! Click here to take advantage of this special opportunity. The Summit will take place on Friday, October […]

2014 Faith & Health Summit: Registration Deadline Extended

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

The deadline to register for the 2014 Faith and Health Summit has been extended until this Friday, October 3. More than 200 people have already reserved their space at this important event, but there’s still room for you! Click here to take advantage of this special opportunity. The Summit will take place on Friday, October […]

Breastfeeding Collaborative Awards First Mini-Grant

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

Congratulations to Doorkeeper International Ministries, of Raleigh for being recognized as a breastfeeding-friendly congregation by the Partners in Health and Wholeness Breastfeeding Collaborative. They were also presented with a $5000 mini-grant, the first to be awarded by the Collaborative. Congregations in the Breastfeeding Collaborative are recognized for signing on to the breastfeeding-friendly congregations statement, distributing written materials […]

Breastfeeding Collaborative Awards First Mini-Grant

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

Congratulations to Doorkeeper International Ministries, of Raleigh for being recognized as a breastfeeding-friendly congregation by the Partners in Health and Wholeness Breastfeeding Collaborative. They were also presented with a $5000 mini-grant, the first to be awarded by the Collaborative. Congregations in the Breastfeeding Collaborative are recognized for signing on to the breastfeeding-friendly congregations statement, distributing written materials […]

Educating the Littlest and the Least

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Recently, several counties in North Carolina have begun passing resolutions discouraging undocumented children, including unaccompanied minors, from attending schools in these counties. These children, who often have no family in the United States and do not speak English, are the most vulnerable and the “least of these.” These counties are making it clear that unaccompanied […]

Educating the Littlest and the Least

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Recently, several counties in North Carolina have begun passing resolutions discouraging undocumented children, including unaccompanied minors, from attending schools in these counties. These children, who often have no family in the United States and do not speak English, are the most vulnerable and the “least of these.” These counties are making it clear that unaccompanied […]

PHW Success Story – Paradise Outreach Ministry, Greenville

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

We at Paradise Outreach Ministry are making great strides in involving our congregation in healthy initiatives. It is a pleasure to announce that we just completed our 2nd Annual CPR and First Aid Training Class! As a member of the Health Ministry, we are in the process of organizing a walk-a-thon to improve health awareness […]

PHW Success Story – Paradise Outreach Ministry, Greenville

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

We at Paradise Outreach Ministry are making great strides in involving our congregation in healthy initiatives. It is a pleasure to announce that we just completed our 2nd Annual CPR and First Aid Training Class! As a member of the Health Ministry, we are in the process of organizing a walk-a-thon to improve health awareness […]

2014 Faith & Health Summit: Calling All Volunteers

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

The NC Council of Churches’ 2014 Faith and Health Summit is now less than a month away, and we are delighted to have people of faith, public health professionals, faith and health experts, and other community members from all across the state joining us. The event will be held on Friday, October 10 at Ardmore […]

2014 Faith & Health Summit: Calling All Volunteers

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

The NC Council of Churches’ 2014 Faith and Health Summit is now less than a month away, and we are delighted to have people of faith, public health professionals, faith and health experts, and other community members from all across the state joining us. The event will be held on Friday, October 10 at Ardmore […]

Peace In Music

By Ashley Yohman, Program Associate for Finance and Development

As a teenage girl, pop culture, especially music, is seemingly everything. As a teenage girl growing up in the Presbyterian Church, David LaMotte was the epitome of cool. I was introduced to his music while attending Montreat Youth Conference in the mountains of North Carolina and I was lucky enough to see him perform three times before […]

Peace In Music

by Ashley Yohman, Program Associate for Finance and Development

As a teenage girl, pop culture, especially music, is seemingly everything. As a teenage girl growing up in the Presbyterian Church, David LaMotte was the epitome of cool. I was introduced to his music while attending Montreat Youth Conference in the mountains of North Carolina and I was lucky enough to see him perform three times before […]

PHW Honors Helen Livingston

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Meet one of our community leaders, Helen Livingston, of Scotland County. I first met Helen through the phone when I started with PHW, and almost instantly we were kindred spirits. She was the reason PHW had our first webinar, and she continues to be a strong asset for the Central South-East Region where I work. She was […]

PHW Honors Helen Livingston

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Meet one of our community leaders, Helen Livingston, of Scotland County. I first met Helen through the phone when I started with PHW, and almost instantly we were kindred spirits. She was the reason PHW had our first webinar, and she continues to be a strong asset for the Central South-East Region where I work. She was […]

Cary Congregation with Liberian ties Collects Medical Supplies

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

We have all been touched by news of the growing Ebola crisis in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Nigeria, a crisis that so far has resisted efforts at containment. Those of us with even brief personal ties to West Africa (I spent a couple of weeks in Togo and Burkina Faso in 1974) will never […]

Cary Congregation with Liberian ties Collects Medical Supplies

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

We have all been touched by news of the growing Ebola crisis in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Nigeria, a crisis that so far has resisted efforts at containment. Those of us with even brief personal ties to West Africa (I spent a couple of weeks in Togo and Burkina Faso in 1974) will never […]

Finding Amazement With Teens and Worms

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Partners in Health and Wholeness continues to amaze me. I had a chance to visit Laurinburg Presbyterian Church where PHW is incorporating their program for healthier lifestyles. Of course this is with the help of some congregation members and local teenagers in the community who seemed very excited to be a part of the health […]

Finding Amazement With Teens and Worms

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Partners in Health and Wholeness continues to amaze me. I had a chance to visit Laurinburg Presbyterian Church where PHW is incorporating their program for healthier lifestyles. Of course this is with the help of some congregation members and local teenagers in the community who seemed very excited to be a part of the health […]

True Imaging Demonstration with PHW

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Wednesday, August 12, 1-2 p.m. Partnership for Children Building 404 North Main Street, #A, Troy One of our stellar volunteers for Montgomery County is hosting a curriculum demonstration two weeks from today. Cindy Taylor, native to Troy, has fought to keep health at the center of her worship in Randolph County. She has become a […]

True Imaging Demonstration with PHW

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Wednesday, August 12, 1-2 p.m. Partnership for Children Building 404 North Main Street, #A, Troy One of our stellar volunteers for Montgomery County is hosting a curriculum demonstration two weeks from today. Cindy Taylor, native to Troy, has fought to keep health at the center of her worship in Randolph County. She has become a […]

2014 PHW Youth Conference

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

The Lord raised up Laquanda Bowden of Empowering Word Ministries and her church crew to organize an incredible 2014 Youth Conference. Yes, Partners in Health and Wholeness co-hosted this event, and I don’t want to downplay the role that Willona Stallings played or our summer intern, Johnny Rogers, without whom the PHW side could not […]

2014 PHW Youth Conference

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

The Lord raised up Laquanda Bowden of Empowering Word Ministries and her church crew to organize an incredible 2014 Youth Conference. Yes, Partners in Health and Wholeness co-hosted this event, and I don’t want to downplay the role that Willona Stallings played or our summer intern, Johnny Rogers, without whom the PHW side could not […]

World Breastfeeding Week, August 1–7

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

Local North Carolina organizations are joining the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in celebrating World Breastfeeding Week, August 1-7. According to the WHO website, “World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated every year in more than 170 countries to encourage breastfeeding and improve the health of babies around the world. It […]

World Breastfeeding Week, August 1–7

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

Local North Carolina organizations are joining the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in celebrating World Breastfeeding Week, August 1-7. According to the WHO website, “World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated every year in more than 170 countries to encourage breastfeeding and improve the health of babies around the world. It […]

What Would Radical Hospitality at the Border Look Like?

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

This past week I have been focusing on the crisis of the thousands of refugee children at the border who are being held in detention centers. I have blogged about praying for these children and sending them letters, and distributed an e-bulletin about ways your congregation can support them. All of these suggestions are centered around showing […]

What Would Radical Hospitality at the Border Look Like?

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

This past week I have been focusing on the crisis of the thousands of refugee children at the border who are being held in detention centers. I have blogged about praying for these children and sending them letters, and distributed an e-bulletin about ways your congregation can support them. All of these suggestions are centered around showing […]

Another Spirit-filled Weekend with Partners in Health and Wholeness

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Partners in Health and Wholeness co-hosted a youth conference on Saturday, July 12, with Empowering Word Ministries in Wadesboro.  I was honored to be able to participate as a PHW intern. Empowering Word Ministries Church held a spirit filled-praise and worship service with groups from the community and surrounding counties on Friday night, which I attended. […]

Another Spirit-filled Weekend with Partners in Health and Wholeness

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Partners in Health and Wholeness co-hosted a youth conference on Saturday, July 12, with Empowering Word Ministries in Wadesboro.  I was honored to be able to participate as a PHW intern. Empowering Word Ministries Church held a spirit filled-praise and worship service with groups from the community and surrounding counties on Friday night, which I attended. […]

Capital Clash over Education, Health

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina legislators faced with vexing conflicts over a new state budget spent a solid week pawing and snorting at each other without a lot of movement on the main sticking points. Another case of partisan gridlock? Well, one could say so – except this is a standoff between members of the same party. The […]

Capital Clash over Education, Health

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina legislators faced with vexing conflicts over a new state budget spent a solid week pawing and snorting at each other without a lot of movement on the main sticking points. Another case of partisan gridlock? Well, one could say so – except this is a standoff between members of the same party. The […]

Twists, Turns on Teacher Pay

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

If this year’s session of the N.C. General Assembly were a work of drama for stage or screen, the plot would be coming to a head. And we in the audience would be perched on the edge of our seats as the actors resolved the mystery: Will the state’s public school teachers get a raise, […]

Twists, Turns on Teacher Pay

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

If this year’s session of the N.C. General Assembly were a work of drama for stage or screen, the plot would be coming to a head. And we in the audience would be perched on the edge of our seats as the actors resolved the mystery: Will the state’s public school teachers get a raise, […]

2014 PHW Youth Conference is July 12

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I hope that you have saved the date for the 2014 Youth Conference in Wadesboro. Partners in Health and Wholeness is joining Empowering Word Ministries to create a spectacular day filled with spiritual growth and health education. Last year, more than 200 participants attended, drawn from multiple counties and including a group from Pennsylvania. This year, we hope to […]

2014 PHW Youth Conference is July 12

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I hope that you have saved the date for the 2014 Youth Conference in Wadesboro. Partners in Health and Wholeness is joining Empowering Word Ministries to create a spectacular day filled with spiritual growth and health education. Last year, more than 200 participants attended, drawn from multiple counties and including a group from Pennsylvania. This year, we hope to […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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. […]

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 […]

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 […]

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. […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

A Chance to Enjoy God’s Creation

By Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

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, Director of Strategic Engagement

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 […]

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, […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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. […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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.” […]

Photos from HKonJ 2014

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council helped organize a Service of Repentance and Consecration in front of the General Assembly Building prior to the Moral March and HKonJ People’s Assembly held earlier this month in Raleigh. The photos above were taken throughout the day as Council friends, volunteers and staff came together with people from throughout North Carolina and the nation.

Photos from HKonJ 2014

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council helped organize a Service of Repentance and Consecration in front of the General Assembly Building prior to the Moral March and HKonJ People’s Assembly held earlier this month in Raleigh. The photos above were taken throughout the day as Council friends, volunteers and staff came together with people from throughout North Carolina and the nation.

2014 PHW Certification & Mini-Grants: We’re Now Accepting Applications!

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

New activities and requirements for the 2014 Partners in Health and Wholeness Certification Program are now posted on our website! We hope that you will join this statewide movement to improve the health of people of faith through increased physical activity, healthy eating and tobacco use prevention and cessation. PHW-certified congregations are taking charge of […]

2014 PHW Certification & Mini-Grants: We’re Now Accepting Applications!

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

New activities and requirements for the 2014 Partners in Health and Wholeness Certification Program are now posted on our website! We hope that you will join this statewide movement to improve the health of people of faith through increased physical activity, healthy eating and tobacco use prevention and cessation. PHW-certified congregations are taking charge of […]

The Stakes with Teachers’ Pay

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Whether anecdotal or empirical, the evidence is clear: North Carolina has done a poor job of furnishing its public school teachers with adequate salaries. By “adequate,” we should mean pay that’s good enough to attract competent, motivated people into the teaching profession, to convince them to work in our school districts – even districts in […]

The Stakes with Teachers’ Pay

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Whether anecdotal or empirical, the evidence is clear: North Carolina has done a poor job of furnishing its public school teachers with adequate salaries. By “adequate,” we should mean pay that’s good enough to attract competent, motivated people into the teaching profession, to convince them to work in our school districts – even districts in […]

HKonJ 2014 — Moral March and People’s Assembly

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A cross-section of North Carolinians and progressives from other states flooded downtown Raleigh on Saturday as part of HKonJ 2014. Longtime activists from across the state walked with college students, parents pushed young children in strollers, old friends renewed acquaintances, and new relationships were forged. The day began with an interfaith Service of Repentance and Consecration, organized […]

HKonJ 2014 — Moral March and People’s Assembly

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A cross-section of North Carolinians and progressives from other states flooded downtown Raleigh on Saturday as part of HKonJ 2014. Longtime activists from across the state walked with college students, parents pushed young children in strollers, old friends renewed acquaintances, and new relationships were forged. The day began with an interfaith Service of Repentance and Consecration, organized […]

Pray with Us on Friday, March with Us on Saturday

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Join the NC NAACP, the North Carolina Council of Churches, and coalition partners for this weekend’s Moral March on Raleigh and HKonJ People’s Assembly. Events include: A Mass Meeting and Worship Service Friday, February 7, 7 p.m. Abundant Life Christian Center 4400 Old Poole Road, Raleigh Keynote speaker is Bishop W. Darin Moore, Presiding Prelate […]

Pray with Us on Friday, March with Us on Saturday

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Join the NC NAACP, the North Carolina Council of Churches, and coalition partners for this weekend’s Moral March on Raleigh and HKonJ People’s Assembly. Events include: A Mass Meeting and Worship Service Friday, February 7, 7 p.m. Abundant Life Christian Center 4400 Old Poole Road, Raleigh Keynote speaker is Bishop W. Darin Moore, Presiding Prelate […]

Pope Supports Breastfeeding in Public

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

Breastfeeding mothers everywhere have another reason to smile. On two separate occasions, one at the General Audience in December and another during a Baptism last week at the Cistene Chapel, Pope Frances encouraged mothers to go ahead and feed their babies, even though they were out in public  — and in the presence of the Pope! […]

Pope Supports Breastfeeding in Public

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

Breastfeeding mothers everywhere have another reason to smile. On two separate occasions, one at the General Audience in December and another during a Baptism last week at the Cistene Chapel, Pope Frances encouraged mothers to go ahead and feed their babies, even though they were out in public  — and in the presence of the Pope! […]

One State, One Rate: In-State Tuition for Young Immigrants

By chris

Education is one of the critical issues of our time. How we as a society choose to invest in our young people has dramatic implications for our future. Today, thousands of immigrant youth stand at the intersection of our broken immigration policies and our educational system, hoping for and working toward a better future. Undocumented […]

One State, One Rate: In-State Tuition for Young Immigrants

by chris

Education is one of the critical issues of our time. How we as a society choose to invest in our young people has dramatic implications for our future. Today, thousands of immigrant youth stand at the intersection of our broken immigration policies and our educational system, hoping for and working toward a better future. Undocumented […]

PHW Receives Outstanding Community Service Award

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

PHW received an Outstanding Community Service Award from Peletah Ministries in New Bern, under the leadership of Pastors Anthony and Dawn Baldwin Gibson, on Saturday, January 11.  Peletah Ministries, a small congregation of about 50 people, is making a real difference in their local community and surrounding areas. But instead of shining the spotlight on […]

PHW Receives Outstanding Community Service Award

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

PHW received an Outstanding Community Service Award from Peletah Ministries in New Bern, under the leadership of Pastors Anthony and Dawn Baldwin Gibson, on Saturday, January 11.  Peletah Ministries, a small congregation of about 50 people, is making a real difference in their local community and surrounding areas. But instead of shining the spotlight on […]

HKonJ 2014 — Saturday, February 8

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

It’s now just four weeks until this year’s HKonJ People’s Assembly. There is nothing more important for people of faith to do this winter as we work for prophetic social justice than to attend HKonJ and encourage  others to join us. Participants will assemble at Shaw University at 9:30 a.m. with the march set to begin at […]

HKonJ 2014 — Saturday, February 8

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

It’s now just four weeks until this year’s HKonJ People’s Assembly. There is nothing more important for people of faith to do this winter as we work for prophetic social justice than to attend HKonJ and encourage  others to join us. Participants will assemble at Shaw University at 9:30 a.m. with the march set to begin at […]

Worship Resources on the Beatitudes

By chris

Date: Epiphany 4 - Feb. 2, 2014
Topic: The Beatitudes
Focus Text: Matthew 5:1-12
The Beatitudes reflect the eschatological – or ultimate – nature of Jesus’ mission and proclaim the effects of the establishment of God’s rule. They list eschatological reversals for the unfortunate and eschatological rewards for the virtuous. It would be a mistake, however, to see the beatitudes as having only future significance. In fact, the first (5:3) and last (5:10) of the sayings are in the present tense. By bookending these future promises with the present tense, Matthew emphasizes the imminence of the Kingdom.

Worship Resources on the Beatitudes

by chris

Date: Epiphany 4 – Feb. 2, 2014
Topic: The Beatitudes
Focus Text: Matthew 5:1-12
The Beatitudes reflect the eschatological – or ultimate – nature of Jesus’ mission and proclaim the effects of the establishment of God’s rule. They list eschatological reversals for the unfortunate and eschatological rewards for the virtuous. It would be a mistake, however, to see the beatitudes as having only future significance. In fact, the first (5:3) and last (5:10) of the sayings are in the present tense. By bookending these future promises with the present tense, Matthew emphasizes the imminence of the Kingdom.

PHW Success Story – Tabernacle of Deliverance, Rocky Mount

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

Tabernacle of Deliverance is a non-denominational church located in a low socioeconomic community that strives to promote health and wellness along with spiritual guidance to those residing in the community. Programs targeted at at-risk youth are encouraged and implemented, including education on gang violence, teen pregnancy, substance abuse (drugs, alcohol and tobacco), and health and […]

PHW Success Story – Tabernacle of Deliverance, Rocky Mount

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

Tabernacle of Deliverance is a non-denominational church located in a low socioeconomic community that strives to promote health and wellness along with spiritual guidance to those residing in the community. Programs targeted at at-risk youth are encouraged and implemented, including education on gang violence, teen pregnancy, substance abuse (drugs, alcohol and tobacco), and health and […]

A Year of Setbacks, Pushbacks

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

At the close of a momentous year for politics and public policy in North Carolina – a year that challenged many people of faith to act on their beliefs — we again might find ourselves wondering whether things have to get worse before they can get better. That “things” got worse for many of the […]

A Year of Setbacks, Pushbacks

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

At the close of a momentous year for politics and public policy in North Carolina – a year that challenged many people of faith to act on their beliefs — we again might find ourselves wondering whether things have to get worse before they can get better. That “things” got worse for many of the […]

Experts Discuss Junk Food Advertising Focused on Children

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

The holiday season, unfortunately, has become one of the more appropriate times of the year to talk about advertising. From Black Friday through day after Christmas shopping, there are ads all around us. However, it is not just around the holidays that food companies are doing targeted marketing, often to children and communities who already suffer disproportionately […]

Experts Discuss Junk Food Advertising Focused on Children

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

The holiday season, unfortunately, has become one of the more appropriate times of the year to talk about advertising. From Black Friday through day after Christmas shopping, there are ads all around us. However, it is not just around the holidays that food companies are doing targeted marketing, often to children and communities who already suffer disproportionately […]

PHW Launches New Breastfeeding Program, Welcomes New Staff

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

PHW was recently awarded a two-year implementation grant from the John Rex Endowment to promote breastfeeding in low-resource congregations in Wake County. Marnie Cooper Priest, a native of Maine and a Certified Professional Midwife, will oversee this work. Marnie earned a Masters in Global Health from Duke University, successfully managed a midwifery practice for over […]

PHW Launches New Breastfeeding Program, Welcomes New Staff

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

PHW was recently awarded a two-year implementation grant from the John Rex Endowment to promote breastfeeding in low-resource congregations in Wake County. Marnie Cooper Priest, a native of Maine and a Certified Professional Midwife, will oversee this work. Marnie earned a Masters in Global Health from Duke University, successfully managed a midwifery practice for over […]

Church Youth Groups Invited to Apply for Funding to Create Healthier Communities

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness is teaming up with the NC Alliance of YMCAs to identify organizations, like churches, with active youth groups who seek to improve the health of their local community. This opportunity, called the Statewide Pioneering Healthier Communities Teen Advocacy Mini-Grants program, supports the YMCA’s mission to strengthen communities through youth development, […]

Church Youth Groups Invited to Apply for Funding to Create Healthier Communities

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness is teaming up with the NC Alliance of YMCAs to identify organizations, like churches, with active youth groups who seek to improve the health of their local community. This opportunity, called the Statewide Pioneering Healthier Communities Teen Advocacy Mini-Grants program, supports the YMCA’s mission to strengthen communities through youth development, […]

Sequestration Cuts 300,000 Families from Energy Assistance

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

What does the Lord require of you? Christians are very familiar with the Micah 6:8 verse where we are required to “to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God.” One has to wonder how our Congress can respond to this command with sequestration cuts being enacted daily. We’ve heard […]

Sequestration Cuts 300,000 Families from Energy Assistance

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

What does the Lord require of you? Christians are very familiar with the Micah 6:8 verse where we are required to “to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God.” One has to wonder how our Congress can respond to this command with sequestration cuts being enacted daily. We’ve heard […]

Advent Worship Resources for Vulnerable Mothers

By chris

Date: Advent 4 - Dec. 22, 2013
Topic: Vulnerable Mothers
Focus Text: Matthew 1:18-25
Drawing on the Old Testament, James speaks of the prophets who endured suffering and, for their steadfastness, are called “blessed." This is the same word used in the beatitudes, another text which brings comfort to those who are suffering or longing for justice in light of God’s future reign. James also goes on to invoke Job, a proverbial figure of faithfulness and long-suffering in times of trial. These figures exemplify faithfulness even in the face of oppression.

Advent Worship Resources for Vulnerable Mothers

by chris

Date: Advent 4 – Dec. 22, 2013
Topic: Vulnerable Mothers
Focus Text: Matthew 1:18-25
Drawing on the Old Testament, James speaks of the prophets who endured suffering and, for their steadfastness, are called “blessed.” This is the same word used in the beatitudes, another text which brings comfort to those who are suffering or longing for justice in light of God’s future reign. James also goes on to invoke Job, a proverbial figure of faithfulness and long-suffering in times of trial. These figures exemplify faithfulness even in the face of oppression.