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Community Services Around the State to Remember 9/11

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Pictured left, St. Paul's Chapel became a refuge for rescue workers after September 11.

The tenth anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks is next month, and it happens to fall on a Sunday. The NC Council of Churches has already posted some resources for worship planners, and there are a couple more links at the end of this blog. We also want to make you aware of community services which are being planned.

Community Services Around the State to Remember 9/11

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Pictured left, St. Paul’s Chapel became a refuge for rescue workers after September 11.

The tenth anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks is next month, and it happens to fall on a Sunday. The NC Council of Churches has already posted some resources for worship planners, and there are a couple more links at the end of this blog. We also want to make you aware of community services which are being planned.

Artists for Abraham Jam Announced

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

I’m thrilled to report the good news that we’ve lined up firm commitments for the musicians performing at the Nov. 16 Abraham Jam at Duke University’s Page Auditorium. Here are the artists: Dan Nichols and Eighteen Dawud Wharnsby David LaMotte These three internationally touring acts will share their music, and several regional performance poets will share […]

Artists for Abraham Jam Announced

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

I’m thrilled to report the good news that we’ve lined up firm commitments for the musicians performing at the Nov. 16 Abraham Jam at Duke University’s Page Auditorium. Here are the artists: Dan Nichols and Eighteen Dawud Wharnsby David LaMotte These three internationally touring acts will share their music, and several regional performance poets will share […]

Proper 24, Year A

By chris

The payment of taxes is one of the ways we demonstrate we are an extended family as citizens of this state and nation. While we hardly agree on how much we should be taxed, or how our taxes should be used, there is agreement that the burden falls to all of us in some measure. But here is where my family metaphor breaks down in discussing tax policy. Whereas we would never expect a family member with few resources to pay as much of his or her money for the family’s living expenses as another family member with greater resources, our current tax system does just that. Or worse.

Proper 24, Year A

by chris

The payment of taxes is one of the ways we demonstrate we are an extended family as citizens of this state and nation. While we hardly agree on how much we should be taxed, or how our taxes should be used, there is agreement that the burden falls to all of us in some measure. But here is where my family metaphor breaks down in discussing tax policy. Whereas we would never expect a family member with few resources to pay as much of his or her money for the family’s living expenses as another family member with greater resources, our current tax system does just that. Or worse.

Partners in Health and Wholeness Launches Information Webinar

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches wants you to know how important it is to view health as a faith issue.  Please join our free introductory short webinar about Partners in Health and Wholeness and why health is a faith issue on September 16th from 11 -11:45am.   You can also check out our interactive website. Partners […]

Partners in Health and Wholeness Launches Information Webinar

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches wants you to know how important it is to view health as a faith issue.  Please join our free introductory short webinar about Partners in Health and Wholeness and why health is a faith issue on September 16th from 11 -11:45am.   You can also check out our interactive website. Partners […]

The Cost of Obesity

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

Last week, I wrote briefly on the efforts local churches in Mississippi have made to improve the health of their communities. Unfortunately, our nation is trending in the opposite, less-healthy direction. A recent report on the international obesity crisis from The Lancet states that half of U.S. adults will qualify as obese by 2030. That’s […]

The Cost of Obesity

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

Last week, I wrote briefly on the efforts local churches in Mississippi have made to improve the health of their communities. Unfortunately, our nation is trending in the opposite, less-healthy direction. A recent report on the international obesity crisis from The Lancet states that half of U.S. adults will qualify as obese by 2030. That’s […]

Watch the Webinar: How to Use “Becoming the Church Together”

By chris

This is a recorded webinar that took place on Aug. 29, 2011. The purpose of this webinar is to help viewers get a sense for what is included in the curriculum and how to use it in your own unique setting. You'll also hear from an NC pastor about her experience using this curriculum at her church.

Watch the Webinar: How to Use “Becoming the Church Together”

by chris

This is a recorded webinar that took place on Aug. 29, 2011. The purpose of this webinar is to help viewers get a sense for what is included in the curriculum and how to use it in your own unique setting. You’ll also hear from an NC pastor about her experience using this curriculum at her church.

Join the DREAM Sabbath

By chris

From September 16th to October 9th, congregations across the United States will lift up the lives of DREAM students in prayers, readings, reflection and education during at least one Sabbath service as a way to help educate and spread awareness of DREAM students and their hopes to attain full recognition of their contributions to this country. The large showing of support by faith groups will hopefully continue to build momentum for the DREAM Act in Congress.

Join the DREAM Sabbath

by chris

From September 16th to October 9th, congregations across the United States will lift up the lives of DREAM students in prayers, readings, reflection and education during at least one Sabbath service as a way to help educate and spread awareness of DREAM students and their hopes to attain full recognition of their contributions to this country. The large showing of support by faith groups will hopefully continue to build momentum for the DREAM Act in Congress.

Interfaith Event – Your Opinion?

By David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

Your opinion is valued as we try to pick a title for the upcoming Triangle Interfaith event at Duke. What do you think?

Interfaith Event – Your Opinion?

by David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

Your opinion is valued as we try to pick a title for the upcoming Triangle Interfaith event at Duke. What do you think?

Remembering Public Schools with Prayer and Action

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Schools across North Carolina are opening in the face of substantial budget cuts. All those touched by public education are affected; in particular, children and families who have the least also have the most to lose. Even those not being served directly by the state’s public education system are touched by the young people who progress through it. […]

Remembering Public Schools with Prayer and Action

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Schools across North Carolina are opening in the face of substantial budget cuts. All those touched by public education are affected; in particular, children and families who have the least also have the most to lose. Even those not being served directly by the state’s public education system are touched by the young people who progress through it. […]

Improving the Health of Communities from Within

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

“I’ve been eating this way my entire life.” “It tastes better this way.” “This is how we’ve always done it.” Statements like these are how many support their less-than-healthy eating habits. However, in these days of bleak health statistics about obesity, diabetes, and lowered life expectancies, improving our habits is becoming essential rather than optional. […]

Improving the Health of Communities from Within

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

“I’ve been eating this way my entire life.” “It tastes better this way.” “This is how we’ve always done it.” Statements like these are how many support their less-than-healthy eating habits. However, in these days of bleak health statistics about obesity, diabetes, and lowered life expectancies, improving our habits is becoming essential rather than optional. […]

New Immigration Curriculum: Becoming the Church Together

By chris

The NC Council of Churches is pleased to announce the publication of a brand new biblically based curriculum on immigration issues, entitled Becoming the Church Together: Immigration, the Bible & Our New Neighbors. Designed to facilitate constructive discussion, this flexible curriculum guides small groups through the many aspects of this topic with an emphasis on studying the Bible together.

New Immigration Curriculum: Becoming the Church Together

by chris

The NC Council of Churches is pleased to announce the publication of a brand new biblically based curriculum on immigration issues, entitled Becoming the Church Together: Immigration, the Bible & Our New Neighbors. Designed to facilitate constructive discussion, this flexible curriculum guides small groups through the many aspects of this topic with an emphasis on studying the Bible together.

Rural Life Committee Releases Statement on Hydraulic Fracturing in North Carolina

By chris

The Rural Life Committee of the North Carolina Council of Churches has issued a statement supporting the ban on hydraulic drilling in the state. Citing the lack of research on horizontal hydraulic fracturing, the experiences of rural landowners affected by gas drilling, and the potential impacts on rural communities, the committee warned that the risk posed by “fracking” is unacceptably high. The committee also warned about the dangers of exploitation.

Rural Life Committee Releases Statement on Hydraulic Fracturing in North Carolina

by chris

The Rural Life Committee of the North Carolina Council of Churches has issued a statement supporting the ban on hydraulic drilling in the state. Citing the lack of research on horizontal hydraulic fracturing, the experiences of rural landowners affected by gas drilling, and the potential impacts on rural communities, the committee warned that the risk posed by “fracking” is unacceptably high. The committee also warned about the dangers of exploitation.

Proper 21, Year A

By chris

This is the purpose of education wherever it takes place, moving beyond rote repetition to provide each learner the possibility of a future better than what might otherwise be expected. Psalm 78 invites humility, gratitude, and “the exercise of power in the form of love, not of force.

Proper 21, Year A

by chris

This is the purpose of education wherever it takes place, moving beyond rote repetition to provide each learner the possibility of a future better than what might otherwise be expected. Psalm 78 invites humility, gratitude, and “the exercise of power in the form of love, not of force.

New Documentary: Harvest of Dignity

By chris

Harvest of Dignity is a new, original documentary created in 2011. It focuses on the lives and work of farmworkers in North Carolina, providing an in-depth portrait of the people who harvest our food today. It combines interviews with North Carolina farmworkers, advocates, faith leaders and educators, documentary photos and interviews collected by Student Action with Farmworkers interns and clips from the original Harvest of Shame documentary.

New Documentary: Harvest of Dignity

by chris

Harvest of Dignity is a new, original documentary created in 2011. It focuses on the lives and work of farmworkers in North Carolina, providing an in-depth portrait of the people who harvest our food today. It combines interviews with North Carolina farmworkers, advocates, faith leaders and educators, documentary photos and interviews collected by Student Action with Farmworkers interns and clips from the original Harvest of Shame documentary.

Raleigh News & Observer: Community gardens are in residents’ hands

By chris

The Council has long been touting the benefits of community gardening in both urban and rural settings alike. Community gardens offer healthy local foods that are often more nutritious than their grocery-story or food-bank counterparts. Gardens also help community members become more active, and they are a great way for congregations, local organizations and neighborhoods to collaborate together. Last Sunday the Raleigh News & Observer highlighted this growing movement, using the example of Highland United Methodist Church.

Raleigh News & Observer: Community gardens are in residents’ hands

by chris

The Council has long been touting the benefits of community gardening in both urban and rural settings alike. Community gardens offer healthy local foods that are often more nutritious than their grocery-story or food-bank counterparts. Gardens also help community members become more active, and they are a great way for congregations, local organizations and neighborhoods to collaborate together. Last Sunday the Raleigh News & Observer highlighted this growing movement, using the example of Highland United Methodist Church.

Rural Life Committee Supports Ban on Fracking

By North Carolina Council of Churches

The experiences of landowners in other states indicate that hydraulic fracturing can have profound negative impacts on rural communities. The Rural Life Committee of the North Carolina Council of Churches supports the current ban on hydraulic fracturing in North Carolina. The above concerns need to be addressed with careful attention to landowners' property, landowners' rights, and the care for creation's gifts. Furthermore, we call on our member bodies and faith leaders to share reliable information about hydraulic fracturing with their communities. We believe that we are called by God to be good stewards of the good gifts of community, health, water and soil. Trusting in God, we refuse to trade this bountiful inheritance for the empty promises of energy that may be cheap in terms of dollars but which we know will be costly in terms of our livelihoods.

Rural Life Committee Supports Ban on Fracking

by North Carolina Council of Churches

The experiences of landowners in other states indicate that hydraulic fracturing can have profound negative impacts on rural communities. The Rural Life Committee of the North Carolina Council of Churches supports the current ban on hydraulic fracturing in North Carolina. The above concerns need to be addressed with careful attention to landowners’ property, landowners’ rights, and the care for creation’s gifts. Furthermore, we call on our member bodies and faith leaders to share reliable information about hydraulic fracturing with their communities. We believe that we are called by God to be good stewards of the good gifts of community, health, water and soil. Trusting in God, we refuse to trade this bountiful inheritance for the empty promises of energy that may be cheap in terms of dollars but which we know will be costly in terms of our livelihoods.

Food or Medicine?

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

Buy food or buy medicine?  That’s the choice that far too many uninsured individuals face every day, but our friends at NC MedAssist – a statewide non-profit pharmacy providing FREE prescription medicines to low-income, uninsured North Carolinians – are here to solve the dilemma.  Below, is a message from one of their representatives: “There are […]

Food or Medicine?

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

Buy food or buy medicine?  That’s the choice that far too many uninsured individuals face every day, but our friends at NC MedAssist – a statewide non-profit pharmacy providing FREE prescription medicines to low-income, uninsured North Carolinians – are here to solve the dilemma.  Below, is a message from one of their representatives: “There are […]

Proper 20, Year A

By chris

In Jesus’ economics, the one represented here by the generous landowner, all workers received the pay they needed in order to survive, even if it seemed unfair to those who had worked all day. Sabbath economics is Jesus economics. As Ched Myers notes, Sabbath economics is about the grace of receiving what the Creator (employer) gives and the responsibility not to take more than is needed. Wide gaps between rich and poor are not part of God’s plan, and God’s people are called to be part of God’s generosity so that all have enough on which to live.

Proper 20, Year A

by chris

In Jesus’ economics, the one represented here by the generous landowner, all workers received the pay they needed in order to survive, even if it seemed unfair to those who had worked all day. Sabbath economics is Jesus economics. As Ched Myers notes, Sabbath economics is about the grace of receiving what the Creator (employer) gives and the responsibility not to take more than is needed. Wide gaps between rich and poor are not part of God’s plan, and God’s people are called to be part of God’s generosity so that all have enough on which to live.

NC Marks Five Years Without an Execution

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

People of Faith Against the Death Penalty notes an important milestone for the state today. It has been five years since North Carolina carried out an execution. The Council has long been committed to abolitioning the death penalty and even gave PFADP a start organizationally. What has been accomplished is extraordinary, but the work is not […]

NC Marks Five Years Without an Execution

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

People of Faith Against the Death Penalty notes an important milestone for the state today. It has been five years since North Carolina carried out an execution. The Council has long been committed to abolitioning the death penalty and even gave PFADP a start organizationally. What has been accomplished is extraordinary, but the work is not […]

The Debt Deal — What it Was and What it Could Have Been

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

You can educate yourself about the ” debt deal” and how it affects the most vunerable and learn how the faith community played a role in keeping it from being worse than it is. View and listen to the recording of “What’s the Deal?” – an excellent webinar, offered by the Interreligious Working Group on […]

The Debt Deal — What it Was and What it Could Have Been

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

You can educate yourself about the ” debt deal” and how it affects the most vunerable and learn how the faith community played a role in keeping it from being worse than it is. View and listen to the recording of “What’s the Deal?” – an excellent webinar, offered by the Interreligious Working Group on […]

Concrete Problems, Concrete Solutions

By Lee Foster, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

While it is true that central to Christian theology is the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, it would be erroneous to reduce the whole of Christian theology to a set of beliefs. If one surveys the gospels, then a person will find Jesus both expounding upon theology and liberating people. For those who were sick, he cured them of their sickness. For those who were blind, he gave them sight. For those who were saddened, he comforted them. Jesus gave concrete solutions to the problems that people faced in the 1st century and did not merely offer them a set of beliefs.

Concrete Problems, Concrete Solutions

by Lee Foster, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

While it is true that central to Christian theology is the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, it would be erroneous to reduce the whole of Christian theology to a set of beliefs. If one surveys the gospels, then a person will find Jesus both expounding upon theology and liberating people. For those who were sick, he cured them of their sickness. For those who were blind, he gave them sight. For those who were saddened, he comforted them. Jesus gave concrete solutions to the problems that people faced in the 1st century and did not merely offer them a set of beliefs.

Your Faith Community’s Health Advantage

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For anyone who has ever been frustrated when trying to increase their exercising or improve their diet, Matthew Feinstein has a suggestion for you. Go to church!  Feinstein, lead investigator in a recent religion and obesity study writes: “Churches already have infrastructures in place, groups of people gathering regularly and providing social support. That’s hugely […]

Your Faith Community’s Health Advantage

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For anyone who has ever been frustrated when trying to increase their exercising or improve their diet, Matthew Feinstein has a suggestion for you. Go to church!  Feinstein, lead investigator in a recent religion and obesity study writes: “Churches already have infrastructures in place, groups of people gathering regularly and providing social support. That’s hugely […]

Get Out and Play!

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

Our friends at Be Active North Carolina are challenging churches and other community groups to join the fight against childhood obesity by creating organized events where people can get out and play.  North Carolina Play Daze is the official name of this statewide campaign to promote physical activity, and your church can show your support […]

Get Out and Play!

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

Our friends at Be Active North Carolina are challenging churches and other community groups to join the fight against childhood obesity by creating organized events where people can get out and play.  North Carolina Play Daze is the official name of this statewide campaign to promote physical activity, and your church can show your support […]

Stocks and Starvation

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

I watched the stock market pretty closely on Monday. (Don’t tell the boss, but I did it on work time and on the office computer.) You see, I’m at that delicate age when I should be moving my retirement money into less risky places. I had met just over a week before with a representative of […]

Stocks and Starvation

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

I watched the stock market pretty closely on Monday. (Don’t tell the boss, but I did it on work time and on the office computer.) You see, I’m at that delicate age when I should be moving my retirement money into less risky places. I had met just over a week before with a representative of […]

My First Job

By Keith Gustine, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

My first job was as a machine shop shipping clerk. I was probably a little young, but during the summer I was able to earn a few bucks and develop a taste for new and shiny bicycle parts. However, it wasn’t the money or what the money bought me that has lasted. When I think about that time, my friends and the people I worked with were a highlight.

My First Job

by Keith Gustine, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

My first job was as a machine shop shipping clerk. I was probably a little young, but during the summer I was able to earn a few bucks and develop a taste for new and shiny bicycle parts. However, it wasn’t the money or what the money bought me that has lasted. When I think about that time, my friends and the people I worked with were a highlight.

Youth Empowerment Training: Laurinburg

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) held our first joint training with Youth Empowered Solutions (YES!) on Saturday, August 6, in Scotland County.  There were valuable opportunities to network with other churches and organizations to promote a growth in organizational capacity.  We also shared challenges and advice in program coordination.  As a team, we problem […]

Youth Empowerment Training: Laurinburg

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) held our first joint training with Youth Empowered Solutions (YES!) on Saturday, August 6, in Scotland County.  There were valuable opportunities to network with other churches and organizations to promote a growth in organizational capacity.  We also shared challenges and advice in program coordination.  As a team, we problem […]

Resources for Remembering 9/11

By chris

In one month, our country will mark the 10th anniversary of the attacks on our nation on 9/11. Many denominations, faith groups and religious organizations have prepared materials for use in community gatherings and worship services in congregations – click here for links to those resources. You will also find pastoral care materials and age appropriate resources for children.

Resources for Remembering 9/11

by chris

In one month, our country will mark the 10th anniversary of the attacks on our nation on 9/11. Many denominations, faith groups and religious organizations have prepared materials for use in community gatherings and worship services in congregations – click here for links to those resources. You will also find pastoral care materials and age appropriate resources for children.

The Parable Garden

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

Looking for a little inspiration to plant a garden at your church or in your community?  Have questions about the whole process or need a little grant money to get you started?  Well, keep reading….  A United Methodist church in Hickory, NC and the First Lady’s Let’s Move Faith and Communities Initiative might have just […]

The Parable Garden

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

Looking for a little inspiration to plant a garden at your church or in your community?  Have questions about the whole process or need a little grant money to get you started?  Well, keep reading….  A United Methodist church in Hickory, NC and the First Lady’s Let’s Move Faith and Communities Initiative might have just […]

Proper 19, Year A

By chris

In a community of Christians, the hopeful possibilities present in conflict will only be realized when we deal with the tension in a productive way. When a congregation faces conflict openly and directly with the people involved, there is a good opportunity for the situation to result in positive change and closer relationships between people. When conflict is handled in a way that cuts off communication and silences questions, the conflict can escalate and become destructive.

Proper 19, Year A

by chris

In a community of Christians, the hopeful possibilities present in conflict will only be realized when we deal with the tension in a productive way. When a congregation faces conflict openly and directly with the people involved, there is a good opportunity for the situation to result in positive change and closer relationships between people. When conflict is handled in a way that cuts off communication and silences questions, the conflict can escalate and become destructive.

Raleigh Report – August 5, 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

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.

Durham Immigration Clergy Lunch Wrap-Up

By chris

Last month the NC Council of Churches partnered with Duke Divinity School’s Summer Course of Study to offer a clergy lunch on immigration issues. Ismael Ruiz-Millán, Director of the Divinity School’s Hispanic House of Studies, spoke about the need for churches to offer hospitality over hostility in these fraught times: “Remember, when one part of […]

Durham Immigration Clergy Lunch Wrap-Up

by chris

Last month the NC Council of Churches partnered with Duke Divinity School’s Summer Course of Study to offer a clergy lunch on immigration issues. Ismael Ruiz-Millán, Director of the Divinity School’s Hispanic House of Studies, spoke about the need for churches to offer hospitality over hostility in these fraught times: “Remember, when one part of […]

Workers Are Worth Their Keep

By chris

A Theological Companion to Making Ends Meet After the Great Recession: The 2010 Living Income Standard

This new resource is meant to bring the issue of wages into conversation with theological perspectives of economic justice. Workers Are Worth Their Keep is divided into three main sections. The first section highlights passages from the Bible that speak directly about economic justice, fair pay for workers, and the call of God to treat workers with dignity. The second section examines the perspectives of several major figures from Christian traditions. While their contexts vary greatly, their voices converge around the calling to pay workers wages that are fair and just. The third and final section of this resource quotes from official statements from many of the denominations represented in the NC Council of Churches.

Workers Are Worth Their Keep

by chris

A Theological Companion to Making Ends Meet After the Great Recession: The 2010 Living Income Standard

This new resource is meant to bring the issue of wages into conversation with theological perspectives of economic justice. Workers Are Worth Their Keep is divided into three main sections. The first section highlights passages from the Bible that speak directly about economic justice, fair pay for workers, and the call of God to treat workers with dignity. The second section examines the perspectives of several major figures from Christian traditions. While their contexts vary greatly, their voices converge around the calling to pay workers wages that are fair and just. The third and final section of this resource quotes from official statements from many of the denominations represented in the NC Council of Churches.

Give Us Wisdom

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The news these days is filled with budget cuts, both at the state level and with the ongoing mess in Washington. These cuts unduly affect vulnerable people and care of God’s creation, concerns which the NC Council of Churches has worked on for years or even decades. Cathy Tamsberg, the associate pastor of my church (Pullen […]

Give Us Wisdom

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The news these days is filled with budget cuts, both at the state level and with the ongoing mess in Washington. These cuts unduly affect vulnerable people and care of God’s creation, concerns which the NC Council of Churches has worked on for years or even decades. Cathy Tamsberg, the associate pastor of my church (Pullen […]

Clergy Lunch on Immigration: Salisbury

By chris

This year, the NC Council of Churches is continuing its successful statewide series of “Clergy Lunches” on immigration. These events are geared towards busy religious professionals and faith leaders, and they provide an overview of immigration issues in the context of a great networking event (and free lunch!).  To date, over 500 NC clergy and faith leaders have participated […]

Clergy Lunch on Immigration: Salisbury

by chris

This year, the NC Council of Churches is continuing its successful statewide series of “Clergy Lunches” on immigration. These events are geared towards busy religious professionals and faith leaders, and they provide an overview of immigration issues in the context of a great networking event (and free lunch!).  To date, over 500 NC clergy and faith leaders have participated […]

Youth Empowerment Training for Clergy: Eastover

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW), in partnership with Youth Empowered Solutions, will hold its second youth empowerment training for clergy and other adults who work with youth on Saturday, September 17, 2011 from 10am-2pm in Eastover, NC.  Clergy will learn how to motivate youth to create positive community change through strong health advocacy.  Examples […]

Youth Empowerment Training for Clergy: Eastover

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW), in partnership with Youth Empowered Solutions, will hold its second youth empowerment training for clergy and other adults who work with youth on Saturday, September 17, 2011 from 10am-2pm in Eastover, NC.  Clergy will learn how to motivate youth to create positive community change through strong health advocacy.  Examples […]

People of Faith Must Speak Up

By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

We can't speak up for poor people without speaking up to the powerful, writes Rev. Joel Edwards, director of Micah Challenge International. PEOPLE OF FAITH MUST SPEAK UP! Please take action today... and invite you friends and family to join you!

People of Faith Must Speak Up

by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

We can’t speak up for poor people without speaking up to the powerful, writes Rev. Joel Edwards, director of Micah Challenge International. PEOPLE OF FAITH MUST SPEAK UP! Please take action today… and invite you friends and family to join you!

Tell Your Story to Help Medicaid and Medicare

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

I was on a Faithful Reform in Health Care conference call this week and one of the participants was Cynthia Abrams from the United Methodist Church — General Board of Church and Society. She emphasized the need to share our personal stories with our Congress people. If you have a personal story about how Medicaid […]

Tell Your Story to Help Medicaid and Medicare

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

I was on a Faithful Reform in Health Care conference call this week and one of the participants was Cynthia Abrams from the United Methodist Church — General Board of Church and Society. She emphasized the need to share our personal stories with our Congress people. If you have a personal story about how Medicaid […]

Free Youth Empowerment Training for Clergy

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness, in partnership with Youth Empowered Solutions, will provide FREE TRAININGS to clergy and other adults who work with youth to create positive community change through strong health advocacy, particularly as it relates to increasing access to healthy foods, physical activity and tobacco use prevention. The date, time and location of the first training

Free Youth Empowerment Training for Clergy

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness, in partnership with Youth Empowered Solutions, will provide FREE TRAININGS to clergy and other adults who work with youth to create positive community change through strong health advocacy, particularly as it relates to increasing access to healthy foods, physical activity and tobacco use prevention. The date, time and location of the first training

Proper 16, Year A

By chris

Much of the book of Romans is given over to some pretty heavy theological work. What is the meaning of God’s righteousness? Where does Israel fit into this? What about justification by faith? What happens to the Mosaic law? What role does grace play? Heavy questions facing the newly developing church in the First Century.

Proper 16, Year A

by chris

Much of the book of Romans is given over to some pretty heavy theological work. What is the meaning of God’s righteousness? Where does Israel fit into this? What about justification by faith? What happens to the Mosaic law? What role does grace play? Heavy questions facing the newly developing church in the First Century.

Being Consumed by Our Food

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

It should be no surprise to anyone that obesity rates in the United States are still rising, as a recent report emphasized by giving America an “F” as in fat. Neither should it be too surprising that the rates of increase seem to be leveling out in the last couple of years. Various public leaders, […]

Being Consumed by Our Food

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

It should be no surprise to anyone that obesity rates in the United States are still rising, as a recent report emphasized by giving America an “F” as in fat. Neither should it be too surprising that the rates of increase seem to be leveling out in the last couple of years. Various public leaders, […]

Baseball Strikes Out on Immigration

By Keith Gustine, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

Major League baseball player and All-Star Adrian Gonzalez, said last year that the anti-immigration law in Arizona was cause for boycotting the 2011 All-Star Game in Phoenix.  A year later, however, the first baseman from Tijuana decided “It’s not something I am going to get into.” Baseball has a long, but often forgotten, relationship with […]

Baseball Strikes Out on Immigration

by Keith Gustine, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

Major League baseball player and All-Star Adrian Gonzalez, said last year that the anti-immigration law in Arizona was cause for boycotting the 2011 All-Star Game in Phoenix.  A year later, however, the first baseman from Tijuana decided “It’s not something I am going to get into.” Baseball has a long, but often forgotten, relationship with […]

Conversations with Cy and Carolyn King

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Cy and Carolyn King, longtime activists with the NC Council of Churches, have given interviews on the history of the struggle for civil rights in North Carolina.  The primary focus of these conversations is on civil rights activities in the 1950s and 1960s. Other topics include the Institute of Religion at Community UCC (the Raleigh church which […]

Conversations with Cy and Carolyn King

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Cy and Carolyn King, longtime activists with the NC Council of Churches, have given interviews on the history of the struggle for civil rights in North Carolina.  The primary focus of these conversations is on civil rights activities in the 1950s and 1960s. Other topics include the Institute of Religion at Community UCC (the Raleigh church which […]

George Reed’s Remarks from Mowbray Presentation

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On June 24, NC Council of Churches Executive Director George Reed received the Luke Mowbray Award presented by the American Baptist Churches USA. His remarks from the presentation are below. The national honor is given to an individual for his or her outstanding contribution to the cause of advancing ecumenism either through sustained performance or […]

George Reed’s Remarks from Mowbray Presentation

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On June 24, NC Council of Churches Executive Director George Reed received the Luke Mowbray Award presented by the American Baptist Churches USA. His remarks from the presentation are below. The national honor is given to an individual for his or her outstanding contribution to the cause of advancing ecumenism either through sustained performance or […]

Help Protect Medicaid and Medicare

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 to be imminent, and the voice of the faith community is needed to help protect these programs which serve our most vulnerable citizens. Our leaders […]

Help Protect Medicaid and Medicare

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 to be imminent, and the voice of the faith community is needed to help protect these programs which serve our most vulnerable citizens. Our leaders […]

Standing with the Dreamers

By chris

The Raleigh News & Observer recently featured a front-page story about how students are organizing in support of the Dream Act. Here at the Council, we’re excited to see this generation of young people come out of the shadows and stand against unjust immigration policies that separate families and undermine access to education. At the same time, we know these students are taking huge risks in revealing their status.

Standing with the Dreamers

by chris

The Raleigh News & Observer recently featured a front-page story about how students are organizing in support of the Dream Act. Here at the Council, we’re excited to see this generation of young people come out of the shadows and stand against unjust immigration policies that separate families and undermine access to education. At the same time, we know these students are taking huge risks in revealing their status.

Bishop Curry Interviews Dr. Kathy Shea about NC IPL

By chris

In a recent edition of Please Note, Bishop Michael Curry of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina interviewed Dr. Kathy Shea about her work as director of NC Interfaith Power & Light.

Bishop Curry Interviews Dr. Kathy Shea about NC IPL

In a recent edition of Please Note, Bishop Michael Curry of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina interviewed Dr. Kathy Shea about her work as director of NC Interfaith Power & Light.

Luke Mowbray Award Presented to George Reed

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

NC Council of Churches Executive Director George Reed has received the 2011 Luke Mowbray Ecumenical Award presented by the American Baptist Churches USA. The honor is given to an individual for his or her outstanding contribution to the cause of advancing ecumenism either through sustained performance or special achievement.

Luke Mowbray Award Presented to George Reed

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

NC Council of Churches Executive Director George Reed has received the 2011 Luke Mowbray Ecumenical Award presented by the American Baptist Churches USA. The honor is given to an individual for his or her outstanding contribution to the cause of advancing ecumenism either through sustained performance or special achievement.

A Curious Shuffle in Georgia’s Farms

By Keith Gustine, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

Governor Deal believes ex-convicts on Georgia farms can fill 11,000 jobs opened by the state’s new harsh immigration law. The law authorizes all law enforcement to detain immigrants and that has scared away the undocumented workers who attended the fields beforehand. With unemployment hitting a critical high among citizens on probation, it seems the Governor sees the solution as a simple switch. But how many ex-convicts have gone out to the farms looking for work? If the potential workers who are on probation are not presently looking for those jobs, will this group migrate to the farms, because the Governor says so?

A Curious Shuffle in Georgia’s Farms

by Keith Gustine, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

Governor Deal believes ex-convicts on Georgia farms can fill 11,000 jobs opened by the state’s new harsh immigration law. The law authorizes all law enforcement to detain immigrants and that has scared away the undocumented workers who attended the fields beforehand. With unemployment hitting a critical high among citizens on probation, it seems the Governor sees the solution as a simple switch. But how many ex-convicts have gone out to the farms looking for work? If the potential workers who are on probation are not presently looking for those jobs, will this group migrate to the farms, because the Governor says so?

Why Acts of Faith is Important

By Lee Foster, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

Growing up in church, it would be fair for me to say that most sermons I heard were either concerned with A) theology or B) decrying certain practices in our contemporary Western culture. Neither of these is wrong or unimportant, as theology is the bedrock of faith, and there is much to decry in the world. The one thing I rarely heard preached on, however, was issues of social justice. And when preached on, it was through standard channels—witnessing/evangelism, donating food and clothing to our church’s pantry, and giving offerings. These are all well and good, but can we do more than these traditional categories?

Why Acts of Faith is Important

by Lee Foster, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

Growing up in church, it would be fair for me to say that most sermons I heard were either concerned with A) theology or B) decrying certain practices in our contemporary Western culture. Neither of these is wrong or unimportant, as theology is the bedrock of faith, and there is much to decry in the world. The one thing I rarely heard preached on, however, was issues of social justice. And when preached on, it was through standard channels—witnessing/evangelism, donating food and clothing to our church’s pantry, and giving offerings. These are all well and good, but can we do more than these traditional categories?

Wild Goose Festival a Great Success

By David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

The Wild Goose has flown, at least for the 2011 season. The overwhelming consensus among attendees of the inaugural Wild Goose Festival is that it was quite a successful experiment.  People traveled from as far away as Scotland and New Zealand to be part of the event, and presenters ranging from Vincent Harding to Jim Wallis, musicians from Michelle Shocked to Beth Nielsen Chapman—each contributed their own sparks to the thousands of spontaneous and rich conversations that arose between the roughly 1500 people who gathered in Silk Hope, North Carolina this weekend.

Wild Goose Festival a Great Success

by David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

The Wild Goose has flown, at least for the 2011 season.

The overwhelming consensus among attendees of the inaugural Wild Goose Festival is that it was quite a successful experiment.  People traveled from as far away as Scotland and New Zealand to be part of the event, and presenters ranging from Vincent Harding to Jim Wallis, musicians from Michelle Shocked to Beth Nielsen Chapman—each contributed their own sparks to the thousands of spontaneous and rich conversations that arose between the roughly 1500 people who gathered in Silk Hope, North Carolina this weekend.

Clergy Lunch on Immigration – Durham

By chris

This year, the NC Council of Churches is continuing its successful statewide series of "Clergy Lunches" on immigration. These events are geared towards busy religious professionals and faith leaders, and they provide an overview of immigration issues in the context of a great networking event (and free lunch!).  To date, over 450 NC clergy and faith leaders have participated in this series.

Clergy Lunch on Immigration – Durham

by chris

This year, the NC Council of Churches is continuing its successful statewide series of “Clergy Lunches” on immigration. These events are geared towards busy religious professionals and faith leaders, and they provide an overview of immigration issues in the context of a great networking event (and free lunch!).  To date, over 450 NC clergy and faith leaders have participated in this series.

A Pastor’s Calling to WORK for LGBT Inclusion

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Durham Herald-Sun

Jimmy Creech spent his career as an ordained United Methodist pastor until the church took his credentials away as punishment for conducting same sex commitment ceremonies in Omaha and Chapel Hill. He was not convicted at a trial in Nebraska in 1998, but he lost his church assignment and the stage was set for a second trial in 1999 after he officiated a ceremony at United Church of Chapel Hill. Since then he has been a leader of LGBT justice issues, retired to Raleigh and travels the country speaking. He also has written an account of the upheaval, "Adam's Gift: A Memoir of a Pastor's Calling to Defy the Church's Persecution of Lesbians and Gays." He'll speak about it Saturday at the Durham County Library Main Branch downtown.

A Pastor’s Calling to WORK for LGBT Inclusion

Durham Herald-Sun

Jimmy Creech spent his career as an ordained United Methodist pastor until the church took his credentials away as punishment for conducting same sex commitment ceremonies in Omaha and Chapel Hill.

He was not convicted at a trial in Nebraska in 1998, but he lost his church assignment and the stage was set for a second trial in 1999 after he officiated a ceremony at United Church of Chapel Hill. Since then he has been a leader of LGBT justice issues, retired to Raleigh and travels the country speaking. He also has written an account of the upheaval, “Adam’s Gift: A Memoir of a Pastor’s Calling to Defy the Church’s Persecution of Lesbians and Gays.” He’ll speak about it Saturday at the Durham County Library Main Branch downtown.

Mr. Paul and the Work of the Church

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Recently, the GOP held the first debate between Republican Presidential candidates. The stalwart libertarian from Texas, Ron Paul attended and according to the LA Times, won the debate. He may have alienated a few of the more conservative voters however, when he criticized the penalization of the “Catholic Church” for providing care for immigrants. As a […]

Mr. Paul and the Work of the Church

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Recently, the GOP held the first debate between Republican Presidential candidates. The stalwart libertarian from Texas, Ron Paul attended and according to the LA Times, won the debate. He may have alienated a few of the more conservative voters however, when he criticized the penalization of the “Catholic Church” for providing care for immigrants. As a […]

The NFL Needs Your Help to Combat Childhood Obesity

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

If your congregation is looking for a fun, creative way to combat childhood obesity, then the NFL – that’s right, the National Football League – has just the answer for you! The NFL is partnering with schools and community organizations, including churches, across the country to host a FREE skills competition for boys and girls ages 6 to 15 called, “Punt, Pass and Kick” (PPK).

The NFL Needs Your Help to Combat Childhood Obesity

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

If your congregation is looking for a fun, creative way to combat childhood obesity, then the NFL – that’s right, the National Football League – has just the answer for you! The NFL is partnering with schools and community organizations, including churches, across the country to host a FREE skills competition for boys and girls ages 6 to 15 called, “Punt, Pass and Kick” (PPK).

Raleigh Report – June 21, 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

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.

Truth About Climate Change

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

There was an important story on NPR’s Morning Edition today called “Climate Change: Public Skeptical, Scientists Sure.”  Only 13% of people polled by Yale University knew that 97% of the world’s scientists are convinced that the global climate change due to human activities  is not only real but also a BIG problem. The take home […]

Truth About Climate Change

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

There was an important story on NPR’s Morning Edition today called “Climate Change: Public Skeptical, Scientists Sure.”  Only 13% of people polled by Yale University knew that 97% of the world’s scientists are convinced that the global climate change due to human activities  is not only real but also a BIG problem. The take home […]

Left-leaning Christians to rally around ‘Wild Goose’

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

USA Today

DURHAM, N.C. — It's summer. It's hot. It's the South. That must mean it's time for an old-fashioned camp meeting. Starting Thursday, the bygone staple of the tent revival will be reincarnated on a bucolic North Carolina farm as The Wild Goose Festival. Nearly 10 years in the making, the festival is an attempt to reimagine Christianity for the 21st century under a bigger, wider more inclusive tent.

Left-leaning Christians to rally around ‘Wild Goose’

USA Today

DURHAM, N.C. — It’s summer. It’s hot. It’s the South.

That must mean it’s time for an old-fashioned camp meeting.

Starting Thursday, the bygone staple of the tent revival will be reincarnated on a bucolic North Carolina farm as The Wild Goose Festival. Nearly 10 years in the making, the festival is an attempt to reimagine Christianity for the 21st century under a bigger, wider more inclusive tent.

Take Action to Protect Medicaid

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Faithful Reform in Health Care is urging people of faith to act to protect Medicaid–health care for the voiceless and our most vulnerable citizens. This is our chance to be a voice for God’s children who often have no voice. Medicaid cuts are being considered in Congress that will hurt the sick, disabled and poorest […]

Take Action to Protect Medicaid

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Faithful Reform in Health Care is urging people of faith to act to protect Medicaid–health care for the voiceless and our most vulnerable citizens. This is our chance to be a voice for God’s children who often have no voice. Medicaid cuts are being considered in Congress that will hurt the sick, disabled and poorest […]

Tarheel Footprints in Health Care

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

North Carolina Medical Journal

The NCMJ features Dr. Kathy Shea, Executive Director of North Carolina Interfaith Power & Light, on page 87 of its March/April 2011 edition.

Tarheel Footprints in Health Care

North Carolina Medical Journal

The NCMJ features Dr. Kathy Shea, Executive Director of North Carolina Interfaith Power & Light, on page 87 of its March/April 2011 edition.

Wanted: 1,000 Pastors for the Poor

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Sojourners is calling on pastors to challenge the myth that charities and churches can solve the problems of poverty in this country. Six pastors have recently launched an “Open Letter from 1,000 Pastors” to let our political leaders know this isn’t true.  Sojourners reports that these “pastors believe that churches must provide strong leadership in responding to poverty, […]

Wanted: 1,000 Pastors for the Poor

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Sojourners is calling on pastors to challenge the myth that charities and churches can solve the problems of poverty in this country. Six pastors have recently launched an “Open Letter from 1,000 Pastors” to let our political leaders know this isn’t true.  Sojourners reports that these “pastors believe that churches must provide strong leadership in responding to poverty, […]

Welcome, Joy Williams!

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

The North Carolina Council of Churches is proud to welcome Joy Williams as our new Partners in Health and Wholeness Regional Consultant.  Joy will assist the Council in promoting health as a practice of our faith, focusing on program implementation in Anson, Bladen, Columbus, Cumberland, Montgomery, Richmond, Robeson and Scotland counties. To learn more about Joy […]

Welcome, Joy Williams!

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

The North Carolina Council of Churches is proud to welcome Joy Williams as our new Partners in Health and Wholeness Regional Consultant.  Joy will assist the Council in promoting health as a practice of our faith, focusing on program implementation in Anson, Bladen, Columbus, Cumberland, Montgomery, Richmond, Robeson and Scotland counties. To learn more about Joy […]

Enseñan las opciones legales

By chris

Qué Pasa Media Network

Winston-Salem - Las detenciones y deportaciones arbitrarias y el tráfico de personas, fueron los principales temas tratados durante un taller de trabajo sobre inmigración, que tuvo lugar en Saint Paul Episcopal Church de esta ciudad, bajo el auspicio del Consejo de Iglesias de Carolina del Norte.

Enseñan las opciones legales

Qué Pasa Media Network

Winston-Salem – Las detenciones y deportaciones arbitrarias y el tráfico de personas, fueron los principales temas tratados durante un taller de trabajo sobre inmigración, que tuvo lugar en Saint Paul Episcopal Church de esta ciudad, bajo el auspicio del Consejo de Iglesias de Carolina del Norte.

Proper 10, Year A

By chris

It's strange that despite earlier reforms, a country which took such richness from Appalachia left so little for the people. Great fortunes were built on the exploitation of Appalachian workers and Appalachian resources; yet the land was left without revenues to care for its social needs, like education, welfare, old age, and illness.

Proper 10, Year A

by chris

It’s strange that despite earlier reforms, a country which took such richness from Appalachia left so little for the people. Great fortunes were built on the exploitation of Appalachian workers and Appalachian resources; yet the land was left without revenues to care for its social needs, like education, welfare, old age, and illness.

Free Tools to Help You Live Healthier

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness, an initiative of the North Carolina Council of Churches, is pleased to bring to your attention the following free health tools which are designed to help you and your loved ones make healthier choices

Free Tools to Help You Live Healthier

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness, an initiative of the North Carolina Council of Churches, is pleased to bring to your attention the following free health tools which are designed to help you and your loved ones make healthier choices

NCCC @ SEIRN: Talkin’ Immigration

By chris

Last weekend I had the honor of participating in the annual conference held by the SouthEast Immigrant Rights Network (SEIRN) in Nashville, TN. SEIRN invited me to co-lead a workshop about connecting faith communities with immigration issues, which is a large part of my daily work with the NC Council of Churches. As I said during my session, one of the biggest obstacles to churches becoming more engaged is that conversations about immigration are often understood as conversations that don’t belong in church.

NCCC @ SEIRN: Talkin’ Immigration

by chris

Last weekend I had the honor of participating in the annual conference held by the SouthEast Immigrant Rights Network (SEIRN) in Nashville, TN. SEIRN invited me to co-lead a workshop about connecting faith communities with immigration issues, which is a large part of my daily work with the NC Council of Churches. As I said during my session, one of the biggest obstacles to churches becoming more engaged is that conversations about immigration are often understood as conversations that don’t belong in church.

Religious Leaders and People of Faith Form a Circle of Protection

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our religious leaders and people of faith have come together in a prophetic Circle of Protection, reminding us that “budgets are moral documents, and how we reduce future deficits are historic and defining moral choices.”  Christian leaders urge “Congress and the administration to give moral priority to programs that protect the life and dignity of poor and vulnerable people […]

Religious Leaders and People of Faith Form a Circle of Protection

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our religious leaders and people of faith have come together in a prophetic Circle of Protection, reminding us that “budgets are moral documents, and how we reduce future deficits are historic and defining moral choices.”  Christian leaders urge “Congress and the administration to give moral priority to programs that protect the life and dignity of poor and vulnerable people […]

Raise Your Hand if You Support Child Labor

By chris

As a society, we decided 75 years ago that child labor needed very strict guidelines to make sure that education comes first and to prevent abusive conditions.  The only problem?  Children in agriculture were exempted from these protections, in part because most farms were small family operations that needed everyone’s help.  Today, mass-scale agribusiness has replaced family farms.  But the exemption allowing child labor on farms has remained, meaning that there’s a good chance that pint of blueberries you’re enjoying was hand-picked by 12- and 13-year olds – legally.  These same children are too young to work in any other industry.

Raise Your Hand if You Support Child Labor

by chris

As a society, we decided 75 years ago that child labor needed very strict guidelines to make sure that education comes first and to prevent abusive conditions.  The only problem?  Children in agriculture were exempted from these protections, in part because most farms were small family operations that needed everyone’s help.  Today, mass-scale agribusiness has replaced family farms.  But the exemption allowing child labor on farms has remained, meaning that there’s a good chance that pint of blueberries you’re enjoying was hand-picked by 12- and 13-year olds – legally.  These same children are too young to work in any other industry.

Proper 8, Year A

By chris

The cup of water that Matthew asks us to offer is a dangerous thing. It assumes we have looked at our visitor and noticed his or her thirst. We are willing to be inconvenienced, to go to the well and draw the pure clean water and offer it in hospitality—which might lead us to pulling out a chair and inquiring about the rest of the family.

Proper 8, Year A

by chris

The cup of water that Matthew asks us to offer is a dangerous thing. It assumes we have looked at our visitor and noticed his or her thirst. We are willing to be inconvenienced, to go to the well and draw the pure clean water and offer it in hospitality—which might lead us to pulling out a chair and inquiring about the rest of the family.

Reflections on the Statewide Summit

By Keith Gustine, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

Meeting at the beautiful St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Winston Salem, NC, the North Carolina Council of Churches hosted a summit to help connect people of faith from across the state, who care about the plight of undocumented immigrants. After check-in and a short time of coffee, snacks and socializing, the break out sessions started. […]

Reflections on the Statewide Summit

by Keith Gustine, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

Meeting at the beautiful St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Winston Salem, NC, the North Carolina Council of Churches hosted a summit to help connect people of faith from across the state, who care about the plight of undocumented immigrants. After check-in and a short time of coffee, snacks and socializing, the break out sessions started. […]

Cool Harvest Program Offered at Church of the Nativity

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

In response to the growing awareness among members of faith communities that we have not been good stewards of our land and that we have lost connection with our food sources, North Carolina Interfaith Power & Light has developed the Cool Harvest program. Over four Sundays, beginning June 12, issues of nutrition and sustainability will […]

Cool Harvest Program Offered at Church of the Nativity

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

In response to the growing awareness among members of faith communities that we have not been good stewards of our land and that we have lost connection with our food sources, North Carolina Interfaith Power & Light has developed the Cool Harvest program. Over four Sundays, beginning June 12, issues of nutrition and sustainability will […]

Gardens of Forgiveness film and discussion

By David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

The Reverend Lyndon Harris, Executive Director of Gardens of Forgiveness and the priest in charge of Saint Paul’s Chapel at ground zero will be speaking about his experience during 9/11 and how that led him to create Forgiveness Gardens all over the world.

Gardens of Forgiveness film and discussion

by David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

The Reverend Lyndon Harris, Executive Director of Gardens of Forgiveness and the priest in charge of Saint Paul’s Chapel at ground zero will be speaking about his experience during 9/11 and how that led him to create Forgiveness Gardens all over the world.

3rd National Restorative Justice Conference

By David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

The Third National Conference on Restorative Justice will bring together academics, community leaders, educators, faith leaders, judges, politicians, policy makers, practitioners and concerned community members to explore the use of restorative justice principles and practices.  This conference will have a particular focus on multi-cultural and indigenous communities. Speakers include Nontombi Naomi Tutu, Howard Zehr, John […]

3rd National Restorative Justice Conference

by David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

The Third National Conference on Restorative Justice will bring together academics, community leaders, educators, faith leaders, judges, politicians, policy makers, practitioners and concerned community members to explore the use of restorative justice principles and practices.  This conference will have a particular focus on multi-cultural and indigenous communities. Speakers include Nontombi Naomi Tutu, Howard Zehr, John […]

Important Budget Alert

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Senate’s version of the budget is on the move, and it has been crafted to gain the support of enough House Democrats to overturn a gubernatorial veto. (Senate Republicans already have a veto-proof majority in their house.) For more information, see the “Senate Budget” article below, excerpted from our colleagues at the NC Justice Center, and […]

Important Budget Alert

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Senate’s version of the budget is on the move, and it has been crafted to gain the support of enough House Democrats to overturn a gubernatorial veto. (Senate Republicans already have a veto-proof majority in their house.) For more information, see the “Senate Budget” article below, excerpted from our colleagues at the NC Justice Center, and […]

Proper 6, Year A

By chris

Key Fact: Over 1.5 million North Carolinians ages 0-64 do not have health insurance. That is approximately 1 out of every 5 people in our state. Children account for over 280,000 of the 1.5 million uninsured.

Proper 6, Year A

by chris

Key Fact: Over 1.5 million North Carolinians ages 0-64 do not have health insurance. That is approximately 1 out of every 5 people in our state. Children account for over 280,000 of the 1.5 million uninsured.

Immigration as a “Symptom”

By chris

The questions surrounding immigration policy have sparked an intense debate across the United States, including in North Carolina, where I live and work. Society remains divided on specific policies, but we also remain divided about some of the even bigger questions. For example, what does it mean to be “American”? Are immigrants generally intruders to be feared or new neighbors to be welcomed? And what values should our immigration policies reflect? This debate, in part, is about who “they” are and who “we” are.

Immigration as a “Symptom”

by chris

The questions surrounding immigration policy have sparked an intense debate across the United States, including in North Carolina, where I live and work. Society remains divided on specific policies, but we also remain divided about some of the even bigger questions. For example, what does it mean to be “American”? Are immigrants generally intruders to be feared or new neighbors to be welcomed? And what values should our immigration policies reflect? This debate, in part, is about who “they” are and who “we” are.

Truth to Power

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 a visible presence for those our society often treats as invisible, and did justice as they walked humbly. We are grateful to our colleague, David […]

Truth to Power

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 a visible presence for those our society often treats as invisible, and did justice as they walked humbly. We are grateful to our colleague, David […]

Why I Am in Jail

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 at the NC Legislature, and by late this afternoon I may find myself in jail. [Editor’s note: David was arrested on Tuesday around 4pm.] The […]

Why I Am in Jail

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 at the NC Legislature, and by late this afternoon I may find myself in jail. [Editor’s note: David was arrested on Tuesday around 4pm.] The […]

Moving Backwards and Playing Games

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

At a recent House judiciary committee focused on legislation to do away with the 2009 Racial Justice Act, Seth Edwards, president of the North Carolina Association of District Attorneys, insisted that in NC capital cases, “… prosecutors do not see color.” Really? Then why did a 2010 Michigan State University study on North Carolina murder […]

Moving Backwards and Playing Games

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

At a recent House judiciary committee focused on legislation to do away with the 2009 Racial Justice Act, Seth Edwards, president of the North Carolina Association of District Attorneys, insisted that in NC capital cases, “… prosecutors do not see color.” Really? Then why did a 2010 Michigan State University study on North Carolina murder […]

Raleigh Report – May 20, 2011

By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The focus of this issue is a handful of the most important items currently under consideration at the General Assembly. These are issues that are under challenge by the current majorities in both houses.

Raleigh Report – May 20, 2011

by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The focus of this issue is a handful of the most important items currently under consideration at the General Assembly. These are issues that are under challenge by the current majorities in both houses.

Upcoming Health Events in Wake and Chatham Counties

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

Friends of the Council are encouraged to participate in one or both of the following community events, each of which is designed to help you take better care of your health

Upcoming Health Events in Wake and Chatham Counties

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

Friends of the Council are encouraged to participate in one or both of the following community events, each of which is designed to help you take better care of your health

Speak out on Health Benefits Exchange and Preserving Medicaid

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

HB115 is expected to come before the NC House for a vote on Wed, May 25, 2011. HB115 establishes the Health Benefits Exchange (where individuals and small businesses in need of health insurance can purchase it). Unfortunately, this bill leaves those currently in charge of our broken health care system in charge of this Exchange. A call or email to your […]

Speak out on Health Benefits Exchange and Preserving Medicaid

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

HB115 is expected to come before the NC House for a vote on Wed, May 25, 2011. HB115 establishes the Health Benefits Exchange (where individuals and small businesses in need of health insurance can purchase it). Unfortunately, this bill leaves those currently in charge of our broken health care system in charge of this Exchange. A call or email to your […]

Immigration & Arizona: Making a Problem Worse

By chris

NC Policy Watch

In a hyper-partisan era characterized by failures of leadership across the board, perhaps no single issue illustrates government gridlock better than immigration.  Everyone knows that our current immigration system is broken.  Year after year, proposals to help fix the system have been introduced in Washington, only to die without ever taking effect.  Understandably, many states feel they have been left no choice but to take action themselves.

Immigration & Arizona: Making a Problem Worse

NC Policy Watch

In a hyper-partisan era characterized by failures of leadership across the board, perhaps no single issue illustrates government gridlock better than immigration.  Everyone knows that our current immigration system is broken.  Year after year, proposals to help fix the system have been introduced in Washington, only to die without ever taking effect.  Understandably, many states feel they have been left no choice but to take action themselves.

Legislative Black Caucus Sponsors Clergy Day at the General Assembly

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The office of Rep. Garland Pierce, who is also a Baptist pastor, sent me the following message in italics about an opportunity to come to Raleigh and express your opposition to legislative measures which will make life more difficult for people who are poor: I invite you to join me on Tuesday, May 17th, at […]

Legislative Black Caucus Sponsors Clergy Day at the General Assembly

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The office of Rep. Garland Pierce, who is also a Baptist pastor, sent me the following message in italics about an opportunity to come to Raleigh and express your opposition to legislative measures which will make life more difficult for people who are poor: I invite you to join me on Tuesday, May 17th, at […]

Better Choices, Better Health

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

Our friends at the Living Healthy Chronic Disease Self Management Program (CDSMP) would like to invite members of your congregation to take advantage of their FREE online workshop – Better Choices, Better Health™ – which is designed to help individuals self-manage their chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, chronic pain, anxiety, etc.). Specifically, the workshop can help you and the people you care about

Better Choices, Better Health

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

Our friends at the Living Healthy Chronic Disease Self Management Program (CDSMP) would like to invite members of your congregation to take advantage of their FREE online workshop – Better Choices, Better Health™ – which is designed to help individuals self-manage their chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, chronic pain, anxiety, etc.). Specifically, the workshop can help you and the people you care about

Pentecost, Year A

By chris

It seems to be a prayer that we who love Jesus may be at one with him and with the Father and that, somehow, the world’s believing in him depends on our witness to him in unity. That is to say, if his followers are splintered into many varying and conflicting entities, the witness that could draw people to him is greatly diminished. This is not an accident – this is crucial to Jesus!

Pentecost, Year A

by chris

It seems to be a prayer that we who love Jesus may be at one with him and with the Father and that, somehow, the world’s believing in him depends on our witness to him in unity. That is to say, if his followers are splintered into many varying and conflicting entities, the witness that could draw people to him is greatly diminished. This is not an accident – this is crucial to Jesus!

Building Interfaith Community

By David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

Building community is the most effective (though perhaps least dramatic) way to resist divisive rhetoric that demonizes the 'other.' It is much easier to caricature people we don't know. It is hard not to challenge stereotypes when one's own personal experience and relationships contradict them.

Building Interfaith Community

by David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

Building community is the most effective (though perhaps least dramatic) way to resist divisive rhetoric that demonizes the ‘other.’ It is much easier to caricature people we don’t know. It is hard not to challenge stereotypes when one’s own personal experience and relationships contradict them.

Emergency Call to Action from Rev. William Barber

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Rev. William Barber, president of the NC NAACP, organizer of the HKonJ movement (of which the NC Council of Churches is a partner), and pastor of the Greenleaf Christian Church in Goldsboro, has issued an update and call to action. It gives details about the multi-faceted assault on issues of racial equality and social justice in […]

Emergency Call to Action from Rev. William Barber

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Rev. William Barber, president of the NC NAACP, organizer of the HKonJ movement (of which the NC Council of Churches is a partner), and pastor of the Greenleaf Christian Church in Goldsboro, has issued an update and call to action. It gives details about the multi-faceted assault on issues of racial equality and social justice in […]

Free Webinar on Physical Activity for Churches

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

Our friends at Body & Soul, a faith-based health initiative, are offering a free Webinar to clergy and congregants who are looking for creative ways to be more physically active during church events and services.

Free Webinar on Physical Activity for Churches

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

Our friends at Body & Soul, a faith-based health initiative, are offering a free Webinar to clergy and congregants who are looking for creative ways to be more physically active during church events and services.

Reducing Poverty in Eastern Wake a Complex Battle

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Eastern Wake News

Poverty afflicts thousands in eastern Wake County - not just those without a job or some other source of income, but even those so-called working poor who live from paycheck to paycheck hoping to avoid a single disaster that could turn their worlds upside down. Ever since President Lyndon B. Johnson's Great Society aimed the nation's attention on the plight of the poor in the 1960s, there's been debate about the best way to raise up those who have less than they need to lead a normal life.

Reducing Poverty in Eastern Wake a Complex Battle

Eastern Wake News

Poverty afflicts thousands in eastern Wake County – not just those without a job or some other source of income, but even those so-called working poor who live from paycheck to paycheck hoping to avoid a single disaster that could turn their worlds upside down.
Ever since President Lyndon B. Johnson’s Great Society aimed the nation’s attention on the plight of the poor in the 1960s, there’s been debate about the best way to raise up those who have less than they need to lead a normal life.

Civil Rights Panel Gets an Earful on Wake Schools

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The News & Observer

All the conflict raging about the Wake schools for the past year and a half came spilling out Wednesday night when a panel of federal civil rights investigators heard testimony - often heated - in an East Raleigh church. The hearing concerned a complaint against Wake Public Schools, filed with the federal education department by the state NAACP. An estimated 200 people nearly filled the fellowship hall at Martin Street Baptist Church, with speakers making emphatic points on both sides of the issues.

Civil Rights Panel Gets an Earful on Wake Schools

The News & Observer

All the conflict raging about the Wake schools for the past year and a half came spilling out Wednesday night when a panel of federal civil rights investigators heard testimony – often heated – in an East Raleigh church.

The hearing concerned a complaint against Wake Public Schools, filed with the federal education department by the state NAACP. An estimated 200 people nearly filled the fellowship hall at Martin Street Baptist Church, with speakers making emphatic points on both sides of the issues.

Wild Goose Tix & Volunteering

By David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

June 23, the first day of the Wild Goose Festival, is 50 days away, and excitement is definitely building. Tickets are on sale and volunteers are needed. Read on for more information...

Wild Goose Tix & Volunteering

by David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

June 23, the first day of the Wild Goose Festival, is 50 days away, and excitement is definitely building. Tickets are on sale and volunteers are needed. Read on for more information…

Ascension of the Lord, Year A

By chris

As I look from my living room window at the aftermath of Hurricane Floyd, I am compelled to rush to my car radio to listen to the news for further updates, if any are currently on! Tidbits of information from the streets come my way and it is shocking what I hear. Roads are flooded cutting off routes of escape from the city west toward Raleigh, east toward Kenly, and some say you can't get through Rocky Mount.

Ascension of the Lord, Year A

by chris

As I look from my living room window at the aftermath of Hurricane Floyd, I am compelled to rush to my car radio to listen to the news for further updates, if any are currently on! Tidbits of information from the streets come my way and it is shocking what I hear. Roads are flooded cutting off routes of escape from the city west toward Raleigh, east toward Kenly, and some say you can’t get through Rocky Mount.

Resources for Conversations on GLBT Issues

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Several of the Council's member denominations have resources available to help faith communities have productive conversations about issues related to gays and lesbians. Many more are out there, but this list offers a place to start.

Resources for Conversations on GLBT Issues

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Several of the Council’s member denominations have resources available to help faith communities have productive conversations about issues related to gays and lesbians. Many more are out there, but this list offers a place to start.

Raleigh Report – April 26, 2011

By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

State Deadline Passes and Most New Bills Introduced

Raleigh Report – April 26, 2011

by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

State Deadline Passes and Most New Bills Introduced

Join Our Circle of Support

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The work of the North Carolina Council of Churches goes on year-round, and we appreciate every donation that supports it. We would welcome those who value the Council’s work to consider making an ongoing donation that would provide us with the most reliable stream of income possible. Several of our supporters already do so, including […]

Join Our Circle of Support

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The work of the North Carolina Council of Churches goes on year-round, and we appreciate every donation that supports it. We would welcome those who value the Council’s work to consider making an ongoing donation that would provide us with the most reliable stream of income possible. Several of our supporters already do so, including […]

Smith Honored by Council of Churches

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Washington Daily News

The Rev. Charles Smith, a longtime member of the North Carolina Council of Churches, received its 2011 Distinguished Service Award earlier this month at Duke University. George Reed, the council’s executive director, said the honor recognizes Smith’s commitment to the council’s twin goals of social justice and ecumenism. The council represents 18 Christian denominations.

Smith Honored by Council of Churches

Washington Daily News

The Rev. Charles Smith, a longtime member of the North Carolina Council of Churches, received its 2011 Distinguished Service Award earlier this month at Duke University.

George Reed, the council’s executive director, said the honor recognizes Smith’s commitment to the council’s twin goals of social justice and ecumenism. The council represents 18 Christian denominations.

Joyful Blessings in this Easter Season!

By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

Thou art giving and forgiving, ever blessing, ever blest, well-spring of the joy of living, ocean depth of happy rest! Our Creator, Christ our brother, all who live in love are thine; teach us how to love each other, lift us to the joy divine. Mortals, join the mighty chorus which the morning stars began; love […]

Joyful Blessings in this Easter Season!

by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

Thou art giving and forgiving, ever blessing, ever blest, well-spring of the joy of living, ocean depth of happy rest! Our Creator, Christ our brother, all who live in love are thine; teach us how to love each other, lift us to the joy divine. Mortals, join the mighty chorus which the morning stars began; love […]