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NC Council of Churches

NC Council of Churches

Strength in Unity, Peace through Justice

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People with Disabilities

Thankful and Ever Vigilant When it Comes to Health Care

July 28, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We find ourselves in a better place than we might have been when it comes to health care policy. Remaining ever vigilant and recognizing that there is still much work […]

Thankful and Ever Vigilant When it Comes to Health Care

July 28, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We find ourselves in a better place than we might have been when it comes to health care policy. Remaining ever vigilant and recognizing that there is still much work […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Mental Health, People with Disabilities

What the Senate’s Motion to Proceed Vote Means for Health Care

July 25, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The U.S. Senate’s vote this afternoon moves the debate forward to potentially repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. What that will look like is anybody’s guess. Senators Burr and […]

What the Senate’s Motion to Proceed Vote Means for Health Care

July 25, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The U.S. Senate’s vote this afternoon moves the debate forward to potentially repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. What that will look like is anybody’s guess. Senators Burr and […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Mental Health, People with Disabilities

July 25 Update — Senate Health Care Vote Appears Likely Today

July 25, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

It appears that the U.S. Senate will vote today on some sort of health care action. What they’ll be voting on, however, is unclear even to some of them. This […]

July 25 Update — Senate Health Care Vote Appears Likely Today

July 25, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

It appears that the U.S. Senate will vote today on some sort of health care action. What they’ll be voting on, however, is unclear even to some of them. This […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Rural Life, Substance Abuse

Senate May Still Vote on Health Care; Please Keep Calling

July 21, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

No one seems completely clear on whether the Senate will vote next week on health care or what they will vote on if they do. That might be deliberate in […]

Senate May Still Vote on Health Care; Please Keep Calling

July 21, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

No one seems completely clear on whether the Senate will vote next week on health care or what they will vote on if they do. That might be deliberate in […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Action Alert, Aging, Children & Youth, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Mental Health, People with Disabilities

Revised Health Care Bill, Same Devastating Effects

July 14, 2017 By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Yesterday, the Senate unveiled a revised version of the Better Care Reconciliation Act. According to a report from our friends at the North Carolina Justice Center the changes, and their […]

Revised Health Care Bill, Same Devastating Effects

July 14, 2017 by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Yesterday, the Senate unveiled a revised version of the Better Care Reconciliation Act. According to a report from our friends at the North Carolina Justice Center the changes, and their […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Economic Justice, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Religion & Society, Taxes

Healing Miracles

July 7, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Just then there appeared a woman with a spirit that had crippled her for eighteen years. She was bent over and was quite unable to stand up straight. When Jesus […]

Healing Miracles

July 7, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Just then there appeared a woman with a spirit that had crippled her for eighteen years. She was bent over and was quite unable to stand up straight. When Jesus […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Economic Justice, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Religion & Society, Taxes

Thursday, June 15 — NC Health Care Call-in Day

June 14, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council’s commitment to health care as a basic justice issue dates back decades. Significant progress toward health care for all was made with the Affordable Care Act, progress toward […]

Thursday, June 15 — NC Health Care Call-in Day

June 14, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council’s commitment to health care as a basic justice issue dates back decades. Significant progress toward health care for all was made with the Affordable Care Act, progress toward […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Interfaith, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Prophetic Voice

Heal the Sick

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

For more than two decades, the NC Council of Churches has called for access to health care for all. The score from the Congressional Budget Office makes it undeniably clear […]

Heal the Sick

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

For more than two decades, the NC Council of Churches has called for access to health care for all. The score from the Congressional Budget Office makes it undeniably clear […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Economic Justice, Gender, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Prophetic Voice, Rural Life

2018 Budget Proposal is the Antithesis of our Call

May 23, 2017 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 […]

2018 Budget Proposal is the Antithesis of our Call

May 23, 2017 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Food, Fracking, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Housing, Human Rights, Hunger, Immigration, Mental Health, Peace, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Taxes

Congress is on Recess but You Can Still Take Action

April 19, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Congressional leaders are still in their home states for their spring recess, but your voices are still important. Please attend town halls held by our elected leaders, and please request […]

Congress is on Recess but You Can Still Take Action

April 19, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Congressional leaders are still in their home states for their spring recess, but your voices are still important. Please attend town halls held by our elected leaders, and please request […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Health, Healthcare Reform, Mental Health, People with Disabilities

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

Work for Just and Equitable Health Care is Not Finished

April 6, 2017 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 […]

Work for Just and Equitable Health Care is Not Finished

April 6, 2017 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Domestic Violence, Economic Justice, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Interfaith, Mental Health, N.C. General Assembly, People with Disabilities, State Budget

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

2017 Legislative Seminar Check-In Instructions

March 24, 2017 By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Thank you to those who have registered for the 2017 Legislative Seminar. We are looking forward to having you join us this Monday, March 27, at St. Mark’s United Methodist […]

2017 Legislative Seminar Check-In Instructions

March 24, 2017 by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Thank you to those who have registered for the 2017 Legislative Seminar. We are looking forward to having you join us this Monday, March 27, at St. Mark’s United Methodist […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Christian Unity, Civil Discourse, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Farmworkers, Fracking, Good Government, Healthcare Reform, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, N.C. General Assembly, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Refugees, Religion & Society, State Budget, Taxes

UPDATE: Trumpcare Just Got Worse — Call Before Today’s Vote

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

Thank you for every call, email, and letter to Congressional leaders that led to today’s decision to pull the American Health Care Act without a vote. Those committed to a […]

UPDATE: Trumpcare Just Got Worse — Call Before Today’s Vote

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

Thank you for every call, email, and letter to Congressional leaders that led to today’s decision to pull the American Health Care Act without a vote. Those committed to a […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Action Alert, Children & Youth, Civil Liberties, Economic Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Gender, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Prophetic Voice, Rural Life

If a Budget is a Moral Document, Then What Does this One Preach?

March 17, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The budget blueprint for 2018 released by President Trump on Thursday cuts a wide swath through programs that serve women, people of color, those of low income (for poor women […]

If a Budget is a Moral Document, Then What Does this One Preach?

March 17, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The budget blueprint for 2018 released by President Trump on Thursday cuts a wide swath through programs that serve women, people of color, those of low income (for poor women […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Domestic Violence, Economic Justice, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Food, Fracking, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Housing, Hunger, Immigration, Living Wage, Mental Health, Peace, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Refugees, Religion & Society, Taxes

Who Would Choose to be Poor or Sick?

March 13, 2017 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. […]

Who Would Choose to be Poor or Sick?

March 13, 2017 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. […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Civil Liberties, Economic Justice, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Mental Health, N.C. General Assembly, People with Disabilities, Race/Ethnicity, State Budget, Taxes

Taking Away Health Care

March 8, 2017 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 […]

Taking Away Health Care

March 8, 2017 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Action Alert, Christian Unity, Economic Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Prophetic Voice, Race/Ethnicity

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

Keeping With Community

January 29, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Enabling good health is a community restoration project. It’s really not about prescription plans, deductibles, out-of-pocket expenses, or any other cost-benefit analysis. It’s about community. When people are sick or […]

Keeping With Community

January 29, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Enabling good health is a community restoration project. It’s really not about prescription plans, deductibles, out-of-pocket expenses, or any other cost-benefit analysis. It’s about community. When people are sick or […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Action Alert, Children & Youth, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Religion & Society, Substance Abuse

The ACA Remains in Place; 2017 Open Enrollment ends January 31

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

The Affordable Care Act is still in place for 2017, and as our friends at the NC Justice Center remind us, nothing has changed for this year. Plans, prices, deadlines, […]

The ACA Remains in Place; 2017 Open Enrollment ends January 31

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

The Affordable Care Act is still in place for 2017, and as our friends at the NC Justice Center remind us, nothing has changed for this year. Plans, prices, deadlines, […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Health, Healthcare Reform, Mental Health, People with Disabilities

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

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

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

Reform Medicaid by Expanding It

April 4, 2016 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Remarks delivered on March 30 by Volunteer Program Associate Sandy Irving at the Raleigh public hearing on Medicaid reform. As Medicaid reform is being planned, please consider including Medicaid expansion […]

Reform Medicaid by Expanding It

April 4, 2016 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Remarks delivered on March 30 by Volunteer Program Associate Sandy Irving at the Raleigh public hearing on Medicaid reform. As Medicaid reform is being planned, please consider including Medicaid expansion […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Interfaith, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Prophetic Voice, Religion & Society

Statement on the Supreme Court’s ACA Decision

June 25, 2015 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 […]

Statement on the Supreme Court’s ACA Decision

June 25, 2015 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Economic Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Prophetic Voice, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, Substance Abuse

Warning Signs in Budget ‘Deal’

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

UPDATE: After this blog was posted, the final budget was unveiled and passed by the House and Senate. The large reductions in Medicaid reimbursement rates mentioned in the blog below […]

Warning Signs in Budget ‘Deal’

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

UPDATE: After this blog was posted, the final budget was unveiled and passed by the House and Senate. The large reductions in Medicaid reimbursement rates mentioned in the blog below […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Aging, Economic Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Health, N.C. General Assembly, People with Disabilities, Public Education, State Budget, Taxes

Health Crunch for the Vulnerable

June 6, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For most North Carolinians, the myriad choices that comprise the state budget may affect the quality of their children’s education, or whether their favorite state park is kept in good […]

Health Crunch for the Vulnerable

June 6, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For most North Carolinians, the myriad choices that comprise the state budget may affect the quality of their children’s education, or whether their favorite state park is kept in good […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Good Government, Health, N.C. General Assembly, People with Disabilities, Public Education, State Budget

Worship Resources on Awareness of Those with Disabilities

March 6, 2014 By chris

Date: 4th Sunday in Lent - March 30, 2014
Topic: Awareness of Those with Disabilities
Focus Text: John 9:1-41
Jesus’ concrete actions in response to the man’s situation call into question not only the self-righteous judgment of the religious leaders, but also the comfortable distance maintained by the disciples. When they encounter this man in the city, they see it as an opportunity for theological reflection. But Jesus changes the nature of the conversation altogether. The disciples want to speculate; Jesus decides to act – to welcome the man as a person and a child of God, to offer those unique gifts that he has been given to heal the man’s suffering, that the glory of God might be revealed.

Worship Resources on Awareness of Those with Disabilities

March 6, 2014 by chris

Date: 4th Sunday in Lent – March 30, 2014
Topic: Awareness of Those with Disabilities
Focus Text: John 9:1-41
Jesus’ concrete actions in response to the man’s situation call into question not only the self-righteous judgment of the religious leaders, but also the comfortable distance maintained by the disciples. When they encounter this man in the city, they see it as an opportunity for theological reflection. But Jesus changes the nature of the conversation altogether. The disciples want to speculate; Jesus decides to act – to welcome the man as a person and a child of God, to offer those unique gifts that he has been given to heal the man’s suffering, that the glory of God might be revealed.

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Lectionary Tagged With: Equality & Reconciliation, People with Disabilities

Shutdown Scenario: The Hunger Brink

October 11, 2013 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 […]

Shutdown Scenario: The Hunger Brink

October 11, 2013 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Economic Justice, Food, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Hunger, People with Disabilities, Religion & Society

The Nation is Watching NC and Moral Mondays

July 12, 2013 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The impact of Moral Mondays continues to extend beyond North Carolina. Two recent articles and an editorial in “The New York Times” are reaching a national audience. One of the […]

The Nation is Watching NC and Moral Mondays

July 12, 2013 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The impact of Moral Mondays continues to extend beyond North Carolina. Two recent articles and an editorial in “The New York Times” are reaching a national audience. One of the […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Civil Liberties, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Gender, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Living Wage, Moral Mondays, Organized Labor, People with Disabilities, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Taxes

Christian Unity

Faith Leaders for a Just Society in Asheville

May 16, 2013 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Faith leaders in Asheville are adding their voices to those outraged by the actions of NC legislators. Rev. Joe Hoffman, pastor of First Congregational United Church of Christ and an […]

Faith Leaders for a Just Society in Asheville

May 16, 2013 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Christian Unity

Faith leaders in Asheville are adding their voices to those outraged by the actions of NC legislators. Rev. Joe Hoffman, pastor of First Congregational United Church of Christ and an […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Fracking, Good Government, Healthcare Reform, Housing, Immigration, Living Wage, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Religion & Society, State Budget, Taxes

Preparing the Way: Blessed are the Peacemakers

March 26, 2013 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Sojo.net

Jesus was a peacemaking, blessed child of God, but he also was an “other.” Reviled and persecuted, he was the paperless son of displaced immigrant parents. The prophetic iconoclast. That guy who hung out with those people, the type most modern leaders would not associate with, except for a photo opportunity at a Thanksgiving Day soup kitchen. Let us remember on Sunday when we celebrate his resurrection, that Jesus was crucified because he was an outsider whose way of doing things scared and angered the powers-that-be.

Preparing the Way: Blessed are the Peacemakers

March 26, 2013 Leave a Comment

Sojo.net

Jesus was a peacemaking, blessed child of God, but he also was an “other.” Reviled and persecuted, he was the paperless son of displaced immigrant parents. The prophetic iconoclast. That guy who hung out with those people, the type most modern leaders would not associate with, except for a photo opportunity at a Thanksgiving Day soup kitchen. Let us remember on Sunday when we celebrate his resurrection, that Jesus was crucified because he was an outsider whose way of doing things scared and angered the powers-that-be.

Filed Under: NCCC in the News Tagged With: Christian Unity, Civil Discourse, Interfaith, Peace, People with Disabilities, Prophetic Voice, Religion & Society, Worship

Affordable Care Act’s Third Anniversary — A Reason to Celebrate

March 25, 2013 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On March 23, the Affordable Care Act celebrated its third anniversary. The North Carolina Council of Churches has long supported universal health care, and we remain committed to that goal […]

Affordable Care Act’s Third Anniversary — A Reason to Celebrate

March 25, 2013 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On March 23, the Affordable Care Act celebrated its third anniversary. The North Carolina Council of Churches has long supported universal health care, and we remain committed to that goal […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Substance Abuse

Program and Registration for 2013 Legislative Seminar

February 18, 2013 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

If you are interested in attending, but have not pre-registered, you may call our office at 919-828-6501 on Tuesday, April 9 until 5:00 p.m. Gene Nichol, Director of the Center […]

Program and Registration for 2013 Legislative Seminar

February 18, 2013 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

If you are interested in attending, but have not pre-registered, you may call our office at 919-828-6501 on Tuesday, April 9 until 5:00 p.m. Gene Nichol, Director of the Center […]

Filed Under: Blog, Events, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Civil Discourse, Civil Liberties, Council News, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Fracking, Good Government, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, Housing, Immigration, LGBTQ, Mental Health, Organized Labor, People with Disabilities, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, State Budget, Taxes

For the Good of All God’s Children — Accept Federal Money Offered to NC

February 9, 2013 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

If you are following the actions of the 2013 NC legislature, you know that the idea of accepting federal funds that will cover health insurance for hundreds of thousands of […]

For the Good of All God’s Children — Accept Federal Money Offered to NC

February 9, 2013 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

If you are following the actions of the 2013 NC legislature, you know that the idea of accepting federal funds that will cover health insurance for hundreds of thousands of […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Economic Justice, Good Government, Health, Mental Health, People with Disabilities

Protect Yourself and Others This Flu Season

January 10, 2013 By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Over the holidays, North Carolina State Health Director, Dr. Laura Gerald, put out a press release urging all North Carolinians over the age of 6 months to get their annual […]

Protect Yourself and Others This Flu Season

January 10, 2013 by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Over the holidays, North Carolina State Health Director, Dr. Laura Gerald, put out a press release urging all North Carolinians over the age of 6 months to get their annual […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Health, Healthcare Reform, People with Disabilities

Update on Free AED and CPR Program

December 13, 2012 By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

In the spring of this year, the NC Council of Churches and our partners, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of NC and the American Red Cross, awarded 34 free Automated […]

Update on Free AED and CPR Program

December 13, 2012 by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

In the spring of this year, the NC Council of Churches and our partners, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of NC and the American Red Cross, awarded 34 free Automated […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Aging, Food, Gender, Health, Healthcare Reform, People with Disabilities, Race/Ethnicity

Needed: Lobbyists for the Voiceless

December 7, 2012 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Congress is overwhelmed with lobbyists for corporations, Chambers of Commerce, AARP, the Department of Defense, etc. But those living in poverty are short on lobbyist as the so-called ‘fiscal cliff’ […]

Needed: Lobbyists for the Voiceless

December 7, 2012 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Congress is overwhelmed with lobbyists for corporations, Chambers of Commerce, AARP, the Department of Defense, etc. But those living in poverty are short on lobbyist as the so-called ‘fiscal cliff’ […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Civil Discourse, Economic Justice, Food, Good Government, Health, Housing, Human Rights, Living Wage, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Religion & Society, Taxes

Urge Congress to Promote the Common Good, Protect the Vulnerable

August 24, 2012 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Laypeople, clergy and organizational leaders can urge Congress to protect programs vital to vulnerable people as well as to protect the country’s economic security by e-mailing their elected leaders or signing […]

Urge Congress to Promote the Common Good, Protect the Vulnerable

August 24, 2012 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Laypeople, clergy and organizational leaders can urge Congress to protect programs vital to vulnerable people as well as to protect the country’s economic security by e-mailing their elected leaders or signing […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Economic Justice, Good Government, Peace, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Religion & Society

Health On Earth

July 2, 2012 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The News & Observer

The N.C. Council of Churches rejoices in the ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court upholding the Affordable Care Act, affirming the decades-long concerns of the council for those without health care.

Health On Earth

July 2, 2012 Leave a Comment

The News & Observer

The N.C. Council of Churches rejoices in the ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court upholding the Affordable Care Act, affirming the decades-long concerns of the council for those without health care.

Filed Under: NCCC in the News Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Civil Discourse, Economic Justice, Good Government, Healthcare Reform, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Religion & Society

Health Care for All God’s Children — ACA Upheld

June 28, 2012 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches rejoices in today’s ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court upholding the Affordable Care Act (ACA) which affirms the decades-long work and concerns of the NCCC […]

Health Care for All God’s Children — ACA Upheld

June 28, 2012 5 Comments

The NC Council of Churches rejoices in today’s ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court upholding the Affordable Care Act (ACA) which affirms the decades-long work and concerns of the NCCC […]

Filed Under: Blog, NCCC in the News Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Civil Discourse, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, People with Disabilities, Religion & Society

Upcoming Legislative Days and a Revenue Plan

May 15, 2012 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Several additional legislative days have been announced. Among them are: HKonJ, People of Color Justice and Unity Legislative Day is Wednesday, May 23. The opening session will be at Raleigh’s […]

Upcoming Legislative Days and a Revenue Plan

May 15, 2012 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Several additional legislative days have been announced. Among them are: HKonJ, People of Color Justice and Unity Legislative Day is Wednesday, May 23. The opening session will be at Raleigh’s […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Economic Justice, Good Government, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, State Budget

New County Health Rankings Point to Disparities in Health

April 10, 2012 By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

The 2012 County Health Rankings report, recently released by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, points to major disparities in health by geographic […]

New County Health Rankings Point to Disparities in Health

April 10, 2012 by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

The 2012 County Health Rankings report, recently released by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, points to major disparities in health by geographic […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Community Gardens, Economic Justice, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Farmworkers, Food, Gender, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Race/Ethnicity

The Story of Two Sons

April 1, 2012 By chris

Rev. Jill Edens, United Church of Chapel Hill

Though the disciples have left everything to follow Jesus, the discussion as they travel to Jerusalem reveals that they are profoundly unready for what is to come. In this pivotal moment we encounter blind Bartimaeus who Mark holds up as a model for discipleship: “As Jesus and his disciples and a large crowd were leaving Jericho, Bartimaeus, son of Timaeus, a blind beggar, was sitting by the roadside. When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout out and say, ‘Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!’”

The Story of Two Sons

April 1, 2012 by chris

Rev. Jill Edens, United Church of Chapel Hill

Though the disciples have left everything to follow Jesus, the discussion as they travel to Jerusalem reveals that they are profoundly unready for what is to come. In this pivotal moment we encounter blind Bartimaeus who Mark holds up as a model for discipleship: “As Jesus and his disciples and a large crowd were leaving Jericho, Bartimaeus, son of Timaeus, a blind beggar, was sitting by the roadside. When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout out and say, ‘Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!’”

Filed Under: Sermons Tagged With: Equality & Reconciliation, People with Disabilities, Worship

Affordable Care Act (ACA) Celebrates its Second Anniversary

March 20, 2012 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Affordable Care Act was approved two years ago. Join the virtual second-anniversary celebration through a conference call with Surgeon General Dr. Regina Benjamin on Thursday, March 22 at 2 p.m. Hear all […]

Affordable Care Act (ACA) Celebrates its Second Anniversary

March 20, 2012 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Affordable Care Act was approved two years ago. Join the virtual second-anniversary celebration through a conference call with Surgeon General Dr. Regina Benjamin on Thursday, March 22 at 2 p.m. Hear all […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Good Government, Healthcare Reform, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Substance Abuse

Free AEDs and CPR Trainings for Congregations

January 4, 2012 By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Have you ever been in church when someone suffered a heart attack?  If so, you know that helpless feeling of having to wait for help to arrive as critical seconds, […]

Free AEDs and CPR Trainings for Congregations

January 4, 2012 by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Have you ever been in church when someone suffered a heart attack?  If so, you know that helpless feeling of having to wait for help to arrive as critical seconds, […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Aging, Gender, Health, Healthcare Reform, People with Disabilities, Race/Ethnicity

NC People of Faith Urge Congressional Leaders to Protect the Vulnerable

November 7, 2011 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

More than 125 people of faith in North Carolina, including the heads of 10 denominations, are calling on the state’s leaders in Congress to protect vulnerable people in the midst […]

NC People of Faith Urge Congressional Leaders to Protect the Vulnerable

November 7, 2011 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

More than 125 people of faith in North Carolina, including the heads of 10 denominations, are calling on the state’s leaders in Congress to protect vulnerable people in the midst […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Economic Justice, Healthcare Reform, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Religion & Society

Nonprofit Offers Pharmacy Program

November 4, 2011 By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

The Sanford Herald

Giang said N.C. MedAssist representatives wanted to travel to each county to meet with eligible residents and explain the enrollment process. The organization contacted the North Carolina Council of Churches and expressed interest in partnering with faith-based organizations willing to host one-day enrollment programs. The Rev. Mechelle Myers of Sanford's New Endland AME Zion Church received an e-mail from the Council about the initiative and was the first person to respond.

Nonprofit Offers Pharmacy Program

November 4, 2011 Leave a Comment

The Sanford Herald

Giang said N.C. MedAssist representatives wanted to travel to each county to meet with eligible residents and explain the enrollment process. The organization contacted the North Carolina Council of Churches and expressed interest in partnering with faith-based organizations willing to host one-day enrollment programs. The Rev. Mechelle Myers of Sanford’s New Endland AME Zion Church received an e-mail from the Council about the initiative and was the first person to respond.

Filed Under: NCCC in the News Tagged With: Aging, Health, Healthcare Reform, Living Wage, Mental Health, People with Disabilities

November is American Diabetes Month

November 3, 2011 By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

The American Diabetes Association has launched a new faith-based program called "Live Empowered" which is designed to assist churches with integrating diabetes awareness messages and life application principles into worship services. Also, in observance of American Diabetes Month, the American Diabetes Association is sponsoring "Super Diabetes Sunday" on November 13th. Super Diabetes Sundays will include materials and giveaways to help your congregation join the fight against diabetes.

November is American Diabetes Month

November 3, 2011 by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

The American Diabetes Association has launched a new faith-based program called “Live Empowered” which is designed to assist churches with integrating diabetes awareness messages and life application principles into worship services. Also, in observance of American Diabetes Month, the American Diabetes Association is sponsoring “Super Diabetes Sunday” on November 13th. Super Diabetes Sundays will include materials and giveaways to help your congregation join the fight against diabetes.

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Food, Health, Healthcare Reform, People with Disabilities, Race/Ethnicity, Worship

Raleigh Report – August 5, 2011

August 8, 2011 By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The General Assembly returned to Raleigh in July for what was, in reality, Round Two of its 2011 Long Session. The primary tasks were to take up overrides on bills Governor Perdue had vetoed and to adopt redistricting plans for U.S. Congressional districts and for the state House and Senate.

Raleigh Report – August 5, 2011

August 8, 2011 by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The General Assembly returned to Raleigh in July for what was, in reality, Round Two of its 2011 Long Session. The primary tasks were to take up overrides on bills Governor Perdue had vetoed and to adopt redistricting plans for U.S. Congressional districts and for the state House and Senate.

Filed Under: Raleigh Report Tagged With: Environment, Fracking, Good Government, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Public Education, State Budget

Help Protect Medicaid and Medicare

July 7, 2011 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Reports from our friends at Faithful Reform in Health Care indicate that Medicaid and Medicare are at risk in the ongoing budget and debt negotiations in Washington. Decisions are believed […]

Help Protect Medicaid and Medicare

July 7, 2011 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Reports from our friends at Faithful Reform in Health Care indicate that Medicaid and Medicare are at risk in the ongoing budget and debt negotiations in Washington. Decisions are believed […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Economic Justice, Healthcare Reform, People with Disabilities, Religion & Society

Raleigh Report – June 21, 2011

June 23, 2011 By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The 2011 session of the General Assembly adjourned around midday on Saturday, June 18. Legislative leaders and the media are trumpeting the efficiency of the session and the fact that this is the earliest adjournment since 1973. But that is misleading since they aren’t really finished with their work. The adjournment resolution calls them back into a special session on July 13. At that time, they will take up the thorny issue of redistricting as well as controversial bills from the just-ended session which remain in conference committees and any bills vetoed by the Governor.

Raleigh Report – June 21, 2011

June 23, 2011 by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The 2011 session of the General Assembly adjourned around midday on Saturday, June 18. Legislative leaders and the media are trumpeting the efficiency of the session and the fact that this is the earliest adjournment since 1973. But that is misleading since they aren’t really finished with their work. The adjournment resolution calls them back into a special session on July 13. At that time, they will take up the thorny issue of redistricting as well as controversial bills from the just-ended session which remain in conference committees and any bills vetoed by the Governor.

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Environment, Fracking, Good Government, Gun Violence, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, State Budget

Truth to Power

May 25, 2011 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The seven individuals who were arrested at the General Assembly on Tuesday showed great courage and commitment to social justice. They spoke for those who often have no voice, were […]

Truth to Power

May 25, 2011 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The seven individuals who were arrested at the General Assembly on Tuesday showed great courage and commitment to social justice. They spoke for those who often have no voice, were […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, People with Disabilities, Public Education, State Budget

Why I Am in Jail

May 24, 2011 By David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

As I write this note, it is 12:30PM and I’m sitting comfortably in my office at the NC Council of Churches.  At 3PM, though, I will be in the gallery […]

Why I Am in Jail

May 24, 2011 by David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

As I write this note, it is 12:30PM and I’m sitting comfortably in my office at the NC Council of Churches.  At 3PM, though, I will be in the gallery […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Civil Liberties, Council News, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Human Rights, Peace, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, State Budget

Raleigh Report – April 4, 2011

April 4, 2011 By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The drumbeat of bad bills continues. Suffice it to say that it’s a tough year for those of us who have advocated for public policy decisions promoting social justice, protecting vulnerable people, and caring for God’s creation. We can’t respond to every bad idea or bad bill. On many of these issues, we feel like we are butting our heads against a wall. Our tendency may be to throw up our hands in despair.

Raleigh Report – April 4, 2011

April 4, 2011 by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The drumbeat of bad bills continues. Suffice it to say that it’s a tough year for those of us who have advocated for public policy decisions promoting social justice, protecting vulnerable people, and caring for God’s creation. We can’t respond to every bad idea or bad bill. On many of these issues, we feel like we are butting our heads against a wall. Our tendency may be to throw up our hands in despair.

Filed Under: Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Farmworkers, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Immigration, LGBTQ, People with Disabilities, Rural Life

Raleigh Report – March 21, 2011

March 23, 2011 By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

New bills on the budget, care of creation, criminal justice, election and campaign law, gambling, guns, health and health care, immigration, mental health, developmental disabilities, substance abuse services, public eduction, and taxes.

Raleigh Report – March 21, 2011

March 23, 2011 by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

New bills on the budget, care of creation, criminal justice, election and campaign law, gambling, guns, health and health care, immigration, mental health, developmental disabilities, substance abuse services, public eduction, and taxes.

Filed Under: Raleigh Report Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Environment, Farmworkers, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Immigration, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Substance Abuse

Fourth Sunday in Lent, Year A

March 3, 2011 By chris

The blind beggar healed on the Sabbath was a threat to them! His healing, his liberation was an assault on their traditions, their values, their power, their very lives. They felt attacked. And when we are threatened, we are reactive! We do not want to let go, holding tenaciously to what we know to be true. One slip, one exception, and everything we know would crumble. Must one person’s liberation be another person’s threat?

Fourth Sunday in Lent, Year A

March 3, 2011 by chris

The blind beggar healed on the Sabbath was a threat to them! His healing, his liberation was an assault on their traditions, their values, their power, their very lives. They felt attacked. And when we are threatened, we are reactive! We do not want to let go, holding tenaciously to what we know to be true. One slip, one exception, and everything we know would crumble. Must one person’s liberation be another person’s threat?

Filed Under: Lectionary Tagged With: People with Disabilities, Worship

Affirming NC’s Public Investments — An Opportunity for Action

February 4, 2011 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The North Carolina Council of Churches is a member of the Together NC Coalition. In light of the current state budget crisis, the coalition is offering concerned citizens one way […]

Affirming NC’s Public Investments — An Opportunity for Action

February 4, 2011 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The North Carolina Council of Churches is a member of the Together NC Coalition. In light of the current state budget crisis, the coalition is offering concerned citizens one way […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Civil Discourse, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Farmworkers, Good Government, Housing, Immigration, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Public Education, State Budget

2010 Session Wrap-Up

August 12, 2010 By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

Yesterday was the deadline for Governor Perdue to sign or veto bills passed by the General Assembly in the last weeks of the session. Interestingly, yesterday she let a bill become law without her signature.

Also in this Raleigh Report: Domestic Violence, Environment, Gambling, and more.

2010 Session Wrap-Up

August 12, 2010 by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

Yesterday was the deadline for Governor Perdue to sign or veto bills passed by the General Assembly in the last weeks of the session. Interestingly, yesterday she let a bill become law without her signature.

Also in this Raleigh Report: Domestic Violence, Environment, Gambling, and more.

Filed Under: Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Domestic Violence, Environment, Health, People with Disabilities

Raleigh Report: General Assembly Addressing Childhood Obesity

June 28, 2010 By chris

Unfortunately, the childhood obesity epidemic is drastically affecting North Carolina. In 2009, North Carolina ranked 14th worst in the nation in childhood overweight and obesity for children ages 10-17, with more than one-third (33.5%) of our children being overweight or obese.

Also in this Raleigh Report: Domestic Violence, Environment, Gambling, Health, Housing, People with Disabilities, Public Education, and more.

Raleigh Report: General Assembly Addressing Childhood Obesity

June 28, 2010 by chris

Unfortunately, the childhood obesity epidemic is drastically affecting North Carolina. In 2009, North Carolina ranked 14th worst in the nation in childhood overweight and obesity for children ages 10-17, with more than one-third (33.5%) of our children being overweight or obese.

Also in this Raleigh Report: Domestic Violence, Environment, Gambling, Health, Housing, People with Disabilities, Public Education, and more.

Filed Under: Raleigh Report Tagged With: Domestic Violence, Environment, Health, Housing, People with Disabilities, Public Education

Short Session Convenes, Senate Adopts Budget in Record Speed

May 27, 2010 By chris

The summer’s “short session” of the North Carolina General Assembly convened on May 12, a continuation of the 2009 session. Its primary task will be to adjust the 2010-11 budget adopted last year, though it can also take up bills that made it through one house last year, bills coming from study commissions, and bills amending the state Constitution.

Short Session Convenes, Senate Adopts Budget in Record Speed

May 27, 2010 by chris

The summer’s “short session” of the North Carolina General Assembly convened on May 12, a continuation of the 2009 session. Its primary task will be to adjust the 2010-11 budget adopted last year, though it can also take up bills that made it through one house last year, bills coming from study commissions, and bills amending the state Constitution.

Filed Under: Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Economic Justice, Environment, Health, Immigration, People with Disabilities, Public Education, State Budget

A Sermonic Feast

December 9, 2009 By chris

Rev. Dr. Jill Crainshaw, Wake Forest Divinity School (Winston-Salem)

We were an eclectic bunch—divinity school professor, mother of children with special needs, teacher of teenagers, woman who battles Lupus, man who is legally blind, and teacher who has a rare type of epilepsy. All of the students but one are enrolled in, or have graduated from, our Masters of Divinity degree program. Each week of Summer Session II, we discussed a book about ministry, theology, and disabilities.

A Sermonic Feast

December 9, 2009 by chris

Rev. Dr. Jill Crainshaw, Wake Forest Divinity School (Winston-Salem)

We were an eclectic bunch—divinity school professor, mother of children with special needs, teacher of teenagers, woman who battles Lupus, man who is legally blind, and teacher who has a rare type of epilepsy. All of the students but one are enrolled in, or have graduated from, our Masters of Divinity degree program. Each week of Summer Session II, we discussed a book about ministry, theology, and disabilities.

Filed Under: Sermons Tagged With: People with Disabilities

Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Abuse Services

November 9, 2000 By North Carolina Council of Churches

In North Carolina, over 1,000,000 people are directly affected by mental illness, developmental disabilities, or substance abuse. In recent years, the state and area agencies responsible for providing assistance have been plagued with a host of problems, including woefully inadequate funding, unconscionable delays in services, and appearances and allegations of mismanagement.

Providing the needed supports and services for vulnerable individuals is a critical role for state government and society in general.  Without needed resources, people with disabilities and substance abuse problems go unserved or untreated.  Not only does this create untold suffering amongst the individuals and their families, but it also places enormous strain on other institutions and systems (prisons, hospitals, homeless shelters, etc.).  Proper support, service, and treatment can and will change the dynamics of our families and communities.

Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Abuse Services

November 9, 2000 by North Carolina Council of Churches

In North Carolina, over 1,000,000 people are directly affected by mental illness, developmental disabilities, or substance abuse. In recent years, the state and area agencies responsible for providing assistance have been plagued with a host of problems, including woefully inadequate funding, unconscionable delays in services, and appearances and allegations of mismanagement.

Providing the needed supports and services for vulnerable individuals is a critical role for state government and society in general.  Without needed resources, people with disabilities and substance abuse problems go unserved or untreated.  Not only does this create untold suffering amongst the individuals and their families, but it also places enormous strain on other institutions and systems (prisons, hospitals, homeless shelters, etc.).  Proper support, service, and treatment can and will change the dynamics of our families and communities.

Filed Under: Issue Statements Tagged With: Economic Justice, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Substance Abuse

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