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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 […]

Time to Take a Knee

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

It has been nearly fourteen months since Colin Kaepernick first knelt during the playing of the Star Spangled Banner prior to the start of his team’s games. The decision not to stand during the national anthem, as he has repeatedly stated, was in response to the on-going epidemic of police brutality and the inequality that […]

Time to Take a Knee

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

It has been nearly fourteen months since Colin Kaepernick first knelt during the playing of the Star Spangled Banner prior to the start of his team’s games. The decision not to stand during the national anthem, as he has repeatedly stated, was in response to the on-going epidemic of police brutality and the inequality that […]

Police Brutality is not a Joking Matter

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

By Andrew Hudgins, NCCC Program Associate for Operations, for The Resistance Prays News: In a speech delivered to law enforcement officers last week, President Trump seemed to endorse police brutality when he asked officers not to be “too nice” and suggested that they should hit suspect’s heads on the doors of their police cars. The […]

Police Brutality is not a Joking Matter

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

By Andrew Hudgins, NCCC Program Associate for Operations, for The Resistance Prays News: In a speech delivered to law enforcement officers last week, President Trump seemed to endorse police brutality when he asked officers not to be “too nice” and suggested that they should hit suspect’s heads on the doors of their police cars. The […]

Anti-LGBTQ Policies Impact Us All

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Wednesday’s federal-policy-by-tweet announcement that children of God who are transgender could no longer serve in the military may have distracted attention from another action by the federal government. The Department of Justice, also on Wednesday, filed a legal brief in an ongoing court case in which the DOJ argued that Civil Rights protections do not […]

Anti-LGBTQ Policies Impact Us All

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Wednesday’s federal-policy-by-tweet announcement that children of God who are transgender could no longer serve in the military may have distracted attention from another action by the federal government. The Department of Justice, also on Wednesday, filed a legal brief in an ongoing court case in which the DOJ argued that Civil Rights protections do not […]

Wages of War

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Wartime profits are a thing — from the people who make the machines we use to kill other people to the garment factories that provide clothing for the people who do the killing, there is money to be made keeping the war machine equipped. Eisenhower, the retired Army general we elected president in 1952, warned […]

Wages of War

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Wartime profits are a thing — from the people who make the machines we use to kill other people to the garment factories that provide clothing for the people who do the killing, there is money to be made keeping the war machine equipped. Eisenhower, the retired Army general we elected president in 1952, warned […]

Great to Meet You at Wild Goose!

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We were delighted to meet many of you at the Wild Goose Festival last week. Council staff members enjoyed spending time with friends from across the country, hearing your stories, and discussing ways to work together for a more just society. Although Wild Goose 2017 may be over, opportunities for progressive people of faith to […]

Great to Meet You at Wild Goose!

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We were delighted to meet many of you at the Wild Goose Festival last week. Council staff members enjoyed spending time with friends from across the country, hearing your stories, and discussing ways to work together for a more just society. Although Wild Goose 2017 may be over, opportunities for progressive people of faith to […]

The President’s New Policies are Bad for Cuba and the Church

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

I have been blessed with the opportunity to visit Cuba on two occasions: the first in 2000 on a mission trip with a Baptist church and the second last September with a Witness for Peace delegation. On both visits, I have witnessed Cuban people suffering because of the U.S. embargo combined with stifled dissent and […]

The President’s New Policies are Bad for Cuba and the Church

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

I have been blessed with the opportunity to visit Cuba on two occasions: the first in 2000 on a mission trip with a Baptist church and the second last September with a Witness for Peace delegation. On both visits, I have witnessed Cuban people suffering because of the U.S. embargo combined with stifled dissent and […]

Senate Health Care Plan — Let’s Keep Calling

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As the Senate continues its secret deliberations on a health care plan that will effect all Americans, the potential impact on one of the most vulnerable groups in our society – children – continues to unfold. Indications are that, in their closed-door meetings, the Senators have taken a similar approach to the House of Representatives. […]

Senate Health Care Plan — Let’s Keep Calling

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As the Senate continues its secret deliberations on a health care plan that will effect all Americans, the potential impact on one of the most vulnerable groups in our society – children – continues to unfold. Indications are that, in their closed-door meetings, the Senators have taken a similar approach to the House of Representatives. […]

Let Us Show Love and Compassion on World Refugee Day

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

First celebrated in 2001, World Refugee Day is held annually on June 20​. The day marks a worldwide effort to raise awareness of the plight of refugees and recognize the contributions​ of forcibly displaced people. The annual commemoration is designated​ to honor​ “the strength, courage and resilience of refugees.”  It​ is marked by events in more than 100 countries; in Raleigh […]

Let Us Show Love and Compassion on World Refugee Day

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

First celebrated in 2001, World Refugee Day is held annually on June 20​. The day marks a worldwide effort to raise awareness of the plight of refugees and recognize the contributions​ of forcibly displaced people. The annual commemoration is designated​ to honor​ “the strength, courage and resilience of refugees.”  It​ is marked by events in more than 100 countries; in Raleigh […]

Now what? Staying Engaged and Grow the Interfaith Climate Movement

By Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

We were already living in a time of profound consequence. President Trump’s decision to pull the U.S. out of the Paris Climate Agreement means that while the needs of our endangered climate are increasing, the response to global warming is diminishing at the national level. Our actions now, as climate conscious people of faith, matter more than ever. There […]

Now what? Staying Engaged and Grow the Interfaith Climate Movement

by Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

We were already living in a time of profound consequence. President Trump’s decision to pull the U.S. out of the Paris Climate Agreement means that while the needs of our endangered climate are increasing, the response to global warming is diminishing at the national level. Our actions now, as climate conscious people of faith, matter more than ever. There […]

2018 Budget Proposal is the Antithesis of our Call

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Plenty of analysis is already happening around the 2018 budget proposal out of the White House. The Washington Post provides two helpful graphics here and here. More is being written than most of us can fully absorb, but  Politico offers a key observation: On close reading, the budget is less a credible attempt to eliminate, […]

2018 Budget Proposal is the Antithesis of our Call

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Plenty of analysis is already happening around the 2018 budget proposal out of the White House. The Washington Post provides two helpful graphics here and here. More is being written than most of us can fully absorb, but  Politico offers a key observation: On close reading, the budget is less a credible attempt to eliminate, […]

Raleigh Report — May 10, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [For more information on bills, including committee referrals and re-referrals, texts of bills, procedural histories, and recorded votes, go to the General Assembly website www.ncleg.net.] Newly Introduced Bills EDUCATION Three companion bills would impact food served in schools. H 891, Free Breakfast and Lunch in K-12 Public Schools, would […]

Raleigh Report — May 10, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [For more information on bills, including committee referrals and re-referrals, texts of bills, procedural histories, and recorded votes, go to the General Assembly website www.ncleg.net.] Newly Introduced Bills EDUCATION Three companion bills would impact food served in schools. H 891, Free Breakfast and Lunch in K-12 Public Schools, would […]

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, […]

Efforts to Cut Health Care Continue in Congress

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The public is opposed to efforts to replace the Affordable Care Act, but some members of the U.S. House of Representatives seem determined to forge ahead anyway. The latest version of a replacement plan for the ACA could be voted on as early as this Wednesday. As with the American Health Care Act, this would […]

Efforts to Cut Health Care Continue in Congress

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The public is opposed to efforts to replace the Affordable Care Act, but some members of the U.S. House of Representatives seem determined to forge ahead anyway. The latest version of a replacement plan for the ACA could be voted on as early as this Wednesday. As with the American Health Care Act, this would […]

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 […]

Do We Treat Workers as We Would Treat Jesus?

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

In this Easter season of the Christian church, we have just celebrated Resurrection Sunday and the joy we feel that Jesus overcame death.  However, my preacher, the Rev. Betty Connette of West Boulevard Presbyterian Church in Raleigh, noted in her Easter sermon that believing in the resurrection is not the important part.  The important part […]

Do We Treat Workers as We Would Treat Jesus?

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

In this Easter season of the Christian church, we have just celebrated Resurrection Sunday and the joy we feel that Jesus overcame death.  However, my preacher, the Rev. Betty Connette of West Boulevard Presbyterian Church in Raleigh, noted in her Easter sermon that believing in the resurrection is not the important part.  The important part […]

SB 145 Debate Not in Accordance with Matthew 25

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last week, the Senate Judiciary Committee of the North Carolina General Assembly discussed SB 145, an anti-immigrant bill that would expand the 287g program, ​ thereby allowing local law enforcement to act as ICE officials and forcing​ NC university system institutions to disclose a student’s immigration status if required by a state or federal agency​. It would also​ revoke the […]

SB 145 Debate Not in Accordance with Matthew 25

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last week, the Senate Judiciary Committee of the North Carolina General Assembly discussed SB 145, an anti-immigrant bill that would expand the 287g program, ​ thereby allowing local law enforcement to act as ICE officials and forcing​ NC university system institutions to disclose a student’s immigration status if required by a state or federal agency​. It would also​ revoke 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 […]

Work for Just and Equitable Health Care is Not Finished

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Every state legislator should be required to listen to the stories shared at a press conference organized this week by North Carolina advocates for health care. Anyone opposed to Medicaid expansion might learn something. Dr. Erica Pettigrew, medical director of the Orange County Health Department, shared four different cases from a single day’s work where […]

Work for Just and Equitable Health Care is Not Finished

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Every state legislator should be required to listen to the stories shared at a press conference organized this week by North Carolina advocates for health care. Anyone opposed to Medicaid expansion might learn something. Dr. Erica Pettigrew, medical director of the Orange County Health Department, shared four different cases from a single day’s work where […]

Swallow Hard: H.B. 2’s Less-than-Ideal ‘Repeal’

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Call it a head-on collision between politics and principle. Is anyone surprised that politics prevailed? Yet here’s the twist that perhaps makes the outcome somewhat understandable, if no less regrettable. Those of us committed to stamping out discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity wanted North Carolina’s infamous House Bill 2 to […]

Swallow Hard: H.B. 2’s Less-than-Ideal ‘Repeal’

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Call it a head-on collision between politics and principle. Is anyone surprised that politics prevailed? Yet here’s the twist that perhaps makes the outcome somewhat understandable, if no less regrettable. Those of us committed to stamping out discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity wanted North Carolina’s infamous House Bill 2 to […]

Raleigh Report — March 13, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills CRIMINAL AND JUVENILE JUSTICE H 233, Ban the Box, would govern how state and local governments could use criminal histories in making hiring decision. (“Ban the box” refers to the question on an application form about whether the applicant has ever been convicted of a crime, […]

Raleigh Report — March 13, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills CRIMINAL AND JUVENILE JUSTICE H 233, Ban the Box, would govern how state and local governments could use criminal histories in making hiring decision. (“Ban the box” refers to the question on an application form about whether the applicant has ever been convicted of a crime, […]

Who Would Choose to be Poor or Sick?

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Around the release of the alt-health plan currently making its way through Congress, several elected leaders have gone where elected leaders sometimes go – blaming the poor for being poor. Perhaps it’s to assuage their consciences or justify their current proposal which would make it more expensive for those with the fewest resources and limit […]

Who Would Choose to be Poor or Sick?

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Around the release of the alt-health plan currently making its way through Congress, several elected leaders have gone where elected leaders sometimes go – blaming the poor for being poor. Perhaps it’s to assuage their consciences or justify their current proposal which would make it more expensive for those with the fewest resources and limit […]

Taking Away Health Care

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Despite evidence that the Affordable Care Act is more popular and more needed than ever, some Republicans in Congress have proceeded with partisan plans to repeal Obamacare while dismantling Medicaid as we know it. Among other things, our friends at Save My Care explain that the plan put forward on Monday would: End ACA tax […]

Taking Away Health Care

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Despite evidence that the Affordable Care Act is more popular and more needed than ever, some Republicans in Congress have proceeded with partisan plans to repeal Obamacare while dismantling Medicaid as we know it. Among other things, our friends at Save My Care explain that the plan put forward on Monday would: End ACA tax […]

H.B. 2 ‘Compromise’ Must Protect Rights

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The fight over North Carolina’s House Bill 2 – the law that notoriously stamps the state’s seal of approval on discrimination against lesbian, gay and transgender folks – has devolved into a form of trench warfare. Republican legislators and social conservatives who support the law remain dug in against an outright repeal. They can’t afford […]

H.B. 2 ‘Compromise’ Must Protect Rights

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The fight over North Carolina’s House Bill 2 – the law that notoriously stamps the state’s seal of approval on discrimination against lesbian, gay and transgender folks – has devolved into a form of trench warfare. Republican legislators and social conservatives who support the law remain dug in against an outright repeal. They can’t afford […]

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 […]

Let Loving One Another Become Our Norm

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Yesterday morning, the Sandra P. Lerner Jewish Community Day School in Durham received a bomb threat. This was the most recent in recurring waves of bomb threats against Jewish centers over the past two months—69 bomb threats at 54 Jewish community centers in 27 states and a Canadian province, according to the Jewish Community Center […]

Let Loving One Another Become Our Norm

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Yesterday morning, the Sandra P. Lerner Jewish Community Day School in Durham received a bomb threat. This was the most recent in recurring waves of bomb threats against Jewish centers over the past two months—69 bomb threats at 54 Jewish community centers in 27 states and a Canadian province, according to the Jewish Community Center […]

Answering your Questions about Sanctuary

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

President Trump’s recent executive actions impacting refugees and immigrants have faithful people increasingly interested in how they might support our sisters and brothers being impacted. Court decisions have offered a reprieve, but the administration’s determination to make many newcomers to our country scapegoats and the targets of misguided hostility has only emphasized their vulnerability. Jennie […]

Answering your Questions about Sanctuary

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

President Trump’s recent executive actions impacting refugees and immigrants have faithful people increasingly interested in how they might support our sisters and brothers being impacted. Court decisions have offered a reprieve, but the administration’s determination to make many newcomers to our country scapegoats and the targets of misguided hostility has only emphasized their vulnerability. Jennie […]

Refugees Welcomed, Not Banned

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last in a series of three blogs. Above all, these strangers bring to us the Christ. When we welcome a stranger we welcome Jesus, and when we welcome Jesus we welcome our creator. Refugees, immigrants, those yearning to be free—these are the ones whom Jesus spoke about when he said, “I was a stranger and […]

Refugees Welcomed, Not Banned

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last in a series of three blogs. Above all, these strangers bring to us the Christ. When we welcome a stranger we welcome Jesus, and when we welcome Jesus we welcome our creator. Refugees, immigrants, those yearning to be free—these are the ones whom Jesus spoke about when he said, “I was a stranger and […]

Walls Demonstrate Hostility, not Hospitality

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Second in a series of three blogs. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it. (Hebrews 13:2)  The idea of “building a wall” has been extremely popular in this administration, and President Trump’s first executive order followed through on that promise by directing the […]

Walls Demonstrate Hostility, not Hospitality

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Second in a series of three blogs. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it. (Hebrews 13:2)  The idea of “building a wall” has been extremely popular in this administration, and President Trump’s first executive order followed through on that promise by directing the […]

Big Stakes in High Court Pick

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Compared with some of the provocatively, even outrageously unsuited people whom President Trump has chosen for high office, Neil Gorsuch barely moves the needle. But that’s not to say Americans concerned about safeguarding the institutions of democracy should be heartened to see Gorsuch ascending to the U.S. Supreme Court, as almost assuredly he will. There […]

Big Stakes in High Court Pick

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Compared with some of the provocatively, even outrageously unsuited people whom President Trump has chosen for high office, Neil Gorsuch barely moves the needle. But that’s not to say Americans concerned about safeguarding the institutions of democracy should be heartened to see Gorsuch ascending to the U.S. Supreme Court, as almost assuredly he will. There […]

Speak Against Vitriol; Stand for Values

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

For more than 80 years the NC Council of Churches has stood for essential human rights and common decency grounded in the Gospel imperative to “love God and love neighbor.” We started with the issue of racial equality in 1935 and forthrightly moved into “migrant labor” and immigration, women’s right, the environment, and health care. […]

Speak Against Vitriol; Stand for Values

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

For more than 80 years the NC Council of Churches has stood for essential human rights and common decency grounded in the Gospel imperative to “love God and love neighbor.” We started with the issue of racial equality in 1935 and forthrightly moved into “migrant labor” and immigration, women’s right, the environment, and health care. […]

Blessed not Blocked or Banned

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

This Sunday’s Gospel reading was the Beatitudes, Matthew 5:1-12. Jesus says blessed nine times, but he never says blocked or banned. When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in […]

Blessed not Blocked or Banned

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

This Sunday’s Gospel reading was the Beatitudes, Matthew 5:1-12. Jesus says blessed nine times, but he never says blocked or banned. When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in […]

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 […]

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 […]

Join us to Pray for Justice and Reconciliation and to Share Dinner Together

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Durham and the NC Council of Churches invite you to join us for a brief service to pray for justice and reconciliation in our nation and world on January 18 at 6 p.m. As we gather in the days between the commemoration of the work and witness of Dr. Martin […]

Join us to Pray for Justice and Reconciliation and to Share Dinner Together

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Durham and the NC Council of Churches invite you to join us for a brief service to pray for justice and reconciliation in our nation and world on January 18 at 6 p.m. As we gather in the days between the commemoration of the work and witness of Dr. Martin […]

Seeds of Change in a Momentous Year

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

As we watched the egregiously unqualified Donald Trump campaign for and win election to the White House, any good news on the government and politics front was likely to be obscured amid concerns about what Trump’s ascent could bode for the nation’s well-being. Concerns? That’s putting it mildly. Those of us who value our efforts […]

Seeds of Change in a Momentous Year

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

As we watched the egregiously unqualified Donald Trump campaign for and win election to the White House, any good news on the government and politics front was likely to be obscured amid concerns about what Trump’s ascent could bode for the nation’s well-being. Concerns? That’s putting it mildly. Those of us who value our efforts […]

Advent Guide: First Sunday After Christmas Day, January 1

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. Now after they had left, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain […]

Advent Guide: First Sunday After Christmas Day, January 1

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. Now after they had left, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain […]

Join in the Support of Belhaven’s Pungo Hospital

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

Community leaders continue to work endlessly to save the Pungo Hospital in Belhaven. Please join clergy and those concerned for justice this Wednesday, December 21, 10 a.m., at the Wake County Civil Court, Suite 1035, 316 Fayetteville Street in Raleigh (detailed directions below). The hoped-for outcome of this court hearing is to attain a temporary […]

Join in the Support of Belhaven’s Pungo Hospital

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

Community leaders continue to work endlessly to save the Pungo Hospital in Belhaven. Please join clergy and those concerned for justice this Wednesday, December 21, 10 a.m., at the Wake County Civil Court, Suite 1035, 316 Fayetteville Street in Raleigh (detailed directions below). The hoped-for outcome of this court hearing is to attain a temporary […]

Video — #LoveOneAnother

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The response to our sign-on ad was overwhelming and inspired the staff of the Council to create the video below. Clergy who would like to have their names included in an updated list to be posted at the end of the year can do so by going here. More information about this effort can be […]

Video — #LoveOneAnother

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The response to our sign-on ad was overwhelming and inspired the staff of the Council to create the video below. Clergy who would like to have their names included in an updated list to be posted at the end of the year can do so by going here. More information about this effort can be […]

The Cuban Church in a Post-Castro World

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

In September, I had an opportunity to travel to Cuba with Witness for Peace as part of a delegation focused on “Faith, Politics, Economics, and Changing U.S.-Cuban Relations.” There I witnessed many things. I saw a fantastic healthcare system and an educational system that provided for everyone. I met with some amazing people of faith […]

The Cuban Church in a Post-Castro World

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

In September, I had an opportunity to travel to Cuba with Witness for Peace as part of a delegation focused on “Faith, Politics, Economics, and Changing U.S.-Cuban Relations.” There I witnessed many things. I saw a fantastic healthcare system and an educational system that provided for everyone. I met with some amazing people of faith […]

A Troubling Choice, Yet Glimmers of Hope

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Those of us aligned with the Council of Churches share a political outlook whose priorities include equal rights, equal opportunity, environmental stewardship, ample investment in public services and fair allocation of that investment’s costs. We believe that the United States must lead by example through sustained efforts to build a just, prosperous and compassionate society, […]

A Troubling Choice, Yet Glimmers of Hope

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Those of us aligned with the Council of Churches share a political outlook whose priorities include equal rights, equal opportunity, environmental stewardship, ample investment in public services and fair allocation of that investment’s costs. We believe that the United States must lead by example through sustained efforts to build a just, prosperous and compassionate society, […]

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 […]

NC Family Featured in Video on Need for Medicaid Expansion

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Nina Voli, Duke Divinity School Intern Although the Affordable Care Act expanded health care coverage to millions of Americans, the Supreme Court ruled that state enrollment in Medicaid expansion was optional. As a result of this decision, 19 states, including North Carolina, declined the funds allocated for expansion, and roughly three million adults nationwide were left in a […]

NC Family Featured in Video on Need for Medicaid Expansion

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Nina Voli, Duke Divinity School Intern Although the Affordable Care Act expanded health care coverage to millions of Americans, the Supreme Court ruled that state enrollment in Medicaid expansion was optional. As a result of this decision, 19 states, including North Carolina, declined the funds allocated for expansion, and roughly three million adults nationwide were left in a […]

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 […]

Proposed H.B. 2 Deal Falls Short

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Who can blame North Carolina’s restaurant and hotel operators for wishing the whole House Bill 2 controversy would just vanish into thin air, as if it had never existed? They’d love to see the clock rolled back to that glorious time before Charlotte strengthened the city’s anti-discrimination rules and before the General Assembly responded with […]

Proposed H.B. 2 Deal Falls Short

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Who can blame North Carolina’s restaurant and hotel operators for wishing the whole House Bill 2 controversy would just vanish into thin air, as if it had never existed? They’d love to see the clock rolled back to that glorious time before Charlotte strengthened the city’s anti-discrimination rules and before the General Assembly responded with […]

North Carolina Passes a Decade with No Executions

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Many in our state are celebrating 10 years of no executions and putting out a call for no more killings in our name.  Patrick O’Neil a leading abolitionist in our state has helped organize a service and vigil to commemorate 10 years of an execution-free North Carolina.  The service will begin at 7 PM on August 18th […]

North Carolina Passes a Decade with No Executions

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Many in our state are celebrating 10 years of no executions and putting out a call for no more killings in our name.  Patrick O’Neil a leading abolitionist in our state has helped organize a service and vigil to commemorate 10 years of an execution-free North Carolina.  The service will begin at 7 PM on August 18th […]

Stand with Refugees on World Refugee Day

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Today, June 20, is World Refugee Day, a day when people all over the world celebrate the courage, strength and resiliency of our neighbors who were forced to flee their home countries due to violence in search of safety and a better life for themselves and their families.  Due to the continuing crises in Somalia, Afghanistan, Syria, […]

Stand with Refugees on World Refugee Day

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Today, June 20, is World Refugee Day, a day when people all over the world celebrate the courage, strength and resiliency of our neighbors who were forced to flee their home countries due to violence in search of safety and a better life for themselves and their families.  Due to the continuing crises in Somalia, Afghanistan, Syria, […]

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 […]

The Effort to Expand Medicaid in North Carolina Continues

By Liz Millar, Medicaid Expansion Project Coordinator

As the General Assembly’s biennial short session continues, Medicaid expansion continues to be a hot issue for North Carolina. On May 25, concerned citizens gathered outside the General Assembly for Medicaid Expansion Advocacy Day to demand that North Carolina expand Medicaid and join the majority of other states that have closed the health care coverage gap for their […]

The Effort to Expand Medicaid in North Carolina Continues

by Liz Millar, Medicaid Expansion Project Coordinator

As the General Assembly’s biennial short session continues, Medicaid expansion continues to be a hot issue for North Carolina. On May 25, concerned citizens gathered outside the General Assembly for Medicaid Expansion Advocacy Day to demand that North Carolina expand Medicaid and join the majority of other states that have closed the health care coverage gap for their […]

Safety is Imperative to Worker Justice

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Worker Memorial Day is April 28, a day when we remember workers who have lost their lives providing goods (buildings, roads, food, clothing, etc) and services (caring for our children, elderly and disabled, cleaning our spaces, mowing our lawns, cutting our hair etc) for “the rest of us.” What does God require of us to […]

Safety is Imperative to Worker Justice

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Worker Memorial Day is April 28, a day when we remember workers who have lost their lives providing goods (buildings, roads, food, clothing, etc) and services (caring for our children, elderly and disabled, cleaning our spaces, mowing our lawns, cutting our hair etc) for “the rest of us.” What does God require of us to […]

Signs of Hope After Easter

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

I do not believe that I am the only one who feels a little hopeless right now. Members of the news media bombard us with news of​ the attack on Brussels, the passage of HB 2, ICE raids on undocumented youth and families, hateful political attacks and propaganda, the constant fear of terrorism, the unjust brutality […]

Signs of Hope After Easter

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

I do not believe that I am the only one who feels a little hopeless right now. Members of the news media bombard us with news of​ the attack on Brussels, the passage of HB 2, ICE raids on undocumented youth and families, hateful political attacks and propaganda, the constant fear of terrorism, the unjust brutality […]

Uncomplicating Justice

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

A lot of times in the work that we do at the Council we preface our comments, blogs or presentations with the words, “it’s complicated”. The Syrian refugee crisis is complicated. Immigration reform is complicated. Climate change is complicated. And it is. History is complicated and so are people’s motives and interpretations. However, often that […]

Uncomplicating Justice

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

A lot of times in the work that we do at the Council we preface our comments, blogs or presentations with the words, “it’s complicated”. The Syrian refugee crisis is complicated. Immigration reform is complicated. Climate change is complicated. And it is. History is complicated and so are people’s motives and interpretations. However, often that […]

Prayer Vigil and Dinner: Remembering our Time Together

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Earlier this month, more than 170 friends and allies gathered at Durham’s St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in support of our refugee sisters and brothers. We prayed and sang and then broke bread together. It was a special evening worth remembering for those who could join us. For those who could not, here are some highlights.

Prayer Vigil and Dinner: Remembering our Time Together

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Earlier this month, more than 170 friends and allies gathered at Durham’s St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in support of our refugee sisters and brothers. We prayed and sang and then broke bread together. It was a special evening worth remembering for those who could join us. For those who could not, here are some highlights.

Clergy Breakfasts​ Come at a Crucial Time

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Pope Francis has been an outspoken leader about the need to welcome immigrants and refugees in our communities. This past Thursday, he continued his positive track record of expressing compassion for immigrants and refugees when he addressed Congress. He invoked the Golden Rule held by many faith traditions – do unto others as we would […]

Clergy Breakfasts​ Come at a Crucial Time

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Pope Francis has been an outspoken leader about the need to welcome immigrants and refugees in our communities. This past Thursday, he continued his positive track record of expressing compassion for immigrants and refugees when he addressed Congress. He invoked the Golden Rule held by many faith traditions – do unto others as we would […]

Lamenting the Syrian Refugee Crisis

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last week, the European refugee crisis reached a tragic peak. More than 11 million Syrians have been forced to flee their homes due to violence and persecution. Many of these people have had no option but to put their lives at risk again and again in an attempt to reach a country that will provide refuge […]

Lamenting the Syrian Refugee Crisis

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last week, the European refugee crisis reached a tragic peak. More than 11 million Syrians have been forced to flee their homes due to violence and persecution. Many of these people have had no option but to put their lives at risk again and again in an attempt to reach a country that will provide refuge […]

Workers Deserve Dignity and Respect

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Monday, September 7 is Labor Day when we should honor the workers in our community with dignity and respect. The Social Creed for the 21st century, a document endorsed by major denominations, says specifically we should work for: Employment for all, at a family-sustaining living wage, with equal pay for comparable work. The rights of […]

Workers Deserve Dignity and Respect

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Monday, September 7 is Labor Day when we should honor the workers in our community with dignity and respect. The Social Creed for the 21st century, a document endorsed by major denominations, says specifically we should work for: Employment for all, at a family-sustaining living wage, with equal pay for comparable work. The rights of […]

Week of Action to End Immigration Detention Quotas

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Next week, the American Friends Service Committee is coordinating a national week of action to end immigration detention quotas. The United States has the largest detention immigration system in the world. This system has continued expanding in recent years due to the immigration detention quotas, a policy passed by Congress under which 34,000 immigrants are […]

Week of Action to End Immigration Detention Quotas

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Next week, the American Friends Service Committee is coordinating a national week of action to end immigration detention quotas. The United States has the largest detention immigration system in the world. This system has continued expanding in recent years due to the immigration detention quotas, a policy passed by Congress under which 34,000 immigrants are […]

Calling for Freedom

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

A few weeks ago, I, along with the rest of the nation, celebrated our nation’s independence. Last week I, along with thousands of North Carolinians, also attended the Mass Moral Monday March for Voting Rights in Winston-Salem. At the rally there was also much talk about freedom, especially the freedom to vote,​ as the trial […]

Calling for Freedom

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

A few weeks ago, I, along with the rest of the nation, celebrated our nation’s independence. Last week I, along with thousands of North Carolinians, also attended the Mass Moral Monday March for Voting Rights in Winston-Salem. At the rally there was also much talk about freedom, especially the freedom to vote,​ as the trial […]

Statement on the Supreme Court’s ACA Decision

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

Statement on the Supreme Court’s ACA Decision

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

Racism and Islamophobia — Local and Global

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern “Islamophobia doesn’t just affect Muslims, it affects a broad range of people,” began Manzoor Cheema, a leader of Muslims for Social Justice and one of the coalition leaders for the newly formed Movement to End Racism and Islamophobia (MERI). “The only way to overcome this oppression is to […]

Racism and Islamophobia — Local and Global

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern “Islamophobia doesn’t just affect Muslims, it affects a broad range of people,” began Manzoor Cheema, a leader of Muslims for Social Justice and one of the coalition leaders for the newly formed Movement to End Racism and Islamophobia (MERI). “The only way to overcome this oppression is to […]

Refugees Find Hope in Meeting With Each Other

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Refugees Find Hope in Meeting With Each Other

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Sad Signals on Tolerance, Rule of Law

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Gov. Pat McCrory tried to warn his fellow Republicans who call the tunes in the General Assembly. The rule of law was at stake, McCrory said, and the state would be asking for trouble if it let public officials pick and choose which of their duties they will carry out. His veto stamp thumped down on […]

Sad Signals on Tolerance, Rule of Law

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Gov. Pat McCrory tried to warn his fellow Republicans who call the tunes in the General Assembly. The rule of law was at stake, McCrory said, and the state would be asking for trouble if it let public officials pick and choose which of their duties they will carry out. His veto stamp thumped down on […]

The Pope and Ecology: Shouts from the Highest Steeple

By Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

The excitement is building: for the first time in history, the Pope is issuing an encyclical on the environment… but wait, why is this important? First, the Pope presides over the largest religious body with a single human leader: Catholicism. He is influential. Second, the encyclical is the second most important document the Pope can […]

The Pope and Ecology: Shouts from the Highest Steeple

by Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

The excitement is building: for the first time in history, the Pope is issuing an encyclical on the environment… but wait, why is this important? First, the Pope presides over the largest religious body with a single human leader: Catholicism. He is influential. Second, the encyclical is the second most important document the Pope can […]

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

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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

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

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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

David LaMotte on the Fair Food Program

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council’s Farmworker Ministry Committee has long been supportive of the Coalition of Immokalee Workers and its efforts on behalf of those who work in the fields. The Committee has hosted CIW events locally and advocated for the Coalition’s campaigns. David LaMotte, the Council’s consultant for peace, recently had a guest column published in the […]

David LaMotte on the Fair Food Program

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council’s Farmworker Ministry Committee has long been supportive of the Coalition of Immokalee Workers and its efforts on behalf of those who work in the fields. The Committee has hosted CIW events locally and advocated for the Coalition’s campaigns. David LaMotte, the Council’s consultant for peace, recently had a guest column published in the […]

Nepal and Baltimore

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Faced with darkness at home and abroad, may we do what we can to bring peace and ease. In both Nepal and Baltimore, lives have been lost tragically. Let us pray for the departed and all those who love them. In Nepal and Baltimore, years of neglect and conflict only contribute to the current crisis. […]

Nepal and Baltimore

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Faced with darkness at home and abroad, may we do what we can to bring peace and ease. In both Nepal and Baltimore, lives have been lost tragically. Let us pray for the departed and all those who love them. In Nepal and Baltimore, years of neglect and conflict only contribute to the current crisis. […]

Prayers Today on Workers’ Memorial Day

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

A few weeks ago, The News & Observer published an article entitled “Many NC workers’ death go uncounted,” describing how often workplace deaths in North Carolina are uninvestigated, undocumented, and unreported. The article details the ways that the NC Department of Labor reports workplace fatalities and how a large number of deaths are not counted […]

Prayers Today on Workers’ Memorial Day

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

A few weeks ago, The News & Observer published an article entitled “Many NC workers’ death go uncounted,” describing how often workplace deaths in North Carolina are uninvestigated, undocumented, and unreported. The article details the ways that the NC Department of Labor reports workplace fatalities and how a large number of deaths are not counted […]

Medicaid Message Packs a Punch

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Call it an exercise in futility? Well, no. There may not be a chance in the world that the General Assembly’s Republican chiefs will let the latest proposal to expand Medicaid come to a vote this year, or even receive a fair hearing in the committees they control. But by pressing the case, advocates continue […]

Medicaid Message Packs a Punch

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Call it an exercise in futility? Well, no. There may not be a chance in the world that the General Assembly’s Republican chiefs will let the latest proposal to expand Medicaid come to a vote this year, or even receive a fair hearing in the committees they control. But by pressing the case, advocates continue […]

What Does it Mean to Wear Ashes in Protest?

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Ash Wednesday is the first day of the season of Lent. In liturgical churches, it begins with a vivid reminder of death. As the words “for dust you are and to dust you shall return” are spoken, Christians are marked on their foreheads with ashes in the shape of the cross. This year in Mexico, […]

What Does it Mean to Wear Ashes in Protest?

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Ash Wednesday is the first day of the season of Lent. In liturgical churches, it begins with a vivid reminder of death. As the words “for dust you are and to dust you shall return” are spoken, Christians are marked on their foreheads with ashes in the shape of the cross. This year in Mexico, […]

Commentary About Torture Report Published

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

People of faith with Council connections have spoken out strongly on the Senate Intelligence Committee’s report on torture, calling for transparency. In particular, two recent opinion pieces call on Senator Richard Burr, now chair of the committee, to lead in releasing the full report. A guest column by NC Stop Torture Now’s Christina Cowger and Gary Gloster, the retired […]

Commentary About Torture Report Published

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

People of faith with Council connections have spoken out strongly on the Senate Intelligence Committee’s report on torture, calling for transparency. In particular, two recent opinion pieces call on Senator Richard Burr, now chair of the committee, to lead in releasing the full report. A guest column by NC Stop Torture Now’s Christina Cowger and Gary Gloster, the retired […]

February 6 — Contact Senator Burr

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our friends at NC Stop Torture Now are organizing a call-in to the offices of Sen. Richard Burr for Friday, February 6. Now that he is head of the Senate Intelligence Committee, his role in the full release of the 6,900-page report on the CIA torture program becomes even more crucial. Christina Cowger of NC […]

February 6 — Contact Senator Burr

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our friends at NC Stop Torture Now are organizing a call-in to the offices of Sen. Richard Burr for Friday, February 6. Now that he is head of the Senate Intelligence Committee, his role in the full release of the 6,900-page report on the CIA torture program becomes even more crucial. Christina Cowger of NC […]

Register Now for 2015 Faith and Immigration Summit

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Register Now for 2015 Faith and Immigration Summit

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

What Frightens Civitas?

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

What Frightens Civitas?

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Keep the Light Shining on CIA Conduct

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Perhaps you can fight fire with fire, but you can’t – or shouldn’t – attempt to fight terrorism with terror. That’s an ultimate takeaway from the U.S. Senate report detailing abusive interrogations of terror suspects by the Central Intelligence Agency. The CIA had a heavy responsibility in those dark days after Sept. 11, 2001, when […]

Keep the Light Shining on CIA Conduct

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Perhaps you can fight fire with fire, but you can’t – or shouldn’t – attempt to fight terrorism with terror. That’s an ultimate takeaway from the U.S. Senate report detailing abusive interrogations of terror suspects by the Central Intelligence Agency. The CIA had a heavy responsibility in those dark days after Sept. 11, 2001, when […]

Lifting Up the Mexican Children and Students

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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

Lifting Up the Mexican Children and Students

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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

Petition to Expand Medicaid in NC — Signers Welcome

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Petition to Expand Medicaid in NC — Signers Welcome

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Educating the Littlest and the Least

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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

Educating the Littlest and the Least

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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

From Broken Communities to Beloved Communities

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

The recent trial of Alamance County Sheriff Andrew Johnson has focused on alleged profiling abuses against Latinos. He is accused of detaining and arresting Latino drivers without probable cause. During the Winston-Salem-based trial, two retired supervising deputies testified that Johnson told officers not to give Latino drivers traffic citations but instead to take them to jail. […]

From Broken Communities to Beloved Communities

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

The recent trial of Alamance County Sheriff Andrew Johnson has focused on alleged profiling abuses against Latinos. He is accused of detaining and arresting Latino drivers without probable cause. During the Winston-Salem-based trial, two retired supervising deputies testified that Johnson told officers not to give Latino drivers traffic citations but instead to take them to jail. […]

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

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

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

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Gushee, Powery, Cowger Discussion Marks Torture Awareness Month

By Leslie Ware, Anti-Torture Project Coordinator

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

Gushee, Powery, Cowger Discussion Marks Torture Awareness Month

by Leslie Ware, Anti-Torture Project Coordinator

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

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

By Leslie Ware, Anti-Torture Project Coordinator

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

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

by Leslie Ware, Anti-Torture Project Coordinator

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

We Rejoice in Baptism, We Reject Torture

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

We Rejoice in Baptism, We Reject Torture

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Gardening With a Purpose

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Recently, I received a notice from a local community garden organizer about a grant opportunity sponsored by a fertilizer company. I shared it with my e-mail group and found one response, in particular, intriguing. Within this email, a local community leader expressed the importance of gardens, eating healthy, and making healthy local food accessible to […]

Gardening With a Purpose

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Recently, I received a notice from a local community garden organizer about a grant opportunity sponsored by a fertilizer company. I shared it with my e-mail group and found one response, in particular, intriguing. Within this email, a local community leader expressed the importance of gardens, eating healthy, and making healthy local food accessible to […]

Ash Wednesday Worship Resources on Human Rights

By chris

Date: Ash Wednesday - March 5, 2014
Topic: Human Rights
Focus Text: Isaiah 58:1-12
There are countless ways in which we can make these passages come to life in our own lives and in our society so that “We can be the change we want to see in the world.” Once again, following Jesus’ example is our best starting point. In Matthew 25, Jesus says the depth of our faith is measured by the depth of our relationship with those society labels “outcasts.” In Jesus’ day, outcasts were lepers, prostitutes and tax collectors to name a few. Today, outcasts include those with HIV and AIDS, gays and lesbians, Latinos, Muslims and prisoners, among others. Each of these groups of people faces scorn and vilification in our culture, but Christians must be different. We are called to provide love to those who are rejected and hated.

Ash Wednesday Worship Resources on Human Rights

by chris

Date: Ash Wednesday – March 5, 2014
Topic: Human Rights
Focus Text: Isaiah 58:1-12
There are countless ways in which we can make these passages come to life in our own lives and in our society so that “We can be the change we want to see in the world.” Once again, following Jesus’ example is our best starting point. In Matthew 25, Jesus says the depth of our faith is measured by the depth of our relationship with those society labels “outcasts.” In Jesus’ day, outcasts were lepers, prostitutes and tax collectors to name a few. Today, outcasts include those with HIV and AIDS, gays and lesbians, Latinos, Muslims and prisoners, among others. Each of these groups of people faces scorn and vilification in our culture, but Christians must be different. We are called to provide love to those who are rejected and hated.

HKonJ 2014 — Saturday, February 8

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

HKonJ 2014 — Saturday, February 8

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

Worship Resources on the Beatitudes

By chris

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

Worship Resources on the Beatitudes

by chris

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

Sequestration Cuts 300,000 Families from Energy Assistance

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

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

Sequestration Cuts 300,000 Families from Energy Assistance

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

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

Chocolate the Fair-Trade Way

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

With Halloween upon us and holiday baking not far behind, think in terms of fair-trade chocolate and other ingredients for sharing and for cooking. According to Vince Isner in the October 13 General Board of Church and Society of the United Methodist Church: This Halloween Americans will spend an estimated $1.2 billion on everyone’s favorite treat, […]

Chocolate the Fair-Trade Way

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

With Halloween upon us and holiday baking not far behind, think in terms of fair-trade chocolate and other ingredients for sharing and for cooking. According to Vince Isner in the October 13 General Board of Church and Society of the United Methodist Church: This Halloween Americans will spend an estimated $1.2 billion on everyone’s favorite treat, […]

Shutdown Scenario: The Hunger Brink

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The political stakes and motives are plain to see. President Obama and his Democratic allies on Capitol Hill are locked in a desperate struggle with the Republicans who control the U.S. House. Neither side wants to be painted as villains in the sorry saga of the partial federal government shutdown, or even worse, in any […]

Shutdown Scenario: The Hunger Brink

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The political stakes and motives are plain to see. President Obama and his Democratic allies on Capitol Hill are locked in a desperate struggle with the Republicans who control the U.S. House. Neither side wants to be painted as villains in the sorry saga of the partial federal government shutdown, or even worse, in any […]

NC Faith Leaders Call on Sen. Burr for Report’s Release

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

More than 190 faith leaders from across North Carolina have sent a letter to Senator Richard Burr, asking his support for release of the U.S. Senate Select Committee on Intelligence (SSCI) report on the use of torture after 9/11. Among the signatories are 18 bishops and other denominational executives, including Bishop Michael Curry of the Episcopal […]

NC Faith Leaders Call on Sen. Burr for Report’s Release

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

More than 190 faith leaders from across North Carolina have sent a letter to Senator Richard Burr, asking his support for release of the U.S. Senate Select Committee on Intelligence (SSCI) report on the use of torture after 9/11. Among the signatories are 18 bishops and other denominational executives, including Bishop Michael Curry of the Episcopal […]

Jailhouse Justice

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For all the Christian emphasis on forgiveness and redemption, many if not most churchgoers likely are comfortable with the old maxim, “Do the crime, do the time.” Law-breaking has its consequences in a just society, as it must. Still, the maxim can be dreadfully simplistic. How much time, under what conditions? What about mitigating factors? […]

Jailhouse Justice

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For all the Christian emphasis on forgiveness and redemption, many if not most churchgoers likely are comfortable with the old maxim, “Do the crime, do the time.” Law-breaking has its consequences in a just society, as it must. Still, the maxim can be dreadfully simplistic. How much time, under what conditions? What about mitigating factors? […]

Moral Mondays – Clergy Issued Special Invitation for May 20

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

As many of you already know, Rev. William Barber and the state NAACP are organizing weekly protests at the General Assembly, voicing opposition to the direction our state is being taken during this legislative session (that direction being backwards). These protests include, for those who choose to take part, nonviolent civil disobedience and arrest. In […]

Moral Mondays – Clergy Issued Special Invitation for May 20

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

As many of you already know, Rev. William Barber and the state NAACP are organizing weekly protests at the General Assembly, voicing opposition to the direction our state is being taken during this legislative session (that direction being backwards). These protests include, for those who choose to take part, nonviolent civil disobedience and arrest. In […]

Free lectionary materials - Public Accountability

Execution Foes at Legislature

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A misguided push in the General Assembly to get capital punishment back on track is generating a well-deserved pushback. People of Faith Against the Death Penalty, a group that for years has helped focus the case against executions, is bringing religious leaders to the Legislative Building as the debate again heats up. PFADP got its […]

Execution Foes at Legislature

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A misguided push in the General Assembly to get capital punishment back on track is generating a well-deserved pushback. People of Faith Against the Death Penalty, a group that for years has helped focus the case against executions, is bringing religious leaders to the Legislative Building as the debate again heats up. PFADP got its […]

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 […]

Stories That Lean Toward Liberation: My Discussion with Rev. Julio Ramirez-Eve

By Scott Schomburg, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

Exploring the power of witness in the midst of a raging immigration debate, Scott Schomburg reflects on his experience interviewing Rev. Julio Ramirez-Eve, pastor of Iglesia Hispana Emanuel in Durham, NC.

Stories That Lean Toward Liberation: My Discussion with Rev. Julio Ramirez-Eve

by Scott Schomburg, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

Exploring the power of witness in the midst of a raging immigration debate, Scott Schomburg reflects on his experience interviewing Rev. Julio Ramirez-Eve, pastor of Iglesia Hispana Emanuel in Durham, NC.