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NC Council of Churches

NC Council of Churches

Strength in Unity, Peace through Justice

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Gun Violence

Press Conference in Response to Raleigh Mass Shooting

October 17, 2022 By Susannah Tuttle, NCIPL Director

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. […]

Press Conference in Response to Raleigh Mass Shooting

October 17, 2022 by Susannah Tuttle, NCIPL Director

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. […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence

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

October 14, 2022 · 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

October 14, 2022 · WRAL News Leave a Comment

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

Continue reading...

Filed Under: NCCC in the News Tagged With: Gun Violence

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

May 27, 2022 · 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 […]

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

May 27, 2022 · ABC 11 Leave a Comment

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 […]

Continue reading...

Filed Under: NCCC in the News Tagged With: Gun Violence

You Shall Not Make an Idol

April 25, 2022 By The 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 […]

You Shall Not Make an Idol

April 25, 2022 by The 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence

No to SB 43

January 5, 2022 By The 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 […]

No to SB 43

January 5, 2022 by The 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence

Building a Bridge: Community & Law Enforcement

September 14, 2020 By Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

Join us and the Apex, Cary, Holly Springs, Garner, Knightdale, Morrisville, Raleigh, and State Capitol Police Departments, and NC Highway Patrol for evening of information and conversation. This event will […]

Building a Bridge: Community & Law Enforcement

September 14, 2020 by Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

Join us and the Apex, Cary, Holly Springs, Garner, Knightdale, Morrisville, Raleigh, and State Capitol Police Departments, and NC Highway Patrol for evening of information and conversation. This event will […]

Tagged With: Good Government, Gun Violence

Extremism & Gun Violence: What are the Connections

August 27, 2020 By Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER. Join us and coalition partners as we continue the conversation on gun violence safety and prevention. This event will open with a presentation describing the connections […]

Extremism & Gun Violence: What are the Connections

August 27, 2020 by Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER. Join us and coalition partners as we continue the conversation on gun violence safety and prevention. This event will open with a presentation describing the connections […]

Tagged With: Civil Discourse, Good Government, Gun Violence

Gun Violence Prevention: The Work Goes On

November 18, 2019 By The 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 […]

Gun Violence Prevention: The Work Goes On

November 18, 2019 by The 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Good Government, Gun Violence

Guns, Medicaid, Gridlock

August 12, 2019 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 […]

Guns, Medicaid, Gridlock

August 12, 2019 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Good Government, Gun Violence, Medicaid, State Budget

Guns, Medicaid, Gridlock

August 12, 2019 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 […]

Guns, Medicaid, Gridlock

August 12, 2019 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Good Government, Gun Violence, Medicaid, State Budget

Staying Sane: Gun Laws that Work

June 17, 2019 By The 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 […]

Staying Sane: Gun Laws that Work

June 17, 2019 by The 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Good Government, Gun Violence

Raleigh Report – April 29, 2019

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 […]

Raleigh Report – April 29, 2019

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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Environment, Good Government, Gun Violence, Public Education

Raleigh Report – April 22, 2019

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 […]

Raleigh Report – April 22, 2019

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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Environment, Good Government, Gun Violence, Immigration, Public Education, Torture

Raleigh Report – April 11, 2019

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. […]

Raleigh Report – April 11, 2019

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. […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Environment, Good Government, Gun Violence, Immigration, Public Education, Redistricting

Raleigh Report – March 11, 2019

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 […]

Raleigh Report – March 11, 2019

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 […]

Filed Under: Raleigh Report Tagged With: Economic Justice, Good Government, Gun Violence, Human Rights, Immigration, Public Education

Gun Violence Prevention Summit

February 14, 2019 By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

According to the American Public Health Association, gun violence has become a major public health issue in the United States. More than 85,000 people are affected by gun-related injuries per […]

Gun Violence Prevention Summit

February 14, 2019 by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

According to the American Public Health Association, gun violence has become a major public health issue in the United States. More than 85,000 people are affected by gun-related injuries per […]

Tagged With: Gun Violence

JR x TIME: Guns in America Screening and Discussion

February 7, 2019 By Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

Join us at 21c Durham for an open discussion about gun ownership in America. Award-winning artist JR and TIME Magazine have created a video mural with interviews from people with […]

JR x TIME: Guns in America Screening and Discussion

February 7, 2019 by Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

Join us at 21c Durham for an open discussion about gun ownership in America. Award-winning artist JR and TIME Magazine have created a video mural with interviews from people with […]

Tagged With: Gun Violence

Vetting the Vote: Gun Sanity

November 1, 2018 By The 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 […]

Vetting the Vote: Gun Sanity

November 1, 2018 by The 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence, vettingthevote

Gun Violence Prevention Summit

October 18, 2018 By Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

According to the American Public Health Association, gun violence has become a major public health issues in the United States. More than 85,000 people are affected by gun-related injuries per […]

Gun Violence Prevention Summit

October 18, 2018 by Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

According to the American Public Health Association, gun violence has become a major public health issues in the United States. More than 85,000 people are affected by gun-related injuries per […]

Tagged With: Gun Violence

The Border as War

June 8, 2018 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 […]

The Border as War

June 8, 2018 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 […]

Filed Under: Sermons Tagged With: Gun Violence, Immigration, Peace

Raleigh Report — May 30, 2018

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 […]

Raleigh Report — May 30, 2018

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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Gun Violence, N.C. General Assembly, Public Education, State Budget

Violence and Guns

May 23, 2018 By The 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 […]

Violence and Guns

May 23, 2018 by The 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence

The Second Commandment

April 16, 2018 By The 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 […]

The Second Commandment

April 16, 2018 by The 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence

Council Posts Billboard about Gun Violence

April 5, 2018 By The 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 […]

Council Posts Billboard about Gun Violence

April 5, 2018 by The 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Council News, Gun Violence

It’s Only 40 Days

February 19, 2018 By The 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 […]

It’s Only 40 Days

February 19, 2018 by The 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Environment, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, Peace, Public Education

What More Can Be Said?

February 19, 2018 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, […]

What More Can Be Said?

February 19, 2018 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, […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence, Peace

Vigil to End Gun Violence

December 14, 2017 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 […]

Vigil to End Gun Violence

December 14, 2017 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence, Peace

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

December 14, 2017 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 […]

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

December 14, 2017 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Council News, Gun Violence, Peace

Vigil to End Gun Violence

November 20, 2017 By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Come together with others to remember the half a million Americans killed or injured by guns since the Sandy Hook shooting tragedy. Hundreds of events are being held at locations […]

Vigil to End Gun Violence

November 20, 2017 by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Come together with others to remember the half a million Americans killed or injured by guns since the Sandy Hook shooting tragedy. Hundreds of events are being held at locations […]

Tagged With: Gun Violence, Peace

Creating Peace

November 6, 2017 By The 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. […]

Creating Peace

November 6, 2017 by The 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. […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence, Peace

Lament for Las Vegas

October 2, 2017 By The 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 […]

Lament for Las Vegas

October 2, 2017 by The 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence, Violence

Our Unceasing Prayer Must Be for Peace

June 14, 2017 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, […]

Our Unceasing Prayer Must Be for Peace

June 14, 2017 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, […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence, Peace, Religion & Society, Worship

Update — GA Takes Up Dangerous Gun Law, June 7

June 7, 2017 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 […]

Update — GA Takes Up Dangerous Gun Law, June 7

June 7, 2017 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Action Alert, Gun Violence, N.C. General Assembly, Peace

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

June 1, 2017 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 […]

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

June 1, 2017 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Action Alert, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, N.C. General Assembly

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

May 30, 2017 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 […]

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

May 30, 2017 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Action Alert, Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Domestic Violence, Good Government, Gun Violence, N.C. General Assembly, Peace

2017 Stand Up Sabbath — June 16-18

May 15, 2017 By The 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 […]

2017 Stand Up Sabbath — June 16-18

May 15, 2017 by The 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Council News, Criminal Justice, Good Government, Gun Violence, Interfaith, Mental Health, N.C. General Assembly, Peace, Religion & Society, Worship

Raleigh Report — April 26, 2017

April 27, 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, […]

Raleigh Report — April 26, 2017

April 27, 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, […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Farmworkers, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Immigration, Organized Labor, Public Education

Guns on Campus Are a Bad Idea

April 25, 2017 By The 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), […]

Guns on Campus Are a Bad Idea

April 25, 2017 by The 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), […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Good Government, Gun Violence, Mental Health, N.C. General Assembly, Public Education

Raleigh Report — April 21, 2017

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 […]

Raleigh Report — April 21, 2017

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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Economic Justice, Elections, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Immigration, N.C. General Assembly, Public Education, State Budget, Taxes

Raleigh Report — April 17, 2017

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 […]

Raleigh Report — April 17, 2017

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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Rural Life, State Budget, Taxes

Raleigh Report — April 10, 2017

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. […]

Raleigh Report — April 10, 2017

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. […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Immigration, Mental Health, N.C. General Assembly, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Taxes

Action Needed Before Monday Night on Guns in Places of Worship

March 27, 2017 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 […]

Action Needed Before Monday Night on Guns in Places of Worship

March 27, 2017 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Action Alert, Children & Youth, Good Government, Gun Violence, Worship

Raleigh Report — March 26, 2017

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 […]

Raleigh Report — March 26, 2017

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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Environment, Good Government, Gun Violence, LGBTQ, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Public Education, State Budget, Taxes

Raleigh Report — March 21, 2017

March 23, 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 […]

Raleigh Report — March 21, 2017

March 23, 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Elections, Environment, Gender, Good Government, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, Immigration, LGBTQ, N.C. General Assembly, Public Education, State Budget, Taxes

Raleigh Report — March 7, 2017

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 […]

Raleigh Report — March 7, 2017

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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Elections, Good Government, Gun Violence, Immigration, N.C. General Assembly, State Budget, Taxes

Raleigh Report — February 28, 2017

March 1, 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 […]

Raleigh Report — February 28, 2017

March 1, 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Civil Liberties, Environment, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Human Rights, LGBTQ, Public Education

Raleigh Report — February 20, 2017

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 […]

Raleigh Report — February 20, 2017

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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Domestic Violence, Food, Good Government, Gun Violence, Immigration, LGBTQ, Mental Health, N.C. General Assembly

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

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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Action Alert, Children & Youth, Christian Unity, Civil Liberties, Council News, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Farmworkers, Fracking, Good Government, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, Housing, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, Mental Health, Moral Mondays, N.C. General Assembly, Organized Labor, Peace, People with Disabilities, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, Rural Life, State Budget

The Threat is not from Immigrants and Refugees

January 28, 2017 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 […]

The Threat is not from Immigrants and Refugees

January 28, 2017 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Gun Violence, Human Rights, Immigration, Interfaith, Religion & Society

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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Christian Unity, Civil Discourse, Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Farmworkers, Food, Fracking, Gender, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Housing, Human Rights, Hunger, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, Mental Health, N.C. General Assembly, Organized Labor, Peace, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, Rural Life, Taxes

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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Christian Unity, Civil Discourse, Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Food, Fracking, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Housing, Human Rights, Hunger, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, Mental Health, Organized Labor, Peace, People with Disabilities, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, Rural Life

Moving Beyond Gun Violence

January 21, 2017 By The 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 […]

Moving Beyond Gun Violence

January 21, 2017 by The 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Good Government, Gun Violence, Mental Health, Peace

A Letter to President Trump

January 20, 2017 By The 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 The 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Civil Discourse, Civil Liberties, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Farmworkers, Good Government, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Immigration, LGBTQ, Mental Health, Organized Labor, Peace, People with Disabilities, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, Taxes

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

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 & […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Action Alert, Children & Youth, Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Domestic Violence, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Fracking, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Hunger, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, Mental Health, Organized Labor, Peace, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, Rural Life, Substance Abuse

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

December 27, 2016 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 […]

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

December 27, 2016 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Domestic Violence, Good Government, Gun Violence, Mental Health, Peace

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 […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Action Alert, Christian Unity, Council News, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Farmworkers, Food, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Hunger, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, N.C. General Assembly, Peace, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, Rural Life

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, […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Christian Unity, Council News, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Farmworkers, Food, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Hunger, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, N.C. General Assembly, Peace, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, Rural Life

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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Christian Unity, Civil Discourse, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Domestic Violence, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Farmworkers, Food, Good Government, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, Housing, Hunger, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, Mental Health, Organized Labor, Peace, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Religion & Society, Rural Life, State Budget, Taxes, Worship

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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Farmworkers, Food, Gender, Good Government, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, Mental Health, N.C. General Assembly, Peace, People with Disabilities, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, State Budget, Taxes

Speak Peace

September 25, 2016 By The 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 […]

Speak Peace

September 25, 2016 by The 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Domestic Violence, Gun Violence, Interfaith, Peace, Religion & Society

Sore Afraid

September 23, 2016 By The 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 […]

Sore Afraid

September 23, 2016 by The 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Civil Discourse, Civil Liberties, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Gun Violence, Human Rights, Interfaith, Peace, Prophetic Voice, Religion & Society

Gun Violence and Public Health

July 15, 2016 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 […]

Gun Violence and Public Health

July 15, 2016 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Gun Violence, Health

Appealing to our Shared Humanity in Response to Civil Unrest

July 11, 2016 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 […]

Appealing to our Shared Humanity in Response to Civil Unrest

July 11, 2016 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence, Peace, Religion & Society

How Do We Respond?

June 13, 2016 By The 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 […]

How Do We Respond?

June 13, 2016 by The 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Good Government, Gun Violence, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Peace, Religion & Society

Pray for Orlando, Pray for Us All

June 12, 2016 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 […]

Pray for Orlando, Pray for Us All

June 12, 2016 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Christian Unity, Civil Discourse, Good Government, Gun Violence, Human Rights, Interfaith, N.C. General Assembly, Peace, Prophetic Voice, Religion & Society

Standing Together Against Gun Violence

June 9, 2016 By The 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 […]

Standing Together Against Gun Violence

June 9, 2016 by The 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence

Gun Violence Prevention: New Web Page, Stand Up Sabbath

June 1, 2016 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 […]

Gun Violence Prevention: New Web Page, Stand Up Sabbath

June 1, 2016 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Council News, Criminal Justice, Gun Violence, Mental Health, N.C. General Assembly, Prophetic Voice, Religion & Society, Worship

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

May 16, 2016 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 […]

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

May 16, 2016 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence, Peace, Worship

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; […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Action Alert, Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Gender, Good Government, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, Housing, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, Moral Mondays, N.C. General Assembly, Organized Labor, Peace, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, State Budget, Taxes

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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, N.C. General Assembly, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, State Budget, Taxes

Candlelight Vigil Marks Losses to Gun Violence

December 11, 2015 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 […]

Candlelight Vigil Marks Losses to Gun Violence

December 11, 2015 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Good Government, Gun Violence

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

December 7, 2015 By The 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, […]

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

December 7, 2015 by The 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, […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Good Government, Gun Violence, Peace, Religion & Society

Interfaith Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath Weekend, December 10-14

November 23, 2015 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 […]

Interfaith Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath Weekend, December 10-14

November 23, 2015 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Gun Violence

‘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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Death Penalty, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, Hunger, Immigration, LGBTQ, N.C. General Assembly, Public Education, State Budget, Taxes

The Path Beyond Gun Violence

October 2, 2015 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, […]

The Path Beyond Gun Violence

October 2, 2015 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, […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence, Peace

Standin’ in the Need of Prayer

June 25, 2015 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 […]

Standin’ in the Need of Prayer

June 25, 2015 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Equality & Reconciliation, Gun Violence, Peace, Race/Ethnicity

Scrutiny for Gun Laws, Post-Charleston

June 23, 2015 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 […]

Scrutiny for Gun Laws, Post-Charleston

June 23, 2015 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Gun Violence, N.C. General Assembly, Peace, Race/Ethnicity

Statement on the Shootings in Charleston

June 18, 2015 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 […]

Statement on the Shootings in Charleston

June 18, 2015 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Council News, Equality & Reconciliation, Gun Violence, Race/Ethnicity, Worship

Veto Overriders Flex Their Muscles

June 6, 2015 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 […]

Veto Overriders Flex Their Muscles

June 6, 2015 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Civil Liberties, Domestic Violence, Gun Violence, N.C. General Assembly

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

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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Death Penalty, Environment, Gun Violence, N.C. General Assembly

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

April 3, 2014 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 […]

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

April 3, 2014 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Community Gardens, Economic Justice, Environment, Food, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Hunger, Living Wage, Mental Health, Race/Ethnicity, Substance Abuse

HKonJ 2014 — Moral March and People’s Assembly

February 8, 2014 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 […]

HKonJ 2014 — Moral March and People’s Assembly

February 8, 2014 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Fracking, Gender, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Housing, Hunger, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, Mental Health, Moral Mondays, N.C. General Assembly, Public Education, Religion & Society, State Budget, Taxes

Pray with Us on Friday, March with Us on Saturday

February 6, 2014 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 […]

Pray with Us on Friday, March with Us on Saturday

February 6, 2014 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Christian Unity, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Housing, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Moral Mondays, N.C. General Assembly, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Religion & Society, State Budget, Taxes

HKonJ 2014 — Saturday, February 8

January 12, 2014 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 […]

HKonJ 2014 — Saturday, February 8

January 12, 2014 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Fracking, Good Government, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, Mental Health, Moral Mondays, N.C. General Assembly, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, State Budget, Taxes

Tragic Combination: Guns and Mental Illness

September 26, 2013 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 […]

Tragic Combination: Guns and Mental Illness

September 26, 2013 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Good Government, Gun Violence, Mental Health

Worship Resources on Gun Violence

September 26, 2013 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

September 26, 2013 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.

Filed Under: Lectionary Tagged With: Gun Violence

Call Legislative Leaders About Gun Measures

July 23, 2013 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 […]

Call Legislative Leaders About Gun Measures

July 23, 2013 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Action Alert, Good Government, Gun Violence, Peace

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

May 6, 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 […]

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

May 6, 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 […]

Filed Under: Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Elections, Good Government, Gun Violence, Immigration, Public Education

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

April 23, 2013 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 […]

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

April 23, 2013 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Economic Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Food, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Housing, Immigration, Taxes

Deadlines Pass – Raleigh Report April 22, 2013

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

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.

Filed Under: Raleigh Report Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, State Budget

Believing in Goodness and Mercy After a Very Hard Week

April 19, 2013 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 […]

Believing in Goodness and Mercy After a Very Hard Week

April 19, 2013 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Christian Unity, Civil Discourse, Civil Liberties, Good Government, Gun Violence, Peace, Prophetic Voice, Religion & Society, Worship

Interfaith Call-in Day to Prevent Gun Violence April 9

April 8, 2013 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 […]

Interfaith Call-in Day to Prevent Gun Violence April 9

April 8, 2013 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Domestic Violence, Good Government, Gun Violence, Human Rights, Mental Health, Religion & Society

U.S. Senate Expected to Take Up Gun Legislation

April 2, 2013 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 […]

U.S. Senate Expected to Take Up Gun Legislation

April 2, 2013 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Civil Discourse, Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Domestic Violence, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Gun Violence, Peace, Prophetic Voice, Religion & Society

Raleigh Report-Gun Bills Flood In

March 19, 2013 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

March 19, 2013 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Environment, Fracking, Good Government, Gun Violence, Immigration, Living Wage, Public Education, State Budget, Taxes

Guns in Bars and Restaurants Before Subcommittee on March 20

March 15, 2013 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 […]

Guns in Bars and Restaurants Before Subcommittee on March 20

March 15, 2013 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Food, Good Government, Gun Violence

Preparing the Way: The Price of Faithfulness

March 15, 2013 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 […]

Preparing the Way: The Price of Faithfulness

March 15, 2013 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Gun Violence, Religion & Society, Worship

National Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath — March 15-17

March 12, 2013 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 […]

National Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath — March 15-17

March 12, 2013 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Christian Unity, Civil Discourse, Civil Liberties, Domestic Violence, Good Government, Gun Violence, Interfaith, Peace, Prophetic Voice, Religion & Society, Worship

Raleigh Report – February 25, 2013

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 […]

Raleigh Report – February 25, 2013

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 […]

Filed Under: Raleigh Report Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Fracking, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, State Budget, Taxes

The NRA Takes Aim at Latinos

February 20, 2013 By chris

In a recent column for the Daily Caller, Wayne LaPierre – the official spokesman for the NRA and a recent witness in Congress – urges his readers to buy more […]

The NRA Takes Aim at Latinos

February 20, 2013 by chris

In a recent column for the Daily Caller, Wayne LaPierre – the official spokesman for the NRA and a recent witness in Congress – urges his readers to buy more […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Gun Violence, Immigration, Peace

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