NC Interfaith Power & Light Voices

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Congregations Act on Faith and Science

February 24, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Remarks delivered by NCIPL Director Susannah Tuttle at a press conference on February 23. People of faith have always embraced our cathedrals, churches, mosques, synagogues, and temples as sacred. In […]

Congregations Act on Faith and Science

February 24, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Sol Train Connects Climate and Faith with Solar Power

February 22, 2017 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Many people want to take meaningful action on climate change but don’t know where to start. Taking a big step, like switching to solar, doesn’t have to be hard. Any […]

Sol Train Connects Climate and Faith with Solar Power

February 22, 2017 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Many people want to take meaningful action on climate change but don’t know where to start. Taking a big step, like switching to solar, doesn’t have to be hard. Any […]

Welcome Andrew and Michelle!

February 15, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council has added two new staffers in recent months. Andrew Hudgins is our Program Associate for Operations, and Michelle Peedin is our Program Associate for North Carolina Interfaith Power […]

Welcome Andrew and Michelle!

February 15, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council has added two new staffers in recent months. Andrew Hudgins is our Program Associate for Operations, and Michelle Peedin is our Program Associate for North Carolina Interfaith Power […]

Whispers and Shouts

February 11, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Sometimes God whispers. Whether through hymns or homilies or kids dancing their way down the aisle to children’s chapel. Sometimes God shouts. Through the amplified suffering of others, known or […]

Whispers and Shouts

February 11, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Big Stakes in High Court Pick

February 1, 2017 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Compared with some of the provocatively, even outrageously unsuited people whom President Trump has chosen for high office, Neil Gorsuch barely moves the needle. But that’s not to say Americans […]

Big Stakes in High Court Pick

February 1, 2017 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Getting Back to Our Normal: Some Suggestions for the Long Haul

January 27, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our friend Rob Schofield over at Policy Watch wrote a column on Tuesday that was as vitally important in its truth-telling as it was hard to read for the future […]

Getting Back to Our Normal: Some Suggestions for the Long Haul

January 27, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our friend Rob Schofield over at Policy Watch wrote a column on Tuesday that was as vitally important in its truth-telling as it was hard to read for the future […]

Let’s Keep Marching

January 23, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

At another time in my life, I would not have spent most of Saturday occupying my tiny square of personal space in the heart of Washington DC, literally shoulder to […]

Let’s Keep Marching

January 23, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

At another time in my life, I would not have spent most of Saturday occupying my tiny square of personal space in the heart of Washington DC, literally shoulder to […]

A Letter to President Trump

January 20, 2017 By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Dear Mr. Trump, You ARE my president. I did not vote for you, but you were elected, and that makes you my president because I am a citizen of these […]

A Letter to President Trump

January 20, 2017 by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Dear Mr. Trump, You ARE my president. I did not vote for you, but you were elected, and that makes you my president because I am a citizen of these […]

Speak Out on Cabinet Nominees

January 10, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Groups at the state and national level continue to mobilize around concerns about President-Elect Donald Trump’s stated policy objectives and choices for cabinet posts. The NC NAACP, Interfaith Power & […]

Speak Out on Cabinet Nominees

January 10, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

PHW Mini-Grants Now Open

January 7, 2017 By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We are excited to announce that we are now accepting mini-grant applications. Congregations who were certified in 2016 (and have not already received a grant from the last cycle) are […]

PHW Mini-Grants Now Open

January 7, 2017 by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We are excited to announce that we are now accepting mini-grant applications. Congregations who were certified in 2016 (and have not already received a grant from the last cycle) are […]

Partners in Health and Wholeness Grant Cycle Opens January 6

January 5, 2017 By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

PHW-certified congregations across North Carolina are eligible to apply for a mini-grant to assist in furthering their commitment to health and wholeness. Mini-grant application periods are open twice a year; […]

Partners in Health and Wholeness Grant Cycle Opens January 6

January 5, 2017 by Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Job Opening: Program Associate for PHW and NCIPL

January 1, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council is hiring a full-time program associate to support Partners in Health and Wholeness and North Carolina Interfaith Power and Light. The full job description is posted below and […]

Job Opening: Program Associate for PHW and NCIPL

January 1, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council is hiring a full-time program associate to support Partners in Health and Wholeness and North Carolina Interfaith Power and Light. The full job description is posted below and […]

Seeds of Change in a Momentous Year

December 31, 2016 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

As we watched the egregiously unqualified Donald Trump campaign for and win election to the White House, any good news on the government and politics front was likely to be […]

Seeds of Change in a Momentous Year

December 31, 2016 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

As we watched the egregiously unqualified Donald Trump campaign for and win election to the White House, any good news on the government and politics front was likely to be […]

The Rural Oasis: Conetoe Family Life Center

December 28, 2016 By Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

The amount of grassroots, efficient, and sustainable Kingdom work happening in North Carolina is astounding. People across our state are working together in various communities to promote health and wholeness. […]

The Rural Oasis: Conetoe Family Life Center

December 28, 2016 by Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

The Council Welcomes Your End-of-Year Gift

December 26, 2016 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Looking ahead to 2017, there is much more work for the Council to do than we ever imagined. Please join us. Your financial support helps us continue what began in […]

The Council Welcomes Your End-of-Year Gift

December 26, 2016 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Looking ahead to 2017, there is much more work for the Council to do than we ever imagined. Please join us. Your financial support helps us continue what began in […]

Support North Carolina’s Faithful Voice for Justice, Unity, and Peace

December 18, 2016 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We are living in unsettling times. Progress we once thought inviolable now feels threatened. One constant is the NC Council of Churches and our commitment to a more just, united, […]

Support North Carolina’s Faithful Voice for Justice, Unity, and Peace

December 18, 2016 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We are living in unsettling times. Progress we once thought inviolable now feels threatened. One constant is the NC Council of Churches and our commitment to a more just, united, […]

Advent Guide: Fourth Sunday, December 18

December 17, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz, saying, […]

Advent Guide: Fourth Sunday, December 18

December 17, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz, saying, […]

Post-Election Travesty Targets the Governor

December 15, 2016 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The ugly truth can’t be evaded or denied: North Carolina’s General Assembly, in the grip of an arrogant Republican majority, has plunged ahead with a shocking, shameful abuse of power […]

Post-Election Travesty Targets the Governor

December 15, 2016 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The ugly truth can’t be evaded or denied: North Carolina’s General Assembly, in the grip of an arrogant Republican majority, has plunged ahead with a shocking, shameful abuse of power […]

NCIPL Webinars — December 5 and 7

December 5, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Now, more than ever, we need you to put your faith into action. On April 29, under the banner of the People’s Climate Movement, people of faith will join partners […]

NCIPL Webinars — December 5 and 7

December 5, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Now, more than ever, we need you to put your faith into action. On April 29, under the banner of the People’s Climate Movement, people of faith will join partners […]

Be Thankful for Immigrants and Indigenous People

November 23, 2016 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Almost 400 years ago, in what is now Massachusetts, a group of newly arrived immigrants from Europe received lifesaving hospitality from a group of indigenous Americans. Tomorrow, we celebrate and […]

Be Thankful for Immigrants and Indigenous People

November 23, 2016 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Nina Voli: Duke University Must be a Climate Leader

November 17, 2016 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Council intern and Duke Divinity School student Nina Voli contributed a powerful column to The Chronicle about the proposal to build a natural gas power plant on Duke’s campus. She […]

Nina Voli: Duke University Must be a Climate Leader

November 17, 2016 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Council intern and Duke Divinity School student Nina Voli contributed a powerful column to The Chronicle about the proposal to build a natural gas power plant on Duke’s campus. She […]

Knowing the Truth

November 15, 2016 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Remarks delivered by Jennifer Copeland at a November 15 press conference in Fayetteville opposing the Atlantic Coast Pipeline. Roughly half the people in this country, give or take six hundred […]

Knowing the Truth

November 15, 2016 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Remarks delivered by Jennifer Copeland at a November 15 press conference in Fayetteville opposing the Atlantic Coast Pipeline. Roughly half the people in this country, give or take six hundred […]

Advent Guide Focuses on Peace

November 10, 2016 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches has never taken peace for granted. Indeed, along with our work in opposition to violence, there has long been the recognition that peace manifests itself […]

Advent Guide Focuses on Peace

November 10, 2016 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches has never taken peace for granted. Indeed, along with our work in opposition to violence, there has long been the recognition that peace manifests itself […]

Community Contributes to Our Wholeness

November 10, 2016 By Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

Partners in Health and Wholeness ambitiously endeavors to work for and toward issues of mind, body, and spirit with faith communities. The words ‘health’ and ‘wholeness’ are truly huge words, […]

Community Contributes to Our Wholeness

November 10, 2016 by Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

Separating Church and Hate Since 1935

November 9, 2016 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We work toward a church that is all-loving. That’s what we’ve always done and that’s what we’re going to keep doing. Stay connected with the Council to learn about opportunities […]

Separating Church and Hate Since 1935

November 9, 2016 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We work toward a church that is all-loving. That’s what we’ve always done and that’s what we’re going to keep doing. Stay connected with the Council to learn about opportunities […]

First in NC: Screening of “Before the Flood” in Raleigh on November 3

October 29, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Join North Carolina Interfaith Power and Light and the NC Council of Churches for a first in North Carolina screening of “Before the Flood,” a film by Academy-Award winners Leonardo […]

First in NC: Screening of “Before the Flood” in Raleigh on November 3

October 29, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Join North Carolina Interfaith Power and Light and the NC Council of Churches for a first in North Carolina screening of “Before the Flood,” a film by Academy-Award winners Leonardo […]

Faith Groups Keep Pushing for Solar Access in NC

October 24, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

As the North Carolina Court of Appeals considers a Greensboro church’s use of a popular solar financing method, faith groups from across the state continue to support the call for […]

Faith Groups Keep Pushing for Solar Access in NC

October 24, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

As the North Carolina Court of Appeals considers a Greensboro church’s use of a popular solar financing method, faith groups from across the state continue to support the call for […]

Prayers for Those Impacted by Matthew

October 10, 2016 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We pray for all those impacted by Hurricane Matthew’s devastation. May we be faithful in our commitment to assisting them now and to the long-term recovery efforts needed after such a […]

Prayers for Those Impacted by Matthew

October 10, 2016 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We pray for all those impacted by Hurricane Matthew’s devastation. May we be faithful in our commitment to assisting them now and to the long-term recovery efforts needed after such a […]

A Month to Reflect on Energy Efficiency

October 7, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

October is National Energy Awareness Month and the NC Council of Churches wants to empower congregations to do all they can to reduce their carbon footprint and move to clean […]

A Month to Reflect on Energy Efficiency

October 7, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

October is National Energy Awareness Month and the NC Council of Churches wants to empower congregations to do all they can to reduce their carbon footprint and move to clean […]

Growing a Partnership with Environmental Defense Fund

October 3, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Two weeks ago I was selected as the keynote speaker at the Environmental Defense Fund NC’s Advisory Board dinner to present the collaborative activities and accomplishments of our growing partnership. […]

Growing a Partnership with Environmental Defense Fund

October 3, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Inclusive Climate Adaptation and Resilience Building

September 16, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

The impacts of climate variability and change affect everyone, but they disproportionately affect vulnerable populations with the least resources to prepare and recover from the damage. Understanding where these concerns […]

Inclusive Climate Adaptation and Resilience Building

September 16, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Health, Wholeness, and Climate Change?

September 9, 2016 By Nicole Johnson, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

“Partners in Health and Wholeness, an initiative of the North Carolina Council of Churches, is designed to bridge issues of faith, health and social justice.” These are the words that […]

Health, Wholeness, and Climate Change?

September 9, 2016 by Nicole Johnson, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

“Partners in Health and Wholeness, an initiative of the North Carolina Council of Churches, is designed to bridge issues of faith, health and social justice.” These are the words that […]

Pray for God’s Creation

August 30, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

On September 1 people around the world are coming together to pray for God’s creation, and to observe the Season of Creation between that day and October 4 – the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi. NC Interfaith […]

Pray for God’s Creation

August 30, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

NCIPL’s Penny Hooper Named “Woman of the Year”

August 26, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

We are thrilled to share that Penny J. Hopper has been awarded “Woman of the Year” by the League of Women Voters of Carteret County, NC. Penny joined NC Interfaith […]

NCIPL’s Penny Hooper Named “Woman of the Year”

August 26, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

We are thrilled to share that Penny J. Hopper has been awarded “Woman of the Year” by the League of Women Voters of Carteret County, NC. Penny joined NC Interfaith […]

When it Rains it Pours in a Changing Climate

August 19, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Extreme rainfall events like this week’s storms in Louisiana are expected to grow increasingly common in the coming years. Louisiana is always at risk of floods, naturally, but climate change […]

When it Rains it Pours in a Changing Climate

August 19, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Extreme rainfall events like this week’s storms in Louisiana are expected to grow increasingly common in the coming years. Louisiana is always at risk of floods, naturally, but climate change […]

Summer Is a Great Time to Be emPOWERed

July 22, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Energy usage is soaring in NC as we all try to stay cool during the long days of heat and humidity this summer. It’s a great time to highlight an opportunity […]

Summer Is a Great Time to Be emPOWERed

July 22, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Energy usage is soaring in NC as we all try to stay cool during the long days of heat and humidity this summer. It’s a great time to highlight an opportunity […]

African Methodist Episcopal Church Adopts Climate Change Resolution

July 18, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

By Ryan J. Smith, Blessed Tomorrow The African Methodist Episcopal Church, the oldest independent Protestant denomination founded by Black people in the world and Blessed Tomorrow’s partner organization, has passed […]

African Methodist Episcopal Church Adopts Climate Change Resolution

July 18, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Light Up: Reflections on the Summer Solstice

June 20, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Like most days, I start the day by scanning email on my phone before I even get out of bed. Today, I was delighted to find that my friend, Hope Horton had shared […]

Light Up: Reflections on the Summer Solstice

June 20, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Like most days, I start the day by scanning email on my phone before I even get out of bed. Today, I was delighted to find that my friend, Hope Horton had shared […]

Budgeting that Tests our Values

June 3, 2016 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Let’s assume the worst, which for the moment would mean that the N.C. Senate’s version of a new state budget sails through to enactment without change or compromise. The sun, […]

Budgeting that Tests our Values

June 3, 2016 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Let’s assume the worst, which for the moment would mean that the N.C. Senate’s version of a new state budget sails through to enactment without change or compromise. The sun, […]

Raleigh Report: Weekly Update, May 25, 2016

May 25, 2016 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The update is compiled on a volunteer basis by George Reed, the Council’s retired executive director. Weekly Update May 25, 2016 (Legislators’ identifications are listed only the first time they […]

Raleigh Report: Weekly Update, May 25, 2016

May 25, 2016 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

2016 Faith Voices for Clean Energy Advocacy Day

May 15, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

On May 11, NCIPL hosted the Second Annual Faith Voices for Clean Energy Advocacy Day. Members of faith communities from across the state met with representatives of the NC General […]

2016 Faith Voices for Clean Energy Advocacy Day

May 15, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

On May 11, NCIPL hosted the Second Annual Faith Voices for Clean Energy Advocacy Day. Members of faith communities from across the state met with representatives of the NC General […]

Earth Day 2016

April 22, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

On this Earth Day 2016, let us celebrate that the federal Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has left out the mid-Atlantic region from its final draft proposal for new […]

Earth Day 2016

April 22, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

On this Earth Day 2016, let us celebrate that the federal Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has left out the mid-Atlantic region from its final draft proposal for new […]

NCIPL Joins National Call to Support Green Climate Fund

April 12, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

This week, NC Interfaith Power & Light joined 120 religious traditions and organizations across the nation representing tens of millions of Americans – including the US Conference of Catholic Bishops, Jewish […]

NCIPL Joins National Call to Support Green Climate Fund

April 12, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

2016 Critical Issues Seminar — Register for Workshops

April 5, 2016 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Registration for 2016 Critical Issues Seminar workshops is now available online. If you have not yet registered, please use the form below to do so and include your selection for […]

2016 Critical Issues Seminar — Register for Workshops

April 5, 2016 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Registration for 2016 Critical Issues Seminar workshops is now available online. If you have not yet registered, please use the form below to do so and include your selection for […]

NCIPL Hosts Katharine Hayhoe, World-Renowned Climate Scientist

April 3, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

NCIPL is hosting Dr. Katharine Hayhoe, world-renowned climate scientist and educator with a deep faith in God, the first week of April 2016. Go here for a complete list of the wonderful events planned with […]

NCIPL Hosts Katharine Hayhoe, World-Renowned Climate Scientist

April 3, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Obama Withdraws Plan for Atlantic Coast Offshore Drilling

March 15, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

No drilling off North Carolina’s coast… It’s time to celebrate! NCIPL recently presented a statement opposing offshore oil drilling unanimously approved by the NC Council of Churches Governing Board. As a […]

Obama Withdraws Plan for Atlantic Coast Offshore Drilling

March 15, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Lenten Guide — Fifth Sunday

March 12, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Love One Another: Reflections on Race, Power, and Privilege” Fifth Sunday in Lent —John 12:1-8 Six days before the Passover Jesus […]

Lenten Guide — Fifth Sunday

March 12, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Love One Another: Reflections on Race, Power, and Privilege” Fifth Sunday in Lent —John 12:1-8 Six days before the Passover Jesus […]

The Path Toward Energy Justice: Creating a Climate for Change

March 4, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Infographic by Tracy Loeffelholz Dunn / The Nation. Shutterstock images from Lorelyn Medina, Agusto Cabral The Clean Power Plan, and transitioning to a clean energy economy more broadly, are creating […]

The Path Toward Energy Justice: Creating a Climate for Change

March 4, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

NCCC Policy Statement Opposing Offshore Drilling

March 3, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

The following was adopted by the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches at their meeting on March 1. Go here to download the text. As people of […]

NCCC Policy Statement Opposing Offshore Drilling

March 3, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

The following was adopted by the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches at their meeting on March 1. Go here to download the text. As people of […]

Statement Opposing Offshore Drilling

March 1, 2016 By North Carolina Council of Churches

As people of faith, we proclaim our belief that our world is God’s creation, that God sees it as good, and that it is ours to protect and maintain. We […]

Statement Opposing Offshore Drilling

March 1, 2016 by North Carolina Council of Churches

As people of faith, we proclaim our belief that our world is God’s creation, that God sees it as good, and that it is ours to protect and maintain. We […]

Critical Issues Seminar — Registration Now Open

February 9, 2016 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Join us for the Council’s 2016 Critical Issues Seminar, focused on Race, Power, and Privilege, on Saturday, April 23 at St. Matthew United Methodist Church, 600 East Florida Street, Greensboro. […]

Critical Issues Seminar — Registration Now Open

February 9, 2016 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Tenth Annual HKonJ is February 13

February 6, 2016 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Join the NAACP, NC Council of Churches, and other coalition partners for the Tenth Annual Moral March on Raleigh. Historic Thousands on Jones Street 2016 takes place on Saturday, February 13; […]

Tenth Annual HKonJ is February 13

February 6, 2016 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Join the NAACP, NC Council of Churches, and other coalition partners for the Tenth Annual Moral March on Raleigh. Historic Thousands on Jones Street 2016 takes place on Saturday, February 13; […]

Watershed Discipleship

January 21, 2016 By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I was intrigued by this ten-minute video passed on to me by community organizer and Council super-volunteer John Parker. I first came to learn of watershed discipleship through Fred Bahnson, director of the […]

Watershed Discipleship

January 21, 2016 by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

The State of Our Union and Climate Justice

January 14, 2016 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Were you watching? This week President Obama gave his final State of the Union speech. He touted the success of the Paris conference in bringing 195 countries together to agree […]

The State of Our Union and Climate Justice

January 14, 2016 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Were you watching? This week President Obama gave his final State of the Union speech. He touted the success of the Paris conference in bringing 195 countries together to agree […]

2015: Our Conservatives Weren’t Kidding

December 31, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For those of us who want to see North Carolina governed with the interests of all its residents in mind – not mainly the interests of the well-off and privileged […]

2015: Our Conservatives Weren’t Kidding

December 31, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For those of us who want to see North Carolina governed with the interests of all its residents in mind – not mainly the interests of the well-off and privileged […]

Paris Agreement a Breakthrough for Creation Care

December 17, 2015 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

The world has witnessed a breakthrough with the release of the proposed final text of the Paris Agreement at COP 21. All participating countries have acknowledged that climate change is […]

Paris Agreement a Breakthrough for Creation Care

December 17, 2015 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

The world has witnessed a breakthrough with the release of the proposed final text of the Paris Agreement at COP 21. All participating countries have acknowledged that climate change is […]

United Church of Chapel Hill’s Solar Journey

December 10, 2015 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

On November 6, the latest photovoltaic array on a North Carolina house of worship went online. The 84.76 kW, 326-panel system will generate 60% of the annual electricity needs at United […]

United Church of Chapel Hill’s Solar Journey

December 10, 2015 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

On November 6, the latest photovoltaic array on a North Carolina house of worship went online. The 84.76 kW, 326-panel system will generate 60% of the annual electricity needs at United […]

PHW Intern Reflections

December 6, 2015 By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

By Brian Hollingsworth, PHW Intern, Wake Forest University School of Divinity A few years ago, my faith needed a breath of new life. Despite having grown up in church, being […]

PHW Intern Reflections

December 6, 2015 by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

By Brian Hollingsworth, PHW Intern, Wake Forest University School of Divinity A few years ago, my faith needed a breath of new life. Despite having grown up in church, being […]

Paris Climate Talks in Three Minutes

December 2, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Take three minutes to watch NCIPL Director Susannah Tuttle explain the climate conversation in Paris.

Paris Climate Talks in Three Minutes

December 2, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Take three minutes to watch NCIPL Director Susannah Tuttle explain the climate conversation in Paris.

Coffee Cups and Jesus

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

Jesus does not care about your latte. Your frappuccino, cappuccino, or mocha, either. At least, he doesn’t care about the cup it is served in and whether it’s branded to […]

Coffee Cups and Jesus

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

Jesus does not care about your latte. Your frappuccino, cappuccino, or mocha, either. At least, he doesn’t care about the cup it is served in and whether it’s branded to […]

‘We stand adjourned’ – finally!

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

The senators and representatives who make up North Carolina’s General Assembly let their 2015 session run on far longer than it should have. Let’s be glad that the curtain has […]

‘We stand adjourned’ – finally!

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

The senators and representatives who make up North Carolina’s General Assembly let their 2015 session run on far longer than it should have. Let’s be glad that the curtain has […]

Pope Francis in the US

October 2, 2015 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

For faith-based environmental activists, Pope Francis’s visit to the United States had a major effect even before he set foot on American soil. Now they hope his trip’s influence on […]

Pope Francis in the US

October 2, 2015 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

For faith-based environmental activists, Pope Francis’s visit to the United States had a major effect even before he set foot on American soil. Now they hope his trip’s influence on […]

Love God, Love Creation

September 23, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The following, based on Psalm 148, was offered by Rev. Jennifer Copeland at Raleigh’s Church of the Nativity on September 23 as part of an ecumenical prayer service on the […]

Love God, Love Creation

September 23, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The following, based on Psalm 148, was offered by Rev. Jennifer Copeland at Raleigh’s Church of the Nativity on September 23 as part of an ecumenical prayer service on the […]

Budget Struggle’s Bitter End

September 17, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The proverbial elephant labored and, against all hopeful expectations, brought forth a mouse. The “elephants” who run the Republican-controlled General Assembly labored and now have brought forth, if not a […]

Budget Struggle’s Bitter End

September 17, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Congregations Need NC’s Solar Tax Credits Extended

August 28, 2015 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

NC Interfaith Power & Light Director Susannah Tuttle delivered this statement at a press conference held at United Church of Chapel Hill on August 25. Every faith tradition mandates care […]

Congregations Need NC’s Solar Tax Credits Extended

August 28, 2015 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

NC Interfaith Power & Light Director Susannah Tuttle delivered this statement at a press conference held at United Church of Chapel Hill on August 25. Every faith tradition mandates care […]

Pope Francis Calls for World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation

August 17, 2015 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

“I wish to inform you that I have decided to institute in the Catholic Church the ‘World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation’ which, beginning this year, is […]

Pope Francis Calls for World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation

August 17, 2015 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

“I wish to inform you that I have decided to institute in the Catholic Church the ‘World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation’ which, beginning this year, is […]

Clean Power Plan: Right and Moral

August 8, 2015 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

New federal safeguards to reduce carbon emissions from existing power plants are necessary not just because they help the environment, but because they are the right and moral thing to […]

Clean Power Plan: Right and Moral

August 8, 2015 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

New federal safeguards to reduce carbon emissions from existing power plants are necessary not just because they help the environment, but because they are the right and moral thing to […]

A New Heaven

July 10, 2015 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 […]

A New Heaven

July 10, 2015 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 […]

Conflicts over Policies, Power, Pride

July 9, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Regarding the state of affairs within the N.C. General Assembly these days, one little set of numbers tells a big story: 112-0. That was the margin by which the House […]

Conflicts over Policies, Power, Pride

July 9, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Regarding the state of affairs within the N.C. General Assembly these days, one little set of numbers tells a big story: 112-0. That was the margin by which the House […]

An Encyclical for Summer Reading

July 8, 2015 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Summertime has always been considered the best season for reading and this year we are blessed with what arguably could be considered some of the best reading material ever written! […]

An Encyclical for Summer Reading

July 8, 2015 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Summertime has always been considered the best season for reading and this year we are blessed with what arguably could be considered some of the best reading material ever written! […]

The Leadership of Pope Francis

June 26, 2015 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 […]

The Leadership of Pope Francis

June 26, 2015 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 […]

Evelyn and the Encyclical

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

I strongly suspect Sister Evelyn Mattern would have liked Pope Francis. She’d have appreciated his focus on compassion and justice and his unwillingness to be distracted from those issues that […]

Evelyn and the Encyclical

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

The Pope and Ecology: Shouts from the Highest Steeple

June 12, 2015 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

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

The Pope and Ecology: Shouts from the Highest Steeple

June 12, 2015 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

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

Leadership and Hope at the Margins

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

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

Leadership and Hope at the Margins

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

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

Bills Wink at Polluters, Abusers

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

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

Bills Wink at Polluters, Abusers

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

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

At the Legislature, a Fateful Crossing

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

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

At the Legislature, a Fateful Crossing

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

Justice Advocates Convene for the Cause

April 18, 2015 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 […]

Justice Advocates Convene for the Cause

April 18, 2015 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 […]

NCIPL’s Spring into Action Kickoff Week has Wrapped Up

March 31, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Reuben Gelblum, NCIPL Intern Thank you to everyone who helped make our Spring Into Action kickoff week a success! You all participated from all over the state, listening in […]

NCIPL’s Spring into Action Kickoff Week has Wrapped Up

March 31, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Reuben Gelblum, NCIPL Intern Thank you to everyone who helped make our Spring Into Action kickoff week a success! You all participated from all over the state, listening in […]

Council Puts Hot Topics on the Table

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

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

Council Puts Hot Topics on the Table

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

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

Coming to the Seminar? Bring a Friend!

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

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

Coming to the Seminar? Bring a Friend!

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

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

Thoughts on Obama’s Veto of Keystone XL

March 6, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

President Obama has vetoed the Keystone XL bill that he received from Congress, one of only three times he has used his presidential veto (for comparison, President Reagan used his a […]

Thoughts on Obama’s Veto of Keystone XL

March 6, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

President Obama has vetoed the Keystone XL bill that he received from Congress, one of only three times he has used his presidential veto (for comparison, President Reagan used his a […]

Register for 2015 Legislative Seminar — Updated with Workshops and Presenters

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

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

Register for 2015 Legislative Seminar — Updated with Workshops and Presenters

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

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

A Guide to the Christian Food Movement

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

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

A Guide to the Christian Food Movement

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

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

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

February 2, 2015 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

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

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

February 2, 2015 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

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

What Frightens Civitas?

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

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

What Frightens Civitas?

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

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

Healthy Eating for You and the Planet

January 14, 2015 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

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

Healthy Eating for You and the Planet

January 14, 2015 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

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

So Long, 2014: It Wasn’t all Pretty!

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

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

So Long, 2014: It Wasn’t all Pretty!

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

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

Climate Change and the New NC DENR Chief

December 20, 2014 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

More than 97 percent of the world’s climate scientists believe we humans are changing our climate for the worse. (That scientific consensus is as strong as the one that finds […]

Climate Change and the New NC DENR Chief

December 20, 2014 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

More than 97 percent of the world’s climate scientists believe we humans are changing our climate for the worse. (That scientific consensus is as strong as the one that finds […]

Giving Thanks for Christmas Trees

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

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

Giving Thanks for Christmas Trees

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

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

2014 Advent Guide

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

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

2014 Advent Guide

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

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

Religious Leaders Meet with EPA Administrator McCarthy

November 22, 2014 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

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

Religious Leaders Meet with EPA Administrator McCarthy

November 22, 2014 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Environmental Responsibility Knows No Boundaries

November 13, 2014 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

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

Environmental Responsibility Knows No Boundaries

November 13, 2014 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Conservatives, Riding High, Can Heed Cooler Heads

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

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

Conservatives, Riding High, Can Heed Cooler Heads

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

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

Council Post-Election Road Shows to Charlotte and Asheville

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

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

Council Post-Election Road Shows to Charlotte and Asheville

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

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

Hope for Our Future: The EPA Clean Power Plan

November 7, 2014 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

More than 40% of carbon pollution comes from power plants. Yet incredibly, there are currently no limits on greenhouse gas emissions from these plants. But now, the EPA has proposed first-ever standards for […]

Hope for Our Future: The EPA Clean Power Plan

November 7, 2014 by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Worship Resources on Sustainable Living

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

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

Worship Resources on Sustainable Living

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

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