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Gun Violence

Law expands concealed carry rights in churches

· Spectrum News

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

Law expands concealed carry rights in churches

· Spectrum News

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

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

· WRAL

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

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

· WRAL

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

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

· Fox 8

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

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

· Fox 8

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

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

· Fox 8

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

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

· Fox 8

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

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

· Spectrum News

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

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

· Spectrum News

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

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Out of the starting gate — sideways

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

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

Out of the starting gate — sideways

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

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

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

· NC Policy Watch

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

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

· NC Policy Watch

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

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Press Conference in Response to Raleigh Mass Shooting

By Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

The following remarks were delivered by Eco-Justice Connection Director, Susannah Tuttle, during a gun violence prevention press conference on October 14, 2022, in response to the recent Raleigh mass shooting. Click here to view the recording of the press conference. My name is Susannah Tuttle and I am here on behalf of the North Carolina […]

Press Conference in Response to Raleigh Mass Shooting

by Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

The following remarks were delivered by Eco-Justice Connection Director, Susannah Tuttle, during a gun violence prevention press conference on October 14, 2022, in response to the recent Raleigh mass shooting. Click here to view the recording of the press conference. My name is Susannah Tuttle and I am here on behalf of the North Carolina […]

NAACP, Council of Churches gather for prayer, call for end to gun violence

· WRAL News

Community partners are calling on gun owners to secure their firearms in response to Thursday’s mass shooting. Watch the press conference:

NAACP, Council of Churches gather for prayer, call for end to gun violence

· WRAL News

Community partners are calling on gun owners to secure their firearms in response to Thursday’s mass shooting. Watch the press conference:

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1 in 6 North Carolina counties have more gun dealers than mental health providers

· ABC 11

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WTVD) — While the country recovers from two mass shootings in 10 days, the national conversation is turning to two topics: gun access and mental health. In a news conference Wednesday, Texas governor Greg Abbott placed the blame for the shooting at an elementary school in his state on mental health issues. “We as a […]

1 in 6 North Carolina counties have more gun dealers than mental health providers

· ABC 11

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WTVD) — While the country recovers from two mass shootings in 10 days, the national conversation is turning to two topics: gun access and mental health. In a news conference Wednesday, Texas governor Greg Abbott placed the blame for the shooting at an elementary school in his state on mental health issues. “We as a […]

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You Shall Not Make an Idol

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland, during one of the four gun violence prevention vigils that occurred across North Carolina on April 24, 2022. The following vigil took place at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church in Raleigh, NC. God knows we are violent people. It’s been this way since Cain killed Abel […]

You Shall Not Make an Idol

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland, during one of the four gun violence prevention vigils that occurred across North Carolina on April 24, 2022. The following vigil took place at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church in Raleigh, NC. God knows we are violent people. It’s been this way since Cain killed Abel […]

No to SB 43

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland, on January 5, 2021 at a Gun Violence Prevention press conference. View the live stream here. When individual rights are at odds with community safety, my faith tradition dictates that we lean toward community safety. Biblically speaking, individual rights are seldom privileged. Instead, the Bible privileges […]

No to SB 43

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland, on January 5, 2021 at a Gun Violence Prevention press conference. View the live stream here. When individual rights are at odds with community safety, my faith tradition dictates that we lean toward community safety. Biblically speaking, individual rights are seldom privileged. Instead, the Bible privileges […]

Gun Violence Prevention: The Work Goes On

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The North Carolina Council of Churches has long cared about gun violence prevention — you would expect that from an organization that devotes much of its energy toward PEACE. A few years ago, however, we became very intentional about this work and in those years have united with a bevy of organizations across N.C. who […]

Gun Violence Prevention: The Work Goes On

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The North Carolina Council of Churches has long cared about gun violence prevention — you would expect that from an organization that devotes much of its energy toward PEACE. A few years ago, however, we became very intentional about this work and in those years have united with a bevy of organizations across N.C. who […]

Guns, Medicaid, Gridlock

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

It can’t have escaped many folks’ notice – even those, bless their hearts, for whom the really big news involves the onset of football season – that our political systems these days feature a whole lot of wheel-spinning and gear-grinding in the face of epic challenges. Psychopaths toting massacre-model firearms stalk public gathering places and […]

Guns, Medicaid, Gridlock

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

It can’t have escaped many folks’ notice – even those, bless their hearts, for whom the really big news involves the onset of football season – that our political systems these days feature a whole lot of wheel-spinning and gear-grinding in the face of epic challenges. Psychopaths toting massacre-model firearms stalk public gathering places and […]

Guns, Medicaid, Gridlock

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

It can’t have escaped many folks’ notice – even those, bless their hearts, for whom the really big news involves the onset of football season – that our political systems these days feature a whole lot of wheel-spinning and gear-grinding in the face of epic challenges. Psychopaths toting massacre-model firearms stalk public gathering places and […]

Guns, Medicaid, Gridlock

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

It can’t have escaped many folks’ notice – even those, bless their hearts, for whom the really big news involves the onset of football season – that our political systems these days feature a whole lot of wheel-spinning and gear-grinding in the face of epic challenges. Psychopaths toting massacre-model firearms stalk public gathering places and […]

Staying Sane: Gun Laws that Work

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The Mother Emanuel, Charleston, SC, shooting was four years ago today, June 17. The N.C. General Assembly Senate Judiciary Committee will consider Senate Bill 90 tomorrow, June 18. A favorable ruling will move this bill closer to becoming law in N.C. Studies show that more guns mean more shootings. Senate Bill 90 allows for more […]

Staying Sane: Gun Laws that Work

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The Mother Emanuel, Charleston, SC, shooting was four years ago today, June 17. The N.C. General Assembly Senate Judiciary Committee will consider Senate Bill 90 tomorrow, June 18. A favorable ruling will move this bill closer to becoming law in N.C. Studies show that more guns mean more shootings. Senate Bill 90 allows for more […]

Raleigh Report – April 29, 2019

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Introduced Bills CRIMINAL JUSTICE HB 834 – Ban the Box would prohibit the state from asking a job applicant about his/her criminal history until that applicant had been selected for an interview. Introduced by Rep. K. Smith (D-Greenville) and referred to House Rules. HB 839 – Study Community-Based Sentencing Alternatives would create a legislative study […]

Raleigh Report – April 29, 2019

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Introduced Bills CRIMINAL JUSTICE HB 834 – Ban the Box would prohibit the state from asking a job applicant about his/her criminal history until that applicant had been selected for an interview. Introduced by Rep. K. Smith (D-Greenville) and referred to House Rules. HB 839 – Study Community-Based Sentencing Alternatives would create a legislative study […]

Raleigh Report – April 22, 2019

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

INTRODUCED BILLS CRIMINAL JUSTICEHB 781 – Limitations on Use of Solitary Confinementactually contains several items related to prisons: Solitary confinement couldn’t be used for inmates with serious mental illness unless there is a threat to the safety of the inmate or others and then for no more than 15 days without an evaluation by a […]

Raleigh Report – April 22, 2019

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

INTRODUCED BILLS CRIMINAL JUSTICEHB 781 – Limitations on Use of Solitary Confinementactually contains several items related to prisons: Solitary confinement couldn’t be used for inmates with serious mental illness unless there is a threat to the safety of the inmate or others and then for no more than 15 days without an evaluation by a […]

Raleigh Report – April 11, 2019

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

INTRODUCED BILLS CRIMINAL JUSTICE HB 587 – Repeal Death Penalty would abolish the death penalty, and all prisoners currently on Death Row would be resentenced to life imprisonment without parole. Introduced by Reps. Meyer (D-Hillsborough), Black (D-Durham), and Hawkins (D-Durham) and referred to House Judiciary and then to Rules.   ECONOMIC JUSTICE/WORKERS RIGHTS HB 533 […]

Raleigh Report – April 11, 2019

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

INTRODUCED BILLS CRIMINAL JUSTICE HB 587 – Repeal Death Penalty would abolish the death penalty, and all prisoners currently on Death Row would be resentenced to life imprisonment without parole. Introduced by Reps. Meyer (D-Hillsborough), Black (D-Durham), and Hawkins (D-Durham) and referred to House Judiciary and then to Rules.   ECONOMIC JUSTICE/WORKERS RIGHTS HB 533 […]

Raleigh Report – March 11, 2019

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

INTRODUCED BILLS GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION With the passing last month of the first anniversary of the shooting deaths of 17 at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, FL, the General Assembly has seen the introduction of several gun-related bills from all across the political spectrum. These include: HB 86 – Gun Violence Prevention Act […]

Raleigh Report – March 11, 2019

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

INTRODUCED BILLS GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION With the passing last month of the first anniversary of the shooting deaths of 17 at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, FL, the General Assembly has seen the introduction of several gun-related bills from all across the political spectrum. These include: HB 86 – Gun Violence Prevention Act […]

Vetting the Vote: Gun Sanity

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

As if we need to be reminded of the preponderance of guns and gun-related violence on our streets, we’ve had served up for us in the closing days before the midterm elections the deadliest attack on the Jewish community in this nation’s history. A lone gunman on Oct. 27 shot and killed 11 Sabbath worshippers […]

Vetting the Vote: Gun Sanity

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

As if we need to be reminded of the preponderance of guns and gun-related violence on our streets, we’ve had served up for us in the closing days before the midterm elections the deadliest attack on the Jewish community in this nation’s history. A lone gunman on Oct. 27 shot and killed 11 Sabbath worshippers […]

The Border as War

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Sermon delivered by Council Governing Board member Isaac S. Villegas on May 28, 2018. Coming and going, leaving and arriving, exit and entrance. That’s the theme permeating these verse from Exodus 19. Departures and arrivals, the movement of people as they leave one land for another—wandering and camping their way to new life. On the […]

The Border as War

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Sermon delivered by Council Governing Board member Isaac S. Villegas on May 28, 2018. Coming and going, leaving and arriving, exit and entrance. That’s the theme permeating these verse from Exodus 19. Departures and arrivals, the movement of people as they leave one land for another—wandering and camping their way to new life. On the […]

Raleigh Report — May 30, 2018

By North Carolina Council of Churches

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director The North Carolina General Assembly re-convened for its 2018 “short session” on Wednesday, May 16. Under terms of last year’s adjournment resolution, the General Assembly can take up only a limited selection of bills, including: bills related to the 2018-19 budget, bills passed by one house before last year’s […]

Raleigh Report — May 30, 2018

by North Carolina Council of Churches

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director The North Carolina General Assembly re-convened for its 2018 “short session” on Wednesday, May 16. Under terms of last year’s adjournment resolution, the General Assembly can take up only a limited selection of bills, including: bills related to the 2018-19 budget, bills passed by one house before last year’s […]

Violence and Guns

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered at the Community Conversation on Gun Violence on May 15, 2018 at Wake Forest Presbyterian Church. God knows that we are a violent people. It’s been this way since Cain killed Abel because Cain was jealous and afraid. Jealousy and fear drive most of our violence. That’s why you hear so many people […]

Violence and Guns

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered at the Community Conversation on Gun Violence on May 15, 2018 at Wake Forest Presbyterian Church. God knows that we are a violent people. It’s been this way since Cain killed Abel because Cain was jealous and afraid. Jealousy and fear drive most of our violence. That’s why you hear so many people […]

The Second Commandment

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

When the news broke about the North Carolina Council of Churches billboard suggesting a connection between guns and idolatry, responses ran from, “Thank you for naming the truth,” to “How dare you claim owning a gun means worshiping an idol.” And everything in between, not always in language you would print where children might see […]

The Second Commandment

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

When the news broke about the North Carolina Council of Churches billboard suggesting a connection between guns and idolatry, responses ran from, “Thank you for naming the truth,” to “How dare you claim owning a gun means worshiping an idol.” And everything in between, not always in language you would print where children might see […]

Council Posts Billboard about Gun Violence

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

On your drive along I-85/40 outside of Mebane, look for our billboard on the side of the road. It will go up this week and stay in place for the next four weeks, another crucial message for all of us while gun violence continues to erupt all around. While amendments and policies related to gun […]

Council Posts Billboard about Gun Violence

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

On your drive along I-85/40 outside of Mebane, look for our billboard on the side of the road. It will go up this week and stay in place for the next four weeks, another crucial message for all of us while gun violence continues to erupt all around. While amendments and policies related to gun […]

It’s Only 40 Days

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sermon delivered by Jennifer Copeland yesterday, Sunday, February 18 at Millford Hills United Methodist Church in Salisbury, NC. The lectionary texts were Genesis 9:8-17 and Mark 1:9-15. 40 days–rain! 40 days–wilderness! Noah and rainbows; Jesus and temptation. 40 is an important number in our faith tradition. There were 40 years in the wilderness for Moses […]

It’s Only 40 Days

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sermon delivered by Jennifer Copeland yesterday, Sunday, February 18 at Millford Hills United Methodist Church in Salisbury, NC. The lectionary texts were Genesis 9:8-17 and Mark 1:9-15. 40 days–rain! 40 days–wilderness! Noah and rainbows; Jesus and temptation. 40 is an important number in our faith tradition. There were 40 years in the wilderness for Moses […]

What More Can Be Said?

By Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

Powerful voices have long narrated the story of guns in America. The media. The NRA. Outraged, livid, grief-stricken mothers and fathers. When it comes to the horror of mass shootings, the stories are told with images and words that sear into our brains: limp bodies, the cries of parents, eulogies, and an NRA Valentine’s advertisement […]

What More Can Be Said?

by Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

Powerful voices have long narrated the story of guns in America. The media. The NRA. Outraged, livid, grief-stricken mothers and fathers. When it comes to the horror of mass shootings, the stories are told with images and words that sear into our brains: limp bodies, the cries of parents, eulogies, and an NRA Valentine’s advertisement […]

Vigil to End Gun Violence

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

This is my favorite time of the year. I’m a sap about all of it. I love decorating the house, seeing the lights downtown, the music, getting cozy with a blanket and a good book, and spending extra time with the people I care about the most. As the old Christmas song goes, “it’s the […]

Vigil to End Gun Violence

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

This is my favorite time of the year. I’m a sap about all of it. I love decorating the house, seeing the lights downtown, the music, getting cozy with a blanket and a good book, and spending extra time with the people I care about the most. As the old Christmas song goes, “it’s the […]

Executive Director Jennifer Copeland Receives Award from North Carolinians Against Gun Violence

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director of the North Carolina Council of Churches, and Beth Messersmith,  North Carolina Campaign Director for MomsRising, received the 2017 Effie Steele Award from North Carolinians Against Gun Violence. Effie Steele was a tireless advocate for gun violence prevention after her daughter and unborn grandson were murdered in a domestic violence dispute. […]

Executive Director Jennifer Copeland Receives Award from North Carolinians Against Gun Violence

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director of the North Carolina Council of Churches, and Beth Messersmith,  North Carolina Campaign Director for MomsRising, received the 2017 Effie Steele Award from North Carolinians Against Gun Violence. Effie Steele was a tireless advocate for gun violence prevention after her daughter and unborn grandson were murdered in a domestic violence dispute. […]

Creating Peace

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

If we are not angry today, we have no faith. If we are not frustrated today, we have no hope. If we are not bereaved today, we have no love. As Christians, we claim faith, hope, and love as foundational elements for our identity (I Corinthians 13:13). Our faith in God’s good gifts should cause […]

Creating Peace

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

If we are not angry today, we have no faith. If we are not frustrated today, we have no hope. If we are not bereaved today, we have no love. As Christians, we claim faith, hope, and love as foundational elements for our identity (I Corinthians 13:13). Our faith in God’s good gifts should cause […]

Lament for Las Vegas

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

There are no words… and so my words come from the Psalms where laments make up the largest category. This lament from a portion of Psalm 142: With my voice I cry out to the LORD;     with my voice I plead for mercy to the LORD. I pour out my complaint before him;     I tell […]

Lament for Las Vegas

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

There are no words… and so my words come from the Psalms where laments make up the largest category. This lament from a portion of Psalm 142: With my voice I cry out to the LORD;     with my voice I plead for mercy to the LORD. I pour out my complaint before him;     I tell […]

Our Unceasing Prayer Must Be for Peace

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The tragedy of gun violence in this country seems unending. We pray for those impacted, whether in a South Carolina church two years ago, a Florida club one year ago, or on a Virginia baseball field today, and in all of the other times and places where lives have been shattered. The Council of Churches […]

Our Unceasing Prayer Must Be for Peace

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The tragedy of gun violence in this country seems unending. We pray for those impacted, whether in a South Carolina church two years ago, a Florida club one year ago, or on a Virginia baseball field today, and in all of the other times and places where lives have been shattered. The Council of Churches […]

Update — GA Takes Up Dangerous Gun Law, June 7

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Representatives in the General  Assembly are scheduled to take up H.B. 746 this afternoon. Calls are still needed against this bill. As our friends at NC Policy Watch reported, the North Carolina Association of Police Chiefs and others in law enforcement have come out again H.B. 746 because of their concerns for public safety. Their […]

Update — GA Takes Up Dangerous Gun Law, June 7

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Representatives in the General  Assembly are scheduled to take up H.B. 746 this afternoon. Calls are still needed against this bill. As our friends at NC Policy Watch reported, the North Carolina Association of Police Chiefs and others in law enforcement have come out again H.B. 746 because of their concerns for public safety. Their […]

Gun Bill Advances in GA; National Gun Violence Awareness Day is June 2

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Consider the shame of the North Carolina General Assembly working to rush through a bill that weakens gun laws as National Gun Violence Awareness Day approaches. It is right up there with a billboard vilifying Muslims displayed during Ramadan. Both are disturbing enough on their own, but the timing somehow makes them feel even worse. […]

Gun Bill Advances in GA; National Gun Violence Awareness Day is June 2

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Consider the shame of the North Carolina General Assembly working to rush through a bill that weakens gun laws as National Gun Violence Awareness Day approaches. It is right up there with a billboard vilifying Muslims displayed during Ramadan. Both are disturbing enough on their own, but the timing somehow makes them feel even worse. […]

Action Alert: May 31, 2017 — GA May Act on Guns

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As was feared, some members of the General Assembly may be bringing back legislation that would roll back existing gun safety laws. A version of the previously introduced H.B. 746 is scheduled to be heard in the House Judiciary IV committee on Wednesday. A new version of the bill would likely eliminate North Carolina’s pistol […]

Action Alert: May 31, 2017 — GA May Act on Guns

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As was feared, some members of the General Assembly may be bringing back legislation that would roll back existing gun safety laws. A version of the previously introduced H.B. 746 is scheduled to be heard in the House Judiciary IV committee on Wednesday. A new version of the bill would likely eliminate North Carolina’s pistol […]

2017 Stand Up Sabbath — June 16-18

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

About this time two years ago, I accepted the offer to become the next Executive Director of the NC Council of Churches. We agreed that I would spend two weeks with the outgoing ED in June learning the ropes, and then I would really get to work in August. My first day in the office […]

2017 Stand Up Sabbath — June 16-18

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

About this time two years ago, I accepted the offer to become the next Executive Director of the NC Council of Churches. We agreed that I would spend two weeks with the outgoing ED in June learning the ropes, and then I would really get to work in August. My first day in the office […]

Raleigh Report — April 26, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [The deadlines for the introduction of most new bills have now passed, and we are in Crossover Week. By the end of the week, most non-money bills (i.e., not taxes, fees, or appropriations) must have passed one house in order to remain alive for this session. There are exceptions, […]

Raleigh Report — April 26, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [The deadlines for the introduction of most new bills have now passed, and we are in Crossover Week. By the end of the week, most non-money bills (i.e., not taxes, fees, or appropriations) must have passed one house in order to remain alive for this session. There are exceptions, […]

Guns on Campus Are a Bad Idea

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Two of the most volatile elements on a college campus are alcohol and hormones. These ingredients contribute to sexual assault (23.1 percent of female and 5.4 percent of male undergraduates), property destruction (50 percent of college administrators from schools with high drinking levels say their campuses have a problem with alcohol-related property damage), and poor […]

Guns on Campus Are a Bad Idea

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Two of the most volatile elements on a college campus are alcohol and hormones. These ingredients contribute to sexual assault (23.1 percent of female and 5.4 percent of male undergraduates), property destruction (50 percent of college administrators from schools with high drinking levels say their campuses have a problem with alcohol-related property damage), and poor […]

Raleigh Report — April 21, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [For the latest committee referrals and re-referrals, go to the General Assembly website www.ncleg.net. There you can also find the texts of bills, procedural histories, and recorded votes.] Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES H 727, Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights, would add a lengthy and detailed amendment to the […]

Raleigh Report — April 21, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [For the latest committee referrals and re-referrals, go to the General Assembly website www.ncleg.net. There you can also find the texts of bills, procedural histories, and recorded votes.] Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES H 727, Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights, would add a lengthy and detailed amendment to the […]

Raleigh Report — April 17, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES H 540, Teachers & State Employees Pay Raise, would give annual raises of $2,400 to teachers and other state employees making less than $100,000/year. The bill would appropriate more than $700 million for the first year of these raises. Introduced by Reps. Malone […]

Raleigh Report — April 17, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES H 540, Teachers & State Employees Pay Raise, would give annual raises of $2,400 to teachers and other state employees making less than $100,000/year. The bill would appropriate more than $700 million for the first year of these raises. Introduced by Reps. Malone […]

Raleigh Report — April 10, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Bills are being introduced at a rapid pace as the Senate’s deadline for new bills has passed and the House’s deadline on non-money approaches. This Raleigh Report and another one later in the week will try to catch up with the flood of bills. Newly Introduced Bills CHILDREN AND […]

Raleigh Report — April 10, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Bills are being introduced at a rapid pace as the Senate’s deadline for new bills has passed and the House’s deadline on non-money approaches. This Raleigh Report and another one later in the week will try to catch up with the flood of bills. Newly Introduced Bills CHILDREN AND […]

Action Needed Before Monday Night on Guns in Places of Worship

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our friends at North Carolinians Against Gun Violence have issued the alert below. Please note that it requires action before this evening, Monday, March 27. _________________________________________________________________________ We are continuing to try and stop the expansion of guns in congregations that share a space with schools. HB 174 will be on the floor this Monday night. […]

Action Needed Before Monday Night on Guns in Places of Worship

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our friends at North Carolinians Against Gun Violence have issued the alert below. Please note that it requires action before this evening, Monday, March 27. _________________________________________________________________________ We are continuing to try and stop the expansion of guns in congregations that share a space with schools. HB 174 will be on the floor this Monday night. […]

Raleigh Report — March 26, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXATION H 356, Tax Reduction Act of 2017, would increase the standard deduction for state income taxes from $17,500 to $18,500 for married/filing jointly, and by comparable amounts for other tax statuses. Introduced by Reps. Szoka (R-Cumberland), Saine (R-Lincolnton), Brawley (R-Matthews), and S. Martin […]

Raleigh Report — March 26, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXATION H 356, Tax Reduction Act of 2017, would increase the standard deduction for state income taxes from $17,500 to $18,500 for married/filing jointly, and by comparable amounts for other tax statuses. Introduced by Reps. Szoka (R-Cumberland), Saine (R-Lincolnton), Brawley (R-Matthews), and S. Martin […]

Raleigh Report — March 21, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXATION HB 329, Home School Education Tax Credit, would give a $1,250-per-student-per-semester income tax credit to the parents of children being home schooled. Introduced by Reps. Pitman (R-Concord), Boswell (R-Kill Devil Hills), and Brody (R-Monroe). Referred to House Education—K-12 and, if favorable, to House […]

Raleigh Report — March 21, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXATION HB 329, Home School Education Tax Credit, would give a $1,250-per-student-per-semester income tax credit to the parents of children being home schooled. Introduced by Reps. Pitman (R-Concord), Boswell (R-Kill Devil Hills), and Brody (R-Monroe). Referred to House Education—K-12 and, if favorable, to House […]

Raleigh Report — March 7, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES S 147, Reenact School Sales Tax Holiday. The school sales tax holiday was a three-day weekend shortly before the start of school each August during which sales taxes were not collected on a variety of school-related supplies, including some big-ticket items like computers. […]

Raleigh Report — March 7, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES S 147, Reenact School Sales Tax Holiday. The school sales tax holiday was a three-day weekend shortly before the start of school each August during which sales taxes were not collected on a variety of school-related supplies, including some big-ticket items like computers. […]

Raleigh Report — February 28, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills ENVIRONMENTAL CARE H 171, Change Exclusion for Solar Energy Systems. Current law provides an 80% exclusion from property taxation for the value of a solar electric system, defined as “all equipment used directly and exclusively for the conversion of solar energy to electricity.” H 171 would […]

Raleigh Report — February 28, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills ENVIRONMENTAL CARE H 171, Change Exclusion for Solar Energy Systems. Current law provides an 80% exclusion from property taxation for the value of a solar electric system, defined as “all equipment used directly and exclusively for the conversion of solar energy to electricity.” H 171 would […]

Raleigh Report — February 20, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES S 75, Constitutional Amendment – Maximum Income Tax Rate of 5.5%. The Constitution currently sets a maximum rate for income tax at 10%. S 75, which would have to be approved by voters, would lower that maximum to 5.5%. (Currently the flat rate […]

Raleigh Report — February 20, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES S 75, Constitutional Amendment – Maximum Income Tax Rate of 5.5%. The Constitution currently sets a maximum rate for income tax at 10%. S 75, which would have to be approved by voters, would lower that maximum to 5.5%. (Currently the flat rate […]

Whispers and Shouts

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 strangers, all created in the same image. Or through the aftermath of a cataclysmic election. Lately, the lectionary readings have provided desperately needed whispers for […]

Whispers and Shouts

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 strangers, all created in the same image. Or through the aftermath of a cataclysmic election. Lately, the lectionary readings have provided desperately needed whispers for […]

The Threat is not from Immigrants and Refugees

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council has had a busy weekend. Much of the staff was helping with the Beyond Gun Violence Conference at United Church of Chapel Hill, but we also had folks at the Duke Divinity School event on embodying sanctuary. Both had been in the works for some time but occurred, by chance, on the heels […]

The Threat is not from Immigrants and Refugees

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council has had a busy weekend. Much of the staff was helping with the Beyond Gun Violence Conference at United Church of Chapel Hill, but we also had folks at the Duke Divinity School event on embodying sanctuary. Both had been in the works for some time but occurred, by chance, on the heels […]

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

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 it forecasts. One of the crucial facts he offered — those of us opposed to the policies, personalities, and vicious rhetoric of the current administration […]

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

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 it forecasts. One of the crucial facts he offered — those of us opposed to the policies, personalities, and vicious rhetoric of the current administration […]

Let’s Keep Marching

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 shoulder with a half million others. But there I was, pink hat and all. I chose to be there because my grandmother cleaned other people’s […]

Let’s Keep Marching

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 shoulder with a half million others. But there I was, pink hat and all. I chose to be there because my grandmother cleaned other people’s […]

Moving Beyond Gun Violence

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Two weeks ago I flew to Florida for a national gathering of state ecumenical leaders and a few days later I flew home.  In between my landing and leaving, in a different Florida airport (into which I have also flown many times), a passenger retrieved his baggage, assembled and loaded the gun he had brought […]

Moving Beyond Gun Violence

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Two weeks ago I flew to Florida for a national gathering of state ecumenical leaders and a few days later I flew home.  In between my landing and leaving, in a different Florida airport (into which I have also flown many times), a passenger retrieved his baggage, assembled and loaded the gun he had brought […]

A Letter to President Trump

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 United States. True, my ancestors tried to secede from the union in 1861, but the ancestors of others prevailed against them and kept us together. […]

A Letter to President Trump

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 United States. True, my ancestors tried to secede from the union in 1861, but the ancestors of others prevailed against them and kept us together. […]

Speak Out on Cabinet Nominees

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 & Light, MomsRising, Faith in Public Life, and the National Council of Churches are just some of the organizations calling on people of conscience to speak […]

Speak Out on Cabinet Nominees

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 & Light, MomsRising, Faith in Public Life, and the National Council of Churches are just some of the organizations calling on people of conscience to speak […]

Beyond Gun Violence: A Conference for People of Faith and Conscience About Ending America’s Deadly Epidemic

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Join us one month from today for a weekend of preaching and teaching about the cost of gun violence to our nation and how we can bring about change. Speakers will include: ·         Matthew Crebbin, Senior Minister of Newtown Congregational Church (UCC) ·         Mark Carman, American Coalition for Responsible Gun Ownership ·         James Atwood, theologian […]

Beyond Gun Violence: A Conference for People of Faith and Conscience About Ending America’s Deadly Epidemic

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Join us one month from today for a weekend of preaching and teaching about the cost of gun violence to our nation and how we can bring about change. Speakers will include: ·         Matthew Crebbin, Senior Minister of Newtown Congregational Church (UCC) ·         Mark Carman, American Coalition for Responsible Gun Ownership ·         James Atwood, theologian […]

The Council Welcomes Your End-of-Year Gift

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 1935 out of the recognition that racial segregation was antithetical to Christ’s teachings. Since that time, the Council’s work has expanded to include issues ranging […]

The Council Welcomes Your End-of-Year Gift

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 1935 out of the recognition that racial segregation was antithetical to Christ’s teachings. Since that time, the Council’s work has expanded to include issues ranging […]

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

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, and peaceful society. Our faith calls us to love one another, protect the vulnerable, and work together toward a beloved community. We continue to be […]

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

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, and peaceful society. Our faith calls us to love one another, protect the vulnerable, and work together toward a beloved community. We continue to be […]

Advent Guide Focuses on Peace

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 in many ways – in how we relate to one another, in the policies our elected officials put in place, in who has enough. For […]

Advent Guide Focuses on Peace

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 in many ways – in how we relate to one another, in the policies our elected officials put in place, in who has enough. For […]

Separating Church and Hate Since 1935

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 to welcome our immigrant sisters and brothers, care for creation, work for economic justice and voting rights, build toward Christian unity and interfaith understanding, teach […]

Separating Church and Hate Since 1935

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 to welcome our immigrant sisters and brothers, care for creation, work for economic justice and voting rights, build toward Christian unity and interfaith understanding, teach […]

Speak Peace

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered on September 21 by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a press conference marking the International Day of Peace. Words make a world. The words we use become embedded in the ways we think about the world around us. So, we have bullet points, target dates, and killer ideas. We shoot emails, fire off […]

Speak Peace

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered on September 21 by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a press conference marking the International Day of Peace. Words make a world. The words we use become embedded in the ways we think about the world around us. So, we have bullet points, target dates, and killer ideas. We shoot emails, fire off […]

Sore Afraid

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

We are “sore afraid.” But not like the shepherds in the hills around Bethlehem on the night angels proclaimed the birth of Jesus. The angels assuaged their fears with Good News about a savior, but who will assuage our fears about the news from Charlotte, Tulsa, Dallas, Baton Rouge, Chicago, Ferguson, Baltimore, New York, … ? We […]

Sore Afraid

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

We are “sore afraid.” But not like the shepherds in the hills around Bethlehem on the night angels proclaimed the birth of Jesus. The angels assuaged their fears with Good News about a savior, but who will assuage our fears about the news from Charlotte, Tulsa, Dallas, Baton Rouge, Chicago, Ferguson, Baltimore, New York, … ? We […]

Gun Violence and Public Health

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

New York City’s Health Commissioner, Dr. Mary Bassett, recently published a blog on the Huffington Post about Gun Violence as a public health issue. It is essential that we pay attention to this important aspect of the conversation about common sense gun control legislation. As Dr. Bassett states: “The mission of public health is to […]

Gun Violence and Public Health

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

New York City’s Health Commissioner, Dr. Mary Bassett, recently published a blog on the Huffington Post about Gun Violence as a public health issue. It is essential that we pay attention to this important aspect of the conversation about common sense gun control legislation. As Dr. Bassett states: “The mission of public health is to […]

Appealing to our Shared Humanity in Response to Civil Unrest

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

By Fady Hanna, Duke Divinity School Intern This week our nation has again experienced the inevitable results of living with the factions and fears that plague us. Three shootings in three days, right on the heels of the commemoration of our independence as a nation, each shooting horrific and tragic in its own right. We, […]

Appealing to our Shared Humanity in Response to Civil Unrest

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

By Fady Hanna, Duke Divinity School Intern This week our nation has again experienced the inevitable results of living with the factions and fears that plague us. Three shootings in three days, right on the heels of the commemoration of our independence as a nation, each shooting horrific and tragic in its own right. We, […]

How Do We Respond?

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

After Sunday morning, no one can dispute we are under attack. The real attack, however, is not the one involving assault rifles like the ArmaLite Rifle – 15 (Yes, I know the “a” doesn’t stand for “assault” even though enabling assault is what the AR-15 does). The real attack is on our sense of being. […]

How Do We Respond?

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

After Sunday morning, no one can dispute we are under attack. The real attack, however, is not the one involving assault rifles like the ArmaLite Rifle – 15 (Yes, I know the “a” doesn’t stand for “assault” even though enabling assault is what the AR-15 does). The real attack is on our sense of being. […]

Pray for Orlando, Pray for Us All

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

In the coming days, there will be many questions about the who and why of the devastating tragedy in Orlando. What is not in question is how. Another hate-filled rampage made infinitely easier to execute because of a gun. And so, again, we call on people of faith to hold those killed, injured, or otherwise […]

Pray for Orlando, Pray for Us All

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

In the coming days, there will be many questions about the who and why of the devastating tragedy in Orlando. What is not in question is how. Another hate-filled rampage made infinitely easier to execute because of a gun. And so, again, we call on people of faith to hold those killed, injured, or otherwise […]

Standing Together Against Gun Violence

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks from a June 2 press conference recognizing Wear Orange Against Gun Violence Day. Last fall, we at the NC Council of Churches, invited all the organizations we know who are working for gun safety to join us for one big conversation. Since that time, we’ve discovered even more allies and with them have begun a […]

Standing Together Against Gun Violence

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks from a June 2 press conference recognizing Wear Orange Against Gun Violence Day. Last fall, we at the NC Council of Churches, invited all the organizations we know who are working for gun safety to join us for one big conversation. Since that time, we’ve discovered even more allies and with them have begun a […]

Gun Violence Prevention: New Web Page, Stand Up Sabbath

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

NC advocates in orange at the General Assembly last year. Photo provided by Beth Messersmith, NC Campaign Director, MomsRising. Less than a month ago, our middle son sat with his classmates under a brilliant Carolina sun, their commencement robes the color of the sky. Six days ago, he set out driving cross country with three friends on […]

Gun Violence Prevention: New Web Page, Stand Up Sabbath

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

NC advocates in orange at the General Assembly last year. Photo provided by Beth Messersmith, NC Campaign Director, MomsRising. Less than a month ago, our middle son sat with his classmates under a brilliant Carolina sun, their commencement robes the color of the sky. Six days ago, he set out driving cross country with three friends on […]

Stand-Up Sabbath Against Gun Violence, June 17-19

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

According to the news reports, it all started over a place on a pew. One parishioner sat in someone else’s spot and then objected to moving. Another flashed his legally carried concealed weapon, apparently as an incentive to settle down his fellow church-goer. But it didn’t work that way, and a 27-year-old was shot to […]

Stand-Up Sabbath Against Gun Violence, June 17-19

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

According to the news reports, it all started over a place on a pew. One parishioner sat in someone else’s spot and then objected to moving. Another flashed his legally carried concealed weapon, apparently as an incentive to settle down his fellow church-goer. But it didn’t work that way, and a 27-year-old was shot to […]

Tenth Annual HKonJ is February 13

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; gather and rally is at 8:30 a.m. and the march begins at 10 a.m. Participants can meet across the street from Raleigh Memorial Auditorium at […]

Tenth Annual HKonJ is February 13

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; gather and rally is at 8:30 a.m. and the march begins at 10 a.m. Participants can meet across the street from Raleigh Memorial Auditorium at […]

2015: Our Conservatives Weren’t Kidding

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 amounted to yet another slog down a disappointing path. It was the third full year since conservative Republicans completed their takeover of power […]

2015: Our Conservatives Weren’t Kidding

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 amounted to yet another slog down a disappointing path. It was the third full year since conservative Republicans completed their takeover of power […]

Candlelight Vigil Marks Losses to Gun Violence

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Dozens of people gathered at Durham’s Judea Reform Congregation  on the evening of December 10 to mark lives lost or forever changed by gun violence. Speakers shared personal stories and held up ways elected leaders could and should make everyone safer through sensible measures. In her remarks to those who attended the candlelight vigil, Council Executive […]

Candlelight Vigil Marks Losses to Gun Violence

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Dozens of people gathered at Durham’s Judea Reform Congregation  on the evening of December 10 to mark lives lost or forever changed by gun violence. Speakers shared personal stories and held up ways elected leaders could and should make everyone safer through sensible measures. In her remarks to those who attended the candlelight vigil, Council Executive […]

Let Us Reason Together — Vigil Against Gun Violence 12/10

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

December 10, 7 p.m. Judea Reform Congregation 1933 West Cornwallis Road, Durham The NC Council of Churches, partnering with North Carolinians Against Gun Violence and the League of Women Voters, will host a Candlelight Vigil to Remember the Victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School in December 2012. This is especially timely for the Council. Recently […]

Let Us Reason Together — Vigil Against Gun Violence 12/10

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

December 10, 7 p.m. Judea Reform Congregation 1933 West Cornwallis Road, Durham The NC Council of Churches, partnering with North Carolinians Against Gun Violence and the League of Women Voters, will host a Candlelight Vigil to Remember the Victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School in December 2012. This is especially timely for the Council. Recently […]

Interfaith Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath Weekend, December 10-14

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Faiths United Against Gun Violence and Washington National Cathedral are working together to have congregations and faith communities across the U.S. recognize December 10 through 14 as Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath Weekend. Along with the opportunity to pledge your congregation’s participation, their website features resources and materials to help educate, advocate, and plan. In North Carolina, […]

Interfaith Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath Weekend, December 10-14

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Faiths United Against Gun Violence and Washington National Cathedral are working together to have congregations and faith communities across the U.S. recognize December 10 through 14 as Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath Weekend. Along with the opportunity to pledge your congregation’s participation, their website features resources and materials to help educate, advocate, and plan. In North Carolina, […]

‘We stand adjourned’ – finally!

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 come down. There’s been enough damage. But as if our illustrious lawmakers wanted to give us the worst of both worlds, the session’s climactic phase […]

‘We stand adjourned’ – finally!

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 come down. There’s been enough damage. But as if our illustrious lawmakers wanted to give us the worst of both worlds, the session’s climactic phase […]

The Path Beyond Gun Violence

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For those of us who believe in a merciful God, days like this are particularly hard. The unimaginable violence in Oregon follows similar tragedies in South Carolina, Virginia, Colorado, Connecticut, more places than I can list. Why does that not shame us into action? The worship of unrestricted gun ownership has become a false idol […]

The Path Beyond Gun Violence

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For those of us who believe in a merciful God, days like this are particularly hard. The unimaginable violence in Oregon follows similar tragedies in South Carolina, Virginia, Colorado, Connecticut, more places than I can list. Why does that not shame us into action? The worship of unrestricted gun ownership has become a false idol […]

Standin’ in the Need of Prayer

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Raleigh’s Martin Street Baptist Church (historically African-American) and Pullen Memorial Baptist Church (historically white) have a partnership that has extended over more than two decades. It grew out of the personal friendship of former pastors David Forbes and Mahan Siler. Both of them, by the way, have been leaders in the Council over the years, with […]

Standin’ in the Need of Prayer

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Raleigh’s Martin Street Baptist Church (historically African-American) and Pullen Memorial Baptist Church (historically white) have a partnership that has extended over more than two decades. It grew out of the personal friendship of former pastors David Forbes and Mahan Siler. Both of them, by the way, have been leaders in the Council over the years, with […]

Scrutiny for Gun Laws, Post-Charleston

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Their timing, as it turned out, was less than impeccable. The gun-rights boosters who are pushing N.C. House Bill 562 ran up against some common-sense objections that resulted in two main elements being stripped from the bill. But more than that, later on the very evening when the bill gained final House passage, the folly of […]

Scrutiny for Gun Laws, Post-Charleston

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Their timing, as it turned out, was less than impeccable. The gun-rights boosters who are pushing N.C. House Bill 562 ran up against some common-sense objections that resulted in two main elements being stripped from the bill. But more than that, later on the very evening when the bill gained final House passage, the folly of […]

Statement on the Shootings in Charleston

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

With people across the world, the North Carolina Council of Churches grieves with the congregation of Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, SC. This kind of violence against people of faith in other parts of the world has recently and rightfully been called terrorism. Indeed, the people of Emanuel AME have experienced a terrorist […]

Statement on the Shootings in Charleston

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

With people across the world, the North Carolina Council of Churches grieves with the congregation of Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, SC. This kind of violence against people of faith in other parts of the world has recently and rightfully been called terrorism. Indeed, the people of Emanuel AME have experienced a terrorist […]

Veto Overriders Flex Their Muscles

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina’s General Assembly has muddled through many undistinguished moments since conservative Republicans took charge four years ago. Now, with an ongoing cascade of wrongheaded decisions, it’s adding to that disappointing and even destructive list. Gov. Pat McCrory, also a Republican but one who wants to be seen as more of a moderate, relatively speaking, […]

Veto Overriders Flex Their Muscles

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina’s General Assembly has muddled through many undistinguished moments since conservative Republicans took charge four years ago. Now, with an ongoing cascade of wrongheaded decisions, it’s adding to that disappointing and even destructive list. Gov. Pat McCrory, also a Republican but one who wants to be seen as more of a moderate, relatively speaking, […]

At the Legislature, a Fateful Crossing

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 session. A bill that makes the deadline by gaining approval in either the state House or Senate stays alive – for better, or as happens […]

At the Legislature, a Fateful Crossing

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 session. A bill that makes the deadline by gaining approval in either the state House or Senate stays alive – for better, or as happens […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

Tragic Combination: Guns and Mental Illness

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Let’s hope this isn’t the case, but recent history suggests that President Obama is not done with a duty that surely is among the most difficult and heart-wrenching aspects of his job. When groups of innocent Americans are gunned down in the all-too-familiar pattern we refer to as mass shootings, the president – whether Obama […]

Tragic Combination: Guns and Mental Illness

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Let’s hope this isn’t the case, but recent history suggests that President Obama is not done with a duty that surely is among the most difficult and heart-wrenching aspects of his job. When groups of innocent Americans are gunned down in the all-too-familiar pattern we refer to as mass shootings, the president – whether Obama […]

Worship Resources on Gun Violence

By chris

Date: Proper 26 - Nov. 3, 2013
Topic: Gun Violence
Focus Text: Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4
What poverty of spirit causes Americans to so glorify their guns – in movies, on television, in video games, on the streets of our neighborhoods and in the halls of Congress? Where are the prophets who will condemn the religion of the second amendment which preaches a sacred right to own any and all kinds of firearms? Why are people of faith and conscience not protecting the sacred trust of children’s lives as vehemently as Congress protects the gun lobby? It is time for pastors, priests, rabbis, and imams to speak out against the blasphemy of gun violence.

Worship Resources on Gun Violence

by chris

Date: Proper 26 – Nov. 3, 2013
Topic: Gun Violence
Focus Text: Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4
What poverty of spirit causes Americans to so glorify their guns – in movies, on television, in video games, on the streets of our neighborhoods and in the halls of Congress? Where are the prophets who will condemn the religion of the second amendment which preaches a sacred right to own any and all kinds of firearms? Why are people of faith and conscience not protecting the sacred trust of children’s lives as vehemently as Congress protects the gun lobby? It is time for pastors, priests, rabbis, and imams to speak out against the blasphemy of gun violence.

Call Legislative Leaders About Gun Measures

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We will never know if George Zimmerman would ever have gotten out of his car if he hadn’t had a gun. We do know that countless children of God have died in the last year alone because of gun violence. More guns and easier access to them do not inherently make us safer. Gail Neely […]

Call Legislative Leaders About Gun Measures

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We will never know if George Zimmerman would ever have gotten out of his car if he hadn’t had a gun. We do know that countless children of God have died in the last year alone because of gun violence. More guns and easier access to them do not inherently make us safer. Gail Neely […]

Arizona-like Immigration Bill Introduced: Raleigh Report, May 3, 2013

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

House Bills Senate Bills Notable Quotes Arizona-like Immigration Bill Introduced In the wake of failed attempts by Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform, states and localities have increased their own efforts to enforce current immigration laws and to implement new programs designed to reduce immigration. Many of these efforts have created a more hostile environment […]

Arizona-like Immigration Bill Introduced: Raleigh Report, May 3, 2013

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

House Bills Senate Bills Notable Quotes Arizona-like Immigration Bill Introduced In the wake of failed attempts by Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform, states and localities have increased their own efforts to enforce current immigration laws and to implement new programs designed to reduce immigration. Many of these efforts have created a more hostile environment […]

NC Council of Churches Supports National Groups to Assist the Less Fortunate

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

In keeping with its mission of supporting peace, unity and social justice, the Council recently has signed on to three letters involving issues being addressed at the federal level. We have spoken out for a faithful budget, for preserving low-income tax credits, and for gun violence prevention and school safety. The call for a faithful […]

NC Council of Churches Supports National Groups to Assist the Less Fortunate

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

In keeping with its mission of supporting peace, unity and social justice, the Council recently has signed on to three letters involving issues being addressed at the federal level. We have spoken out for a faithful budget, for preserving low-income tax credits, and for gun violence prevention and school safety. The call for a faithful […]

Deadlines Pass – Raleigh Report April 22, 2013

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

With the passage of deadlines for the introduction of most bills, there’s been a flurry of new legislation. This issue of Raleigh Report will cover some of these new bills, with others to come in the next issue.

Deadlines Pass – Raleigh Report April 22, 2013

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

With the passage of deadlines for the introduction of most bills, there’s been a flurry of new legislation. This issue of Raleigh Report will cover some of these new bills, with others to come in the next issue.

Believing in Goodness and Mercy After a Very Hard Week

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

It has been a difficult week for anyone who lives from a place of compassion. For people of faith who believe in a kind and loving God and who may recently have celebrated the resurrection of the Prince of Peace, the tragedies have seemed endless. Horror in Boston, devastation in Texas, decisions around gun violence […]

Believing in Goodness and Mercy After a Very Hard Week

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

It has been a difficult week for anyone who lives from a place of compassion. For people of faith who believe in a kind and loving God and who may recently have celebrated the resurrection of the Prince of Peace, the tragedies have seemed endless. Horror in Boston, devastation in Texas, decisions around gun violence […]

Interfaith Call-in Day to Prevent Gun Violence April 9

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The National Council of Churches, Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, and others are sponsoring an Interfaith Call-in Day to ensure that the voices of faithful Americans are heard throughout the halls of Congress on April 9. You can call NC Senators Hagan and Burr at 1-888-897-0174 and urge them to act to prevent gun violence. As […]

Interfaith Call-in Day to Prevent Gun Violence April 9

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The National Council of Churches, Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, and others are sponsoring an Interfaith Call-in Day to ensure that the voices of faithful Americans are heard throughout the halls of Congress on April 9. You can call NC Senators Hagan and Burr at 1-888-897-0174 and urge them to act to prevent gun violence. As […]

U.S. Senate Expected to Take Up Gun Legislation

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Next week, the United States Senate is expected to take up legislation intended to curb gun violence. Given recent mass atrocities at the hands of gunmen along with the daily loss of life by those who turn to guns as a surrogate for civil disagreement, progress on the issue should be inevitable. But it’s not. Lobbying by groups like […]

U.S. Senate Expected to Take Up Gun Legislation

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Next week, the United States Senate is expected to take up legislation intended to curb gun violence. Given recent mass atrocities at the hands of gunmen along with the daily loss of life by those who turn to guns as a surrogate for civil disagreement, progress on the issue should be inevitable. But it’s not. Lobbying by groups like […]

Raleigh Report-Gun Bills Flood In

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Gun bills that extend the availability and use of guns flood the General Assembly.

Raleigh Report-Gun Bills Flood In

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Gun bills that extend the availability and use of guns flood the General Assembly.

Guns in Bars and Restaurants Before Subcommittee on March 20

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The folks at North Carolinians Against Gun Violence have called House Bill 17 a “Recipe for Disaster.” That about sums it up. This is the bill that would allow anyone with a concealed carry permit for a handgun to take that weapon into eating establishments, including those serving alcohol. That’s a boost for drinkers and diners who enjoy […]

Guns in Bars and Restaurants Before Subcommittee on March 20

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The folks at North Carolinians Against Gun Violence have called House Bill 17 a “Recipe for Disaster.” That about sums it up. This is the bill that would allow anyone with a concealed carry permit for a handgun to take that weapon into eating establishments, including those serving alcohol. That’s a boost for drinkers and diners who enjoy […]

Preparing the Way: The Price of Faithfulness

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

From the Palm Sunday chapter of Preparing the Way: A Social Justice Study for Lent. We’re offering this free resource to you and your congregation as we walk through the season of Lent together. Download the full PDF here. Scripture: Matthew 21:1-11 (NRSV) And when they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the Mount […]

Preparing the Way: The Price of Faithfulness

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

From the Palm Sunday chapter of Preparing the Way: A Social Justice Study for Lent. We’re offering this free resource to you and your congregation as we walk through the season of Lent together. Download the full PDF here. Scripture: Matthew 21:1-11 (NRSV) And when they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the Mount […]

National Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath — March 15-17

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

If ending gun violence were easy, nightmares like Sandy Hook would never happen. Young lives would not end on urban streets in a hail of bullets. We wouldn’t need to parse the difference between automatic and semi-automatic. Just as taking away guns does not inherently make us safe from harm, we need to move beyond the lie […]

National Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath — March 15-17

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

If ending gun violence were easy, nightmares like Sandy Hook would never happen. Young lives would not end on urban streets in a hail of bullets. We wouldn’t need to parse the difference between automatic and semi-automatic. Just as taking away guns does not inherently make us safe from harm, we need to move beyond the lie […]

Raleigh Report – February 25, 2013

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Attacks on Struggling North Carolinians Advance Medicaid Coverage Unemployment Insurance Earned Income Tax Credit Fracking Moratorium Gun Violence Raise the Age Refusing to Extend Medicaid Coverage SB 4, which would deny Medicaid coverage to more than a half million North Carolinians under the Affordable Care Act and also would put the state under a federal […]

Raleigh Report – February 25, 2013

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Attacks on Struggling North Carolinians Advance Medicaid Coverage Unemployment Insurance Earned Income Tax Credit Fracking Moratorium Gun Violence Raise the Age Refusing to Extend Medicaid Coverage SB 4, which would deny Medicaid coverage to more than a half million North Carolinians under the Affordable Care Act and also would put the state under a federal […]